Automotive

A Roundup of the 2018 North American International Auto Show

A Roundup of the 2018 North American International Auto Show
The 2018 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) is entering its final weekend in Detroit, Michigan. As always, it was full of big reveals, new technology, and outrageous concept vehicles. After following the extensive coverage of the show and digging into the biggest news, here are several of my takeaways and predictions for the year ahead.
Doubling Down On Trucks
In previous years, the flagship models of the Big Three (GM, Ford, and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) have been members of the luxury car category. This year, the major truck reveals from these companies might indicate a plan to consider trucks the new domestic flagships for these brands.
The new Ford Ranger, returning for the first time since 2011, signifies Ford’s re-entry into the mid-size pickup market. It will come standard with automatic forward braking and a backup camera.
The 2019 redesigned Chevrolet Silverado includes wireless charging capabilities. The truck uses various weight-saving technologies to drop 450 lbs.
The new fifth-generation Ram 1500 is roomier and can be equipped with a 12-inch screen for its infotainment system.
The new models are in line with a recent trend toward more tricked out trucks, with all the latest tech bells and whistles. As we begin 2018, we can expect to see truck ownership be just as much about comfort and style as it is about power and functionality.
2019 Chevy Silverado High Country on display at NAIAS, Cobo Center, Detroit, Michigan. Photo: Gino D’Orazio for Automoblog.net.
Less Focus On Autonomous Driving
Self-driving vehicles have been somewhat of an elephant in the room at auto shows in recent years. With NAIAS coming right on the heels of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, where autonomous vehicle technology was a main focus, many industry experts were anxious to see what the big automotive companies had to say on the subject.
Despite the continued buzz around autonomous driving, many executives at NAIAS did not have much to say about it. Aside from GM’s reveal of a no-steering-wheel, no-pedals concept vehicle just before the show, there wasn’t much talk of self-driving cars. Many industry executives are adamant that much of the discussion on this subject is still conjecture, and they would rather spend time focusing on the development of conventional vehicles. In many ways, the show this year seemed to provide a refreshing break from all this speculation, and a return to vehicles as we have always known them.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan (middle) and Cobo Center General Manager Claude Molinari (right) meet with the workers responsible for setting up for NAIAS. Photo: NAIAS.
The Push For User-Friendly Infotainment
In 2018, passengers and drivers want to be connected on-the-go and new models at this year’s show revealed that more brands are ready to meet this demand. The broad category of “infotainment” systems has been growing in recent years. Lately, it seems to refer to any way to seamlessly connect a smartphone’s features to the vehicle. This includes music, maps, photos, and communication capabilities. As I mentioned before, the new Ram 1500 is adding a large screen to make these functions possible. BMW and Volkswagen are also among the brands making big moves in the infotainment direction.
However, some automakers seem to be running into a problem. With the speed at which smartphone technology changes these days, how can the car technology that integrates with our phones keep up? If the infotainment technology cannot upgrade with the phone it connects to, it can lead to a negative user experience. To combat this challenge, we can expect to see major automakers partner with tech companies. Several are already taking a head start on this front. For example, Ford and Nissan offer Amazon’s Alexa in some models and, in addition to BMW and Volkswagen, Toyota and Lexus are expected to add Alexa and Google Assistant capabilities to their vehicles.
2019 Ram 1500 – Uconnect 4C with 12-inch screen. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Big Reveals
For enthusiasts, the biggest part of NAIAS has always been about the highly-anticipated new models. For the most part, 2018 did not disappoint on this front. Among the big releases we had:
The 2019 Mercedes Benz G-Class received a modern upgrade while still keeping true to its iconic original design from 1979. Many are referring to the new G-Class as a “factory-produced” resto-mod.
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee debuted with changes to the face of the vehicle and has an option for a new turbocharged engine.
The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta, the latest version of VW’s most popular U.S. model, boasts better handling with the help of VW’s MBQ modular construction platform. Also included is a rearview camera, forward collision warning system, and Apple Car Play and Android Auto.
The 2019 Forte debuted as a larger version of Kia’s compact offering, with styling similar to the Stinger performance sedan. The biggest change to the new model is its continuously variable transmission, which replaces the six-speed automatic. It’s likely this change will improve the vehicle’s fuel economy.
A modern version of the iconic Ford Mustang Bullitt was on display, originally made popular by Steve McQueen in the 1968 film Bullitt. The new version features a V8 engine, six-speed manual-only transmission, and 12-inch LCD touchscreen – something that was certainly not in McQueen’s version!
The classic Ford Mustang Bullitt rolls out during NAIAS at the Cobo Center. Photo: NAIAS.
No-Shows
Notably absent from this year’s show was any mention of Chevrolet’s mid-engine Corvette, a model which many enthusiasts expected to be revealed in Detroit. Testing for the car has been spotted so the question remains as to when we’ll witness its grand debut. Mazda does not have a display this year at NAIAS and neither does Jaguar Land Rover. Volvo has a smaller setup when compared to years past and Brembo, who was present the last two years, did not have a display this year.
In Person
It will certainly be interesting to see how these trends develop throughout the coming year, and which new models are popular among consumers when they become available. NAIAS runs through Sunday the 28th at the Cobo Center, One Washington Boulevard, downtown Detroit. Ticket information for the public show and corresponding events can be found here; a list of daily activities can be found here; for anything else, the show’s official site is pretty easy to navigate.
Richard Reina is a Product Trainer at CARiD.com and lifelong automotive enthusiast.
Cover Photo: NAIAS.

