Automotive

2019 Range Rover Models Blend Performance With Efficiency

2019 Range Rover Models Blend Performance With Efficiency

Expect to see prototypes of the 2019 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport P400e plug-in hybrid during the Los Angeles Auto Show. The vehicles represent a combination of “sustainable performance” and “effortless capability” according to Jaguar Land Rover. It’s the first time the models have been shown in North America. It’s also the first time those who prefer the flagship Land Rover SUV can opt for a zero-emissions variant.
Power & Performance
The new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport P400e combine a 2.0-liter four-cylinder Ingenium gasoline engine, an electric motor, and a 13.1kWh lithium-ion battery. The Ingenium plant creates 296 horsepower while the electric motor registers 114 horsepower. Combined system output is 398 horsepower and 472 lb-ft. of torque with an electric only range of 31 miles.
The Land Rover Terrain Response 2 system is calibrated to “precisely distribute” maximum torque from the electric motor at zero rpm to all four wheels. Jaguar Land Rover says this provides better control during low speed, off-road maneuvers. All 2018 Range Rover models come with air suspension to raise the vehicle for more aggressive off-road driving.
Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.
Drive Modes
Customers can choose two different modes: Parallel Hybrid, the default mode, combines the gasoline and electric powertrains. To help maximize efficiency, drivers can enact a “SAVE” function to prevent the battery from dropping below a certain level. Predictive Energy Optimization works in tandem with the navigation to increase efficiency. Once a destination is entered, the vehicle utilizes GPS altitude data for the route and combines the gasoline and electric motors accordingly.
The second mode is simply called “Electric Vehicle.” This means the Range Rover is running solely on the electric motor with the battery’s stored energy.
Construction
The new Range Rovers are lighter than their counterparts – 39 percent to be exact. Both the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport P400e utilize an all-aluminum body which accounts for the weight loss when compared to a steel equivalent. Jaguar Land Rover notes the “extensive optimization processes” for the vehicle’s architecture, saying the processes were some of the most ambitious in the company’s history. The development of the all-aluminum body required intense computer simulation and a 1,000 years of processor time.
Multi-dimensional optimization tools were also used to minimize weight while simultaneously delivering outstanding stiffness and refinement, according to Jaguar Land Rover. Aerodynamic advancements are seen specifically with the flush glazing, the D-pillar’s sharp separation, and rear lights. This combination helps create a drag coefficient of 0.34.
Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.

Configuration & Charging
The 2.0-liter Ingenium gasoline engine is longitudinally mounted, with the 85kW electric motor housed inside the ZF eight-speed automatic. The transmission resides at the vehicle’s center with the 7kW on-board charger. The inverter, also near the center of the vehicle, turns DC voltage from the battery pack into AC current to supply the electric motor.
The prismatic cell lithium-ion battery is rear-mounted and beneath the trunk floor. The access area for the charge point is behind a panel on the grille. The P400e is available with three types of cables – it includes a home charging lead, which connects to domestic power supplies. When rapid charging, a full charge takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes at home using a dedicated 32 amp wall box. The battery can be fully charged in about 7 hours and 30 minutes using the 10 amp home charging cable supplied as standard.
Manufacturing & Availability
This probably goes without saying, but the 2019 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport P400e plug-in hybrid will offer a lot for drivers. In addition to what we have discussed here, there is a state-of-the-art four-wheel drive system, a host of available advanced driver assistance features, and Executive Seating, which means wider seat frames and additional foam for more comfort.
Both vehicles are designed and engineered by Jaguar Land Rover in the United Kingdom, with production at the company’s Solihull facility. The 2019 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport P400e plug-in hybrid are available now for order; the first deliveries are expected from the end of 2017, depending on the market. Since it launched in 2004, more than 732,000 Range Rover Sports have been sold.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Jaguar Land Rover.

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The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 Can Change Your Mood. Literally.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 Can Change Your Mood. Literally.

