Automotive

2019 Toyota Yaris Review: Small & Steady Wins The Race

2019 Toyota Yaris Review: Small & Steady Wins The Race 90Solid2019 Toyota Yaris Overall ImpressionDon't judge a book by the cover!It's small but more fun than it looks!Great option for a first-time buyer.ProsHandlingFuel Economy Standard Features ConsRear Passenger RoomThere’s more choices in the compact sedan market than ever with affordable and fuel-efficient models across the segment. But what if you are searching for one that’s also packed with lots of safety features and still enjoyable to drive? The 2019 Toyota Yaris is a car you should have on your shopping list, especially if you have a younger person in your home heading to college.
This week, we’ve been driving the 2019 Toyota Yaris XLE.
What’s New For 2019
Last year’s Yaris iA has been renamed to just Yaris. The compact car comes as a sedan only, although there’s new front and rear styling treatments. Three trim levels are now available: L, LE, and XLE.
Features & Options: Nicely Balanced
The top-trim 2019 Toyota Yaris XLE comes standard with forward collision warning, low-speed automatic emergency braking, a rearview camera, and a height-adjustable driver’s seat. Infotainment features include the center console controller, a seven-inch display, voice recognition, Bluetooth, two USB ports, an auxiliary audio jack, HD and satellite radio, and a six-speaker sound system.
The XLE gets upgrades over the standard model with 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, a rear spoiler, heated outside mirrors, LED turn signals, and keyless ignition and entry. The XLE loses the option of the manual transmission but gains automatic LED headlights, automatic wipers and climate control, simulated leather upholstery, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Two drive settings (Normal and Sport) complete the list of features for the 2019 Toyota Yaris XLE.
Total MSRP including destination: $19,470. By comparison, the 2019 Toyota Yaris starts at $15,450.
2019 Toyota Yaris interior layout.
Interior Highlights: Softer Yet High-Tech
Despite the lower price point, the cabin impressed us from the moment we jumped inside. The upright touchscreen and circular vents come right from the page of a Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class. It’s unusual to find this kind of material quality and fit and finish in a subcompact costing less than $20,000. There’s plenty of soft-touch materials throughout, and the infotainment system features the kind of connectivity a high-tech generation wants.
The seven-inch touchscreen kept our attention with its easy-to-read display. Room up front is typical for a subcompact but rear passengers will feel a bit cramped on longer jaunts around town. The rear seats fold flat and open up to the sedan’s trunk to accommodate extra cargo. For a young college student, there is enough room for books, groceries, and laundry.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2019 Toyota Yaris is powered by a 1.5-liter engine producing an ample 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft. of torque. Although small, the engine uses direct injection and variable valve timing with a 12:1 compression ratio to increase performance and efficiency. EPA fuel economy figures are 32/40 city/highway and 35 combined with the six-speed automatic gearbox.
In terms of fuel economy, the 2019 Toyota Yaris leads the pack when compared to other small cars.

Related: Another detailed look at the 2019 Toyota Yaris.
Driving Dynamics: More Fun Than It Looks
There’s a lot to like about the Yaris with its sporty driving dynamics. It’s a driver’s car from the start and offers plenty of fun for urban-dwellers. We drove the compact sedan through the streets of Denver, and mountains west of the city to give it a thorough testing. When we hit snow this week, the front-wheel drive Yaris had no problem on the roads.
The Yaris hugged the mountain curves with ease and has little body lean. The automatic gearbox is a nice change from CVT transmissions which are common in smaller cars today. The six-speed automatic never hunted for the right gear and it doesn’t have the annoying whine normally associated with a CVT.
On the open road, the power could be more, but it’s just fine for urban commuters and students traveling home for the weekend. As we motored through the city, the Yaris is the ideal size. Visibility is good and the handling is tight with MacPherson struts in front and the torsion beam in the rear.
Conclusion: An Affordable Option
For fuel mileage and city commuting, the 2019 Toyota Yaris is the way to go. It’s affordable and offers a more engaging driving experience than other small cars on the market.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Toyota Yaris Gallery

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

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Letter From The UK: Mini At Sixty: A Personal View