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5 Really Cool 2017 SEMA Show Reveals

5 Really Cool 2017 SEMA Show Reveals

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

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

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Toyota Announces New Partnership To Advance Automated Driving

Toyota Announces New Partnership To Advance Automated Driving

The Toyota Research Institute (TRI) has signed an agreement with GoMentum Station for the further development of autonomous vehicle technology. The testing will take place on the 5,000 acre autonomous vehicle proving grounds managed by the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) in Concord, California. The CCTA facilitates and encourages what they call “collaborative partnerships” between automobile and OEM manufacturers, Tier 1 suppliers, technology companies, researchers, and public agencies, among others.
Working Together
This partnership announcement from TRI and CCTA is remarkably similar to a story we reported on last week in our home state of Michigan. Our recent experience in Brussels, Belgium at AutoSens further drove home the need for collaboration in the fields of vehicle perception technology and automated driving. While these two partnerships are relatively new, it’s encouraging to see entities in the automotive arena working together, particularity when it comes to something that will change society’s entire landscape. Driverless car advocates point to a massive drop in – and possibly the elimination of – traffic accidents and fatalities. TRI’s automated programs, Guardian and Chauffeur, are designed and engineered accordingly.
“The benefits of driverless technology are many, but the most important one is increased safety,” said Randy Iwasaki, Executive Director of CCTA. “The statistics are clear: lives will be saved by reducing a vehicle’s reliance on human drivers, and we are excited to see the progress TRI will make to perfect driverless and driver-aided technology at GoMentum Station.”
Double Vision
Under TRI’s Guardian approach, the driver still maintains control of the vehicle. Guardian is exactly what it sounds like: an advanced driver assistance system, keeping an eye out for potential collisions, and activating only when needed. It’s always present but not in the forefront until absolutely necessary, similar to how many active safety systems, like forward collision mitigation, work today. Chauffeur, on the other hand, is full automation. Like Guardian, Chauffeur is also exactly what it sounds like: every person is a passenger as the vehicle operates itself.
Guardian and Chauffeur are part of TRI’s Platform 2.1 research vehicle; the video below shows how the technology responds when things like roadway debris and stalled vehicles are encountered. Both systems use the same array of sensors and cameras along with a new, high-fidelity LIDAR system provided by Luminar.
Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Prime Location
TRI will use GoMentum Station for further road testing of Platform 2.1. The facility will allow for the evaluation of certain extreme driving events not yet ready for testing on public roads. TRI believes GoMentum’s varied terrain and real-life infrastructure like roads, bridges, tunnels, intersections, and parking lots provide the ideal environment. TRI’s close proximity (Los Altos, California) to GoMentum Station is an added bonus.
“The addition of GoMentum Station to TRI’s arsenal of automated vehicle test locations allows us to create hazardous driving scenarios for advancing capabilities of both Guardian and Chauffeur, and further develop our technology,” said Ryan Eustice, Vice President of Autonomous Driving, TRI.
“The city of Concord is very excited to welcome Toyota Research Institute and its autonomous technology to GoMentum Station,” added Concord Mayor, Laura Hoffmeister. “The city continues to serve the region as an autonomous technology hub, and we believe this partnership will continue to support economic growth and spur excitement for high-tech jobs in our community.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

