Automotive

2020 Ford Transit Changes

The latest models from Ford Transit will soon introduce in by Ford. 2020 Ford Transit will have two variants namely AWD and Connect. There will be big changes that will be presented by Ford for this car. And the redesign of this car has many waiting for many people. More than 8 million units have been sold since its first launch in 1965. This Van was already very well known in his home country.

2020 Ford Transit Interior and Exterior

A large grille will give some gains for this new Ford Transit. It looks sturdy and can provide substantial air to awesome down the engine. The Ford Transit front headlights also obtain a new design and style despite the fact that we cannot say that it is the classy layout. It can utilize the LED lights to give a superb illumination and vision towards the Transit driver. The Ford emblem still can be observed in the front center.

Ford will try to reduce your body bodyweight of the new generation Ford Transit. Ford Transit new light-weight and powerful materials will be used for the physique. It will give some rewards to the engine for your acceleration and fuel consumption. At the back, the 2020 Ford Transit also get some enhancements. The taillights and also the muffler will obtain a new style and design.

We should agree that Ford does anything good to enhance the interior design and style for the 2020 Transit. The spy shots demonstrate the dashboard with the upcoming Transit is going to be modern-day and packed with capabilities. The steering wheel will get soft leather coating and adjustable. We can uncover some new panels on the dashboard. The touchscreen display on the new Transit’s panel is often utilized since the navigation and enjoyment media.

2020 Ford Transit Engine

Underneath the hood could possibly be a fully distinctive story. 2020 Ford Transit includes a 3.7 liter and V6 engine producing 270 horsepower. the exact same as identified on the Ford Explorer SUV. An AWD and Connect 3.5 Liter EcoBoost and V6 engine can be swapped in to get a premium and both are mated to a 6-speed automated.

2020 Ford Transit Release Date and Price

2020 Ford Transit will be released early in the year 2020, and for clarity of further information, we recommend that you can wait for information directly from Ford. And for the price of Ford Transit will have a price of around $31,000. For AWD variants and Connect there will be little change in the price.

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AutoSens Conference Plays Vital Role In The Success of Autonomous Driving

