Automotive

Global Ford Focus Introduced; Inspires New Product Development Trends

Global Ford Focus Introduced; Inspires New Product Development Trends Take a new product development process, mix in human-centered design and customer feedback, and toss in a dash of new technology and simmer until tender. What do you have? The new Ford Focus.
“We’re evolving our successful One Ford strategy to find new ways to create a sporty-looking small car our customers will love,” explained Jim Farley, President of Global Markets, Ford Motor Company. “We’ll tailor which cars in the Focus lineup we offer in markets around the world to ensure we best meet customers’ different needs and preferences.”
Tailor Made
Ford employees spent hundreds of hours speaking with customers from around the world, and the new Focus will be “tailored” to each global region accordingly. Ford says, through the use of globally common but flexible architectures and modules, the new Focus can better appeal to individual needs while maintaining a high level of commonality but low complexity.
Future Ford vehicles will adopt this pattern. In essence, the automaker will move from individual platforms to more flexible architectures paired with modular “families.” This will streamline a number of common components like engines, electronics, and sunroofs.
The next generation Focus has as few as 26 configurations, depending on the global market, versus 360 for the current generation. Ford says the complexity reduction helps lower costs while ensuring customers can more easily find the right vehicle. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Tech Goodies
Expect the new Focus to tech it up with high-speed internet, wireless device charging, and the new CoPilot360 system, essentially a package of advanced safety features. The content of CoPilot360 will vary by region, but generally includes things like Adaptive Cruise Control, Speed Sign Recognition, Lane-Centering, Evasive Steering Assist, and an updated version of Active Park Assist.
The enhanced version of Active Park Assist operates the gear selection, acceleration, and braking when parking – prior versions required the driver to shift the gear and control the brake pedal. CoPilot360 also includes an Adaptive Front Lighting System, a camera-based technology that pre-adjusts the headlamps for improved visibility, like around a curve for example.
SYNC 3, housed in the eight-inch color touchscreen, is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With SYNC 3, drivers can voice control a number of functions like audio and navigation, or climate and connected devices. The FordPass app has a vehicle locator service, just in case you lose your new Focus in the mall parking lot on a Saturday afternoon. That same app doubles as a remote start.
“Aha! Found ya! Thanks FordPass.” Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Big Things & Small Packages
Get ready to stretch out backseat passengers! The new Focus gains nearly 2.4 inches of shoulder room, two inches of knee clearance, and nearly three inches of legroom. Up front, Ford says the instrument panel is “optimized for getting in and out of the car.” Wonder how they pulled that off?! The electronic parking brake and rotary shifter make for easier access to the cupholders. Perfect. Coffee time!
There are even soft knee pads on the center console for added comfort.
And how about this: special consideration was given to the shape of the mirrors to help reduce that air throbbing effect when one window is lowered while driving. Pretty cool!
Those with furry family members will find ample room in the wagon models for pet carriers. With the rear seats folded flat, the new Focus wagon offers a generous 58 cubic feet of space. Ford says considering the needs of pet owners was important during development.
“May I always be the type of car owner my dog thinks I am.” Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Power & Performance
The new Focus receives a chassis and suspension overhaul to increase torsional rigidity by 20 percent. Standard drive modes include Normal, Sport, and Eco, and adjust the engine and transmission responses, steering feel, and Adaptive Cruise Control to match a driver’s preferences.
In China, the new Focus offers the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine or an all-new 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine. In Europe, customers have a 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel available. North American powertrain options will be announced at a later date. The engines can be paired to an optional eight-speed automatic that actively assesses vehicle and environmental information to adjust clutch pressures for smoother gearshifts.
“The transmission shifts so quick, I just can’t even.” Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Pricing & Availability
No word yet on pricing but configurations include, depending on the market, a four-door sedan, five-door estate/wagon, and five-door hatchback. Expect the new Ford Focus in Europe and China yet this year, and in North America in the second half of 2019.
Ford says they will formally introduce the new Focus in North America closer to its on-sale date, which hints at a possible reveal during the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show, or the 2019 North American International Auto Show.
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: Ford Motor Company.

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Lotus Exige Cup 430 Type 25: The “Collector’s Piece”

