Automotive

2018 Porsche 911 Carrera T: The T Stands For Terrific

2018 Porsche 911 Carrera T: The T Stands For Terrific

Whoa, whoa, whoa – hold up here chief! What’s this? Has Porsche somehow come to their senses? Out of nowhere, they’ve rolled out the 2018 Porsche 911 Carrera T and, without a sense of irony or deceit, say up front: “Less weight, more performance.” Praise Doktor Ferdinand! Blessed are his accelerations and his braking. Sanctified is his commitment to engineering and precision. Gearheads, we got a hot one!
More Than Words
The Weissach bunch say the 2018 911 Carrera T is “reinvigorating the concept of the puristic 911” and I, for one, am overjoyed about this direction because this is not just ad-speak from the Marketingabteilung. The 911 Carrera T (the “T” stands for Touring for some reason) has less weight, a manual transmission (huzzah!), and a shorter constant transaxle ratio. Wait, there’s more! A standard mechanical rear differential lock is also in the mix along with several hot rod, performance-boosting features that are not available on the standard (some might say lesser) 911 Carreras. You get the PASM Sport Suspension with the ride height dropped 0.39-inches (10 mm), a shortened gear lever for quicker throws, and optional rear-axle steering not available for the standard 911 Carrera.
Photo: Porsche Cars North America.
Light & Tight
Based on the 370 horsepower 911 Carrera Coupe, the Carrera T is focused on being light and sporty. The rear windshield and rear side windows are made of lightweight glass, while door opener loops on the inside replace the conventional door openers, harkening back to the 911 RS of old. Sound insulation? There’s still some here and there, but it has been significantly reduced. All of this adds up to the 911 Carrera T tipping the scales at 3,142 lbs., the lightest model in the 911 Carrera range. Yes, that is no where near the (right around) 2,000 lbs. 1973 911 RS, but modern times mean modern truths, like impact standards and airbags and door beams. But so be it. Light means right, and if I have to explain that to you, then I can’t even . . .
Exterior Treatments
Porsche also wants the new 911 Carrera T to look the part. This is no stripped down sleeper. The 2018 Carrera T is fitted with an aerodynamically improved front spoiler lip; the SportDesign exterior mirrors are painted Agate Grey. The vehicle’s side profile features big, 20-inch Carrera S wheels painted Titanium Grey, and a rather groovy stripe with the model designation. Speaking of that Agate Grey color, Porsche has also seen fit to splash it on the rear decklid louvers, the Porsche logotype, and model designation “911 Carrera T” (that’s the script for all you old school types). The Sport Exhaust System, which is standard (duh), comes with black tips.
Your color options are Lava Orange, Black, Guards Red, Racing Yellow, White, and Miami Blue, along with the trad metallic colors: Carrera White, Jet Black, and GT Silver. Obviously you should go with GT Silver since this is a German car. I’d normally say White, but Porsche is a newer German car company, so the old racing colors do not apply in Porsche’s case.
Photo: Porsche Cars North America.

Interior Appointments
The interior of the 911 Carrera T is fitted with black, 4-way electrically adjustable seats called “Sport Seats Plus,” complete with Sport-Tex centers. More the pity. All those motors and wiring add weight. I would love to see simple levers and such to adjust my seating position. The headrests are embroidered with a black “911” logo, which is a nice touch. And if you order the optional Full Bucket Seats, a first on a 911 Carrera, the rear seats are deleted. So order the Full Bucket Seats.
The standard GT Sport Steering wheel is trimmed in leather and fitted with a switch for driving mode selection. The gear lever is shortened and sports a red embossed shift pattern reserved for the 911 Carrera T. If you want to get all fancy, contrasting colors in Racing Yellow, Guards Red or GT Silver are new and can be had, along with additional accents for the seat belts, “911” logo on the headrests, door opener loops, and seat centers.
Photo: Porsche Cars North America.
Power & Performance
Way, way out back sits a twin-turbo 3.0-liter flat-six engine, putting out 370 horsepower and 339 lb-ft. of torque. Nice! Combine that plant with the manual transmission, shorter constant transaxle ratio, and the mechanical rear diff lock, and you hit 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. Top speed is 182 mph! If you want to, you can opt for the PDK semi-auto transmission, which will scoot you to 60 mph in 4 seconds using the standard launch control. The downside of the PDK (besides weight) is the top speed being “only” 180 mph.
You can order your 2018 911 Carrera T now, and it’s expected to reach U.S. dealers in March. Cost? Well (cough) the base MSRP is $102,100, which, you know, ain’t cheap. But who cares? Buy one! Buy one! Buy one! Then give us a ring at One Automoblog Towers in Detroit so we can, uh, “evaluate” your 2018 911 Carrera T for you.
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.
2018 Porsche 911 Carrera T Gallery

Photos & Source: Porsche Cars North America.

