Automotive

Mercedes-AMG Special Editions Arrive This Summer

Mercedes-AMG Special Editions Arrive This Summer

Mercedes and their in-house hot rod shop, AMG, have announced a run of special edition models. In this case there are three of them: The AMG GT C Roadster Edition 50, the Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet Ocean Blue Edition, and the AMG Performance Studio Package for the Mercedes-AMG C43, Coupe and Cabriolet.
I know, it’s kind of odd to consider, since I always think of AMG versions as already being their special editions, but no. These are actually special, special editions.
AMG GT C Roadster Edition 50
First off the block is the AMG GT C Roadster Edition 50, which gets a special equipment package. The AMG Roadster is a special version of the AMG Coupe, which is both a very competent car and rather attractive, a rare thing to say about German cars. This roadster is called “Edition 50” because, surprise, they are only making 500 cars worldwide. But only 50 of them are coming to America, so I guess that makes the name okay.
Oh, and it’s also the 50th anniversary of AMG, which was founded in 1967.
The GT C Roadster Edition 50 can be spotted by a special paint, designo Graphite Grey Magno. There are black chrome accents on the side skirt trim and front splitter, along with trim strips in the air intakes of the Panamericana grille. Other styling elements include the fins on the side air outlets in the front fenders; there are additional unique styling cues on the rear diffuser, along with tailpipe trim elements.
There’s black chrome for days on this guy and the wheels are special too, with a cross-spoke AMG forged design featuring the aforementioned black chrome.
On the inside there’s even more of that black and silver vibe. The upholstery is Silver Pearl/Black Exclusive Nappa Leather with Grey diamond-patterned contrasting topstitching. The AMG Performance steering wheel? That’s covered in black DINAMICA microfiber with Grey contrasting topstitching. The 12 o’clock mark on the steering wheel is in Silver Pearl, and there’s Edition 50 badging.
The GT C Roadster Edition 50 is powered by an AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo that puts out 550 horsepower (5,750-6,750 rpm) and 502 lb-ft of torque (1,900-5,750 rpm ), which is a very broad torque curve indeed. The transmission hangs out back as a transaxle, fed by a torque tube from the AMG plant. The transaxle is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The whole package can get to 60 in 3.7 seconds, topping out at an electronically limited 196 mph.
2018 Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster “Edition 50.” Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet Ocean Blue Edition
The C63 Cabriolet Ocean Blue Edition comes with its own unique styling and design. As one would imagine, there’s lots of blue, specifically, Deep Ocean Blue, which is a new color. That color is used for the fabric acoustic soft top and numerous other details such as the trim strips on the front and rear bumper, and the wheel center caps. The Deep Ocean Blue acts as a contrasting color throughout the Crystal Grey interior.
The analog clock is a nice touch – it’s also highlighted by Deep Ocen Blue stitching.
The sheet metal itself is painted in designo Cashmere White Magno to contrast with the Deep Ocean Blue found elsewhere on the car. The interior is primarily Crystal Grey nappa leather with diamond quilting and Deep Ocean Blue topstitching for contrast. There’s a special edition badge in the center console in case you forget what you’re driving. Mercedes-AMG is up front about the car being aimed at a “particularly fashion-conscious and design-oriented target group.”
That does not, however, mean this cruiser can’t move.
Motivated by a handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo that cranks out 503 horsepower (5,500-6,250 rpm) and 516 lb-ft. of torque (1,750-4,500 rpm), the rear-wheel drive C63 Cabriolet Ocean Blue Edition can hit 60 in 4 seconds, topping out at an electronically limited 174 mph.
The car itself is limited to just 150 units worldwide.
2018 Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet Ocean Blue Edition. Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
AMG Performance Studio Package
The third of the three AMG specials is the Performance Studio Package for the Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe and Cabriolet. Mainly, this seems to be an over-glorified trim package with an AMG sourced mill under the hood.
The car has numerous black details slathered inside and out. And Mercedes-AMG points out that “for the first time, the C43 Cabriolet is available with black exterior details.” I know, I, too, can barely contain my excitement. The radiator grille sports black pins instead of chrome; the trim strips on the front splitter, the rear bumper, side skirts, trunk lid spoiler, and tailpipe trim elements are all painted black.
The 19-inch multi-spoke light-alloy wheels? Black. The rim of the steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber is also black.
2018 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe with AMG Performance Studio. Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.

AMG Performance Studio Package Performance
And yup, there’s that AMG engine up front. A 3.0L V6 biturbo putting out 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft. of torque. This is delivered to the bahn via an AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system (with a nice 31:69 torque split) and a 9-speed automatic transmission. Performance stats? How about 4.6 seconds to 60 and . . . wait, this thing tops out at 130 mph? And even then it’s electronically limited?
That can’t be right. [Goes and checks.] [Goes and checks again.] Man, it is right! That’s pretty slow.
Shoot, when I was in high school, the Smith brother’s mom had a station wagon that was faster than that. And I mean a lot faster. Okay, so dad Smith was a semi-pro drag racer and he dropped a 440 Wedge motor into the thing, but that Polara could fly, no two ways about it. But why get off onto a tangent, especially one of dubious legality?
These new Mercedes-AMG models are on display at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, and will be available for order this summer.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
2018 Mercedes-AMG C43 Cabriolet with AMG Performance Studio. Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
Photos & Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

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2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport Review

