2020 Porsche 911 Carrera S & 4S Cabriolet: More Ponies, More Fun!

2020 Porsche 911 Carrera S & 4S Cabriolet: More Ponies, More Fun! The 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera S and 4S Cabriolet get a boost in engine performance.
Night Vision Assist, a manual transmission, and the Sport Chrono Package are optional. 
Hey, the new 911 Cabrios are here! Specifically, the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera S & 4S Cabriolet. What do you get? What’s so special this time around? Oh, this and that; gizmos and fender flares; a better soft top; improvements to stuff that lives on the dash. Those sort of things. But all you’re really going to care about is this: 443 horsepower and 390 lb-ft. of torque.
Yeah baby!
Cozy & Quick
Yes, if you want to divide things that way, the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera S and 4S Cabriolet will be the most cushy and boulevard cruiser-y of the bunch. But, 443 ponies and 390 lb-ft. of grunt means there will be lots of fun to be had, despite the lack of Spartan leanings.
The turbocharged flat-six engine in the latest 911 Cabriolet gets the same upgrades found on the recently introduced Coupe. Namely new piezo fuel injectors, larger turbos, and a new layout for the charge air cooling system. That 443 horsepower is an increase of 23 over the outgoing model. The eight-speed PDK dual clutch transmission in the rear-wheel drive version scoots the 911 to 60 in just 3.7 seconds. Nice!
Even nicer, the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet with all-wheel drive does it in 3.6 seconds. Both cars are 0.4 seconds faster than the previous model by the way.
2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet. Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Sport Chrono Package/Manual Transmission: You Want These!
If you get the optional Sport Chrono Package, you shave off a further 0.2 seconds. I’d say get the Sport Chrono Package. Top “track” speeds are now 190 mph for the rear driver, and 188 for the all-wheel drive variety. Porsche says a manual transmission is coming at a later date. Gearheads say yay!
The PASM Sport Suspension with stiffer springs and sway bars, plus a 0.39 inch (10 mm) lower ride height is optionally available.
Related: The 2019 Porsche 911 GT3 RS sounds like something NASA would build.
Safety Systems & Interior Technology
The new drop tops now feature a Wet Mode, which detects water on the road, preconditions the stability control and anti-lock brake systems to suit, and warns the driver. There’s a camera-based warning and brake assist system, also standard, that detects a potential collision with other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists and such. It warns you, or, kicks in emergency braking to help when necessary.
Night Vision Assist with a thermal imaging camera is an option.
The interior is completely new. The dash features the centrally-positioned tach, characteristic of Porsche, and two thin, frameless, free-form displays for driver information. The new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) is larger with a 10.9-inch touchscreen display, up from seven inches.
2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet interior layout. Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Spoilers, Light Bars & Drop Tops
Yes, they’ve widened the body. To keep the proportions right – thanks to the 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels – body width increased by 45 millimeters (1.77 inches), making room for a wider front track. Styling-wise, updates include flush electric door handles that extend outward, new LED headlights, and different contours for the front luggage compartment lid. There’s a significantly wider, variable-position rear spoiler and that “light bar” deal found on all current Porsches? Yes, it’s there on these 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera models.
Even more importantly: the entire outer skin is now made of aluminum. Huzzah!
The top, which is still old school fabric, takes 12 seconds to open or close with the new hydraulics. The top is capable of being opened and closed at speeds of up to 31 mph, which is so cool to do when you’re leaving the malt shop. Oh, and there’s an electric wind deflector to reduce drafts during top-down driving.
Pricing & Availability
The 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet has a base price of $126,100, while the Carrera 4S Cabriolet starts at $133,400. Yes, that’s a lot of money. But also yes, Porsche cars have always been on the expensive side. The 2020 911 Cabrios are expected to reach U.S. dealers late 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 Carrera 4S Cabriolet Gallery








Photos & Source: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.



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2020 Ford Explorer: History Repeats Itself

