Automotive

2020 Hyundai Palisade: If The B-52 Were An SUV

2020 Hyundai Palisade: If The B-52 Were An SUV The 2020 Hyundai Palisade makes its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
With seating for eight, it will likely be a top choice for larger and/or growing families.
But it ain’t super pretty to look at. Yes, it has a lot of on-board technology. But that front end!
Okay, SUVs are The Thing, I get that. Everybody has to make SUVs, I get that too. And everybody has to make a range of SUVs, up to and including big giant ones. I get that also. However, those are reasons, not an excuse. But this, the 2020 Hyundai Palisade?
There’s no excuse for this.
Sure, it’s as functional as a hammer, but boy, this thing is ugly.
Left Swipe
In the Air Force, people refer to the B-52 as the BUFF, Big Ugly Fat Fellow (change that “Fellow” out for another word that begins with “F” and isn’t polite to say on a family website such as Automoblog). And that, sadly, describes most of the 2020 Hyundai Palisade. Sure, it’s not ugly from every angle, but it is Big and Fat from every angle.
And that front end? Egads! It’s like someone from Lexus said, “Beat that!” and the design team from Hyundai said, “Hold My Beer.” I swear to Mireuk, the Palisade’s front end would look better after you ran it into a bridge abutment. I will say I really like the name Palisade though. It’s kinda classy and reminds me of that Freddy Cannon song written by Gong Show creator and alleged CIA hit man, Chuck Barris.
That’s the bad news, overall, but what’s the good news? First off, you know this thing is going to work. Hyundai calls it a mid-sized SUV, but taping in at over 16 feet, I’ll defer to my own eyes in this case. It looks immense and bulky and ungainly, which mean there’s lots of room inside.
Related: The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe is functional and much better looking.
2020 Hyundai Palisade front end. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Interior Treatments: Convenience & Accessibility
The interior aims to combine a sense of “relaxation and comfort” in a “serene environment” for eight (count em) eight passengers. Premium quilted Nappa leather is on offer and the instrument panel is layered in smooth wood grain. The second row seats move forward and out of the way via a button for access to the third row. The third row itself has power-folding/unfolding and reclining seats.
Second-row captain’s chairs are also available for the 2020 Hyundai Palisade, if you want to go that way.
There’s a conversation mirror for the driver to clearly see passengers in the rear. This is a nice way of saying, you can keep the little nippers occupied and monitored using standard equipment.

Interior Treatments: Tech-Focused
There’s a Blind View Monitor as part of the standard Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist system. It gives you a nice side view whenever you hit the turn signal. The multimedia stuff is, as one would expect, comprehensive. There’s a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch fully-digital TFT center cluster with various view modes.
Hyundai put in their latest navigation system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a Qi wireless charging pad. Two Bluetooth devices can be connected simultaneously while every Palisade has a total of seven USB outlets. And, of utmost importance: 16 cup holders!
It reminds me of that Freddy Cannon song written by Gong Show creator and alleged CIA hit man, Chuck Barris.Click To TweetPhoto: Hyundai Motor America.
Power & Performance: Snow Mode Included
All this heft is powered by a not-small and not-all-that-bad of an engine. An Atkinson-cycle 3.8-liter V6 (dual CVVT/ direct-injection) putting out 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft. of torque. The power is delivered to the wheels through an eight-speed automatic with both two-wheel and HTRAC four-wheel drive options.
Gear selection is a shift-by-wire affair, meaning it automatically puts the vehicle into park when the engine is off and the driver opens the door.
The HTRAC system also has a Snow Mode, with an electronic, variable-torque-split clutch and active torque control between the front and rear. In other words, Snow Mode regulates front and rear torque distribution, left and right wheel slip, engine torque, and shift patterns according to available traction levels.
Normal, Sport, and Smart modes are in addition to Snow Mode.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Pricing & Availability
Pricing was not announced, but that should be coming down the pike pretty soon. The 2020 Hyundai Palisade could be a good, solid, if ugly choice for your (family) hauling needs. Expect it at dealers next 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 Hyundai Palisade Gallery

Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor America.

