Automotive

Letter From The UK: An Autonomous Fairy Story

Letter From The UK: An Autonomous Fairy Story
Between these very virtual pages you will find dissent. Some esteemed colleagues are looking toward a bright new autonomous future, forged in the white heat of automotive technology. Others, like road knights of old, prefer the six-speed stick shift on the floor and two human eyes on the road ahead. I am firmly in the old-school group. Fortunately, in this regard at least, I am a couple of thousand miles away from the heart of Automoblog and the futurists can’t get to me.
Survey Says
Right now the autonomous lobby has the floor. With all the recent announcements – including one every five minutes from Elon Musk (who I firmly believe is actually Ernst Stavro Blofeld in disguise) about the massive investments in driverless cars, it is nice to know there is one company that, in a way, sides with me. Mazda.
This is an auto outfit that plays by its own rules. They make some good cars and they don’t seem to be swayed by trends particularly. The Japanese car giant believes that driving is an ability people want to keep. As any gearhead will tell you, it is a skill that can be fun as well as functional, and many motorists don’t want to lose it and find themselves in a convoy of conveyances all chattering away to each other and getting nowhere fast.
A survey across the European Union commissioned by Mazda has shown quite clearly a very large majority of drivers still want to drive themselves, even with self-driving technology available. In fact, a scant 29 percent actively welcome the arrival of autonomous vehicles. This flies in the face of all that we are told. I’m not paranoid (although I am pretty sure they are on my case) but it indicates to me a sense that, in order to gain total control over the roads, governments would rather like us to believe that this technology will save us from ourselves.
Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
Safety First
Many think as I do that auto technology should act, at best, as an aid to safety, available when needed to avoid accidents but with the driver in control of the driving process. This keeps the exhilaration of the act and retains the freedom of the road. Much of this technology is already here and available on our cars anyway. Subaru’s “Eyesight” for example, is brilliant. Most of us have no objection to an extension of this if it saves lives. What gets to folk is the “hands off” approach we are being encouraged to accept. I truly doubt experienced drivers will readily relinquish control to this level.
One surprising aspect of the Mazda survey is how there is no evidence of greater support for self-driving cars in any younger age demographic across Europe generally. For research purposes, the age groups were split: 18 to 24, 25 to 34, and 35 to 44. No group stood out in favor, when it is usual for youth to be more readily accepting of new technology. What does that tell you? Driving is about much more than just getting from A to B. There is danger that simply going for a drive, like Frank Zappa cruising for burgers just for the hell of it, could become a forgotten pleasure.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
What Does The Future Portend?
Of course, I am maybe getting a little ahead of events. Although there is a powerfully global and by-and-large well-meaning lobby for the drive to driverless, it seems to me the reality of it is still a long way off. Sure, there are public road tests underway but I can’t see it coming to fruition in this decade. There are just too many variables on our roads, and the one thing autonomous technology does not have that we puny humans still possess is that sixth sense; that sixth sense that all is not well. Any practised driver will tell you this.
It is even possible to envisage a scenario whereby car manufacturers will quit the research while they’re ahead on the basis that, ultimately, it simply won’t be worth their while. Mazda clearly isn’t sure. I wonder.
In the official, authoritarian world that dislikes the idea of driving for pleasure and debases the role of the car in our family lives, the question has to be asked of autonomous, or indeed any other technology: just because they can, have they stopped to think whether they should?
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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These New Guinness World Records Set By BMW Are Pretty Cool

These New Guinness World Records Set By BMW Are Pretty Cool Here’s something you don’t see very often! On December 11th, 2017, BMW driving instructor Johan Schwartz drifted an all-new BMW M5 sedan 232.5 miles around a skid pad at the BMW Performance Center in Greer, South Carolina. The feat, not surprisingly, set a new Guinness World Records title, under the category of “greatest distance vehicle drift in 8 hours.” Schwartz surpassed the prior record by over 140 miles.
A second Guinness World Records title for the “longest twin vehicle drift (water assisted)” was also set.
Another Shot
Schwartz has been here before, setting the Guinness World Records title for the “longest continuous vehicle drift” on May 11th, 2013. That day, he drifted an unmodified 2013 BMW M5 sedan for 51.278 miles but his record was broken shortly thereafter. However, Schwartz was determined to give it another shot, but not without some serious engineering. BMW teamed with Detroit Speed to develop a unique dry break fuel system, capable of refueling the M5 mid-drift.
“We knew if we were going to recapture the world record for longest sustained drift and set the bar as high as possible, we would need to find a way to keep the M5 going without stopping to refuel,” Schwartz explained.