2020 Ford Explorer: History Repeats Itself The 2020 Ford Explorer arrives as Americans demand more and more SUVS.
Ford analyzed consumer feedback and designed the 2020 Explorer accordingly. 
New, more powerful engines compliment a host of convenience and safety tech.
In March of 1990, minivans broke into a cold sweat when the 1991 Ford Explorer moved into the neighborhood. While the two-door Explorer “Sport” helped the single crowd pursue all things 90s, the four-door became a viable option for families. Contrasting the minivan, the Explorer still had cargo space (81 cubic feet in 1991), kid-friendly features (child-proof rear door locks by 1992), and a ruggedness reserved for trucks (an advanced 4×4 system arrived in 1995).
A luxurious Eddie Bauer option meant these “truck-like” rides were even comfortable.
By Popular Demand
Today, Americans seek trucks and SUVs more than any other type of vehicle. According to the Associated Press, new vehicle sales in the United States rose 0.3 percent over a year ago to 17.27 million vehicles. By comparison, cars made up 32 percent of the pie, while trucks and SUVs accounted for 68 percent. Traditional cars are fading from view, evidenced by recent model cancellations and the race to win younger generations over with SUVs and crossovers.
The 2020 Ford Explorer will likely ride this rising wave of consumer demand all the way to the bank. Yet keeping the Explorer relevant, now 30 years on, has its challenges. Luckily for Ford, we consumers are somewhat predictable. We want our cake. We want to eat it too. And Facebook.
“Explorer drivers told us what they want – more capability, more power, more space,” explained Hau Thai-Tang, Ford’s Head of Product Development and Purchasing. “They want more technology, not just for the driver, but for the whole family. And they want all of it with a beautifully sporty exterior.”
“We obsessed about what Explorer customers need and want,” added Bill Gubing, Explorer Chief Engineer. “We met with customer groups, pored through internet forums, and dissected social media posts to determine what they love about today’s Explorer and understand their pain points. Then we found ways to improve it across the board.”
Here is an in-depth look at those “improvements” in the 2020 Ford Explorer.
Six generations of the Ford Explorer. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Power & Performance: Turbo City
The Ford Explorer’s first 4.0-liter V6 delivered 155 horsepower and 220 lb-ft. of torque. An all-aluminum, single-overhead cam 4.6-liter V8 appeared in 2006 along with a six-speed automatic.
And my how things have changed.
The 2020 Ford Explorer leverages two of the automaker’s multi-platform EcoBoost engines for V8-like power. The EcoBoost is famous for turbo charging in lieu of larger displacement, becoming an overnight sensation after teaming with the 2011 F-150. In reality, the EcoBoost existed well before the 2011 F-150 but that’s a story for another time.
Concerning the new Explorer, the top EcoBoost, a V6 plant, is projected for 365 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque on 93 octane. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost, an in-line four by contrast, is projected for 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. of torque. Here’s something to chew on: The 1996 Ford Explorer had 215 horsepower and 280 lb-ft. of torque. With a 5.0 V8.
When properly equipped, the 3.0-liter EcoBoost tows up to 5,600 lbs., a 12 percent increase over the 3.5-liter EcoBoost it replaces. The 2.3-liter gets a solid bump in towing capacity too, now tugging 5,300 lbs. with a Class III Trailer Tow Package versus its current 3,000 lbs. rating.
2020 Ford Explorer Platinum. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Lucky #7: Drive Modes
With the available Terrain Management System, the 2020 Ford Explorer offers seven different drive modes, although there is a caveat. The new Explorer is predicated upon a rear-wheel drive architecture, which according to Ford, enables a sportier, more athletic design, improved driving capabilities etc. etc.
And fair enough.
That said, real-wheel drive Explorers receive only six drives modes, excluding Deep Snow/Sand. Here is what they look like:
#1. Normal
Exactly what it sounds like. Use for everyday driving.
#2. Sport
Increases throttle and steering responses while the suspension stiffens. The transmission holds gears longer to increase acceleration.
#3. Eco
If Sport Mode were Red Bull, this is carbonated water.
#4. Tow/Haul
This mode makes the transmission more efficient when towing. Tow/Haul is especially handy when climbing hills as it keeps the transmission out of overdrive. When cresting a hill, pressing the brake pedal in this mode facilates engine braking.
#5. Slippery
When Wet. Bon Jovi anyone? Slippery mode adjusts pedal response, traction control, and the transmission when ice or gravel is present. Ford says this mode even works on grass. So now you can park on your front lawn. Also, side note, the Explorer offers a 980-watt, 14-speaker B&O premium audio system. What’s your favorite Bon Jovi album now?
#6. Deep Snow/Sand
Similar to Slippery, this mode adjusts the pedal response, traction control, and the transmission for heavier snow and sand.
#7. Trail
When canvassing those muddy, uneven back roads, use this mode.
With the available Terrain Management System, the 2020 Ford Explorer offers seven different drive modes. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Captain & Co-Pilot: Safety & Security
2002 was a milestone year for the Explorer in terms of safety. Ford’s AdvanceTrac stability control was introduced, along with four-wheel antilock braking and electronic brake force distribution. Ford’s Personal Safety System featured dual-stage driver and front-passenger airbags, their deployment based on crash severity, driver’s seat position, and front occupant safety-belt usage.
Fast forward 18 years to Co-Pilot360, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, standard on the 2020 Ford Explorer. Co-Pilot 360 includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, and Evasive Steering Assist – all to help avoid a collision. Post impact, Co-Pilot 360 deploys the brakes to lessen the impact of a secondary collision.
Blind Spot Information with Cross-Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control with Speed Sign Recognition, and a review camera are also part of Co-Pilot 360.
“It’s not about filling the vehicle with technology for technology’s sake,” said Chris Billman, Ford Co-Pilot360 Engineering Manager. “It’s about improving the experience, making driving less stressful, and helping the driver to feel more confident behind the wheel.”
Those who live in bustling neighborhoods may consider adding the available Reverse Brake Assist. The feature uses radar and ultrasonic sensors to detect objects while backing up, applying the brakes automatically if something gets too close. Useful especially for exiting the driveway. Reverse Brake Assist is an enhanced version of the original Reverse Sensing, which first appeared on the Explorer in 1999.
The Lane-Keeping System, part of Co-Pilot 360, helps the 2020 Ford Explorer remain steady on the open road. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Beam Me Up: Technology & Connectivity
Everything but the kitchen sink! (and that might even be in there somewhere with the new Explorer’s 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space). Passengers in all three rows can settle in with FordPass Connect, a standard feature that serves up 4G LTE Wi-Fi for up to 10 mobile devices. For drivers, FordPass Connect gives them remote access to their Explorer via their phone.
They can lock, unlock, locate and start the SUV, and monitor vehicle diagnostics from the app.
A tablet-like touchscreen display resides on the center stack, employing capacitive glass to mimic the feel of our modern smartphones. The standard SYNC 3 infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Waze navigation.
Keeping the juice flowing should be easy in the 2020 Ford Explorer. There’s an available wireless charging pad, up to four USB ports, including new type-C outlets, up to three 12-volt outlets, and a 110-volt outlet. And to think, back in 2007, an auxiliary input for the stereo became standard equipment for the Explorer. That was a big deal back then.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Putting It All Together
The 2020 Ford Explorer comes in base, XLT, Limited, Limited Hybrid, ST, and Platinum flavors. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost is standard on base, XLT, and Limited, with the Platinum getting the larger V6. Both are paired to a new 10-speed automatic. 18-inch wheels are standard although Platinum models come with 21-inchers. In total, there are seven wheel designs on offer.
Naturally, the Platinum gets all the fixin’s: door handles with satin aluminum inserts, liftgate appliqué, roof-rack side rails, moonroof, leather seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Expect the 2020 Ford Explorer this summer. The Chicago Assembly Plant has production honors.
Carl Anthony 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. Before returning to school, he simultaneously held product development and experiential marketing roles in the automotive industry. 
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Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.