Mercedes-Benz rolled out their latest CLS at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show. It has more of everything: tech, safety, performance, comfort, the whole lot. But wait, what’s this? This is very out of the ordinary! It is being propelled by a inline six cylinder? Wow, haven’t seen a new one of those in a long while. I wonder what’s in store, besides lots of torque?
The Mercedes-Benz CLS, which is one of those “coupe” things that has four doors (I see what you’re trying to pull here), has been around since 2003. So whatever bugs were there from the get-go, Merc has probably crunched them by now.
Six Shooter
The real interesting part is that straight six. In broad strokes, the new plant gets something called EQ Boost and a 48 volt on-board electrical system. EQ Boost is a new, “systematically electrified” system that piggybacks onto the conventional aspects of the engine. EQ Boost integrates the starter, which is now a starter/generator hybrid unit, with the 48 volt on-board electrical system to add power as the CLS’s umpteen computers see fit. EQ Boost is available on both the CLS450 and CLS450 4MATIC. The plant puts out 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. of torque on its own, and if it calls for the EQ Boost, that will kick in an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque over short periods. Not bad, not bad.
So EQ Boost is sort of like a half-hybrid set up. Mercedes-Benz does not mention other batteries or separate battery packs, but does note the EQ Boost can assist, for example, when accelerating. They even say it makes driving without the combustion engine possible. For some reason, Merc calls this EV-only thing “sailing,” which speaks to me of serious schnapsleiche in the marketing department.
Other than the EQ Boost equipped inline six, the CLS presents new goodies like a consistent interior color scheme, widescreen digital instrument cluster, and some outstandingly goofy junk called ENERGIZING Comfort (all caps – more schnapsleiche in the marketing department). The latter focuses on wellness (no, really).
The new CLS has a four-link front and five-link rear suspension. An air suspension system with adjustable and adaptive damping is optional. Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
Interior Treatments
When it comes to the interior, Mercedes-Benz really seems geeked out on colors. The ambient lighting lets you choose from 64 (!) colors and even features lighting inside the air vents. Yes air vents. Why? Because that way, when you change the temperature setting of the air conditioning, it briefly changes the color of the air vent lights to show the temperature is being made warmer (red) or cooler (blue). How did we ever get along without this?! The CLS450 is equipped with a wide-screen, high-resolution central display that is more than 12-inches diagonally. If that’s not enough, two more 12.3-inch displays are available. There are three display configuration styles the driver can choose from, depending on preference, mood, or to suit the interior appointments: Classic, Sport, or Progressive. So what.
“The new CLS is a design icon as the archetype of the four-door coupe,” said Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer, Daimler AG. “In line with our hot and cool design philosophy, we have reduced its DNA to an extremely puristic level while emotionally charging its beauty.” Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
Energy Efficient
The ENERGIZING Comfort system is there to link various “comfort systems” in the vehicle into one, harmonious package. The system uses the functions of the climate control, including fragrancing (and yes, Mercedes-Benz made up the word fragrancing), the seats (heat, ventilation, massage), the surface and steering wheel heating, as well as lighting and musical atmospheres. This allows, and I’m not kidding, a “specific wellness set-up tailored to the mood and need of the customer.”
Thankfully there are no pink bunnies involved.
Six ENERGIZING programs can be selected: Refresh / Freshness, Warmth, Vitality, Joy, Comfort / Well-Being, and Training with three training modes – muscle relaxation, muscle activation, and balance – each with several exercises. Rumors have it that Mercedes-Benz is working on more ENERGIZING programs including Swedish Heavy Metal, Talk Radio Anger Bear, Haight-Ashbury, and Dryer Lint. Mercedes-Benz says well-being and performance levels are enhanced. I’m not sure about that, but I can tell you my laughing was seriously enhanced reading about it. Was I right when I said outstandingly goofy junk or what?
Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
All Is Well
The new CLS is equipped with the latest generation of driving assistance systems, including route-based speed adaptation and driver support. Also included are Active Brake Assist, and the occupant protection system PRE-SAFE, including PRE-SAFE Sound which “prepares human hearing for the anticipated accident noise when there is a risk of a collision.” I’m assuming that PRE-SAFE Sound is a recording of a matronly lady quietly repeating, “Es ist in Ordnung mein Kleiner. Bald wird es einen Anschlag geben, aber du wirst in Sicherheit sein. Alles ist gut. Alles ist gut.”
Also thrown into the mix is Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist. In other words, you get more assistance than a military contractor come tax time.
Availability
Look, there is a ton of other stuff here. The Mercedes-Benz press release runs on for nearly three-thousand words and reads like a Neichze-ian screed about the coming uber-auto. Through all of this, one thing is extremely clear: The third generation Mercedes-Benz CLS is an exceedingly well thought out, well engineered, and well screwed together car. Following its debut at the LA Auto Show, the new CLS will arrive in the United States in the fall of 2018.
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.
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 Gallery

Photos & Source: Mercedes-Benz USA.

