Automotive

2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited Review: Ideal For Work or Pleasure

2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited Review: Ideal For Work or Pleasure 92SOLID2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid LimitedOverall ImpressionLuxurious interior.Good car for working professionals.However, it doesn't always like snowy weather.ProsFuel EconomyRide & HandlingQuiet & Comfortable ConsLacks AWD OptionNot Compatible With Android AutoThe 2019 Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan with lots of room inside, a large trunk for cargo, and standard features galore. The Avalon Hybrid bumps up the fuel efficiency to a level not seen in traditional large sedans. If it’s fuel economy you are looking for along with size, the Avalon Hybrid is a must-look and must-drive.
We did just that recently when we tested the 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited.
What’s New For 2019
The Toyota Avalon Hybrid is fully redesigned for 2019.
Features & Options: Comfort & Technology
Standard features for the 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited ($42,800) include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, heated mirrors, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and power-adjustable front seats, premium leather upholstery, 60/40-split folding rear seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
On the technology front, the Limited comes with a Wi-Fi hotspot, nine-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, wireless charging pad, and Bluetooth capability. Toyota’s Entune infotainment system provides smartphone-based navigation, four USB ports, Apple CarPlay and iPod connectivity, and an eight-speaker audio system with satellite and HD radio.
Features & Options: Safety & Luxury
Toyota’s Safety Sense suite of advanced safety features is extensive. Drivers benefit from forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane keeping assist, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. The package also includes a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert. Further, Toyota’s Safety Connect program is available for additional peace of mind while traveling.
An Advanced Safety package ($1,150) with a surround-view parking camera and rear parking sensors with automatic braking came on our Limited tester.
Lastly, the Limited trim receives upgraded exterior lighting, a sunroof, heads-up display, ventilated front seats, driver-seat memory settings, and a heated steering wheel. On the inside, drivers will enjoy the wood trim, ambient lighting, and 14-speaker premium JBL audio system.
Total MSRP including destination: $44,870. By comparison, the 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid starts at $36,500.
2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited.
Interior Highlights: Attractive & Warm
The Avalon cabin is modern, stylish, and thoughtfully planned out. Our tester came with an attractive all-black motif, contrast stitching, and plenty of soft-touch materials. The interior materials are of excellent quality, with matching wood grains, metallic trim, and attractive black surfaces. The heated and cooled front seats and supple leather are especially comfortable during the winter.
The controls are easy to find and use, unlike many luxury cars on the market. There’s a handy smartphone charger just ahead of the gear shifter, which opens underneath to a nice cubby space for valuables. The heated steering wheel now comes standard on the Limited, which we made liberal use of during a recent Denver snowstorm.
The back comes with its own climate controls and heated seats. There’s plenty of legroom and headroom in the back for taller adults. The Hybrid gets a bit smaller trunk (14 cubic feet) to house the battery underneath.
2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited interior layout.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Avalon Hybrid’s powertrain consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, mated with two motors tucked into the transaxle. Those motors are sustained by nickel-metal hydride batteries. Power is sent to the front wheels by way of a planetary, power-split continuously variable transmission. The system combines for 215 horsepower, up from 200 horsepower versus the previous model.
The outgoing Hybrid was an EPA-estimated 40/39 city/highway and 40 combined mpg. The 2019 models improve to 43/43 city/highway and 43 combined. We averaged 38.4 mpg during our week with the full-size sedan.
Driving Dynamics: Easy To Handle But Difficult In Snow
The Avalon drives like a much smaller car. We were able to navigate Denver without issue. We found the big sedan actually thrives in urban environments, especially in stop-and-go traffic. For example, the Hybrid system can sustain speeds of up to 25 mph on battery power alone. Considering it can go 680 miles on a singe tank of regular unleaded gas, the 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid would be great for a realtor who uses their car as an office. Passengers would be comfy riding around looking at houses.
The ride is smooth thanks to special shock absorbers and large anti-roll bars that offer up capable and controllable handling. The suspension has been retuned with the Limited for a comfort-oriented setup.
If you live in cold climates, the only downside is the Avalon does not offer all-wheel drive. We got stuck in a heavy, wet Denver snowstorm in the mountains west of the city. However, with all-wheel drive, it would take away from the Avalon’s impressive fuel economy.