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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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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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2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum Review: Should You Consider This Three-Row Family Hauler?

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum Review: Should You Consider This Three-Row Family Hauler? 2020 Toyota Highlander PlatinumIn Our Opinion: The 2020 Toyota Highlander feels like a big SUV, but overall it's easy to live with as a daily driver. All models are standard with a list of connectivity features, like Apple Car Play, Android Auto, Waze, and SiriusXM. Outward visibility is another strong point for the 2020 Toyota Highlander, making it easier to maneuver through the city. However, if you need every last inch of cargo space, the Highlander may fall short of your expectations. Other three-row SUVs offer more room, but the Highlander, even when equipped with all-wheel drive, still beats them in fuel economy. Exterior Styling 70Interior Layout 75Driving Dynamics86Safety & Tech Features 87Everyday Functionality93ProsFuel Economy Good VisibilityConnectivity Features ConsCargo Space Tight Third Row 82The Toyota Highlander is one of the best selling three-row SUVs on the market. For 2020, the Highlander benefits from a complete redesign with new and important updates that should help it stay at the top of the list for consumers. But Kia and Hyundai bring tough competition with the Telluride and Palisade three-row family haulers, as does Honda with a brand new Pilot.

This week, we drove the 2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum. Our test vehicle came with all-wheel drive and a V6 engine.

Toyota Highlander: What’s New For 2020?

The Toyota Highlander is fully redesigned for 2020 and offers increased cargo room behind the third row. Tech and connectivity updates for the new model year include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Waze. The previous four-cylinder engine is discontinued for the standard V6, while a new Highlander Hybrid promises better fuel economy.

Trim levels include L, LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum. Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 (PDF) package is standard on every Highlander.

Features & Options

The top-trim Highlander Platinum comes standard with LED headlights and fog lights, a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, and an eight-inch touchscreen with newly added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Platinum also includes tri-zone automatic climate control, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, second-row captain’s chairs, heated leather front seats with more adjustability, and a larger driver information display.

Related: Meet the 2020 Toyota Highlander, the truck-like station wagon. Our Highlander tester came with 20-inch wheels, navigation, ventilated front seats, and a premium JBL audio system, all of which we like. We also used the 12.3-inch touchscreen, a surround-view camera system, a digital rearview mirror, and a heads-up display. All of these features will make the range-topping Platinum appealing to buyers.

What Does The 2020 Toyota Highlander Cost?

Total MSRP, including destination, for our 2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum: $51,112. By comparison, the 2020 Toyota Highlander starts at $34,600. Hybrid models start at $38,200.

2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum.Interior Highlights: Cramped At Times

The Platinum is the most luxurious of all Highlander trims. It offers an extra level of comfort with leather heated and ventilated seats, heated second-row seats, and a premium sound system. There’s plenty of space up front for taller drivers, but the telescoping steering wheel could use a bit more range.

The 2020 Highlander is longer than last year’s model, adding more cargo space behind the third-row seat. The 2019 Highlander held 13.8 cubic feet of gear behind the third row compared with 16 cubic feet for the 2020 model year change. It’s more for the Highlander but still falls short of rivals like the new Kia Telluride (21 cubic feet) and Hyundai Palisade (18 cubic feet). Similarly, we thought the third row was tight in the Highlander, especially for adults.

If you need more cargo space, folding the 60/40 split third-row seats opens the space to 48.4 cubic feet, and then folding the second row raises that to 84.3 cubic feet.

Interior Highlights: Helpful Technology

We were happy to see Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration this year and the new 12.3-inch display on top-line Platinum trims. The rearview camera allows the driver to see even if the rear area is filled up with extra cargo. The birds-eye-view camera is sharp and can be rotated to see around the vehicle.

2020 Toyota Highlander: Engine & Powertrain

The new Highlander is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 with 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft. of torque. The V6 comes mated to an eight-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available for the Highlander Limited and Platinum. The optional all-wheel drive system can send up to 50 percent of the available torque to the rear wheels to counter wheel slip when necessary.