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2018 Nissan Kicks Makes A Punch In Los Angeles

2018 Nissan Kicks Makes A Punch In Los Angeles

Get your kicks on Route 66! And Nissan has chosen California – the Los Angeles Auto Show to be exact – to reveal the 2018 Kicks, the brand’s newest compact crossover. Nissan’s sales in this segment are at an all-time high and the automaker hopes the Kicks will generate additional growth.
“As the gateway to Nissan’s adventure-ready sport-utility portfolio – joining Rogue Sport, Rogue, Murano, Pathfinder, and Armada – Kicks is designed to fit the needs of singles or couples looking for expressive styling, personal technology, smart functionality, and advanced safety features at an affordable price starting well under $19,000,” explained Dan Mohnke, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing and Operations, Nissan Division U.S., Nissan North America, Inc.
Design Language
We’ve come to expect the V-Motion grille, a signature found on every Nissan today. The 2018 Kicks also features unique wheel arches, boomerang headlights and taillights, and a “floating” roof for a “wrap-around visor” look. There are seven different exterior colors and five two-tone schemes on offer, three of which utilize a black roof and contrasting body colors (white, orange, or red). An orange roof with a gray body, or a white roof with a blue body can also be had.
Interior Treatments
Nissan notes the “Gliding Wing” design of the dashboard, anchored by a seven-inch color display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Those who enjoy tunes while they navigate will appreciate the Bose premium stereo with UltraNearfield neodymium speakers, located inside the driver’s headrest.
Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Power & Performance
The 2018 Nissan Kicks has a little kick to it, with a standard 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder. Complete with a Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System, the engine generates 125 horsepower and 115 lb-ft. of torque. With an Xtronic transmission, the front-wheel drive Kicks is expected to achieve a fuel economy rating of 33 mpg combined.
“With good ground clearance, a high eye point, electric power steering, and small turning radius, Kicks is a great companion to navigate the city with,” Mohnke added.
Pricing & Availability

The 2018 Nissan Kicks will be offered in three grades: S, SV, and SR. All-wheel drive is not available. We would enjoy seeing a Midnight Edition variant for this little cruiser – those special trim packages have proven popular with Nissan customers. Expect to see the Kicks on sale in the new year.
“Pricing for the 2018 Nissan Kicks will be announced closer to its on-sale date in spring 2018, but we are expecting to be among the most competitive in the segment,” Mohnke said.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
2018 Nissan Kicks Gallery

Photos & Source: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

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Imagine By Kia: New Concept Electric Aims To Please The Senses

