Automotive

2020 Porsche 911: An Engineering Marvel Considering . . .

2020 Porsche 911: An Engineering Marvel Considering . . . The 2020 Porsche 911 represents the 8th generation of the automaker’s iconic nameplate.
It’s wider and more aggressive looking with a new version of Porsche’s flat-six engine.
Expect a multitude of driver assist systems when the new 911 hits the market next year.
The 2020 Porsche 911 just rolled out at the L.A. auto show, and it further cements, and further dilutes what the quintessential Porsche is. It’s bigger, heavier, more complex; it cranks out more power and gives you more performance. That Porsche can keep doing this, despite ever rising levels of weight and complexity, is an engineering miracle.
However, that they have to do it this way is a disaster.
Simple & Effective
The 911 started out as a brilliant response to a simple question: “How can we make the 356 better?” The 356, for all its fun and capability was, at it’s heart, a hot-rodded VW Beetle in better clothing. The first 911, for all its flaws (they had to weld pig iron to the front bumpers, the chassis tuning was so far off) answered that question in so comprehensive a manner that the 911 “worked” for decades.
Then, right about 1998, Porsche realized you can only push air and oil cooling so far, and the 911 changed. Then changed some more. And it changed even more from there.
Related: Enthusiasts will appreciate this book, which chronicles the history of Porsche.
Which leads us to this, the 2020 Porsche 911; bigger, longer, wider, heavier, bloated and, thanks to the dedicated application of Engineering, the “best” 911 ever. The 2020 911 is loaded with everything the modern “sports” car shopper demands (and Porsche shamelessly kowtows to). And yet, it still delivers sparkling performance.
What do we get for 2020 (besides that smug satisfaction)? Lots of everything!
2020 Porsche 911. Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Styling & Design: Some History, Some Necessity
The new body design is bigger all around, with wider fenders over staggered wheels (20-inch at the front and 21-inch at the back). The flared fenders of the sportier 911s are now seen on all models. New LED headlights flow into the fenders and aim for that round shape of the original 911. The door handles are now flush and the outside mirrors are meant to reduce wind noise.
The rear has that same “light bar” as found across the Porsche range.
Of course, there’s a big honking spoiler that’s appreciably wider with variable positions. Best of all, apart from the front and rear fasciae, the entire outer skin of the car is now made of aluminum. A nice, classic touch but also an engineering necessity because 911s are getting fat.
Related: The 2019 Porsche 911 GT3 RS sounds like something NASA would build.
Interior Treatments: The Wild West
The interior has undergone a thorough redesign, but still manages to be an ergonomic nightmare. I can only chalk this up to “tradition” and the fact that Porsche people actually like when button placement and such comes across as a total afterthought. The tach is still front and center (thank you) but now we have the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system front and center in the middle console.
The seats are a complete redesign, with significantly improved lateral support at the shoulder.
However, Porsche really trumpets the new assistance systems, said to increase safety and comfort.
2020 Porsche 911 interior layout. Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Assistance Systems: Tech Nannies & Babysitters
Those of us that are cynical enough to say it will mention that, yeah, you’re going to need all the “assistance systems” you can find to overcome the physics of having all that weight waaaay back there. Porsche now how the “Wet Mode” as standard equipment for the 2020 Porsche 911. Wet Mode detects water on the road, preconditions the stability control and anti-lock brake systems accordingly, and warns the driver.
You can call up vehicle settings particularly suited for wet roads via a button, or by means of the mode switch on the steering wheel. You know, so that way you don’t spin your brand new 911 off into the weeds like overconfident 911 owners since time immemorial.
There’s also a camera-based warning and brake assist system, standard, and Night Vision Assist with a thermal imaging camera. The Adaptive Cruise Control comes with automatic distance control, stop-and-go functionality, and an Emergency Assist function.
Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Power & Performance: No Worries Here
Yes, yes, I hear you shriek: what about the engine? Here, we have no worries or concerns. The next gen turbocharged flat-six engine has a primary focus on performance. New, larger turbochargers with electrically-controlled wastegate valves, a completely redesigned charge air intercooler, and piezo fuel injectors all help this 911 engine be the best engine it can be.
Everything is better with the 2020 Porsche 911: responsiveness, power, torque characteristics, the whole enchilada. Bottom line: 443 horsepower at 6,500 rpm (23 horsepower more than the previous model), 390 lb-ft. of torque (22 lb-ft. up from the previous model), and a comfortably-wide powerband from 2,300 to 5,000 rpm.
Meaning you should be able to work this thing all day and night.
Pricing & Availability
The 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera S starts at $113,200, which is not unreasonable. You can order yours now but the new 911 should be in U.S. dealers by this summer.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
2020 Porsche 911 Gallery

Photos & Source: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.

