The all-new 2019 Genesis G70 is the BMW 3-Series' latest worry

The all-new 2019 Genesis G70 is the BMW 3-Series' latest worry The latest from Hyundai’s newly established luxury brand is here to make the Germans quiver in their shoes.

What’s going on?
Amid a massive concert featuring some of America’s greatest pop stars in South Korea, Hyundai’s new luxury sub-brand, Genesis, revealed its latest concoction. Meet the 2019 Genesis G70 sedan, the BMW 3-Series’ latest contender from the Far East.
Many years in the making with plenty of hype and anticipation to accompany, the new Genesis G70 seeks to steal buyers away from the traditional European, and even Japanese, automakers currently dominating the compact sports sedan segment. And there’s a lot of participation. Besides the BMW 3-Series, the G70 joins the battlegrounds currently occupied by the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Jaguar XE, Alfa Romeo Giulia, and even America’s Cadillac ATS.
Can Genesis put a dent in one of the most competitive market segments in the entire automotive industry? We think so, and on paper, the G70 is very promising.
“The Genesis G70 is the latest demonstration of our dedication to delivering innovative, customer-oriented vehicles,” said Vice Chairman Dr. Woong-Chul Yang. “We will continue to focus our R&D efforts on the development and expansion of the Genesis brand. It is a great point of pride to have Genesis showcase what a true luxury brand of Korean origin can present to our discerning customers.”
It’s genesis for Genesis









































With the intent to compete with the BMW 3-Series, the Genesis G70 has some big shoes to fill. As a looker, the G70 provides a new take on the compact luxury sports sedan in the exterior design department. For instance, it doesn’t particularly act like it’s trying to mimic any of its competition. Instead, the G70 sports various aesthetic traits that clearly separate it from the competition. As a result, the G70 is unique in its own right, meshing a hint of European influence with South Korean Gangam-style flare.
Luc Donkerwolke, formerly of Bentley, calls the new G70 a true representation of Genesis’s new “athletic elegance” design theme.
“At Genesis, we shape fascination and desire with the passion, dedication and talent from our designers. We modulated all parameters from the Genesis DNA to tailor a sports sedan. This challenge required the highest skills and know-how. The G70 is designed to captivate all senses with its sensuous and tensioned muscular volumes.”
Inside, the Genesis G70’s interior appointments also seem well up to the task. It visually offers a luxury feel with a hint of sportiness. To prove that Genesis is serious about upping its performance driving game, the dashboard is angled towards the driver. That’s so the G70s infotainment and center stack can be easily controlled, much like the glory days of some old BMWs.
But it’s not all just show…
There’s plenty of go too with the choice of a 2.0L turbocharged gasoline inline-four, a range-topping 3.3L twin-turbo V6, and a 2.2L turbodiesel inline-four for Asian and European markets. The 2.0L GDI gas four is one we’ve become familiar with, offering around 250 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of twist. Though equip the sport package and the horsepower rating gets a subtle bump.
The 3.3L twin-turbo GDI V6 is another engine we’re already familiar with, serving duty in the latest G80 and G90 sedans. That’s good for around 370hp and 376 lb-ft of twist, which allows the fastest G70 to hit 62 miles per hour in just 4.7 seconds.
Genesis didn’t specify, but we imagine the company’s preexisting eight-speed automatic will serve cog swapping duty.
And it’s not just all power either…
Supporting the G70’s promising performance is a multi-link rear suspension setup, dynamic torque vectoring, and even a standard mechanical limited-slip differential. This is the kind of stuff that we’ve come to expect from German competition. But to find it on a new luxury sports sedan that’s the first of its kind from Korea is even more surprising.
To tweak the handling performance, Genesis says the G70 was extensively tested in extreme situations. From Death Valley, USA, to the “Green Hell” Nurburgring, to the Austrian Alps, and the northern end of Sweden, Genesis wanted to ensure the most optimal handling, performance, and durability in the most challenging of climates.
This of course means we can expect the G70 to come loaded with lots of kit. The list ranges from Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 15-speaker Lexicon surround audio system, and voice recognition. All of it is controlled by an eight-inch LCD touchscreen.
How much will it cost and when will it go on sale?
Genesis didn’t announce priving as of yet. But such specific details will be revealed sometime in early 2018.
– By: Chris Chin
2019 Genesis G70 Quick Specifications
Category
 Genesis G70
Length (mm)
4,685
Width (mm)
1,850
Height (mm)
1,400
Wheelbase (mm)
2,835

