Ram 1500 North Edition: Over The River & Through The Woods (Literally)

Ram 1500 North Edition: Over The River & Through The Woods (Literally) The 2019 Ram 1500 North Edition takes it to Old Man Winter.
Goodies include a one-inch factory lift and locking differential. 
Ram’s special edition lineup has seen multiple new entries over the last year. 
Pick your poison Mopar fans! The Hydro Blue Sport, Lone Star Edition, Heavy Duty Night Editions; even a Kentucky Derby Edition. More recently, the 1500 Rebel 12 and 2500 Power Wagon Mojave Sand Editions come to mind. Ram is stacking the deck with special edition trucks and they are adding another to the mix.
The 1500 North Edition is arriving just as Old Man Winter sets up shop, but a note of observation first:
Trucks For Every Taste
Ram’s special edition blast (as it were) is not without sound reason or intent. Think of it like this: trucks sell in droves and that trend will continue for the foreseeable future. With so many on the road, driving one with a special edition theme says I’m part of the crowd – but – in my own individual way. Ram has plenty of that in their lineup today. And it’s especially alluring.
Related: Ram tops GM in sales for the time being.
Concerning the 1500 North Edition, it’s more than just looks – although it is that too. Based on the Big Horn, the North’s monochromatic theme includes the body-color bumpers, door handles, mirrors, and grille. But underneath the skin, the bones are solid.
“The 2019 Ram 1500 North is more than a great-looking pickup, it offers cold-weather content for truck owners who require a no-compromise 4×4 as part of their daily regimen,” explained Reid Bigland, Head of Ram Brand. “A factory lift, locking rear axle, and all-weather tires deliver confidence when your path is anything but clear.”
The 2019 Ram 1500 North Edition features a one-inch factory lift, an electric-locking rear axle, and front tow hooks. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Those Tires Though . . .
The all-weather tries are three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF), severe snow service-rated on/off-road Falken LT tires. Say that three times fast! Three is the magic number, however, for the transfer case, which has three different settings: Auto, High, and Low. Ram added an engine block heater too, for those early mornings after the truck sits facing a north wind all night.
Related: Simple but effective: Our full review of the 2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman.
Interior Treatments
Plenty of warmth inside with a heated steering wheel and the heated, 12-way power driver’s seat with four-way power lumbar. SiriusXM Travel Link Weather, heated and folding mirrors, and Mopar all-weather floor mats are included.
2019 Ram 1500 North Edition interior layout. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Power & Performance
The North’s 3.6-liter Pentastar with eTorque creates 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft. of torque, and features revised variable valve timing and two-step variable valve lift systems. By comparison, the larger 5.7-liter Hemi creates 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft. of torque. Both engines have Interactive Deceleration Fuel Shut Off (iDFSO), which pauses fuel flow to the cylinders under deceleration in third gear and higher.
Every 2019 Ram 1500 – including the North Edition – is equipped with a fully-electronic TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic. The transmission features a wide spread of gear ratios to balance power and efficiency.
The engine choice is ultimately up to you.
Pricing & Availability
The 2019 Ram 1500 North Edition is available now with a starting MSRP of $47,585. The truck comes in Crew Cab 4×4 with either a short or long bed.
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.
2019 Ram 1500 North Edition Gallery





Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.



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2020 Infiniti QX60 Release Date, Redesign, Price

2020 Infiniti QX60 Release Date, Redesign, Price

With all the updates there will be on the latest generation of the 2020 Infiniti QX60 will make you think this car to enter into your plan, the quality of the vehicle will be a priority of the Infiniti and we believe this car will not disappoint you, stick family car will experience an increase in sales is evident from his numerous requests from the year 2018 and will continue on the following year.

Rumors are circulating there will be redesigned in the latest models of Infiniti QX60. And rumors about the release date of this car there is no certainty. Interior and exterior will experience many updates and what will be with the plugin hybrids we have yet to know for sure, but we believe that Infiniti will issue a plugin hybrid for Infiniti QX60.

Exterior and Interior redesign

The redesign interior cabin is unquestionably a powerful stage of Infiniti QX60 and we’re very sure that larger changes won’t come for that 2020 QX60. The spacious cabin makes a fantastic mixture with tons of normal tools. The primary point you’ll recognize can be a good element high-quality and a spacious cargo spot. In relation to equipment, there are actually two trim amounts – Pure and Luxe. The base Pure comes with convenient features like 18-inch wheels, power tailgate, xenon headlights, sunroof, LED fog lights, keyless entry, and ignition and so forth. About the inside, you are able to count on heated front seats, 9.0-inch touchscreen, tri-zone automatic climate control, USB, Bluetooth and satellite radio and simulated leather upholstery.

The Base trim consists of all over but additionally adds several exciting functions. Several of the highlights certainly is a premium audio method, remote engine get started, roof rails, rear bumper protector, driver memory settings, a heated steering wheel and so forth. Also, a whole plethora of optional packages can be found at this trim level.