Lotus Exige Cup 430 Type 25: The “Collector’s Piece” Okay, I am being totally serious here: I think Lotus is messing with us. They have put out so many “special” editions that I am starting to doubt them. Seriously, has anyone ever seen all the special editions in the same place at the same time? At this point, I wouldn’t be surprised if someone at Lotus said, “Nah, sorry mate! We was just havin’ a laugh!” and this all turns into some sort of prank.
Anyway, here is the new “special” edition: The Lotus Exige Cup 430 Type 25 Collector’s Piece.
Name Game
No, that is the real, full name for this thing: Lotus Exige Cup 430 Type 25 – billed by Lotus as a “collector’s piece.” At first I thought it was a piece, like a piece of a racecar or something. But no, this is an entire car. A specially-prepped, painted and limited-run Lotus Exige Cup 430. And yes, like all Lotus cars, it is impressive. It’s quick, fast, turns like the devil, and does the business.
Lotus will be making only 25 of this version, although the name also applies to it being a tribute to the Lotus 25 Grand Prix car from 1963.
Distinct Markings
To distinguish this edition, every Exige Cup 430 Type 25 is finished in metallic Lotus Racing Green, or Old English White, with contrast pinstripes on the front splitter, front access panel, bargeboards (which are new), roof panel, and rear wing, as well as unique decals on each rear buttress. In case you don’t know, Lotus Racing Green is not as dark as British Racing Green, and Old English White was the primary color on the Lotus Cortina (potentially the original sport sedan). This is all the work of the Lotus Exclusive program that combines traditional British craftsmanship with the best of modern design.
Lotus Exige Cup 430 Type 25. Photo: Group Lotus plc.
Power & Performance
The Type 25 employs a supercharger and chargecooler, designed specifically for the unique demands of the engine, which pumps out a very impressive 430 horsepower and 325 lb-ft. of torque. Given the size and weight of an Exige, that is a beautifully grotesque amount of horsepower. 60 mph comes up in merely 3.2 seconds before topping out at 180 mph. Lotus says it’s one of the fastest road cars to lap their Hethel circuit, covering the 2.2 miles in just 1 minute 24.8 seconds.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the Exige Cup 430 Type 25. There is also a variable traction control function, linked directly to the ECU and controlled by a six-position rotary switch on the steering column. There are five pre-set traction levels as well as “off”. . . and this is pointing out the obvious to us gearheads, but we all know how much capital-F, Fun that “off” position is going to be!
Aerodynamic Art
Yes, the Type 25 is road legal, but it is sort of a British version of a Porsche GT3: This thing shines brightest on the track. Motorsport aero can be found all over the place. The carbon fiber front splitter’s trailing lip helps separate and speed airflow under the car. The new air curtain elements on the front clamshell move air through to the front wheel wells to reduce turbulence and drag. The front louvers reduce the pressure within the front wheel arches and cut lift.
Out back you’ll notice the large cut-out sections behind the rear wheels to reduce wheel arch pressure and boost downforce. Put all that together with the high-set rear wing and rear diffuser, and you’re looking at over 450 lbs. of downforce.
Composite technology, according to Lotus, plays a considerable role in the Exige’s construction, with every area examined with the intent to cut unnecessary mass. Photo: Group Lotus plc.
Suspension & Braking
The suspension is as close to perfect as Lotus can make it. That means, as far as you’re concerned, it is perfect. Nitron three-way adjustable shocks and adjustable Eibach front and rear anti-roll bars are standard. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires are fitted to ultra-lightweight, fully machined, forged aluminum wheels. Stopping is done via forged, four-piston AP Racing brake calipers and race-derived two-piece, J-hook brake discs.
Interior Treatments
On the inside it’s all down to business. The Type 25’s interior includes in-house manufactured carbon race seats, themed in black Alcantara, with bespoke trim and a custom stripe for the head and backrest. The door panels and face-level vents feature new contrast double stitching, and the cabin is finished all around in anodized aluminum and carbon fiber bits and pieces. In a nod to the original Lotus Type 25 Formula 1 car, there is a wooden gear selector knob. Sweet!
Curiously, the Exige Cup 430 Type 25 is not all Harry Hairshirt track-focused austerity. There is air conditioning, an entertainment system, including iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, and cruise control. There is even carpet and floor mats. However, Lotus says if you want to be all Harry Hairshirt track-focused austerity, you can delete some of those items.
Sigh. I guess this “Special Edition” Lotus will have to go in my Lotto Garage as well.
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. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.

Photos & Source: Group Lotus plc.

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A Brief Walk Through The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta Lineup

A Brief Walk Through The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta Lineup Volkswagen has released complete pricing information and trim level content for the 2019 Jetta. Based off VW’s MQB platform, the 2019 Jetta made its debut earlier this year in Detroit, Michigan. The new Jetta will be available in five different trim levels, and offer more interior room and technology than the outgoing model. Every Jetta contains a Driver Personalization feature with up to four settings.
Should you find yourself in the market for a new Jetta, here is a brief look at each individual trim level.
Jetta S
This entry Jetta has a host of tech features including Bluetooth capability, 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, VW’s Car-Net App-Connect, and a USB port. Other standard features include 16-inch silver “Rama” aluminum-alloy wheels, LED Daytime Running Lights, chrome grille, multi-function steering wheel, rearview camera, electric parking brake, and Eco driving mode.
With a starting MSRP of $18,545 for the six-speed manual, it’s hard to go wrong if you’re looking for a simple commuter car. The eight-speed automatic Jetta S is slightly more, starting at $19,345. Add the Driver’s Assistance Package for $450 and receive Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist), Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert, and heated side mirrors.
2019 Volkswagen Jetta. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Jetta SE
The SE adds a few more premium treatments like a panoramic sunroof, push-button start, leatherette seats, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The eight-speed automatic is standard as are the 16-inch two-tone “Rama Black” aluminum-alloy wheels. Toss in the Cold Weather Package (available mid-year – $495) and ward off Old Man Winter with a heated steering wheel and rear seats, heated windshield washer nozzles, and remote start.
The Jetta SE starts at $22,155.
Jetta R-Line
The R-Line brings a bit more personality to the party with an XDS electronic differential, 17-inch dark gray “Trenton” aluminum-alloy wheels, gloss-black front grille, fog lights, special R-Line rear bumper, and dual exhaust. R-Line badges decorate the car inside and out while driver’s are treated to a multi-function steering wheel with contrast stitching, and two-tone black and grey seating surfaces with contrast stitching.
The aforementioned Cold Weather Package is available. The R-Line starts at $22,995.
2019 Jetta R-Line. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Jetta SEL
The SEL starts by adding LED Projector/Daytime Running headlights, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a Drive Mode Selection system. The interior can be cooled (or warmed) via 10 different ambient lighting colors. The interior can also be rocked by the 400 Watt BeatsAudio system with three months free of satellite radio. The 10.25-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit can be configured according to a driver’s wishes and there are two USB ports.
The aforementioned Car-Net App-Connect is standard, and the Cold Weather Package is available; standard driver assist features include Adaptive Cruise Control, High Beam Control, and Lane Assist. The SEL begins at $24,415.
Jetta SEL Premium
At the top of the mountain is the SEL Premium with its 17-inch two-tone “Tornado Metallic” aluminum-alloy wheels, fog lamps, power leather seats, eight-inch infotainment screen, and navigation. The Cold Weather package will be included when it becomes available mid-year. The SEL Premium also features the R-Line’s rear bumper.
The SEL Premium starts at $26,945.
2019 Jetta SEL Premium. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Power & Performance
Under the hood of the new Jetta is a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine complete with direct-injection. Billed as the “TSI” engine by VW, it sends a healthy 147 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque to the Jetta’s front wheels. Automatic transmission models come standard with a Start/Stop function which disables the engine during what would otherwise be extended idle times to improve fuel efficiency.
Warranty & Availability
The 2019 Jetta is covered by a bumper-to-bumper, new vehicle limited warranty of six years or 72,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Expect the new Jetta at VW dealers in the second quarter – destination fee on all models is $850.
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: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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2019 Chevy Camaro Lineup Gets Refreshed