AutoSens Conference Plays Vital Role In The Success of Autonomous Driving Autonomous driving is the most expansive topic in the automotive industry. At one time, such concepts were science fiction, now they are just science. And the industry is working around the clock to validate, refine, and ultimately mass produce that science. There is an old saying: “what a time to be alive.” Self-driving cars? What a time to be alive.
Think about it for a moment. All the cars we see on the road today; all of them driving themselves. Society will forever change as we know it.
Creating Dialogue
With significant cultural changes come a multitude of challenges and triumphs, autonomous driving being no exception. Hence why collaboration is necessary as the discussions concerning autonomous driving are great. Pick any single aspect about about it: technology, engineering, legalities, morals and ethics; or the idea we stand to lose our relationship with the automobile. These conversations are nearly endless, and each topic poses as many questions as answers.
It is for this reason AutoSens is needed if autonomous driving is going to work. Fresh off a successful Detroit conference in May, AutoSens, a global summit on automated driving, is returning to Brussels, Belgium next week. The agenda includes over 60 different sessions meant to facilitate meaningful dialogue on the topic of autonomous cars.
“The challenge of the automotive industry is to design computers and robots that can perform tasks better than humans can, while also causing minimal disruption to a system that will include human driven vehicles for many decades to come,” said AutoSens founder Robert Stead. “It’s no easy task.”
Photo: Continental Corporation.
Community & Collaboration
AutoSens examines every aspect of autonomous driving, from the supply chain and infrastructure concerns, to the legal, financial, and ethical considerations. Attendees, speakers, sponsors, and participants leverage each other’s expertise during the event, which takes aim at the biggest challenges facing autonomous cars. Collaboration and creativity are the central themes, whereby professionals in the field share ideas and devise solutions to the obstacles facing autonomous driving.
“I would say the biggest challenge for people is trying to understand the different technologies,” explained Phil Magney, Founder and Principal Advisor, VSI Labs, during AutoSens Detroit in May. “This conference has been good for us because we meet like-minded people that are facing similar challenges; we talk, we exchange our views, and we learn from each other.”
“It’s a great community and we are very happy to be part of this ecosystem; it’s an excellent event,” added Paul Fleck, Founder of Dataspeed. “I’m looking forward to AutoSens Brussels and then coming back to Detroit again next year.”
Dataspeed Founder Paul Fleck (black shirt, jacket, middle) talks with AutoSens Detroit attendees in May. Dataspeed showcased the company’s ADAS Kit which helps engineers maximize their development of autonomous systems in the field. Fleck, an engineer himself, lost a loved one in an auto accident. The experience led him to develop technology he believes will save lives. Photo: Alex Hartman for Sense Media.
For Engineers, By Engineers
The technical integrity of the conference is of the upmost importance. This way, attendees have a true representation of what is happening in the market. There are no sales pitches or slides; “for engineers, by engineers” is the approach organizers take. Every aspect of the conference lives by this motto, from the autonomous vehicle demonstrations to the panel of speakers.
“AutoSens brings together engineering minds in a way incomparable with other events this this sector,” Stead said. “A real sense of community is what makes it tick. You’ll find the attendees, even if they are doing research on a niche technical area, will be very open to explain what it’s all about to those who are not so experienced.”
Expert Speakers
AutoSens Brussels 2018 includes keynotes from Professor Christoph Stiller, KIT, on Solutions and Open Challenges in Vehicular Perception, Professor Michael Watts, MIT, with a review of the latest research in photonics-sensor technologies as they relate to the automotive sector, and Jack Weast, Intel, on sharing an Open, Transparent, Industry-Driven Approach to AV Safety.
Expert speakers include representatives from BMW Group, Intel, Hailo, Lyft, NXP Semiconductors, Waymo, University of Surrey, Siemens, Renesas, Smart Eye, The University of Warwick, ABI Research, VSI Labs, and Arbe Robotics. Session leaders have expertise in robotics, computer vision, automotive electronics, digital imaging, and functional safety among others.
“The difference between AutoSens and many other events on this hot topic of self-driving cars is that the AutoSens attendees are the actual engineers who are building the systems that will make it all possible,” Stead explained. “They know first-hand what technologies work well, what the bottlenecks are, and what the future capabilities will be.”
Attendees sit in during one of the many technical presentations that took place at AutoSens Detroit in May. The conference will return to the Michigan Science Center beginning on May 13th 2019. Photo: Alex Hartman for Sense Media.
Tickets & Location
AutoSens Brussels 2018 takes place inside the city’s famous AutoWorld Museum, September 17th through the 20th. Tickets, including discount packages for females in the engineering community, are available now. The event’s full agenda and speaker lineup can be found here. The AutoSens Awards, also held in Brussels, are set for the evening of September 19th.
“It’s a community and what AutoSens does is bring that community together twice a year; once in Detroit in May and again in September in Brussels,” Stead said. “We see a lot of the same faces coming back – it’s kind of like seeing the family twice a year – but it is growing and there are new people coming too.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.

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2018 Lexus GX 460 Luxury Review: Lots of Space, Off-Road Capability

2018 Lexus GX 460 Luxury Review: Lots of Space, Off-Road Capability Even though many SUV owners don’t take their vehicles off-road, the Lexus GX 460 is highly capable if you ever need to get off the pavement. It would be ideal for a family who lives outside the city, perhaps near the mountains, or just generally needs to travel unpaved roads to get home. That’s because the GX shares a similar platform with the capable off-road Toyota 4Runner.
The GX is a large luxury SUV that can handle rugged terrain, and is good for towing a camper or other recreational vehicles. This week, we’ve been driving the 2018 Lexus GX 460 Luxury, the SUV’s top trim level.
What’s New For 2018
There are only a few minor changes in available features.
Features & Options
The 2018 Lexus GX 460 Luxury ($63,230) comes standard with 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, running boards, a flip-up rear window within the swing-out tailgate, roof rails, Lexus’ Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, a sunroof, rearview camera, and keyless ignition and entry.
Inside, the GX 460 comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, simulated leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, driver-seat memory settings, a power-adjustable steering column, and a 50/50-split folding third-row seat. Infotainment features include Lexus Enform emergency and remote vehicle services, an eight-inch touchscreen, two USB ports, and Bluetooth capability. The nine-speaker sound system includes a CD player and satellite and HD radio.
The GX 460 Luxury comes with all of the above as standard, plus an adaptive and auto-leveling suspension, power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors, headlight washers, and a heated, wood-trimmed steering wheel. The rear cargo cover, second-row captain’s chairs, and upgraded leather upholstery make for nice additional touches.
This GX 460 tester came with the optional two-screen rear seat entertainment system ($1,970) and a Driver Support package ($4,340). This adds adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and automatic braking, front- and side-view cameras, and a driver inattention monitoring system. The package also includes lane departure warning, automatic high beams, crawl control (an off-road, low-speed cruise control system), and the Mark Levinson sound system.
The Sport Design Package ($1,950) adds 18-inch dark alloy wheels, heated second row seats, and special styling elements. Total MSRP of our test GX 460, options and all, including destination: $72,485.