In regards to base layout qualities, there’s no location for modifications at the second. With regards to mechanics, this models hasn’t altered for this five many years and unquestionably will not till the redesign. Within this element, we are speaking about a crossover that’s virtually exactly the same as the current-generation Pathfinder. The Infiniti QX60 could possibly be slightly longer, but two designs feature precisely the same wheelbase. They ride around the very same D Platform, which guarantees a spacious cabin and strong driving qualities.

In terms of the styling, 2020 Infiniti QX60 will are available in the brand’s acquainted method. A sleek profile in the blend with plenty of smooth lines and design components that characterize this crossover. Two many years ago, we saw a facelift which has brought new front and rear fascias, together with new headlights, bumpers and so forth. More modifications for this generation don’t appear so likely.

Engine Performance

2020 Infiniti QX60 is actually a hybrid thus it really is particular that it will eventually come with a standard engine and an electronic motor. The Infiniti QX60 hybrid edition is a 2.5 litter and 4 barrel engine working together with a 15 kW. It’ll be mated with CVT gear program. It can be indeed an incredible mixture. The engine has the skill to provide a total of 260 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque to produce it one particular in the most impressive engines during the industry. The engine is obtainable if 4 wheels drive and have an 8-velocity transmission that’s automated. Mileage has considerably greater and it ranges concerning 20 mpg, 21 mpg up to 27 mpg. As well present improved ground clearance than in advance of will obtainable by the new generation Infiniti QX60.

2020 Infiniti QX60 Release Date and Price

You may be asking when this car will be in the news release, rumor has it that this car will be released early in the year 2020. And some of his other rumor news saying that the release date of 2020 Infiniti QX60 there will be in the middle of the year 2020. We recommend that you wait for the confirmation directly from Infiniti regarding this information.

And for the price. We do not yet have information that is so right on the price of this car. Some competitors like the Acura MDX car and Audi Q7 also has yet to release information about the price. We also recommend that you wait for the official confirmation from the Infiniti on the price of this car.

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Top Automotive Trends 2018 (Driverless Cars Slip, Trucks & SUVs Surge)