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Kia Offers Performance-Oriented Test Drives For SEMA Attendees

Kia Offers Performance-Oriented Test Drives For SEMA Attendees

Kia jumped into SEMA this year in a big way by offering attendees a chance to experience the new Stinger GT. The sportback, due next month, was tested extensively on the Nürburgring circuit. Kia’s performance car offers a rigid, stiff chassis, an advanced 8-speed automatic, and a number of aerodynamic advancements to reduce wake turbulence and move air over the vehicle. With the available 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 Lambda II engine, the Stinger arrives with more power than the Audi S5 Sportback, BMW 440i Gran Coupe, and Infiniti Q50.
Meaningful Experiences
While at SEMA this year, attendees can actually feel the Stinger’s capabilities as professional Formula Drift drivers take them through a unique autocross course outside the Las Vegas Convention Center. The drivers will be doing drift and other handling demonstrations in the new Stinger as attendees ride along. Following that, attendees can take the wheel of the Stinger GT to experience the autocross course firsthand, as well as a 0 to 60 launch. Such demonstrations are always a lot of fun – we enjoy them when we get the chance ourselves – and for Kia, this year’s SEMA show is particularly meaningful.
“We are so thrilled to show off what Kia has become at SEMA because 2017 is a momentous year for our Kia brand,” explained Justin Sohn, President and CEO of Kia Motors America. “We ranked number one in quality for the second year in a row in JD Power’s Initial Quality Study, we are top three in Consumer Reports reliability, and we are now introducing the all-new, 2018 four-door Stinger Sports Fastback, Kia’s fastest ever and our first performance vehicle.”
Stinger GT Wide Body. Photo: Kia Motors America.
Stinger GT Wide Body
In addition to the drive demonstrations, Kia is displaying three different vehicles at SEMA. The first is the Stinger GT Wide Body, inspired by ’70s era GT cars. Kia teamed with West Coast Customs for this beautiful pearl blue rig which includes a lowered suspension, 21-inch Keen forged wheels, and quad-port exhaust tips. Inside, the Stinger GT Wide Body features custom blue leather seat piping, a distinct hand-stitched gray leather dash panel, and an alcantara-wrapped steering wheel.
Stinger GT Federation
The second of three vehicles is another take on the Stinger, billed as the GT Federation. This Stinger variant features a number of aftermarket performance parts and accessories, and signals Kia’s intent on making such parts available. The exterior accent kits by Air Design USA include a rear spoiler, rear diffuser, and redesigned hood vents. A K&N cold-air intake and a low-restriction, quad-tipped Borla exhaust are also characteristic of this Stinger variant. These accessories add another 15 horsepower to the V6 Lambda II engine.
Stinger GT Federation. Photo: Kia Motors America.

Cadenza Obsidian
Last but certainly not least: a special Kia Cadenza Obsidian with a lowered suspension, stiffer springs, and custom 20-inch gloss-black Keen wheels. Attendees will notice the Cosmic Copper trim, black metallic paint, and ultra-dark ceramic window tint. Inside, the Cadenza Obsidian has a hand-stitched suede dashboard top panel, butter-soft brown leather seats with suede inserts, and brown suede door panels. Kia also worked with West Coast Customs for this Cadenza variant.
SEMA Information
The SEMA Show runs until November 3rd at the Las Vegas Convention Center, 3150 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, Nevada. Registration begins at 7:30am with the exhibits and New Products Showcase going until 5 and 6pm, respectively. More information regarding hours, floor plans, and special events can be found on the SEMA Show’s website.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Stinger GT Wide Body Gallery

Stinger GT Federation Gallery

Cadenza Obsidian Gallery

Photos & Source: Kia Motors America.

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Letter From The UK: A Car of Our Own

Letter From The UK: A Car of Our Own

“This is Meg. Meg is our car.” This statement appeared on a Twitter feed near to me, accompanied by a photograph of a five-year-old Ford Focus. Meg is very clean and takes pride of place in their driveway. Meg, it is clear, is as much a part of the family as the dog or a difficult child. To be fair to Meg and her family, I personally have a bit of an issue with assigning gender and human attributes to machinery. My late Mother-in-Law (who was, against type, a very nice woman) insisted on calling her car “Lulu” on the basis that the licence plate kind of looked a bit like that.
Crushes & Complexities
There’s nothing new about this: Hark back to earlier days to hear British car enthusiasts – usually men wearing cravats – referring to their classic car as “her” or even “the old girl,” a sobriquet otherwise used solely as a replacement for “the wife.” Fortunately, this practice has been driven out of use by the complex assignment of gender these days. My own car, which I bought new for cash, is going on six-years-old (note that I refuse to use the word “birthday”). At best, it gets called “the Citroen,” otherwise it is “the car.” I have no plans to change it because it does all that I require and does it well, not because I love it like a brother.
It seems to me that we use the internet as an alternative universe. We can do and say things that would make us look silly out in the “real world” where we actually reside. Thus, in a way, the real world becomes another universe of itself and not just the place that we live in. It’s strange how we exist in this parallel way.
These days, and we got this idea from the USA by the way, we use our special internet universe to possess new cars we are unlikely ever to call our own. We do this by means of the Personal Contract Purchase or PCP. It seems like a neat idea but, as some people are finding out, it isn’t always as clear cut as it seems. Lose your job through no fault of your own and see what happens. You may have been there already.
A vintage E-Type might qualify for the title of “old girl” or any other equivalent label. Earlier this year, Jaguar Classic debuted its first “Reborn” Jaguar E-Type at the Techno-Classica Essen show. Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.
Downward Spiral
Looking at all the new or nearly new vehicles on Britain’s roads today, you would think we are a robust and economically sound nation. Indeed, the figures show the UK has seen modest economic growth this year, but as far as the motor industry is concerned, appearances can be deceptive. Sales are slowing. The car market has been over-trading lately, riding on the wave of financial innovations like PCP.
In fact, UK car manufacturing fell in September, with year-on-year output declining minus 4.1 percent, according to recent statistics by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. 6,500 fewer cars rolled off production lines than in the same month of 2016, in line with slower growth across European Union markets, but it was substantial double-digit losses here in our internal market which has driven the overall decline. Domestic demand in the month dropped, contributing to an overall year-to-date production decrease of minus 2.2 percent. This rather indicates the PCP market skews the outlook.