Imagine By Kia: New Concept Electric Aims To Please The Senses This car/SUV/crossover is the first pure-electric vehicle from Kia.
The familiar Kia “tiger nose” makes way for the “tiger mask” front design.
Kia unveiled the “Imagine by Kia” concept at the Geneva International Motor Show.
Ah yes, another concept EV. The Imagine by Kia is the South Korean car maker’s first-ever, pure-electric four-door car. It fuses the design attributes of a muscular SUV, athletic family saloon, and a versatile crossover.
I have no idea how Kia did it, but the initial results are satisfying, to say the least. It didn’t take long to discern that Kia is serious about coming up with better-looking cars.
Case in point, the Kia Stinger GT.
And with the Imagine by Kia Concept EV, we can rest in the knowledge that future electric cars will have none of the weird and polarizing quirkiness of early hybrids and electric vehicles. I’m looking at you, first-gen Nissan Leaf and Peugeot iOn! Thankfully, Nissan has moved on from the dreary first-gen Leaf to the more normal-looking second-gen car. Sadly, Peugeot remains stuck in the past with the iOn, which remains to be a rebadged Mitsubishi i-MiEV electric car.
And this is where we see Kia trying to break that mold in terms of styling.
Imagine by Kia. Photo: Kia Motors Europe.
SUV Design Cues, Compact Size
Sport-utility vehicles are so popular that a large majority of concept cars are now carrying SUV design cues. Consider the recent Infiniti QX Inspiration Concept? That vehicle is Infiniti’s first foray in the EV segment, and it’s an SUV! Kia is doing something similar here. But instead of being an actual SUV, the Imagine by Kia is a large C-segment car. Think Nissan Sentra, Volkswagen Golf, and Toyota Corolla. Or in Kia world, the Forte.
“It hints at something familiar but is something entirely new,” said Gregory Guillaume, Vice President of Design, Kia Motors Europe, about the Imagine by Kia. “I think of it as a category-buster, and a disruptor – it’s familiar and understood but at the same time progressive and new.”
Instead of the familiar three-box design layout, the Imagine by Kia is styled like a crossover. At some angles, this concept resembles a Stinger on steroids. However, in the front, the Imagine by Kia is oozing with old school charm. If you squint, the new “tiger mask” front has the aura of the Alfa Romeo Montreal and the De Tomaso Mangusta from the 1970s.
“The inspiration for the ‘tiger mask’ was to create the look and feel of the headlamps being suspended within a transparent block of glass,” Guillaume said. “This identifiable lighting signature could potentially be deployed as a unifying design element across Kia’s future electric vehicle range.”
Photo: Kia Motors Europe.
Unique Paintwork
In order for the crisp shoulder lines and tautly-drawn sheet metal to further stand out, the Imagine by Kia EV boasts a unique paint job. The car benefits from six layers of chrome-effect silver paint – applied by hand, of course – along with a tanned bronze tint. The result is a surface that is warm and inviting to the touch.
And as you may have figure out by now, the paint is sensitive to changing light conditions. The effect is hard to ignore. The depth of sheen plays with the light as it hits the surface, further enhancing the curves and contours of the vehicle.
“Kia prides itself on its power to surprise, which is why we wanted to move away from the rational and focus on the emotional, and embrace a warmer and more human approach to electrification,” Guillaume added.
Photo: Kia Motors Europe.
Efficient Aerodynamics
Electric vehicles are not just about powerful acceleration and silent driving. These vehicles need to slice the wind like a hot knife over butter to improve real-world driving range. From this aspect, it seems Kia has all the bases covered.
“The front air curtain; the way the double-skin bonnet channels air through the nose, up and over the front screen and roof; the double skinned C-pillar that creates an air spoiler; the completely enclosed underbody; the wind-cheating ‘wingcams’ and the hard-edged break-away around the car’s rear,” Guillaume explained. “All these features collectively boost aerodynamic efficiency and reduce turbulence and drag.”
The same goes for the wheels. Those 22-inch rollers contain inserts crafted from transparent acrylic glass, which will hopefully survive curb damage. The goal is to refract and reflect light as the wheels move while reducing air turbulence. The wheels are shod in Goodyear Intelligrip EV concept tires. The tires have sensors that feed information to the vehicle ECU.
Fascinating Interior
The first thing you’ll notice in the interior of the Imagine by Kia is not the single sheet of glass for the windscreen and roof, nor the floating center console or the rear-hinged suicide doors. While those certinately command attention, they are nothing compared to the immersive front display consisting of 21 individual screens on top of the dashboard. We all know distracted driving is dangerous but this is crazy.
Thankfully, Kia’s design team has a sense of humor after all, which is refreshing for a global car maker.
“Those 21 incredibly thin screens are a humorous and irreverent riposte to the on-going competition between some automotive manufacturers to see who can produce the car with the biggest screen,” explains Ralph Kluge, General Manager of Interior Design, Kia Motors Europe. “We wanted the interior to have a twinkle in its eye, to be full of surprising and delightful touches that amuse, engage, and attract both driver and passenger alike.”
Imagine by Kia interior layout, complete with 21 screens. Photo: Kia Motors Europe.
Pure Electric Power
We know for a fact the Imagine by Kia is a pure-electric vehicle. However, Kia is mum on the battery specs and powertrain information. At least for now. What we know so far is how the vehicle benefits from a low-mounted, induction-charged battery pack and compact drivetrain.
Whatever the case, the Imagine by Kia concept has huge shoes to fill. It not only needs to be good, but it needs to be good enough to run with the forthcoming Tesla Model Y, Polestar 2, and Audi Q4 e-tron. This means Kia’s first-ever EV must have a range of 230 to 300 miles and go from zero to 60 mph in less than five seconds.
Kia, I hope you’re reading this.
Future Considerations
Besides the ridiculous screens on the dashboard, Kia is on the right path. But remember, the Imagine by Kia is a concept vehicle. We hope the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree when the production model arrives in the near future.
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.
Imagine by Kia Gallery

Photos & Source: Kia Motors Europe.

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Vanquish Vision Concept: Aston Martin Goes Mid-Engine!