Top Automotive Trends 2018 (Driverless Cars Slip, Trucks & SUVs Surge) As 2018 comes to a close, trucks and SUVs will continue to dominate.
Aftermarket sales remain strong as consumers seek to personalize their vehicles.
Despite bold promises from manufacturers, the public seems disinterested in autonomous driving. 
Here are the top automotive trends of 2018 with a look ahead to next year.
The automotive industry and aftermarket remain strong as Americans continue their love affair with personal transportation. Despite doom-and-gloom predictions to the contrary, cheap gas and a strong economy have encouraged shoppers to step into showrooms and drive out with something new. This year, aftermarket products have provided a large variety of choices to car enthusiasts, leading industry experts to believe that 2019 is primed for steady, continued growth.
Above all, trucks have supplanted import sedans to become the new status-symbol luxury vehicle.
Top Automotive Trends 2018: Trucks & SUVs Dominate
At the beginning of 2018, the auto industry watched to see which direction the trends would move. Concerns included alternate powertrains (hybrids & EVs), passenger car versus truck sales, and the impact of global events on consumer confidence.
With ten months of the year behind us, pickups, SUVs, and minivans have strengthened their dominance, jumping from 63 percent of the total market in 2017 to 68.5 percent as of October 2018.  As a result, we have seen major manufacturers like Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Ford drop some sedans due to slow sales. Additionally, luxury manufacturers began entering the light truck game. We even have SUVs from Jaguar, Maserati, Lamborghini, and Rolls-Royce – and it’s rumored Ferrari will also build one!
Related: The battle for younger buyers heats up in the SUV and crossover market.
Lamborghini Urus: Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Top Automotive Trends 2018: Online Retailers Benefit
As new vehicle sales go up, sales of aftermarket accessories also go up. Owners of new vehicles who want them personalized turn to their favorite aftermarket retailer. Advances in safety and technology, including lighting and cameras, trickle down to drivers of older cars who also want these features. And they get them from the aftermarket.
With trucks taking a larger slice of the pie, truck-specific wants like big wheels and lift kits sell strongly. And as consumers (including car owners) prefer to shop electronically, it’s online aftermarket retailers who are benefiting greatly from these trends.
On the flip side, hybrids and electric vehicles still account for a very small percentage of the market. Predictions that all road-going vehicles will be autonomous in five years have faded into the background. Several highly-publicized accidents and fatalities have given this technology a black eye, forcing some companies to postpone or even cancel their efforts.
The more realistic predictions are that widespread applications are at least a decade or two away.
Related: A recent AAA study finds most consumers are afraid of autonomous cars.
Earlier this year, Hyundai begun a strategic partnership with Autotalks for the manufacturing of Vehicle to Everything communication chipsets. V2X technology allows vehicles to communicate with each other, as well as road users and infrastructure. Photo: Hyundai Motor Company.
What Was Seen At SEMA 2018
Each year, thousands of car enthusiasts make their way to Las Vegas for the SEMA show. A colleague who attended shared some insights. He said that compared to previous visits, he has never seen the show so crowded, which speaks to the health of the aftermarket.
Unsurprisingly, the number one trend was trucks, trucks, and more trucks.
Horsepower was big, as always, and this year, reaching or surpassing 1,000 horsepower seemed almost par for the course. Electric cars were on display alongside the big gas-engine brutes; both a new electric Camaro concept and a ’49 Mercury converted to electric were shown. By contrast, autonomous vehicles were not a major highlight, as consumers continue to clutch their long-held desire to own their own set of wheels, preferably personalized.
Related: People still love driving despite onset of autonomous cars.
Chevy eCOPO Camaro Concept. Photo: Chevrolet.
2019 Projections: Engine Technology & Ride Sharing
New Engine Tech: Thanks to VW, the diesel engine is all but dead. New technologies like Nissan’s variable-displacement engine and Mazda’s compression-petrol engine will ensure gasoline remains a viable fuel source. Hybrids and pure EVs will slowly but surely capture a slightly larger percentage of sales.
However, as long as gas remains cheap in the U.S., trucks will sell in big numbers, especially with their high horsepower engines.
Ride-Sharing’s Next Ride: Uber, Lyft and the like may add to congestion in places like New York City, but they help convince young adults that old-school car ownership is no longer a given. Connected to this is the nascent “Vehicle Subscription” model. Vehicle subscriptions include maintenance, taxes, and insurance, all for one monthly number. Swaps into other models from the manufacturer’s lineup are usually included.
Consumers can walk away at any time. The downside? Monthly prices that run between $1,000-$3,000. They’re starting with luxury brands but, if it catches on, expect car makers to find ways to reduce that cost.
The “Mercedes-Benz Collection” allows subscribers to switch between different vehicles depending on their needs or lifestyle. The program consists of three tiers – Signature, Reserve, and Premier – with prices ranging from $1,095 to $2,995 per month after an activation fee. Subscribers can choose from all the available vehicles in that tier, sedans, coupes, cabriolets, roadsters, and wagons among them. Photo: MBUSA.
2019 Projections: Smarter Cities & Economic Impacts
Crowded Urban Areas: We are on a collision course as single-occupancy SUVs compete for space with ride-sharing drivers in already jammed urban areas. Add to that: FedEx and UPS trucks making hourly Amazon deliveries, lack of investment in public transportation, electric scooters serving as alternatives, and concerns about pollution and climate change.
Some European cities have already made plans to ban internal-combustion vehicles from their streets in the coming decade.
I predict that in 2019 some U.S. cities, recognizing that an outright ban is too extreme, will instead get serious about congestion pricing and “car-free pedestrian zones” as ways to combat the congestion.
The Elephant In The Room: The automotive industry, perhaps more than any other, depends very much on free global trade. A failure by world powers to reach a solution to trade issues could upend any or all of what we foresee for 2019.
Top Automotive Trends 2018: Boiling It Down
Overall, my predictions for 2019 are more of what we already have; pickups, Jeeps, crossovers, horsepower, customization, and individualization. The aftermarket is healthy and looking forward to continued, strong growth in 2019. Especially as SUVs keep taking a larger percentage of the new vehicle sales pie at the expense of fewer sedans.
Richard Reina is the Product Training Director at CARiD and an auto enthusiast and expert with over 30 years of experience working with cars.



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BMW Debuts “Smart Glasses” To Assist Technicians In The Field

