Automotive

2018 Ford Mustang GT Review: One Quick Pony!

2018 Ford Mustang GT Review: One Quick Pony! The 2018 Ford Mustang GT gets a significant refresh. The upgrades, like a re-tuned suspension, plus newly available adaptive suspension dampers, improve ride quality. And there’s more power for the coupe’s 5.0-liter V8, which will make it more enticing for performance enthusiasts.
This weekend, we drove the 2018 Ford Mustang GT Premium.
What’s New For 2018
The 2018 Ford Mustang gets revised front and rear styling and newly available adaptive suspension dampers.
Features & Options
The 2018 Ford Mustang GT Premium ($39,095) is the model for performance enthusiasts! It comes standard with the 5.0-liter V8, a six-speed manual gearbox, leather upholstery, power front seats, and a nine-speaker audio system. Additional features include dual-zone automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an eight-inch touchscreen with the Sync 3 infotainment system.
The Performance package ($3,995) includes larger brakes, 19-inch wheels and summer tires, a shorter differential ratio, bigger radiator, stiffer front springs, and a larger rear stabilizer bar. This package also allows the new-for-2018, MagneRide adaptive suspension dampers ($1,695).
Other optional but notable features include the digital gauge clusters, navigation system, Recaro front sport seats, a 12-speaker sound system, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
Total MSRP including destination: $53,160. By comparison, starting MSRP for the 2018 Ford Mustang is $25,680.
2018 Ford Mustang GT in Ruby Red with the Black Accent Package.
The center stack is attractive and there are chrome accents throughout the cabin. Click To TweetInterior Highlights
The Recaro bucket seats are a must with the 5.0-liter V8, as they keep you firmly planted in this high-performance coupe. They are comfortable around town and were extra-supportive in the tight mountain curves we powered through over the weekend. And there’s a wide range of adjustments, so even tall drivers have enough room.
The center stack is attractive and there are chrome accents throughout the cabin. The GT Premium model features sweet toggle switches with a background looking like machined aluminum. The radio and climate controls are even easy to operate. There are a fair amount of hard plastics, however, which takes away from the interior quality.
The rear seating is only useful for kids and adults who need to ride for a short trip. The Mustang is a 2+2, so rear legroom is seriously limited. At just 29 inches, it’s less than the Camaro. But the two slim seats are supportive, as occupants sink in. Climbing in and out is a challenge without hitting your head on the roofline, although it’s easier than the Camaro which has even less headroom.
The Mustang’s trunk offers up a decent 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, but the optional Shaker stereo ($895) includes a trunk-mounted subwoofer that limits the usable space.
2018 Ford Mustang GT interior layout.
When you start up the 2018 Ford Mustang GT, you hear the V8 come to life! The performance exhaust has an unmistakable throaty rumble that will wake the neighbors. Click To TweetEngine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2018 Ford Mustang GT comes powered by a sweet 5.0-liter V8, producing 460 horsepower and 420 lb-ft. of torque. The power plant was revised for 2018 with the implementation of direct and port injection. The GT’s six-speed manual gearbox gets revised gearing this year too.
EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 15/25 city/highway and 18 combined mpg. That is, if you can keep your foot out of the gas pedal.
Driving Dynamics
When you start up the 2018 Ford Mustang GT, you hear the V8 come to life! The performance exhaust has an unmistakable throaty rumble that will wake the neighbors. Ford says the GT can accelerate to 60 in less than four seconds, a stunning performance claim we can attest to. The active exhaust system made us giddy as we turned up the volume from almost silent, to the deep bass of a V8 rumble, to a menacing bellow.
If you want to do flawless burnouts (at the track of course), Ford offers an electronic line lock as standard equipment.
Our 2018 Ford Mustang GT had both the Performance Package and MagneRide Suspension, features that improve agility and driving dynamics. By switching to Sport mode, the dampers stiffen to produce handling that’s sharp and steady even on rough roads. When the dampers are set to their softest mode, and the exhaust system to its quietest tuning, the Mustang feels like a mild-mannered sedan.
But who would want to do that?
The performance exhaust has an unmistakable throaty rumble that will wake the neighbors.Click To TweetConclusion
For sportiness and driving fun, the 2018 Ford Mustang GT Premium with the 5.0-liter V8 and six-speed manual is a must for performance enthusiasts. However, the Mustang offers solid performance for the dollar in any trim level.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Ford Mustang GT Gallery

