Carbon 65 Corvette To Be Auctioned To Benefit Veterans

Carbon 65 Corvette To Be Auctioned To Benefit Veterans

General Motors is putting the first retail production Carbon 65 Edition Corvette up for auction to benefit veterans and their families. GM has partnered with the George W. Bush Presidential Center to benefit the Military Service Initiative, which helps post-9/11 veterans and their families adjust to civilian life.
“GM and Chevrolet are teaming up with the George W. Bush Presidential Center to honor and support those who have served and sacrificed to protect the security and freedom of all Americans,” reads a statement from General Motors.
Invisible Wounds
The Military Service Initiative works with communities, non-profit organizations, businesses, academia, and other outlets to provide for the health of post-9/11 veterans and their families. The focus is on helping veterans make a successful transition back to normal life, no matter what that may entail. Some veterans face feelings of isolation, others struggle finding meaningful employment, and all carry the invisible wounds of war. The Military Service Initiative works to address these issues and concerns for veterans and their families.
What’s polarizing is the increasing military-civilian divide. The George W. Bush Presidential Center cites research where 70 percent of Americans say they have little to no understanding of what post-9/11 veterans must overcome. Veterans and their families second that with 84 percent saying the public has “little awareness” of the issues and challenges they face.
GM says about 6,000 veterans work for the automaker currently with another 50,000 retirees having already served.
2018 Chevrolet Corvette Carbon 65 Edition at the 101st Running of the Indianapolis 500, May 28th 2017. Photo: Carl Anthony for Automoblog.net.
Carbon 65 Features
The Carbon 65 celebrates 65 years of the Corvette; the first one rolled off the line on June 30th 1953. The package is offered on Grand Sport 3LT and Z06 3LZ trims (order code Z30) but limited to just 650 units. The package marries carbon fiber elements with a new Ceramic Matrix Gray exterior color and a blue top, if it’s a convertible. Carbon fiber treatments include the ground effects, hood section, spoiler, roof (coupe), or tonneau inserts (convertible). The blue Brembo brake calipers compliment either the Cup-style wheels for the Grand Sport or the Blade-style wheels for the Z06.
Inside, drivers will find a Jet Black interior theme with blue stitching and competition seats. The carbon fiber treatments continue throughout the interior, most notably on the steering wheel. Each Carbon 65 Edition Corvette comes with a special identification number.
Auction Info
The auction will be held on Saturday, January 20th at 4:30pm PST. Additional details about the Barrett-Jackson auction and how to bid can be found here.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 
Corvette Carbon 65 Edition Gallery














Photos & Source: Chevrolet.



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Kia Hits Value & Performance Sweet Spot With Stinger Pricing

Kia Hits Value & Performance Sweet Spot With Stinger Pricing

The Kia Stinger arrives next month as the automaker’s highest-performing production vehicle. In a fastback segment typically dominated by European marquees, Kia will stand with the likes of Audi, BMW, and Porsche. We recently dove deep into car’s specifications and they are impressive to say the least. Pricing was recently announced for the Stinger which will come in five different trim levels.
Power & Performance
The entry level Stinger rides on a passive but balanced suspension for comfort and handling. The GT is available with Dynamic Stability Damping Control (a Kia first) and Brembo brakes. On offer are two turbocharged engines: the base Stinger and the Premium feature a 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder Theta II plant, producing 255 horsepower (6,200 rpm) and 260 lb-ft. of torque. Torque is available from 1,400 to 4,000 rpm, giving the Stinger a reasonable 0 to 60 time of 5.9 seconds with this engine.
The 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 Lambda II engine packs 365 horsepower (6,000 rpm) and 376 lb-ft. of torque, available from 1,350 to 4,500 rpm. With this engine, the Stinger enters the segment with more power than the Audi S5 Sportback, BMW 440i Gran Coupe, and Infiniti Q50. With the V6 Lambda II engine, the Stinger GT hits 60 in 4.7 seconds, which is quicker than the six-cylinder Porsche Panamera.
The Audi S5 Sportback with its 3.0-liter turbocharged engine hits 60 in 4.5 seconds, just an ounce faster than the Stinger. However, given Kia has never competed in this segment but are coming in with something as strong as the Stinger,  we are inclined to give them a pass.
“The Stinger is a prime example of Kia’s commitment to surpassing consumers’ expectations in everything we do,” commented Orth Hedrick, Vice President of Product Planning, Kia Motors America.
Both engines are matched to a second-generation, eight-speed rear-drive automatic transmission Kia developed in-house. All-wheel drive is available across the Stinger lineup.