BMW Debuts “Smart Glasses” To Assist Technicians In The Field BMW is introducing new technology across its dealer network for technicians in the shop. 
New “smart glasses” are part of a larger system to help technicians work more efficiently. 
The glasses and corresponding technology programs will be available later this month. 
BMW is getting into the augmented reality game. BMW plans to use the visual overlay technology in their North American dealerships to reduce repair and maintenance times; thereby increasing overall workshop efficiency and, eventually, improving customer satisfaction. Yes, this applies to MINI Dealers as well.
And no, you, the driver, do not get to wear them while you’re driving. This is about your car, not you specifically as the driver.
We covered this last year when Porsche jumped into the augmented reality game in much the same way. BMW’s plan is called the Technical Support & Research Assistant or TSARA. The AR glasses are called TSARAVision Smart Glasses. Yeah, no, really, TSARAVision. Let’s look beyond that for the time being and delve a little deeper into what the Bavarians are up to.
What Is BMW’s TSARA System?
TSARA is BMW’s new online case-reporting system and not to be confused with Tristan Tzara, the DadAist poet (although it might be fun if you do). BMW’s TSARA aims to speed up the repair and maintenance process by 70 to 75 percent. They aim to do this via an instinctive and mechanic-friendly interface that supplies faster case-entries (handy for book keeping) and full multimedia support. In a nutshell, TSARA aims to provide technicians in the field (i.e. mechanics in dealer repair shops throughout the country) quick and trouble-free access to technical information.
This includes a live link to BMW engineers in real time for further technical support. All of this is part of BMW’s new Technical Information System, or TIS 2.0.
BMW’s new Technical Information System is a multimedia platform for this kind of technician support. It was developed in-house with feedback from technicians in the field by BMW North America, and can be accessed by dealer personnel on any mobile device. When accessed, it puts all technical data for every BMW and MINI model at the technician’s fingertips. This helps mechanics from having to stop in the middle of jobs to flip through shop manuals, or dial up diagrams and such on computer terminals.
BMW is debuting three new dealer support systems: Technical Information System (TIS 2.0), Technical Support & Research Assistant (TSARA), and the TSARAVision Smart Glasses. Each provide technicians with faster access to information and a real-time link to engineers. Photo: BMW of North America LLC.
How Do BMW’s Smart Glasses Work?
Once hooked up, technicians can collaboratively work through a given issue to resolve it faster and more efficiently. If need be, the expert on the other end will project technical bulletins and schematic drawings onto the display inside the technician’s glasses with step-by-step guides. Technicians can also take screen shots and enlarge images, which sounds real handy.
I know what you’re thinking. “What about greasy fingers covered in gunk pushing all those sensitive buttons?” BMW is way ahead of you. The mechanic can open and view documents via voice instructions right in the middle of working on your car. Think of it as BMW’s own internal version of Amazon’s Alexa.
“TIS 2.0, TSARA, and the TSARAVision Smart Glasses are great examples of how we are applying new technologies to help BMW technicians work more efficiently and further our commitment to offer the best possible service experience for BMW customers,” said Claus Eberhart, Vice President, Aftersales, BMW of North America. “By solving issues faster, BMW dealers can get customers back into their cars sooner.”
Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Change For The Better
TSARA is much more efficient than sending in electronic forms or uploading photos, or explaining complex technical issues over the phone. “No … no, right next to that. There’s a notch and I think it has to be … ” will soon be a thing of the past. At least at all 347 BMW and MINI dealerships. And BMW was fiscally smart too, using available, off-the-shelf components like Realwear HMT-1 Smart Glasses and Ubimax Augmented Reality Software. However, despite the new technology, there is still a need for good technicians.
“Vehicle technology is becoming more complex, which only highlights the need for excellent technicians,” said Neal Guthrie, Department Head for Technical Service, BMW of North America. “Hiring top technicians and providing them with the best possible systems and tools with which to work will be critical to our success.”
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 his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz. 
Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.



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Israeli Company Utilizes Military Background For Autonomous Cars

Israeli Company Utilizes Military Background For Autonomous Cars


Some time ago, I started describing different vehicle features as “eyes.” It was the most fitting and understandable analogy for the customers I was serving at the dealership. Admittedly, I knew little about cars when I began selling them now almost a decade ago, so these quick analogies were as much for me as they were for my customers. Adaptive Cruise Control, reverse cameras, and backup sensors were just coming online at the time. “Think of them like an extra set of eyes helping you drive,” I would say to customers.
Fusion Factor
Generally speaking, what qualifies as innovative technology today becomes more advanced tomorrow. Autonomous driving represents the current pinnacle of innovation in the automotive industry, and to some, it’s as abstract as Adaptive Cruise Control was just less than a decade ago. While I am open to new ways to present the modern automobile, my “eyes” analogy remains my go-to, especially as driverless vehicles are becoming more of a reality.
In the autonomous realm, “sensor fusion” is a common term. Wikipedia offers an excellent description: “the combining of sensory data or data derived from disparate sources such that the resulting information has less uncertainty than would be possible when these sources were used individually.” In other words, the more “eyes” a given application has – in this case an autonomous car – the more effective. And the more we consider sensor fusion and the successful implementation of automated driving, the more LiDAR enters the conversation.
“The LiDAR with the camera makes the whole autonomous car system much more reliable,” explained Omer Keilaf, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, Innoviz Technologies. “This is where the fusion between different sensors is very important.”
Eye In The Sky
Innoviz Technologies wants to facilitate autonomous vehicle production through solid-state LiDAR solutions. LiDAR, or Light Detection and Ranging, is a remote sensing method used to examine a surrounding environment, which with regard to autonomous vehicles, means our everyday roads. LiDAR determines the distance to a particular point by illuminating it with a pulsed laser light; the reflected pulses are then measured to determine how far away said point is. From there, 3D representations of the point and surrounding area can be made. The uses for LiDAR are numerous: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration uses LiDAR to study the Earth’s surface while the Agricultural Research Service utilizes it to help farmers map their land.
Bats actually use a similar process with sound waves to navigate.
Photo: Innoviz Technologies.
Four-Fold Foundation
Innoviz Technologies is designing what they say is a continuously evolving LiDAR solution to better address the challenges of autonomous driving. The company’s LiDAR products, InnovizOne and InnovizPro, use a patent-pending technology with a focus in four main areas: Region of Interest, meaning enabling longer range sensing at a region or point of interest while capturing the entire field of view at full frame rate; Multi-Frame Mode, meaning a high frame rate and resolution is maintained for long range sensing while extra long range objects and obstacles at a lower frame rate are still accounted for; Object Detection and Classification, meaning the use of advanced computer vision for accurate detection and classification of different types of objects, and Simultaneous Localization and Mapping – sometimes called “SLAM” – meaning high resolution 3D mapping.
In other words, LiDAR is a tremendous set of eyes; a set of eyes Innoviz Technologies wants to mass produce for the forthcoming autonomous era in a small, efficient package.
“By challenging the conventions of LiDAR design, we were able to develop a LiDAR solution that delivers superior performance at a reasonable price and in a much smaller footprint – three factors that are required to help autonomous driving achieve mass commercialization,” Keilaf said. “We’ve spent many months exploring the right way to solve these problems.”
Cost Conscious
Innoviz designs their LiDAR units with a particular emphasis on cost. Even in the autonomous world, automakers will have financial targets to meet with regard to production. There is the end consumer who has cost in mind when purchasing a new vehicle too. Given the importance of cost when it comes to manufacturing, automakers are likely to reject an overly expensive LiDAR unit.
“We started the company with a very clear understanding and declaration of that problem,” Keilaf added. “There are some technologies that are not relevant for mass production because they are too expensive, so it’s very important that our technology can eventually go really low cost.”
Photo: Innoviz Technologies.