Overhang
(mm)
F
805
R
1,045
Engine Type
Lambda II 3.3 T-GDI
Theta II 2.0 T-GDI
R-FR 2.2 VGT
Drive Configuration
RWD
AWD
RWD
AWD
RWD
AWD

Fuel Economy
(km/ℓ)
9.0(19”)
8.6(19”)
10.7(18”)
10.4(19”)
10.0(18”)
9.5(19”)

15.2(17”)
14.5(18”)

13.6(17”)
13.5(18”)
Displacement
(cc)
3,342
1,998
2,199
Max Power
(ps)
370

252
(Sports Package: 255)
202
Max Torque
(kg·m)
52.0
36.0
45.0
2019 Genesis G70 Photo Gallery





























































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2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited Review: Not Too Shabby

2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited Review: Not Too Shabby It may not be as capable as the Tacoma TRD Off-Road we recently drove, but the Limited is still a good choice. This trim is a bit more luxurious while still sharing its sibling’s lifted stance. So it’s at least a little adventure-ready. And the Double Cab means you can take your friends with room for extra gear on the excursion. 
This week we did just that. We drove the 2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited 4×4 Double Cab.
What’s New For 2018
All Tacomas gain Toyota Safety Sense P, a suite of safety features that includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. The rest of the Tacoma is unchanged.
Features & Options: Heated Seats & Sound Systems
The 2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited 4×4 Double Cab ($40,215) is the most civilized version of the Tacoma. It lacks the TRD Off-Road’s specialized performance upgrades, and instead comes with nearly all of the Off-Road and Sport’s optional features as standard equipment.
Feature highlights include a power moonroof, parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated seats, leather upholstery, and JBL speakers with a subwoofer. Our automatic V6 tester came with smart entry and push-button start. Everything rides on the truck’s 18-inch wheels with lower-profile tires.
MSRP, including destination, for our 2018 model: $41,473. By comparison, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma Limited starts at $37,490. 
Not as large as the Tundra, the 2018 Toyota Tacoma is easier to maneuver in the city.
Interior Highlights: Nice But Cramped
The cabin is fine enough for longer trips, which we took over Vail Pass this week. With the heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and premium JBL audio, the Tacoma Limited is an a enjoyable place to spend time. The high floor and low roof still left us feeling a bit cramped on the long drive, however. 
Our tester came with an attractive black and brown interior and lots of soft-touch materials. Plenty of storage, plus the cell phone charging pad in front of the gear shifter is quite convenient. The backup camera made things simple, especially with the longer cab as we backed up in small parking spaces.
The front seats could use more adjustment capabilities as they offered minimal support, but the tilt/telescoping steering wheel makes it easier to find the right driving position. Our two adult passengers had adequate room in the back, but we needed to move the seats forward.
Overall, the cabin is tight and the seats are not the most forgiving on longer commutes. 
The interior of the 2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited is nice but the seats could be more comfortable.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Tacoma Limited is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 with direct injection, making 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft. of torque. Our tester came mated to a six-speed automatic with 4WDemand: A part-time 4×4 system with an electronically-controlled, two-speed transfer case.
Towing capacity for the Tacoma Limited with the V6 is 6,400 lbs. 
EPA-estimated fuel economy is 18/22 city/highway and 20 combined mpg. Fuel tank size is 21 gallons. When compared to the rest of the segment, the V6 Tacoma fares reasonably well.  
Related: Bigger than the Tacoma, the Tundra’s V8 packs a serious punch.
Driving Dynamics: Smooth & Good In The Snow 
The 278 horsepower V6 is a happy and high-revving engine. With both direct and port injection, and two variable valve systems (one with a wider intake), the Atkinson Cycle engine was satisfying to drive. Its 265 lb-ft. of torque work well with the six-speed automatic; the shifts are smooth and the gear spacing is excellent.
Limited gets the standard suspension, making its ride better than the TRD Off-Road. The front suspension uses double wishbones with coil springs. Rates were softened, both front and rear, to improve ride. Furthermore, that shock tuning included tweaks to the rebound damping to improve control.
We took the Tacoma Limited over Vail Pass after it had just snowed, and the roads were still slick and icy. This tester had regular all-season tires and not all-terrain meats. So we dialed up the 4WDemand system to 4High, and plowed over the pass without issue. The Limited will go anywhere as long as you have the clearance.
Related: An in-depth look at the 2019 Toyota TRD Pro lineup.
The 2018 Toyota Tacoma with the V6 comes with a Class IV receiver hitch, trailer sway control, and a transmission, engine oil, and power steering cooler.
Conclusion: Solid Marks Overall 
The 2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited will still take you off the beaten path, despite its nicer features. Toyota’s reputation for durability and strong resale value put it at the top of the list in the mid-size truck segment. If you are transporting dirt bikes, four-wheelers, snow machines; heading up the mountain to go skiing, or pulling a small camping trailer, this truck will meet your needs. 
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited Gallery