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Letter From The UK: Crunch Time Across The Pond

Letter From The UK: Crunch Time Across The Pond We are not quite panicking yet over the impending arrival of 29 March 2019 and the UK exit (or ‘Brexit’) from the European Union, but we’re certainly getting a bit edgy. You see, for the average member of the British public watching politicians floundering about like gasping fish on a riverbank, there is an increasing feeling of helplessness. Do we take the deal as offered by our flaccid government or do we go the full ‘No Deal,’ which effectively is like a yawning black hole of economic uncertainty.
There may be trouble ahead.
No Room For No Deal
For the motor industry time is running very short indeed. It seems to be the ‘No Deal’ option must be taken off the table or risk, we are told, destroying the UK automotive industry; thus risking the hundreds of thousands of jobs it supports. This at least is the view of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). ‘No Deal’ with the EU would have an immediate and devastating impact upon the industry, halting production, undermining competitiveness and causing irreversible and severe damage, they say.
There are of course an equal number of voices that say it won’t. What is certain is that the European car industry as a whole relies upon a ‘just in time’ structure when it comes to the import and export of car parts and the like. Delays at national borders would fundamentally undermine just-in-time manufacturing thus stopping production, with trade tariffs adding at least £4.5 billion to industry costs, again they say (SMMT figure).
Competitiveness would as a consequence be adversely affected.
What is understandable is the fact that automotive businesses are rightly exasperated by the current situation with only weeks until Brexit is actioned. Industry has been unequivocal about the impact of ‘No Deal’ although some more entrepreneurial types say it won’t be a big problem. Car manufacturers believe it’s the responsibility of all politicians to rule out ‘No Deal’ and all effort should be focused instead on delivering a solution that provides for a status quo transition; and a future relationship with the EU that has frictionless trade at its heart.
Related: Our Members of Parliament are just like the contestants on The Apprentice.

Contingency Plans: Managing The System Shock
While many companies have begun implementing contingency arrangements for a ‘No Deal’ Brexit, it is impossible for any individual company to fully mitigate the risks of this scenario. UK Automotive’s complex and integrated supply chain works on the basis of parts arriving at plants timed to the minute, not the day or the week. The alleged border chaos caused by a ‘No Deal’ scenario would render this process impossible with warehousing not a viable option given the scale of production.
Furthermore, the hundreds of small businesses across the UK supply chain are unlikely to have the time or resources to prepare for the huge and immediate changes to their trading conditions. Such a shock to the system cannot be “managed,” leaving them and their workforces to bear the brunt of a ‘No Deal.’
That’s the official industry line.

Those increasingly and insanely crying WOLF! at the top of their voices have had the effect of causing a sort of weary public lethargy instead of the pro #Europe backlash they hoped for.Click To TweetProject Fear & Fake News
The counter of this, which hardens the heart of those who wish to leave the Union regardless, is ‘Project Fear.’ This lively and increasingly bizarre ‘fake news’ debate, designed to influence people’s thinking, highlights all the possible things that will go wrong if Britain leaves without a deal. There have been untold numbers of horror stories including almost immediate water shortages (The UK is famous for its rain) and food and drug shortages as if we don’t have farmers and pharmaceuticals in this country.
A plague of locusts has not yet been invoked, but give it time.
In short, those increasingly and insanely crying WOLF! at the top of their voices have had the effect of causing a sort of weary public lethargy instead of the pro-Europe backlash they hoped for.
Related: The long last leg of Brexit has eliminated the middle ground.

Sales Are Slipping
Nevertheless, the car business is one of the UK’s most valuable assets, employing almost one million people and delivering £20.2 billion to the economy. Since 2010, car production alone has risen by a third, with 80 percent bound for export, the majority to the EU. 2.7 million new cars are traded between the UK and EU each year, while the UK exports some £3.4 billion worth of components to help build vehicles across Europe (statistics courtesy of SMMT).
British car production fell by a substantial 19.6 percent in November 2018, with 129,030 units manufactured, according to SMMT figures. This is a continuation of recent trends, weaker demand in the UK, and in key European and Asian export markets exacerbated by the ongoing impact of new regulation alongside planned model and technology changes.
Clear & Present Dangers: Profit & Politics
With other areas of the economy seeming reasonably buoyant we can’t yet entirely put the decline in the auto industry firmly at the door of Brexit, although it is hard to see it otherwise given the gloomy forecast of the industry. That said, there is a school of thought that suggests, ‘well, they would say that wouldn’t they,’ hinting that it is the profit motive not national concern that lies at the bottom of the murky pond.
At this stage it does seem clear though that when you wipe away the hot, fetid breath of panic from the mirror of the future, there is a clear and present danger to the motor industry both in the UK and within Europe. It needs to be sorted out swiftly but the worry is that with all the governmental in-fighting (and the USA is not immune to this, we hear) the people in power seem incapable of doing the job we pay them to do.
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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American and Chinese buyers drive growth at supercar maker McLaren

American and Chinese buyers drive growth at supercar maker McLaren

zzzRecord sales of supercars at McLaren Automotive has helped the luxury British auto maker buck slumping demand for new vehicles in 2018.

The manufacturer of high-performance sports cars, costing as much as £1.75 million, released its annual figures on Monday showing global sales grew 43.9% to 4,806 in 2018, boosted by strong demand in China in particular.

The update comes as separate figures released today showed new car sales in Britain fell at their fastest rate since the 2008 global financial crisis last year.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) cited fears about diesel as a major factor for registrations dropping 6.8% to 2.37 million vehicles.

The industry organization, which is funded by the big European car makers, repeated its claim that Britain’s departure from the European Union risks the future of a sector that employs more than 850,000 people in the U.K.

But demand at the high end has been less affected. 

In the U.K., privately-owned McLaren, part of the group that owns the Formula One team, said the domestic market for its cars remained strong, achieving 49.2% growth in sales year-over-year. 

North America, which is the firm’s biggest single market accounting for a third of global sales, has now shifted 5,000 vehicles since sales started in 2011 and posted record growth last year. In Europe, sales rose 44.2%.

But the biggest leap, at 122.5%, was seen in China following the introduction of the 570S Spider and 720S. China now accounts for almost 7% of total global sales but McLaren, along with others, is exposed to a slowdown in consumer demand from the world’s second-largest economy.

Last week’s profit warning from Apple AAPL, -1.42%   wiped huge chunks off the value of global luxury goods firms — Britain’s fashion chain Burberry BRBY, +0.09%   sank 6% in a day last week.