Letter From The UK: Mini At Sixty: A Personal View Geoff Maxted, founder of DriveWrite Automotive, examines how one tiny car changed the course of history.
After World War II, it became apparent that the cars of Britain were dated in both technology and design at a time when petrol was still rationed and people were recovering from the horror of conflict. As a nation we needed cheering up. The big, black behemoths of the automotive pre-war years were starting to look their age and consumed scarce fuel at an alarming rate.
Meanwhile, across the pond, the American car industry was burgeoning with fantastic, chrome-bright and modern vehicles rolling off the production lines. Something needed to be done.
Early Days: Instant Allure
One day, a man said, “Hang on a minute lads, I’ve got a great idea.” Unfortunately for my story, that man was Michael Caine in The Italian Job movie. It is not known what the engineer Alec Issigonis said when he came up with the great idea of the transverse engine in a very small and economical car, but the outcome was a vehicle that in 1959 transformed an industry.
The British Motor Corporation Mini was born.
Although front-wheel drive was not a new idea, the genius of turning the diminutive 850cc BMC ‘A’ Series four-cylinder engine sideways to allow 80 percent of the floorpan of this small car to be given over to passengers and luggage was. The Mini, with its funky round centre console and 18-inch long stick shift, went on to become the iconic car of the 1960’s and was the true star of The Italian Job. The Mini continued to be popular for the next two decades, over which time it evolved, becoming perhaps less attractive but certainly more advanced.
Despite the instant allure, the fact is the build quality, especially by today’s standards, was terrible. It was a cheap car and made no apologies for that. The Mini was a ‘people’s car,’ a four-seat runaround for the sweaty masses and the masses bought into it in droves. It handled well, sipped fuel, and offered the average driver that ‘in-crowd’ vibe.
Photo: BMW Group PressClub UK.
Related: Looking back to a time when tiny cars ruled the Earth.
The Mini Was My First Car
It came courtesy of my father, who was a policeman and therefore knew people who knew people and was thus able to source things through, let’s say, alternative channels. My car was stripped out inside, although there wasn’t much in there in the first place. It had spent its early years as a modest race car, seen regularly in local events at the famous Brands Hatch circuit.
The race car engine was stripped out (Boo!) and replaced by the standard unit but it didn’t take long to replace the cylinder head with a tuned job, and add a few other unwise modifications to give it a little bit more go. To be honest, I didn’t give much thought to improved braking and the like but, you know, I was young.
In due course, the car was replaced with a nice red Mini Cooper which brought down the vital zero to 60 time to a breathtaking 17.2 seconds. My friends even bought me a drilled-out, wood-rimmed steering wheel for my birthday. Yes folks, it was a babe magnet all right; it’s just that when they saw the driver . . .
Photo: BMW Group PressClub.
Latter Years: The Bell Tolls
From inception, the Mini proved immensely popular in Motorsport as people found ways to tune or replace the original puny power plant. By 1964, the car was sweeping the board on the international rally scene. The company jumped on this and quickly introduced the more powerful Cooper and Cooper S versions, the latter even making an appearance as a police car. Later variants lost that early magic as designers struggled to stretch out the useful life of the model and sales slumped as the car became superseded by other designs.
Eventually the bell tolled in 2000. The Mini was no more.
Of course, time moves on for us all and the desire for bigger, faster cars took over. Even my Cooper was passed on to the new kid on the block as I was dragged, kicking and screaming, into the world of grown-up motoring.
The Lovable Rascal Returns
When BMW absorbed what was left of the moribund UK company, now called the British Leyland Group, it stripped out the assets but retained the Mini name. This was a smart move as it turned out because, although the car was no longer being built, it remained popular as enthusiasts, to this day, continued to keep fifty-year-old cars on the road, thus maintaining the legend.
The German brand was quick to see the opening of a niche and began producing the Mini as we know it in the 21st Century. As a clever marketing ploy, they retained the round centre dash but now packed it with the latest technology. Although purists may grumble, BMW have somehow managed to incorporate at least some of the historic sense of the original car into a modern product, even if the lovable rascal has grown up and gained weight and a big city suit.
Photo: BMW Group PressClub UK.
Rose-Tinted Glasses
The hard truth is that in so many ways, the latest version is far better than the original from 60 years ago. Although, anyone who loves cars would give almost anything to own a 1959 original. I know I would.
After the war years, Britain yearned for a fresh start and, for young people at least, that fresh start began in 1959 with Ricky Nelson and Elvis Presley and Marty Wilde (UK rocker. You had to be there.) And of course the BMC Mini. The 1960’s blossomed into an era of new music, new fashions led by the likes of Mary Quant and Carnaby Street, free love and better prospects and free love (so uninhibited I mentioned it twice!).
It was time of peace and rejuvenation and the Mini ruled. It was more than just transport; a whole generation suddenly had the freedom of the road and we made the most of it. At least I think that’s how I remember it. It’s all a bit hazy, man.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite
International Mini Meeting 2017 (Westport House, Ireland) Gallery

Gallery & Cover Photos: BMW Group PressClub.