Interior Highlights
The 2018 Lexus GX 460 Luxury is ideal for active families because of how big the inside is. This luxury SUV seats up to seven and comes with three rows. The front is especially spacious. The seats up there are 10-way power adjustable, plus heated and cooled for extra comfort. It’s easy to find the perfect driving position for any family member with the tilt/telescoping steering wheel.
The second-row is reasonably roomy and versatile and features heated seats that also recline. The seats offer a power feature and will fold down flat for extra cargo space. The third row can be accessed from the passenger side where the second-row seat moves forward to allow walk-in access. The third row also folds flat at the push of a button, converting the GX 460 to a five-passenger SUV with more cargo room.
The interior is cavernous. We were able to carry a 10-foot piece of wood trim home for a remodeling project.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The GX 460 is powered by a 4.6-liter V8 producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft. of torque. It’s mated with a six-speed transmission and four-wheel drive is standard.
Fuel economy ratings come in at 15/18 city/highway and 16 combined mpg. According to the EPA ratings, the GX 460 falls mostly in line with the competition, although it lags in total cruising range.
Driving Dynamics
The Lexus GX 460 likes to cruise on level highways and was smooth and unstressed on the commute to work. As we returned home heading up I-70 into the mountains, the 301 horsepower V8 had to work harder to get us up the hill. The GX 460 weighs 5,340 lbs. empty. That said, if you have a full load, or are pulling a trailer, it may struggle to handle the weight.
But for those who live on flat ground, this SUV will handle most driving situations with ease.
With a body-on-frame construction and low range gearing, it’s far more rugged and powerful than the Lexus RX crossover. Unlike the RX, the GX offers excellent off-road capability and comes equipped with features to make off-road driving safe and easy. It’s very comfortable in town, but has a great setup for getting you into the back country.
For example, The GX comes standard with a full-time 4WD system, which includes a locking center differential and low-range gearing. The system requires little to no input from the driver. It’s ideal for safe travel during heavy rains, on snowy and icy roads, or on rough dirt or gravel surfaces. Despite this off-road design, the suspension still eats up bumps and potholes without jarring you or the passengers.
Conclusion
With its truck-like platform, the 2018 Lexus GX 460 offers excellent control over rugged terrain. It will keep you confident in bad weather. It’s a traditional SUV, built on the same truck-based architecture as the rugged Toyota 4Runner, with a suspension and drive system designed for the rough stuff.
Inside it’s big and luxurious and on the road it’s comfortable and quiet. The 4.6-liter V8 is good enough but it could use more low-end torque for pulling up the hills.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Lexus GX 460 Gallery

Lexus GX Official Site.
Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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Lexus Releases UX Photo Ahead of Geneva Motor Show

Lexus Releases UX Photo Ahead of Geneva Motor Show Ahead of its debut at the Geneva International Motor Show, Lexus has released the above photo of the UX compact crossover. The UX, which is an entirely new platform, will be the fifth member of the brand’s portfolio of luxury utility vehicles. Lexus says the UX is bold and stylish with “expressive” bodywork and “muscular” haunches. Lexus is also promising exceptional torsional rigidity and a low center of gravity to enhance the overall driving dynamics.
Lexus will also showcase the LF-1 Limitless Concept in Geneva, first revealed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan in January. The flagship concept, as Lexus describes it, will make its official European debut.
RX L Premiere

Lexus will also host the European premiere of the RX L, a new version of the RX crossover with three rows of seats to accommodate seven passengers. Lexus says the seating arrangements are flexible and the load-carrying ability is “excellent.” The RX L’s interior has increased due to the extension of the overall vehicle by 4.3 inches, although Lexus says they wanted to maintain a coupe-like profile.