Conclusion: Comfortable For Work or Pleasure
The 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid is a full-size sedan that gets impressive fuel mileage. For those hauling clients around, it’s an excellent choice as an office on wheels. It’s quiet and comfortable and the cabin is stylish and modern.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Gallery

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

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The Five Most Romantic Classic Cars For Valentine’s Day

The Five Most Romantic Classic Cars For Valentine’s Day Matt Robertson of Leland-West Classic Car Insurance examines the top five classics for Valentine’s Day.
With one of these classic machines, you will make a memorable first impression as you arrive for dinner.
Valentine’s Day is approaching, and it is time to decide where to make the dinner reservations. The cards, chocolates, and flowers are purchased and ready for the perfect delivery. Then comes the planning of the actual date. What will you wear? Did you get your haircut? How will you get to your destination?
Will you take a limo to impress your date or is your current automobile good enough for this special night? How about stepping up your game and making sure this date is memorable?
Pick up that special someone in a romantic classic car. The question then is what are the top classic cars that are also romantic enough for Valentine’s Day? Let’s explore five of the most romantic classic cars ever produced.
#1: Aston Martin DB5
Someone who wants to make an amazing entrance this Valentine’s Day in a classic car would have to begin with the most sophisticated (and sexiest) one ever made: the 1963 Aston Martin DB5. The classic Aston Martin DB5 is one of the most recognizable vehicles of all time. Imagine being dressed in the finest attire possible and hitting the road in this beauty for an elegant dinner at the nicest restaurant in town.
Your date will be amazed when you pull up in this much-sought-after classic. The Aston Martin DB5 has 286 horsepower and tops out at 142 mph, making it powerful and fast in addition to sexy. This car is first on the list because James Bond showed the world its beauty in the movie Goldfinger.
And many women will agree James Bond is forever a symbol of sophistication and class.
Related: How Sir David Brown built a car for the “discerning owner driver.”

#2: 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
Maybe you are living in Southern California and are wanting a classic car that allows you to put the top down and drive the coast before your dinner reservations. The 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is the obvious choice.
This beautiful specimen has a 4.6L V8 engine which should impress even the most skeptical of dates. And the classic elegance of the car will bring out the romantic in anyone. Classic-Car-History.com states that the Chevrolet Bel Air is “arguably the world’s most popular classic car.”
That being said, your date will be delighted when you pull up in this for the evening.
#3: Ferrari 250 GTO
Let’s turn our attention to those who might be looking for a sporty classic car to make the list. Maybe you and your date for the evening envision a need for speed and excitement. Arguably the most famous sports car of the time was the 1962-1964 Ferrari 250 GTO. This powerful car comes with a V12 engine and a top speed of 174 mph, and is one of the finest Ferraris ever to hit the road.
The only problem you will face is locating one. There were only 36 made between 1962 and 1964.
If you are fortunate enough to get your hands on one for Valentine’s Day, you will definitely turn heads at every stop. Some have described this classic sports car as the most desirable and legendary motorcar ever created. While the Ferrari 250 GTO was built for racing, as time has gone by, the lucky owners now keep them in pristine condition. And those that catch a glimpse will certinately stay awestruck.
In August, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO was bid to $48,405,000 at the RM Sotheby’s sale in Monterey, California. The bid makes this 250 GTO the most valuable car ever sold at public auction, beating the previous record for a 250 GTO – $38,115,000 – in 2014.
#4: Porsche 550 Spyder
If mixing that convertible top with sports car speed is something that interests you for Valentine’s Day, then to many the choice is clear. The classic 1953-1956 Porsche 550 Spyder was first introduced at the 1953 Paris Salon. The word Spyder was added to signify it as an open and light two-seater. This beauty rides low, and actually drove under closed railroad crossing gates in the 1954 Mille Miglia.
Porsche designed the 550 Spyder primarily as a race car. It won the Nürburgring Eifel Race in 1953 among many other races in the day. There were only 90 made, although 43 of them were non-race cars as public demand grew for its sleek design and sophistication. Famous designer Ralph Lauren owns the 61st Porsche 550 Spyder by the way.
Imagine the look on your date’s face if you were able to pull up in this rare, yet widely-recognizable classic sports car. You would be forgiven if you skipped dinner and just continued to enjoy the ride together.
Actor James Dean poses with a Porsche 550 Spyder. Photo: Porsche AG.
#5: 1965 Ford Mustang
The Mustang is for those that still want to impress, but also want to afford their entire Valentine’s Day date. Most everyone loves the Ford Mustang and there are few better than the 1965 model year. Although this classic car is not as rare as some of the others discussed, it does have a powerful V8 engine, and comes in a coupé or convertible.
Your date will take notice of the time and effort you put into the evening when you pull up in this classic automobile.
Picking The Right One
Classic cars are extremely popular as manufacturers cannot afford to make cars like those today. As enthusiasts know, the options are endless when trying to impress someone you cherish with a vehicle. And the opinions are different depending on the driver. Some prefer a head-turning vehicle with plenty of power; some want that elegant and noticeable convertible; others desire race car levels of speed and performance.
But most just want a classic that’s loved and adored by the masses.
While these are our top five romantic classic cars for Valentine’s Day, let’s be honest: any popular classic automobile will make the day memorable and romantic. Just don’t forget the flowers and chocolates!
Matt Robertson is Managing Partner at Leland-West Classic Car Insurance. Matt is a classic car nut and when he’s not wrenching in his garage, you can find him at any number of antique car events.

