World’s First Driverless Ride-Hailing Service is Almost Here

World’s First Driverless Ride-Hailing Service is Almost Here
FCA US LLC will supply thousands of Chrysler Pacifica Hybrids to Waymo to support the launch of the world’s first driverless ride-hailing service. FCA previously delivered 100 self-driving Pacifica Hybrids to Waymo during the second half of 2016, plus an additional 500 last year. Waymo will open their autonomous ride-hailing service to the public later this year in Phoenix, Arizona.
Essential Partnerships
One of the goals for FCA and Waymo was to develop an autonomous vehicle for mass production. The partnership paired FCA and Waymo engineers together who devised ways to implement Waymo’s automated technology into the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Leaders from both companies say leveraging each other’s strengths, experiences, and resources is critical for the successful and safe implementation of autonomous driving.
“With the world’s first fleet of fully self-driving vehicles on the road, we’ve moved from research and development, to operations and deployment,” explained John Krafcik, CEO of Waymo. “The Pacifica Hybrid minivans offer a versatile interior and a comfortable ride experience, and these additional vehicles will help us scale.”
“In order to move quickly and efficiently in autonomy, it is essential to partner with like-minded technology leaders,” added Sergio Marchionne, Chief Executive Officer, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.
Photo: FCA US LLC.
Testing & Expansion
Last November, Waymo began testing a fleet of autonomous Chrysler Pacifica Hybrids on public roads, meaning the minivans became the first vehicle to attain Level 4 autonomy as defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers. The additional Pacifica Hybrid minivans will support Waymo’s expansion of the driverless ride-hailing service to more cities across the United States. Waymo has already conducted testing in 25 cities, including Atlanta, San Francisco, Detroit, Phoenix, and Kirkland, Washington. Overall, FCA and Waymo logged more than 4 million miles of on-road testing and over a billion in simulation.
“Our partnership with Waymo continues to grow and strengthen; this represents the latest sign of our commitment to this technology,” Marchionne said.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.



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2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring Review

2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring Review


The Mazda6 Grand Touring isn’t perfect, but it might be the sportiest midsize sedan on the market. If you like to drive, Mazda knows how to entertain your passion for taking the curves a bit faster than the average commuter. This sedan also looks the part on the outside. Mazda designers cranked up their styling juices and have given the car a good dose of sleek. This vehicle is not all show either – it will also go!
What’s New For 2017
The Mazda6 gets some minor updates for 2017, including the now standard Mazda Connect infotainment system. It also gets G-Vectoring Control: computer-controlled braking of the individual wheels through corners, bringing increased stability and improved handling.
Features & Options
The 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring ($30,695) comes with 19-inch wheels, automatic wipers, advanced keyless entry, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision mitigation, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
The top-of-the-line Grand Touring also features LED foglights, automatic high beams, a rear trunklid spoiler, steering-wheel-mounted paddles shifters, a traffic sign reader with speed warnings, heads-up display, universal garage door opener, navigation, leather upholstery, and an eight-way power driver’s seat with memory functions (six-way power front passenger seat).
The optional GT Premium package ($2,500) added Mazda’s i-Eloop brake regeneration system that increases fuel efficiency. Also included were active grille shutters, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, premium Nappa leather sport seats, interior ambient lighting, a black headliner, and unique interior trim elements. Total MSRP including destination: $34,695.





Interior Highlights
The material quality is high and the styling inside the Mazda6 is first rate. We had a black with white interior trim on our tester which is our favorite cabin look. Stepping inside you’ll notice a sweeping dash crowned by a bright new seven-inch infotainment display screen. The Mazda Connect infotainment system is quick enough, but the control device is somewhat uncooperative and the mapping isn’t as good as some rivals.
The sport seats offer excellent support for spirited driving, and the Nappa leather on the Grand Touring gives the sedan a luxurious feel. We enjoyed the heated steering wheel and seats as a cold snap hit the front range of the Rocky Mountains near Denver this week. There’s impressive interior space up front, and there’s good leg and knee room in the rear, even for taller adults. The sporty styling does cut down on rear passenger headroom with the raked roofline, however. 
The cabin is quiet on the road at highway speeds, and visibility is improved with the use of high-strength steel in the roof pillars, allowing them to be a bit narrower. The split rear seats fold forward for additional cargo room, and the trunk offers 14.8 cubic feet of space with a wide load opening.







Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2017 Mazda6 comes with one engine, a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder with SkyActiv technology. With direct injection, variable valve control, and a 14:1 compression ratio (in pursuit of fuel mileage), it produces 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft. of torque. We had the optional 6-speed sport mode automatic transmission.
The Mazda6 with an automatic gets an EPA estimated 27/35 city/highway and 30 combined mpg. We averaged an impressive 31.2 mpg for the week at altitude.
Driving Dynamics
True to Mazda vehicles being known for their good balance and handling, the Mazda6 maintains that standard, and even ups the game a few notches on the fun-to-drive meter. We are probably being picky when it comes to power, but we felt the 2.5-liter engine could use a bit more. We understand Mazda is trying to keep fuel mileage up and they succeeded in that department. Overall, the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is smooth and it’s a joy to drive with the 6-speed automatic and steering wheel paddle shifters. This engine likes to rev and the paddle shifters give you the ability to get the most from this engine. 
The Mazda6 came alive on the curvy roads we tested it on near Evergreen, Colorado. The steering felt solid and communicative, the ride was firm and planted with the 19-inch wheels on the Grand Touring trim. If you are looking for a plush sedan ride, the Mazda6 is probably not for you. If you like to drive, it’s the best in this segment. With the new G-Vectoring Control, the Mazda6 now applies braking to separate front wheels in the corners, shifting weight forward and increasing grip so the turn-in is more secure. When it releases, weight shifts to the rear for improved balance.
Conclusion
The 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring looks good and it feels even better when you get behind the wheel. The sedan handles exceptionally well, the ride is firm and sporty, and the response from the steering and automatic transmission is what driving enthusiasts will enjoy on the commute. The 2017 Mazda6 is a competent, comfortable, and enjoyable midsize sedan.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
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Mazda6 Official Site.
Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
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Best Gifts For The Car Lover On Your Shopping List

Best Gifts For The Car Lover On Your Shopping List

The holidays are quickly approaching, and with all the seasonal excitement comes new trends and must-have items. For those looking to impress the car lover on their gift list, there are upgrades that can provide them an improved look, better performance, and more comfort and convenience. Below are some suggestions (and predictions) for must-have items for the car enthusiast on your holiday shopping list.
Appealing To The Car Enthusiast
For those passionate about all things auto, it is especially important to keep up with new accessories that are designed to make the driving experience even more enjoyable. One product category to consider is LED lights, which allow for a unique level of customization while providing improved safety for the driver. LED headlights are a more concentrated light source so drivers can see further, whether at night or during poor weather conditions. As an added bonus, LED lights have an extended lifespan that will last long after the holiday season.
Another add-on that is popular for the enthusiast driver is performance exhaust kits. These kits serve several purposes, including improved styling, increased horsepower and torque, and the distinct sound only an aftermarket upgrade can give. If you are shopping for someone focused on looks, exhaust systems made of polished steel are especially popular. Luckily, for those shopping for systems that will change the sound of the vehicle, many sites now provide audio files that will allow you to hear the end result before you buy. Considering the many benefits a performance kit provides, it is a substantial bang for your buck. However, if you’re not ready to make a big ticket purchase, you can also buy performance parts, such as exhaust tips, incrementally.
Lastly, you can never go wrong with a unique body kit, especially as the “sporty look” has taken off in recent years. These kits allow drivers to make their prized possession stand out on the road, and have the added benefit of improved aerodynamics. If you aren’t sure if your car lover is ready for a full vehicle overhaul, these parts can also be purchased individually – this will help ease them into their auto makeover.