Disciplined & Directed
Innoviz also leverages a unique background, one not every entity in the autonomous driving space can claim. The company was founded by former members of the elite technological unit of the Israeli Defense Forces. Collectively, the founders have expertise in electro-optics, computer vision, MEMS design, and signal processing. Keilaf believes the technical, yet diverse backgrounds of his team members are among the strongest aspects of Innoviz.
“I come from a small unit but we’re developing very unique hardware and technology – it’s like if MIT had an army,” he said.
Keilaf and his partners are accustomed to tight deadlines, a hallmark of the automotive industry. In the military, his team would often get assigned difficult projects with very narrow, non-negotiable deadlines. A particular technology would need to be developed from scratch, in about eight to ten months, be incredibly reliable, and need to work effectively for many years thereafter. It’s an experience the Innoviz team is bringing to the table in their vision for not only LiDAR, but automated driving as a whole.
“You had to manage risk all the time because in the end there is a date you can’t miss; you had to manage sometimes hundreds of people working on a certain project, and all of them needed to see something at the end that works perfectly,” Keilaf explained. “I think this is the way we work in Innoviz. Although we have so many moving parts and many people working with different technologies, every one of us is synchronized and integrated into a very disciplined and reliable system.”
Photo: Innoviz Technologies.
Bright Future
Recently, Innoviz raised $65 million in Series B funding with strategic partners Delphi Automotive PLC and Magna International participating in the round. The latest investors included 360 Capital Partners, Glory Ventures, Naver, and others. All Series A investors, including Zohar Zisapel, Vertex Venture Capital, Magma Venture Partners, Amiti Ventures, and Delek Motors participated as well. A second closing of this round is expected soon with additional investors.
“Innoviz has delivered the industry’s first high-performance LiDAR solution that perfectly meets all of the requirements necessary to take fully autonomous vehicles mainstream,” said Nicolas Autret, Partner at 360 Capital Partners. “Based on the impressive adoption Innoviz has generated to date and the extremely talented team they’ve put together, it’s evident that the market has made its decision on who is going to win the LiDAR race and unlock the market’s vast potential.”
The company’s trajectory is significant and its direction both purposeful and promising. In December 2016, Innoviz announced its first partnership with leading automotive supplier, Magna International Inc., enabling them to collaborate on various OEM programs. In May 2017, Innoviz announced a partnership with manufacturing company Jabil Optics to mass produce InnovizPro. In August 2017, Innoviz signed a commercial partnership agreement with Delphi, a leader in autonomous driving software and sensors, to integrate its LiDAR into Delphi’s systems and create an industry standard for LiDAR integration into autonomous cars.
And now the most recent news of $65 million in Series B funding.
“While other LiDAR companies remain in the research and development stage, Innoviz is moving into mass production with LiDAR technology that delivers superior performance and affordability in a compact and reliable design,” said Zohar Zisapel, Investor, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board at Innoviz.

Innoviz Technologies demonstrating their LiDAR solution at AutoSens Detroit, May 2017. Photo: Carl Anthony for Automoblog.net.