New car sales in China are also being impacted by a growing secondhand market and changes to a government policy that gave a tax rebate for new car sales.

But McLaren chief executive Mike Flewitt, is upbeat. He said: “We now have greater control over our core component – the carbon fiber chassis at the heart of all our cars that gives them – and our customers - a unique performance edge.

“Our new MCTC facility [in Sheffield] ramps-up to full production later this year as we move under Track25 [McLaren’s expansion plan] to full hybrid for our sports cars and supercars by 2025.”

The SMMT figures show the biggest volume decline was seen in the diesel sector, down 29.6% in 2018.

Mike Hawes, SMMT CEO, said: “A second year of substantial decline is a major concern, as falling consumer confidence, confusing fiscal and policy messages and shortages due to regulatory changes have combined to create a highly turbulent market.

“The industry is facing ever-tougher environmental targets against a backdrop of political and economic uncertainty that is weakening demand. So these figures should act as a wake-up call for policy makers.”

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2019 Chevy Traverse LT Review: Spacious But Lacking Elsewhere

2019 Chevy Traverse LT Review: Spacious But Lacking Elsewhere 88GOOD2019 Chevy Traverse LTOverall Impression Stable on the open road.Transmission shifts smoothly.Fuel economy lags behind competition.ProsCargo Capacity Passenger RoomConsAll-Wheel Drive SystemLacks Important Driver-Assist Systems The 2019 Chevy Traverse is ideal for growing families who need to carry extra cargo during the day. It received a complete redesign last year and gets more legroom in the second and third rows. In this regard, it’s set up well against its three-row Japanese competitors like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-9, and the Subaru Ascent.
The Traverse is one of the roomiest three-row crossovers available. And that suited us well this week as we drove the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse AWD LT (Leather).
What’s New For 2019
The Chevy Traverse carries over unchanged for the 2019 model year but gets a newly available eight-inch touchscreen.
Features & Options: LT Packages Add Goodies 
The 2019 Chevrolet Traverse AWD LT Leather ($41,000) comes standard with second-row captain’s chairs in place of a bench. This reduces seating capacity to seven but improves accessibility and comfort. The LT also gets roof rails, mirror-integrated turn signals, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
The LT also comes standard with leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable passenger seat, color driver information display, power liftgate, and a remote start. Safety features include rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. It does lack automatic braking like some of the competition, however. With the 2019 Chevy Traverse, some safety features are only available on the top trims.
The LT Premium package ($3,095) added 20-inch wheels, navigation, a 10-speaker Bose sound system, 120-volt power outlet, auto-dimming rearview mirror with a built-in rearview camera display, and a top-down parking camera.
Total MSRP including destination: $45,090. By comparison, the 2019 Chevy Traverse starts at $29,930. 
2019 Chevy Traverse.
Interior Highlights: Impressive Storage
Stepping inside the newly-remodeled Traverse reveals a big, comfortable cabin for active families. The Traverse is one of the largest vehicles in the class and it pays dividends for families on the inside. There’s abundant space for adults in all three rows, and getting in and out is easy. You’ll have plenty of room for car seats, sporting equipment, water bottles, the kids’ electronics, and anything else you need for the week ahead.  
It’s easy for someone of any size to find the perfect driving position with the eight-way power adjustable seat, although visibility out back is limited due to larger rear pillars. However, the rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot monitoring came in handy to help with the limited visibility.
Up front there’s lots of storage and the wide console is impressive.
In the second-row, the captain’s chairs are particularly appealing because it makes for easier to access the third row. Second-row passengers have more than 38 inches of leg clearance, with rear-seat riders getting 33 inches. Behind the third row, there’s a generous 23 cubic feet of cargo-carrying ability. With the third row folded flat, cargo space passes 58 cubic feet, reaching 98.2 cubic feet with only the front seatbacks upright.





Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Traverse carries on with the same 3.6-liter V6 from before the remodel, but it gets an additional 29 horsepower. Totals now come in at 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft. of torque. The engine couples nicely with a nine-speed automatic, a pairing that helps achieve up to 17/25 city/highway and 20 combined mpg with all-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive models improve to 18/27 city/highway and 21 combined. 
When compared to the competition, the 2019 Chevy Traverse ranks dead last in terms of fuel economy. Although not as large, the smaller Equinox does much better in terms of fuel economy.
Related: The new Chevy Equinox is perfect for city dwellers. Here is our full review.
Driving Dynamics: Stable But One Glaring Drawback 
The Traverse has sufficient power for any family and their driving needs. It’s not going to win any races, but who buys an SUV to be a performance car? The bigger Traverse feels stable on the open road, and we felt reasonably confident in the mountains west of Denver.  
Traverse comes with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic that never had to hunt to find the right gear. That’s not easy driving from Denver (5,280 feet) all the way up to 8,000 feet elevation. The 2019 Chevy Traverse handles and steers like most other large three-row SUVS. It leans a little in the corners but overall, it feels steady at highway speeds.
One drawback is the optional all-wheel drive system, which functions too much like a setup from the past. The Traverse has a truck-like dial on the console that can be switched from 2WD to 4WD. We like the full-time all-wheel drive systems you don’t have to think about. An all-wheel drive system that simply does the right thing when you need it, without driver input, is much better for families on the go. 
Overall we felt confident during our drive, but the all-wheel drive system on the 2019 Chevy Traverse feels a bit outdated.
Conclusion: Solid B+ 
Chevy took direct aim at growing families when they redesigned the Traverse. The LT comes nicely equipped and has plenty of passenger and cargo room. Overall, the Traverse is worth a look if you need a spacious family hauler.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
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Winter Driving 101: The Complete Guide To Staying Safe & Ready