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2019 Mazda3: Two Flavors & Plenty of Extras

2019 Mazda3: Two Flavors & Plenty of Extras The 2019 Mazda3 comes in two styles, sedan and hatchback.
A manual transmission is available in certain combinations.
The list of connectivity and safety features is impressive.
Mazda keeps cranking these little guys out and it’s easy to see why. The Mazda3 is the best-selling car for the Japanese brand. I know, that’s kind of sad. I was hoping for the Miata, but it’s not a sports car world I’m afraid. So what makes the 2019 Mazda3 so hot? The usual stuff for Mazda: value and lots of goodies and fun.
Mazda might not be the most popular Japanese car brand, but they do hit a certain sweet spot. A spot where lots of innovation, high-end content, and driving fun meet for not much money.
Two Flavors, One Engine
The 2019 Mazda3 is a good example of this sweet spot. Starting at $21,000 in sedan skin, the 3 gets you a lot of car for not that much cash. There’s also a hatchback flavor that starts at $23,600. Regardless, both are propelled by the wonderful, race-derived SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter engine. That engine cranks out 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft. of torque, which is impressive, but not great (volumetrically speaking).
There’s paddle shifters for the six-speed automatic. But – and this is a big but – Mazda also has a six-speed manual transmission available for you old school gearheads out there. The manual is reserved for the front-wheel drive hatchbacks in Premium trim.
Related: The Bruno Mars of sports cars? Meet the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF.
All-Wheel Drive In The Mix
Front-wheel drive is standard, but Mazda’s predictive i-ACTIV all-wheel drive is available. No, I have no idea what “predictive i-ACTIV all-wheel drive” is, exactly, beyond more marketing speak gobbledygook. But I do know that having all four corners pawing at the pavement is (usually) a good thing. So good on Mazda for making that an affordable option.
The SKYACTIV engine uses cylinder-deactivation to lower fuel consumption when all you’re doing is cruising long distances down the highway. The new 3 also gets G-Vectoring Control Plus, Mazda’s torque vectoring scheme. 16-inch wheels are standard, with 18 inchers as an option.
SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter engine. Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
Interior Treatments: Bang For Your Buck
Sadly, that’s about it for any performance-related news on the 2019 Mazda3. However, the other stuff, the interior and infotainment and all that, is where all the bang-for-your-buck is. The interior is entirely new for 2019 from the center console on up. Said console has a new shift knob and armrest for a more natural feeling for the driver. There’s a new 8.8-inch infotainment screen standard on all models. The “gauge cluster display” is now a seven-inch TFT reconfigurable screen.
The eight-speaker sound system features a “three-way layout” with Bluetooth phone and audio pairing, HD radio, and two USB audio inputs. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.
Comfort-wise you can expect leatherette seating surfaces, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. Safety-wise there’s a host of standard features in Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE package: Driver Attention Alert, High Beam Control, Smart City Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning just to name a few.
Did I mention the 2019 Mazda3 sedan starts at only $21k?
2019 Mazda3 interior layout. Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
Three Extra Packages On Tap
There are three additional packages available for the 2019 Mazda3: Select, Preferred, and Premium. Depending on the package, you get even more neat stuff but it is model-specific. The sedan can come in all three but the hatchback only comes in Preferred and Premium. The Select package nets you everything we just talked about while the Preferred package comes with an upgraded Bose stereo. The Preferred also includes an eight-way power driver’s seat, power lumbar support, two-position driver memory, and heated front seats.
The Premium package gets a trick HUD setup called the Active Driving Display that projects onto the windshield. The Premium package also gets you leather seats, a power moonroof, and the Adaptive Front-Lighting System.
Pricing & Availability
So yes, you get a lot of stuff for, what should be, entry-level money. A complete pricing chart is below. Expect to see the 2019 Mazda3 at dealers in March.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
2019 Mazda3
Hatchback
Sedan
MSRP by Model & Trim
Add $895 for destination, $940 in Alaska