In Person
Other Lexus highlights at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show include the Special Edition RC F coupe. The car, created to celebrate 10 years of F-branded vehicles, will be on display. The Lexus Press Conference with the new Head of Lexus Europe, Pascal Ruch, will take place on March 6th at 10am at the Lexus stand in hall 4. The event will be streamed live as well. The Geneva International Motor Show begins on March 6th and runs until the 18th.
Photo & Source: Lexus.

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2018 Hyundai Elantra GT: Sport Hatchback Manual Review

2018 Hyundai Elantra GT: Sport Hatchback Manual Review
With the Winter Olympics held in South Korea, we’ve seen how much progress they’ve made in the world of sports. They’ve also made huge leaps in the automotive field. The Hyundai Elantra is a serious competitor among compacts, with a sporty design, roomy cabin, and abundant features. Following a 2017 revamp of the Elantra lineup, the compact car gets a sporty new hatchback model. The new Elantra hatch offers greater cabin space, more premium-looking finishes, and the GT Sport’s suspension offers improved driving dynamics.
This weekend, we drove the 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT Sport Hatchback with a manual gearbox.
What’s New For 2018
Hyundai introduced the Elantra GT Sport Hatchback for the 2018 model year. A new SEL trim level takes the place of the previous SE with a Popular Equipment Package.
Standard Features
The 2018 Elantra GT Hatchback ($23,250) comes standard with LED headlights, an electronic parking brake, upgraded gauges, leather upholstery, an eight-inch display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rearview camera. It also features 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, and Bluetooth. Blind-spot detection is also standard. Elantra GT includes a sunroof and heated front seats, along with a multi-link rear suspension and bigger brakes. Total MSRP including destination: $24,260.

Interior Highlights
Stepping inside, Elantra GT feels bigger than a compact car should with interior dimensions approaching that of a mid-size vehicle. The fit and finish is better in the GT trim, and it gets heated leather seats for extra comfort. Little things like a push-button start and the larger, eight-inch display make a difference in giving it a more upscale feel.
The leather-trimmed front seats in the GT are comfortable, with better bolstering on the cushions. This Sport model features deeper bucket seats that kept us planted during more spirited driving this weekend. Most controls and the touchscreen angle toward the driver for easier use when on the road.
There’s plenty of legroom in the back of this compact hatch, but of course, seats aren’t as comfortable as up front. Passengers will ride a bit lower for extra headroom, but you might feel too closed in for those long-distance jaunts. Rear legroom is an inch tighter in a GT Hatchback versus the Elantra sedan. Cargo space in the Hatchback has grown to 24.9 cubic feet, expanding to 55.4 cubic feet with the 60/40 seatbacks folded flat.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT Sport Hatchback is powered by a peppy, 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder, producing 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft. of torque. It comes mated to a sweet 6-speed manual gearbox. Hatchbacks with the six-speed manual are EPA-rated at 22/29 city/highway and 25 combined mpg.
Driving Dynamics
You wouldn’t think 201 horsepower would get any driving enthusiast excited, but the Elantra GT offers up an experience that’s high on the fun-to-drive meter. When the turbo kicked in, even at altitude, we were able to power up the mountain roads west of Denver with little concern for wanting more “oomph.”
On the open road, the Elantra Hatchback felt composed, relatively quiet, solid, and refined for a compact car priced under $25,000. Only on seriously rough surfaces does the suspension reveal its limitations. But for the curves, the GT Sport gets a multi-link independent rear suspension, providing greater body-motion control for the tight mountain corners. With its light, yet precise steering, the GT Hatchback kept us firmly planted on the pavement.
Driving enthusiasts will want the six-speed manual. It fits well with the 1.6-liter turbo powerplant and is most enjoyable to drive. As an alternative to the manual shifter, the turbo can mate with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. With the automatic transmission, the Elantra GT Sport Hatchback would be a good commuter for urban dwellers.
Conclusion
The 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT Sport Hatchback delivers a good value for a sporty compact. The cabin features more luxury than the lower trims, greater utility, and an enjoyable driving experience overall. Hyundai’s impressive warranty makes it even more competitive in this segment too.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Hyundai Elantra GT Sport Gallery