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



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2020 Subaru Crosstrek Release date, Engine, Hybrid

2020 Subaru Crosstrek Release date, Engine, Hybrid

With the latest generation of Subaru will soon prepare to issue their flagship SUV that will be ready for sale later in the year 2020. Rumors are circulating about the information this car is still very little. But we managed to get some information that would be helpful to know how this car will be issued. Subaru has been known to many as the best car produced.

This SUV is equipped with several features that will really help you. The release date for 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is still a rumor, we will deal with him later. The engine performance will be back on the increase, what is the hybrid variant will be available we have yet to know us. The competitors of this car like the Mazda CX-3 and no more Jeep Renegade will be ready to compete.

2020 Subaru Crosstrek Interior and exterior

Over the initial glance, there might not a lot of variations from this car to other automobiles produced by various companies. After further observation, it turns out the car or truck truly has a distinctive exterior design that can’t be identified in other SUV. As an example, the radiator grill of this Subaru Crosstrek is somewhat hidden beneath the firm brand situated on the horizontal accent. The headlight that is definitely situated on the curvy edge has separated design from its radiator grill. Design and style incorporated on the hood are featuring smooth curvature. The roof of 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is curved down gradually in classy form. Each front and rear bumpers make the most of stylish arch style and design.

New interior from the Subaru Crosstrek is no much less sophisticated than what it may possibly be observed within the exterior. It dominates with black shade theme and silver accents at some spot. Along with the stylish impression with the interior, it also makes use of the best materials for passengers’ comfort. Leather upholstering employed on all seats of this SUV is made from high-class materials.

The functions on Subaru Crosstrek is packed with a common feature this kind of as audio method and air conditioning. Manufacturer of this motor vehicle recognizes that such an attribute is not really adequate to gain customers’ trust. For that reason, airbag along with other safety capabilities can also be outfitted as well. Those functions will assure the security of one’s family trip.

Engine Performance

The 2.0 liter V4 can create 150 horsepower and 140 lb-ft torque. The manual shifts, as well as the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), is going to be made use of. The initiative has an extensively clean door and it is beneficial using the engine, nonetheless, it is the CVT that should be quite possibly the most well-known option. The moment the manual mode of the CVT is determined, 7 preset proportions are accessible through color scheme palettes.

2020 Subaru Crosstrek Release date and Price

What’s new and change what is available on this car we already discussed. Now for the release date information, to current Subaru has not issued a valid information about the release date for 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. But our speculations say that this car will be in ready by Subaru early in the year 2020 and will probably be on sale by the middle of the year.

For the price is also the same. Subaru to date has not issued a valid information about the price for this car. We hope you are better off waiting for the official confirms the information about the price of Subaru. Our predictions about price information may be available by early next year.

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Letter From The UK: The Rejection of Autonomous Cars