Benefiting The Family
Once you start a family, the focus for car fans often shifts from flashy looks and performance toward staying safe and organized. In may cases, the vehicle has become a work and play station. For the family man or woman, gifts that can protect both the owner and the vehicle are most practical, and in turn most popular. Custom seat covers and floor mats preserve the car’s interior and protect from outside forces that can be a pain to remove, such as mud or snow. Another way to protect against potential stains and messes is by keeping all participants happy with in-car entertainment systems. While many new models come with these systems pre-installed, vehicle owners with older rides have been eager, in recent years, to modify their vehicle with video systems that install in the headrests or pull down from the ceiling.
While these add-ons are all good options, keeping the family safe and secure is the chief concern. As vehicle safety continues to evolve, so does the availability of high-tech safety accessories like back-up cameras, 360-degree vision cameras, and devices that provide a “birds eye view” of all potential blind spots. Consider the long-term value this could provide to a potential friend or family member when thinking of your gift list.
Truck Owners
For truck drivers especially, their ride is a source of pride and they will look to accessories that show off their unique tastes. Bars, racks, and aftermarket lighting accessories all serve the dual purpose of added style with increased functionality. A truck’s bed is one of its most prized features as it can make transporting just about anything significantly easier. Consider giving the gift of protection with custom bed liners that will save the truck from damage and protect its future value from issues like rust and corrosion. Certain liners are even built to block out extreme weather and airborne pollutants.




New Drivers
For younger drivers, tech and gadgets have been an integral part of their day-to-day lives for as long as they can remember. For this group of car lovers, consider electronics that keep them connected and make driving safer. Some must-have items include Bluetooth kits, phone mounts, or additional chargers.
While not as glamorous as gifting the latest in connected gear, every new driver needs a few basics things to ensure they are prepared for the worst case scenario. If you want to focus on safety, personal emergency kits should contain a blanket, flashlight, portable shovel, and flares. As we approach colder weather, it also wouldn’t hurt to look into high-quality ice scrapers or snow brushes for a practical gift.
Every holiday season, the aftermarket industry is tasked to address changing consumer preferences, especially as our cars become increasingly more connected and tech-driven. With new, high-quality products being introduced every day, you’re sure to find the gift that is right for the auto enthusiast in your life.
Richard Reina is a Product Trainer at CARiD.com and lifelong automotive enthusiast.
Photos: CARiD.com.
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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
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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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2019 Chevy Corvette ZR1 Scores Record Lap In Virginia (Video)

2019 Chevy Corvette ZR1 Scores Record Lap In Virginia (Video) The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 arrives this spring and fans will likely be jazzed at the latest news concerning the bowtie’s pinnacle performance car. The 2019 ZR1 recently scored a record lap time on the 4.1-mile Grand Course West at Virginia International Raceway with a time of 2:37.25.
“The Corvette ZR1’s lap record at VIR, arguably America’s most challenging road course, is a testament to its supercar status,” said Mark Reuss, GM Executive Vice President, Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain.
Icing On The Cake
The record lap at VIR was set last month during routine validation and performance testing. The stock ZR1 was configured per the standard track and aerodynamic settings recommended by the owner’s manual. The ZR1 was finalizing its 24 hours of at-limit track testing, with multiple GM Performance engineers logging laps, including vehicle dynamics engineer Jim Mero who set the record.
“The track had been empty since mid-December, so it was a bit slow when we started, but the conditions turned pretty quick at the end,” explained Alex MacDonald, Manager, Chevrolet Vehicle Performance. “On the heels of announcing our Z06 time of 2:39.77, the ZR1 lap time is the icing on the cake.”
Power & Performance
The ZR1’s LT5 6.2L supercharged V8 is the most powerful production Chevy engine yet, complete with 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft. of torque. The engine also features GM’s first application of a dual-fuel-injection system, which includes direct injection (primary) and port injection (secondary). The engine is paired to either a seven-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. The latter was equipped to the record-setting ZR1 at VIR.
The new ZR1 features a larger, 2.65-liter supercharger that generates more boost but spins slightly slower when compared to the LT4 engine of the prior generation. This reduces heat and parasitic loss while lowering air intake temperatures for better performance. There are 13 radiators total, four of which are new to facilitate cooling between the engine oil, transmission, and differential.
Photo: Richard Prince/Chevrolet.
Vital Equipment
The record-setting ZR1 was also equipped with five-point harnesses, a harness bar, track seats, and the ZTK Performance Package, which includes an adjustable carbon-fiber High Wing, a front splitter with carbon-fiber end caps, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 summer-only tires, and specific chassis and Magnetic Ride Control tuning. Helping control the ZR1 around VIR for the record lap was a unique, hybrid material Brembo braking system.
“On the racetrack, the ZR1 can compete with any supercar – at any price,” Reuss said.
“It’s not too often you set a lap record during validation testing,” MacDonald added.
When it arrives the spring, the 2019 Chevy Corvette ZR1 will start at $119,995, with the ZTK Performance Package going for $2,995.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.