Winter Driving 101: The Complete Guide To Staying Safe & Ready This winter driving guide includes: 
How to respond during an emergency.
Driving tips that will help keep you and your family safe.
A comprehensive checklist for getting your vehicle “winterized.”
Seven simple DIY maintenance items to watch during the winter.
What to place in your emergency kit, including something we all overlook.
How states are implementing new technology to help keep you safe when you travel.
Winter Driving 101: The Complete Guide To Staying Safe & Ready
Driving during the winter is a challenge. How your car behaves on dry pavement is different than snowy or icy roads. And just like us, our cars can get grumpy when it’s freezing outside. But instead of being a winter worrier, let us help you become a winter warrior with our winter driving guide.
With this guide, you can better prepare your vehicle (and yourself) to tackle snow and ice more confidently. One thing that may come as a surprise is the actual number of accidents during the snowy season. Contrary to popular belief, there are not more crashes during the winter months.
“But those we see tend to be more serious,” explained Maureen Vogel, Spokeswoman for the National Safety Council. “Often, drivers do not realize how much they need to slow down when the weather is bad. Many tend to drive too fast for the conditions, which can lead to unnecessary crashes.”
However, driving at a slower speed is not the only factor to consider when it’s snowing. This winter driving guide will give you an in-depth look on how to properly prepare for snowy weather.
Vehicle Safety Checklist: 4 Essential Points
Let’s start this winter driving guide by examining the condition of your vehicle. It’s best to do this before the snow falls, or before taking any long journey this winter.
#1. When Was Your Last Service
Breaking down is bad enough but getting stranded in the winter cold is another thing. Start by visiting your local mechanic or dealership for an inspection and any routine maintenance items you may have overlooked. This includes changing the oil and other fluids, repairing leaks, drive belts, or replacing worn out parts.
When it comes to replacing parts, always prioritize safety items first. Brakes, tires, wheel bearings, and other suspension components can have a direct impact on safety if left unchecked. When in doubt, ask your mechanic to explain how the part that needs to be replaced functions, and if it impacts your safety.
#2. Check For Existing Safety Recalls
With safety in mind, the next thing you want to do is check your vehicle for outstanding safety recalls. If it’s something serious, the problem might be more dangerous during freezing weather. In order to check if your vehicle is affected, go to the NHTSA Safety Issues & Recalls page.
Using the site is relatively easy. Enter the VIN number or the make and model of your car and go from there.
#3. Buy Your Vehicle Some New Shoes
Your tires are the only things keeping you in contact with the road, and they’re even more important during slippery conditions. It’s crucial to make sure they’re up to the task. Tread depths and designs are primarily engineered to generate traction on wet or snow-covered pavement. The more “depth” your tires have, the better the traction. As a general rule of thumb, make sure to replace your tires when the tread depth drops to 4/32”.
But what about snow tires? Are all-season tires good enough to handle winter driving? Not necessarily.
“If temperatures are generally above 15°F and there is only light to moderate snowfall, all-season tires may be adequate,” said Michael Calkins, Manager of Technical Services at the American Automobile Association or AAA. “However, if you live where temperatures are frequently below 15°F and there are regular storms that deliver several inches of snow, then snow tires will provide definite traction, handling, and safety benefits.”
Snow tires are manufactured using softer compounds that provide adequate grip in freezing temperatures. Snow tires also have aggressive tread designs with various biting edges or sipes to offer better traction. In some cases, snow tires will come with metal studs for increased traction over and through deep snow.
“If your car slips and slides on snowy or icy pavement, it is hard to accelerate and brake without spinning or locking the wheels,” Calkins said. “Or if the car doesn’t want to track smoothly through corners without losing traction at the front or rear, snow tires will be of huge benefit in this regard.”
#4. Got Air? Check Tire Pressures
Did you know tire pressures drop an average of two PSI for every 10-degree drop in ambient temperature? This means the amount of air inside the tires is just as important as the tires themselves.
However, dropping the tire pressure is not necessarily a bad thing when tackling icy roads. Having the tires a bit underinflated in low-traction conditions will actually help generate more traction. But how low can you go? Check the owner’s manual for the recommended range of tire inflation pressures. Vehicles today also have the recommended tire pressures printed in a chart-like box inside the driver’s side door jamb.
We highly advise you to check the tire pressure before traveling and during every fuel stop if you deem it necessary. With that in mind, always keep a tire pressure gauge handy. Most cars today are also equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, or TPMS for short. If a tire drops too low, you will receive a warning light on your dashboard.
A new set of tires is one of the best defenses against winter weather.
7 Simple DIY Maintenance Items For Winter Driving
Even if your car and the tires are in relatively good shape, there are still a couple of DIY maintenance items to check. We’ve included these in our winter driving guide because they are easily overlooked.
#1. Check The Battery
Batteries lose their charge faster when they’re cold, making it harder to crank the motor during the winter season. If you see cracks or damage on the battery casing, replace it immediately. You can also use a multi-meter to check the voltage of the battery. If the reading falls below 12.40 volts to 12.75 volts, it may be time for a new battery.
And while you’re at it, make sure the battery cables are tight to ensure a perfect start the first time around.
#2. Check The Coolant Reservoir
The name “coolant” is a bit misleading. In truth, coolant primarily lubricates all the metal and aluminum parts in the cooling system. This includes the radiator, water pump, and other critical internal parts. Coolant or antifreeze will also prevent the liquid from hardening or freezing inside the cooling system. If the temperature is forecasted to fall below freezing, consider flushing the cooling system and refilling the radiator with a 100 percent concentration of antifreeze.
As for how often you should do this, it’s best to consult either your local mechanic and/or the owner’s manual. The schools of thought on this vary greatly but it’s an important maintenance item nonetheless.
#3. Wiper Blades Are Important
As a general maintenance rule, you don’t need to wait for the windshield to get streaky before replacing the wiper blades. This is a low-cost solution that will help you see easier in adverse weather.
#4. So Is The Washer Fluid
You will end up using a lot of windshield wiper fluid during the winter. Make sure to fill up the reservoir with winter-formulated fluid before setting off. It is a good idea to check the reservoir every time you stop for gas. Keep a reserve jug of fluid (or two) in your trunk.
#5. Check All Exterior Lights
This includes the headlights, taillights, signal markers, and hazard lights. If one or more of the bulbs are defective, replace them before driving off.
#6. Fill Up Often
We generally recommend keeping your gas tank at least a third full when driving in the winter. If the weather is really bad, the tank should be at least half full. If you find yourself stranded, a full tank means the engine can run and you can stay warm. Of course, this is also insurance against running out of gas on an icy and frozen road.
#7. Change The Floor Mats
Rubberized floor mats are ideal for winter driving. They can trap dirt, snow, and slush without staining or wetting the carpets underneath. Rubber floor mats are also much easier to clean. However, only buy the correct shape and size mats for your vehicle, and make sure to install them correctly. Improper installation will interfere with the gas and brake pedal as you drive.