Photos, Video, & Source: Toyota Research Institute, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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2020 Toyota Corolla Sedan: Still A Corolla, But Better

2020 Toyota Corolla Sedan: Still A Corolla, But Better The 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan represents the 12th-generation of Toyota’s small car namesake.
Overall performance and efficiency increases with Toyota’s optional Dynamic Force engine.
Since its introduction in 1966, over 46 million Toyota Corollas have been sold globally.
The Toyota Corolla is the Coca-Cola of the automotive industry; it is easily recognizable around the globe. The Corolla was able to achieve all this not by being fast or sporty, but by being practical, solidly reliable, and relatively cheap to maintain.
Hot on the heels of the Corolla hatchback is the new 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan. Needless to say, if the Corolla hatchback is a bit too youthful and exuberant for your refined taste, your ride has arrived in the form of the 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan.
Is It True? The Corolla Is Finally Sportier?
The Corolla is a solid and dependable vehicle. It always was and always will be. But chief among my biggest complaints is the sanitized driving experience. Yes, Corollas have learned to be more refined over the years, but Toyota did little to address the tepid driving experience.
Until now.
The 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan is based on the same TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform as the hatchback. This means the new sedan is wider and sits lower to the ground. But if you still think the new car looks eerily similar to the outgoing model, that’s because the new sedan is riding on the same 106.3-inch wheelbase.
Toyota shaved off the hood height by 1.3 inches and lowered the overall body height by 0.8 inches. This also means the new engine sits lower to reduce the center of gravity by 0.39 inches. The new Corolla sedan also benefits from a wider front and rear track, which explains the wider overall stance.
In order to make the 2020 Corolla sedan more engaging and nimble, Toyota shortened the front overhang by 1.3 inches while extending the rear overhang by more than half an inch. All of these changes are necessary to give the 2020 Corolla sedan a sportier and more engaging driving experience. Think of it as a new Corolla hatchback with more room (and a trunk) and you won’t be far off.
2020 Toyota Corolla. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Feel The Rush: Dynamic Force Engines
I must admit, “Dynamic Force” is a weird name for an engine. But with D4-S fuel injection (combining direct and secondary port injectors), electronically-controlled VVT-iE (intelligent variable-valve timing), and a 13:1 compression ratio, Toyota’s new 2.0-liter motor churns out 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque.
However, this engine (known in Toyota-speak as “Dynamic Force M20A-FKS”) is only available in the XSE and SE trim.
The base L, LE, and mid-level XLE is powered by the familiar 1.8-liter 2ZR-FAE four-cylinder, with 132 horsepower and 128 lb-ft. of torque. In truth, the smaller displacement motor is enough for conventional urban driving. But it’s hard to resist the allure of the bigger Dynamic Force engine, right?
Related: An in-depth look at the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback.
Transmission Tech: Two Options, One Additional Gear
Both are connected to a 10-speed continuously-variable transmission with a sport mode. Unlike older CVT units, this one is equipped with a physical first gear. You know what this means right? Having a physical gear improves acceleration and response. From this alone, Toyota is serious about injecting some much-needed athleticism into the new 2020 Corolla sedan.
Also worth mentioning is the optional six-speed iMT or intelligent manual transmission as Toyota calls it. The new transmission features an automatic rev-matching downshift control feature that allows you to manually shift gears like pro.
The 2020 Toyota Corolla features a two-discharge port oil pump and a variable cooling system with an electric water pump. According to Toyota, this maximizes engine performance and efficiency. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
New Legs For A New Ride
Lower, wider, and sportier platform? Check. New 2.0-liter Dynamic Force motor? Check. New CVT with a physical first gear? Check. In order to further improve handling and stability, the 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan is also fitted with (rejoice!) a new multi-link independent rear suspension.
The old torsion beam rear suspension is getting a bit long in the tooth. It may provide better comfort (albeit floaty at times), but it doesn’t respond well to abrupt changes in speed and direction. Toyota addressed this by installing multi-links in the rear for sharper handling without ruining the ride quality. Bravo, Toyota!
@Toyota did little to address the tepid driving experience of the Corolla. Until now.Click To TweetSportier & More Aggressive Fascia
I’m not a fan of the Hoover-inspired front air dam on the new 2020 Corolla sedan, but it does give the car a more menacing vibe. The Toyota badge is now affixed in the lower hood opening to differentiate it from the hatchback. Higher trim models also receive a body-color chin spoiler and aero stabilizing fins to further emphasize the gawking front end.
Also new are J-shaped Bi-beam LED headlamps that wrap deeply into the front fenders. The SE and XSE trim receive triple J-shaped LED clearance lamps and LED turn signals as well. The rear features narrow combination taillights and a diffuser.
Combined with newly-sculpted fender tops, more powerful fender flares, and the available 18-inch alloy wheels, the 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan definitely looks more purposeful than the outgoing model.
2020 Toyota Corolla Sedan interior layout. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Better Ergonomics & Interior Comfort
The 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan’s dashboard layout looks familiar. If you think it resembles the larger and more luxurious Toyota Avalon, you’re right. The base L trim gets a seven-inch touchscreen while higher trims receive a bigger eight-inch center touchscreen with the Entune 3.0 multimedia system.
It also comes standard with a 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display in the instrument console. Optional is a seven-inch display that sits between the speedometer and tachometer. If you tick the box for the larger display, you can choose between a traditional analog or modern digital display.
Toyota is also emphasizing how quiet the new Corolla is, since it now contains a one-piece floor silencer pad and additional sound deadening material in the dash and powertrain. The result is a Corolla with luxury car levels of comfort and refinement.
Related: A different sort of compact car. Our full review of the 2018 Corolla XSE.
Toyota Safety Sense Comes Standard
The 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan will come with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 as standard. This includes lane departure alert with steer assist, a pre-collision radar system, radar cruise control, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. CVT models also get a lane tracing assist system that helps keep the car in the center of the lane at all times.
Pricing & Availability
The 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan will arrive at dealerships this coming spring. Toyota has not announced pricing as of this writing.
Alvin Reyes is the Associate Editor of Automoblog. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.
2020 Toyota Corolla Gallery