2018 Ford Mustang Official Site.
Photos: Ford Motor Company.

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Lotus Evora GT410 Sport Emerges From Hethel

Lotus Evora GT410 Sport Emerges From Hethel So speaketh Lotus: “Relentless in its development of world-class sports cars, Lotus has unveiled the new Evora GT410 Sport to complete the revised line-up of Hethel’s fastest model.” And all I can say is I really hope this completes the “revised line-up,” because over the paste while I have written articles on nine “new” Lotus models. I love these cars, I really do, but this whole “another month, another sort of new Lotus” thing is starting to get tiring.
Fitting In
In some ways, the Evora GT410 Sport is like the Evora GT430, only with less power, a bit more comfort, and a lot of aero and carbon fiber tweaks. The Evora GT410 Sport is available in both 2 seat and 2+2 configurations, and I’m sure both are fine. But if you buy the 2+2, you better have good reasons. The Evora GT410 Sport comes with either a manual or an automatic transmission, but don’t fret about that auto-box – everyone says it’s quite good. Overall, the new Evora GT410 Sport will be the replacement for the Evora Sport 410.
The revised front panel features two enlarged carbon fiber ducts and integrated air blades to move air around the front wheels. This reduces turbulence and decreases drag. Photo: Group Lotus plc.
Power & Performance
Body-wise the GT410 Sport has new, specifically-designed composite front and rear body panels, sans some of the high downforce elements found on other Evoras. Lotus says it has a far subtler and sleeker silhouette. Even though some aero bits are missing, the GT410 Sport still generates 50 percent more downforce than the Evora Sport 410 for a total of 96kg of downforce.
The Evora GT410 Sport is motorized by a specially-tuned, higher-output version of Lotus’ supercharged, 3.5-liter 6-cylinder engine, complete with a water-to-air charge cooler. It goes without mentioning, but I’ll mention it anyway: this 3.5-liter 6-cylinder plant comes from Toyota, so do not worry about engine reliability, that is a thing of the past. Said mill cranks out 410 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 310 lb-ft. of torque from 3,500 rpm. This engine, combined with the company’s fixation for low weight, launches the GT410 Sport to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds with the automatic box. The manual version puts in a time of four seconds. See, that auto ain’t such a bad idea, is it?
Light & Tight
Speaking of the Hethel-based company’s undying love of making things as light as possible, developing the Evora GT410 Sport gave Lotus opportunities to optimize mass and weight. The bottom line turns up at an unladen weight of 2,860 lbs. If you decide to go with the optional titanium exhaust and the Lotus-tuned Öhlins TTX aluminum two-way adjustable dampers, you can shave off another 216 lbs. compared to the plain Jane Evora 400.
Photo: Group Lotus plc.
Careful Considerations
Would I buy the new Evora GT410 Sport? Of course I would! I just wish Lotus would stop messing around with having umpteen models of only slight difference from one step to the next. It’s sort of reminiscent of JDM car versions whose main differentiation from one trim level to the next are things like sway bar bushings. Lotus, you guys have made a name for yourself by making cars simple and light. Please apply that philosophy to your model lineup.
The Lotus Evora GT410 Sport can be ordered now in European and Asia Pacific markets. Availability for China and the United States is expected this summer.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format.
Lotus Evora GT410 Sport Gallery

Photos & Source: Group Lotus plc.