2018 Hyundai Elantra GT Official Site.
Photos: Hyundai Motor America.

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Inside The 2019 BMW X4

Inside The 2019 BMW X4 The second generation of BMW’s X4 SUV/crossover/coupe has just hit the virtual streets. The X4 is one of those fast-backed, coupe-like SUV crossovers that most Americans don’t fully embrace, but Europeans really seem to love. Although that form factor is obviously going to compromise cargo capacity, it does look much better than the traditional “two-box” truck design.
Style Points
Look, I, like any other self-respecting gearhead love the fastback design, shoot even the name is totally boss. When it comes to applying the fastback design to trucks, well, that’s when things get kind of iffy. On the one hand, it takes away from the practicality aspect. On the other, we’re not talking real trucks here, and we’re not even talking real off-road oriented SUVs. So what’s the big deal if you give up a little interior volume for looking chic und moderne and everso continental?
The thumbnail sketch of the 2019 X4 – which BMW wincingly refers to as the “eye-catching athlete” – is how it’s chocked full of tech gizmos and performance goodies. It will be available as either the X4 M40i or xDrive30i. The track is wider so the center of gravity is much lower and, with its “latest generation suspension,” BMW says it’s fun to drive. There’s the standard “Navigation Professional” with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, an iDrive Touch Controller, and real-time traffic and parking information. There’s a multi-color heads-up display which is 75 percent larger for 2019.
Power & Performance
All this stylish, high-tech slathered goodness is powered down der Bahn by a rather nice set of drivetrain options. Hey, you do know that “M” in BMW stands for “Motor” right? The “normal” option is the Bavarian’s four-cylinder engine found in the X4 xDrive30i. It’s good for 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque. 60 mph comes up in 6 seconds, which is pretty quick, when you realize this thing weighs about 2.8 Lotuses. The 4-banger uses BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology, High Precision Injection, Double-VANOS variable camshaft control, and the VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing system.
If you take it up a notch (and we here at Automoblog generally recommend taking it up a notch), the BMW M Performance model comes with an inline six-cylinder engine. That plant cranks out 355 horsepower and 365 lb-ft. of torque, with 60 mph coming up in 4.6 seconds. In short, go with this model.
The 2019 BMW X4 xDrive M40d. Aerodynamic drag has been reduced about 10 percent through the exterior design and by including features like active flap control and underbody cladding. Overall, the vehicle has a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.30. Photo: Fabian Kirchbauer Photography for BMW of North America, LLC.
Transmission Tech
Power hits the road through an eight-speed Steptronic transmission with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive standard. If you’d like, gear selections can be done manually using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. Also standard is a Launch Control function. Why? Why would you need something like that on a (potentially) off-road going vehicle? Spaß! Lots and lots of Spaß! If you desire less Spaß, the standard-fit Driving Experience Control switch lets you choose from Sport, Comfort, and Eco Pro modes. If you buy either the M40i or the xDrive30i, a Sport+ mode is added.
Safety & Security
Also standard is Active Guard with Frontal Collision Warning and Automatic City Collision Mitigation and Braking. Active Guard also includes Daytime Pedestrian Detection and Speed Limit Information. Not sure what happens to peds at night, but let’s not ask, shall we? Active Protection is standard, which is a collection of pre and post-crash safety systems that identify and act before, during, and after an incident.
The 2019 X4 has a near 50:50 weight balance. Photo: Fabian Kirchbauer Photography for BMW of North America, LLC.
Pretty & Functional
And even though it is relatively fast and sporty looking, the 2019 BMW X4 is actually functional as an SUV/crossover. There are heated and electrically-adjustable seats, active seat ventilation, and three-zone automatic climate control with separately adjustable temperature controls in the rear (so you can get the passengers to shut up). The standard panoramic moonroof has much larger dimensions than the previous model too.
There are three full-size seats fitted in the rear compartment and the trunk has a capacity of 18.5 cubic feet which can be expanded to a max of 50.5 cubic feet by folding down the rear backrests with the standard 40:20:40 split. For “added ease” (cough, fat Americans, cough) the backrest sections can be released remotely from the trunk. There are additional compartments, USB ports, and 12V sockets, as well as functional hooks and rails in the trunk.
The 2019 BMW X4 will be available in July with prices starting at $50,450 for the 30i and $60,450 for the M40i, which, I’ve got to say, is reasonable.
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. Follow is work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
2019 BMW X4 Gallery

Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.