2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport Review

What’s sporty, fuel-efficient, fast, turbocharged, fun-to-drive, and has the utility of a hatch? No, it’s not a new Subaru WRX hatch, and it doesn’t cost a fortune. It’s the new Honda Civic Hatchback Sport.
It offers up a lot for the money, and it could be Honda’s best new launch in years.
We recently drove a Rallye Red 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport with the 6-speed manual gearbox.
What’s New For 2017
The Honda Civic received a complete redesign last year, and now comes in a hatchback body style, making it a compelling compact that offers up plenty of utility. The available turbocharged engine produces a bit more power in the hatch model too.
Hatchback Sport Features
The Honda Civic Hatchback Sport has a starting MSRP of $21,300 and comes loaded with standard features: automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights and taillights, 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks, an expanded-view driver’s side mirror, automatic climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and manual front seats with driver height adjustment.
Electronic features include a 5-inch central display screen, a rearview camera, Bluetooth capability, and a four-speaker sound system with a USB port.
The Sport gets a more powerful version of the turbocharged four cylinder engine, 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, a center-outlet dual exhaust, aerodynamic bodywork, a rear center armrest with cupholders, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Total MSRP including destination: $22,175.

Interior Highlights
Stepping inside reveals a sporty cabin and a driver-focused cockpit. Everything is easy to reach and the controls are straight forward. The highly adjustable seats, and standard tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel made it easy to find a comfortable driving position as we headed out for a weekend drive.
The Honda Civic Hatchback Sport we tested offered top-notch materials throughout and comfortable cloth seats, along with Honda’s typically tight finish. We liked the Civic’s extra storage spots up front for our gloves, cell phones, and sunglasses. The large backseat allows 6-foot-tall adults to sit with sufficient leg and headroom.
The rear hatch offers extra utility for loading larger items after the setbacks are lowered flat. Overall, the Civic Hatch features a well planned out space, with everything packaged so you can store smaller things as well as large cargo items in the back.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Honda Civic Hatch Sport is powered by a sweet 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged direct injected engine. It produces 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft. of torque. Get the 6-speed manual rower if you are a driving enthusiast. It comes with 15 more lb-ft of torque than the CVT automatic.
Fuel economy is excellent with an EPA estimated 30/39 city/highway and 33 combined mpg.
Driving Dynamics
We were all over the city of Denver, and even took a couple trips to Colorado Springs over the last week in the new Civic Hatchback. In the city, it was easy to maneuver through narrow streets, and we were able to squeeze into tight parking spots with ease. We navigated some congestion and had no trouble getting around slower traffic on the highway.
The 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with the manual transmission is more powerful than you would think. It comes with a sweet exhaust note and solid power delivery, which is nice to see in a Honda powerplant. We did plenty of miles on the highway, and the Civic Hatchback offered a composed ride that wasn’t too floaty or harsh on the bumps.
The cabin is a bit noisy at high speeds, but far better than Civic models of the past.
Up in the high country west of Denver, the extra power and torque of the turbo engine kicked in and we could down-shift the 6-speed manual to find the perfect gear for passing. The Civic with the 6-speed manual rower is the way to go if you like to drive. It has quick throws and smooth shifts making it a joy to drive. The 1.5-liter turbo feels extra quick, thanks to the additional, steady low-end torque. The side visibility is a bit less than previous models due to the raked roofline, but that’s the price you pay for the sporty hatch look.
Conclusion
If you want an affordable, sporty, fuel-efficient, fast, turbocharged, and fun-to-drive compact with utility, the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport with the 6-speed manual gearbox is the way to go. Add in a comfortable, roomy interior filled with upscale materials, and you have a great city commuter that you won’t get tired of driving.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Gallery

We trust TrueCar.com to give us the best, up to date, and TRUE pricing of what people are really paying for their cars. Check them out for more research on this car:

2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Official Site
Photos: Honda North America

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Automoblog Book Garage: Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance

Automoblog Book Garage: Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance

We are really jazzed about the new Chevy Camaro. Recently, we reported on the 2017 ZL1’s impressive top speed and how the ZL1 LE is utilizing amazing technology to push performance boundaries. The Camaro is a timeless and iconic American machine no matter the era, and this weekend in our Book Garage series, we go back to the very beginning; long before the new ZL1 existed.
Why do we love the Camaro so much? Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance gets to the heart of the matter.
Storied Performance
In the early 1960s, American automakers raced to meet the demands of baby boomers, a burgeoning market that craved something more unique with regard to cars. Ford got the jump with the Mustang but the bowtie would not settle to the blue oval, responding with the Camaro in 1967.
The Mustang and Camaro rivalry has continued since, and if you fancy yourself on Team Camaro, you fondly recall the likes of the RC, SS, Z28, and IROC-Z. And 50 years from now, we will be doing the same with the ZL1.
Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance documents the entire story; how Chevrolet developed advanced tech at the time for the Camaro, how changes in the market put a strain on muscle cars, and how the battle between Mustang spilled over onto dealership showfloors. The more modern day Camaro is examined, detailing its departure and ultimate return in 2010.
The book features stunning, never-before-seen archival photography from General Motors.
Author
Mike Mueller has worked as a freelance automotive photojournalist since 1991. A lifetime car enthusiast, Mueller has written and photographed more than 25 automotive and truck history books and contributed photography to dozens more. Among his long list of titles are Motorbooks’ Chevy Chevelle 50 Years, The Complete Book of Corvette, and The Complete Book of Classic Dodge and Plymouth Muscle.
Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance is available through Amazon. Other works by Mike Mueller are available through Motorbooks.
Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance Gallery

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2020 Toyota Corolla XSE Review: Not Perfect But Much Improved