Letter From The UK: The Rejection of Autonomous Cars “If you build it they will come” may apply to baseball fields but autonomous cars are a different story.
The timeline for autonomous vehicles is right around the corner, but are we moving too fast?   
Perhaps autonomy is not the answer we seek? Maybe we are doing more harm than good? 
Rejecting Autonomous Cars
Some car makers are claiming they will have autonomous cars on the road by 2020. Perhaps for controlled testing, but otherwise no they won’t, for various reasons. For example, if you were in a position to get all drivers in the UK into a room – admittedly a very big room – and ask them for a round of applause for the coming of the autonomous car you would be met, Dear Reader, with the sound of resounding silence.
Sure, you might hear a ‘Whoop!’ from the cheap seats but that will just be the inevitable techno-nerd in the room.
With all the other things we have to worry about: Brexit, inept and cowardly politicians, plastic pollution, and gender issues to name but four, most Brits could not give a hoot nor a holler neither for the autonomous car.
Hybrids To The Rescue?
Over the last few years our government has been offering a special grant to car buyers, often of several thousand of our British Pounds, to encourage drivers to buy into PHEV hybrid technology, seen as the forerunner to full autonomy.
Well, we took full advantage of that, especially business users, who saved a lot of money. But a recent survey finds most of the charging cables are still wrapped up in the trunk and have never been used. Many of these cars are not being charged at all; thus vehicles that could achieve well over 100 miles per gallon if correctly deployed are in fact only averaging 39.27 mpg, according to the The Miles Consultancy.
The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA), which represents many fleets, explains, “higher taxes on diesel cars incentivized companies to buy plug-ins, even if they had no intention of using their electric capability.” This is how consciously we think about the environment and how, as a consequence, autonomous cars will likely be perceived. Too expensive to be viable for the average wage earner as anyone who has flicked through a Tesla catalogue will tell you.
Related: Everything you need to know before purchasing an electric vehicle.

Infrastructure Woes
Ours is an old country. Many of its roads and byways were first established during the Roman occupation of Britain. Narrow country lanes mix with ‘B’ roads, ‘A’ Roads, and motorways to criss-cross the land. It is a very convoluted, very broken, and pothole strewn system, currently well beyond the ability of the National purse to fund repairs. Never mind the cost of deploying all the roadside technology that will ultimately be needed.
It simply cannot be done.
Certainly we do currently enjoy partial autonomy in existing cars, particularly in their ability to react to certain dangers, but there is some considerable variance between different manufacturer’s driver assistance technology. There is no conformity to a set of standards. Very many cars today enjoy adaptive cruise control, for example, where you can set how close you get to the car in front but some systems are more conservative than others. Drivers still have to remain fully alert.
Unleashing these self-driving vehicles onto our roads too soon is a recipe for disaster.Click To TweetToo Much Too Soon?
The fact is that even the latest autopilots and AI are nowhere near ready for 2020 and mixing it with regular traffic?
It’s all talk.
I have been reading a lot on this subject written by freelance, non-aligned colleagues far more qualified than me to speak intelligently on matters of critical safety software. Always allowing for my ability to stay awake when people discuss autonomous cars, of course. The consensus is, they can’t do it except in controlled tests. Unleashing these self-driving vehicles onto our roads too soon is a recipe for disaster. In MY opinion.
Related: A recent AAA study finds most consumers are afraid of autonomous cars.

The Court of Public Opinion
Ultimately the public will decide. Within their limitations, electric cars are starting to gain popularity. This writer likes them for their instant responsiveness and finds them enjoyable to drive and that’s the point: I am still the driver at the wheel.
With all our many and various failings as drivers we still want to be in control of our own destinies. This is what car manufacturers can’t quite grasp. Clearly, their first objective is to make money and that requires some considerable long-term financial investments, but it is my belief they are throwing money away by trying to promote an autonomous future for the simple reason that most of us don’t want it.
When The Machine Stops
It goes without saying though that at some point in the distant future, in an increasingly authoritarian world, our descendants, like it or not, will be riding around in autonomous shuttles at a fixed speed because the state says so. For now though, I commend to you a short story, written presciently in 1909 by E.M. Forster called The Machine Stops, then wonder how far down this road we really want to go.
My question to manufacturers: You might be able to make it, but first you should ask if people want it.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite




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Audi

Audi

Audi Q7: Still Bearing the Classic Touch

 
The Audi Q7 was first unveiled for an exclusive group of journalists. However, it was a closed-door affair that turned out to be quite a successful one with several people from Audi of America joining in to answer any questions regarding the new Audi Q7. The new Audi Q7 is built on the very same platform that is also used by the Volkswagen Touareg and the Porsche Cayenne. It also holds a wheelbase that is quite longer than the Volkswagen Touareg by almost six inches. This kind of wheelbase then provides the Audi Q7 an overall look that exudes a sleek and stretched look.

The Audi Q7 is a sport utility vehicle. This vehicle has proportions that when combined work out very nicely providing a strong look. The vehicle contains and features headlights, tail lights, rear view mirrors and door handles that exude the traditional look that is considered to be simply an Audi. The Audi Q7 SUV has a grill that goes well with the vehicleÕs painted horizontal strip and as well as the adopted standard dark gray that is quite standard for AudiÕs vehicle lineup. Compared to the other models in the Audi family, the chrome strip around the grille for the Audi Q7 is considered to be quite narrow thus assisting greatly in making the grille of the Audi Q7 look a less overpowering.