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2019 Cadillac XT4: Baby Escalade? Or Something Else Entirely?

2019 Cadillac XT4: Baby Escalade? Or Something Else Entirely? The 2019 Cadillac XT4 has strong competition but will enter the market with promising technology.
There are only two SUVs in Cadillac’s lineup. The full-size Escalade is still the default choice for rap artists, movie stars, or large families. The midsize XT5 is just right for the daily commute. But if you were hankering for a more affordable compact SUV with Cadillac-levels of luxury, the XT4 is the answer. Depending on your perception, the 2019 Cadillac XT4 is either a scaled-down version of the XT5 or a baby Escalade.
“The new Cadillac XT4 brings a new vitality to Cadillac in one of the industry’s fastest-growing segments,” said Steve Carlisle, Cadillac President. “It pairs the agility of our award-winning sports sedans with a youthful SUV character.”
The 2019 XT4 is Cadillac’s first-ever foray in the compact SUV segment, going head-to-head with premium contenders such as the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Lexus NX, and Audi Q5. But unlike the aforementioned competitors, the 2019 Cadillac XT4 starts at a lower base price.
2019 Cadillac XT4. Photo: Cadillac.
Motivated By Technology
Everything about the new XT4 centers around technology. For example, it has a 2.0-liter turbocharged motor that produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque. The twin-scroll turbocharger significantly enhances low-end torque.
“The advantage of turbocharging is power when you need it and efficiency when you don’t,” said Kris Keary, 2.0L Turbo Assistant Chief Engineer. “In the XT4, it translates as confident performance in all scenarios.”
Despite the aggressive engine tuning, the XT4 delivers 24/31 city/highway mpg. This partly due to the smart design of the motor. Cadillac designed a unique and innovative double-overhead tri-power valvetrain with three operating modes: high valve lift, low valve lift, and active fuel management.
In high valve lift, the engine works with the turbocharger to deliver maximum thrills. The low valve mode is the default setting in normal driving. It provides a nice balance between power and fuel economy. Active fuel management can disable two of the four cylinders when idling in traffic for greater efficiency.
“The unique valvetrain design complements the turbocharging system to make the most of the engine’s available power at all speeds,” Keary continued. “It’s a seamless integration of technologies that drivers experience as satisfying, confident performance throughout the entire engine operating range.”
The high-tech engine is bolted to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The motor also benefits from active thermal management, an electric water pump, and stop/start technology.
Photo: Cadillac.
Brand New Architecture
The 2019 Cadillac XT4’s chassis is constructed from press-hardened high-strength steel. The MacPherson strut front and five-link rear independent suspension are tuned for better handling and comfort. The XT4 Sport trim can be equipped with Cadillac’s Active Sport Suspension system. It offers continuous damping control by seamlessly adjusting the damping forces every two milliseconds.
The refined and solid feel of the new XT4 is further enhanced by a vibration absorber tucked between the airbag and steering wheel. It can filter out unnecessary vibrations without negatively affecting the steering, according to Cadillac.
The 2019 Cadillac XT4 has an optional twin-clutch all-wheel drive system, controlled via the Driver Mode Select System. The system balances the amount of torque at each wheel for greater traction and control when the weather gets dicey. By contrast, it automatically decouples the rear axle in normal driving conditions.
Roomy & Spacious Interior
If you need a simple reason why you should choose the Cadillac XT4, it would be the interior, particularly in the rear quarters. The new XT4 is strictly a five-seater, but it serves up best-in-class rear-seat legroom and headroom, according to Cadillac. The 22.5 cubic-feet of cargo space makes it practical. Fold the rear seats down and you get 48.9 cubic-feet of space, more than what the Lexus NX has to offer.