2020 Toyota Corolla XSE Review: Not Perfect But Much Improved 91Solid 2020 Toyota Corolla XSEOverall Impression Good fuel economy.Ideal for younger buyers. Improved styling & design.ProsNice Interior Safety & Tech Features ConsCargo Space CVT Feel (At Times) The 2020 Toyota Corolla gets a full redesign, making it more competitive against some very strong rivals like the Honda Civic. The Civic is the best-selling sedan in the U.S., and is the top dog in an already highly-competitive segment. For 2020, the Corolla gains a bit more personality while material quality improves; both of which were among the drawbacks of the previous generation. The new Corolla also gets updated exterior styling, while the interior receives a much improved overhaul.
This week, we’ve been driving the top-of-the-line, 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE.
Toyota Corolla XSE: What’s New For 2020?
The Toyota Corolla is fully redesigned for the 2020 model year, now riding on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA). Trim levels include L, LE, SE, XLE, and XSE, with the SE and XSE grades receiving a new 2.0-liter engine. A hybrid option is also available, which combines a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gas engine with two motors/generators. If you would rather have a hatchback, you’re in luck. The Toyota Corolla also comes as a hot hatch for the 2020 model year.
2020 Toyota Corolla.
Features & Options: Safety & Tech Treatments
Our 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE tester ($25,450) came standard with LED headlights, automatic high beams, a rearview camera, and 60/40-split folding rear seats. The newly-redesigned sedan also gets Toyota’s Safety Connect emergency communications suite; Bluetooth capability; Wi-Fi hotspot; seven-inch touchscreen; USB port; Apple CarPlay and a six-speaker sound system. Advanced safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and a traffic sign reader.
18-inch alloy wheels, upgraded headlights, sporty exterior treatments, power-adjustable front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel were among the other features on our 2020 Corolla tester. In addition, the XSE comes with heated front seats, an eight-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, and blind-spot monitoring. The XSE also gets the new and more powerful 2.0-liter engine and CVT automatic.
The 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE comes standard with Entune 3.0 Audio Plus.
Features & Options: Connectivity & Infotainment
Connectivity options seem nearly endless for the 2020 Toyota Corolla. The LE and SE grades get Entune 3.0 Audio with an eight-inch touchscreen and two USB ports. Above that, Entune 3.0 Audio Plus (standard on XSE and XLE – optional on SE CVT) adds HD Radio and Weather/Traffic info; SiriusXM with Cache Radio; Entune 3.0 Connected Services; Service Connect, and Remote Connect. Going even further is the Entune 3.0 Audio Premium package that’s optional on XSE and XLE. This includes a nine-speaker JBL audio system, voice recognition, navigation, points of interest search, and Destination Assist Connect.
Our XSE tester came with the optional Connectivity Package which included the premium JBL audio system; and the Advanced Lighting Package with an adaptive front lighting system and ambient interior lighting. Total MSRP including destination: $29,168. By comparison, the 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan starts at $19,600.
2020 Toyota Corolla XSE interior layout.
Interior Highlights: Sleek & Clean
The redesigned Corolla cabin is sleek, with the eight-inch infotainment touchscreen sitting prominently on the dash for easy access. Material quality is up as fewer hard plastics and more soft-touch surfaces decorate the cabin. The new dash is layered and more modern looking than the outgoing model.
The XSE’s front sport seats are comfortable and didn’t leave us feeling tired after a number of longer commutes to the city. With power adjustability we found the perfect driving position quite easily. Visibility improves by Toyota moving the side mirrors to the door panels, making space for an extra quarter-window within the door frame. Side and rear views are better as well, but the sedan does come with blind-spot monitoring just in case.
Room in the back seat is what you would expect for a compact car. Taller adults will not want to ride more than short distances but it’s a perfect environment for kids to spend time. If you need to carry extra cargo, the back seats fold down, but not entirely flat, which might prevent you from hauling some larger items. The 2020 Toyota Corolla sedan comes with 13 cubic feet of trunk space, which is a bit below average in this segment.
Related: The case for sedans and why they are still important.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE is powered by a new 2.0-liter engine producing 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque. Toyota says the engine is smaller and lighter, helping to lower the Corolla’s center of gravity while improving fuel economy. It comes mated to a specialized CVT automatic (Dynamic-Shift CVT) with steering wheel paddle shifters and a Sport mode. Some models are eligible for a six-speed manual transmission with downshift rev-matching control.
EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 31/38 city/highway and 34 combined mpg. When it comes to fuel economy, the 2020 Toyota Corolla is right in line with the competition.
The 2020 Toyota Corolla has slimmer A-pillars to help with visibility.
Driving Dynamics: Eager To Find Out
Toyota says the 2020 Corolla is the most fun-to-drive yet, and we would concur it is better than the previous generation. Eager to find out, we immediately took the Corolla on the mountain roads near where this journalist lives west of Denver. After throwing the sedan around a few tight corners it was clear, the new Corolla, although better, is not the leader when it comes to topping the fun-to-drive meter. We would reserve that to the VW Golf and Honda Civic.
Driving Dynamics: Getting Used To The CVT
The Corolla XSE we tested comes standard with what Toyota lists as a sport suspension and transmission. The new Corolla uses a physical first gear to get moving, then shifts to the CVT to maintain the car’s momentum. We used the paddle shifters that allow selection of 10 simulated speeds that react quickly, but there’s a distinct pause with each pull up. We found ourselves shifting to auto and letting the transmission do everything itself.
The combination of the new 2.0-liter four-cylinder and CVT in our XSE tester proved more than adequate for our daily commutes to the city. Even though it’s not a sports car, the new Corolla is a competent urban commuter.
Toyota says the multi-link rear suspension is an advancement versus the torsion beam in the previous model.
Conclusion: A Solid Competitor
At the top-of-the-lineup, the 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE gets plenty of improvements to make it a serious competitor against the Honda Civic and Mazda 3. The new Corolla still comes with Toyota’s reputation for reliability, and for the average consumer that’s a hard trait to beat. It comes with a long list of safety and tech features, improved styling, and even offers a comfortable ride.
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
2020 Toyota Corolla XSE Gallery