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Infiniti QX Inspiration: The Potential of Empty Spaces & The Art of Origami

Infiniti QX Inspiration: The Potential of Empty Spaces & The Art of Origami The QX Inspiration is Infiniti’s foray into the EV market.
It has a pair of electric motors and an electric all-wheel drive system.
The coach doors, cab-forward design, and other styling elements are inspired by Japanese culture.
It’s hard to describe the Infiniti QX Inspiration Concept. After all, we’re talking about a concept car here. From the looks of it, the QX is a small and compact SUV on steroids. However, it does give the Lamborghini Urus and Maserati Levante a serious run for cash in terms of design. Despite this, I will reserve my final judgment until the production model is seen in the flesh. As we all know, concept cars are merely a stretch of the imagination.
You can even call them pipe dreams if you want.
But the biggest problem with concept cars is they are merely concepts, and the end result is usually a watered-down version of the original design. The Subaru WRX Concept in 2013, or the Pontiac Sunfire Concept in back 1990 suddenly come to mind.
And since the Infiniti QX Inspiration is a preview of what’s to come as the brand’s first fully-electric vehicle, I’m betting the production version will look pretty similar to the concept. It has to be. How else will it steal the thunder from the Audi e-tron and Jaguar I-PACE? Of course, it also has the Mercedes EQ C and Tesla Model S in its sights, so it better be more than just a looker.
Electrified Powertrain: An Inflection Point
Infiniti has yet to divulge any real crucial performance info about the QX Inspiration. Things like battery capacity, range, and torque ratings are forthcoming but it seems as if Infiniti wants us to think beyond horsepower ratings and top speed. For example, during the 2019 North American International Auto Show, the QX Inspiration won Best Future Concept in The Detroit News Readers’ Choice Awards.
We do know, however, there are two electric motors (one on each axle) and an e-AWD system. The latter is Infiniti-speak for electric all-wheel drive, similar to the electric Quattro drivetrain in the Audi e-tron SUV. The QX Inspiration is based on an entirely new platform, allowing the battery pack to live below the vehicle floor. Infiniti says this will help lower the center of gravity for more precise handling.
“The decision to electrify the Infiniti range was an inflection point for our brand,” explained Alfonso Albaisa, Senior Vice President for Global Design, Nissan Motor Company. “We started to understand the potential of new architectures and technologies and how they could influence a change in how we design our cars.”
Infiniti QX Inspiration Concept. Photo: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.
Related: The best states for EV ownership.
Turning Japanese: Artistry & Imagination
Infiniti wants us mostly to focus on the origami-inspired styling and minimalist exterior design. With finely-balanced organic shapes and a mixture of straight lines, sharp creases, and smooth surfaces, the Japanese DNA is very much evident in the Infiniti QX Inspiration. The front has thin headlamps and an illuminated Infiniti logo. On the other hand, there is no grille or air intake on the front.
But the designers wisely retained the silhouette of an actual grille to give the QX Inspiration a very distinct look. This meant adopting an approach which focused on the open space between the concept’s lines. In particular, Infiniti’s designers were drawn to the character of paper and the art of origami.
“With the QX Inspiration concept, we were inspired by the Japanese concept of Ma, a focus on the lines and the empty space in between,” said Karim Habib, Infiniti Executive Design Director. “What is happening in that space between the lines – the free, natural flow of surfaces – is truly expressive. It’s the empty space between the edges that often carries the loudest message.”