It could be noticed that the Audi Q7 has the very same classic proportions that Audi Avants have. This includes a high shoulder line, a narrow window area, a sloping roofline that moves towards the rear of the Audi Q7, and an angled rear window. These all combine to provide a classy look for this sport utility vehicle. Basically, the taillights of the Audi Q7 are very much like the Audi Avant with its tips forming top corners of the license plate opening. Other than that, the Audi Q7 also has a rear bumper that has two long and thin reflectors mounted on it. This rear bumper holds the added assumed function of being turn signals or rear fog lights.

Setting the Audi Q7 apart from the Volkswagen Touareg and the Porsche Cayenne is this vehicleÕs optional third row seating. The center row for this sport utility vehicle has the ability to fold back down and slide forward, thus giving ample and easy access to the rear seating. It also contains a middle row that has the capacity to slide forward and provide more legroom for the rear seats. As for the third row, this entire row of seats could fold flat on the floor when it is not utilized. This gives more cargo area in the rear. The Audi Q7 also has an electronic control for this third row.

For impressive collections of Audi parts, customers can visit www.partstrain.com. This online store holds the latest in innovative and stylish Audi parts. Auto Parts Online is where customers can order genuine Audi parts and accessories at wholesale prices. Auto Parts Online supplies superior and highly durable Audi parts currently available.

By Jenny McLane.


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Letter From The UK: Living With The Automobile

Letter From The UK: Living With The Automobile
I like where I live. It facilitates ease of access to both the countryside and the malls, where I have spent many happy hours in my car waiting for my dear lady wife. Looking out from the slightly higher viewpoint of my home, I can see suburbia spread out before me like a model village where nothing ever goes wrong. Out there, lining the streets and driveways and alleys of the neighborhood are the cars. Some old, some younger, a few new and all mainstream, products of an auto advertising world of such efficiency, such power, as to convince seemingly sentient human beings the “crossover” is something other than a tall hatchback.
There is the occasional surprise; rounding a corner I came across a $190,000 Honda NSX casually parked on the street, but mostly the motors are middle-of-the-road.
It is my contention that most people, gearheads excepted, don’t really care too much about the car they buy as long as it does the job. Judging by some of the choices made, folks buy or lease what they like the look of within their budget. They have little interest in emissions or top speeds or alloy wheel size. They really don’t give a hoot nor a holler neither about how quickly it gets to 60 mph, and it is doubtful if more than a handful could tell you their vehicle’s European NCAP safety rating. Yet they have allowed themselves to be swayed by the anti-diesel lobby that the fuel is the work of the very devil himself.

The Diesel Question
The old argument used to be that, if you drove more than ten thousand miles per annum, you would be financially better off buying a car with a diesel engine. Indeed, in the olden times of the late 20th century, we were actively persuaded right up to government level that diesel-powered cars where a good thing.
And then one day they weren’t.
Use of the fuel became a bad thing because of the emission of diesel particulates, which we were lead to believe was poisoning perambulating pedestrians. This was not a revelation: We knew about them but not necessarily about the true carcinogenic effects. Meanwhile, the petrochemical and auto industries have been working hard to satisfy European regulations. Diesel has never been cleaner and, since all such vehicles have to be fitted with ever more efficient particulate filters within their exhaust systems, the harmful emissions have been reduced. Notwithstanding this, the rot has set in and diesel sales have fallen off a cliff. Buyers spurn them.
Diesel sales continue to fall. There was a huge decline during November, down by 30.6 percent for the month; whilst petrol vehicle sales have risen by five percent. This was the seventh month of decline. Alternative-fueled cars continue to pick up pace, however. November saw a 33 percent rise in registrations. It is diesel that has suffered the most, like the ugliest dog in the pound.