Vanquish Vision Concept: Aston Martin Goes Mid-Engine! Vanquish Vision Concept is a preview of Aston Martin’s first series production mid-engine supercar.
The decision takes Aston Martin into a mid-engine sector previously defined by other key competitors.
Aston Martin has been cranking out the concept cars, er, renderings lately. In this instance, we’re talking about the Vanquish Vision Concept. In a lot of ways, it’s both remarkable and unremarkable. Low, sleek, dripping with performance and desirability; it’s everything a concept show car is expected to be. But then you think about it and realize the engine sits in the middle. A mid-engine Aston Martin? Aston doesn’t make mid-engine cars.
Well, they do now.
The Heartland of Luxury Sports Cars
The Vanquish Vision Concept will be one of four mid-engine cars from Aston Martin: The Valkyrie, Valkyrie AMR Pro, AM-RB 003, and the Vanquish Vision (the letter V is flying around Gaydon). Until now, Aston Martins have been very traditional, very British performance cars, with the engine in the front, just the way the Queen and country prefer it. Performance-wise, however, having the lump in the middle is better, so Aston Martin is finally jumping on that old bandwagon and will now start making mid-engine cars.
“Firstly, what a pleasure to revive the Vanquish name. Synonymous with our series production flagships, it felt entirely appropriate to attach it to such a significant car. The Vanquish Vision Concept marks another pivotal moment in Aston Martin’s history, and another critical step in delivering the Second Century Plan,” explained Andy Palmer, Aston Martin Lagonda President and Group CEO. “Our first series production rear mid-engined supercar will be a transformational moment for the brand, for it is the car that will propel Aston Martin into a sector of the market traditionally seen as the heartland of luxury sports cars.”
Vanquish Vision Concept. Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.
Related: How Sir David Brown built a car for the “discerning owner driver.”
Less Negative Space
You can think of the Vanquish Vision Concept as sort of a baby Valkyrie, in much the same way a Ferrari 488 is a baby LaFerrari. The latest Vanquish is not as full-blown crazy as the Valkyrie. For example, the Vanquish gets a new V6 plant sitting amidships versus the V12 hybrid monster found in the Valkyrie. (Although that V6 is a non-hybrid, non-turbo version of the same engine found in the AM-RB 003).
So you can see the range of mid-engine Astons as being a spectrum of choice, from the vanilla of the “plain” V6 in the Vanquish, through the spiced up turbo-hybrid of the AM-RB 003, to the full zoot, straitjacket bent of the Valkyrie.
“The Vanquish Vision Concept has a more seductive and less technical appearance than the Aston Martin Valkyrie and AM-RB 003, but it’s still extreme in terms of visual gestures,” said Miles Nurnberger, Aston Martin Director of Design. “For example, it has a very distinctive clamshell front fender, with openings so you can see through onto the tire. There’s less of the negative space that defines the look of the Aston Martin Valkyrie and AM-RB 003. It’s a prettier car, and purposely so, as it’s been designed to thrive in a less extreme performance envelope.”
Sounds like Aston Martin has all the bases covered.
Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.
Glued & Screwed
Technical info is rather lacking at this point, sadly. The only gearhead stuff Aston Martin mentions is how the chassis of the Vanquish Vision Concept is a custom-made, bonded aluminum affair, developed by mid-engine specialist and Aston Martin Chief Technical Officer, Max Szwaj. Aston Martin employed a more state-of-the-art, all-carbon fiber construction for both the Valkyrie and AM-RB 003, but went with a more established “glued and screwed” bonded aluminum approach for the Vanquish Vision Concept.
No outright reason is given but, to my experience, it comes down to cost. Carbon fiber is expensive to work with and very expensive to repair (assuming you can repair it). Meaning that insurance costs for a car with a chassis made of metal will be lower. Aston Martin has worked with aluminum for chassis bits and sub-structures in the recent past. For example, the DBS Superleggera utilizes the latest generation of the lightweight bonded aluminum structures first seen on Aston’s DB11. Much like Lotus’ work in the same arena, it shows how a semi-high tech, not exactly bleeding edge approach is still a good path to follow.
“Although it takes Aston Martin into new territory, it does so with the benefit of hard-won knowledge, ground-breaking ideas, and an uncompromising mindset,” Szwaj said. “The full engineering story of this car is yet to be told, but what you see here should tell you this car will not only compete at the highest level, but it will do so in a manner and style unique to Aston Martin.”
Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.
Pricing & Production
The Aston Martin Vanquish Vision Concept is scheduled for production in 2022. Although, you know what they say about schedules, especially when it comes to concept cars. No word yet on price. It will likely be less than its other mid-engine stablemates but still more than your house.
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.
Aston Martin Vanquish Vision Concept Gallery

Photos & Source: Aston Martin The Americas.