All-wheel drive models come with a multi-terrain select knob on the console. Toyota officially calls it “Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with Drive Mode Select and Driveline Disconnect.” It’s a long name, but we recommend going with all-wheel drive, even if you don’t live in a colder climate or do any mild off-roading.

Related: Everything you need to know about Toyota’s warranty.2020 Toyota Highlander Fuel Economy

EPA fuel mileage estimates for front-wheel drive models come in at 21/29 city/highway and 24 combined. All-wheel drive models get 20/27 city/highway and 23 combined. Against the competition, when equipped with all-wheel drive, the 2020 Toyota Highlander comes out on top in terms of fuel economy.

How Much Can The 2020 Highlander Tow?

When properly equipped with the available towing package, the V6 Highlander can tow a max of 5,000 lbs. The package includes a heavy-duty radiator with an engine oil cooler and Trailer Sway Control.

2020 Toyota Highlander under the hood. Driving Dynamics: Solid & Stable

Driving the new Highlander at high altitude in Colorado gave us a good test of the vehicle in an extreme environment. We drove new three-row SUV west of Denver at around 8,300 feet elevation. The Highlander responds quickly when we hit the gas, and we had decent power when it came to passing slower vehicles.

We like the Highlander’s ability to handle the twisty mountain curves as the all-wheel drive, and torque-vectoring systems control body roll. When pushed hard, those systems help keep the three-row SUV stable and planted. Toyota says it applies power to individual rear wheels to enhance the SUV’s handling, and we would concur. We drove the Highlander on dry pavement, but when the snow flies, you’ll have the added all-weather capability and safety.

The Highlander also offers good outward visibility, another key point for families hauling kids around. All models are standard with Apple Car Play and Android Auto, and offer additional features like Alexa In-Car compatibility, Waze, SiriusXM, and Wi-Fi connectivity. We can see a family on the go making use of each of these features at some point, if not daily.

Conclusion: A Solid Choice Overall

The 2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum receives high marks for its extra level of comfort and new technology. It gets above-average fuel economy for a V6 engine with just under 300 horsepower. The added cargo space behind the third row, though still less than the competition, is another plus for those who may trade in their older Highlander for a new one. Overall, the 2020 Highlander feels confident on the highway, is secure on twisty mountain roads, and offers plenty of connectivity technology for long trips.

Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. All of his firsthand reviews are archived on our test drives page. Follow Denis on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy

Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Original article: 2020 Toyota Highlander Platinum Review: Should You Consider This Three-Row Family Hauler?

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2018 Toyota Tundra CrewMax 1794 Edition Review

2018 Toyota Tundra CrewMax 1794 Edition Review
In a very competitive environment with the top-selling Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Nissan Titan, and Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra makes headway in catching the competition. Introduced for 2007, the current generation Tundra was revised for 2014, and gets some refreshing for 2018. While it needs a major overhaul, the Tundra still offers plenty of grunt and the luxury many truck buyers are looking for.
This week we drove the top-of-the-line, 2018 Toyota Tundra CrewMax 1794 Edition.
What’s New For 2018
The 2018 Tundra gets refreshed styling and Toyota’s Safety Sense driver assist package. The safety technology includes forward collision warning and mitigation, lane departure warning, auto high-beam control, and adaptive cruise control.
Features & Options
The 2018 Toyota Tundra Crewmax 1794 Edition ($50,130) comes loaded with standard features like foglights, variable intermittent windshield wipers, and an upgraded tech interface that includes a 7-inch touchscreen, HD and satellite radio, traffic information, and navigation. The CrewMax adds a power-opening rear window and an overhead console.
Up front it gets bucket seats, leather upholstery, an upgraded power driver’s seat, a power-adjustable passenger seat, a center console (with storage and console shifter), and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Our tester came with an auto-dimming rearview mirror, 20-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, movable tie-down cleats, and dual-zone climate control.
1794 Edition Features
At the top of the heap, the 1794 Edition comes with distinctive styling elements, LED daytime running lights, power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors, heated and ventilated front seats, driver-seat memory functions, and a 12-speaker JBL sound system.
Our 1794 Edition tester came with the optional TRD Off-Road package adding 18-inch TRD wheels, off-road tires, trail-tuned shock absorbers, skid plates, and tow hooks (included with 1794 Edition). Other features included the power moonroof ($850), TRD performance exhaust ($1,100), and TRD rear sway bar ($299). Total MSRP including destination: $54,892.