Signature Styling Elements
The sharply-angled D-pillar contains a vermilion signature line to further define the cab-forward profile. Where other Infiniti SUVs have a long hood and a cab-rearward profile, the QX Inspiration is doing the opposite. To prove this point, the concept has shorter front and rear overhangs along with a shorter hood since there’s no need to house a burly gasoline motor.
“Where a V8 engine might move the interior rearward, electrification has allowed us to the move the interior forward and provides for a balanced profile,” Albaisa said.
The Infiniti QX Inspiration Concept rides on a 112.2-inch wheelbase and is about 64 inches in height. Overall length is 183.2 inches. It has the same exterior dimensions as the Mercedes-Benz GLC and BMW X3. In fact, the proportions are pretty similar to the Infiniti QX50 as well.
In the rear, the QX Inspiration literally shines. There’s a thin light bar that stretches across the tailgate. In addition, there’s an illuminated Infiniti script below the light bar to further add class and refinement. Everything looks crisp and neatly organized, with none of the cartoonist flare common to Japanese concept cars. Lastly, the QX Inspiration sits on louver-inspired 22-inch alloy wheels to complete the look.
The design team was inspired by the Japanese spatial concept of Ma – or the mastery of empty space. Photo: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.
Hospitable Interior: When Empty Spaces Talk
The Japanese are known for their bountiful hospitality, and the same can be said for the omotenashi-inspired interior of the Infiniti QX Inspiration. Thus, the hand-crafted interior is peppered with unique touches, including a Bianco Carrara marble center console, pillar-to-pillar widescreen display, soft ambient lighting, and sofa-like rear seats. The roof panel is even finished in full-grain Japanese red cedar wood.
In fact, there’s so much going on with the interior that it’s hard to keep count.
“We have taken advantage of the EV architecture to develop a lounge-like interior, enabled by the flat floor and the empty space below the dashboard and center console. So really, we’re not just designing the objects inside the car, we’re designing the empty space between objects,” Habib said. “We’re trying to use that space to accentuate the design – you let the empty space talk as much, if not even more, than the forms and objects that are there.”
“Imagine someone clapping. The empty sound between claps is full of anticipation,” Albaisa added. “In this way, the electrification of Infiniti will bring a new simplicity and excitement to the brand.”
What really stands out are the rear coach doors with complimentary, carpet-style entrance lighting. If both features end up in production, it will surely make the Infiniti QX Inspiration stand out from the Tesla Model X and Audi e-tron SUV. Photo: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.
Putting It All Together
Infiniti is keen on joining the electric SUV bandwagon with the QX Inspiration Concept. From the looks of it alone, they have a winner here.
“QX Inspiration is the beginning of a new era for Infiniti, and an illustration of where we want to go with the brand,” Habib said. “New technology has given us the opportunity to evolve our design philosophy – and this new vehicle communicates the serene strength at our core.”
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.
Infiniti QX Inspiration Gallery

Photos & Source: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.

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Enter to Win a 2020 Chevy Corvette Stingray Z51 & $20,000!

Enter to Win a 2020 Chevy Corvette Stingray Z51 & $20,000! The 2020 Chevy Corvette Stingray is the first mid-engine Vette in history. We were able to see it in person right before COVID-19 hit and were duly impressed. Suffice it to say, after all of the hype and rumors, the mid-engine Corvette was worth the wait.

Now Omaze is giving you a chance to win a 2020 Corvette Stingray Z51 (and $20,000 cash!) by entering their latest campaign to benefit the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.

Affiliate Disclosure: Automoblog and its partners may be compensated when you participate in this campaign.

About The 2020 Corvette Stingray

The mid-engine Stingray hits 60 mph in under three seconds when equipped with the Z51 Performance Package. Chevy’s next-generation 6.2L Small Block V-8 LT2 engine, often called the “jewel in the center,” produces 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is paired to a TREMEC eight speed dual-clutch transmission.

The mid-engine design provides better weight distribution for the 2020 Corvette to enhance both track and straight-line performance. An electronic limited-slip differential modulates torque between the rear tires to maximize performance. Due to a lower hood placement and a lower position for the steering wheel and instrument panel, drivers have a race-car-like view of the road.

The Corvette Stingray Omaze is giving away is equipped with the Z51 Performance Package. The package includes a performance suspension with manually adjustable threaded spring seats, larger Brembo brake rotors with the Z51 logo on the calipers, and a performance exhaust, among other upgrades.

Chevy C8 Corvette on display at the Portland Auto Show, Thursday, February 20th, 2020. The Northwest Chevy Dealers invited Automoblog to their exhibit at the show. Photo: Tony Borroz for Automoblog.net.How To Enter To Win?

You can enter to win by visiting the official page for this Omaze campaign. By joining this campaign, you are benefiting the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, which actually saved the life of Omaze founder Matt Pohlson. The program you are helping will expand the hospital’s mobile/ambulance ECMO unit, which provides cardiac and respiratory support, allowing the heart and lungs to rest before and during surgery.
Original article: Enter to Win a 2020 Chevy Corvette Stingray Z51 & $20,000!