Fighter Jet Formula
The fuel system’s design mimics how fighter jets and other airplanes refuel in the air. On five occasions during the eight hour drift, a previous generation M5, similar to the one Schwartz used to set his original record, entered the skid pad. BMW Performance Center Chief Driving Instructor Matt Mullins matched Schwartz’s drift, while Detroit Speed’s Matt Butts handled refueling. Butts, suspended with a safety tether from the second vehicle’s rear window, was able to straddle the space between both vehicles and complete the refueling.
“Although we practiced the refueling several times before the Guinness World Records title attempt, there was very little margin for error,” Butts recalled. “We’re excited to have played a part in Johan and BMW recapturing this record.”
“In the end, the refueling system worked flawlessly and the M5 performed as expected,” Schwartz added.
Once the first Guinness World Records title was secured, BMW then landed the record for the “longest twin vehicle drift (water assisted)” – that record being co-owned by Schwartz and Mullins.
“It was a big win all around,” Schwartz said.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.

Photos & Source: BMW of North America.

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2018 Ford F-150 Power Stroke Diesel By The Numbers

2018 Ford F-150 Power Stroke Diesel By The Numbers Race tracks are interesting places. You’d think all the conversations would be about race cars, but that’s not usually the case. Normally, you’re only talking about the race cars when they’re in the paddock or the race is going on. Surprisingly, once the cars are out on track, the paddock conversation usually turns to things of a much more prosaic nature: where’s a good restaurant, so-and-so got a new RV, and the number one topic of conversation, tow vehicles.
Power & Performance
You might think dyed-in-the-wool track rats wouldn’t care about trucks all that much, but they are vitally important. So when Ford says their new F-150 with the Power Stroke diesel can haul 2,020 lbs. of payload and drag 11,400 lbs. of trailer, race car, and spares up and over a mountain pass, I know a bunch of busted-knuckle, speed-addicted, unwashed gearheads are going to be very excited. This will be the first-ever F-150 Power Stroke diesel, expected to get an EPA-estimated 30 mpg on the highway.
Ford is not even close to joking around with their new F-150, as both the above figures for payload and towing are best-in-class. And the new Power Stroke has best-in-class power figures at 250 horsepower and a stump-pulling 440 lb-ft. of torque. The F-150’s Power Stroke diesel has the same engine technology as the Super Duty’s larger 6.7-liter Power Stroke. All of that peak torque comes at a low-low 1,750 rpm, with a pretty much pool-table-flat torque curve on up through the rpm range.
The new V6 diesel has the same compacted-graphite iron block and forged-steel crank found in the 2.7-liter EcoBoost for added strength, durability, and weight reduction (Ford is on a big time weight loss kick these days). Engine response is up and turbo lag is down thanks to a high-efficiency, variable-geometry turbocharger. A common-rail fuel injection system further optimizes performance and overall efficiency, while the high-pressure (29,000 PSI!) injection system enables smoother, quieter operation with reduced emissions. Dual fuel filters were added for improved break-in, and a cast-aluminum oil pan and two-stage oil pump are utilized to reduce parasitic loss and further improve fuel efficiency.
Ford conducted testing along the Davis Dam in Arizona. The Power Stroke F-150 trucks climbed 13 miles at a 6 percent grade in temperatures in excess of 100 degrees. They were required to maintain a consistent power output during the tests. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Towing & Transmission
Now, about all that towing capacity. According to Ford, a lot of it flows from the high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body they introduced in 2015. Dropping 700 lbs. of overall weight allows the addition of cool tech that improves towing and payload capability, as well as giving you greater fuel economy. FoMoCo also tweaked such ancillary items, like adding a mechanical, engine-driven fan and dual radiator shutters for better high-temperature and high-altitude performance.
The F-150 engine control system backs off the fan load in more moderate driving and towing conditions through a viscous coupler, closing down the two radiator shutters for improved aerodynamic efficiency and reduced parasitic engine loss. Ford says owners will notice more power, even in harsh conditions, with this design.
“We know that competing diesels with electric cooling fans have to dial back on power under extreme heat and altitude, so we decided on a viscous-controlled mechanical fan that has the capacity to move much more air across the radiator and intercooler in extreme conditions,” explained David Ives, Ford Diesel Engine Technical Specialist.
Transmission-wise, the 3.0-liter Power Stroke diesel is mated to a standard SelectShift 10-speed automatic. Ford says it maximizes shift points and the gear ratios allow for optimal power, low-rpm torque, and greater overall efficiency. The transmission even allows you to non-sequentially select the right gear ratio too.