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

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2020 Porsche 911: An Engineering Marvel Considering . . .

2020 Porsche 911: An Engineering Marvel Considering . . . The 2020 Porsche 911 represents the 8th generation of the automaker’s iconic nameplate.
It’s wider and more aggressive looking with a new version of Porsche’s flat-six engine.
Expect a multitude of driver assist systems when the new 911 hits the market next year.
The 2020 Porsche 911 just rolled out at the L.A. auto show, and it further cements, and further dilutes what the quintessential Porsche is. It’s bigger, heavier, more complex; it cranks out more power and gives you more performance. That Porsche can keep doing this, despite ever rising levels of weight and complexity, is an engineering miracle.
However, that they have to do it this way is a disaster.
Simple & Effective
The 911 started out as a brilliant response to a simple question: “How can we make the 356 better?” The 356, for all its fun and capability was, at it’s heart, a hot-rodded VW Beetle in better clothing. The first 911, for all its flaws (they had to weld pig iron to the front bumpers, the chassis tuning was so far off) answered that question in so comprehensive a manner that the 911 “worked” for decades.
Then, right about 1998, Porsche realized you can only push air and oil cooling so far, and the 911 changed. Then changed some more. And it changed even more from there.
Related: Enthusiasts will appreciate this book, which chronicles the history of Porsche.
Which leads us to this, the 2020 Porsche 911; bigger, longer, wider, heavier, bloated and, thanks to the dedicated application of Engineering, the “best” 911 ever. The 2020 911 is loaded with everything the modern “sports” car shopper demands (and Porsche shamelessly kowtows to). And yet, it still delivers sparkling performance.
What do we get for 2020 (besides that smug satisfaction)? Lots of everything!
2020 Porsche 911. Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Styling & Design: Some History, Some Necessity
The new body design is bigger all around, with wider fenders over staggered wheels (20-inch at the front and 21-inch at the back). The flared fenders of the sportier 911s are now seen on all models. New LED headlights flow into the fenders and aim for that round shape of the original 911. The door handles are now flush and the outside mirrors are meant to reduce wind noise.
The rear has that same “light bar” as found across the Porsche range.
Of course, there’s a big honking spoiler that’s appreciably wider with variable positions. Best of all, apart from the front and rear fasciae, the entire outer skin of the car is now made of aluminum. A nice, classic touch but also an engineering necessity because 911s are getting fat.
Related: The 2019 Porsche 911 GT3 RS sounds like something NASA would build.
Interior Treatments: The Wild West
The interior has undergone a thorough redesign, but still manages to be an ergonomic nightmare. I can only chalk this up to “tradition” and the fact that Porsche people actually like when button placement and such comes across as a total afterthought. The tach is still front and center (thank you) but now we have the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system front and center in the middle console.
The seats are a complete redesign, with significantly improved lateral support at the shoulder.
However, Porsche really trumpets the new assistance systems, said to increase safety and comfort.
2020 Porsche 911 interior layout. Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Assistance Systems: Tech Nannies & Babysitters
Those of us that are cynical enough to say it will mention that, yeah, you’re going to need all the “assistance systems” you can find to overcome the physics of having all that weight waaaay back there. Porsche now how the “Wet Mode” as standard equipment for the 2020 Porsche 911. Wet Mode detects water on the road, preconditions the stability control and anti-lock brake systems accordingly, and warns the driver.
You can call up vehicle settings particularly suited for wet roads via a button, or by means of the mode switch on the steering wheel. You know, so that way you don’t spin your brand new 911 off into the weeds like overconfident 911 owners since time immemorial.