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2018 Chevy Traverse RS: Not Your Father’s Traverse

2018 Chevy Traverse RS: Not Your Father’s Traverse SUVs are a viable option for many consumers today. In general, SUVs offer enough interior room for the family and solid all-weather capability. Depending on the model, fuel efficiency, engine performance, and exterior styling might be added bonuses. Chevrolet is definitely aiming for all of the above with the 2018 Traverse RS, the latest SUV to emerge from the GM stable.
“The 2018 Traverse offers a full product lineup positioned to effectively compete across the segment,” said Steve Majoros, Chevrolet Marketing Director for Cars and Crossovers.
Standpoints & Styling
What Majoros is saying from a business standpoint makes sense. SUVs are strong sellers and having variety never hurts when it comes to attracting new or retaining existing customers. Majoros says the Traverse lineup is modeled in such a way that buyers are able to find something that suits their needs. And in recent times, that demand has really shifted toward the upper end of the spectrum, where the Traverse RS will live.
“By offering customers more choice with higher-end entries like the RS, which has a more street-inspired look, and top-of-the-line High Country, Chevrolet now offers a comfortable and connected Traverse for every lifestyle,” he explained.
The easiest way to spot the Traverse RS is simply by how it looks. Unique styling elements include a black grille, black window trim, black roof rails, black bowtie emblems, and 20-inch aluminum wheels with a Dark Android finish.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Features & Performance
The 2018 Chevy Traverse RS is ideal for those who need to haul the family around but want a little more excitement while doing so. Yes, there is the practical stuff: it has everything one would expect in an SUV or a crossover, including a host of enhanced safety and connectivity features, heated seats, remote start, and lots of cargo room. To the latter, Chevy says it’s best-in-class at 98.2 cubic feet.
Regarding the excitement factor, Chevy has packed a turbocharged engine under the hood that delivers 257 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque. Chevy says 90 percent of that peak torque is available at only 2,100 rpm, meaning when you hit the gas it goes. A nine-speed automatic transmission is matched with the engine for an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20/26 mpg city/highway.
OnStar 4G LTE and an available built-in Wi-Fi hotspot lead the list of connectivity features while Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Park Assist are among the most useful safety features. Other niceties include tri-zone automatic climate control, power liftgate, and a Bose 10-speaker audio system.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Chevy Traverse RS is available now and starts at $43,095.
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: Chevrolet.

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2019 Range Rover Models Blend Performance With Efficiency

2019 Range Rover Models Blend Performance With Efficiency

Expect to see prototypes of the 2019 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport P400e plug-in hybrid during the Los Angeles Auto Show. The vehicles represent a combination of “sustainable performance” and “effortless capability” according to Jaguar Land Rover. It’s the first time the models have been shown in North America. It’s also the first time those who prefer the flagship Land Rover SUV can opt for a zero-emissions variant.
Power & Performance
The new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport P400e combine a 2.0-liter four-cylinder Ingenium gasoline engine, an electric motor, and a 13.1kWh lithium-ion battery. The Ingenium plant creates 296 horsepower while the electric motor registers 114 horsepower. Combined system output is 398 horsepower and 472 lb-ft. of torque with an electric only range of 31 miles.
The Land Rover Terrain Response 2 system is calibrated to “precisely distribute” maximum torque from the electric motor at zero rpm to all four wheels. Jaguar Land Rover says this provides better control during low speed, off-road maneuvers. All 2018 Range Rover models come with air suspension to raise the vehicle for more aggressive off-road driving.
Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.
Drive Modes
Customers can choose two different modes: Parallel Hybrid, the default mode, combines the gasoline and electric powertrains. To help maximize efficiency, drivers can enact a “SAVE” function to prevent the battery from dropping below a certain level. Predictive Energy Optimization works in tandem with the navigation to increase efficiency. Once a destination is entered, the vehicle utilizes GPS altitude data for the route and combines the gasoline and electric motors accordingly.
The second mode is simply called “Electric Vehicle.” This means the Range Rover is running solely on the electric motor with the battery’s stored energy.
Construction
The new Range Rovers are lighter than their counterparts – 39 percent to be exact. Both the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport P400e utilize an all-aluminum body which accounts for the weight loss when compared to a steel equivalent. Jaguar Land Rover notes the “extensive optimization processes” for the vehicle’s architecture, saying the processes were some of the most ambitious in the company’s history. The development of the all-aluminum body required intense computer simulation and a 1,000 years of processor time.
Multi-dimensional optimization tools were also used to minimize weight while simultaneously delivering outstanding stiffness and refinement, according to Jaguar Land Rover. Aerodynamic advancements are seen specifically with the flush glazing, the D-pillar’s sharp separation, and rear lights. This combination helps create a drag coefficient of 0.34.
Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.