Warning Signs
Here I quote the UK’s Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders head honcho, Mike Hawes, verbatim:
“With UK car manufacturing falling for a fifth month this year, it’s clear that declining consumer and business confidence is affecting domestic demand and hence production volumes. Uncertainty regarding the national air quality plans also didn’t help the domestic market for diesel cars, despite the fact that these new vehicles will face no extra charges or restrictions across the UK. Brexit is the greatest challenge of our time and yet we still don’t have any clarity on what our future relationship with our biggest trading partner will look like, nor detail of the transitional deal being sought. Leaving the EU with no deal would be the worst outcome for our sector so we urge government to deliver on its commitments and safeguard the competitiveness of the industry.”
Right now at least, “No Deal” seems the likeliest outcome. We’ll see.
Vauxhall’s Luton Plant manufactures the Vivaro, a multi-use commercial van. According to Vauxhall, the Luton Plant produced 60,820 Vivaros in 2015. Currently, the plant employs about 1,200 people. Photo: Vauxhall.

A Car of Our Own
So this in turn suggests the PCP bubble could burst. The deals are getting, on the face of it, better, and ways of shifting cars from the showroom more inventive. Can it last? The car market is a transient thing and very much governed by the disposable income of the population, and the prospects for a secure job environment are looking increasingly shaky.
Are we reaching the stage where nobody will ever have a car like Meg to call their own? Or are we going to go the other way and keep the cars we really do own for longer? That’s my plan. “The Citroen” stays with me until one of us breaks down. Meanwhile, I am resisting the temptation of being over-familiar and calling it “Claudette.” The family prefers the more alliterative Maxine. “This is Maxine. We own Maxine outright.”
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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2019 Mazda3: Two Flavors & Plenty of Extras

2019 Mazda3: Two Flavors & Plenty of Extras The 2019 Mazda3 comes in two styles, sedan and hatchback.
A manual transmission is available in certain combinations.
The list of connectivity and safety features is impressive.
Mazda keeps cranking these little guys out and it’s easy to see why. The Mazda3 is the best-selling car for the Japanese brand. I know, that’s kind of sad. I was hoping for the Miata, but it’s not a sports car world I’m afraid. So what makes the 2019 Mazda3 so hot? The usual stuff for Mazda: value and lots of goodies and fun.
Mazda might not be the most popular Japanese car brand, but they do hit a certain sweet spot. A spot where lots of innovation, high-end content, and driving fun meet for not much money.
Two Flavors, One Engine
The 2019 Mazda3 is a good example of this sweet spot. Starting at $21,000 in sedan skin, the 3 gets you a lot of car for not that much cash. There’s also a hatchback flavor that starts at $23,600. Regardless, both are propelled by the wonderful, race-derived SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter engine. That engine cranks out 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft. of torque, which is impressive, but not great (volumetrically speaking).
There’s paddle shifters for the six-speed automatic. But – and this is a big but – Mazda also has a six-speed manual transmission available for you old school gearheads out there. The manual is reserved for the front-wheel drive hatchbacks in Premium trim.
Related: The Bruno Mars of sports cars? Meet the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF.
All-Wheel Drive In The Mix
Front-wheel drive is standard, but Mazda’s predictive i-ACTIV all-wheel drive is available. No, I have no idea what “predictive i-ACTIV all-wheel drive” is, exactly, beyond more marketing speak gobbledygook. But I do know that having all four corners pawing at the pavement is (usually) a good thing. So good on Mazda for making that an affordable option.
The SKYACTIV engine uses cylinder-deactivation to lower fuel consumption when all you’re doing is cruising long distances down the highway. The new 3 also gets G-Vectoring Control Plus, Mazda’s torque vectoring scheme. 16-inch wheels are standard, with 18 inchers as an option.
SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter engine. Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
Interior Treatments: Bang For Your Buck
Sadly, that’s about it for any performance-related news on the 2019 Mazda3. However, the other stuff, the interior and infotainment and all that, is where all the bang-for-your-buck is. The interior is entirely new for 2019 from the center console on up. Said console has a new shift knob and armrest for a more natural feeling for the driver. There’s a new 8.8-inch infotainment screen standard on all models. The “gauge cluster display” is now a seven-inch TFT reconfigurable screen.
The eight-speaker sound system features a “three-way layout” with Bluetooth phone and audio pairing, HD radio, and two USB audio inputs. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.
Comfort-wise you can expect leatherette seating surfaces, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. Safety-wise there’s a host of standard features in Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE package: Driver Attention Alert, High Beam Control, Smart City Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning just to name a few.
Did I mention the 2019 Mazda3 sedan starts at only $21k?
2019 Mazda3 interior layout. Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
Three Extra Packages On Tap
There are three additional packages available for the 2019 Mazda3: Select, Preferred, and Premium. Depending on the package, you get even more neat stuff but it is model-specific. The sedan can come in all three but the hatchback only comes in Preferred and Premium. The Select package nets you everything we just talked about while the Preferred package comes with an upgraded Bose stereo. The Preferred also includes an eight-way power driver’s seat, power lumbar support, two-position driver memory, and heated front seats.
The Premium package gets a trick HUD setup called the Active Driving Display that projects onto the windshield. The Premium package also gets you leather seats, a power moonroof, and the Adaptive Front-Lighting System.
Pricing & Availability
So yes, you get a lot of stuff for, what should be, entry-level money. A complete pricing chart is below. Expect to see the 2019 Mazda3 at dealers 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.
2019 Mazda3
Hatchback
Sedan
MSRP by Model & Trim
Add $895 for destination, $940 in Alaska