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

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

Photos & Source: Mazda North American Operations.

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2019 Toyota Sienna Review: Performance For Families Where It Matters

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

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

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

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2020 Kia Telluride: The South Korean Range Rover

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

Photos & Source: Kia Motors America.

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2018 Honda Accord 2.0T Arrives, Most Powerful Accord Yet

2018 Honda Accord 2.0T Arrives, Most Powerful Accord Yet

Expect to see the new Honda Accord 2.0T on dealer showrooms very soon. Honda says this Accord variant is “more powerful and engaging” with a new 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo under the hood. The Accord lineup continues its diversity with the 2.0T, which follows on the heels of the 1.5T released just a month ago. Early next year, the pair will be joined by the Accord Hybrid, featuring the 3rd generation of Honda’s two-motor hybrid technology.
Power & Performance
The Accord 2.0T is powered by a VTEC Turbo inline-four with direct injection and a dual overhead cam setup. With 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft. of torque, the engine is related to the one in the Civic Type R; both share similar design principles. The Civic Type R may be the most powerful Honda in production at the moment, but believe it or not, the Accord 2.0T actually employs a smaller, low-inertia turbocharger for improved low-end response.
Overall, the Honda Accord lineup features two new i-VTEC Turbo engines, a more rigid, lightweight sealed body, and an entirely new chassis. The latter was benchmarked against luxury-class D-segment competitors during development.
Safety & Security
The Accord 2.0T features the Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety technologies, including Traffic Sign Recognition. Likewise, Honda is expecting high safety marks from the New Car Assessment Program, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Honda Accord Sport 2.0T. Photo: Honda North America.

Interior Treatments
Inside, Honda goes for simple connectivity and functionality. The Accord 2.0T includes wireless charging, a 6-inch heads-up display, 12-way power adjustable driver’s seat, and the next generation of HondaLink Assist, the automaker’s connected-car technology. An 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen interface with sharper graphics and more user-friendly features, like hard buttons for frequently used functions, is also available.
Pricing & Availability
Expect to see the 2018 Honda Accord 2.0T on dealer lots on Monday, November 22nd. We have included a handy pricing and fuel economy chart below. All 2018 Accords for the U.S. market are manufactured at Honda’s Marysville, Ohio plant. Its three new engines are produced at the nearby Anna, Ohio facility, the automaker’s largest engine plant in the world.
Carl Anthony in Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
2018 Accord 2.0T Trims, MSRP & EPA Ratings
Trim / Transmission
MSRP
MSRP Including $890 Destination
EPA Fuel Economy Ratings(City / Highway/ Combined)
Accord 2.0T Sport / 6MT
$30,310
$31,200
22 / 32 / 26
Accord 2.0T Sport / 10AT
$30,310
$31,200
22 / 32 / 26
Accord 2.0T EX-L / 10AT
$31,970
$32,860
23 / 34 / 27
Accord 2.0T EX-L Navi / 10AT
$32,970
$33,860
23 / 34 / 27
Touring / 10AT
$35,800
$36,690
22 / 32 / 26
Photos & Source: Honda North America.