Configuration & Charging
The 2.0-liter Ingenium gasoline engine is longitudinally mounted, with the 85kW electric motor housed inside the ZF eight-speed automatic. The transmission resides at the vehicle’s center with the 7kW on-board charger. The inverter, also near the center of the vehicle, turns DC voltage from the battery pack into AC current to supply the electric motor.
The prismatic cell lithium-ion battery is rear-mounted and beneath the trunk floor. The access area for the charge point is behind a panel on the grille. The P400e is available with three types of cables – it includes a home charging lead, which connects to domestic power supplies. When rapid charging, a full charge takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes at home using a dedicated 32 amp wall box. The battery can be fully charged in about 7 hours and 30 minutes using the 10 amp home charging cable supplied as standard.
Manufacturing & Availability
This probably goes without saying, but the 2019 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport P400e plug-in hybrid will offer a lot for drivers. In addition to what we have discussed here, there is a state-of-the-art four-wheel drive system, a host of available advanced driver assistance features, and Executive Seating, which means wider seat frames and additional foam for more comfort.
Both vehicles are designed and engineered by Jaguar Land Rover in the United Kingdom, with production at the company’s Solihull facility. The 2019 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport P400e plug-in hybrid are available now for order; the first deliveries are expected from the end of 2017, depending on the market. Since it launched in 2004, more than 732,000 Range Rover Sports have been sold.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Jaguar Land Rover.

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The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 Can Change Your Mood. Literally.

The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 Can Change Your Mood. Literally.

Mercedes-Benz rolled out their latest CLS at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show. It has more of everything: tech, safety, performance, comfort, the whole lot. But wait, what’s this? This is very out of the ordinary! It is being propelled by a inline six cylinder? Wow, haven’t seen a new one of those in a long while. I wonder what’s in store, besides lots of torque?
The Mercedes-Benz CLS, which is one of those “coupe” things that has four doors (I see what you’re trying to pull here), has been around since 2003. So whatever bugs were there from the get-go, Merc has probably crunched them by now.
Six Shooter
The real interesting part is that straight six. In broad strokes, the new plant gets something called EQ Boost and a 48 volt on-board electrical system. EQ Boost is a new, “systematically electrified” system that piggybacks onto the conventional aspects of the engine. EQ Boost integrates the starter, which is now a starter/generator hybrid unit, with the 48 volt on-board electrical system to add power as the CLS’s umpteen computers see fit. EQ Boost is available on both the CLS450 and CLS450 4MATIC. The plant puts out 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. of torque on its own, and if it calls for the EQ Boost, that will kick in an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque over short periods. Not bad, not bad.
So EQ Boost is sort of like a half-hybrid set up. Mercedes-Benz does not mention other batteries or separate battery packs, but does note the EQ Boost can assist, for example, when accelerating. They even say it makes driving without the combustion engine possible. For some reason, Merc calls this EV-only thing “sailing,” which speaks to me of serious schnapsleiche in the marketing department.
Other than the EQ Boost equipped inline six, the CLS presents new goodies like a consistent interior color scheme, widescreen digital instrument cluster, and some outstandingly goofy junk called ENERGIZING Comfort (all caps – more schnapsleiche in the marketing department). The latter focuses on wellness (no, really).
The new CLS has a four-link front and five-link rear suspension. An air suspension system with adjustable and adaptive damping is optional. Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
Interior Treatments
When it comes to the interior, Mercedes-Benz really seems geeked out on colors. The ambient lighting lets you choose from 64 (!) colors and even features lighting inside the air vents. Yes air vents. Why? Because that way, when you change the temperature setting of the air conditioning, it briefly changes the color of the air vent lights to show the temperature is being made warmer (red) or cooler (blue). How did we ever get along without this?! The CLS450 is equipped with a wide-screen, high-resolution central display that is more than 12-inches diagonally. If that’s not enough, two more 12.3-inch displays are available. There are three display configuration styles the driver can choose from, depending on preference, mood, or to suit the interior appointments: Classic, Sport, or Progressive. So what.
“The new CLS is a design icon as the archetype of the four-door coupe,” said Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer, Daimler AG. “In line with our hot and cool design philosophy, we have reduced its DNA to an extremely puristic level while emotionally charging its beauty.” Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
Energy Efficient
The ENERGIZING Comfort system is there to link various “comfort systems” in the vehicle into one, harmonious package. The system uses the functions of the climate control, including fragrancing (and yes, Mercedes-Benz made up the word fragrancing), the seats (heat, ventilation, massage), the surface and steering wheel heating, as well as lighting and musical atmospheres. This allows, and I’m not kidding, a “specific wellness set-up tailored to the mood and need of the customer.”
Thankfully there are no pink bunnies involved.
Six ENERGIZING programs can be selected: Refresh / Freshness, Warmth, Vitality, Joy, Comfort / Well-Being, and Training with three training modes – muscle relaxation, muscle activation, and balance – each with several exercises. Rumors have it that Mercedes-Benz is working on more ENERGIZING programs including Swedish Heavy Metal, Talk Radio Anger Bear, Haight-Ashbury, and Dryer Lint. Mercedes-Benz says well-being and performance levels are enhanced. I’m not sure about that, but I can tell you my laughing was seriously enhanced reading about it. Was I right when I said outstandingly goofy junk or what?
Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
All Is Well
The new CLS is equipped with the latest generation of driving assistance systems, including route-based speed adaptation and driver support. Also included are Active Brake Assist, and the occupant protection system PRE-SAFE, including PRE-SAFE Sound which “prepares human hearing for the anticipated accident noise when there is a risk of a collision.” I’m assuming that PRE-SAFE Sound is a recording of a matronly lady quietly repeating, “Es ist in Ordnung mein Kleiner. Bald wird es einen Anschlag geben, aber du wirst in Sicherheit sein. Alles ist gut. Alles ist gut.”
Also thrown into the mix is Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist. In other words, you get more assistance than a military contractor come tax time.
Availability
Look, there is a ton of other stuff here. The Mercedes-Benz press release runs on for nearly three-thousand words and reads like a Neichze-ian screed about the coming uber-auto. Through all of this, one thing is extremely clear: The third generation Mercedes-Benz CLS is an exceedingly well thought out, well engineered, and well screwed together car. Following its debut at the LA Auto Show, the new CLS will arrive in the United States in the fall of 2018.
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.
2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS450 Gallery