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Kia Offers Performance-Oriented Test Drives For SEMA Attendees

Kia Offers Performance-Oriented Test Drives For SEMA Attendees

Kia jumped into SEMA this year in a big way by offering attendees a chance to experience the new Stinger GT. The sportback, due next month, was tested extensively on the Nürburgring circuit. Kia’s performance car offers a rigid, stiff chassis, an advanced 8-speed automatic, and a number of aerodynamic advancements to reduce wake turbulence and move air over the vehicle. With the available 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 Lambda II engine, the Stinger arrives with more power than the Audi S5 Sportback, BMW 440i Gran Coupe, and Infiniti Q50.
Meaningful Experiences
While at SEMA this year, attendees can actually feel the Stinger’s capabilities as professional Formula Drift drivers take them through a unique autocross course outside the Las Vegas Convention Center. The drivers will be doing drift and other handling demonstrations in the new Stinger as attendees ride along. Following that, attendees can take the wheel of the Stinger GT to experience the autocross course firsthand, as well as a 0 to 60 launch. Such demonstrations are always a lot of fun – we enjoy them when we get the chance ourselves – and for Kia, this year’s SEMA show is particularly meaningful.
“We are so thrilled to show off what Kia has become at SEMA because 2017 is a momentous year for our Kia brand,” explained Justin Sohn, President and CEO of Kia Motors America. “We ranked number one in quality for the second year in a row in JD Power’s Initial Quality Study, we are top three in Consumer Reports reliability, and we are now introducing the all-new, 2018 four-door Stinger Sports Fastback, Kia’s fastest ever and our first performance vehicle.”
Stinger GT Wide Body. Photo: Kia Motors America.
Stinger GT Wide Body
In addition to the drive demonstrations, Kia is displaying three different vehicles at SEMA. The first is the Stinger GT Wide Body, inspired by ’70s era GT cars. Kia teamed with West Coast Customs for this beautiful pearl blue rig which includes a lowered suspension, 21-inch Keen forged wheels, and quad-port exhaust tips. Inside, the Stinger GT Wide Body features custom blue leather seat piping, a distinct hand-stitched gray leather dash panel, and an alcantara-wrapped steering wheel.
Stinger GT Federation
The second of three vehicles is another take on the Stinger, billed as the GT Federation. This Stinger variant features a number of aftermarket performance parts and accessories, and signals Kia’s intent on making such parts available. The exterior accent kits by Air Design USA include a rear spoiler, rear diffuser, and redesigned hood vents. A K&N cold-air intake and a low-restriction, quad-tipped Borla exhaust are also characteristic of this Stinger variant. These accessories add another 15 horsepower to the V6 Lambda II engine.
Stinger GT Federation. Photo: Kia Motors America.

Cadenza Obsidian
Last but certainly not least: a special Kia Cadenza Obsidian with a lowered suspension, stiffer springs, and custom 20-inch gloss-black Keen wheels. Attendees will notice the Cosmic Copper trim, black metallic paint, and ultra-dark ceramic window tint. Inside, the Cadenza Obsidian has a hand-stitched suede dashboard top panel, butter-soft brown leather seats with suede inserts, and brown suede door panels. Kia also worked with West Coast Customs for this Cadenza variant.
SEMA Information
The SEMA Show runs until November 3rd at the Las Vegas Convention Center, 3150 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, Nevada. Registration begins at 7:30am with the exhibits and New Products Showcase going until 5 and 6pm, respectively. More information regarding hours, floor plans, and special events can be found on the SEMA Show’s website.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Stinger GT Wide Body Gallery

Stinger GT Federation Gallery

Cadenza Obsidian Gallery

Photos & Source: Kia Motors America.

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Letter From The UK: A Car of Our Own

Letter From The UK: A Car of Our Own

“This is Meg. Meg is our car.” This statement appeared on a Twitter feed near to me, accompanied by a photograph of a five-year-old Ford Focus. Meg is very clean and takes pride of place in their driveway. Meg, it is clear, is as much a part of the family as the dog or a difficult child. To be fair to Meg and her family, I personally have a bit of an issue with assigning gender and human attributes to machinery. My late Mother-in-Law (who was, against type, a very nice woman) insisted on calling her car “Lulu” on the basis that the licence plate kind of looked a bit like that.
Crushes & Complexities
There’s nothing new about this: Hark back to earlier days to hear British car enthusiasts – usually men wearing cravats – referring to their classic car as “her” or even “the old girl,” a sobriquet otherwise used solely as a replacement for “the wife.” Fortunately, this practice has been driven out of use by the complex assignment of gender these days. My own car, which I bought new for cash, is going on six-years-old (note that I refuse to use the word “birthday”). At best, it gets called “the Citroen,” otherwise it is “the car.” I have no plans to change it because it does all that I require and does it well, not because I love it like a brother.
It seems to me that we use the internet as an alternative universe. We can do and say things that would make us look silly out in the “real world” where we actually reside. Thus, in a way, the real world becomes another universe of itself and not just the place that we live in. It’s strange how we exist in this parallel way.
These days, and we got this idea from the USA by the way, we use our special internet universe to possess new cars we are unlikely ever to call our own. We do this by means of the Personal Contract Purchase or PCP. It seems like a neat idea but, as some people are finding out, it isn’t always as clear cut as it seems. Lose your job through no fault of your own and see what happens. You may have been there already.
A vintage E-Type might qualify for the title of “old girl” or any other equivalent label. Earlier this year, Jaguar Classic debuted its first “Reborn” Jaguar E-Type at the Techno-Classica Essen show. Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.
Downward Spiral
Looking at all the new or nearly new vehicles on Britain’s roads today, you would think we are a robust and economically sound nation. Indeed, the figures show the UK has seen modest economic growth this year, but as far as the motor industry is concerned, appearances can be deceptive. Sales are slowing. The car market has been over-trading lately, riding on the wave of financial innovations like PCP.
In fact, UK car manufacturing fell in September, with year-on-year output declining minus 4.1 percent, according to recent statistics by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. 6,500 fewer cars rolled off production lines than in the same month of 2016, in line with slower growth across European Union markets, but it was substantial double-digit losses here in our internal market which has driven the overall decline. Domestic demand in the month dropped, contributing to an overall year-to-date production decrease of minus 2.2 percent. This rather indicates the PCP market skews the outlook.