Key:
FWD: front-wheel drive / AWD: all-wheel drive
6AT: 6-speed auto / 6MT: 6-speed manual

FWD 6AT
$23,600
$21,000
Select FWD 6AT
–
$22,600
Preferred FWD 6AT
$25,200
$24,200
Premium FWD 6MT
$27,500
–
Premium FWD 6AT
$27,500
$26,500
AWD 6AT
$25,000
–
Select AWD 6AT
–
$24,000
Preferred AWD 6AT
$26,600
$25,600
Premium AWD 6AT
$28,900
$27,900
2019 Mazda3 Gallery

Photos & Source: Mazda North American Operations.

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2019 Toyota Sienna Review: Performance For Families Where It Matters

2019 Toyota Sienna Review: Performance For Families Where It Matters 92SOLID 2019 Toyota Sienna SE PremiumOverall ImpressionIdeal for families.All-wheel drive option is a plus.Kids will enjoy the rear entertainment system. ProsVersatility Cargo SpaceAWD CapabilityConsPrice PointManual Removal of Captain's ChairsThe 2019 Toyota Sienna is all about family-oriented features, versatility, interior space, and reliability. Upper trims add even more entertainment and accessibility options. If you live in a cold climate, the Sienna now offers all-wheel drive for extra peace of mind. It’s one of the best family haulers on the market, frankly. Recently, we drove the 2019 Toyota Sienna SE Premium with all-wheel drive.
Here’s what the sporty SE trim brings to the party.
What’s New For 2019
Toyota Sienna gets Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay as standard equipment. The SE trim is now available with all-wheel drive.
Features & Options: Style & Convenience
The 2019 Toyota Sienna SE Premium AWD ($44,865) came nicely-equipped with roof rails, power-sliding rear doors, privacy glass, heated mirrors, body-color exterior trim (replacing the black plastic), and both floor and overhead consoles. The conversation mirror, eight-way power driver’s seat (with power lumbar support), and second- and third-row sunshades all came in handy during our drive.
Infotainment features included the seven-inch touchscreen with Scout GPS Link compatibility, and the six-speaker sound system with HD and satellite radio.
Features & Options: Baker’s Dozen
The SE adds a sport-tuned suspension, sharper steering, 19-inch alloy wheels, foglights, LED daytime running lights, mesh grille, and lower-body skirting. The SE also has a power liftgate, first- and second-row perforated leather upholstery (row three gets premium vinyl), heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a larger driver information screen.
Our SE Premium tester added a sunroof, keyless ignition and entry, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, navigation, and Entune smartphone app integration. The rear-seat entertainment system includes HDMI and SD card inputs, a Blu-ray/DVD player, two 120-volt power outlets, and a large screen that can be split to display two different sources. Parents will appreciate the Driver Easy Speak system, which amplifies the driver’s voice through the rear speakers.
Total MSRP including destination: $45,910. By comparison, the 2019 Toyota Sienna starts at $31,115.
2019 Toyota Sienna.
Interior Highlights: Simple & Contemporary
Since families spend so much time inside the cabin, it’s the most important thing to look at when considering a minivan. And the new Sienna doesn’t disappoint. The family hauler offers a contemporary interior and a convenient layout for adults and kids alike. You will find plenty of room in this minivan with exceptional comfort for all riders.
Up front, the sweeping, contoured dashboard is attractive and most importantly, functional for the driver. Controls are placed conveniently on the driver’s side and instruments are large and easy-to-read. Audio and three-zone climate controls can be easily reached by the front passenger. The seven-inch touchscreen display comes with full color graphics and can be easily seen from the driver’s seat.
Interior Highlights: Comfortable & Spacious
The leather-trimmed seats are comfortable for longer trips and offer plenty of support. Passengers will find it easy to get in-and-out with the Sienna’s power-sliding rear doors. Captain’s chairs were standard with our all-wheel drive tester. The chairs slide forward and all the way back, opening up lots of room to stretch out when you aren’t using the third-row seats.
There’s plenty of cargo space with the second-row seats folded and pushed forward, and with the third row folded. The 2019 Toyota Sienna offers up an abundant 117.8 cubic feet of cargo-carrying ability. Behind the third-row seats is 39.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The deep well in the floor can keep a massive amount of groceries from sliding all over the back, unlike most SUVs.
Our 2019 Toyota Sienna tester came with power-sliding rear doors. It was a feature we used more than we thought.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2019 Toyota Sienna is powered by a 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine with direct fuel injection. The V6 develops 296 horsepower and 263 lb-ft. of torque and comes coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel economy estimates come in at 18/24 city/highway and 20 combined with all-wheel-drive. Front-wheel drive models increase to 19/27 city/highway and 22 combined.
When equipped with front-wheel drive, the 2019 Toyota Sienna keeps up with the competition in terms of fuel economy.
Driving Dynamics: Focused On The High Points
The 2019 Toyota Sienna is built for comfort, not performance, but it’s still one of the quickest minivans available. It will get up to highway speeds without an issue. That aside, most families will care more about safety, comfort, and whether or not it’s maneuverable in the city. The Sienna scores well every time and did so on our test drive this week.
We especially noted good visibility for the driver and the backup camera for those times when you can’t see behind you.
The Sienna isn’t all that quiet on the highway, but you won’t care when you crank up the upgraded JBL sound system. It has 10 speakers and a subwoofer for your favorite tunes. The kids won’t mind either as they will be watching the rear-seat entertainment system with their wireless headphones on.