More Features For The Money
The 2019 Cadillac XT4 in base trim starts at $35,790. This includes LED headlamps and taillights, power front seats, 18-inch wheels, remote start, a seven-speaker audio system, and dual zone climate control. You also get an eight-inch high-resolution center display with voice and rotary controls. The interior comes with with four USB ports and wireless charging for compatible smartphones.
On the safety front, the XT4 comes with eight airbags, 10-years of Cadillac Connected Access, rearview camera, brake assist, traction and stability control, and tire pressure monitoring.
Higher trim models get larger alloys, leather upholstery, lane change alert with lane departure warning, front and rear park assist, and an HD surround camera.
The 2019 Cadillac XT4 will arrive at dealerships this fall.
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.
Photos & Source: Cadillac.

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2019 Acura ILX: A Budget-Friendly & Sporty Luxury Sedan

2019 Acura ILX: A Budget-Friendly & Sporty Luxury Sedan The 2019 Acura ILX stands out when compared to prior model years.
Although the engine could use a bit more power, the tech and safety features are solid.
Out with the old, in with the new. The refreshed 2019 Acura ILX is more than a posh Civic. It is a budget-oriented choice in the niche of small, premium sedans. I’ve noticed two types of buyers during my many years writing about cars: those that truly know their stuff and those who simply want a nice car.
If you belong to the latter, take a second look at the 2019 Acura ILX. It may not steal the spotlight from the Mercedes-Benz CLA or Audi A3, but it deserves a rightful place at the podium.
The Acura will be more reliable and less expensive to maintain. For example, the new ILX earned a Power Circle Rating of 5 out of 5 and a quality award in the Small Premium Car segment in J.D. Power and Associates 2018 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS). It also captured the top spot in Kelly Blue Book’s 5-Year Cost to Own Luxury Brand Awards.
Best of all, the 2019 Acura ILX comes standard with active safety technology courtesy of AcuraWatch.
Enhanced Styling
Those who think the previous ILX was a bit dull in the styling department will have a change of heart. The most prominent enhancements are found in front. The 2019 Acura ILX is all-new from nose to A-pillars, anchored by the brand’s signature Diamond Pentagon Grille. Combined with the new jewel-eye LED headlamps and sculpted hood, there’s no doubt the Acura ILX is ready for some serious action.
The rear still bears a striking resemblance to the deck of the Mercedes CLS. There are new LED taillights to match the hi-tech look in the front. There’s a new rear diffuser and chrome exhaust tip. Also new are the sharp-looking 17-inch five-spoke wheels. The 2019 ILX A-Spec gets bigger 18-inch rollers and lower-profile rubber.
2019 Acura ILX A-Spec. Photo: Acura.
Sporty & Luxurious Interior
The interior of the 2019 Acura ILX is equally impressive. You get restyled and reshaped sport seating in the front and rear. The seats can be specified with high-contrast stitching and piping for an enhanced and premium look. All ILX models receive a power-adjustable lumbar support for the front seats.
One of the major gripes was the slow and unresponsive touchscreen interface. Thankfully, Acura heard all the complaints and came up with the dual-screen On-Demand Multi-Use Display system. The new software not only improves system response time by 30 percent, but the seven-inch touchscreen display now offers intuitive menus for a quick and fuss-free operation.
Apple CarPlay and Android auto are standard as well.
2019 Acura ILX interior layout. Photo: Acura.
Refined Performance
All 2019 Acura ILX models still get the 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC four-banger that churns out 201 horsepower and 170 lb-ft. of torque. The motor is connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic driving the front wheels. While the engine is smooth at low revs and growls noticeably at higher rpm, it wouldn’t hurt if Acura massaged the engine to produce a bit more power.
It can still scoot to 60 mph in less than seven seconds, which is average for this class.
A stronger engine is (and would have been) the perfect addition to the new Acura ILX A-Spec. Unfortunately, the A-spec only receives exterior and interior updates. This includes dark chrome trim for the front grille and lower fascia, smoked LED headlights and taillights, a gloss black decklid spoiler, and new LED fog lights. The new ILX A-Spec also receives graphite-silver and chrome dash accents, aluminum pedals, and new red or ebony leather seats.
The 2019 Acura ILX will arrive at dealers next month.
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.
2019 Acura ILX Gallery

Photos & Source: Acura.