Availability & Configurations
Ford dealers are taking orders now with deliveries beginning this spring. Final fuel economy estimates will also come this spring. Retail customers can choose the Power Stroke engine option on Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum edition SuperCrew trucks, with either a 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot bed, or in a SuperCab truck with a 6.5-foot bed. The engine is available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations as well.
So look at that, you can haul the entire team – crew, (long suffering) significant others, fans – and take your cars and all your spares to the track in one nice, comfy package.
Interested? Of course you’re interested. How else are you going to tow your Formula Vee from Schenectady to Heartland Park?
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.
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.

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Volkswagen, NVIDIA Showcase Deep Learning Vehicle Platform At CES

Volkswagen, NVIDIA Showcase Deep Learning Vehicle Platform At CES
It looks like Volkswagen is serious about all the stuff they’ve been saying. Yes, there will be a new minibus. Yes, they are going EV in a big way. Yes, they are very serious about technology integration. After the disaster – financial, reputation-wise and such – that was dieselgate, VW knows they have to turn things around, and from this year’s CES show in Las Vegas, they fired the first shot.
The brief sketch here is that Volkswagen and NVIDIA (the company that makes really hot graphics cards for your gaming rig) have teamed up to work lots of AI into VW’s future vehicle lineup. Specifically, VW and NVIDIA are using AI tech for “co-pilot capabilities.”
Creating A Buzz
The companies shared their vision for how AI will form a new generation of “intelligent” Volkswagen vehicles at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show. Further, for those diehard gearheads that don’t really care about hgh-tech stuff (you know who you are, the ones with grease permanently under your fingernails), VW decided to push this future vision by showing how it will integrate into the new I.D. BUZZ, the re-do of the iconic MicroBus. The I.D. BUZZ, which is aimed straight at hipsters, eco-focused moms, Trustafarians and the like, will be a full-on electric vehicle, permeated with AI technology. It will also be self-driving.
VW calls their AI system for the I.D. BUZZ (I so hope they lose that name before it rolls out) the Intelligent Co-Pilot. The Intelligent Co-Pilot will include convenience and driver assistance systems, and process sensor data from both inside and outside the vehicle. Intelligent Co-Pilot can also be enhanced throughout the life of the vehicle via software updates, just like your smartphone. VW and NVIDIA say deep learning will enable the I.D. BUZZ to accurately assess situations and analyze the behavior of others on the road, so it can “make the right decisions.” This sounds like a nice, preemptive way of saying “it won’t crash all that much.”
Volkswagen I.D. Buzz Concept. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Fully Electric, Zero Emissions
It turns out that NVIDIA has already worked on systems like this, meaning this is not just some random corporate cross-promotion or activation to ruin our lives further. NVIDIA is building on their NVIDIA DRIVE IX Intelligent Experience platform. That’s an AI-enabled system with goodies like facial recognition for unlocking the vehicle, driver alerts for bicycles, gesture recognition, natural language understanding for voice control, and “gaze tracking” for driver distraction alerts.
And of course, everybody is talking about autonomous driving and VW and NVIDIA are in on the party. Not only will the I.D. BUZZ launch VW’s electric car operations, it is also the platform they will use to gradually introduce autonomous driving, starting in 2020. VW, seeing the writing on the wall (i.e. diesel is all-but-dead, efficiency must go up, and emissions must drop to zero before 25 percent of the world drowns etc.) is planning on more than 20 fully electric vehicles by 2025.
Solid Foundations
These new VW models are based on the MEB architecture and focused on zero emissions and digital mobility. The MEB architecture will also be beneficial for packaging the different components so they don’t compromise interior room. For example, by using a battery that is integrated flat in the chassis floor, and a compact drive system, the VW vehicles are expected to offer a spacious and flexible interior.
VW is so in love with the MEB system they say it will also be used for vehicles with conventional drive layouts. All of the VWs based on the MEB architecture are expected to offer the latest driver assistance systems as a way to pave the way for autonomous driving, naturally.
“Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the car,” said Dr. Herbert Diess, Chief Executive Officer, Volkswagen. “Autonomous driving, zero tailpipe emission mobility, and digital networking are virtually impossible without advances in AI and deep learning.”
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.
Photos & Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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Chevy To Reveal Silverado Class 4 & 5 Trucks In March