2019 Chevy Camaro Lineup Gets Refreshed The 2019 Chevy Camaro lineup is getting a slight overhaul with new designs and updated tech and performance features. The automaker says the changes reflect current market trends.
“Lauded since its introduction for its balance of driving fun, refinement and value, the restyled 2019 Camaro reaches even higher with more of the design, technology, and choices that customers want,” explained Steve Majoros, Chevrolet Marketing Director for Cars and Crossovers.
Performance Upgrades
The new Camaro Turbo 1LE joins the V6 1LE, SS 1LE, and ZL1 1LE to complete Camaro’s lineup of 1LE track cars for 2019. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine found in the Turbo 1LE is paired to a six-speed manual transmission and creates 275 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque. A special Drive Mode Selector includes Sport, Track, and Competition modes with performance readouts and launch control.
The chassis, according to Chevrolet, was derived from the V6 1LE to offer solid track performance. Highlights include the FE3 suspension with its larger diameter front and rear stabilizer bars, specifically tuned dampers, stiffer rear cradle bushings, and cross-axis ball joints in the rear tow links to enhance lateral stiffness. Chevrolet also notes the car’s near 50/50 weight balance.
The Turbo 1LE Camaro also includes Brembo bakes with low-metallic performance pads and a flat-bottom steering wheel. Recaro seats are available.
For 2019, the Camaro SS will be offered with launch control and line lock.
The 2019 Camaro Turbo 1LE features an FE3 suspension and new performance-oriented drive modes. Photo: Chevrolet.
Design Updates
The design tweaks on the 2019 Camaro are as much for performance as they are for looks. The different elements – from the grille and hood, to the fascia vents – were designed to enhance air flow and cooling while minimizing drag. The front ends of each Camaro trim have distinct and specific characteristics to set them apart. The SS front fascia, for example, features an open bowtie, or “flowtie,” along with air curtains, specific headlamps, and an extractor-style hood.
The RS Appearance Package for the LT adds a polished black grille with Galvano Chrome lower inserts, new LED headlamps, LED signature light bar, specific rear fascia with rear diffuser, and 20-inch wheels. The RS and SS also receive new 20-inch wheel designs, and there are new rear fascias for each trim.

Technology Highlights
The 2019 Camaro offers a more “personalized experience” with Chevrolet’s latest Infotainment 3 interface. The automaker says it’s the most advanced infotainment system they have ever developed. The standard layout features a seven-inch diagonal color touchscreen, although an eight-inch one with navigation is available. Infotainment 3 operates similar to how a smartphone or tablet would, and features cloud capability, voice recognition, and a generous array of apps.
New safety add-ons include a standard Rear Camera Mirror for 2SS and ZL1 models which provides a wider field of view and a Forward Collision Alert system.
Pricing & Availability
Expect the refreshed 2019 Camaro later this year with pricing information due closer to that time.

The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.

Photos & Source: Chevrolet.

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Ford Issues Two Safety Recalls: F-150, Expedition, Mustang, Navigator Affected