There’s also a camera-based warning and brake assist system, standard, and Night Vision Assist with a thermal imaging camera. The Adaptive Cruise Control comes with automatic distance control, stop-and-go functionality, and an Emergency Assist function.
Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Power & Performance: No Worries Here
Yes, yes, I hear you shriek: what about the engine? Here, we have no worries or concerns. The next gen turbocharged flat-six engine has a primary focus on performance. New, larger turbochargers with electrically-controlled wastegate valves, a completely redesigned charge air intercooler, and piezo fuel injectors all help this 911 engine be the best engine it can be.
Everything is better with the 2020 Porsche 911: responsiveness, power, torque characteristics, the whole enchilada. Bottom line: 443 horsepower at 6,500 rpm (23 horsepower more than the previous model), 390 lb-ft. of torque (22 lb-ft. up from the previous model), and a comfortably-wide powerband from 2,300 to 5,000 rpm.
Meaning you should be able to work this thing all day and night.
Pricing & Availability
The 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera S starts at $113,200, which is not unreasonable. You can order yours now but the new 911 should be in U.S. dealers by this summer.
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.
2020 Porsche 911 Gallery

Photos & Source: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.

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How Many Pumpkins Can You Stuff In A Chevy?

How Many Pumpkins Can You Stuff In A Chevy?

Halloween is always a fun time for families, especially when it comes to decorating. The pumpkin is, of course, the quintessential Halloween decoration and the subject of a new graphic from GMPartsOnline.net. The McAllen, Texas outfit has measured the cargo capacity of Chevy’s SUV lineup in pumpkins. Spoiler alert: the Suburban holds the most but the smaller SUVs fit more pumpkins than one might think. When comparing cargo capacity behind the last row of seats, Chevy’s small SUVs shine at the pumpkin patch.
Pumpkin Math
Yes, pumpkin math is a thing. The GMPartsOnline.net team devised this system, rather than loading each individual pumpkin. GMPartsOnline.net is one of the largest online retailers of GM parts and accessories, so it’s unlikely the team had the proper time to toss all those pumpkins around. Instead, they created “pumpkin math” which works like so:
The average, medium-sized Jack-O-Lantern breed is typically 9 to 10 inches tall, 7 to 10 inches around, and weighs an average of 14 pounds.
According to multiple pumpkin farmers, roughly 85 medium-size Jack-O-Lantern pumpkins will fit inside a standard, 36-inch bulk produce bin.
With a volume of 40 cubic feet in that 36-inch bin, it’s estimated there are 2.1 pumpkins per cubic foot of cargo space.
Small Surprises
When the pumpkin math was applied to each member of Chevy’s SUV family, there were a few surprises. Bigger does not always mean more storage space for pumpkins, especially in the cargo area behind the last row of seats. Here are the results:
2018 Trax – 18.7 cubic feet behind the 2nd row, which equals 39 pumpkins.
2018 Equinox – 29.9 cubic feet behind the 2nd row, which equals 63 pumpkins.
2018 Traverse – 23 cubic feet behind the 3rd row, which equals 48 pumpkins.
2018 Tahoe – 15.3 cubic feet behind the 3rd row, which equals 32 pumpkins.
2018 Suburban – 39.3 cubic feet behind the 3nd row, which equals 83 pumpkins.
“We thought it would be fun to use pumpkins to compare the cargo space behind the last row of seats for each new Chevy SUV,” explained Angel Vigil, Director of GMPartsOnline.net. “Imagine our surprise when we learned that the entry-level Chevy Trax can hold more pumpkins than a Tahoe.”
The Tahoe really threw us for a loop too. If you are doing some last minute pumpkin carving and own a Tahoe, it might have to stay in the garage. However, if you own a Trax, Equinox or Traverse, you are in good shape at the pumpkin patch.
“The Tahoe doesn’t have quite as much cargo capacity as the Trax when that third row seat is up, which means it is not the best choice for pumpkin hauling duty,” Vigil said. “The Suburban is the winner, but the Equinox is the surprise.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