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

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Top Companies for Extended Warranties for Cars Over 100k Miles

Top Companies for Extended Warranties for Cars Over 100k Miles Purchasing an extended warranty for a car with 100,000 miles has it advantages. Learn what providers have the best protection for older vehicles, including why we choose CARCHEX.
See which vehicles last the longest, which ones are deemed unreliable, and how a service contract can benefit you and your wallet.
Affiliate disclosure: Automoblog and its partners may be compensated when you purchase the products below.
Today’s cars last much longer than your grandfather’s first – or even third – car. In fact, the average age of a car in 2016 was nearly 12 years old, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. That’s four to five years older than the average car in the 1990s.
You’re likely to put well over 100,000 miles on your car, and many manufacturer warranties expire before that mark. An extended warranty for cars over 100,000 miles, however, can give you continued coverage and peace of mind for even the most expensive repairs.
Below, we break down reputable options for buying an extended warranty on an older car, including our pick: CARCHEX.
To get a free, tailored-to-you CARCHEX quote from one of their representatives, call 866-254-0205 or visit the CARCHEX website.
Is An Extended Auto Warranty Worth It?
It certainly can be. An extended warranty is a service contract rather than a legal warranty, so it will always cost extra, because it’s not included with your car’s purchase. It’s best to get an extended warranty if the price is the same or less than the cost of expected repairs.
It also depends on your lifestyle and vehicle. Consider getting an extended warranty if these points pertain to you:
Your car’s manufacturer’s warranty only lasts three to five years.
You have an older vehicle that will most likely need major, costly repairs.
Extended warranties are a great option for used cars purchased privately.
Long commutes or frequent travel push you past your factory warranty quickly.
Your vehicle type has known (and often specific) problems, especially as mileage increases.
You find comfort in the idea of something that takes care of all aspects of car repair for you, including towing and roadside assistance.
If your vehicle requires any type of repair related to general wear and tear, then an extended warranty might not be the most cost-effective option. Always make sure to read the provider’s contract for full coverage details.
What Should Your Extended Car Warranty Include?
Don’t choose an extended warranty that skimps on repairs and dodges on its promises. If your engine is kaput and the service contract only covers repairs on the most meaningless parts, then you’re in for a headache. Coverage is key, and there are two main types.
Powertrain
A powertrain warranty covers only the most important components of the car, which makes it a cheaper and longer contract. With powertrain coverage, you’ll get protection for certain parts of these components:
Engine
Rear axle
Front axle
Driveshaft
Transmission
We can’t guarantee every part of your car’s engine or driveshaft will be covered, but many warranty services can have extensive coverage under more expensive plans.
Bumper to Bumper
If your old car is giving you breakdown anxiety, then a bumper-to-bumper warranty is the best type of extended warranty, especially for cars over 100,000 miles. While it won’t cover every single part of the car, it can cover other important components of your braking and electronic systems, along with lighting, suspension, air conditioning, and power steering. Of course, this type of coverage will come at a higher price.
Some extended auto warranties will have an added bonus of flexibility for covered auto repair shops, as well as additional reimbursement for rental car services or towing. It’s always a good idea to ask about these features.
The best car warranties include benefits like roadside assistance and reimbursement for towing and rental cars.
Who Are The Most Reputable Extended Car Warranty Companies?
There are over a dozen extended warranty companies, but we picked five of the top providers for cars with more than 100,000 miles. Most extended auto warranty companies offer multiple plans, from powertrain-only warranties to full-coverage options similar to your car’s factory warranty. We picked plans best suited for high-mileage vehicles.
CARCHEX and Endurance specifically advertise plans meant for vehicles with greater than 90,000 miles, though CARCHEX has many available plans at competitive prices compared to just four plans from Endurance. Delta Auto Protect offers only three warranty plans.
Gold Coverage by CARCHEX
Max 10-year coverage:
A/C
Engine
Braking
Steering
Electrical
Drive Axle
Transmission
Fuel Delivery
Stated Component Coverage by AA Auto Protection
Max coverage varies:
Brakes
Heating
Cooling
Steering
Electrical
Drive Axle
Suspension
Fuel Delivery
Transmission
Gas/Diesel Engine
Select Premiere by Endurance