Warning Signs
Here I quote the UK’s Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders head honcho, Mike Hawes, verbatim:
“With UK car manufacturing falling for a fifth month this year, it’s clear that declining consumer and business confidence is affecting domestic demand and hence production volumes. Uncertainty regarding the national air quality plans also didn’t help the domestic market for diesel cars, despite the fact that these new vehicles will face no extra charges or restrictions across the UK. Brexit is the greatest challenge of our time and yet we still don’t have any clarity on what our future relationship with our biggest trading partner will look like, nor detail of the transitional deal being sought. Leaving the EU with no deal would be the worst outcome for our sector so we urge government to deliver on its commitments and safeguard the competitiveness of the industry.”
Right now at least, “No Deal” seems the likeliest outcome. We’ll see.
Vauxhall’s Luton Plant manufactures the Vivaro, a multi-use commercial van. According to Vauxhall, the Luton Plant produced 60,820 Vivaros in 2015. Currently, the plant employs about 1,200 people. Photo: Vauxhall.

A Car of Our Own
So this in turn suggests the PCP bubble could burst. The deals are getting, on the face of it, better, and ways of shifting cars from the showroom more inventive. Can it last? The car market is a transient thing and very much governed by the disposable income of the population, and the prospects for a secure job environment are looking increasingly shaky.
Are we reaching the stage where nobody will ever have a car like Meg to call their own? Or are we going to go the other way and keep the cars we really do own for longer? That’s my plan. “The Citroen” stays with me until one of us breaks down. Meanwhile, I am resisting the temptation of being over-familiar and calling it “Claudette.” The family prefers the more alliterative Maxine. “This is Maxine. We own Maxine outright.”
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite

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2021 Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition Sets Record On The Suzuka Circuit

2021 Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition Sets Record On The Suzuka Circuit The 2021 Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition recently set a new speed record of 2 minutes and 23.993 seconds at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan. The Suzuka Circuit is known as a favorite of both fans and drivers worldwide for its 3.6-mile, figure-8 configuration.

The Type R Limited Edition, driven by Takuya Izawa, set its record-breaking lap during its final performance evaluations in February. The vehicle was a development car with no modifications or performance enhancements and built to final European production specifications.

“The Type R Limited Edition reflects Honda’s dedication to refining the essence and driving pleasure of Type R as a sports car and exceeding the expectations of our customers,” said Civic Type R Project Leader Hideki Kakinuma. “The engineering team and I embraced a racing spirit that has been passed down for generations, and it’s this strong passion that’s driving the evolution of the Civic Type R towards becoming the ideal sports car.”

2021 Honda Civic Type R: Built For Speed

Although it is built for the track, the 2021 Type R Limited Edition is the ultimate street-legal Honda car for the U.S. market. Under the hood is the track-proven 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo. The engine, mated to a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential, delivers 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque to the front wheels.

A dual-axis strut suspension helps reduce torque steer and maximum handling, according to Honda. All Type R Limited Editions for the U.S. market include new steering calibrations, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, and BBS aluminum wheels for an 18 lbs. unsprung weight reduction.

“Now the ‘advanced’ Type R that I envisioned at the beginning of this development is a reality,” Kakinuma added. “And I am overwhelmed by the result and how our efforts have been rewarded.”

2021 Honda Civic Type R: Exterior Design

The Type R Limited Edition comes with a Phoenix Yellow Pearl paint job combined with gloss black accents on the roof, mirrors, and a dark chrome Civic badge. In addition to its unique touches, the Type R Limited Edition includes a larger grille and new radiator design to enhance engine cooling.

Related: An inside look at the 2021 Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition.2021 Honda Civic Type R: Interior Treatments

The U.S. manufactured Type R Limited Edition will feature air conditioning, an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, the Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety features, and the Display Audio system over its European counterparts. For collectors, all Type R Limited Edition cars will contain an interior plate with an individual serial number and the original country of sale.

Pricing & Availability

The sticker price for the 2021 Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition has not yet been released. Honda fans may want to get in line now as only 600 units are expected for the U.S. later this year.

Born and raised in the Motor City by an autoworker’s family, Michael Turashoff has a love of cars woven into his DNA. Michael is a professional content creator, marketing expert, and successful entrepreneur with over a decade of experience.

Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition Gallery

Photos & Source: Honda North America.
Original article: 2021 Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition Sets Record On The Suzuka Circuit

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A Roundup of the 2018 North American International Auto Show

A Roundup of the 2018 North American International Auto Show
The 2018 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) is entering its final weekend in Detroit, Michigan. As always, it was full of big reveals, new technology, and outrageous concept vehicles. After following the extensive coverage of the show and digging into the biggest news, here are several of my takeaways and predictions for the year ahead.
Doubling Down On Trucks
In previous years, the flagship models of the Big Three (GM, Ford, and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) have been members of the luxury car category. This year, the major truck reveals from these companies might indicate a plan to consider trucks the new domestic flagships for these brands.
The new Ford Ranger, returning for the first time since 2011, signifies Ford’s re-entry into the mid-size pickup market. It will come standard with automatic forward braking and a backup camera.
The 2019 redesigned Chevrolet Silverado includes wireless charging capabilities. The truck uses various weight-saving technologies to drop 450 lbs.
The new fifth-generation Ram 1500 is roomier and can be equipped with a 12-inch screen for its infotainment system.
The new models are in line with a recent trend toward more tricked out trucks, with all the latest tech bells and whistles. As we begin 2018, we can expect to see truck ownership be just as much about comfort and style as it is about power and functionality.
2019 Chevy Silverado High Country on display at NAIAS, Cobo Center, Detroit, Michigan. Photo: Gino D’Orazio for Automoblog.net.
Less Focus On Autonomous Driving
Self-driving vehicles have been somewhat of an elephant in the room at auto shows in recent years. With NAIAS coming right on the heels of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, where autonomous vehicle technology was a main focus, many industry experts were anxious to see what the big automotive companies had to say on the subject.
Despite the continued buzz around autonomous driving, many executives at NAIAS did not have much to say about it. Aside from GM’s reveal of a no-steering-wheel, no-pedals concept vehicle just before the show, there wasn’t much talk of self-driving cars. Many industry executives are adamant that much of the discussion on this subject is still conjecture, and they would rather spend time focusing on the development of conventional vehicles. In many ways, the show this year seemed to provide a refreshing break from all this speculation, and a return to vehicles as we have always known them.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan (middle) and Cobo Center General Manager Claude Molinari (right) meet with the workers responsible for setting up for NAIAS. Photo: NAIAS.
The Push For User-Friendly Infotainment
In 2018, passengers and drivers want to be connected on-the-go and new models at this year’s show revealed that more brands are ready to meet this demand. The broad category of “infotainment” systems has been growing in recent years. Lately, it seems to refer to any way to seamlessly connect a smartphone’s features to the vehicle. This includes music, maps, photos, and communication capabilities. As I mentioned before, the new Ram 1500 is adding a large screen to make these functions possible. BMW and Volkswagen are also among the brands making big moves in the infotainment direction.
However, some automakers seem to be running into a problem. With the speed at which smartphone technology changes these days, how can the car technology that integrates with our phones keep up? If the infotainment technology cannot upgrade with the phone it connects to, it can lead to a negative user experience. To combat this challenge, we can expect to see major automakers partner with tech companies. Several are already taking a head start on this front. For example, Ford and Nissan offer Amazon’s Alexa in some models and, in addition to BMW and Volkswagen, Toyota and Lexus are expected to add Alexa and Google Assistant capabilities to their vehicles.
2019 Ram 1500 – Uconnect 4C with 12-inch screen. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Big Reveals
For enthusiasts, the biggest part of NAIAS has always been about the highly-anticipated new models. For the most part, 2018 did not disappoint on this front. Among the big releases we had:
The 2019 Mercedes Benz G-Class received a modern upgrade while still keeping true to its iconic original design from 1979. Many are referring to the new G-Class as a “factory-produced” resto-mod.
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee debuted with changes to the face of the vehicle and has an option for a new turbocharged engine.
The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta, the latest version of VW’s most popular U.S. model, boasts better handling with the help of VW’s MBQ modular construction platform. Also included is a rearview camera, forward collision warning system, and Apple Car Play and Android Auto.
The 2019 Forte debuted as a larger version of Kia’s compact offering, with styling similar to the Stinger performance sedan. The biggest change to the new model is its continuously variable transmission, which replaces the six-speed automatic. It’s likely this change will improve the vehicle’s fuel economy.
A modern version of the iconic Ford Mustang Bullitt was on display, originally made popular by Steve McQueen in the 1968 film Bullitt. The new version features a V8 engine, six-speed manual-only transmission, and 12-inch LCD touchscreen – something that was certainly not in McQueen’s version!
The classic Ford Mustang Bullitt rolls out during NAIAS at the Cobo Center. Photo: NAIAS.
No-Shows
Notably absent from this year’s show was any mention of Chevrolet’s mid-engine Corvette, a model which many enthusiasts expected to be revealed in Detroit. Testing for the car has been spotted so the question remains as to when we’ll witness its grand debut. Mazda does not have a display this year at NAIAS and neither does Jaguar Land Rover. Volvo has a smaller setup when compared to years past and Brembo, who was present the last two years, did not have a display this year.
In Person
It will certainly be interesting to see how these trends develop throughout the coming year, and which new models are popular among consumers when they become available. NAIAS runs through Sunday the 28th at the Cobo Center, One Washington Boulevard, downtown Detroit. Ticket information for the public show and corresponding events can be found here; a list of daily activities can be found here; for anything else, the show’s official site is pretty easy to navigate.
Richard Reina is a Product Trainer at CARiD.com and lifelong automotive enthusiast.
Cover Photo: NAIAS.