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2018 Toyota Tundra CrewMax 1794 Edition Review

2018 Toyota Tundra CrewMax 1794 Edition Review
In a very competitive environment with the top-selling Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Nissan Titan, and Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra makes headway in catching the competition. Introduced for 2007, the current generation Tundra was revised for 2014, and gets some refreshing for 2018. While it needs a major overhaul, the Tundra still offers plenty of grunt and the luxury many truck buyers are looking for.
This week we drove the top-of-the-line, 2018 Toyota Tundra CrewMax 1794 Edition.
What’s New For 2018
The 2018 Tundra gets refreshed styling and Toyota’s Safety Sense driver assist package. The safety technology includes forward collision warning and mitigation, lane departure warning, auto high-beam control, and adaptive cruise control.
Features & Options
The 2018 Toyota Tundra Crewmax 1794 Edition ($50,130) comes loaded with standard features like foglights, variable intermittent windshield wipers, and an upgraded tech interface that includes a 7-inch touchscreen, HD and satellite radio, traffic information, and navigation. The CrewMax adds a power-opening rear window and an overhead console.
Up front it gets bucket seats, leather upholstery, an upgraded power driver’s seat, a power-adjustable passenger seat, a center console (with storage and console shifter), and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Our tester came with an auto-dimming rearview mirror, 20-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, movable tie-down cleats, and dual-zone climate control.
1794 Edition Features
At the top of the heap, the 1794 Edition comes with distinctive styling elements, LED daytime running lights, power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors, heated and ventilated front seats, driver-seat memory functions, and a 12-speaker JBL sound system.
Our 1794 Edition tester came with the optional TRD Off-Road package adding 18-inch TRD wheels, off-road tires, trail-tuned shock absorbers, skid plates, and tow hooks (included with 1794 Edition). Other features included the power moonroof ($850), TRD performance exhaust ($1,100), and TRD rear sway bar ($299). Total MSRP including destination: $54,892.

Interior Highlights
Tundra’s seats are big and roomy, but we thought they could use a bit more cushioning. Controls are large, logically arranged, and easy to figure out. We could even change the radio station without the owner’s manual. The center console is huge and perfect for working in the field because it can easily hold a laptop. A laptop computer will fit perfectly on the console as well.
This 1794 Edition came with brown leather seats with cream-colored stitching, and wood trim on the dash, door panels, steering wheel, and gear shifter. It also featured special 1794 floor mats front and back.
The big CrewMax offers seating for five with leg space for taller riders in every seat. The backseats fold up easily with one pull of the handle, opening up to a large cargo area that’s ready to carry those bigger work items. Toyota listened and opted for the folding seats over the tilt and recline feature. Now you can carry tools or other valuable items you’d prefer to have inside and not leave exposed in the open bed.