Chevy To Reveal Silverado Class 4 & 5 Trucks In March Chevrolet will reveal the new Silverado Class 4 and 5 chassis cab trucks at The Work Truck Show 2018, set for March in Indianapolis, Indiana. The event, produced by The Association for the Work Truck Industry, is the largest of its kind in North America, and a fitting venue for Chevrolet to make their announcement. This year, more than 11,000 truck fleet operators, dealers, and equipment distributors are expected at the Indiana Convention Center for the show.
Configurations
The forthcoming Silverado medium-duty trucks will be available in regular or crew cab, and in either a two-wheel or four-wheel drive layout. There are different GVWR capacities and wheelbases to accommodate the wide range of use scenarios the trucks are likely to see. Perhaps not surprising is the appearance of the Duramax engine and Allison transmission, a combination Chevrolet has used for going on 20 years. Although power figures have not been released for the medium-duty Silverado, the current L5P Duramax puts out 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft. of torque.
The medium-duty Silverado will come with OnStar and built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi. Fleet managers can take advantage of additional tools, including a number of telematic solutions. Ed Peper, U.S. Vice President, General Motors Fleet, explained how the Silverado 4500 and 5500 will be the top models in GM’s commercial truck portfolio.
“We’ve designed them to be among the best in the industry in maneuverability, serviceability, visibility, quietness and comfort, diesel fuel economy, and more,” he said.
In Person
The Work Truck Show runs March 6th through the 9th and full product specs will be given during that time. The medium-duty Silverado will enter production near the end of the year.
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 Toyota 4Runner 4X4 TRD Premium Review

2018 Toyota 4Runner 4X4 TRD Premium Review
While most families won’t take their SUVs off-pavement, the 2018 Toyota 4Runner is a vehicle for serious recreation that will get you away from civilization. The 4X4 TRD Off-Road trim offers up a bit more attitude and comfort than the standard model. It’s a rare breed that doesn’t fit the typical SUV/crossover mold. It will thrive in mud, snow, dirt, and steep, rocky adverse terrains.
If it sounds too rugged for you, think again. This weekend, we drove the 2018 Toyota 4Runner 4×4 TRD Off-Road Premium. It was as comfortable as it was capable.
What’s New For 2018
The 2018 4Runner has a few different options and packages, but otherwise carries over from 2017 unchanged.
Features & Options
The 2018 Toyota 4Runner 4×4 TRD Off-Road Premium ($39,495) comes with lots of standard features. It has skid plates, fog lights, a backup camera, keyless entry, five 12-volt power outlets, and a 120-volt AC power outlet. Stepping up to this trim adds some serious off-road goodies in the form of a locking rear differential, wheels that are 0.5 inches wider, and a crawl control function.
Premium variants of the TRD Off-Road get power-adjustable and heated outside mirrors, premium vinyl upholstery, navigation, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Our tester came with the optional KDSS suspension ($1,750), sliding rear cargo deck ($350), and power moonroof with a sunshade ($850). Total MSRP including destination: $42,690.