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Maserati Takes Over The Windy City

Maserati Takes Over The Windy City Maserati North America will have their entire 2018 lineup in the house at the Chicago Auto Show. Visitors will be able to view two Levante SUVs, the Ghibli sports sedan, the flagship Quattroporte executive sedan, and the GranTurismo sports car. The House of the Trident’s portfolio will be on display along with the available palettes and trims. All four distinct model lines have received upgrades for 2018 and attendees can see them firsthand.
Artistic Fashion
The 2018 Ghibli S Q4 on display is themed in a beautiful Grigio Maratea color alongside another in a striking Blu Emozione hue. Of the two Quattroporte vehicles on display, one is finished with a Bianco Alpi exterior and an ultra-luxurious Ermenegildo Zegna silk interior. The second is a 2018 Quattroporte GTS with a dark Nero Ribelle tone. In addition, there will be a black 2018 Levante S and a grey one, alongside a red 2018 GranTurismo MC.
The Ghibli and Levante now come in GranLusso and GranSport trims, previously introduced for the Quattroporte range. The latter was envisioned as a sportier expression of the high-end lifestyle, while the GranLusso is more about sophistication and luxury. The cabin combines a choice of Ermenegildo Zegna silk or full premium Italian upholstery with Radica open-pore wood trim and a leather steering wheel. In short, these vehicles in Chicago are works of art.
The Maserati display at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show, McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois. Photo: Maserati North America.
Technology & Performance
The 2018 Ghibli and Quattroporte now feature adaptive LED headlights with glare free high-beam technology. The LED headlights were developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting, and were based on the Ghibli’s Matrix technology. When it comes to performance, both Maserati sedans feature power-dense 3.0-liter V6 engines with Integrated Vehicle Control systems developed in partnership with Bosch.
Pricing & In Person
The 2018 Ghibli starts at $73,780 and the Levante at $74,790; the Quattroporte starts just shy of $107,000, while the GranTurismo begins at $134,300. Maserati’s display will be open for the duration of the Chicago Auto Show, now through the 19th at the McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois.
Photos & Source: Maserati North America.

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2019 Lexus LS 500h Review: A Hybrid of The Highest Order

2019 Lexus LS 500h Review: A Hybrid of The Highest Order 95excellentoverall impression Quiet & luxurious cabin.Solid engine performance.Infotainment touchpad is difiicult. ProsRide Quality World-Class InteriorConsInfotainment TouchpadOptions Add Up QuicklyIf you think Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo have the market on the full-size luxury segment, Lexus is making a bold statement with the LS 500. When Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda said he wanted to change the Lexus culture, he wasn’t kidding. The 2019 Lexus LS 500h says Europe doesn’t have a lock on world-class luxury and performance any longer.
This week, we drove the 2019 Lexus LS 500 with hybrid technology.
What’s New For 2019
The LS 500h offers more connectivity and safety tech, plus a handful of new styling options. Apple CarPlay is finally available for iPhone users, although Android Auto is still not available. Amazon Alexa allows the virtual assistant to start the LS, lock and unlock its doors, and check its fuel level.
Features & Options: Comfort & Safety
The 2019 Lexus LS 500h ($82,930) comes standard with an adaptive suspension, LED headlights, a sunroof, hands-free trunk, power-closing doors, leather upholstery, and 16-way power-adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats. Other treatments include a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel and a power rear sunshade.
Technology features include a 12.3-inch central display, navigation, a trackpad-style interface, Wi-Fi hotspot, Lexus Enform services, Bluetooth, and a 12-speaker audio system. Standard driver aids include a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and automatic wipers.
The 2019 Lexus LS 500h has a gorgeous interior, and the tech features set it apart. However, not everything is user-friendly. It took awhile to get used to the infotainment touchpad.
Extra Packages & Armrest Controllers
The Luxury package ($12,250) adds a 28-way adjustable passenger seat, 18-way adjustable and reclining rear seats, four-zone climate control, power rear side sunshades, and rear-seat knee airbags. An armrest-mounted touchscreen controls the climate and seat functions.
The Safety System ($3,000) adds adaptive cruise and automatic steering that can detect and “trace” the path of the vehicle in front. Other individual options include an adaptive air suspension, panoramic sunroof, adaptive LED headlights, upgraded wood trim, a 24-inch heads-up display, and a premium 23-speaker Mark Levinson sound system.
Total MSRP including destination: $107,950. By comparison, the 2019 Lexus LS 500 (non-hybrid) starts at $75,300 for a front-wheel drive model; $78,520 for all-wheel drive.
Touchpad controller for the rear passengers.
Interior Highlights: Comfortable & Sleek
Stepping inside the 500h reveals a roomy, luxurious, and comfortable place to spend time. We played with the 28-way power-adjustable seats for 20 minutes, getting them set just right for our week-long drive. The 2019 Lexus LS 500h is stretched with a longer wheelbase, giving passengers extra legroom. Four passengers will fit comfortably for long distances even with the raked roofline, which makes the sedan look smaller than it is.
Extravagance abounds in the cabin, from the dark hardwoods and aluminum trim on the dash, to the ambient lighting and quilted seat fabric. The door panels even feature curved stitching, finished with free-floating door handles and armrests. The large central display screen is beautiful and we think the optional Mark Levinson premium sound system is worth the cost.
In the back, rear passengers will need to duck to get in, but the reclining seats helped our guests sink in and enjoy the ride. The rear seats are perfect for two adults or three kids. We noticed the air suspension raising the car more than an inch making for easier entry/exit.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2019 Lexus LS 500h is powered by a twin-turbocharged, 3.5-liter V6 engine (295 horsepower) connected to a pair of electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. Total system horsepower is 354, with power distributed through a continuously automatic variable transmission. This tester came with optional all-wheel drive.
The big sedan is rated at 23/31 city/highway and 28 mpg combined. The 500h returns just five mpg more combined than its standard gasoline-powered counterpart, but costs several thousand dollars more. However, the extra torque makes it fun to drive which is why we would still favor the hybrid option.
Related: The lion of the Lexus den: on the road with the 2019 GS F.
Driving Dynamics: Not Your Typical Hybrid
The best reason to choose the hybrid is for the instant power you feel from the dual electric motors. And with its ultra-quiet cabin, cushy ride, and advanced safety tech, the 2019 Lexus LS 500h proves that the Germans aren’t the only ones who can build world-class luxury machines.
From the driver’s seat, the 2019 Lexus LS 500h feels like a much smaller sports car. We put the pedal down and the V6, with the electric motors to assist, delivered abundant and smooth power. The E-CVT Hybrid automatic is rather seamless, and we weren’t too bothered with the CVT.
That’s not something we can say about every CVT on the market.
The LS 500h never left us wanting as we pushed it hard in the higher altitude west of Denver. We tossed the big sedan around tight mountain corners, experiencing little (if any) body lean with the adaptive variable air suspension. On the open road, the air suspension’s ride is buttery-smooth and road noise is kept to a minimum inside the comfy cabin. Road manners are excellent, overall, with the adaptive setup. It was easy maneuvering in the city as we commuted around Denver this week.