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2019 Ford Edge ST: The SUV Time Machine

2019 Ford Edge ST: The SUV Time Machine Throughout the year at Sioux Falls Ford, we received training on new vehicles before Ford released them. A specialist from Dearborn would arrive in the morning, with said vehicle, and put us sales guys through a day-long session of training and test driving. We learned everything about the forthcoming vehicle so we were prepared to answer any questions future customers might have.
Those were the good old days.
Showroom Shine
Looking back, a few vehicles from those training sessions really stood out: The 2010 Raptor with its suspension, the 2011 F-150 with its EcoBoost engines, and the 2010 Edge Sport with its 22-inch wheels. After training on the Edge that day, we held a public test drive event in the evening. Upper management invited many of our customers in for a chance to see and drive the Edge Sport. We took a few orders that night and enjoyed showing our customers this slick, new vehicle we received training on earlier in the day.
The next morning, I was on first shift, meaning I was usually at my desk by 7:45 before we opened at 8:00. As I was unpacking my things for the day, I glanced across the showroom and caught the morning sun bouncing off the Sport Blue Metallic paint and 22-inch chrome wheels. Since it was a demo vehicle for training, that particular Edge Sport was due to leave us, but for the time being, it was the perfect compliment to the Shelby Mustang sitting only a few feet away.
I get similar vibes from the 2019 Edge ST, Ford’s first SUV to be tuned by Ford Performance.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Power & Performance
The Edge ST features a specially-tuned 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine, pumping out 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic Ford notes as “quick-shifting.” Toggle over to Sport Mode and the Edge ST is suddenly more aggressive, holding gears up to the redline and resonating the exhaust notes a little further. All-wheel drive, a sport-tuned suspension, and an available performance braking package give the Edge ST a little extra “edge” on the road.
Exterior Styling
Just like the 2010 Edge Sport, the 2019 Edge ST catches the eye with its mesh grille, side skirts, redesigned hood, and dual exhaust ports. To enhance curb appeal, 21-inch wheels are available, while LED headlamps are standard.
Interior Design
Edge ST drivers will enjoy seats that offer additional bolstering, especially on longer trips. The center console is redesigned and the rotary gearshift dial reduces clutter and frees up space. The wireless charging pad, built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, and Sync 3 are nice upgrades for those who like having the latest tech. Music lovers will enjoy the available 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Safety & Security
The Edge ST features an array of advanced safety systems, two of which really stand out. Post Collision Braking reduces the likelihood of secondary impacts by applying moderate brake pressure when an initial collision is detected. Evasive Steering Assist, designed to operate at city and highway speeds, uses radar and a camera to detect slower-moving and stationary vehicles. Once detected, steering support is provided to help maneuver around a vehicle if a collision is imminent.
Manufacturing & Availability
The 2019 Ford Edge ST will be built at the Oakville Assembly Plant in Oakville, Ontario, Canada. Expect to see the Edge ST at Ford dealerships this summer.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.

Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.

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Big Reveals Scheduled For NAIAS In Detroit

Big Reveals Scheduled For NAIAS In Detroit The North American International Auto Show, held in Detroit, Michigan, is the most significant auto show in the world. Last year at the Cobo Center, there were 50 OEMs present, 42 press conferences, and over 70 vehicle introductions. 5,000 journalists and other media professionals packed the halls for Press Preview, with nearly 13,000 attending the Charity Preview event. The economic impact of NAIAS on metro Detroit, according to Loomis Sayles & Company, is an estimated $450 million.
Big Reveals
Casual car enthusiasts and career automotive professionals can appreciate the sea of iron that decorates the Cobo Center every January. Press Preview (January 15th and 16th) is where a lot of the action happens with regard to vehicle reveals. Here is a partial list of who is going to be in the house and what they will be revealing. All times are Eastern.
Acura
The third-generation Acura RDX Prototype will make its world debut on January 15th at 11:05 a.m. The reveal will showcase a new direction for Acura; this RDX Prototype is the first in a new generation of products, according to the automaker. The RDX will ride on an Acura-exclusive platform centered on two design mantras, Precision Concept and Precision Cockpit. The first is about sleek styling and strong body lines; the latter is concerned with making the interior functional and clean.
Audi
The 2019 Audi A7 will see its global debut in Detroit at NAIAS. The automaker has rolled out a healthy number of products for the U.S. market in recent times. The new A7 is said to join its brethren with refined driving dynamics and an emphasis on functionality, design, and technology.
Photo: Audi of America.