The Catch
In the rush to demonise diesel, the naysayers seem to have forgotten that, for the most part, modern diesel cars emit less emissions overall than their petrol counterparts. The result is that, in Great Britain, CO² outpourings have risen for the first time in fourteen years! This, say car industry bosses, is because buyers have turned their backs on diesel.
The CEO of the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders in the UK is quoted as saying, “falling business and consumer confidence is being exacerbated by ongoing anti-diesel messages from government. Diesel remains the right choice for many drivers, not least because of its fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions.”
They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing. It might be apposite to add that a little knowledge in the hands of government can often be disastrous for industry.
In 2018, the Chevy Cruze (both sedan and hatchback) will be available with a 1.6-liter turbo-diesel engine. With an EPA-estimated 52 highway mpg, the Cruze diesel has the highest highway fuel economy of any non-hybrid/non-EV in the United States. Photo: Chevrolet.
The Brexit Effect
It is fair to say the imminent exit of the UK from the European Union has had an economic effect. There is less consumer confidence owing to the uncertainty. Sales of luxury goods like cars are way down. This is of course, in an effort to deflect attention from incompetence, partly due to those in power fanning the bonfire of Brexit with a big hat, but it is also true that Joe Public is hanging onto his trusty car for a bit longer.
Yet still the new cars come, the newest and the latest, all offering very little more than the model before. They gleam and glimmer from the showrooms like metal harlots, promising much but ultimately never really satisfying. The trouble is, we’ve become so used to living with the automobile as part of the family lifestyle that I don’t imagine for a moment we will ever want to give them up, whatever motive power comes next. The car industry certainly hopes so.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite



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2018 Nissan Titan & Titan XD: Pricing & Performance Overview

2018 Nissan Titan & Titan XD: Pricing & Performance Overview Nissan has announced pricing and packaging details for the 2018 Titan and Titan XD. The biggest news for the trucks is the availability of the Midnight Edition Package, found on seven other Nissan vehicles. The automaker continues to promote what they call “America’s Best Truck Warranty,” which provides Titan owners with bumper-to-bumper coverage for 5 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Here is a look at what the 2018 Nissan Titan and Titan XD will offer.
Custom Appointments
The Midnight Edition designation dresses the Titan straight from the factory with a body color grille, body color front and rear bumpers, dark headlamps, dark charcoal interior trim, and a special “Midnight Edition” exterior badge. Blacked-out treatments include the fog lamp finishers, mirrors, door handles, step rails, and the truck’s 20-inch wheels. The Midnight Edition package is available on Titan and Titan XD Crew Cab SV and SL grades, in either a 4×2 or 4×4 configuration.
Configurations & Features
The 2018 Nissan Titan is available in nine Crew Cab, five King Cab, and four Single Cab drive and grade configurations. Available features to help with hauling and towing include an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, Trailer Sway Control, Tow/Haul Mode with Downhill Speed Control, and a Trailer Light Check system. The new Nissan Titan also has a number of available convenience and safety features, including navigation, voice recognition, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert among others.
Power & Performance
Every Titan is powered by the 5.6-liter Endurance V8 which produces 390 horsepower and 394 lb-ft. of torque. Nissan says the engine utilizes advanced Variable Valve Event & Lift, which combines hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake side for crisp response. The engine’s Direct Injection Gas technology, according to Nissan, provides better wide-open throttle performance and improved fuel economy.
The 5.6-liter Endurance V8 is mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission. When properly equipped, the 2018 Nissan Titan can tow up to 9,740 lbs., with a maximum payload capacity of 1,950 lbs.
Photos: Nissan North America.
Titan XD
Nissan truck buyers needing a little more bite can opt for the Titan XD, the bigger brother of the Titan pack. The XD offers some larger truck capability with pricing closer to that of a half-ton. When properly equipped, the XD can pull 12,310 lbs. with a max payload capacity of 2,080 lbs. Now in its third year, the XD offers Crew, King, and Single Cab body styles, two bed lengths, 4×4 or 4×2 configurations, and five grade levels. In addition to the 5.6-liter Endurance V8, a Cummins 5.0-liter V8 Turbo Diesel is available.
The Cummins engine features the M2 two-stage turbo system, which reduces lag by carefully balancing between high-pressure and low-pressure turbos. The patented Rotary Turbine Control provides solid performance across the powerband and manages exhaust gas temperatures, according to Nissan. Weight was cut by utilizing compacted graphite iron for the cylinder block; other lightweight components consist of high-strength aluminum-alloy heads and composite valve covers.
Like its Titan sibling, the XD offers the same aforementioned features to assist with hauling and towing. The Titan XD’s RearView Monitor with Trailer Guides help with backing up to a trailer; an available Intelligent Around View Monitor will help with visibility around the truck.
Photo: Nissan North America.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Nissan Titan and Titan XD are arriving now at dealerships nationwide. Below are pricing charts for each of the available models.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 
Titan S Single Cab 4×2
$29,780 USD
Titan SV King Cab 4×4
$39,160 USD
Titan PRO-4X Crew Cab 4×4
$45,670 USD
Titan SL Crew Cab 4×2
$47,030 USD
Titan Platinum Crew Cab 4×4
$56,050 USD
Titan XD Gas SV Single Cab 4×4
$38,720 USD
Titan XD Gas S King Cab 4×4
$36,790 USD
Titan XD Gas PRO-4X King Cab 4×4
$45,640 USD
Titan XD Gas SL Crew Cab 4×2
$49,160 USD
Titan XD Gas Platinum Crew Cab 4×2
$54,530 USD
Titan XD Diesel SV Single Cab 4×2
$41,740 USD
Titan XD Diesel S King Cab 4×4
$43,840 USD
Titan XD Diesel PRO-4X Crew Cab 4×4
$53,130 USD
Titan XD Diesel SL Crew Cab 4×4
$57,440 USD
Titan XD Diesel Platinum Crew Cab 4×4
$63,360 USD
Photos & Source: Nissan North America.