Interior Highlights
Families are choosing the Toyota 4Runner for sporting events, school activities, and runs to the grocery store and shopping mall. Even though it looks rugged and has the ability to get you away from civilization, the interior offers a comfort zone for families to travel in relaxation. The TRD Off-Road Premium offers a soft side that doesn’t match the 4Runner’s aggressive exterior and off-road character. The cabin is attractive and comes with easy-to-clean premium vinyl upholstery, heated front seats, and a power sliding rear window.
The dash is nicely arranged and the instrument panel is simple and easy to read and understand. The view from the driver’s seat is commanding becasue the 4Runner sits up higher than the average SUV and crossover. The disadvantage is that it’s harder to get in and out, unless you have the optional running boards. An extra 3 inches of step-up height is the price you pay for extra rock and ground clearance. The standard reverse camera is also a plus because rear visibility is limited.
There’s enough head and legroom for taller adults up front, and the rear seats offer similar headroom. There is a bit less legroom in the backseat, but tall passengers still fit easily. The large cargo area is quite functional, and the rear seatbacks fold flat. It’s easy to pack the sizable cargo hold with 88.8 available cubic feet with the seats down, and 46.3 cubic feet with the seats up. The cargo area is quite versatile, especially when equipped with the optional sliding rear cargo deck.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Toyota 4Runner is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft. of torque. It’s mated to a five-speed automatic transmission and rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs. EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 17/20 city/highway and 18 combined.
Driving Dynamics
This 4Runner’s real strength lies in its ability perform off-pavement. It’s designed for families who want to get into the back country and away from the city. 4Runner is a rare breed – its body-on-frame construction gives it a ruggedness and tolerance for extreme off-roading. While many families might not take their SUVs off-road, they may want a tough vehicle that will handle extreme weather. This one offers a level of safety and confidence that most crossovers won’t when the going gets slick and icy.
The 4Runner does have descent pick-up when you need the power for getting up to highway speeds quickly. It also has enough climbing power for traveling up long grades and getting over the mountain passes at altitude. It’s not the most powerful engine in the class, but it gets the job done in most driving situations. Throttle response is smooth and continuous, and the five-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly. Although, we did wish for another gear as we traveled up I-70 into the mountains.
Another drawback here is how fuel mileage suffers with the extra weight, and it won’t corner like a typical family crossover either. It’s stable in the corners, for the most part, but it does have some body lean because of its extra ground clearance. For those wanting a true off-road vehicle, the 4Runner comes with part-time four-wheel drive, crawl control, active traction control, and a rear locking differential. Our tester had the optional KDSS suspension that automatically disconnects both stabilizer bars when maximum articulation is needed. We could see this being beneficial for families during the winter.
Conclusion
The 2018 Toyota 4Runner 4X4 TRD Off-Road Premium is comfy inside, with enough room for growing families and their cargo. While the 4Runner can handle weekly activities, the real strength of this SUV is its off-road and all-weather prowess.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Toyota 4Runner Gallery

2018 Toyota 4Runner Official Site.
Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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2018 VW Golf TSI SE Review: Convenient For The Commute

2018 VW Golf TSI SE Review: Convenient For The Commute Urban dwellers looking for a sporty compact hatch have a number of options, but none are more agile than the Volkswagen Golf. For under $25,000 the Golf TSI SE comes with added standard features, a new infotainment system, and extra safety technology.
Over the weekend, we drove the 2018 Volkswagen Golf TSI SE to see if it’s a good fit for your driving needs.
What’s New For 2018
The Golf Wolfsburg Edition and SEL trim have been discontinued, but the SE trim we drove this weekend is new. The base S and SE get mildly revised styling, a few more standard features, and new infotainment systems.
For the 2018 model year, you get more standard features, including smartphone integration, LED running lights and taillights, automatic headlights and wipers, and a new eight-inch infotainment touchscreen.

Features & Options
The 2018 Volkswagen Golf TSI SE ($23,655) comes standard with halogen headlights, LED daytime-running lights and taillights, automatic rain-sensing wipers, heated side mirrors, and 15-inch alloy wheels. Inside, you get a leather-wrapped steering wheel, manually adjustable seats with lumbar support and power recline, and a rearview camera.
The infotainment system is upgraded with the eight-inch touchscreen that adds a CD player and satellite radio, along with VW’s Security & Service app. It also comes with Bluetooth and USB connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an eight-speaker sound system.
The top-trim SE upgrades to simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, and keyless entry with push-button start. You also get blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
Total MSRP including destination: $24,970. By comparison, the 2018 VW Golf S with a five-speed manual starts at $20,910.
Related: VW Passat: fun, fuel efficient, and simple. Here is our full review.

Interior Highlights
There’s plenty of soft touch materials throughout to make it comfortable, and we would describe it as distinctly European. The SE trim adds a bit more comfort with simulated leather upholstery and heated front seats. The seats provide ample support and comfort for longer trips in the compact hatchback. There’s a handy bin ahead of the shifter, perfect for a smartphone.
The power-reclining front seats offer up the perfect driving position for a compact hatch. The rear seats offer plenty of room for average-sized adults and are comfy for longer trips. There’s ample head and shoulder room too, thanks to the higher hatch roof. There’s also a convenient folding rear armrest/cupholder with a pass-through to the back.
Behind the rear seats, this compact hatch comes with 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space, easily accessible through the rear lift gate. With the seats folded flat, it offers up 52.7 cubic feet of space.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2018 VW Golf TSI SE comes with a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder, producing an ample 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque. It comes mated with a five-speed manual sending power to the front wheels.
EPA fuel economy estimates are 25/34 city/highway and 29 combined with the manual gearbox. Fuel economy is a strong point of the Golf, although there are others in the segment that rank higher.