Photos & Source: Mercedes-Benz USA.

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2018 Nissan Kicks Makes A Punch In Los Angeles

2018 Nissan Kicks Makes A Punch In Los Angeles

Get your kicks on Route 66! And Nissan has chosen California – the Los Angeles Auto Show to be exact – to reveal the 2018 Kicks, the brand’s newest compact crossover. Nissan’s sales in this segment are at an all-time high and the automaker hopes the Kicks will generate additional growth.
“As the gateway to Nissan’s adventure-ready sport-utility portfolio – joining Rogue Sport, Rogue, Murano, Pathfinder, and Armada – Kicks is designed to fit the needs of singles or couples looking for expressive styling, personal technology, smart functionality, and advanced safety features at an affordable price starting well under $19,000,” explained Dan Mohnke, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing and Operations, Nissan Division U.S., Nissan North America, Inc.
Design Language
We’ve come to expect the V-Motion grille, a signature found on every Nissan today. The 2018 Kicks also features unique wheel arches, boomerang headlights and taillights, and a “floating” roof for a “wrap-around visor” look. There are seven different exterior colors and five two-tone schemes on offer, three of which utilize a black roof and contrasting body colors (white, orange, or red). An orange roof with a gray body, or a white roof with a blue body can also be had.
Interior Treatments
Nissan notes the “Gliding Wing” design of the dashboard, anchored by a seven-inch color display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Those who enjoy tunes while they navigate will appreciate the Bose premium stereo with UltraNearfield neodymium speakers, located inside the driver’s headrest.
Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Power & Performance
The 2018 Nissan Kicks has a little kick to it, with a standard 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder. Complete with a Continuous Variable Valve Timing Control System, the engine generates 125 horsepower and 115 lb-ft. of torque. With an Xtronic transmission, the front-wheel drive Kicks is expected to achieve a fuel economy rating of 33 mpg combined.
“With good ground clearance, a high eye point, electric power steering, and small turning radius, Kicks is a great companion to navigate the city with,” Mohnke added.
Pricing & Availability