Ford Issues Two Safety Recalls: F-150, Expedition, Mustang, Navigator Affected Ford is issuing a safety recall in North America for approximately 350,000 2018 F-150 and 2018 Expedition vehicles with 10-speed automatic transmissions, as well as 2018 F-650 and F-750 vehicles with six-speed automatic transmissions. The recall is for a potentially unseated transmission gear shift cable clip.
On some of the affected vehicles, a clip that locks the gear shift cable to the transmission may not be fully seated. Over time, a partially seated clip or a clip that becomes dislodged may allow the transmission to be in a gear different from the shift position selected by the driver.
This could allow the driver to move the shifter to park and remove the key, even though the transmission gear may not actually be in park. No warning message or chime would result when the driver’s door is opened. If the parking brake is not applied, this could result in unintended vehicle movement, increasing the risk of injury.
“Ford is aware of one reported accident and injury related to this condition,” the automaker said in a statement.
Affected vehicles include:
2018 Ford F-150 vehicles built at Dearborn Assembly Plant, Jan. 5, 2017 to Feb. 16, 2018.
2018 Ford F-150 vehicles built at Kansas City Assembly Plant, Jan. 25, 2017 to Feb. 16, 2018.
2018 Ford Expedition vehicles built at Kentucky Truck Plant, April 3, 2017 to Jan. 30, 2018.
2018 Ford F-650 and F-750 vehicles built at Ohio Assembly Plant, April 25, 2017 to March 9, 2018.
The recall involves approximately 347,425 vehicles in North America, with 292,909 in the United States and federalized territories, 51,742 in Canada, and 2,774 in Mexico. The Ford reference number for this recall is 18S10.
Dealers will inspect and verify that the shift cable locking clip was properly installed. If the clip is not properly seated, technicians will adjust the shifter cable and secure the locking clip at no cost.
Second Recall
Ford is issuing a second safety recall in North America for approximately 161 2017 and 2018 F-150 and 2018 Expedition vehicles, in addition to 2018 Mustang and 2018 Lincoln Navigator vehicles with 10R80 transmissions. The recall is for a potentially missing roll pin that attaches the park pawl rod guide cup to the transmission case.
The cause for concern is similar to above, where unintended vehicle movement could take place. Ford states they are not aware of any accidents or injuries involving this second recall affecting these vehicles:
2017-18 Ford F-150 vehicles built at Dearborn Assembly Plant, Oct. 20, 2016 to March 5, 2018.
2017-18 Ford F-150 vehicles built at Kansas City Assembly Plant, Dec. 22, 2017 to Feb. 26, 2018.
2018 Ford Expedition vehicles built at Kentucky Truck Plant, Nov. 28, 2017 to Feb. 14, 2018.
2018 Ford Mustang vehicles built at Flat Rock Assembly Plant, Nov. 6, 2017 to Feb. 12, 2018.
2018 Lincoln Navigator vehicles built at Kentucky Truck Plant, Dec. 13, 2017 to March 8, 2018.
The recall involves approximately 161 vehicles in North America with 142 in the United States and federalized territories, 18 in Canada, and one in Mexico. The Ford reference number for this recall is 18S09. Dealers will inspect the transmission and install the roll pin if necessary at no cost.
For more information on this, or any other recall, visit Safecar.gov.
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.
Source: Ford Motor Company.

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2018 Dodge Challenger GT AWD Review

2018 Dodge Challenger GT AWD Review
The 2018 Dodge Challenger GT is a worthy Mopar and its main competition is the Mustang and Camaro. It has handsome good looks, handles well for a muscle car, is both retro and stylish, and quick enough. If you don’t need the performance of a V8, the V6 is a worthy competitor and makes for a good daily commuter.
This week, we got our hands on the new Dodge Challenger GT.
What’s New For 2018
The Dodge Challenger GT remains unchanged except for a standard rearview camera. It also gets Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.
Features & Options
The 2018 Dodge Challenger GT ($33,495) comes standard with automatic headlights, heated mirrors, keyless ignition and entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and 60/40-split folding rear seats. Tech features include Bluetooth capability, a rearview camera, two USB ports, and a six-speaker sound system.
The GT employs the V6 and is the only Challenger with all-wheel drive. The GT trim adds 19-inch wheels, foglights, rear parking sensors, upgraded brakes, heated and ventilated front seats, and leather upholstery. GT buyers also get a power-adjustable and heated steering wheel, interior ambient lighting, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, performance-related in-car apps, and satellite and HD radio.
This tester came with the GT interior package ($995) adding a leather steering wheel, Harman/Kardon premium sound ($895), nine-inch speakers with subwoofer, 506-watt amplifier, and Nappa Alcantara performance seats. We also enjoyed the Challenger body stripe ($395) and navigation ($795). Total MSRP including destination: 37,670.

Interior Highlights
We would opt for the GT interior package every time. For just under $1,000 it provides nice upgrades, making the Challenger GT a comfortable place to spend your commuting time. The leather steering wheel and seats make the cabin feel a bit like a luxury coupe. The front seats are outstanding, especially in Nappa leather, for driving enthusiasts. They kept us firmly planted during spirited driving. There’s a high-tech 8.4-inch touchscreen upgrade in the GT model with sharpened resolution and quicker infotainment software.
The Challenger GT cabin is quiet at highway speeds even with winter-rated tires on all four corners. We were glad it was equipped with them when the spring snow hit this week. The premium sound system and nine-speakers filled the coupe’s cabin as we made it through city traffic.
If you need to haul lots of passengers, the rear seat is tight and only acceptable for hauling adults a short distance. Getting into the back is a tight fit and the contortions could cause you to see the chiropractor. The Challenger doesn’t have the best rearward visibility when on the road either, but the new-for-2018 rearview camera solves the backing-up issue.
The trunk has 6.2 cubic feet of cargo space and is much larger than the Challenger looks like it would offer, more space than some midsize sedans.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Challenger GT is powered by Chrysler’s 3.6-liter V6 producing 305 horsepower and 268 lb-ft. of torque. It comes mated with an eight-speed TorqueFlight automatic transmission. EPA fuel mileage estimates are 18/27 city/highway and 21 combined mpg.
Driving Dynamics
The GT’s 305 horsepower doesn’t sound like a lot compared with its sibling V8s, but it’s a capable sports coupe able to handle the commute. The V6 won’t eat you alive at the gas pump and it has enough power for any driving situation, short of a drag race from the stop light with a Hellcat or Scat Pack.
The GT with its 3.6-liter V6 is a fun ride with a compliant suspension, yet still firm enough to handle fairly well in the corners. With its paddle-shifting eight-speed automatic, there’s enough power to still feel like a muscle car. The GT isn’t short on acceleration for passing, even in Colorado’s rarefied air. The Challenger GT is an easy car to live with that exudes a lot of style and gets lots of attention from other drivers.
Challenger GT is stable and predictable even on the twisty mountain roads west of Denver. The car offers all-wheel drive for all-weather capability and makes a good daily commuter that won’t break the bank with a purchase price well under $40K.
Conclusion
The 2018 Dodge Challenger GT offers plenty of fun for the money and performed surprisingly well for a V6. Handling is impressive on two-lane mountain roads due largely to the all-wheel drive. In terms of drivability, the Challenger GT is an acceptable, if not enjoyable daily commuter.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Dodge Challenger GT Gallery