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Tesla Roadster Revealed (And It’s Powerful)

Tesla Roadster Revealed (And It’s Powerful)

Whoa, whoa, whoa! Hold up, hold up . . . Tesla just rolled out a new version of the Roadster out of nowhere. They were just supposed to debut a new, all-electric semi truck, then boom, here’s this gorgeous, new, completely unexpected electric sports car. Sure, sure, the truck is interesting, but at this point, who cares? I don’t. Although the information I have is rather thin, the performance specs are shocking. I mean jet fighter going up against a prop plane shocking.
Ground Rules
Before I dive in here, let’s get a few “minor” quibbles out of the way. First off, this is not really a roadster and it stretches the definition of “sports car.” What the new Tesla Roadster is, form-factor-wise, is a targa. There’s a large-ish removable roof panel – made of glass, which is kind of trick – that stores in the trunk (nice!). Tesla says this gives you “an open-air, convertible driving experience.” No, it won’t. I like targas, but don’t confuse them with convertibles. In a convertible there’s nothing behind your head but beautiful wind turbulence, a sonorous exhaust note, the tarmac you were just on, and the sighs of those jealous souls you just passed. And, more to the point, roadsters are not even convertibles. Roadsters don’t convert. Roadsters have no tops at all. Roadsters are four-wheeled motorcycles. You are out there in the elements, come rain or come shine. Ah, roadsters.
Also, like I said, Tesla is stretching the definition of “sports car” here because their new Roadster has four seats. It’s also unclear just how much room those two chairs in back offer. This could, effectively, be a 2 + 2. That would be tolerable, since some bonafide sports cars are 2 + 2s (Porsche 911s, for example), but if that back seat is actually usable for full grown adults (including fat, lazy American adults) rather than a coupe with dwarf-sized rear seating, then I’ll probably cringe a little bit more at the use of the term “sports car.”
But who cares about that stuff? Check out these specs!
Photo: Tesla Motors.
Power & Performance
Zero to 60 in 1.9 seconds! Zero to 100 comes up in 4.2! The quarter mile evaporates in 8.8! Top speed of “over” 250 miles an hour. The torque is 10,000 Nm . . . which is way, way more than seven-thousand foot pounds of torque. I mean, no wonder this thing runs a quarter almost a full second faster than a Kawasaki Ninja; I’ve seen bazooka rounds move slower. Shoot, I’ve seen pro-stock drag cars run slower than that. And this thing comes with a warranty.
Range? 620 miles. That is Detroit to Indianapolis and back with juice left over. Yeah, I know. Range numbers can be finicky, and yeah, I know, you won’t get 600 plus miles out of the thing if you’re blasting off a couple dozen quarter mile runs. But even taking that kind of stuff into consideration, “range anxiety” turns into “range reassurance” pretty quickly.
Oh, and the new Tesla Roadster is all-wheel drive. There’s no details on the drivetrain layout – or for that matter the batteries, where they’re located, weight distribution (shoot, all up weight either), controller specs, cooling needs, and the like – but Tesla has been motivating via all four wheels with both the Model S and the Model X, so my money is on some version of that drivetrain layout.
Photo: Tesla Motors.