The TSI accelerates quickly as the turbo spools.Click To TweetDriving Dynamics
The 2018 VW Golf is fun to drive in the city. We easily moved around slower traffic and vsibility is excellent for a small hatch. We then chucked it around the tight corners on our commute from the mountains west of Denver where the TSI feels right at home. The hatch’s steering and braking are responsive enough in the curves.
The standard five-speed manual has short shifts and works well with the turbo engine. It has plenty of power for all driving situations and is sportier than most other small hatchbacks. There was enough power to spin the front wheels when we hit the gas hard coming out of a corner.
When pushed, the TSI accelerates quickly as the turbo spools up to utilize every bit of the available 170 horsepower.
Conclusion
The 2018 VW Golf TSI SE is a fun hatch that’s also practical. There’s a lot to like and we would recommend it for those wanting a fuel-efficient and fun commuter.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 VW Golf Gallery

Photos: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
*Additional models shown.

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2020 Lexus ES 350 Redesign, Release Date, Price

One of the terrific sedans will again present in the year 2020, 2020 Lexus ES 350 will be one car that was central in prepare to welcome the year 2020 Lexus, a lot of news circulating about this car but you need to remember that information is circulated about this car is it’s only a rumor. We also had the rumor about 2020 information Lexus ES 350 starts from a redesign of the information, the approximate release date, and price.

2020 Lexus ES 350

Rumors circulating this car will be a hybrid engine wear but it’s only limited to rumors we also do not have information about whether the 2020 Lexus ES 350 will wear a hybrid or not. If we look at the competitors of this car like the Acura RLX and Buick Lacrosse that his plan will be a hybrid engine wear for the year 2020.

2020 Lexus ES 350 Interior and Exterior

The style may be the most notable 2020 Lexus ES 350 alterations. Redesign style, the new Lexus will come in very similar size and style philosophy. Nevertheless, there will likely be many changes in it.

It is going to make use of the company’s new platform, the TNGA, a fresh chassis (which means a fresh braking technique, new brakes, and new suspension) and a new steering. All these alterations are anticipated to improve the driving working experience. The new Lexus could have equivalent dimensions to its predecessor albeit by using a longer wheelbase.

2020 Lexus ES 350

There are going to be a new styling within as well. In contrast to your recent model, the brand new model may have a cabin with a lot more refinement. The interior will use high-quality supplies, also. Because the new Lexus has a somewhat longer wheelbase, there will extra space inside. Also, the car will include handy driver assist and safety capabilities.

Engine Performance

what regarding the engine of this Lexus ES 350? Lexus is renowned with all the superb engine within the inside the hood likewise as its new technological innovation. The base engine of this new automobile is 3.5 liter and V6 engine. It can be a superb common of an engine to the Lexus ES 350, which can in a place to accomplish around 265 hp in maximal. Then, the turbocharged technological innovation will supply greater velocity there. In contrary, the new Lexus ES consists of the intelligent transmission approach. It’s the brand new system, which can present less tricky driving a vehicle strategy. We, however, appear yet another info pertaining to the assortment of your engine specs. Could be, you can see the option in engine decision.

Release Date and Price

For current information about the release date and price for 2020 Lexus ES 350 has not been issued by Lexus, a lot of rumor has it that the Lexus ES 350 2020 will be released early in the year 2020 and for the price is likely to be at the number $39.000.

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2019 Toyota RAV4: Right Size Fits All