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Chevy Gets Red Dirt Rich With Luke Bryan Suburban Concept In Vegas

Chevy Gets Red Dirt Rich With Luke Bryan Suburban Concept In Vegas

“I’ll be down here, knee-deep in the Muckalee,” Luke Bryan says in arguably the most notable composition on his 2015 album, Kill the Lights. Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day, often stylized as “H.F.E” by fans, suggests nothing beats the great outdoors, especially when your significant other comes along. H.F.E is a genuine, heartfelt response to phrases like “don’t you want to get out of here” or “there is a lot more opportunity in the city.”
Flint River Pay
On a basic level, it’s a catchy song; as the guitar notes build, it’s a perfect one to pluck away to air-style. On a basic level, the lyrics are merely about a guy that loves the outdoors. Yet, to those invested in rural life, Bryan’s Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day is an anthem; the lyrics are the embodiment of that great, down-home American dream shared among generations; the lyrics remind us that dream, no matter the odds, is worth fighting for.
It’s pulling those old, dusty work gloves off, walking in and seeing a truly beautiful partner making dinner as little ones race across the room at lightning speed yelling “daddy.” It’s bracing for impact as they leap through the air. It’s checking on neighbors, tending to fences, worrying about crops; it’s cheering for that promising high school prospect on Friday night and going before The Lord on Sunday. In the H.F.E life, money isn’t what makes you rich.
“If you live in that hunting, fishing, loving every day mentality, you’re going to be a little more stress-free,” Bryan said. “And your quality of life will be a little better.”
Luke Bryan Suburban Concept. Photo: Chevrolet.
Stripping It Down
Chevrolet’s latest Suburban concept aims to capture the H.F.E lifestyle during this year’s SEMA Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Bryan was on hand to introduce the Suburban, now displayed alongside other Chevy vehicles, crate engines, and performance parts at SEMA. Bryan’s Suburban concept was engineered for outdoor getaways, something the singer regularly does with his family and kids. Chevy designers actually interviewed Bryan to learn what the ultimate outdoor vehicle might look like.
“I’m a longtime Suburban owner,” Bryan commented. “This partnership is a natural fit for me and this unique Suburban represents everything I and my family want for our outdoor adventures.”
“This concept is all about maximizing the Suburban’s space and utility for a family that truly enjoys hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities,” added Todd Parker, Chevrolet Design Director.
Photo: Chevrolet.

Kicking The Dust Up
The Luke Bryan Suburban Concept is powered by GM’s evergreen 5.3 V8 with direct injection, continuously variable valve timing, and active fuel management. The 355 horsepower engine creates 383 lb-ft. of torque, supported by a six-speed automatic transmission and a Chevrolet Performance cold-air intake. The 5.3, a member of the Chevrolet Small Block family for over 60 years, rarely needs an introduction. It’s part of the reason why owners continue to set their watch to Chevy trucks.
“Chevy has been part of our family and a part of our work life on the farm for as long as I can remember,” Bryan explained. “If you were a Bryan, you drove a Chevy.”
The Luke Bryan Suburban Concept includes modified 22-inch wheels, 35-inch tires, a locking rear differential, and six-piston front Brembo brakes. The suspension is lifted and accompanied by a lower skidplate extension. The 8,000 lbs. towing capacity, roof-mounted equipment carrier, fishing rod holder, and swing-out tailgate will nicely accommodate those who journey into the wild.
“There’s plenty of room for all their gear, along with added amenities that make the journey more enjoyable,” Parker said.
Photo: Chevrolet.
SEMA Information
The Luke Bryan Suburban Concept will be on display at Chevrolet’s SEMA exhibit through Friday, November 3rd. The SEMA Show is held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, 3150 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, Nevada. Registration begins at 7:30am with the exhibits and New Products Showcase going until 5 and 6pm, respectively. More information regarding hours, floor plans, and special events can be found on the SEMA Show’s website.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Luke Bryan Suburban Concept Features
Unique lower fascia.
Roof-mounted fishing rod holder.
Swing-out tailgate with spare tire mount.
Roof-mounted light rack by Baja Designs.
Chevrolet Accessories: roof rack cross rails.
Chevrolet Accessories: mesh grille (custom finish).
“Huntin’, Fishin’ and Lovin’ Every Day” exterior badges.
Chevrolet Accessories: black Chevrolet bowtie emblems.
Chevrolet Accessories: Bluetooth Bullfrog music system by KICKER.
Chevrolet Accessories: Thule Canyon roof basket with optional extensions.
Hunter Bronze exterior color with Dark Carbon accents and camo graphics.
Fully trimmed seats with Argon piping and Platinum camo-pattern perforated inserts.
Luke Bryan Suburban Concept Gallery

Photos & Source: Chevrolet.