The 2018 Nissan Kicks will be offered in three grades: S, SV, and SR. All-wheel drive is not available. We would enjoy seeing a Midnight Edition variant for this little cruiser – those special trim packages have proven popular with Nissan customers. Expect to see the Kicks on sale in the new year.
“Pricing for the 2018 Nissan Kicks will be announced closer to its on-sale date in spring 2018, but we are expecting to be among the most competitive in the segment,” Mohnke said.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
2018 Nissan Kicks Gallery

Photos & Source: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

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The New Mazda6 And The Automaker’s Path To Premium

The New Mazda6 And The Automaker’s Path To Premium

That redone Mazda6 that everyone seemed to be oo-ing and ah-ing over? More details are out now, and along with them, is Mazda’s announcement that the 6 will be the Hiroshima’s company’s spearhead in what it calls “Path to Premium.” Yeah, I know. That sounds like a mistranslation, but it’s not. That’s how Mazda says it, and that, much like the Mazda6’s tilt at being a gorgeous, performance sedan, is yet another example of Mazda taking its own unique go at pushing barriers and being memorable.
Path to Premium. Not The Path to Premium, just Path to Premium. That tells you a lot about where Mazda is heading with the Mazda6. They want it to be seen as many things to many people (with approved credit): Powerful, beautiful, performance oriented, reliable, and now premium. What premium means to Mazda is that this car will offer many first-class details and options usually found on other cars from other countries (cough the Germans cough).
Market Strategy
Why head in this direction has an interesting origin for Mazda. It all started with, of all things, the 2016 Mazda CX-9 three-row crossover. Mazda noticed that when it came to CX-9 sales, roughly 55 percent of them sold in the United States have been either high-level Grand Touring models, or top-trim Signature models. These trim levels have been very well received, selling much better than expected. And Mazda’s not stupid. When you see a pile of money sitting on the ground, you pick it up. So, figures Mazda, if that’s what buyers want in our SUVs and crossovers, let’s give it to them in our big-ish sedan too!
So, the 6’s chassis has been thoroughly revised for a more supple ride, greater agility, and dramatically improved NVH (that’s noise, vibration and harshness, in case you didn’t know). The sedan also gets brown Nappa leather and UltraSuede NU that is adorned with a gold tint similar to that used to make ornate kimonos. Sen wood accents are found across the interior of the Mazda6 too, a type of wood used for Japanese furniture and taiko drums.
Photo: Mazda North American Operations.

Power & Performance
And, even more importantly from my perspective, the latest Mazda6 gets a whomper of an engine that really makes this thing move down the road. The SKYACTIV-G 2.5T turbo engine is renowned for its nearly instantaneous, ample torque, thanks to its Dynamic Pressure Turbo. This accelerates exhaust gasses through a tiny inlet so the turbocharger quickly spools up at low RPM before opening a larger, secondary passage. It’s sort of like an old two-stage carb, only much more efficient.
Interior Treatments
The front seats have been fully redesigned and are wider, with high-density, vibration-absorbing urethane foam for a firm, supportive surface. Yet they are supple enough for long trips. The seats are further designed to help keep our spines in the natural S-shape we use while standing. There are optional ventilated front seats in the Mazda6 that wick away warm air from your back to keep you cool. Rear seats have also been redesigned with the same high-density urethane foam for greater comfort.
And since this is “Path to Premium” we’re talking about here, the interior is very restrained, yet fancy and comfortable, and dripping with tech features. Think of it as a conference room on wheels and you get the idea.
Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
Technology Central
There’s one of those fun-house-mirror-esque 360 degree cameras so you can see what’s going on around you when you’re parking or backing out of a space. That picture is displayed on a reconfigurable seven-inch TFT display, or if you prefer, on a new eight-inch infotainment screen with sharper contrast. Full-speed Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, a windshield wiper de-icer, and a heads-up unit that shoots visual info onto the windshield, just like a modern jet fighter, are all available.
Mazda says these latest upgrades will launch the Mazda6 above the mainstream sedan fray, changing the idea of what an affordable car can and should be. And that is all nice marketing-speak for “hey, you’ll think you’re in an expensive, high performance Euro-sedan, but you’re actually driving a much more affordable Mazda.” Okay. fair enough.
This all seems a reasonable thing and it should work, but that will be up to the paying customer. The road that has lead us to the current state of automotive technological greatness is littered with perfectly good ideas that no one paid attention to or bought. Here’s hoping the Mazda6 is not one of them. Expect to see it on sale this spring.
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.
Redesigned Mazda6 Gallery

Photos & Source: Mazda North American Operations.

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