The 2019 @Toyota Sienna is built for comfort, not performance, but it’s still one of the quickest minivans available.Click To TweetDriving Dynamics: Performance Where It Matters
We did notice the SE trim, with its sport-tuned suspension, is more stable. There’s less body lean than the standard model in and through tight corners. Shifts are smooth and practically imperceptible from the eight-speed automatic, another strong point for the 2019 Toyota Sienna.
Families who need all-weather capability may opt for the Sienna’s all-wheel drive system with Active Torque Control. You will have no trouble getting around this winter when the snow flies.
Conclusion: Good For The Family
The 2019 Toyota Sienna SE Premium is not the cheapest minivan on the market, but you will be getting a copious and versatile interior that’s comfortable for you and the kids.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Toyota Sienna Gallery

Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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2020 Kia Telluride: The South Korean Range Rover

2020 Kia Telluride: The South Korean Range Rover 2020 Kia Telluride debuts at the North American International Auto Show.
The Telluride is a luxurious and rugged family SUV with seating for eight.
The 3.8-liter GDI V6 motor can tow 5,000 lbs. All-wheel drive is available.
Well, look what we have here. The 2020 Kia Telluride. I and the rest of the guys here at Automoblog got our first glimpse of the Telluride during the 2018 New York Fashion Week. It graced Brandon Maxwell’s Texas-inspired fashion collection, so it naturally came with rugged accoutrements like a hatch-mounted spare tire and snorkel.
Sadly, that particular Telluride is a one-off version.
Back then, the Kia Telluride had impressive credentials. My first impression was that of a large, luxurious family SUV with true off-road credentials. From this alone, Kia has struck the nail right on the head.
Telluride is the first Kia designed specifically for the United States by the Kia Design Center in Irvine, California. Photo: Kia Motors America.
Huge Market Potential
Currently, both import and domestic carmakers are scrambling for position. The plan is to release as many sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks as possible, two of the best-selling vehicles globally.
Kia – along with parent company Hyundai – made the right choice in conceptualizing a large SUV. They didn’t want to settle for a one-trick-pony crossover. And as Hyundai is presenting the Palisade as a refined type of behemoth, Kia went the other way around with the Telluride. Think Rob Gronkowski instead of Tom Brady and you’re not far off.
Here is a rugged SUV that can hack it over rougher roads and uneven pavement. But it also offers a level of safety tech and luxury that rivals premium offerings like the Range Rover Discovery and Audi Q7.
Direct-Injected Power
Kia equipped the new Telluride with a 3.8-liter gasoline V6 with direct injection. It is good for 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft. of torque. Power is fed to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic, but the Telluride is available with an active on-demand all-wheel drive system.
Interestingly enough, the Hyundai Palisade is also equipped with the very same motor as the Telluride.
The 2020 Kia Telluride comes with four drive modes: Smart, Eco, Sport, and Comfort. Each setting will feed electrons to the steering, powertrain, and drivetrain accordingly. The new Telluride can tow up to 5,000 lbs., which is just about right for a luxury-based SUV.
The 2020 Kia Telluride comes with a 291 horsepower, 3.8-liter GDI V6 motor. Photo: Kia Motors America.
Rugged & Muscular Styling
Compared to the Telluride concept car, the production model is a bit shorter and smaller. Kia also gave the new Telluride a more squared-off look. This helps to further differentiate the Telluride from the Hyundai Palisade.
And even though the Palisade and Telluride are based on the same platform, Kia is quick to point out that both vehicles share zero exterior panels. Viewed from the side, the rounded fenders and large alloys command attention. There’s no doubt the Telluride is a looker, which is a nice thing to have in a hulking SUV.
With a long, broad hood and wide front grille, the new Telluride exudes a rugged elegance. The stacked headlights and upright windshield convey power, authority, and modernity. Further enhancing the go-anywhere appeal are the Telluride badges on the hood and liftgate. The rear is adorned with inverted L-shaped taillights with LED stripes and a sculpted rear skid plate.
The 2020 Kia Telluride is also equipped with twin exhaust tips. Thankfully, they’re not the fake kind.
The 2020 Kia Telluride features L-shaped LED tailights, a rear skid plate, and twin exhaust tips. Photo: Kia Motors America.
Epicurean Interior
Kia utilized all the tricks in the book to come up with a luxurious and plush interior, but the Hyundai Palisade is more high-tech with its push-button shifter and larger 12-inch touchscreen. Despite this fact, Kia didn’t skimp on soft-touch materials, sumptuous leather, and comfortable seats. As a result, the Telluride’s interior is a nice place to be.
Most importantly, it offers generous interior room to move around.
The interior is bathed in matte-finished wood and brushed metal trimming. The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel is wrapped in cowhide. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard along with Bluetooth connectivity and a remote-start. Higher trim models receive Kia’s UVO telematics system. This allows you to monitor and control vehicle settings using your smartphone or laptop.
2020 Kia Telluride interior layout. Photo: Kia Motors America.
Advanced Safety
The 2020 Kia Telluride comes standard with anti lock braking, stability control, stability management, downhill brake control, hill-start assist, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Kia Drive Wise system includes forward collision warning, collision avoidance, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and smart cruise control among others.
Pricing & Availability
Assembly for the 2020 Kia Telluride is at the Georgia West Point plant. No word yet on pricing, but we reckon the new Telluride will start at around $29,000 to $30,000.
Alvin Reyes is the Associate Editor of Automoblog. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.
2020 Kia Telluride Gallery