Interior Highlights
Tundra’s seats are big and roomy, but we thought they could use a bit more cushioning. Controls are large, logically arranged, and easy to figure out. We could even change the radio station without the owner’s manual. The center console is huge and perfect for working in the field because it can easily hold a laptop. A laptop computer will fit perfectly on the console as well.
This 1794 Edition came with brown leather seats with cream-colored stitching, and wood trim on the dash, door panels, steering wheel, and gear shifter. It also featured special 1794 floor mats front and back.
The big CrewMax offers seating for five with leg space for taller riders in every seat. The backseats fold up easily with one pull of the handle, opening up to a large cargo area that’s ready to carry those bigger work items. Toyota listened and opted for the folding seats over the tilt and recline feature. Now you can carry tools or other valuable items you’d prefer to have inside and not leave exposed in the open bed.

Engine, Towing, & Fuel Mileage Specs
A 5.7-liter V8 engine developing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft. of torque is standard on the Limited, Platinum, 1794, and TRD Pro trims. All Tundras equipped with the 5.7-liter V8 come with a standard tow package and a larger 38-gallon gas tank. It was more than ready to tow up to its rated 10,500 lbs. This tester also came equipped with a 4:30 axle ratio, engine and transmission coolers, and an HD battery and alternator.
EPA fuel economy estimates are 13/17 city/highway and 14 combined with 4WD.
Driving Dynamics
The first thing we noticed after getting behind the wheel was the throaty exhaust note. The optional TRD performance dual exhaust system brings the 5.7-liter V8 to life. We found ourselves jumping hard on the accelerator this week just to hear the sound inside the cabin. The 5.7-liter V8 impresses, thanks its generous torque output and smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.
We had a snow storm hit the mountains this week and shifted from 2H to 4H with the knob on the Tundra’s dash. The 4W Demand 4WD system instantly shifted into action and we never lost traction as we moved from dry pavement to a snow-covered highway in less than a few miles. On the open road, Tundra gives the driver a feeling of confidence and security in the extreme elements with its size, commanding view of the road, and all-terrain winter tires. We had no problem passing slower traffic that was having more difficulty with the slick roads.
Ride quality is reasonably comfortable, though rough pavement and the dirt roads leading to our house produced impacts beyond the normal range. During our urban driving, the Tundra handled well in heavy city traffic. The rear backup camera came in handy as we parked the long CrewMax in a tight parking space.
Conclusion
The 2018 Toyota Tundra CrewMax is a capable full-size pickup, and when equipped with the TRD Off-Road package, can deliver in a big way for those using it for hunting, camping, and boating trips. The 1794 Edition adds an extra level of comfort beyond the ordinary and the new safety tech gives greater security on the road.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Toyota Tundra Gallery

Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Tundra Limited also shown (red photos).

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Letter From The UK: Winning Over The Electric Car Skeptics