BMW
The X2 and i8 Coupe will make their world debuts on Monday, January 15th at 9:35 a.m. The X2 is said to have “fast-moving body language, low-slung proportions, and a robust construction.” A 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic motivate the X2, expected to arrive in dealerships this spring. BMW will also have an array of electrified vehicles on display.
Hyundai
Hyundai is unveiling the 2019 Veloster and aside from that, no other details have been released. Hyundai’s press conference is set for Monday, January 15th at 12:05 p.m.
Infiniti
The Q Inspiration Concept will take center stage on Monday, January 15th at 12:35 p.m. Karim Habib, Infiniti’s Executive Design Director, says they pushed the traditional sedan architecture to the next level.
Photo: Q Inspiration Concept.

Jeep

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee will see its world debut on Tuesday, January 16th. Details are slim right now, but Jeep says the new Cherokee will have a more premium design and more fuel-efficient powertrains. Jeep starts their press event at 8 a.m. on the 16th, with breakfast for credentialed media.

Kia
Ahead its debut, Kia released renderings of the all-new 2019 Forte sedan. Based on the images, the third-generation Forte looks athletic and sleek. And do we see design elements borrowed from the Stinger? Kia’s press conference is scheduled for Monday, January 15th at 11.35 a.m.
Photo: Kia Motors America.
Toyota
Toyota will premiere the all-new 2019 Avalon on Monday, January 15th at 1:05 p.m. No additional details were given and the teaser photo only showed a glimpse of the headlights.

Volkswagen
There are even fewer details here, just that VW will debut the 2019 Jetta. They did release these cool sketches, however. VW’s press conference is set for Monday, January 15th at 10:05 a.m.

Big Events
In addition to the vehicle reveals, NAIAS has plenty of opportunities for further education, networking, and just plain fun. Here are some of the other happenings.
Charity Preview – January 19th
A night of fine dining, good causes, and enjoyment, Charity Preview is one of the most exclusive events in the United States. Since 1976, Charity Preview has raised more than $111 million for children’s charities in southeastern Michigan, $41 million of which was raised in the last 10 years. Tickets are $400 per person, $390 of which is tax deductible.
Industry Preview / AutoMobili-D (January 17th and 18th)
Industry Preview places nearly 40,000 automotive professionals and analysts from over 2,200 companies under one roof. It’s a networking and professional development opportunity with the individuals behind many of today’s most innovative technologies and products. Complementing Industry Preview is AutoMobili-D, a gathering of the latest mobility-focused platforms from the world’s automakers, suppliers, and startups. AutoMobili-D examines the connected car, autonomous driving, and how smart cites play a role in our future.
Public Show
NAIAS runs January 20th through 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. This year at NAIAS, a photo contest is being held with the top prize being Bose SoundSport wireless headphones. If you take any cool photos, share them with us on our Twitter page.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Photos & Sources: North American International Auto Show, Acura, Audi of America, BMW of North America, LLC, FCA US LLC, Hyundai Motor America, Infiniti Motor Company Ltd, Kia Motors America, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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2018 Nissan Rogue Sport: Pricing & Package Overview