Conclusion: No Small Doses Here
The ride and the quiet interior will easily pamper drivers and passengers. The 2019 Lexus LS 500h delivers a luxury experience that rivals all European automakers. The LS 500h offers up extra comfort, plenty of storage space, the latest safety equipment, and a sizable helping of technology and performance.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. All of his firsthand reviews are archived on our test drives page. Follow Denis on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Lexus LS 500 Gallery

Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (non-hybrid models also shown).

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2019 Volkswagen Arteon: Not So Fastback

2019 Volkswagen Arteon: Not So Fastback Meet the 2019 Volkswagen Arteon, the automaker’s latest to arise from their now ubiquitous MQB platform. VW unveiled the car at the Chicago Auto Show, billing it as a flagship fastback with an upscale interior and innovate technology. Further to that, VW has high aspirations for the Arteon.
“The Arteon is Volkswagen’s brand shaper,” explained Hinrich J. Woebcken, CEO of the North American Region, Volkswagen. “This car is the spiritual successor to the CC, but it is bolder and faster.”
Underpinnings
The Arteon is characterized by the aforementioned Modular Transverse Matrix architecture, or more commonly known as MQB. The architecture facilitates a “cab-backward design,” giving the Arteon a different look than the CC. For example, the Arteon’s wheelbase is more than 5 inches longer than the CC – 111.9 inches versus 106.7 inches – and is paired with shorter overhangs for more dynamic proportions. Arteon is longer and wider as well, meaning more interior space when compared to the CC.
Power & Performance
The 2019 VW Arteon will jet down the highway courtesy of a 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI engine with direct-injection. The engine creates 268 horsepower, 258 lb-ft. of torque, and is paired to an eight-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard but VW’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system is available on every trim level. The Arteon utilizes a standard DCC adaptive damping system, which manages the suspension’s rebound and compression rates individually to maximize ride and handling dynamics.
2019 Volkswagen Arteon on display at the Chicago Auto Show, McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois.
Exterior Design
VW says the exterior design resembles a “true fastback” and that it “harkens more to luxury models with its wide, planted stance and sloping rear roofline.” Okay, so fair enough. We don’t doubt the luxury elements and the planted stance, but as far as the fastback part goes, in terms of exterior styling, the Arteon is nowhere near as visually appealing as the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe or Kia Stinger. Against those two, it’s C plus at best.
The Arteon is a nice enough looking car, but next to its Gran Turismo contemporaries, the styling barely moves the needle. It’s boring and dry, unfortunately, and filled with significantly more meh than marvel. Still, the Arteon is likely to be embraced by VW fans and should satisfy a good swath of buyers when it arrives.
“Arteon has the style and performance of a luxury Gran Turismo for about the price of a fully loaded midsize sedan,” Woebcken said.
The Arteon is characterized by LED headlights and taillights, a wide chrome grille, and frameless side windows. Dual trapezoidal exhaust tips, chrome window surrounds, and a rear decklid spoiler compliment the standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. 19-inch wheels are available.
Interior Treatments
Drivers will find a host of premium materials throughout that make for a modern and sophisticated feel. Such niceties include standard heated front seats with leatherette surfaces, while ventilated front seats, massaging driver’s seat, Nappa leather, heated rear seats, and a panoramic sunroof are all available.
Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit adorns the 2019 Arteon, which helps drivers mange, configure, and position key data like navigation. The Car-Net App-Connect system, a focal point of the Arteon, is compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink.
Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Availability & In Person
The 2019 Volkswagen Arteon will be available in SE, SEL, and SEL Premium trim levels when it arrives during the third quarter of this year. In the meantime, the vehicle is on display at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show now through the 19th at the McCormick Place in Chicago.
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 Volkswagen Arteon Gallery