Homeward Bound

I first met Keilaf at AutoSens Detroit back in May. I took a liking to him and Innoviz right away. It’s the type of company – the type of people – you want to see be successful. In my work in the automotive industry, I travel quite often and I am fortunate enough to meet many interesting people, Keilaf among them. He travels often too and that warm May day in Michigan, he was away from his family as he presented Innoviz at AutoSens.
“They are very supportive,” he said. “It’s a lot of effort and sweat but it’s fun and they understand.”
When I am describing ADAS features to a consumer, I still use my “eyes” analogy. Yet, after seeing what Innoviz can do, I have a new appreciation for my trusty description. I remain confident, before long, I will be presenting an autonomous car to a consumer equipped with an Innoviz system. I will likely smile and remember Keilaf and his team when I first met them.
“Israel is a very unique place and you should come visit,” he told me in Detroit. “In just five days you will be able to discover many things.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 




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2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD Review

2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD Review


Mazda’s ad slogan “Driving Matters” is meant to define what their cars are about, and it fits the newly-redesigned CX-5 crossover. The CX-5 is a driver-focused vehicle meant to deliver a different experience than your average small SUV. We think it offers a more satisfying experience than its chief rivals, the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
And if looks have anything to do with it, we think it wins in exterior styling too.
What’s New For 2017
The Mazda CX-5 crossover has been completely redesigned for 2017, with a quieter, better looking cabin, and a more stylish exterior. Though it hasn’t grown in size, it offers a smoother, quieter ride. If you want a manual gearbox, you will be disappointed, as that was dropped in favor of a six-speed automatic. Mazda says the 2.5-liter engine has been tweaked and retuned for 2017.
Features & Options
The 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD ($30,695) comes with acoustic front windows, power driver’s seat, heated front seats, a better six-speaker sound system, rear USB ports, and blind-spot monitors. It also features keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The vehicle also receives additional driver assistance features like blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and mitigation, lane keeping assist, and automatic high beams.
Grand Touring models add leather and 19-inch wheels to the above. The Premium Package ($1,830) adds a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a heads-up display, power front passenger seat, and windshield wiper de-icer. Total MSRP including destination: $34,380.





Interior Highlights
This CX-5 Grand Touring interior takes a step forward and the changes are evident with the leather seating and stitching on the dash, console, and door panels. The quality of materials is excellent for this price point. The cabin is driver-focused with a new steering wheel, while the shift lever is moved back two inches, making for a more natural position for the driver’s hand.
The 7-inch touchscreen resolution is sharper in 2017. It sits high atop the stylish dash, but it’s a bit too far away for our liking. There’s also an infotainment controller in the center console with a radio volume control knob that’s easy to find without taking your eyes off the road. The seats are comfortable and offer plenty of adjustments and support for long-distance driving. The steering wheel also offers a nice range of tilt-and-telescoping positions.
This week we took a couple of six-foot gentlemen to lunch, and they commented on how there seems to be more shoulder room in the rear, likely due to the CX-5’s slightly wider track. The rear doors open wide, so they had no trouble entering and exiting the crossover. And thanks to scalloping in the back of the front seats, there was plenty of legroom for our riders.
If you need to carry cargo, the 40/20/40-split folding backseat reclines, another new feature for 2017. Behind the rear seat, there’s 31 cubic feet of cargo storage, and 60 with the rear folded flat. It’s a bit less than competitors, including the Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester.







Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The revised 2.5-liter engine is tweaked a bit and produces 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft. of torque. It comes mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission. Our tester came with Mazda’s all-wheel drive system for all-weather capability. EPA fuel mileage estimates are 23/29 city/highway and 26 combined with all-wheel drive.
Driving Dynamics
We think the CX-5 is higher on the fun-to-drive meter than any other crossover out there. We drove this week in the mountains west of Denver where this journalist lives, and the CX-5 delivered a most satisfying experience. We tossed the CX-5 around the tight curves and it responded like a sports sedan.
The steering is precise, and the suspension is tuned for sporty driving over comfort. Be aware, the CX-5 is not going to win any races. The crossover has enough power for most driving situations, but was fairly tame when we pushed it hard up I-70. The naturally aspirated engine could use a turbo for those traveling up into the high country or hauling extra cargo over a high mountain pass. For normal commuting, you won’t have an issue.
One big difference we noticed for 2017 is the new-found quiet in the cabin when we got underway. It’s not as quiet as a Lexus, but it’s much improved when we pushed the pedal, especially at highway speeds. Overall, it’s the most fun we’ve ever had in a compact crossover, having tested the competition. If you live where there’s lots of twisty roads, this is the vehicle for you.
Conclusion
The redesigned 2017 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD nails it in driving dynamics, a comfortable, driver-focused interior, and exterior styling. The cabin is quieter than the outgoing model, which was the biggest complaint with the CX-5. If you like to drive, this crossover delivers a different, more pleasurable experience than your average small SUV.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Mazda CX-5 Gallery























We trust Edmunds.com to give us the best, up to date, and TRUE pricing of what people are really paying for their cars. Get a free dealer quote at Edmunds on this car:


2017 Mazda CX-5 Official Site.
Photos: Mazda North American Operations.



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Mercedes-Benz Shows Glimpse of Future Sprinter

Mercedes-Benz Shows Glimpse of Future Sprinter

During the North American Commercial Vehicle Show in Atlanta, Georgia this week, Mercedes-Benz released a design sketch showing the dimensions, proportions, and overall styling of the new Sprinter. The automaker says the new Sprinter “once again shifts the boundaries of its segment” and that it represents the “acclaimed design language of Mercedes-Benz.”
Perhaps the new Sprinter’s most notable features are found right up front? The hood and grille look smoother and more sculpted when compared to current Sprinter models.
Tech Focused
The new Sprinter will have an array of driver assistance packages and connectivity features. A new Telematics system promises a number of benefits for fleet managers. Mercedes-Benz also notes the “considerably extended range of variants” will be better poised to meet the needs and demands of the van market.
“We want to offer the most suitable mobility solution for every sector and for every transport assignment,” explained Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. “And that is precisely our focus with the upcoming Sprinter generation as an overall system solution.”
Budding Market
The United States is now the second-largest market for Sprinters just behind Germany. To meet rising demand in the U.S., Mercedes-Benz is building a new Sprinter plant in North Charleston, South Carolina and says the facility will reduce delivery times for North American customers. Mercedes-Benz will also assemble the next-generation Sprinter in Dusseldorf and Ludwigsfelde in Germany.
The Sprinter was born in 1995 and is now one of the most commercially successful vans. To date, there have been more than 3.3 million units delivered to over 130 countries. During the first half of 2017, Sprinter set a new record in total sales, increasing to about 96,200 units versus 95,100 for the same period a year ago. The new Sprinter will arrive in Europe during the first half of 2018 with other markets to follow.
“It also goes without saying that the new edition of our iconic van possesses the classical attributes of reliability, safety, and cost-effectiveness,” Mornhinweg said.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 
Sketch & Source: MBUSA.



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2020 Mazda CX-3 Redesign, Review, Price

2020 Mazda CX-3 Redesign, Review, Price

CX crossover from Mazda indeed has become the most cars in the notice, the quality of the design and some great features on this car does indeed have made this car is getting very good. 2020 Mazda CX-3 as its going to get a lot of redesigns, Mazda as its been very ready to take out his product. rumors circulating this car will be present at the beginning of the year 2020.

Model CX-made Mazda is indeed one of the most widely their products get the attention. Lots of rumors circulating about when the car is in release and what price will be available for this car. Some rivals of this car like the Subaru Crosstrek will also be preparing for the release, Toyota’s C-HR and Chevrolet Trax Central may also prepare.

2020 Mazda CX-3 Interior and Exterior

New Interior of 2020 Mazda CX-3 is going to be quite good outfitted with numerous fascinating and handsome functions, which make driving an entertaining as well as comfy expertise. The surfaces of the interior will include substantial high-quality leather and metallic panels are going to be colored likewise and covering of seats might be outstanding at the same time. Other prominent capabilities of your motor vehicle contain Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone integration, World-wide-web radio and so forth. The enjoyment, as well as navigation, is going to be managed by touchscreen show together with dial controller. The exterior might be wise and classy and it’s been built to include very best and most sophisticated aerodynamic attributes.

The new exterior redesign with the 2020 Mazda CX-3 will probably be influenced through the Kai idea, whilst there ought to be layout aspects of the Vision Coupe idea, as well. Nevertheless, nothing at all is certain right up until we see the real prototype, that will happen during the coming months with no any doubt. The redesigned crossover need to be ready by the finish on the subsequent year, and this means that the carmaker needs to start off with testing quickly, so keep tuned for updates.

Engine Performance

The 2020 Mazda CX-3 is powered by a Skyactive-X engine. It’s a capacity of 2.0-liters and churns out 180 hp and 170 lb-ft (pound-feet) of torque. This engine has built-in spark managed compression-ignition technological innovation. As such, its fuel consumption is diminished by up to 30%.

The engine delivers power towards the wheels as a result of a 6-speed guide transmission. Drivers also have the solution of a torque-converter automated transmission.

Release date and Price

There has been no official information regarding the release date and price for 2020 Mazda CX-3. We strongly believe that this car will be present at the beginning of the year 2020. Rumors circulating also said that this car will come at the end of next year. Much speculation circulating about this car. But we recommend that you wait for the official information from Mazda.