Engine, Towing, & Fuel Mileage Specs
A 5.7-liter V8 engine developing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft. of torque is standard on the Limited, Platinum, 1794, and TRD Pro trims. All Tundras equipped with the 5.7-liter V8 come with a standard tow package and a larger 38-gallon gas tank. It was more than ready to tow up to its rated 10,500 lbs. This tester also came equipped with a 4:30 axle ratio, engine and transmission coolers, and an HD battery and alternator.
EPA fuel economy estimates are 13/17 city/highway and 14 combined with 4WD.
Driving Dynamics
The first thing we noticed after getting behind the wheel was the throaty exhaust note. The optional TRD performance dual exhaust system brings the 5.7-liter V8 to life. We found ourselves jumping hard on the accelerator this week just to hear the sound inside the cabin. The 5.7-liter V8 impresses, thanks its generous torque output and smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.
We had a snow storm hit the mountains this week and shifted from 2H to 4H with the knob on the Tundra’s dash. The 4W Demand 4WD system instantly shifted into action and we never lost traction as we moved from dry pavement to a snow-covered highway in less than a few miles. On the open road, Tundra gives the driver a feeling of confidence and security in the extreme elements with its size, commanding view of the road, and all-terrain winter tires. We had no problem passing slower traffic that was having more difficulty with the slick roads.
Ride quality is reasonably comfortable, though rough pavement and the dirt roads leading to our house produced impacts beyond the normal range. During our urban driving, the Tundra handled well in heavy city traffic. The rear backup camera came in handy as we parked the long CrewMax in a tight parking space.
Conclusion
The 2018 Toyota Tundra CrewMax is a capable full-size pickup, and when equipped with the TRD Off-Road package, can deliver in a big way for those using it for hunting, camping, and boating trips. The 1794 Edition adds an extra level of comfort beyond the ordinary and the new safety tech gives greater security on the road.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Toyota Tundra Gallery

Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Tundra Limited also shown (red photos).

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Letter From The UK: Winning Over The Electric Car Skeptics

Letter From The UK: Winning Over The Electric Car Skeptics
The citizens of Great Britain are, to say the least, a skeptical lot. Tell them white is white and they will question how many shades of gray that includes. Tell them their borders are safe from invasion and watch the barricades appear in the streets like scenes from Les Miserables. Offer them a fair choice and they will ask what the catch is. Not that they’re all like that of course; some of them are true cynics.
Slow & Steady
Thus, when they are told electric vehicles are The New Big Automotive Thing, the best reaction you will get from them is “we’ll see,” possibly with an added snort of derision. In short, the take up of electric cars has been slow for all the reasons we now know, including range anxiety and the lack of fast-charging.
It is a fact, however, that the rate of purchase for electric cars is increasing, albeit slowly. Some of the cars are very good indeed and really quite fun, but unless your driving is confined to a local area or short journeys generally, they just don’t measure up. Under no circumstances will we Brits undertake a long trip and be content to sit in a car park for an hour or more just to get a battery boost.
Sales of EVs are not helped by the charging issue. They simply do not top up quickly enough even if you are lucky to find an unoccupied charger or one not broken down, and there’s a lot of those. This really is a scenario where the cart has been put before the horse and it has had a detrimental effect on sales, no matter how otherwise excellent the cars are.
Powering The Future
So that problem continues to be ongoing. It does appear there is a slow improvement although the vacillations of politicians continually hold the entrepreneurial go-getting spirit back. They want us in electric cars and then fail to aid the process. Where have we heard that before?
Fortunately, the automotive industry persists. 2018 is likely to bring many new automotive innovations to the fore along with some striking new electric and hybrid cars (thankfully, for the old school road warrior, also a couple of V8 road monsters like the new Bentley Bentayga V8. Boom! Get this dust in your batteries Mr. Electric).
At the recent global CES (Consumer Technology Association) conference, some technological advances were presented by car makers. Hyundai is introducing a fuel cell vehicle with autonomous features, for example, and Kia was featuring a new, all-electric concept that demonstrated the brand’s future. There is, however, one new development, years in the planning, that is likely to change the electric car market, and also possibly change the mind of UK car buyers, even cynics like me.
At CES 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada, Hyundai revealed the Nexo, an entirely new fuel cell EV, complete with an array of advanced driver assistance systems to expand on for automated driving. Hyundai called it the “technological flagship” of their growing eco-vehicle portfolio. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
In-Wheel Power
Electric hub motors within the wheels are really here. It’s the coming thing and it seems rightly inevitable this is the way forward for pure electric drive. It is entirely true the concept is not new, but that it is now proven to work is the point. A British-based company (Hurrah! Ain’t dead yet World!) has spent the last eight years designing and developing a unique and very versatile in-wheel electric drive system for hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery electric light-duty vehicles. The system can, they say, improve vehicle fuel economy, add torque, increase power, and improve the handling of both new and, crucially, existing vehicles. This indicates no absolute need to necessarily develop brand new models to fit the technology.