Comparing & Contrasting
The Roadster has a curious resemblance to Porsche’s upcoming Mission E all-electric car. It has that same sinusoidal roof line and plunging roll-off from the front fenders and hood to the, uh, grill. There is a grill of some sort, low down and much smaller than a car with an internal combustion engine, and is most likely there to cool the controller and its subsystems, which can run hot.
The whole front end is much more aesthetically pleasing than the Porsche. Tesla’s Roadster doesn’t have the dubious headlights that the Mission E has, and although the Roadster’s lights are small and focused and downturned, they don’t come across nearly as squinty and angry as a lot of other modern cars that are dying to say, “look at me, I am a mean and purposeful performance car! Fear me!”
The rear of the Roadster has a very large central venturi tunnel, flanked by two smaller versions. This, undoubtedly, produces lots of downforce, but Tesla doesn’t give us any figures. Also undoubtedly, the underbody of the roadster is probably as smooth as a dolphin since there’s no stuff like drivelines and mufflers and all that. Going full EV must be such a joy to packaging engineers.
Photo: Tesla Motors.
Critical Questions
And now, a few inconsequential nit-pickings about those specs. Actually, I have only two. The first is that range number, which is honestly great. But we have to see how that will hold up in the real world, under real-world driving conditions. The other is that terminal velocity of “over 250 mph.” I’m not saying a road vehicle can’t do that, I just have some questions. Like, what kind of tires are you running? How many runs “over 250” can you do before you wear those factory tires down to the chords? How long can you sustain 250 mph before the batteries run dry? I’m not saying the Tesla Roadster can’t hit this speed, I just want to know a bunch about what goes along with that sort of V Max.
Elon Musk, head Tesla dude, personal friend of Tony Stark, very wealthy fiddler of rockets and maglev trains, implied during the roll out that one day, driving a gasoline car will be much less thrilling when compared to its electric counterparts. The crowd seemed very pleased by this. And I am too. The performance potential here, due in large part to the Roadster producing torque like an ocean-going tug, is the rolling definition of thrilling.
Tesla Founder Elon Musk reveals the new Roadster. Photo: Tesla Motors.

Pricing & Availability
Expect to see the Tesla Roadster in 2020. Nothing further than that, but whatever debut date Tesla eventually gives will probably be short by 10 months or so. There is, however, an answer to the question of “how much?” Simple: $200,000, starting. Oh, I do agree. That is a lot of money. Even if this thing can blow you so far off the road that Rui Faleiro couldn’t find you, 200 large is, well, 200 large.
And that’s just the base price. It will cost you $50,000 up front to get the base reservation so you can wait in line for your Tesla Roadster to show up. If you want it quicker, and want to be ushered to the very front of the line, then you need to pay $250,000 for the Founders Series Price. And, if you’d like, you can pay it right now. Tesla is already taking reservations.
When you think about it, $250,000 is what big bore Aston Martins and Porsches and even Ferraris cost. And the Tesla Roadster is not “within range” of those mighty offerings, it surpasses them. Easily. The upcoming Tesla Roadster just moved the performance envelope up and to the right, and it moved it a lot.
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.

Photos & Source: Tesla Motors.

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Nissan’s Midnight Editions Broken Down By Model

Nissan’s Midnight Editions Broken Down By Model

Nissan says for 2018, a portion of their lineup proves “black is the new black.” The phrase “the new black” originates from the fashion industry, meaning a given thing is suddenly all the rage. And saying black is the new back in the automotive industry is certifiably true, especially for Nissan. The automaker has moved 50,000 Midnight Edition themed vehicles this year alone.
Given the popularity, Nissan is expanding the Midnight Edition lineup to include Frontier, Titan, and Titan XD. Below is a breakdown of each Nissan Midnight edition by model.
“For 2018, we’ve developed a complete portfolio of the popular, blacked-out Midnight Edition look among nine of our most popular Nissan sedans, SUVs, and now pickups,” explained said Dan Mohnke, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing and Operations, Nissan Division U.S., Nissan North America, Inc. “These dramatic appearing Midnight Edition models reflect the popular aftermarket trend of blackout wheels and trim, but are ready to drive off the dealer lots with full factory quality and warranty coverage.”
Nissan Midnight Editions. Photo: Nissan North America.
Sentra Midnight Edition
Nissan’s small sedan gets rowdy with 17-inch black aluminum alloy wheels, black outside heated mirrors, black rear spoiler, black license plate finisher, and the black V-Motion grille. Available on Sentra SR.
Altima Midnight Edition
Available on the 2.5 SR, this Altima includes black 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, black mirror caps, black spoiler, black Altima and SR rear emblems, and a black rear license plate holder. Up font, Nissan’s signature V-Motion grille sets the stage for the Altima’s overall design. Inside, Prima-Tex heated seats and a navigation system are included.
Maxima Midnight Edition
One of our favorite Nissan cars, the Maxima in this variant (SR) receives a black sport spoiler, 19-inch gloss black aluminum alloy wheels with center caps, black Maxima and SR rear emblems, and a black V-Motion grille with lower surround. Other tech niceties include the Intelligent Around View Monitor and Intelligent Driver Alertness.
Nissan Maxima Midnight Edition. Photo: Nissan North America.
Rogue Midnight Edition
The Nissan Rogue Midnight Edition is like many of its SUV stablemates, sharing the signature black V-Motion grille, black roof rails, black rear license plate finisher, black cross bars, splash guards, and illuminated kickplates. Available on Rogue SV.
Murano Midnight Edition
Family-hauling won’t be boring here with 20-inch black aluminum alloy wheels, black outside mirrors, black roof rails, black license plate finisher, and black front and rear lower bumper accents. The V-Motion grille is front and center while black side body moldings, black splash guards, and illuminated kickplates finish off the appointments. Available on Murano SL.
Pathfinder Midnight Edition
Available on Pathfinder SL, this SUV features 20-inch black aluminum alloy wheels, black outside mirrors, black roof rails, black license plate finisher, and the black V-Motion grille. Further exterior appointments include black front and rear lower bumper accents, black rear spoiler, black splash guards, illuminated kickplates, and exterior approach lighting.
Nissan has expand the Midnight Edition package to include Frontier and Titan for 2018. Photo: Nissan North America.