Max coverage varies:
Engine
Heating
Cooling
Electrical
Drive Axle
Transmission
Transfer Case
Air Conditioning
Seals and Gaskets
Diamond by Delta Auto Protect
Max 8-year coverage:
Engine
Electrical
Drive Axle
Transmission
Brake System
Cooling System
Mid-Level Coverage by autopom!
Max 7-year coverage:
Engine
Drive Axle
Transmission
Differential Assembly
Additional steering, suspension, heating, cooling, braking, and fuel delivery systems.
Customer service can be just as important as warranty coverage. You want a contract with an extended warranty company that is transparent, responsive, and trustworthy.
CARCHEX and autopom! have both received perfect scores from the Better Business Bureau. CARCHEX also won the Golden Bridge award for best customer service three years in a row.
BBB Ratings:
CARCHEX
AA Auto Protection
Endurance
Delta Auto Protect
autopom!
A+
A –
B
F
A+
Data accurate as of August 2019.
Why We Like CARCHEX Extended Warranties For High-Mileage Cars
CARCHEX wins our vote for an extended warranty. With bumper-to-bumper coverage, transferrable plans, and affordable payments, the company also boasts a good reputation within the industry.
CARCHEX Stats
16 available plans.
20 years of experience.
99 percent customer satisfaction on BBB.
Endorsed by CARFAX, The Motoring Club, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, and more.
CARCHEX Benefits for Cars Over 100,000 Miles
In addition to component coverage, you’ll also receive these additional perks.
Battery Jump Service: An old battery can be given a boost or jump start.
Car Rental: Get reimbursed (within a dollar limit) for a rental while your vehicle is being repaired.
Tow Service: Receive up to $100 for your old or used car to be towed to the nearest repair facility.
Roadside Assistance: Older cars are more likely to breakdown. In the event you’re stuck, you’ll get immediate assistance any time of the day for free with your coverage plan.
Network Flexibility: CARCHEX has a network of over 30,000 mechanics that you can choose from for your repair, so you have a say in the quality of service and your car’s longevity.
Trip Interruption Service: If you rack up miles in travel, you can receive reimbursements of up to $300 for accommodation and food if your vehicle breaks down more than 100 miles from your home.
Find The Right Price With A CARCHEX Representative
If you drive an old car or you accrue miles quickly, you have the option to protect your car and wallet in the event of a breakdown.
Speak to a CARCHEX representative about an extended warranty for cars over 100,000 miles and get a free quote when you call 866-254-0205 or visit the CARCHEX website.
Can Your Car Go The Distance?
Certain cars are more reliable than others, especially after 100,000 miles. So, which cars will likely need the help of an extended warranty, and which cars can survive without?
Longest Lasting Vehicles
In a 2018 study by iSeeCars.com, experts looked at 13.5 million cars sold in 2017 and determined SUVs, especially those made by domestic automakers, are the longest lasting vehicles. Below are the two highest ranked vehicles in the study.
Make & Model: Toyota Sequoia
Durability: Toyota is famous for reliability, with the Sequoia having strong reliability ratings as far back as 2006. The iSeeCars.com study showed 6.6 percent of these SUVs had over 200,000 miles, and 0.2 percent had over 300,000 miles. According to RepairPal, the Toyota Sequoia has an average repair cost of $621, which is 4th out of 14 for full-size SUVs. We drove the 2018 Toyota Sequoia TRD Sport last year, and gave it a 91 percent grade.
Make & Model: Ford Expedition
Durability: iSeeCars.com reported 5.4 percent of Ford Expeditions have more than 200,000 miles. The average maintenance and repair cost is $833, which is slightly more expensive than RepairPal’s average of $725.
2018 Ford Expedition. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Least Durable Vehicles
Consumer Reports looked into the 10 least reliable cars and found the Volkswagen Atlas and Cadillac CTS to be the worst. Here are a few stats on each:
Make & Model: Volkswagen Atlas
Durability: HotCars.com included this midsize SUV on their 2019 “Built to Crumble” list, noting electrical, engine, and brake issues. The 2018 model has had 10 recalls, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Model: Buick Enclave
Durability: Consumer Reports scored the Buick Enclave’s predicted reliability at 1 out of 5. RepairPal also found this midsize SUV to have a higher frequency and severity of repairs when compared to other cars.
Our Advice
An extended warranty will lessen the impact of expensive repairs on your pocketbook, regardless of what kind of car you drive. That’s because the warranty’s annual payout is likely to be equal to or less than a costly repair, so you get more bang for your buck with a service contract. In addition, an extended warranty can increase your car’s resale value.
To learn more about what an Extended Vehicle Protection Plan and its cost would look like for you, answer a few questions online or call 866-254-0205 to get a free quote from CARCHEX.