Photos & Source: Kia Motors America.

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Chevy Gets Red Dirt Rich With Luke Bryan Suburban Concept In Vegas

Chevy Gets Red Dirt Rich With Luke Bryan Suburban Concept In Vegas

“I’ll be down here, knee-deep in the Muckalee,” Luke Bryan says in arguably the most notable composition on his 2015 album, Kill the Lights. Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day, often stylized as “H.F.E” by fans, suggests nothing beats the great outdoors, especially when your significant other comes along. H.F.E is a genuine, heartfelt response to phrases like “don’t you want to get out of here” or “there is a lot more opportunity in the city.”
Flint River Pay
On a basic level, it’s a catchy song; as the guitar notes build, it’s a perfect one to pluck away to air-style. On a basic level, the lyrics are merely about a guy that loves the outdoors. Yet, to those invested in rural life, Bryan’s Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day is an anthem; the lyrics are the embodiment of that great, down-home American dream shared among generations; the lyrics remind us that dream, no matter the odds, is worth fighting for.
It’s pulling those old, dusty work gloves off, walking in and seeing a truly beautiful partner making dinner as little ones race across the room at lightning speed yelling “daddy.” It’s bracing for impact as they leap through the air. It’s checking on neighbors, tending to fences, worrying about crops; it’s cheering for that promising high school prospect on Friday night and going before The Lord on Sunday. In the H.F.E life, money isn’t what makes you rich.
“If you live in that hunting, fishing, loving every day mentality, you’re going to be a little more stress-free,” Bryan said. “And your quality of life will be a little better.”
Luke Bryan Suburban Concept. Photo: Chevrolet.
Stripping It Down
Chevrolet’s latest Suburban concept aims to capture the H.F.E lifestyle during this year’s SEMA Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Bryan was on hand to introduce the Suburban, now displayed alongside other Chevy vehicles, crate engines, and performance parts at SEMA. Bryan’s Suburban concept was engineered for outdoor getaways, something the singer regularly does with his family and kids. Chevy designers actually interviewed Bryan to learn what the ultimate outdoor vehicle might look like.
“I’m a longtime Suburban owner,” Bryan commented. “This partnership is a natural fit for me and this unique Suburban represents everything I and my family want for our outdoor adventures.”
“This concept is all about maximizing the Suburban’s space and utility for a family that truly enjoys hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities,” added Todd Parker, Chevrolet Design Director.
Photo: Chevrolet.

Kicking The Dust Up
The Luke Bryan Suburban Concept is powered by GM’s evergreen 5.3 V8 with direct injection, continuously variable valve timing, and active fuel management. The 355 horsepower engine creates 383 lb-ft. of torque, supported by a six-speed automatic transmission and a Chevrolet Performance cold-air intake. The 5.3, a member of the Chevrolet Small Block family for over 60 years, rarely needs an introduction. It’s part of the reason why owners continue to set their watch to Chevy trucks.
“Chevy has been part of our family and a part of our work life on the farm for as long as I can remember,” Bryan explained. “If you were a Bryan, you drove a Chevy.”
The Luke Bryan Suburban Concept includes modified 22-inch wheels, 35-inch tires, a locking rear differential, and six-piston front Brembo brakes. The suspension is lifted and accompanied by a lower skidplate extension. The 8,000 lbs. towing capacity, roof-mounted equipment carrier, fishing rod holder, and swing-out tailgate will nicely accommodate those who journey into the wild.
“There’s plenty of room for all their gear, along with added amenities that make the journey more enjoyable,” Parker said.
Photo: Chevrolet.
SEMA Information
The Luke Bryan Suburban Concept will be on display at Chevrolet’s SEMA exhibit through Friday, November 3rd. The SEMA Show is held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, 3150 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, Nevada. Registration begins at 7:30am with the exhibits and New Products Showcase going until 5 and 6pm, respectively. More information regarding hours, floor plans, and special events can be found on the SEMA Show’s website.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Luke Bryan Suburban Concept Features
Unique lower fascia.
Roof-mounted fishing rod holder.
Swing-out tailgate with spare tire mount.
Roof-mounted light rack by Baja Designs.
Chevrolet Accessories: roof rack cross rails.
Chevrolet Accessories: mesh grille (custom finish).
“Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day” exterior badges.
Chevrolet Accessories: black Chevrolet bowtie emblems.
Chevrolet Accessories: Bluetooth Bullfrog music system by KICKER.
Chevrolet Accessories: Thule Canyon roof basket with optional extensions.
Hunter Bronze exterior color with Dark Carbon accents and camo graphics.
Fully trimmed seats with Argon piping and Platinum camo-pattern perforated inserts.
Luke Bryan Suburban Concept Gallery

Photos & Source: Chevrolet.