Photos, Video & Source: Chevrolet.



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Toyota Issues Recall For Certain Prius And Lexus Vehicles

Toyota Issues Recall For Certain Prius And Lexus Vehicles Toyota Motor North America, Inc. has announced a safety recall in the United States of approximately 49,000 model year 2016 Prius and Lexus RX vehicles, and model year 2015 and 2016 Lexus NX vehicles. Toyota says the vehicles have air bag systems where an open circuit could be created over time.  If this were to occur, the air bag warning light will illuminate and the side and curtain shield air bags and/or front air bags may not deploy.
This may increase the risk of injury to the occupants in the event of a crash.
Further Information
For all involved vehicles, dealers will inspect the serial number of the sensors and replace them with new ones, if necessary, at no cost. All known owners will receive a notification by first-class mail starting in late March. Toyota, Lexus, and Scion owners are encouraged to check and see if their vehicle is under this or any other outstanding recalls. Similar information is available through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration here.
Toyota is encouraging those with additional questions to contact Toyota Customer Service at 1-800-331-4331, or Lexus Customer Service at 1-800-255-3987.



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Ford Raptor Coloring Book Provides Family Fun (And It’s Free)

Ford Raptor Coloring Book Provides Family Fun (And It’s Free)

The older I get, the more I sometimes miss childhood. And it’s funny, becasue when I was a kid, I could not wait to grow up. Naturally, I was going to do whatever I wanted, eat whatever I felt like, and I was never, under any circumstances, going to take a nap. Adults, in my young mind, had all the fun; why my parents, teachers, and neighbors said “oh, don’t be in a hurry to grow up” was always beyond me.
Raptors & Crayolas
A few years ago, a friend mentioned her collection of adult coloring books, a newer but increasing trend with proven therapeutic benefits. She said it was a way for her to balance adulthood with her inner child. A recent Raptor coloring booklet from Blue Springs Ford Parts has us thinking it’s time to get a box of crayons for around the office. The coloring booklet is free and features two profile shots of the Ford Raptor, and two of the truck canvassing rough terrain.
What color will your Raptor be? This is one of the pages from the new Raptor coloring booklet released by Blue Springs Ford Parts.
Good Therapy
In 2005, Dr. Tim Kasser, Professor and Chair of Psychology at Knox College and student Nancy Curry co-authored Can Coloring Mandalas Reduce Anxiety. Their research showed adults who color before a stressful event may reduce any anxiety stemming from said event. Both Dr. Kasser and Curry say coloring is a healthy activity and can provide adults a welcome break from the computer or e-mail account. The Raptor booklet from Blue Springs Ford Parts can also be enjoyed by the whole family.
“I know one thing – my kids love it,” explained Kyle Harris, Director at Blue Springs Ford Parts. “Every kid I know loves trucks, and every truck enthusiast I know loves the Raptor.”
The free Ford Raptor coloring booklet is available now. Blue Springs Ford Parts is a top-rated retailer of OEM Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury replacements parts, with online ordering offered 24 hours a day.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 
Cover Photo: Ford Motor Company.



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