Letter From The UK: Winning Over The Electric Car Skeptics
The citizens of Great Britain are, to say the least, a skeptical lot. Tell them white is white and they will question how many shades of gray that includes. Tell them their borders are safe from invasion and watch the barricades appear in the streets like scenes from Les Miserables. Offer them a fair choice and they will ask what the catch is. Not that they’re all like that of course; some of them are true cynics.
Slow & Steady
Thus, when they are told electric vehicles are The New Big Automotive Thing, the best reaction you will get from them is “we’ll see,” possibly with an added snort of derision. In short, the take up of electric cars has been slow for all the reasons we now know, including range anxiety and the lack of fast-charging.
It is a fact, however, that the rate of purchase for electric cars is increasing, albeit slowly. Some of the cars are very good indeed and really quite fun, but unless your driving is confined to a local area or short journeys generally, they just don’t measure up. Under no circumstances will we Brits undertake a long trip and be content to sit in a car park for an hour or more just to get a battery boost.
Sales of EVs are not helped by the charging issue. They simply do not top up quickly enough even if you are lucky to find an unoccupied charger or one not broken down, and there’s a lot of those. This really is a scenario where the cart has been put before the horse and it has had a detrimental effect on sales, no matter how otherwise excellent the cars are.
Powering The Future
So that problem continues to be ongoing. It does appear there is a slow improvement although the vacillations of politicians continually hold the entrepreneurial go-getting spirit back. They want us in electric cars and then fail to aid the process. Where have we heard that before?
Fortunately, the automotive industry persists. 2018 is likely to bring many new automotive innovations to the fore along with some striking new electric and hybrid cars (thankfully, for the old school road warrior, also a couple of V8 road monsters like the new Bentley Bentayga V8. Boom! Get this dust in your batteries Mr. Electric).
At the recent global CES (Consumer Technology Association) conference, some technological advances were presented by car makers. Hyundai is introducing a fuel cell vehicle with autonomous features, for example, and Kia was featuring a new, all-electric concept that demonstrated the brand’s future. There is, however, one new development, years in the planning, that is likely to change the electric car market, and also possibly change the mind of UK car buyers, even cynics like me.
At CES 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada, Hyundai revealed the Nexo, an entirely new fuel cell EV, complete with an array of advanced driver assistance systems to expand on for automated driving. Hyundai called it the “technological flagship” of their growing eco-vehicle portfolio. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
In-Wheel Power
Electric hub motors within the wheels are really here. It’s the coming thing and it seems rightly inevitable this is the way forward for pure electric drive. It is entirely true the concept is not new, but that it is now proven to work is the point. A British-based company (Hurrah! Ain’t dead yet World!) has spent the last eight years designing and developing a unique and very versatile in-wheel electric drive system for hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery electric light-duty vehicles. The system can, they say, improve vehicle fuel economy, add torque, increase power, and improve the handling of both new and, crucially, existing vehicles. This indicates no absolute need to necessarily develop brand new models to fit the technology.

I’ll Let Jennifer Aniston Take Over (Joke for TV addicts)
Here’s the science bit: This fully-integrated, direct-drive solution combines in-wheel motors with an integrated inverter, control electronics, and software – no separate large, heavy, and costly inverter is required. Each motor fits easily in the unused space behind a conventional 18 to 24-inch wheel that can, cleverly, use the original equipment wheel bearing. The system, I have learned, reduces part count, complexity, and cost. There is no need to integrate traditional drivetrain components such as external gearing, transmissions, driveshafts, axles, and differentials.
The developer says each motor can produce 81kW, equivalent to 109 bhp, and thus presumably, a basic two-wheel-drive electric car could conceivably produce peak power of 218 bhp and a huge woosh of torque. Put that in your toy city car millennials!

But Does It really Work?
Yes, is the short answer. It has been tested successfully in a Volkswagen Golf although not without issues it has to be said. With the extra weight in the wheels, the vehicle’s drive dynamics change. To counter this, the suspension of the test car was tuned by an independent vehicle dynamics expert. This was shown to work and the additional unsprung weight was handled successfully. The test car was made to handle as well as a standard model. The effect on tire wear was not mentioned and I do wonder about that.
As with any automotive advance, I have doubts it will be plain sailing, but this does seem, to me, to be a worthwhile new development in the advancement of the electric car. The potential for simplified drivetrains and some real enthusiast levels of performance, with both two and four-wheel drive vehicles, is clear.
Sure, it’s expensive right now, but once rolling as it were, further development and economies of scale will solve that problem. With the much-vaunted advances from Ernst Stavro Blofeld and his henchmen at Tesla, and elsewhere in battery and charging technology, it may well mean the electric car will soon make sense for all drivers. If that’s the case you can count me in.
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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