Prepare An Emergency Kit & Get An Atlas
In a recent study conducted by Siegfried & Jensen, 62 percent said they feel prepared in the event of a breakdown. However, that same study found people carry just four of the eight emergency items recommended by DMV.org.
“This research goes to show how gravely underprepared drivers are for accidents on the road,” said Ned Siegfried, President of Siegfried & Jensen. “This misplaced confidence suggests there isn’t enough being done to educate drivers about how to get their vehicles ready.”
Siegfried & Jensen also found that less than a quarter of Americans keep paper maps in the glovebox, and only 11 percent have a sat nav, suggesting drivers rely overwhelmingly on smartphones for directions. But as signals can disappear in remote areas and batteries can die after several hours in the cold, having a traditional road atlas handy like our grandparents always did is good advice for the winter months.
“Although getting lost without access to a map or being stuck on the side of the road for a couple of hours can be a minor annoyance, it’s crucial to prepare for more serious accidents for the safety of all road users,” Siegfried said.
As for your emergency kit, it should include: a flashlight, jumper cables, salt or kitty litter, a small shovel, scraper, flares or glow sticks, matches or pocket lighter, candles, food and water, medication, an extra set of clothing, spare blankets, and an extra cell phone. Include anything else you think will best serve you in the event you are stranded.
Less than a quarter of Americans keep paper maps in the glovebox. In remote areas, this could be problematic as smartphones can lose signal.
Driving In Snow & Ice: 5 Critical Things To Consider
Now that your vehicle is in tip-top shape and your emergency kit and atlas are packed, here are five tips to help you safely arrive at your destination.
#1. Obey The Speed Limit
We cannot stress this enough. Driving at high speeds, especially on slippery roads is dangerous.
“The majority of traffic crashes in the winter can be attributed to driving too fast for the conditions of the roadway,” said Jim Flegel, Special First Lieutenant, Michigan State Police. “Drivers must obey the basic speed laws and must operate their vehicle at a careful and prudent speed taking into account the road and weather conditions at all times.”
And always keep a safe distance from the other vehicle in front of you.
“By adhering to the basic speed law, the driver will be able to properly maintain control of their vehicle and will be able to stop within the assured clear distance ahead,” Flegel added. “The only compensation that will work when driving on slippery roads, is to slow down and increase your following distance.”
#2. Avoid Distracted Driving
Driving over slippery or icy surfaces is bad enough, and doing it while distracted will severely increase your chances of an accident. Make no mistake about it. Distracted driving kills and it’s a worldwide problem. Never text, call, or operate a smartphone or mobile device as you drive. Even just a half-second of distraction can mean the difference between life and death.
#3. Always Drive Sober
Alcohol and other drugs will significantly impair your motor skills, reaction time, and judgement. Your brain needs these things in order to get you home safe during the cold winter months. Know your limit and always designate a sober driver before heading out.
#4. Electronic Traction Control
Keep the stability and traction control (ESC and ETC) on at all times. These safety features will assist you if you find yourself skidding, sliding, or spinning.
#5. Plan Ahead
Even if the weather conditions are generally calm from where you are, it might not be the same upon reaching your destination. In Michigan, travelers can see the location of plow trucks in real-time across the state. The trucks even have on-board cameras so you can see what the plow operator sees.
Pennsylvania’s Where’s My Plow? and North Dakota’s Track-A-Plow are similar programs. North Dakota Department of Transportation Director Tom Sorel believes we should use the advancements in technology to our advantage.
“This is one more piece of information that travelers can use to see what is happening on the highways and make more informed decisions when making travel plans,” he said.
Check your home state’s department of transportation website to see if a similar program exists in your area.
States like Michigan, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, and Virginia offer residents a free plow tracking service through their respective transportation departments. The programs can help residents better prepare for winter driving.
What To Do During An Emergency
If something bad happens, do NOT panic. Check if you or your passengers are injured, then follow the Steer It, Clear It rule.
“If you are not injured and the vehicle is drivable, immediately move the vehicle from the traveled portion of the roadway to the shoulder or other safe location,” Flegel said.
The next thing is to call 911 or roadside assistance.
“Take good note of your location, including the mile marker if you’re on the highway, to ensure they can easily find you,” Vogel advised.
Here are other important things to remember if you end up in the middle of the road after an accident:
Stay inside the vehicle with your seat belt securely fastened.
Activate your four-way emergency flashers to warn other drivers.
If you must leave your vehicle, be extremely aware of passing traffic.
Walk directly to a safe location away from the traveled portion of the roadway.
Call 911 and report the crash, giving the dispatcher specific details about the location.
In the event of an emergency, do not panic. Try to remain calm.
Putting It All Together
Colder months can be safer and easier if you follow the advice in this winter driving guide. You may never predict what another driver will do at any given moment; you may not be able to predict the weather, but it helps to remain alert so you can anticipate any curve balls along the way.
“Be a good defensive driver so you can continuously scan for other motorists losing control and crossing the centerline,” Flegel concluded. “Check the weather report, leave early if necessary, and let others know your route and anticipated arrival time.”
“Winter presents all kinds of challenges. As a general rule, stay inside if it’s bad outside,” Vogel added. “Our roads are risky even when conditions are clear – add inclement weather to the mix and you increase your risk of a crash.”
Additional Resources
NHTSA: Tips for Traveling Safely.
AAA Exchange: Winter Driving Tips.
OHSA: Prepare, Protect, Prevent: Safe Winter Driving.
Michigan.gov/FEMA: How To Prepare For a Winter Storm (PDF Packet).