Frontier Midnight Edition
The Frontier may be showing its age when compared to offerings from General Motors, Honda, and Toyota, but the Midnight Edtion treatments do dress the truck up. Expect to see a gloss-black grille, 18-inch gloss black aluminum alloy wheels, semi-gloss-black step rails, body-color front and rear bumpers, black outside rearview mirrors and door handles, and special floor mats.
The Midnight Edition Frontier is available in Crew Cab SV, 4×2 or 4×4, with an automatic transmission.
Titan & Titan XD Midnight Editions
The big rigs join the party with a special front grille, darker headlights, black fog light finishers, black outside rearview mirrors and door handles, step rails, and black exterior badging. There are 20-inch black aluminum alloy wheels, body-color front and rear bumpers, and charcoal interior trim. For the Titan, the Midnight Edition is available on Crew Cab SV and SL trims in either a 4×2 or 4×4 configuration. For the XD, it’s Crew Cab SV and SL grades, 4×4 only, and only with the available Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Midnight Editions are arriving at Nissan dealers nationwide, although some won’t be available until later in December. Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices for the individual Midnight Edition packages are below. Do you have a favorite Nissan Midnight Edition? Let us know on Twitter.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Altima SR Midnight Edition
$1,095
Frontier SV Midnight Edition
$995
Maxima SR Midnight Edition
$1,195
Pathfinder SL Midnight Edition
$1,395
Rogue SV Midnight Edition
$1,095
Sentra SR Midnight Edition
$495
Photos & Source: Nissan North America.

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2019 Corvette ZR1: Supercar? Hypercar? Or Something Else?