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Honda Aims To Keep Best-Selling Status With 2018 CR-V

Honda Aims To Keep Best-Selling Status With 2018 CR-V

The 2018 Honda CR-V is here, and it almost goes without saying this thing is to Honda’s SUV lineup what the Accord is to their cars: a license to print money. Honda sells a ton of these guys. I mean by the boatload. The CR-V is America’s best-selling SUV for the past 20 years and with prices ranging from a reasonable $24,150 to the not-even-close-to-exorbitant $34,050, it looks like Honda will keep that title.
The 2018 Honda CR-V gives drivers premium features, with convenient in-vehicle connectivity experiences through Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Pandora.
Power & Performance
The 2018 CR-V returns with the same responsive and fuel efficient 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected and turbocharged inline 4-cylinder that debuted in 2017. With 190 peak horsepower on tap and paired with a creepy, yet logical continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Honda G-Shift control logic, the 1.5-liter, front-drive CR-Vs bring home the highest EPA fuel economy ratings in the compact SUV class. You can also get a bigger 2.4-liter DOHC, direct-injected inline 4-banger, putting out 184 peak horsepower, also paired with a CVT, in the LX trim level.
Honda says the 2018 CR-V is designed to be fun-to-drive, yet quiet and comfortable. Okay, sure, but this thing ain’t a Civic Type R, okay? The chassis is well thought out, however, with a MacPherson strut front suspension, a multi-link rear suspension with a floating subframe, fluid-filled suspension bushings, front and rear stabilizer bars, and dual-pinion, variable-ratio electric power steering. So the new CR-V should make short work of twisty country roads, broken urban streets, and everything in between.
Photo: Honda North America.
Interior Treatments
The inside of the 2018 CR-V is described as spacious, with the best rear seat legroom in its class along with a large, flexible cargo area. 2018 also brings upgraded materials throughout, a soft-touch instrument panel, and intricately stitched seats. Also on offer is the latest in-vehicle connectivity and audio tech, with the available 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio interface. The Android operating system features a physical volume knob as well as an available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System, developed in cooperation with the Garmin GPS people.
Other niceties include remote engine start, dual-zone climate controls, heated side mirrors, a space-saving and convenient Electric Parking Brake, rear USB charging ports, 4-way power adjustments on the front passenger seat, and a driver’s seat with 8-way power adjustments and 4-way power lumbar support. The front seats are heated, of course.
Photo: Honda North America.

Safety & Security
Safety stuff? But of course! This is a Honda, so of course there’s tons of safety tech gee-gaws strewn throughout the CR-V. The 2018 CR-V has Honda Sensing as standard equipment on EX and higher trims. Honda Sensing features Collision Mitigation Braking with Forward Collision Warning and pedestrian sensing capability. Also included is Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with low-speed follow and Lane Keeping Assist.
Seriously dude, if you end up pranging one of these, you should really consider taking buses and taxis for the rest of your life. Seriously.
Here’s a nice little chart that shows you all of the 2018 Honda CR-V’s trim levels, drivetrains, and economy figures along with the prices. The 2018 Honda CR-V is in dealerships now.
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.
TRIM
TRANSMISSION
MSRP
EPA Fuel Economy Ratings(City / Highway/ Combined)
CR-V 2.4 LX (2WD)
CVT
$24,150
26/32/28
CR-V 2.4 LX (AWD)
CVT
$25,550
25/31/27
CR-V 1.5T EX (2WD)
CVT
$26,950
28/34/30
CR-V 1.5T EX (AWD)
CVT
$28,350
27/33/29
CR-V 1.5T EX-L (2WD)
CVT
$29,450
28/34/30
CR-V 1.5T EX-L (AWD)
CVT
$30,850
27/33/29
CR-V 1.5T EX-L with Navi (2WD)
CVT
$30,450
28/34/30
CR-V 1.5T EX-L with Navi (AWD)
CVT
$31,850
27/33/29
CR-V 1.5T Touring (2WD)
CVT
$32,650
28/34/30
CR-V 1.5T Touring (AWD)
CVT
$34,050
27/33/29
2018 Honda CR-V Gallery

Photos & Source: Honda North America.

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Automoblog In-Depth: Terrifying Realities of Halloween