2018 Dodge Challenger Official Site.
Photos: FCA US LLC.

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2018 New York International Auto Show Roundup

2018 New York International Auto Show Roundup A New York tradition is the annual car show, always held during Easter week in the Big Apple. You may think of Manhattan and its surrounding boroughs as inhospitable to automobiles, but the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) still draws a crowd big enough to rival other U.S. shows.
In addition to my work with Automoblog, I am also a product trainer for CARiD. We had boots on the ground and were able to bring you first-hand coverage of what we found interesting.
It’s impossible of course to spend quality time with every single vehicle, so our focus was on the debuts, volume leaders, pickups, electric cars, and everyone’s favorite, performance cars, uh, vehicles.
Debuts
Numerous manufacturers used NYIAS to launch important new products. Here are some highlights:
ACURA RDX
Acura’s midsize RDX crossover is all-new. The redesigned sheet metal keeps Acura’s family resemblance. The previous generation’s V6 is gone in favor of a turbo four-cylinder, mated to a 10-speed automatic. Available SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) can send up to 70 percent of the available power to the rear wheels. The interior has the de rigueur 10.2-inch center screen.
CADILLAC XT4
It’s no secret that Cadillac’s sales are below their expectations. After huge investments in new sports sedans, the market ignored them and bought old-school Escalades. With crossovers hot, Caddy smartly decided they need more, hence the XT4, one size below the current XT5. It’s powered by a 237 horsepower turbo four, coupled to a nine-speed auto. If it’s priced right, it should help spark sales at Cadillac.
LINCOLN AVIATOR CONCEPT
Two years ago, I said Lincoln was dead, and predicted they would go the way of Mercury. I was wrong, thankfully. Lincoln is now officially back, and in a big way. The new Navigator is a smash, and this Aviator “concept” is a production vehicle in disguise. It’s drop-dead gorgeous and sized right. Perhaps best of all, it will be built on a new rear-wheel drive platform to be shared with the next-gen Explorer. Glad to have you still with us, Lincoln!