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2018 BMW M3 CS: The Bavarian Powerhouse

2018 BMW M3 CS: The Bavarian Powerhouse

BMW’s M3 has sort of been the benchmark performance sedan since its inception. And BMW continues to bang that drum, even though their 3 Series has grown over the years, and their original hot rod, something that’s light and tossable and small and agile, has grown sizably over the years. And I mean that literally. In comparison to where it started, the current BMW 3 Series is about where the 5 Series was decades ago. Ever thus is that trend for auto manufacturers; slightly bigger, an inch here, ten pounds there, year over year. And what was once small and logical is now bigger and fatter.
To make this even weirder, here we have the new BMW M3 CS, a special edition model that delivers a “fine blend of high performance and complete everyday practicality.” Wait, I thought that’s what the M3 already was? What gives?
Abundantly Speaking
What gives is, essentially, marketing speak. Oh sure, the M3 CS has more. More power, more torque, more gee-gaws and such, but essentially it’s “just” this year’s M3, only more so. Why the Bavarians didn’t take all the CS stuff and simply call it the “2018 M3” is beyond me, but BMW gets funny sometimes. So that weirdness aside, the BMW M3 CS is everything we’ve come to expect from an M3. It’s quick, it’s fast, it’s powerful (and I mean really powerful), it has tons of tech, but not so much tech that it gets in the way of the overall driving experience (hopefully). And it is screwed together by members of a society that have a real fetish designing and screwing things together “right.”
Weight Loss
The CS has lots of carbon fiber, even more than you’d normally find on an M3. The widespread use of carbon fiber, carbon fiber-reinforced plastic to be accurate about it, keeps this first-ever BMW M3 CS much lighter than the “normal” M3. Around 110 lbs. less than a normal M3, so that’s worth paying attention to. Large portions of the body are also made from carbon fiber, like the hood, which drops 25 percent of its weight in comparison to the regular M3. The roof panel is made of carbon fiber and that alone is more than 13 lbs. lighter than a conventional steel version. Plus, that weight savings comes from way up high on the body, so the center of gravity will drop, handling will improve and such. The front splitter? Carbon fiber. Even the “Gurney Flap” hanging out back is done up in exposed carbon fiber.
According to BMW, the engine’s crankcase has a “closed-deck” design to make it more rigid, thus allowing for higher cylinder pressures. The sleeveless cylinder walls have a twin-wire, arc-sprayed coating to reduce weight. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Power & Performance
And all this lightness is a good thing. Regular readers know I’ve got a fixation for lightweight cars, but what the M3 CS is really about is power. Lots of it. Bags of it. For BMWs, it all seems to come down to what that “M” stands for, which is motor. And boy does the 2018 M3 CS pack a whopper of a mill. To wit, it’s an M TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder that cranks out 453 horsepower at 6,250 rpm (28 more than the “normal” M3), with 443 lb-ft. of peak torque, available from 4,000 to 5,380 rpm (37 lb-ft. more). Great googly-moogly, that’s a lot of power!
Some would say that’s too much power and, let’s be frank here, those people are morons. 453 + 443 sounds like f-u-n fun to me. And I mean mathematically verifiable fun. 60 mph comes up in a scant 3.7 seconds and the top speed has increased to 174 mph. See? F-u-n fun. All of that power and torque is put to the bahn through the 7-speed M Double-Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic.
Naturally, the suspension is tweaked to deal with the higher engine output. The M3 CS comes standard with BMW’s Adaptive M Suspension that offers a choice of three modes: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ with different damper settings in each of the three modes. Three different settings for the precisely tuned M Servotronic electromechanical steering can also be selected at the touch of a button.
The BMW M3 CS is outfitted with an Active M Differential, an electronically controlled limited-slip differential to enhance traction and stability. The control unit communicates with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system, and factors in the accelerator position, rotational wheel speeds, and yaw rate to deliver the maximum torque to the rear wheels while still maintaining traction. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.


Noteworthy Points
Also adding to the fun is a nice, throaty sounding M sport exhaust system. It’s specially tuned for the CS with a quartet of stainless steel tailpipes blending perfectly into the carbon fiber diffuser. Point of parliamentary procedure: BMW uses the term “rear diffuser.” Most car companies do. Rear diffuser? That’s idiotic and redundant. Of course it’s a rear diffuser. Have you ever seen a diffuser at the front end of something? No. No you have not.
That’s like saying, “the new rear feathers of this arrow . . . ” Duh! You don’t put feathers on the front of an arrow no more than you’d put a diffuser anywhere but on the rear of a car. So knock it off, it’s starting to bother me.
Interior Treatments
The inside is drenched in Alcantara and two-tone full Merino leather in Silverstone/Black. There’s a new red start/stop button and the passenger compartment is pared down to the essentials for significant weight savings, but still graced by the presence of lightweight M sport seats. There is, however, such niceties as automatic climate control and a Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Pricing & Availability
You like? Of course you do. And if you really like, you better get to your local BMW dealer. Production of the M3 CS is limited to approximately 1,200 units worldwide, with only 550 of them coming to the United States. Pricing has not been announced but BMW will start taking orders in May.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias toward lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
2018 BMW M3 CS Gallery














Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.



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Lamborghini Terzo Millennio: When Crazed Italians Hang With Hyper-Geeks