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Best Time To Buy A Car? The Holiday Season Might Be One

Best Time To Buy A Car? The Holiday Season Might Be One When is the best time to buy a car? Should you wait until the end of the year? 
Data over the last few years suggests November and December are the best months.
However, don’t believe everything you hear just yet. 
Brace yourself. The holidays are coming. Extended hours, big savings, and hordes of ambitious shoppers camping out (literally) at the front of the line. While clothes, games, and electronics are often top of mind, what about a larger purchase like an automobile? Do Black Friday and Christmas deals exist on cars?
What about this time of year in general? Is it really the best time to buy a car?  Conventional wisdom says yes but we talked with the experts for a consensus. There are a few things to consider before shopping for a car this holiday season.
Pre-Owned Cars: November & December Are Prime Times
Black Friday is a great day for pre-owned vehicle shoppers, according to a study last year by iSeeCars.com. The iSeeCars.com team analyzed over 48 million one- to five-year-old pre-owned sales from January 2013 through December 2016 to determine when the best deals were offered.
A “deal” was defined as a savings of at least five percent.
“We found that holidays in November and December, and consequently the months of November and December, offer more deals than you would expect to typically find on an average day,” explained Phong Ly, Chief Executive Officer, iSeeCars.com.
Overall, based on the percentage of deals offered, November is the best month, with pre-owned car shoppers receiving 38.4 percent more deals on average. December (38.2 percent more deals) is close behind. By comparison, October comes in at 16.7 percent, January at 19.9 percent, and February at 4.8 percent.
May was the worst month, with 28.3 percent fewer deals on average.
“While Memorial Day and July 4th have associations with car sales and better deals, that doesn’t seem to hold for used car sales,” Ly said. “We found fewer deals than average on those holidays, and the months from late spring through summer are generally not great for finding used car deals.”
According to iSeeCars.com, the Cadillac CTS is one of the best bargains for shoppers seeking a pre-owned luxury vehicle. Photo: General Motors.
New Vehicles: Black Friday Tops Cyber Monday
Last year, the November Dealer DataView index found dealerships see an increase in web traffic during the fall months. Their report says the extra web activity may usher in a “relatively robust selling climate” as dealerships prepare for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Dealertrack data from 2016 found a near 40 percent rise in credit applications on Black Friday compared to other Fridays in November. That suggests dealerships likely prioritize Black Friday. By comparison, Cyber Monday registered only a 2.6 percent growth in credit applications versus other Mondays in November 2016.
“At the beginning of November, we saw a number of dealers and automakers launch Black Friday and holiday promotional events – the famous red bows came out – as they do every year as a way to close out the year on a high note,” said Michelle Krebs, Executive Analyst, Autotrader.
Those who need a new vehicle but want to maximize their savings should consider a 2018 model.
“Between now and the end of the year, consumers will find excellent prices and more negotiating room on leftovers,” Krebs explained. “Automakers and dealers do whatever it takes to clear out the previous year’s inventory before the start of the new year.”
Related: How the internet changes car buying.
Generally speaking, the best time to buy a car is near the end of the year. Factory rebates and dealer discounts are often better. However, the selection may not be as great. Photo: Michael Gaida.
Due Diligence: Ask Questions & Verify
Always verify – through an independent mechanic if necessary – the overall condition of any pre-owned vehicle. Ask about key maintenance items like brakes, tires, belts, and the battery. When were they last changed, or if not changed recently, what are the current measurements for the brakes and tires. Another good question to ask is warranty: is there still a balance of the factory warranty, or does the dealer offer any type of after-sale warranty.
“Used cars can look good but still have problems that could be expensive to fix,” said Brandon Grade, Service Advisor at Findlay Toyota in Las Vegas, Nevada. “Personally, I try and steer people towards a certified pre-owned vehicle that comes with a warranty.”
Related: Financing versus leasing: which one is right for you.
Due Diligence: Don’t Believe Everything You See
Those big inflatable gorillas and “Sales Event” banners? They may only be there for show.
“The deals this time of year are pretty good, but prices specifically on Black Friday are about the same as they are the week before or the week after,” Krebs explained. “Automakers and dealers simply try to ride the wave of the shopping frenzy created by Black Friday.”
“Don’t assume because it’s Black Friday that every car from every dealer is discounted,” Ly added.
Always read the fine print – or as we say in the business – follow the asterisk to the bottom of the page. Those brightly-bolded low payments might be subjected to certain terms and conditions. In the case of a lease, those flashy low payments are only achieved with significant down payment. And sometimes, the advertised car with the best deal is actually the lower trim level.
Keep in mind seasonal factors too. For example, 4×4 trucks and SUVs can command higher premiums during winter months, similar to how convertible sports cars can in the summer.
Related: Most common car repairs by season.

Further Advice
If you need more advice on the buying process or insight on a particular model, please contact us. iSeeCars.com also provides this handy video on questions you should ask at the dealership. Overall, the holiday season is likely the best time to buy a car but just be careful.
“Just because there are more deals offered on Black Friday doesn’t mean the general rules of thumb about buying a car don’t apply,” Ly said. “Doing online research ahead of time, figuring out your budget, test-driving the car, and getting it inspected by an independent mechanic are still important.”
And above all? Trust your gut.
“If it seems too good to be true, there’s most likely something wrong so stay away,” Grade said. “Don’t be afraid to walk away.”
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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