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Honda Aims To Keep Best-Selling Status With 2018 CR-V

Honda Aims To Keep Best-Selling Status With 2018 CR-V

The 2018 Honda CR-V is here, and it almost goes without saying this thing is to Honda’s SUV lineup what the Accord is to their cars: a license to print money. Honda sells a ton of these guys. I mean by the boatload. The CR-V is America’s best-selling SUV for the past 20 years and with prices ranging from a reasonable $24,150 to the not-even-close-to-exorbitant $34,050, it looks like Honda will keep that title.
The 2018 Honda CR-V gives drivers premium features, with convenient in-vehicle connectivity experiences through Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Pandora.
Power & Performance
The 2018 CR-V returns with the same responsive and fuel efficient 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected and turbocharged inline 4-cylinder that debuted in 2017. With 190 peak horsepower on tap and paired with a creepy, yet logical continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Honda G-Shift control logic, the 1.5-liter, front-drive CR-Vs bring home the highest EPA fuel economy ratings in the compact SUV class. You can also get a bigger 2.4-liter DOHC, direct-injected inline 4-banger, putting out 184 peak horsepower, also paired with a CVT, in the LX trim level.
Honda says the 2018 CR-V is designed to be fun-to-drive, yet quiet and comfortable. Okay, sure, but this thing ain’t a Civic Type R, okay? The chassis is well thought out, however, with a MacPherson strut front suspension, a multi-link rear suspension with a floating subframe, fluid-filled suspension bushings, front and rear stabilizer bars, and dual-pinion, variable-ratio electric power steering. So the new CR-V should make short work of twisty country roads, broken urban streets, and everything in between.
Photo: Honda North America.
Interior Treatments
The inside of the 2018 CR-V is described as spacious, with the best rear seat legroom in its class along with a large, flexible cargo area. 2018 also brings upgraded materials throughout, a soft-touch instrument panel, and intricately stitched seats. Also on offer is the latest in-vehicle connectivity and audio tech, with the available 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio interface. The Android operating system features a physical volume knob as well as an available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System, developed in cooperation with the Garmin GPS people.
Other niceties include remote engine start, dual-zone climate controls, heated side mirrors, a space-saving and convenient Electric Parking Brake, rear USB charging ports, 4-way power adjustments on the front passenger seat, and a driver’s seat with 8-way power adjustments and 4-way power lumbar support. The front seats are heated, of course.
Photo: Honda North America.

Safety & Security
Safety stuff? But of course! This is a Honda, so of course there’s tons of safety tech gee-gaws strewn throughout the CR-V. The 2018 CR-V has Honda Sensing as standard equipment on EX and higher trims. Honda Sensing features Collision Mitigation Braking with Forward Collision Warning and pedestrian sensing capability. Also included is Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with low-speed follow and Lane Keeping Assist.
Seriously dude, if you end up pranging one of these, you should really consider taking buses and taxis for the rest of your life. Seriously.
Here’s a nice little chart that shows you all of the 2018 Honda CR-V’s trim levels, drivetrains, and economy figures along with the prices. The 2018 Honda CR-V is in dealerships now.
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.
TRIM
TRANSMISSION
MSRP
EPA Fuel Economy Ratings(City / Highway/ Combined)
CR-V 2.4 LX (2WD)
CVT
$24,150
26/32/28
CR-V 2.4 LX (AWD)
CVT
$25,550
25/31/27
CR-V 1.5T EX (2WD)
CVT
$26,950
28/34/30
CR-V 1.5T EX (AWD)
CVT
$28,350
27/33/29
CR-V 1.5T EX-L (2WD)
CVT
$29,450
28/34/30
CR-V 1.5T EX-L (AWD)
CVT
$30,850
27/33/29
CR-V 1.5T EX-L with Navi (2WD)
CVT
$30,450
28/34/30
CR-V 1.5T EX-L with Navi (AWD)
CVT
$31,850
27/33/29
CR-V 1.5T Touring (2WD)
CVT
$32,650
28/34/30
CR-V 1.5T Touring (AWD)
CVT
$34,050
27/33/29
2018 Honda CR-V Gallery

Photos & Source: Honda North America.