Automoblog In-Depth: Terrifying Realities of Halloween

When I was a kid, my friends and I would canvas our neighborhood year after year on Halloween. We were the most determined bunch of trick-or-treaters our small Iowa community had ever seen. The goal was always more candy. How could we come home with the biggest score yet; like a Hollywood blockbuster about a bank heist, we were strategic as we traveled door-to-door. From our costumes to our walking routes, nothing was random about our moves on Halloween night.
Enjoyable Times
We knew which neighbors would give us an extra Snickers just because; we knew the well-to-do single lady (who we crushed on) would kindly repay us in Butterfingers for mowing her lawn while she was away on business. We knew the elderly couple around the corner – who were adept at keeping us boys fed all year long anyway – would treat us to a batch of scotcheroos neatly wrapped in plastic. Those were the days.
As I have aged, the allure of Halloween is lost on me. I am certain if I had children, that would change, but I’m talking more so about the adult versions of Halloween. Suffice it to say, I am not much of a party guy. I have nothing against Halloween parties per se but I am leery. Whenever so many are gathered and alcohol is involved, it can prove deadly when people go to leave.
“We don’t discourage having get-togethers during Halloween because it’s a fun time not only for children but also for adults,” explained Special First Lieutenant Jim Flegel, Traffic Safety Specialist, Michigan State Police. “What we encourage is designating a sober driver so you don’t get behind the wheel drunk and endanger your life or somebody else’s life.”
Hard Facts
According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, 10,479 people are killed in alcohol related crashes every year, equaling 29 deaths daily and one death every 50 minutes. These incidents often spike on holidays; for example, a Geotab study we reported on over the summer found July 4th is the most dangerous day on U.S. roads. That same study also found holidays like Labor Day, New Year’s Eve, and Halloween carry with them an inherent risk when traveling. However, when compared to other holidays, Halloween is becoming more problematic.
“I have seen that change literally in front of my eyes over the past decade,” explained Doug Scoles, Great Lakes Regional Director, MADD. “We were always concerned about New Year’s Eve, July 4th, St. Patrick’s Day, and even the Super Bowl, but Halloween has become one of the most dangerous times of the year with impaired drivers on the road.”
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data shows fatal crashes involving drunk drivers occur three times more often on Halloween than New Year’s Eve. MADD refers to the aforementioned holidays, like Halloween, as “second-tier holidays” but advises citizens remain cautious anyway.
“They have been coming on strong for the last couple of decades because there is a lot of celebrating around these second-tier holidays now,” Scoles added. “Partying with alcohol on these days is the same core problem we have in virtually all impaired driving cases.”
According to NHTSA, about a quarter of teen car crashes involve underage drinking. 95 percent of the 14 million people who are alcohol dependent began drinking before 21.
Cold Realities
Data from the National Safety Council shows 107 fatalities occurred on October 31st 2016. Further analysis shows 66 were drivers, 17 were occupants, 23 were pedestrians, and one was a cyclist. Sadly, nine of the occupants were 20 or under, and two of the pedestrian fatalities were children between the ages of four and seven. When walking through our neighborhoods with little ones, it’s vital to consider the risk. This is not something we want to think about – the natural order of things is for children to lay their parents to rest, not the other way around. Yet, we are wise to consider the possibility, grim though it may be, and take action accordingly.
“Children are very excited and love going door-to-door getting candy, and they don’t always watch out for cars,” Flegel said. “Always make sure they are visible; have them carry some type of light, or wear some type of bright colored clothing.”
The Michigan State Police recommend parents talk to their children about watching for traffic. Flegel suggests going door-to-door with your children on Halloween to prevent them from inadvertently running into the street. MADD advises parents remain vigilant and understand the chances exist in every neighborhood for a motorist to be operating under the influence. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows adults drink and drive about 121 million times per year, creating more than 300,000 incidents of drinking and driving daily.
“I hate to sound overly cautious, but the last thing we want is a tragedy to happen when it should be a fun time for kids dressing up and getting candy,” Scoles said. “We recommend taking extra precautions to safeguard children and for parents to always be very aware of their surroundings.”
When trick-or-treating with your children, always keep a close eye on them and be aware of your surroundings.

Awareness & Prevention
The real tragedy in the aforementioned statistics is how they represent a person; a person who was loved and cherished by someone else. Each number could just as easily represent a person in our own lives who we care for and love. And it is likely someone reading knows this pain all too well. If you are that person, I cannot imagine the void you must feel. At some point, we are all likely to become a statistic of one kind or another, but each statistic involving an impaired driver was entirely preventable. This only magnifies the tragedy.
“It is not like some disease or act of terrorism where you are blindsided with it and have no choice,” Scoles said. “This is something that we can prevent because the decision to get behind the wheel while under the influence is made deliberately.”
In Michigan where I live, the story is somewhat of a double sided coin. On one hand, the Michigan State Police have actually seen a decrease in drunk driving incidents and the department is optimistic that will continue. On the other side, the news is not as good as drugged driving continues to increase.
“We have done a pretty good job of educating the public about not getting behind the wheel when you’re impaired on alcohol,” Flegel said. “Unfortunately, over this last year, drugged driving has seen a drastic increase, so we want to get the word out to not get behind the wheel when you are impaired on other drugs, which can include prescription medication.”
“Our messaging, public awareness, and programs supporting law enforcement play a big part in taking the impaired driver off the road,” Scoles added. “We are in the fight against drunk and drugged driving to save lives and prevent that tragedy from happening.”
According to the National Retail Federation, nearly 180 million Americans will celebrate Halloween this year, with seven out of ten planning to hand out candy.
Tips & Advice
NHTSA provides these tips for drivers and pedestrians to consider on Halloween night. The CDC has published a list of general safety practices for parents and guardians to follow while trick-or-treating. Below we have some bullet point tips from the Michigan State Police, National Safety Council, and MADD. The safety advice is relevant not only for Halloween night, but overall in our daily lives. We would add only one observation, based on our work in the automotive industry: Cars today have more horsepower and torque than ever before. Even the most mundane family sedans have plenty of zip from their small displacement engines. Under the influence, a car is essentially a 3,500 lbs. missile on wheels, and a quick one at that.
“Nobody wakes up in the morning and says they are going to crash their car today,” Flegel said. “But as a driver, you still have to maintain control of your vehicle at all times.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Safety Tips From The National Safety Council
Enter and exit driveways carefully.
Fasten reflective tape to costumes and candy bags.
Agree on a specific time children should return home.
Teach your children to never enter a stranger’s home or car.
Watch for children walking on roadways, medians, and curbs.
At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing.
Instruct children to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends.
Safety Tips From Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Designate a sober driver.
Use a taxi or ride share service.
Plan ahead if your night includes alcohol.
Buckle up: This is the best defense against an impaired driver.
MADD Victim Services Hotline: 1-877-MADD-HELP (24 hours / 7 days a week).
Safety Tips From The Michigan State Police
Abide by all traffic laws and posted signs.
Pay attention behind the wheel at all times.
Remove all distractions in the car, including cell phones.
Allow for plenty of time when crossing a street or intersection.
Use sidewalks whenever available and never cross the street mid-block.
Cross streets at a corner, using traffic signals and crosswalks whenever possible.
Always stop at the edge of a parked car, curb, or vehicle before walking out into traffic.
Wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight when walking at night or during the early morning.