Photos & Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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Dodge Durango Upgrade Packages Add Super Cool Features For Little Coin

Dodge Durango Upgrade Packages Add Super Cool Features For Little Coin Ask Dodge any question today and the answer is horsepower! And we’re not just talking about the Charger and Challenger either. The Durango posts up numbers that rival both cars and does so with a lot more cargo space! For example, the new for 2018 Durango SRT features a 392-cubic-inch HEMI V8 with 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque. This family hauler hits 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and runs the quarter-mile in 12.9 seconds as certified by the National Hot Rod Association.
And now enthusiasts can customize their Dodge Durango even further.
Underrated Performer
The Dodge Durango is, in our minds, underrated and unfortunately lost in a flooded SUV market. Those who have an affinity for performance or muscle cars but have “grown up” will find the Durango satisfies both ends of the spectrum. Plenty of room, comfort, and connectivity technology for the family, and plenty of grunt under the hood and exterior styling to match. If the Durango can be labeled anything it most certainly won’t be classified as boring.
This latest round of upgrades focuses on the Durango R/T and SRT. In short, it consists of factory-custom stripes and performance exhaust systems. The Durango SRT, however, will offer a carbon fiber interior option and a lowering spring kit to improve handing. Here is the breakdown of each upgrade package.

Dual Stripes
The dual exterior stripes span the front and rear fascias, hood, and portions of the roof and the tailgate. The stripes are offered in five colors: Bright Blue, Flame Red, Gunmetal Low Gloss (metallic finish), Low Gloss Black, and Sterling Silver (metallic finish). Dealer orders for the new stripe package will start in March for $1,195.
Exhaust System
This Mopar performance exhaust kit was developed alongside Dodge and SRT engineers. The bolt-on system is designed for improved flow, sound, and overall performance. The chromium 304 stainless steel construction is said to improve corrosion resistance while the stainless steel, band-style clamps provide tighter seals. The system is finished with welded and polished 4-inch tips.
The performance exhaust system for the Durango SRT (Part Number 77072487) goes for $1,850 and will be available in the second quarter. The new Durango R/T system (Part Number 77072479) is already available for $1,595.
Photo: FCA US LLC.
Lowering Kit
Like the exhaust system, Mopar worked closely with Dodge and SRT engineers, using proprietary data unavailable to the aftermarket, to tune the lowering springs to the factory-fitted dampers. The lowering spring kit improves the Durango’s high-speed performance and handling, dropping the vehicle an average of 15 mm (0.6 inches). The kit minimizes rear-end squat during acceleration and lessens the “nose dive” effect under heavy braking.
The new spring kit (Part Number 77072488) will be available in March for $325.00. Considering the benefits, that’s a really excellent price.
Photo: FCA US LLC.
Interior Treatments
Last but not least, the SRT Interior Appearance Group features a premium-wrapped instrument panel, Dinamica soft-touch headliner, and accent paint throughout. This package of fine touches is already available for $2,495.
In Person
Dodge is showcasing these new, decked-out Durangos at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show, now through the 19th. If you add any of these modifications to your Durango, send us a picture and we will share it on our Twitter page.
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: FCA US LLC.

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