Volume Leaders
Sports and exotic cars are fun, but vehicle manufacturers make their profits from volume. Among the many mainstream cars and trucks on the floor, these stood out:
TOYOTA RAV4
Toyota practically invented the CUV segment with the first RAV4 in 1994. This all-new fifth generation version dwarfs the original, but Americans love them, making the RAV4 one of the U.S.’s best-selling vehicles after pickups. To differentiate it from its CR-V and CX-5 competitors, the optional Adventure trim looks more like a truck than a Cute Ute. A hybrid version is also available.
SUBARU FORESTER
“Don’t fix what ain’t broke” could be Subaru’s motto. The Forester is completely redesigned but looks almost the same. Turbos and stick shifts are gone; all Foresters have a 2.5-liter flat-four, CVT transmission, and all-wheel drive. The big news is inside: material quality and fit and finish rival near-luxury cars in the next price bracket. If the standard 6.5-inch touchscreen is too small, opt for the eight-inch one.
Subaru Forester Sport on display at the 2018 New York International Auto Show.
Pickup Trucks
A uniquely American tradition, the three best-selling vehicles are full-size versions. The midsize truck market is about to get very exciting again, and never rule out the import brands:
FORD RANGER
The Ranger nameplate, gone since 2011, will be back in 2019. Ford had abandoned the midsize pickup segment only to see GM, Honda, and Toyota gladly step in. The new Ranger will have one drivetrain for now, a 2.3-liter turbo four tied to a 10-speed auto. With the regular cab gone, buyers must choose between an extended “SuperCab” or full “SuperCrew.” Expect the competition to answer in kind.
VW ATLAS TANOAK CONCEPT
Officially, this is a design study. Given that it’s built on the existing Atlas SUV platform, bringing it to production should be a no-brainer. It’s a big truck, 16-inches longer than its SUV brother, but looks sharp. Instead of competing with the domestic Big Three, expect it to go head-to-head with the Honda Ridgeline. VW needs this truck if they are serious about increasing U.S. sales volume.
VW Atlas Tanoak Concept on display at the 2018 New York International Auto Show.
CHEVY SILVERADO & RAM 1500
Ford put its F-150 on a crash diet by making it all-aluminum, so both Chevrolet and Ram knew they needed to lose weight. The Silverado is up to 450 lbs. lighter, with aluminum doors, hood, and tailgate. The 1500 will have an optional 3.0-liter Duramax diesel for those who need the torque. Sheet metal is all-new but still a Chevy.
Ram’s redesign moves it away from the “mini-Peterbilt” look it had for 25 years. Rams drop around 225 lbs. and it’s more aerodynamic. If you need to save even more fuel and increase torque, there’s a mild hybrid system available, but regular cabs are gone, so pick either a quad or crewcab. Pickup trucks are proof that competition in this segment is healthy.
Performance Vehicles
“Fast cars” used to be limited to cars. The four that rang our bells this year included a convertible, a four-door sedan, and not one but two SUVs. Who would have ever guessed?
ALFA ROMEO STELVIO QUADRIFOGLIO
The Stelvio is Alfa’s new SUV, and while normal versions have turbo fours and start in the $40,000 range, the top-shelf Quadrifoglio uses a Ferrari-derived V6. Is it fast you ask? It beat the Porsche Cayenne and now holds the world’s record for fastest SUV on the Nürburgring. Bring $82,000 with you and they’ll let you pick the color. I suggest red.
BMW X4 M40i
Car makers keep inventing new segments. Case in point: the X4. Is it a sports sedan or an SUV? It’s both. Jacked up like a truck, but swoopy like a four-door coupe, the top-line M40i gets motive power from a turbo 3.0-liter six, and mixes that with bigger brakes, stiffer suspension, and sportier seats. Sales start this summer at around $61,000.
CORVETTE ZR1
Every American boy fantasizes about a Corvette. Those boys grow into men and many eventually have the disposable income to fulfill the fantasy. While I do know plenty of female Vette fans, this latest ZR1 with its supercharged 6.2-liter V8 and boy-racer wing big enough to serve as a spare couch plays right into the dream. At $120,000 and up, Chevy will sell every one they build.
KIA STINGER
Back on planet earth, Kia, maker of boring econo-boxes, has taken a shot across the bow of BMW and anyone else who thinks they build sports sedans. The new Stinger, in rear or all-wheel drive, has either a turbo four or twin-turbo V6. It can accelerate, it can handle, and did I mention that it’s also good looking? Let’s throw in hatchback versatility for good measure. If I were at BMW, I’d be losing sleep.

Hybrid & Electric Cars
Gas is still cheap, and big trucks still rule the sales charts, but that could change tomorrow. Hybrids have been around for a while but keep improving. And the all-electric segment, at less than 1 percent of sales, has some new entries at various price points.
HYUNDAI KONA ELECTRIC
Tesla has gotten lots of (mostly good) press, but Elon Musk is learning that the competition never sleeps. Hyundai’s new Kona CUV starts in the $20,000s for a gas engine version. There’s also the new Kona Electric, with a range of over 250 miles, and available recharging in under one hour. Pricing is not finalized but is expected to start around $40,000. It’s not a stretch to imagine those unwilling to wait for a Tesla Model 3 will check this one out.
BMW i8
This was a personal favorite just for its outrageousness. Not a hybrid, the i8 is an all-electric supercar, and it looks the part. The coupe model has been out for a while, but the roadster is new. What’s better than going green and having the wind in your hair? With batteries providing the push, the wind is likely all you’ll hear.
LEXUS UX
Another CUV from Japanese giant Toyota, this one wears its Lexus family styling well. Lots of choices here: front wheel or all-wheel drive, gas or hybrid powertrains, with the hybrid expected to get up to 55 mpg. It’s also expected that this could be the first Lexus available “by prescription” as opposed to purchase or lease. You avoid the commitment but get into the brand.
2019 Lexus UX on display at the 2018 New York International Auto Show. Photo: Katelyn Barone for Automoblog.net.
In Person
Sure, you can do all your shopping online these days. But there’s nothing like an auto show to give you a taste of everything that’s out there without the hassle of visiting multiple dealers. Browsers can kick tires; serious shoppers can engage with staff in a no-pressure environment. The New York International Auto Show delivered on all counts for 2018!
Richard Reina is a Product Trainer at CARiD.com and lifelong automotive enthusiast.
Additional Photos: Chevrolet, FCA US LLC., Kia Motors America, Newspress USA.

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Chapter 1: Setting Off From Sierra Vista