I’ll Let Jennifer Aniston Take Over (Joke for TV addicts)
Here’s the science bit: This fully-integrated, direct-drive solution combines in-wheel motors with an integrated inverter, control electronics, and software – no separate large, heavy, and costly inverter is required. Each motor fits easily in the unused space behind a conventional 18 to 24-inch wheel that can, cleverly, use the original equipment wheel bearing. The system, I have learned, reduces part count, complexity, and cost. There is no need to integrate traditional drivetrain components such as external gearing, transmissions, driveshafts, axles, and differentials.
The developer says each motor can produce 81kW, equivalent to 109 bhp, and thus presumably, a basic two-wheel-drive electric car could conceivably produce peak power of 218 bhp and a huge woosh of torque. Put that in your toy city car millennials!

But Does It really Work?
Yes, is the short answer. It has been tested successfully in a Volkswagen Golf although not without issues it has to be said. With the extra weight in the wheels, the vehicle’s drive dynamics change. To counter this, the suspension of the test car was tuned by an independent vehicle dynamics expert. This was shown to work and the additional unsprung weight was handled successfully. The test car was made to handle as well as a standard model. The effect on tire wear was not mentioned and I do wonder about that.
As with any automotive advance, I have doubts it will be plain sailing, but this does seem, to me, to be a worthwhile new development in the advancement of the electric car. The potential for simplified drivetrains and some real enthusiast levels of performance, with both two and four-wheel drive vehicles, is clear.
Sure, it’s expensive right now, but once rolling as it were, further development and economies of scale will solve that problem. With the much-vaunted advances from Ernst Stavro Blofeld and his henchmen at Tesla, and elsewhere in battery and charging technology, it may well mean the electric car will soon make sense for all drivers. If that’s the case you can count me in.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite

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Infiniti Showcases SUVs & New Engine Tech In Houston

Infiniti Showcases SUVs & New Engine Tech In Houston Infiniti will showcase their refreshed SUV lineup at the Huston Auto Show in Houston, Texas through the end of the week. Attendees will be able to see, sit in, and receive more information on Infiniti’s entire line of SUVs and crossovers, although it’s likely the 2019 QX50 and 2018 QX80 will be the most popular. Both feature entirely new designs and technologies for their respective model years.
2019 QX50
The 2019 QX50 was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November with the first production-ready variable compression ratio engine. Named the “Infiniti VC-Turbo,” the 2.0-liter engine can adjust its compression ratio for better power and efficiency. The compression ratio is altered through an advanced multi-link system, continuously raising or lowering the reach of the pistons. Infiniti says this technology offers the power of a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, and the torque and efficiency of a four-cylinder diesel.
Infiniti spent about 20 years perfecting variable compression; expect the 2019 QX50 in showrooms later this year.
2019 Infiniti QX50. Photo: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.
2018 QX80
Those who require a larger machine can opt for the QX80, Infiniti’s flagship SUV. The vehicle made its global debut during the 2017 Dubai International Motor Show in November. Infiniti says it was built to meet the needs of today’s luxury buyers, and introduces a more modern interpretation of upscale luxury to the full-size SUV segment. Such luxury features include handcrafted interior surfaces, numerous ergonomic improvements, perforated and quilted leather for the armrests, door panels and seats, and the extensive use of soundproofing materials.
The 5.6-liter V8 creates 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft. of torque, and powers either the rear or both axles, the latter being known as “All-Mode 4WD.” Drivers can customize the four-wheel drive system via a dial on the center console. Infiniti says this provides four-wheel traction when conditions require and off-road capability when the driver demands. The 2018 QX50 is available now.
2018 Infiniti QX80. Photo: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.
In Person
The 2018 Houston Auto Show runs January 24 through the 28th at the NRG Center, One NRG Park, Houston, Texas. Or right next to the old Astrodome. The Houston Auto Show is the largest of its kind in the southern United States and spans over 800,000 square feet of the NRG Center. Over 30 different automakers are expected in the house, with some offering free test drives just outside the doors of the event.
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.
Source: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd., Houston Auto Show.

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