2019 Toyota RAV4: Right Size Fits All The 2019 Toyota RAV4 line includes both gasoline and hybrid models.
The new RAV4 is built on Toyota’s TNGA-K platform for a lower center of gravity.
For those on the go, the 2019 RAV4 has plenty of infotainment and safety features.
I read recently that over 60 percent of new cars sold are SUVs and trucks. That explains why you see so many of them around; people want them. That also explains why GM, for example, is closing down lines, because sales of sedans are way down. That also explains why the latest RAV4 from Toyota is such a big deal.
They’re going to sell a lot of them.
Right Size Fits All
What Toyota, and every other player in the (crowded) SUV field has to do, is hit a sweet spot. SUVs have to be trucks, but not too truck-like. They have to be big, but not the size of a semi. They have to be practical, but still have style. That’s probably why Toyota sells so many RAV4s – they’re pretty much all of that.
So, of course, for 2019, you can expect more of the same – only different!
Let’s start with the drivetrain, because there’s a lot going on there.
2019 Toyota RAV4 family. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Use The Force
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is powered by the hysterically-named “Dynamic Force” 2.5-liter inline-four-banger. The engine, matched to an eight-speed automatic, has a near-diesel like compression ratio: 13:1 on gas models and 14:1 on Atkinson cycle HV (hybrid) models. There are other tricks, like D4-S fuel injection (combining direct and secondary port injectors), high-speed combustion, and variable valve timing.
This all adds up to 203 ponies, which is a pretty good output. 60 mph comes up in a respectable 8.2 seconds. Pretty slick for a “truck.” The HV models – billed as the “sporty hybrid grade” by Toyota – hit 60 in 7.8 seconds. For those who want something a little more agile, the XSE HV has a sport-tuned suspension.
That four-banger option seems like a pretty good choice, but the real flashy stuff happens with the RAV4 Hybrid. That model has the engine paired with Toyota’s Hybrid System II and an electronically-controlled Continuously-Variable Transmission. All that mechanical tech tallies up an impressive mpg rating of 41/37/39 (city, highway, combined.) Active grille shutters further enhance fuel economy.
See, impressive!
The TNGA-K platform allows for lower powertrain placement and a lower center of gravity versus the previous RAV4. A new saddle-style fuel tank distributes weight of the fuel evenly side-to-side. The previous model had the entire tank on one side of the vehicle. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Powertrain & Safety Tech
Optional for the 2019 Toyota RAV4 is all-wheel drive and torque vectoring. The system directs up to 50 percent of the torque to the rear wheels, and can slew it left or right to enhance handling. Another nicety is the Rear Driveline Disconnect system for better fuel mileage on long haul highway trips. Multi-Terrain Select gives you the ability to climb over mud, sand, rocks, dirt, and snow.
Nifty features like Hill Start Assist Control, Trailer Sway Control, and Downhill Assist Control are also found on the 2019 Toyota RAV4. There’re safety nannies aplenty to help prevent collisions or mitigate their impacts. Everything from pre-collision and pedestrian warnings to radar cruise control, lane assist, and rear cross traffic braking – the whole megillah.
Related: The Toyota RAV4 Adventure has a few extra features that set it apart. Here is our full review.
Sound Reduction
Sound-damping and soundproofing materials have been enhanced throughout the 2019 Toyota RAV4, with a particular focus on minimizing any noise that might interfere with conversation in the cabin. Holes and gaps between parts have also been filled with sound-damping material. For example, the floor silencer pad is now one large piece; its surface area increasing from 60 percent coverage to 92 percent.
Related: The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is ideal for those who commute everyday.
2019 Toyota RAV4 Limited HV in Ruby Flare Pearl. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Steering & Handling
The new parallel-type electric power steering system is rack-mounted rather than column-mounted, as opposed to the previous model. Toyota says the new design helps enhance turning response and even reduces fatigue on long drives. Higher rigidity in the steering mounting and column further enhance responsiveness and feel, according to Toyota.
Other tidbits include larger over-fenders, and a more aggressive bumper and grille design. 19-inch, split five-spoke wheels with “Adventure grade” tires are available.
Interior Treatments
There’s lots of tech perks on the inside too. Entune 3.0 multimedia, including Wi-Fi Connect powered by Verizon, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple CarPlay. So I guess you can order cat litter by voice command while driving? Okay. Unfortunately to do that, you will have to turn down the available 800-watt JBL audio system.
Across the entire model line, the latest RAV4 is full of convenience stuff, like a 4.2-inch multi-information screen, auxiliary power outlets, USB charging ports, reading lights, and cargo area lights. The exterior mirrors come with LED turn signals and blind spot warning indicators; there is even a moonroof.
2019 Toyota RAV4 XSE HV in BlizzardPearl. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Pricing & Availability
Gas 2019 Toyota RAV4 models come in five grades: LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, and Limited. By contrast, the Hybrid will come in LE, XLE, XSE, and Limited. All this goodness starts around $27,000 bucks for the gas models, stopping around $37,000 for the hybrids. Which, you’ve got to admit, is a pretty good value.
The gasoline models should be in dealerships as you read this; expect the hybrids in March.
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: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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