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2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum AWD Review

2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum AWD Review

The Toyota RAV4 is the top-selling compact SUV in a very competitive segment for a reason. It’s hard to beat when it offers plenty of room inside, has Toyota’s reputation for quality, and comes standard with a boat load of safety features. It also has an option for all-wheel drive, making it an ideal all-weather vehicle.
The Toyota RAV4 continues to beat its closest rivals, the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue, in sales. The RAV4, CR-V, and Rogue are among the top 12 best-selling vehicles in the United States. Other RAV4 rivals include the Ford Escape, Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5, and Hyundai Santa Fe Sport.
So how does it stack up? This week, we drove the new, top trim 2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum AWD.
What’s New For 2017
The Toyota RAV4 gains a host of driver assistance features as standard equipment, including collision mitigation, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. The range-topping Platinum trim level we drove is also new this year.
Features & Options
The 2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum AWD ($36,150) comes standard with SofTex seats, paddle shifters, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, 8-way power driver’s seat, pushbutton start, LED headlamps and tail lamps, a hands-free power-operated lift gate, and a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert.
The Platinum adds an 11-speaker, JBL premium audio system with navigation and an app suite, a 7-inch touchscreen, and driver’s seat memory. Safety features include Forward Collision Warning with automatic braking, Lane Departure Alert, adaptive cruise control, a pedestrian pre-collision system, and automatic high beams. A new, four-camera Bird’s Eye View Monitor gives a 360-degree view of the area surrounding the vehicle.
It came with a number of smaller options too, like Remote Start ($499), Roof Rack Cross Bars ($315), and special color and paint protection ($790). Total MSRP including destination: $39,666.

Interior Highlights
Stepping inside the RAV4 Platinum revealed that new car smell with lots of soft-touch surfaces, including the SofTex synthetic leather. The larger, 7-inch touchscreen was easier to read – something we noticed right away. The RAV4 cabin is well organized, there’s above average interior room for a compact SUV, and good build quality overall. We could tell Toyota used quality materials for this top-trim model. We felt the warmth from the heated seats and steering wheel during the cold Colorado mountain mornings this week.
We chose having a higher, SUV-like view over a car-like position after adjusting the 8-way power seats. The adjustments let us have a more commanding view of the road. The SofTex synthetic leather seats in the Platinum are comfortable and supportive for any longer trips you might take with the family. Our passengers this week complained about the rear seats being flat, a bit hard, and unsupportive for their liking. But these guys would complain no matter what! Thankfully, the seatbacks did recline for them and the rear doors were wide for their big frames as they slid in.
One of the RAV4’s strong points has always been its ability to carry cargo, and the low floor made loading it easy as we slid in some big boxes to transport. The rear seats fold flat for additional cargo space, which is already abundant with 38.4 cubic feet with the seats up, and 73.4 cubic feet with them down.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The RAV4 Platinum is powered by 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, making 176 horsepower and 172 lb-ft. of torque. The plant comes mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with a sport-shift mode that drives all four wheels. The RAV4 with all-wheel drive gets an EPA-estimated 22/28 city/highway and 24 combined mpg using regular unleaded fuel.
This is quite a bit less than a comparably equipped Subaru Forester (26/32 city/highway, 28 combined).
Driving Dynamics
At least in the mountains at altitude, the 2.5-liter engine is not all that quick, and it took longer than we thought to get up to 65 mph, but we are driving at 8,300 feet above sea level too. Those living on the flats likely won’t notice any power shortage. The four-cylinder motor is smooth and refined until we really pushed it hard, then we found ourselves wanting a turbo.
The advantage of the all-wheel drive was evident as we traveled a dirt road this week. The RAV4 splits power between the front and rear axles at the press of a button, at speeds below 25 mph. The wheels gripped the loose gravel and kept us from sliding into the ditch. It’s a must for those living in cold climates with ice and snow.
The ride is smooth for an all-wheel drive vehicle and the suspension is tuned more for comfort than sport. The larger 18-inch wheels look cool, but did make the ride a bit rougher, so 17-inch wheels on the lower trims will have a smoother ride quality. There’s good outward visibility from the driver’s seat even with the raked roof.
Conclusion
The RAV4 is still one of the best choices in the compact SUV segment, and the Platinum trim comes with a more luxurious feel. It’s roomy, comfortable, good-looking, and makes for a nice commuter vehicle. With a host of standard safety features, it’s a good choice for families too.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Toyota RAV4 Gallery

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Toyota RAV4 Official Site.
Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
*Limited and SE models shown.

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