Chapter 1: Setting Off From Sierra Vista I’m in the middle of the southern Arizona desert blasting north at 75 miles an hour. I’m at that rise, just beyond the Boarder Patrol checkpoint, when I glance in the rearview mirror and see it all laid out before me.
“Back there,” I think, “is everything I know in a certain sense.”
Memory Reflector
Recently both my parents died, and I have just (finally, finally) settled up everything, and have gotten my ass out of what I can only relate to as being a horrid place to live. Back there, in that rearview mirror is the past. Not just the literal past, where I was driving a few moments before, but my past. My parents house where they retired. Three bedrooms and two baths of stuff neither me nor my brothers really wanted, but a house that now, in my mind’s eye, is some sort of strange reflector of memories on top of memories on top of memories.
It hits me that I am not driving a car, and a limited-run racing special with a “significant” competition history at that. No, I’m not driving a car, I’m driving a time machine. In here, it’s the present. In the rearview mirror, it’s the past. And out there, on the other side of that windshield, is the future.
Cars are interesting things. They’re more than art objects or a way to get dates; or a way to show off or a way to get you from point A to B. Cars are, in their own way, time machines.
And the future is roaring more than a mile a minute.
The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me is a gasoline-fueled narrative by automotive journalist Tony Borroz. It details the joys, thrills, and even the uncertainties of the car-obsessed lifestyle. In advance of the book’s release, we are previewing the first few chapters here on Automoblog.
Farm Boy
In a lot of ways, this was a (lower case r) revelation that was a long time coming. This is not about the passing of my parents, although, in almost every way imaginable, this is all my dad’s fault. Thanks to my father, I grew up in a car-oriented family. The garage – there was always a garage – was packed full of sports cars, antique cars, sensible work cars, and tools, literally thousands of tools.
By the time I knew my father, he was a tool and die maker at an aluminum factory. Before that, his job was killing Germans, and before that he was a coal miner. Before that, he grew up on a farm in rural Illinois in a town that literally disappeared during the Great Depression. In other words, he found himself in a lot of situations where he had to work with a lot of mechanical things and, even more to the point, he had to be able to fix them. So, being a tool and die maker was a natural fit for a farm kid who was, for a time being, a drill sergeant who, for a time being had to Make It Work, no matter what a bunch Fascists thought.
Or, as my dad once put it, “It’s a great job. I get to make stuff out of metal and no one is shooting at me.”
He loved working in aluminum, or ‘luminum, as he said it in his Colorado cowboy twang. “It’s soft, easy to work, and if you know what the metal is doing, it can take really high loads with out deflecting an inch. You can work it to really high tolerances and it cuts like butter.”
Obsessions & Passions
And of course there were cars. Everybody, and I mean literally everybody in his family was seriously obsessed with cars. Partially I figured it was a genetic thing. Italians have this odd fascination with speed that a lot of other cultures lack. We invented circuit racing, for example. All that Ben-Hur chariot racing stuff? The Italians were running chariot races for centuries before that movie was set.
The odd thing here is sports cars. Unlike a lot of Americans, and especially the ones where I grew up, my father had little to no interest in hot rods and muscle cars. He liked sports cars. Cars that could not just go, but go, turn, and stop. Cars that were no bigger and no heavier than they had to be.
Ergo, when my oldest brother, Terry, turned 16 and got a car, it was a Triumph TR-4 (red with the dog dish hubcaps). When my other older brother, John, turned 16 and got a car, it was an MG-B (antique white). When I turned 16, I got a Mercury Capri II with the 2.8-liter V6 engine. The biggest you could get. As my dad always said, “If you’re going to get a car, get the one with the all the hot options.”
My dad seemingly had thousands of those little truisms, some coming from the Army, some coming from the Farm, but the vast bulk of them coming from direct experience.
“You can find lots of idiots that can hold their foot down. That’s not being a race car driver. Knowing when to hit the brakes and turn, that makes you a race car driver.”
“You can never have enough tools.”
“Any oil leak is a problem,” said over my brother’s TR.
And my personal favorite: “Finding interesting cars is easy. Finding garage space, that’s the problem.”
Borroz often recites his father’s sayings in conversation, especially when asked about the mythical “Tony’s Lottery Garage.” While there are many cars in Tony’s Lottery Garage and new ones can be added at random, the one guarantee is available space.
Family Dynamics
My being a gearhead was foretold even before I was conceived. It wasn’t just cool cars in the garage and talk of new limited slip differentials at the dinner table. If there was racing coverage on TV, it was on. If the new Autoweek & Competition Press showed up in the mailbox, hierarchical birth-order and body size clashed against cunning and desire. Before dad got home. Precisely at 4:50 to be followed by dinner precisely at 5:00. Then that week’s copy of Autoweek & Competition Press was his.
And the same went for Road & Track, Car & Driver and any other thing in print that found its way into our home. Did I mention that my dad was a (precise) tool and die maker? Did I mention that my dad was a (by the book) drill instructor? Did I mention that my dad was sort of an anal retentive jerk? He was.
Racing on TV was watched in reverent silence balanced with barely contained contempt for the commentary crew. “These idiots excel at telling ya somethin’ ya already seen.” My dad, of course. The quiet only being broken by the occasional “Uh-oh!” when someone uncorked it. Post race after action reports could sometimes last for weeks. “Yeah, but if Mario didn’t break-” “Yeah, but he did! And the whole point being that Unser-” “Oh screw Unser! That guy’s never turned a wheel in a sports car, let alone a Grand Prix car.” “Yes, but we weren’t watching the Grand Prix, were we? No. We were watching the USAC race at Ontario.” “Which just proves my point . . . ”
And on it went.
I swear my brothers would still devolve into an argument about whether Richie Ginther really was robbed at that race at Torrey Pines that one day.
Remarkable Parallels
I realize, of course, this is not all that different from baseball families (“Oh Lou Gehrig my butt!”) or basketball families (“Yeah, but Bill Russell was playing against little white guys!”) or, perish the thought, families who were sadly obsessed with [shudder] golf.
Years ago I had the great opportunity to work on some pre-packaged TV coverage of formula racing. One of the racers involved in Formula Atlantic at that time was a guy named Mark Dismore (who was having a knock-down-drag-out championship battle with Hiro Matsushita). Finished with his interview, we were hanging out with Dismore back at the transporter in the paddock. The show’s producer, this really nice guy named Tommy Coggins who worked as a shooter with me on many a gig, asked Dismore, “So how did you get into doing something like racing?”
Tommy was a baseball guy. He had never really watched racing on TV, let alone been to a race, let alone seeing how close to unmitigated disaster these guys worked. It pretty much put the zap on his head, seeing it in person. His question was more akin to, “You go out and face off against a bull with a piece of cloth?!”
“Oh, you know,” Dismore said with a resigned smile. “Family. My dad raced. My uncle ran a machine shop. You know. Some people grow up in baseball families, and some people grow up in basketball families, I grew up in a racing family.”
Dismore delivered it with that “it’s kinda obvious” tone.
Tommy Coggins didn’t get it right away, but I did.
The Road Ahead
My predilections were pre-ordained, but my future was not. Indeed our future, the future of the gearheads and automotive enthusiasts of this world, are seemingly more and more in doubt with every passing day. Gearheads in the 50s had a secure gearhead future to look forward to. “20 years from now? Well shoot, cars will be powered by jet engines and cruising at a hundred miles an hour on pool-table-smooth superhighways!” That’s what we, the gearheads, would have been saying in 1958.
Now? In 2018? You tell me where cars will be by 2038? Will there still be cars? If there are, will we be allowed to drive them?
That . . . this . . . all of this, my father, my family, where cars and racing were, where cars and racing will be . . . all of this washes through my mind as I blast through the desert at 80, one eye in the rearview mirror, one eye on the road ahead.
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. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.