Interior Appointments
All Stingers come standard with a leather-appointed cabin, although ultra-soft Nappa leather is available. Air-cell bladders and width-adjusting bolsters are available for the driver’s seat for additional comfort. A thick, hand-stitched leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters is standard, but GT buyers receive a flat-bottom steering wheel.The Stinger also comes with a generous array of connectivity, infotainment, and entertainment features, including an available Harman Kardon 720 watt audio system.
Pricing Comparison
The 2018 Kia Stinger provides solid performance for the dollar, regardless of which trim buyers opt for. The entry level Singer starts at $31,900; the Premium at $37,100, and the GT at $38,350. The GT1 comes in at $43,250 with the GT2 ringing the cash register at $49,200. All-wheel drive runs an additional $2,200; the destination charge is $900.
“Although the Stinger is unlike any other Kia that has come before it in terms of pure driving enjoyment, it is still very much a traditional Kia,” Hedrick explained. “It offers consumers a very compelling value proposition, providing excellent performance and handling, premium features, and functionality when compared to its much higher-priced competitors.”
By comparison, the 2018 Infiniti Q50 starts at $34,200 for the Pure RWD trim with a 2.0-liter turbo engine, and goes as high $53,000 (starting MSRP) in its top variant, the Red Sport 400 AWD. The Q50 also has a hybrid option which starts at $50,600 – tack on $2,000 to make the hybrid all-wheel drive. Conversely, the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback starts at $54,400 for the Premium Plus grade and goes as high as $59,000 (starting MSRP) for the 2018 S5 Coupe Prestige.
Pricing can vary on today’s vehicles – sometimes greatly – especially when considering each different package or individual options. Still, it is our belief the Stinger is priced correctly for the segment and will provide strong performance for the money.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.  
2018 Kia Stinger Gallery











Photos & Source: Kia Motors America, Infiniti Motor Company Ltd., Audi of America, Inc.



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Groupe Renault Demonstrates Autonomous Technology

Groupe Renault Demonstrates Autonomous Technology


Groupe Renault recently revealed their latest autonomous control systems, designed to handle a number of challenging and differing scenarios. The system’s obstacle avoidance capabilities are of particular note as Groupe Renault modeled professional test drivers during development at the Renault Open Innovation Lab in Silicon Valley. This latest initiative by Renault expands their ADAS and vehicle safety programs and is an important next step for the automaker in utilizing automated technology.
“At Groupe Renault, we are focused on being an innovation leader in products, technology, and design,” said Simon Hougard, Director of Renault Open Innovation Lab – Silicon Valley. “Our innovation efforts aim at developing advanced autonomous driving technologies that consumers can trust will create a safer, more comfortable journey.”
Key Locations
The Renault Open Innovation Lab is critical for Renault as they look to establish themselves as a leader in safety and autonomy. The automaker is seeking to becoming one of the first brands to offer “Mind Off” technology for mainstream vehicles, while also having the capability to deploy fleets of robot cars. It’s expected that 15 Renault models will offer different levels of autonomous capability by 2022.
Demonstration Video
The video below shows Callie, Renault’s autonomous car, demonstrating the obstacle avoidance feature. Not only was the system inspired by and modeled after professional drivers, but it was actually tested against them. Callie does a pretty good job maneuvering in and out of the cones. Using professional drivers to develop autonomous vehicles is interesting, especially since Renault has returned to Formula One and has a strong commitment to Formula E. Renault has said they view such ventures as “vectors of innovation.” It’s very well possible those “vectors of innovation” have influenced their latest automated driving initiatives.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 

Photo, Video & Source: Groupe Renault.



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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.
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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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