Q&A: Extended Warranties For Cars Over 100,000 Miles
Q: What is the cost of an extended auto warranty?
A: The typical extended car warranty is more than $1,000 on average when you purchase from the manufacturer. However, small down payments and easy monthly payment plans can make repairs much more affordable than an out-of-pocket engine rebuild. After all, it is usually less expensive to repair an older car than it is to buy a new one.
Going with a third-party service that provides a multitude of coverage plans, you can expect a cheaper price tag. CARCHEX also offers payment plans from six months to 24 months, deductible plans, and options with a $0 deductible.
Q: Does AAA offer extended auto warranties?
A: You may already enjoy roadside assistance from AAA, but can it cover high repair costs on an older car? Not all companies offer extended warranty services in every state. AAA is a clear example.
AAA Northeast and AAA Mid Atlantic provide extended warranties and vehicle protection plans, but you may not be able to find this service in other regions of the country. Check with your local AAA site.

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Acura Type S Concept: The Sporty Acura We’ve All Been Waiting For

Acura Type S Concept: The Sporty Acura We’ve All Been Waiting For A new Acura concept ushers in the next generation of Type S performance variants.
Acura says they will debut two Type S performance variants in the next two years.
Designers say they focused on giving the new Type S Concept a powerful stance.
The Acura Type S Concept heralds the return of Acura’s sporting roots. If you’re too young to remember the magnificent 90s, Acuras were luxurious and high-performance derivatives of Honda vehicles. But the Japanese car maker had an identity crisis in the late 2000s. It was the time when Acura vehicles grew a “beak,” which exaggerated the body lines of their vehicles.
Now Acura is brandishing the Type S Concept at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering in Monterey, California. This magnificent ride also graced the Concept Lawn at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. And to tell you honestly, the upcoming Type S doesn’t look like a concept at all. It looks pretty much like the real thing, the kind you buy from Acrua dealerships.
From the looks of it, the Type S is destined to make a definitive bang in the world of sports sedans.
Acura Type S: Brief History Lesson
The legacy starts with the 2001-2003 Acura 3.2CL Type S. It debuted in 2001 with a 260 horsepower 3.2-liter V6; a five-speed automatic with manual shift function; 17-inch wheels and a sport suspension. In the final model year, Acura gave the vehicle a worthy six-speed manual upgrade.
The Acura 3.2TL Type S appeared at that same time with the same engine and transmission as the CL Type S, but it was never offered with a manual box. The Acura TSX Type S, the one I previously mentioned, came to fruition in 2002 with a 2.0-liter i-VTEC four-banger and six-speed manual. The latest Type S is the TL from 2007 to 2008. It’s the third-gen TL with a 3.5-liter, 286 horsepower V6, six-speed manual, quad exhaust, four-piston Brembo brakes, and sport suspension.
Finally, after ten years of absence, Acura is back in the game with the Type S Concept.
Acura Type S Concept: Pretty Much What I Was Expecting
Acura has been flying under the radar in my ever-increasing automotive vocabulary. Back in the early 2000s, a bone-stock Acura RSX Type S with a 220 horsepower K20Z1 motor and six-speed, close-ratio manual transmission demanded respect. You’re higher than a Civic, and your car won’t wag its tail between the legs when dealing with stock Mitsubishi Evos or Subaru Impreza STIs. In tuned spec, I’ve seen many Type S vehicles blow muscle cars in a drag race.
But now, it seems Acura is going after the bigwigs with the Type S Concept – and I’m talking about sportier models like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes CLA or C-Class, Lexus IS, and even the flawed yet unhinged Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. “The return of Type S is instrumental in our mission to return Acura to its performance roots,” said Jon Ikeda, Vice President and Brand Officer at Acura. “From bringing back the NSX, to winning at the highest level of North American sports car racing and ushering in a new generation starting with the RDX, we are revitalizing Acura on the foundation of our original and authentic brand values, piece by piece.”
Best of all, the ghastly beak is gone. Drinks (and spliffs) are on me!
Acura Type S Concept. Photo: Acura.
Previewing The Next-Generation Acura TLX
Here’s the interesting part: The Type S Concept is previewing the next-gen TLX. In other words, the car you’re seeing here is actually the TLX Type S, and Acura says the whole shebang is coming to North America sooner than you think. If this is what a high-performance version of the upcoming TLX will really look like, I’m all in on the styling.
In fact, I’m really rooting for the Type S Concept’s styling. I was expecting the ridiculousness of the Civic Type R with all those boy-racer flaps, wings, and aero cutouts in the bodywork. Instead, what we’re seeing is a perfect example of restraint. It has a powerful and expressive silhouette, yet the whole darn thing looks so clean. It’s still luxuriously sporty, but the wide track, long hood, and low stance are brandishing some racing DNA.
Good Vibrations
Looking at this car gave me the same giddy emotions I had when I first laid eyes on the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. I had the same butterflies-in-stomach feeling when the Genesis G70 came to market. Never did I think an Acura would make me revisit all those pleasantly giddy sensations. “We’ve been dreaming about a new performance-focused Acura concept car since the Precision Concept debuted,” said Dave Marek, Acura’s Executive Creative Director. “The Type S Concept speaks unambiguously to performance and to the essence of Acura design.”
The newest elements are the jewel-eye headlights, an open-surface diamond pentagon grille (minus the beak, of course), and what Acura calls “Chicane” daytime running lights and taillights. It’s interesting to point out how the lights were inspired by Acura’s ARX-05 Daytona Prototype race car. Told ya’ the Type S Concept has a genuine racing pedigree, didn’t I?
The Acura Type S Concept was conceived by the Acura Design Studio in California. Photo: Acura.
The Really Juicy Bits
Sorry, the heading is a misnomer since Acura has yet to reveal performance figures for the Type S Concept. Since it’s a free country, let me tell you what’s probably in store before the real car arrives next year as a 2021 model.
From the looks of it, the future Type S receives a turbocharged V6 motor, and we reckon twin-turbocharging should do the job quite well. Acura says the Type S comes with Brembo brakes, 285-series summer tires (which hints at a summer release date), and quad exhaust tips. The rear spoiler, side sills, front and rear splitters, and those 21-inch wheels benefit from a forged carbon construction.
By forged carbon, Acura means they bond layers of carbon on top of one another. This exceeds the strength of traditional interwoven carbon, according to Acura.
Letting Those Colors Fly
We also like the Double Apex Blue Pearl finish, a much-needed sigh of relief from all the bright orange cars and crossovers we’re seeing these days. Acura claims the paint employs Nano pigments and a color-infused clear coat which means it isn’t clear at all. Although, it does give the paint a different type of brilliance. Acura is already doing this for the 2020 TLX.
Allow me to blurt out two queries still lingering in my head. First, why did Acura take so long? Second, is the Type S the resurgence of hardcore sport sedans? We’ll have to wait and see.
Alvin Reyes is the Associate Editor of Automoblog. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.
Acura Type S Concept Gallery

Photos & Source: Acura.

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2017 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid & Electric Models Soon To Hit America

How does Hyundai continue to do this? It seems like they roll out new models, or upgraded current models, the way Old Navy rolls out t-shirts. Most car manufacturers work on a product cycle ranging over multiple years between refreshes, let alone new models. Hyundai recently announced the new 2017 Ioniq hybrid and electric models will be in dealer showrooms soon.

Hyundai, and in all fairness, their fellow countrymen Kia, have a turn around time like a ballerina from the Kirov. Others, when confronted with a game-changer like a Tesla Model S or a Toyota Prius, took forever to respond.

Hyundai just seemed to shrug and say, “okay, we can do that.” And they did.