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2019 Hyundai Kona Electric: Compact, Efficient & Strong

2019 Hyundai Kona Electric: Compact, Efficient & Strong There’s no word on how much Hyundai will ask for their new 2019 Kona Electric, but you have to guess it would be cheaper than a Tesla Model X. The Model X runs for around $110,000 on average, and I bet for that price you could buy three, maybe four 2019 Hyundai Kona Electrics. Consider that, and also consider that Hyundai, as a company, isn’t going away any time soon.
I know that might not be all that fair, given Tesla’s preeminence in the EV world, but you have to keep in mind that Tesla is a very new company. And even if it was started with the best of intentions, no shortage of cash and ground-breaking technology, the road to competing in the car market is littered with other such noble failures from Tucker up to and including Elio.
Platform & Technology
The new Kona Electric is, apart from the EV drivetrain, just like a regular Kona. It rides on the same long wheelbase with short overhangs and wide track underpinned by a MacPherson strut front suspension, a multi-link rear suspension, and standard 17-inch alloy wheels. The Kona EV uses the same hot-stamping methods to produce lightweight, ultra-strong structural elements to maximize the cabin’s central safety cell. It has the same active safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist, and Driver Attention Warning.
And the 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric also has all the standard infotainment one would expect: Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM Radio, HD Radio, and Blue Link LTE-powered connectivity. The standard seven-inch color LCD display includes auxiliary inputs, voice recognition, and a Rear View Monitor. The available eight-inch touchscreen navigation display includes traffic flow and incident data via HD radio, Infinity premium audio, Clari-Fi music-restoration technology, and smartphone integration.
These “Blue Link” services are a big deal to Hyundai and all Kona Electric models include a complimentary three-year term. Blue Link has enhanced safety, diagnostic, and remote and guidance services, along with a list of connectivity tech: Google Home, Remote Start with Climate Control, Destination Search by Voice, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Car Finder, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Recovery. The Kona Electric adds exclusive EV-oriented features such as Remote Charge Management, Charge Scheduling, EV Power History, and EV Range.
Hyundai anticipates some Kona Electric buyers will be downsizing from larger and/or higher-end vehicles. That said, the Kona Electric offers premium options, like a larger gauge cluster, heads-up display, power driver’s seat, and heated leather seats. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Power & Performance
But it is, naturally, the EV features that will set the Kona Electric apart. The powertrain employs a high-efficiency 150 kW permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor supplied by a high-voltage 64 kWh lithium-ion battery. That’s good enough for 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft. of torque delivered to the front wheels. The battery system is liquid-cooled and operates at 356 volts. Battery pack energy density is 141.3 Wh/kg (greater than a Chevy Bolt Hyundai notes) with a total system weight under 1,000 lbs.
The Kona Electric utilizes a Level-II on-board charging system capable of a 7.2 kW rate of charge for rapid recharging. The estimated range of the Kona Electric is a – “generous” according to Hyundai – 250 miles. Not as good as a Model X, but still pretty good. Eighty percent charge can be had in 54 minutes with a Level-III quick charge. The 100 kW DC fast-charging capability is standard all Kona Electrics and for your charging convenience, the port is located in the front grille area.
The new Kona Electric employs a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension designed for agility and comfort on a variety of surfaces. The rear control arms are designed to minimize camber and toe changes throughout the suspension. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Handy Tools
The other interesting thing found on the Kona Electric is the MyHyundai with Blue Link app. With this nifty little gizmo you can manage and monitor the Kona Electric remotely.
If you live in an area with different electric rates at off-peak times, you can schedule the Kona Electric to charge to reduce cost and peak demand on the electric grid based on time and date. For example, you could set up a charging schedule to start at 10 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays on a weekly basis. Handy! Blue Link again for the win.
Manufacturing & Availability
The 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric will be produced in Ulsan, Korea and will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year.
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. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor America.

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