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2018 Ford Expedition Platinum 4×4 Review

2018 Ford Expedition Platinum 4×4 Review If you need something more rugged than a typical three-row crossover, the 2018 Ford Expedition is a must-look for families. Needing to haul the kids, their friends, and maybe a few “toys” for that weekend trip away from civilization? It seats up to eight passengers, has a powerful, newly-redesigned turbocharged V6, and can tow more than 9,000 lbs.
And in its Platinum trim, you will travel in style to business meetings, golf outings, and those evenings out at the dinner theater. This week, we’ve been getting a taste of the top-of-the-line, 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum.
What’s New For 2018
The Ford Expedition gets new upgrades, including increased horsepower and torque, a new 10-speed automatic transmission, a redesigned instrument panel, and a handful of new, stand-alone options and packages. The extended-length Expedition is now called the “Max.”
Features & Options
The 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum 4×4 ($73,030) comes with 20-inch wheels, front parking sensors, roof rack rails, retractable running boards, heated second-row seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a premium Bang & Olufsen 12-speaker audio system with HD radio.
It also comes with second-row leather captain’s chairs (reduces seating capacity to seven) and a rear-seat entertainment system with dual headrest-mounted displays. This tester also came with the heavy-duty tow package, the self-parking system, and auto LED headlights and fog lights. Ford did not list exact pricing on the options as this was a pre-production model.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Interior Highlights
Behind the wheel, the driver has a commanding view of the road because of the ride height and seating position. We were able to find the prefect driving position with the power/tilt telescoping steering wheel and adjustable pedals with memory. The seats are plush and there’s plenty of head, shoulder, and hip room for taller passengers.
Families will find acres of room inside for spreading out on longer trips. Kids won’t be asking, “are we there yet?” with the rear-seat entertainment system. The optional second row captain’s chairs are comfy, and there’s lots of legroom with the chair’s ability to slide forward and back. Even the third row, which is usually only good for kids in most SUVs, is decent enough to seat two adults for long distances.
Expedition offers exceptional space for families needing to carry extra cargo. There’s 104.6 cubic feet behind the first row, 63.6 cubic feet behind the second row, and 20.9 cubic feet behind the third row.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Platinum Expedition is powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. The engine’s 400 horsepower and massive 480 lb-ft. of torque marks an increase in power. It comes mated to a new 10-speed automatic with a tow/haul mode sending power to all four wheels. An FX4 off-road trim is available which includes additional skid plates and Ford’s Terrain Management System.
Fuel economy estimates for our Platinum tester came in at 17/22 city/highway and 19 combined mpg using regular unleaded fuel.
Driving Dynamics
The Expedition gets a unique drive shifter knob that saves space. You just dial up “drive” and you’re ready to go. Once underway, the first thing we noticed was the Expedition’s more powerful turbocharged EcoBoost engine with its massive 480 lb-ft. of torque for the Platinum trim. One of the downsides: you need to run premium unleaded fuel to get those torque ratings.
This big SUV has impressive acceleration and we had a hard time keeping our foot out of the gas. It’s one of the quickest SUVs in the class. We took the Expedition up I-70 at altitude west of Denver. Let’s just say, this family hauler feels like a much smaller vehicle. Passing slower traffic was not an issue; we had to watch our speed because it rises up easily.
We did notice the considerable body lean in the tight mountain corners, so this big three-row is likely best when it’s on the open highway. The new Expedition does come with an auto start/stop feature. That takes getting used to in city traffic.
The Ford Expedition’s strong point is how it’s a truck-based SUV, meaning it can take some abuse. You can run the Expedition on muddy or dirt roads, or through snow and not have to worry about getting stuck. It can tow more than 9,000 lbs. when equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package too.
Conclusion
If you need a tough-as-nails, seven- or eight-passenger SUV, with towing capacity for a large trailer, and a lot of room for the kids and pets, the 2018 Ford Expedition is a great choice. For extra luxury, move up to the Platinum model. Overall, the 2018 Ford Expedition is ideal for families with active lifestyles who need more than a typical kid and grocery hauler.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Ford Expedition Gallery

2018 Ford Expedition Official Site.
Photos: Ford Motor Company.

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