Lamborghini Terzo Millennio: When Crazed Italians Hang With Hyper-Geeks

The Lamborghini Terzo Millennio is, to me, a prime example of what has been Lambo’s Achilles’ Heel for decades: Styling. Ever since the Countach, Lamborghini basically gave up on giving their cars any sense of grace or elegance and have gone for brute presence and hard edges and gaudiness with all the subtly of a 25 minute heavy metal guitar solo. Automobili Lamborghini got together with not one, but two laboratories at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (aka MIT) and asked, in so many words, “hey, what would a possible future Lamborghini electric super sports car be like?”
The answer is this: The Lamborghini Terzo Millennio. A car that looks like something a 13-year-old would draw on the back of his notebook.
Central Command
MIT, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, is arguably the best engineering school in the known universe (that’s right Vulcan Science Academy, you heard me). You know the MIRV, the Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle for atomic warheads? That was dreamed up and invented at MIT. By graduate students. Stroboscopic photography? That was invented, single-handedly, by Harold “Doc” Edgerton, an MIT professor who taught freshman chemistry. The people that roam the halls and wander the MIT campus sit at the top of the Everest of geekdom. You ask MIT for “help” on your transportation project, and a byproduct might turn out to be a mass-driver that can sling ore from the asteroid belt back to planet Earth.
And Lamborghini, bless their hearts, decided to ask, and the result is the Terzo Millennio which, styling aside, packs about as much performance as a cruise missile on final approach. Bear witness.
Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Breaking Down The Beast
At its heart, this is a moon-shot of a car. If it happens at all in anything close to what we see here, it will happen many years (decades) down the road. Lamborghini flat-out states: “The concept physically imagines design and technology theories of tomorrow.” Theories? Wow, equivocate much? Lamborghini has chosen to focus on five different dimensions: energy storage systems, innovative materials, propulsion, visionary design, and emotion. Or, to put it in layman’s terms so you don’t have to be Florence LaRue: where the fuel goes, what it’s built from, how that fuel is dispensed to the tarmac, what it looks like, and . . . er, emotion? Really, they went with emotion? What does that even mean?
Energy Storage Systems
THUS SPAKE LAMBO!!: “The strategy of creating super sports cars with uncompromising performance generates Lamborghini’s motivation to revolutionize the approach to . . . SAVE ME!!! SAVE ME!!! Please don’t make me read this stuff. No need to get lost in all that MarComm drivel. The Energy Storage System, effectively the gas tank is a, in one word, supercapacitor. Which is (I hear some of you asking) just like yer run of the mill capacitor, only super. Essentially, a battery that is quick to discharge, quick to charge, and holds “enough” stored energy to “practically” use. Think of a much larger electric go-kart with a bodyshell and a license plate.
Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.


Innovative Materials
What is it built from? Answer: cloth and glue (aka carbon fiber). Cloth and glue that are used all over the place in structures and parts and the bodyshell, and also in interesting ways: like that same bodyshell acting as an accumulator for energy storage. Swift, eh? Lambo and MIT closely monitor the bodyshell to look for and predict cracks and structural failures, and self-fix them via micro-channels filled with “healing chemistries.”
To which I say, that’s cool and all, but couldn’t you just make the skin a little thicker and a little tougher and not even worry about “monitoring” it?
Propulsion System
Works like this: each wheel gets its own engine/generator, a pretty standard layout for an EV drivetrain. It’s so much easier to do this with electric motors, because even very powerful versions are also relatively small. And since all of these motors are controlled by enough computing power to make Seymour Cray tear up, that means you can automatically build in (and tweak on the fly) things like differential anti-lock braking based on accelerator data and steering wheel angles to optimize traction through mid-corner out to corner exit. To name just one of the simpler sub-routines anyway.
It’s not just that the car, with tons of electrical power delivered to the pavement near-instantaneously, can go and turn and stop, it can potentially do two or even three of those simultaneously.
Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Design
Let us just be Gorn-like, quick and merciful, and say this thing’s styling – regardless of how much aerodynamic sense it makes – looks like 13-and-a-half axe heads randomly attached to a big magnet. This car, the Terzo Millennio, does not look graceful or animated or lithe or agile. No, it looks stocky and apathetic and rigid and clumsy. Seriously. I’ve seen more aesthetic doorstops in Leningrad.
Emotion
Yeah. Yeah . . . no. Just, no.
Chances are the Lamborghini Terzo Millennio will hit the streets right about the time the mid-engine, quad rotor Wankel-powered Corvette is arriving (i.e. right around the time Gloria Steinem marries Harvey Weinstein). It’s a neat idea though.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias toward lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
Lamborghini Terzo Millennio Gallery











Photos & Source: Automobili Lamborghini.



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2018 Buick LaCrosse Avenir Debuts, Signals New Direction

2018 Buick LaCrosse Avenir Debuts, Signals New Direction

Buick recently unveiled the 2018 LaCrosse Avenir, a more premium option when compared to the traditional model. Avenir is Buick’s new sub-brand, meant to expand their product line into more luxurious territory. The move may well usher in a new chapter for Buick, an automaker seeking to redefine themselves. Last year, we sat down with Buick’s Marketing Director, Molly Peck to gain some insight as to where they are headed in the future. Part of that conversation included the Avenir sub-brand, which made its official debut in October with the release of the 2018 Enclave.
Avenir is, interestingly enough, the French word for future.
Above & Beyond
In short, Avenir is Buick’s way of delivering more for their customers: more styling cues, more standard features, more premium materials – and so on. The idea is to make Buick resonate with those who desire a luxury vehicle unique to their lifestyle.
“Nine out of ten LaCrosse buyers are choosing one of the top two trim levels – customers are signaling they want more from Buick,” explained Duncan Aldred, Vice President of Global Buick and GMC. “With even more content and an elegant look, Avenir adds a unique name and appearance for those who want the best of our attainable luxury.”
2018 Buick LaCrosse Avenir. Photo: Buick.
Styling & Design
The Avenir’s design was ultimately inspired by Buick’s concept cars and employs a more dramatic, three-dimensional look. This is seen especially on the LaCrosse’s upper and lower grilles and chrome wings. Avenir script badging on the front doors and exclusive 19-inch Pearl Nickel or 20-inch Midnight Silver wheels are also characteristic of the LaCrosse Avenir. Inside, driver’s will find a Chestnut interior theme, embroidered first-row headrests, and Avenir-scripted sill plates.
Buick’s intent is for the design cues to create a truly memorable automobile.
“Exterior styling is very important to LaCrosse buyers, and its sculpted beauty withstands passing trends,” said Bob Boniface, Global Director of Buick Exterior Design. “For Avenir, we focused on maintaining the timelessness of the LaCrosse, while giving these customers subtle and tasteful details that elevate this car to a new level.”
2018 Buick LaCrosse Avenir interior layout. Photo: Buick.
Power & Performance
The 2018 Buick LaCrosse Avenir has a 310 horsepower V6 engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Intelligent Twin-Clutch All-Wheel Drive and Dynamic Drive with real-time dampening control are both optional. A suite of active and passive safety features will also be available.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Buick LaCrosse Avenir will arrive at dealerships early next year. Pricing and the vehicle’s complete specifications are forthcoming.
 
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 
2018 Buick LaCrosse Avenir Gallery








Photos & Source: Buick.



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