Eco Minded, Safety Oriented

What Hyundai did with their Ioniq models really starts with three eco-focused electrified powertrains. The Ioniq offers a smooth, aerodynamic silhouette with an impressive 0.24 coefficient drag. Hyundai says that low figure is all down to careful surface design, and not little aero tricks like underbody work or movable flip-ups and the like.

On the inside, the Ioniq has all the bells and whistles buyers want, or car manufacturers believe we want. You get all of your connectivity features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Blue Link, and even wireless charging for your smartphone. There’s a 7-inch TFT instrument cluster that displays all important driver info. You also get all the latest safety gee-gaws like Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

Yes, we should really be paying more attention, but no, we never seem to, hence you get stuff like this.

It’s under the hood where things are most interesting, drivetrain tech-wise.

“Developed for high energy efficiency without compromising driving performance, every Ioniq powertrain represents a unique and uncompromising solution towards a cleaner means of mobility,” reads a Hyundai Press Release. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.

Engine & Transmission Tech

The Ioniq Hybrid and Plugin Hybrid models both feature a new, Kappa 1.6L direct-injected, Atkinson-cycle four cylinder engine as the main motivator. The Atkinson-cycle helps the plant get a remarkable thermal efficiency of 40 percent. The engine puts out 104 horsepower and 109 lb-ft. of torque, which is not bad.

In the Ioniq, the Kappa plant has been shaped for its hybrid application and is combined with a quick-shifting, six speed double-clutch transmission known as the EcoShift. The transmission makes use of low-friction bearings and low-viscosity oil.

The electric motor is said to operate at speeds up to 75 mph and is tweaked to deliver lots of low end torque. That electric motor supplies 32 kW (43 horsepower) with a maximum torque output of 125 lb-ft. Power comes from a lithium-ion polymer battery with a 1.56 kWh capacity. The battery pack is located under the rear passenger seat, which helps with weight distribution.

Hyundai uses a lithium-ion polymer battery pack for all Ioniq models which is 20 percent lighter than non-polymer lithium-ion batteries and can be shaped more optimally to the interior than standard cell format batteries. This also provides lower memory sensitivity, excellent charge and discharge efficiency, and outstanding maximum output. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.

Long Ranges

So if you add up all the power plants, you get a total system output of 139 horsepower with an impressive EPA-estimated 58 mpg combined rating. Hyundai says that’s the highest rating of any non-plug-in vehicle sold in the United States. The Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid delivers an all-electric range of more than 27 miles, says Hyundai, which is good enough for short trips to grocery store and the like.

If you want to opt for the all electric Ioniq model with the 28 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery, your estimated driving range will be 124 miles. In the Ioniq Electric, the motor has a maximum output of 88 kW (118 horsepower) and 218 lb-ft. of torque. As far as efficiency goes, the Ioniq Electric has an EPA-estimated 136 MPGe rating. Hyundai says that’s the highest efficiency rating of any electric vehicle sold on the U.S. market, which probably bugs Elon Musk to no end.

Hyundai did not specify any prices, but c’mon. If Hyundais are known for anything, it’s not being overpriced. Ioniq owners will eventually receive welcome kits explaining the benefits, location, and use of the ChargePoint network, which is accessible through the MyHyundai/Blue Link app.

Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.

Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor America.

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2017 Kia Niro Hybrid Touring Review

The all-new 2017 Kia Niro Hybrid stacks up against some pretty stiff competition in the hybrid crossover segment. The small crossover competes against the number one selling Toyota Prius, popular Ford C-Max Hybrid wagon, and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

However, it’s got a lot of appeal for crossover shoppers with its stylish exterior design, fuel-sipping drivetrain, and crossover utility.

This week we drove the 2017 Kia Niro Hybrid Touring, the top trim level.

What’s New

The 2017 Niro is an all-new model in the Kia lineup. The well-equipped Touring offers up a host of modern comfort features for consumers.

Features & Options

The Touring trim ($29,650) comes standard with 18-inch wheels, front and rear parking sensors, black front grille trim, a sunroof, door scuff plates, driver’s seat memory settings, ventilated and heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Other creature comforts include leather upholstery, a larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, HD and satellite radio, an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and LED interior lights.

Options on our Touring tester included the Advanced Tech Package ($1,900) with active safety systems like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning. It also came with a 115 volt inverter and wireless phone charger.

Total MSRP including destination: $32,840.

Interior Highlights

The first thing we noticed upon getting this Niro Touring tester was the ease of entry. The Niro sits up a bit higher and getting in and out is easier than many small crossovers. My 6’ 8” passenger this week commented on the abundant headroom, a plus for taller drivers. As is typical for this price point, there’s still some hard surfaces that cover the doors, dash, and center console areas.

There are soft-touch surfaces on the upper parts of the dash and armrests, however.

The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and power driver’s seat have two-way lumbar and height adjustments that made it easy to find the perfect driving position. We put a lot of miles on our Niro but never felt tired or fatigued after longer trips.

In the back, there’s ample head and legroom, but there was no room behind my tall passenger when he moved the seat back to accommodate his 6’ 8” frame. Still, the rear seats split 60/40 and fold perfectly flat for a nice load floor. We had to load nine long boxes this week, and the small crossover had enough room for the extra cargo. There’s 19.4 cubic feet with all seats in place and 54.5 cubes when folded flat.

The rear hatch makes it convenient to load groceries and the kid’s sports equipment.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs

The 2017 Kia Niro is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid-electric powertrain, producing 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft. of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission in lieu of the more conventional, continuously variable transmission (CVT) like we see on most small crossovers.

Unfortunately, all-wheel drive is not available.