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5 Really Cool 2017 SEMA Show Reveals

5 Really Cool 2017 SEMA Show Reveals

The SEMA Show kicked off today at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Considered by many as the premier automotive specialty products event, this year’s show will provide a number of educational seminars, product demonstrations, and networking opportunities. Last year, more than 70,000 attended and the New Parts Showcase featured nearly 3,000 recently introduced parts, tools, and components. As the event ramps up this week, here are some of the most interesting reveals.
Scorpion All Terrain Plus Tires
Pirelli unveiled their latest truck and SUV tires for North America, the Scorpion All Terrain Plus. According to Ian Coke, Chief Technical Officer, Pirelli Tire North America, the new tires combine the company’s latest innovations to maximize performance and traction.
“This tire combines our advanced compound and design technology with an aggressive appearance to provide light truck and SUV owners with a durable, high performing driving experience through a wide range of challenging on or off-road conditions,” he said.
Identifying features include deeper tread grooves and conical stone ejectors. The first make for steady, balanced traction in snow and mud, while the latter forces small stones from the tread. Planned fitments include vehicles like the Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Toyota Tacoma among others. The new tires replace the prior Scorpion ATR design and will arrive in the first half of 2018.
Pirelli officials say the tread elements of the new Scorpion All Terrain Plus tires have a higher resistance to cutting and chipping. Photo: Pirelli.
John Cooper Works Tuning Kit
The new kit gives Mini fans a retrofit exhaust system, software programming to boost power, and other aftermarket components. With the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit, the Cooper S and Cooper S ALL4 on Clubman and Countryman models go from 189 to 208 horsepower; torque jumps to 221 ft-lb., available between 1,350 and 4,600 rpm. The kit’s Bluetooth actuated exhaust system allows drivers to switch between two modes, Sport and Sport+.
“The John Cooper Works Tuning Kit provides reduced exhaust gas back pressure, in combination with adapted engine software, to deliver the sporty responsiveness MINI owners have come to love across the John Cooper Works variants,” a statement from Mini reads.
The upgrade can be purchased and installed at any local dealer in the United States when it arrives in January. Those wanting a more performance-oriented feel can opt for JCW Chrome or Carbon Fiber tailpipes.
Mini Ice Blue special edition Cooper S Hardtop. Photo: Mini.

Q60 Red Alpha Concept
Infiniti and AMS Performance are displaying the fruits of their Red Alpha collaboration, regarded by both brands as something that brings together their individual engineering strengths. The Q60 Red Alpha Concept offers a 19 percent horsepower gain and 29 percent torque increase; it is equipped with a multitude of Q60 parts engineered by AMS Performance, including special intercoolers and intakes.
“The combination of Infiniti’s luxury performance vehicles with AMS Performance’s ability to build some of the fastest aftermarket turbocharged import vehicles allows us to unlock the driver’s full potential with the Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400, a concept we’ve dubbed ‘Red Alpha,’ said Martin Musial, President, AMS Performance.
Other performance parts include the Dry Media Filters, High Flow Exhaust Downpipes, a Red Alpha Catback Exhaust System, proprietary Red Alpha ECU Calibration, High Capacity Overflow Tank, and a High Capacity Red Alpha Center Heat Exchanger. Infiniti notes that many of these products, currently on display at SEMA, will soon be available for purchase.
Infiniti Q60 Red Alpha concept. Photo: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.
Civic Type R Crate Engine
The Civic Type R is Honda’s most powerful namesake in the United States with its impressive 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo engine. The plant creates 306 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 295 lb-ft. of torque, available from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. Through Honda Performance Development’s Honda Racing Line program, the engine is available to U.S. grassroots and professional racers for verified, closed-course applications. Prior to this announcement, Type R crate engines were only available in Europe and Asia.
“The engine and the Civic Type R are a direct manifestation of Honda’s racing spirit, experience, and heritage,” a statement from Honda North America reads. “More so, the sale of the Civic Type R crate engine builds upon Honda’s long-term commitment to the support of grassroots racing.”
The Honda Racing Line program will sell the K20C1 turbocharged crate engine to racing enthusiasts in the U.S. for $6,519.87, excluding shipping cost. Interested parties can apply through the Honda Performance Development website.
2017 Honda Civic Type R Engine with Intercooler. Photo: Honda North America.
BMW M Performance Parts
BMW is showcasing the array of M Performance Parts for the 2018 M5, regarded by the automaker as the quickest, most technologically advanced M-vehicle to date. The car is motivated by a 4.4-liter V8 with M TwinPower Turbo technology for a whopping 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft. of torque. With BMW’s new 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, 60 mph arrives in a mere 3.2 seconds.
Some of the most interesting M Performance Parts for the new M5 are found in the aerodynamics department. There is a newly designed front attachment, a carbon fiber rear spoiler, side sill attachments, and a rear diffuser. The “carbon fiber rear spoiler Pro” will be available in July, along with front kidney grilles, air breather side grilles, and carbon fiber mirror caps. All M Performance Parts are meant to uphold BMW’s functional requirements in terms of aerodynamics, cooling, and weight reduction.
Also on display is the 2018 BMW M3, 30 Years American Edition, which celebrates 30 years of the M3 in the United States. The car was designed by BMW Group Designworks and built through BMW Individual.
2018 BMW M5 with M Performance Parts. Photo: BMW of North America.
SEMA Information
The SEMA Show runs until November 3rd at the Las Vegas Convention Center, 3150 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, Nevada. Registration begins at 7:30 am with the exhibits and New Products Showcase going until 5 and 6pm, respectively. More information regarding hours, floor plans, and special events can be found on the SEMA Show’s website. If you see something interesting, thought-provoking, or otherwise cool, drop us a line on Twitter with a photo: @Automoblog
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Cover Photo: SEMA.

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