2019 Corvette ZR1: Supercar? Hypercar? Or Something Else?

“The 2019 Corvette ZR1, a supercar that pushes Corvette’s performance legacy with the highest power, greatest track performance, and most advanced technology in its production history.” That’s what Chevy says. Are they right? Oh yes. Oh my yes . . . mostly. It’s that “supercar” that gives me pause. Is this thing fast? Very much so. Quick? Senselessly so. Grip? Like a barnacle. Stops? Like a train hitting a bank building. Supercar? Hmmmm . . .
What’s In A Name?
Supercar is an interesting moniker. It used to be the top of the heap. The highest step on the ziggurat. It used to go like this: Car, sports car (which I still believe is one word) supercar, and now, hypercar. Cars are just cars, simple and utilitarian with enough “performance” to make their average owner wish for more convenient public transportation. Sports cars lode-stone toward the True North of performance at the expense of everything else (except style, if it’s an Italian sports car). Supercars are, or were, the best (of the best) a given automaker had to offer. Hypercars added another step to the pyramid (something within the rules in any technological game) and added enough high-velocity tech to the go/turn/stop derby to nearly keep up with an F1 car.
Interesting Perspectives
The problem with these demarcations is that, performance-wise, things are always shifting upward. Something as mundane and forgetful as a Toyota Camry probably could have sat on the pole at Le Mans in 1950. What passes for a good example of a sports car today, say a Porsche Cayman, could have won Le Mans outright in 1955. When the first modern Corvette ZR1 came out a while back, it was a near world-beater. If it could not outright defeat something like a Ferrari 458 Italia or the latest big gun 911 variant, it could at least run with them. Now? That “old” ZR1 has been pushed out of the supercar category and into the sports car class.
The new ZR1? Oh, it’s good. Very, very, oh so good. But the competition is fierce. Cars like the Ferrari 812 and Porsche 911 GT eat sharks for breakfast and wolverines as an afternoon snack. Can the 2019 Corvette ZR1 match that, let alone beat it? Dunno, since no one has driven the new ZR yet, but I swear on the grave of Zora Arkus-Duntov the new ZR1 looks, reads, and seems imposing. Dauntingly so.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Power & Performance
Under the huge composite clamshell hood of the ZR1 lives an LT5 6.2L V8 engine, delivering the highest output ever for a Chevrolet production vehicle. The mill and blower combo in this new ZR1 puts out 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft. of torque. That’s a significant gain for the Corvette, and it’s all down to a new, more-efficient intercooled supercharger system and a dual-fuel-injection system, which employs primary direct injection and supplemental port injection. In case you’re interested, those figures definitely put it in the ballpark with Ferrari and Porsche and Aston Martin, but being in the ballpark does not make you Joe DiMaggio. You might be Pee Wee Reese good, but not Joltin’ Joe good.
That extraordinary plant is mated to your choice of two transmissions: either a seven-speed manual or an eight-speed, paddle-shift automatic. Yes, one of them is a slush-box, but if it’s like the same unit found on “lesser” Vettes, (it is) it actually is a pretty good choice, although a full-blown semi-auto box should have been on offer.
Photo: Chevrolet.

Styling & Design
The 2019 Corvette ZR1’s appearance has been described as “aggressive,” which is sort of like saying a switchblade looks pointy. This thing is “aggressive” the way a gila monster is aggressive; like it’s going to champ onto your arm and never let go. The ZR1’s styling is largely driven by what the wind tunnel says it should be, which makes total sense, given the terminal velocity this thing can hit. The styling is, however, rather childish in its execution. It still looks like a Vette, that’s for sure, but one with a body kit Dominic Toretto would pick.
The front end is entirely new and designed to channel cooling air for the drivetrain’s massive thermal loads. The 2019 ZR1 has four new radiators, bringing the heat-exchanger total to 13. The hood is open in the middle to clear the LT5 engine’s supercharger/intercooler assembly and made of carbon-fiber. This new bodywork/aero package plus that fire-breathing engine make for a top speed of over 210 mph.
The ZR1 comes with two aero packages: a standard rear Low Wing, which gives you the highest top speed (obviously) and an available, two-way-adjustable High Wing that offers maximum downforce (obviously X 2). The adjustable High Wing is part of the new ZTK Performance Package, which also comes with a front splitter with carbon-fiber end caps, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 summer-only tires, and specific chassis and Magnetic Ride Control tuning for greater cornering grip; plus an unending sense of regret that your Corvette has this hideous wing perched high off the back that would seem right at home on a slammed, stanced, totally rad, sick, and off-the-chain Honda Civic. Really Corvette people? Really? I know it makes (a ton of) downforce, but really?
Photo: Chevrolet.
Orange Fury
Speaking of questionable aesthetic choices: orange. Orange is one of those colors that few people are ambivalent about. Strangely, I am one of them, but boy howdy are the pictures of the new ZR1 orange. And I mean hit of Orange Sunshine LSD orange. Chevy calls the color Sebring Orange Tintcoat and it is, unsurprisingly, part of the Sebring Orange Design Package. The package also includes orange brake calipers, orange rocker and splitter accent stripes, orange seat belts, orange interior stitching, and bronze aluminum interior trim. No word on an orange-trimmed motion sickness bag.
The 2019 Corvette ZR1 goes on sale next spring and no, they didn’t mention the price. Would I buy one? Yes. A definite, hard maybe . . . with the low wing package.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Photos & Source: Chevrolet.

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