EPA-estimates are 46/40 city/highway and 43 combined mpg.

Driving Dynamics

The 2017 Kia Niro delivers a satisfying driving experience in the city and on the open road. We experienced a fair amount of both this week as we traveled the city streets of Denver, and on the open road between Denver and Colorado Springs. The Niro is an ideal size vehicle for navigating busy streets as we made multiple U-turns, and had to cut across lanes of traffic to catch our exit.

On the open highway, there was a bit of road noise as we traveled 75 mph (yes that’s the speed limit) on the way to Colorado Springs. We especially enjoyed the Smart Cruise Control that not only keeps you at a constant speed, but will slow you down if you approach another car. It then gets the vehicle back up to your set speed when the traffic flow gets back to normal. It does all this without you ever touching the brake or gas pedal.

The Niro stayed planted in the tight mountain curves, thanks to a lower center of gravity because the batteries are mounted beneath the rear passenger seat. We thought the Niro handled more like a car than a crossover. With the six-speed automatic transmission, shifts come quick and smooth, providing a more pleasant driving experience when compared to a CVT automatic.

Conclusion

Overall, the new 2017 Kia Niro is a good city commuter, and should be a vehicle families check out. It gets excellent fuel mileage, has ample head and legroom for taller drivers, and it has the utility of a hatchback. It’s a pleasant ride at high cruising speeds or in stop-and-go city traffic.

Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy

2017 Kia Niro Gallery

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2017 Kia Niro Official Site

Photo: Kia Motors America

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Letter From The UK: Winds Of Change

Have you ever seen a plastic bag caught in swirling gusts of wind? It flies this way and that, never knowing where it will go and where it will come to rest when the wind drops.

That’s Europe, that is; right now.

Winds of change are blowing across the bleak political landscape that could affect the car industry and life in general for Great Britain.

Goodbye General Motors

It won’t have escaped your attention that General Motors is considering selling its loss-making European operation to the French PSA Group, which builds Citroen and Peugeot vehicles. This could have repercussions for the Vauxhall brand in the UK (badged as Opel on continental Europe). This is of sufficient concern for the British Prime Minister, Theresa May, to meet up with the Peugeot boss, Carlos Tavares, to discuss the potential issues, of which could mean job losses.

GM has two motor plants here, at Ellesmere Port and Luton, plus sundry ancillaries. They build, among others, the popular if unexciting Corsa and Astra models which regularly feature in the UK automotive top ten. No doubt Mr. Tavares will make the usual positive noises but, as in any industry, can PSA ultimately be trusted?

It has always been very clear that when a sale or takeover of this magnitude happens there will always be an element of what is euphemistically described as “rationalization.” You can bet your bottom dollar when that word is used, then someone, somewhere is going down. In this case the ax will certainly fall on the necks of British workers. The PSA Group is very unlikely to expose its own workers to the inevitable.

Your average French car worker can get very testy, I hear, when their job is threatened.

Vauxhall Ellesmere Port facility. Photo: Opel Pressroom Europe.

Brexit. Again.

Since the British voted to leave the EU last year, there has been a further rise of Europe’s populist movements that are on the cusp of sweeping far-right, nationalist, and euro-skeptic parties into power across the continent in a series of upcoming elections. Political groups of this type, like our very own United Kingdom Independence Party, were once seen as buffoons; a joke. Well, Europe’s smug elite are not laughing now. Once consigned to the fringes of the political scene, these parties now hold considerable sway, arguably enhanced by President Trump’s notorious victory.

UKIP’s former leader Nigel Farage – a friend of the American President – has handed over the leadership reins to a man who makes Cletus Spuckler seem like a dangerous intellectual; yet they are within a gnat’s whisker of winning another seat in the UK parliament.

In the Netherlands, a certain Geert Wilders with his Tarzan-like hair seems very likely to carry his far-right party to victory in the soon to be held Dutch elections. Similarly, Marine Le Pen of the French Front National is within an outside chance of becoming President soon. It is my contention the Euro-federalists have brought it upon themselves. Never has the running of the European Union seemed so remote. The British people see unelected, often self-important people calling the shots and they don’t like it.

Voters tend, in general, to see things in black and white. That’s why the UK voted “out.” It may not prove to be a rational decision but the plain fact is that as things stand, the voters just didn’t like the smell emanating from Brussels. This same sense of being talked down to by the political elite could explain the rise of your President.

The turmoil is sure to continue.

Winds Of Change

This turmoil is highly likely to affect the car industry and not just in Europe. In the United States, your President’s proto-protectionist policies are already having an unsettling effect on foreign car makers. American manufacturers are bringing jobs back to the States and the United Auto Workers, so we hear, are planning an advertisement to get U.S. car customers to “Buy American.”

That does not bode well for the much-vaunted global car industry.

Meanwhile, back here in blighted Britain – that running sore on the nose of European integration – we await the verdict on the GM fire-sale. With the British Government planning to signal our official leaving of the European Union in March, there are still stormy seas ahead for the UK car industry.

Already car prices in Britain have risen by over five percent since that fatal vote, thanks to a weak currency and other Brexit woes. Even if the Vauxhall factories continue production in some form or another, will their exports be subject to tariffs on the European border just a few scant miles across the English channel? Will our tit-for-tat tariffs have a similar effect on Euro car makers?

If this turmoil does adversely affect the European car industry and the PSA Group hits rough waters, who are they going to put in the lifeboats first? It won’t be the neighbors, it will be their own family, that’s for damn sure. Call me paranoid but I think this wind of change is an ill one and, like President Trump’s hair in a gale, the outcome won’t be pretty.

Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite

Cover Photo: Foto-RaBe

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