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2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van Review

2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van Review
Do you have people-moving requirements but don’t need a large, expensive full-size van? Enter the Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van. It slots perfectly between small and full-size vans, becoming the only passenger van of its kind on the market. It’s fairly sparse on features and it doesn’t come with the typical Mercedes-Benz price tag. It does come, however, with a direct-injected turbo engine which delivers good fuel mileage for its size.
What’s New For 2017
Mercedes-Benz now offers a new Worker model available for both Cargo and Passenger configurations. They come with the same standard features as the regular models, but the limited number of configurations allows for a lower base price.
Features & Options
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van ($32,900) comes standard with 17-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, remote locking and unlocking, air-conditioning, adjustable steering wheel with mounted shift paddles, 2nd and 3rd row removable seats, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port.
Passenger models also get rear air-conditioning, heated rear window with washers and wipers, rear window tinting, and a nine-speaker audio system. All Metris vans have right and left side sliding rear doors. Further back, you’ll find 180-degree rear cargo doors. This Metris tester came with the optional power sliding doors on the right and left side ($760 each). Total MSRP, including destination: $35,415.





Interior Highlights
Inside the Mercedes-Benz Metris, it’s all about function and not so much about luxury. This van is for hauling customers around town in an efficient manner. When we first got in the van to drive it for Christmas weekend, we couldn’t find the outside mirror remote adjustment. Well, it didn’t have one. 
There’s lots of room for the driver and passenger up front with plenty of head and elbow room for comfort. A long dash, tall windshield, and short hood give the driver a sense of spaciousness, plus excellent visibility for trips around the city. The driver’s seat is surprisingly comfortable for those frequent journeys that involve transporting people and their cargo. This van would be ideal for picking up and delivering passengers and their luggage as they arrive and depart from the airport. 
This Metris tester came with the optional power sliding rear doors, which the driver can control from the cockpit. This makes it easy to load and unload, and step-in height is just 18.5 inches, allowing easy in-and-out. The seat height is just right so passengers can slide in and out easily. The vinyl flooring, which covers the front and passenger areas, makes it easy to clean up spills. 
There’s two rows behind the driver and seating for seven total including the driver. The second row has two seats pushed to the left making it easy to enter the third row. The third row will seat adults comfortably, and there’s ample room behind for bags, suitcases, and other items. Second and third rows are removable so the van can be used to haul even more cargo when needed.





Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
Powering the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris is a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque. It’s paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, transferring power to the rear wheels. EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 20/23 city/highway and 22 combined mpg.
Driving Dynamics
The Mercedes-Benz Metris passenger hauler had more power than we expected, although we never had a van full of people to pull around. It could be called energetic compared to what you’ll find in other small passenger/cargo vans. The turbo 2.0-liter engine powered us up I-70 at altitude with minimal effort.
In terms of handling, we didn’t have high expectations for the Metris, however, the van is far from sloppy and even somewhat fun to drive around town, making those people-hauling commutes less of a chore. The 7-speed automatic transmission upshifts and downshifts quickly, especially through the steep grades we pushed the Metris on over the holiday weekend. Crosswinds were quite noticeable near the I-70 and Morrison portions of the highway, despite the load-adaptive stability control feature with Crosswind Assist.
The large, dark tinted side windows offer customers a comfortable place to view the outside world, without the outside world’s prying eyes seeing inside. Our only complaint with the Metris is how it isn’t offered with all-wheel drive. We experienced a snowfall in the mountains and the rear-drive passenger van struggled as we hit snowy and icy spots on our drive.
Conclusion
If you have a business that requires you to move people or cargo but don’t need a large, expensive full-size van, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris is worth a serious look. For around $35,000, you get a capable people mover that won’t cost a fortune at the pump and can navigate city streets easily.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Gallery























Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van Official Site.
Photos: MBUSA.



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Porsche 911 GT2 RS Fastest 911 Ever With Staggering Nürburgring Lap

Porsche 911 GT2 RS Fastest 911 Ever With Staggering Nürburgring Lap

Somehow over the years, the Nürburgring has become the de facto benchmark for carmakers. What once started out as a make-work project by the Nazis (no, really) and ended up being the venue for the German Grand Prix for decades was, for a while there, seemingly consigned to being a footnote in racing history. Niki Lauda’s near-fatal crash in ’76 sounded the death knell for the track as a GP venue in favor of safer more anodyne locations like Hockenheim or the new Nürburgring GP circuit.
Local Attraction, Digital Destination
The old track, properly referred to as the Nürburgring-Nordschleife, was still there, draped around the countryside, ringing the ancient ruins of a Medieval castle, used on occasion for sports car races, and, for no sane, logical, reasonable explanation, open to the average driver as a public road. You could, and still can, for a not-unreasonable fee, take any car with a license plate for a lap around the old Nordschleife. Everything from 2CVs to big bore Ferraris were welcome and this, over the years, grew organically into a yardstick to measure yourself and your car.
Automotive manufacturers cottoned to this growing level of cachet right around the same time that Sony and Microsoft were establishing themselves in the game console market. Before you could legally drive on a public road in this country, you could lap the Nürburgring-Nordschleife just as fast as your digital car could go in a PlayStation or Xbox.
And now, setting a hot lap time around the old circuit means something, and boy, did Porsche just blast off a hot one a few days back with their 2018 911 GT2 RS. For those of you that want to cut to the chase, here’s the number: 6:47.3. That is, to use the engineering term, really &#%$^*$ fast! I mean mein Gott in Himmel fast. Seriously. Power up your PlayStation or your Xbox and give it a go. See how fast you can go. G’head. Take your time. I can wait . . . see? Not that easy, is it?
Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Sunday Driver
And do keep in mind that although the 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS is a factory stripper hot rod, it is also a fully street legal sports car. This is no track day special. You could hang a license plate off your 911 GT2 RS and drive it to work if you wanted to. I know I would, but I’m funny like that.
Porsche’s best lap time of 6:47.3 minutes surpassed Zuffenhausen’s internal target by 17.7 seconds, a huge gap to say the least. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Head of Motorsport and GT Cars for Porsche, stated flatly, “this result makes it official: The GT2 RS is not only the most powerful, but also the fastest 911 model ever built.”
As if that lap record wasn’t intimidating enough, it’s also worth noting that it wasn’t a single, go for broke, banzai lap. Porsche points out that once drivers Lars Kern and Nick Tandy broke the previous record for street legal sports cars of 6:52.01, they immediately proceeded to lap the track in under 6:50 on five separate occasions. Although Kern and Tandy were each trading the quickest times back and forth, it was Kern, a Porsche test driver by trade that set the quickest mark of the day.
Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.


Power & Performance
The specs for the 911 GT2 RS are just as staggering as that lap time. It’s the fastest and most powerful road-going 911 thanks to a 3.6-liter twin turbo flat-six engine, producing 700 horsepower and 553 lb-ft. of torque. The two-seater tips the scales at 3,241 pounds and is shod with standard N-spec Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. All this adds up to a 0 to 60 launch of 2.7 seconds and a top speed of 211 mph.
The Porsche 911 GT2 RS is the cover car in Microsoft’s upcoming Forza 7. Forza 7 will be one of the main launch titles for the soon-to-be-released Xbox One X which means, given the inclusion of the Nürburgring-Nordschleife in Forza, that you could have a tilt at those lap times laid down by Messrs. Kern and Tandy. I know I’ll be trying.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias toward lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.

Photos, Video & Source: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.



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