2018 Nissan Rogue Sport: Pricing & Package Overview The Nissan Rogue is Yokohama’s number one selling model in America. Nissan says the Rogue is “right-sized” and that the Rogue Sport both fits that description and comes with lots of tech and safety goodies for a modest price. Although nobody is going to mistake it for a serious off-roader, the 5-passenger Rogue Sport is designed for “everyday urban adventures”
The prices were just released for the 2018 models, and they’re still right in the middle of the “I can afford that” target.
Making The Grade
The Rogue Sport, which is already on dealer lots as you read this, joined the Nissan crossover and SUV lineup at the end of 2017. It arrives for 2018 with a few nips and tucks and tweaks and improvements, so think of this as more of a refinement process than a radical re-do. The Rogue Sport still comes in front-wheel and all-wheel drive and has three grade levels: S, SV, and SL.
SV Technology Package
The SV Technology Package is new for 2018, although more or less the same stuff could be had in the previously available SV Premium Package. The SV Technology Package now includes all the stuff from the proir SV All-Weather Package as well: gizmos like heated seats, remote start, Intelligent Climate Control, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, fog lights, leather-wrapped shift knob, and heated outside mirrors. Sounds like a handy package for a lot of this country in the winter.
SL Premium Package
In addition, the SL Premium Package now includes the all tidbits of the previous SL Platinum Package. So your 2018 Nissan Rogue SL Premium Package comes with Intelligent Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Intelligent Lane Intervention, and Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection. The list of available technology in general reads like a delivery invoice at a Best Buy store: RearView Monitor, Siri Eyes Free, NissanConnect with Navigation and Mobile Apps, seven-inch color touchscreen display, and a USB connection port among others.
Power & Performance
On the drivetrain front, the Nissan Rogue Sport is motivated by a 141 horsepower, 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder. The engine is mated to an Xtronic transmission with an Eco Mode switch. The whole ride is underpinned by a four-wheel independent suspension.
Proper Considerations
All of this is aimed right at the Rogue’s target market of younger, urban buyers that want a slightly smaller, sportier, and more affordable crossover. Nissan feels these buyers are looking for more space than a compact sedan, but still want maneuverability and a “fun-to-drive feel.” Here’s a look at the models and drivetrains and their not at all unreasonable costs:
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.
Rogue Sport S FWD
$21,640 MSRP
Rogue Sport SV FWD
$23,240 MSRP
Rogue Sport SL FWD
$26,290 MSRP
Rogue Sport S AWD
$22,990 MSRP
Rogue Sport SV AWD
$24,590 MSRP
Rogue Sport SL AWD
$27,640 MSRP
Photos & Source: Nissan North America.

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GM Says Goodbye To More Than Steering Wheels In New Self-Driving Report

GM Says Goodbye To More Than Steering Wheels In New Self-Driving Report
General Motors has filed a Safety Petition with the Department of Transportation for its fourth-generation self-driving Cruise AV. The petition says the Cruise AV would be the first production-ready vehicle to operate safely with no driver, steering wheel, pedals, or manual controls when it hits the road next year. Such vehicles are classified as Level 5 automation by the Society of Automotive Engineers, meaning the car itself can perform all the necessary tasks that constitute driving.
But still. No steering wheel?
Safe & Clean
Like many proponents of automated driving, GM wants a world where self-driving vehicles either significantly reduce or eliminate fatal car crashes. On a similar note, many autonomous driving advocates also support electrification. It’s not a random happening that autonomous cars are proposed on and engineered into hybrid and electric platforms. The idea is if we can make a safer society, why not a cleaner one as well.
GM recently published their 2018 Self-Driving Safety Report which details this initiative. The report states each year close to 1.25 million people die in car crashes around the world, 40,000 in the United States alone. Human error is a factor in 94 percent of these crashes. With regard to emissions, GM says vehicles today release almost 2 billion tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere every year.
Powerful Partnerships

GM takes a “together we can” approach, saying the promises of autonomy can only happen when places like Silicon Valley and Detroit come together. Indeed, my work and vantage point in the automotive industry supports this. From a high level perspective, Silicon Valley has the software and programming expertise; here in Detroit, we have the industrial manufacturing experience that allows us to physically produce the automated car.
We also have the Red Wings. That has nothing to do with autonomous cars. I just like the Red Wings.
GM believes at the core of this partnership is safety. The automaker’s System Safety program, detailed in the report, pulls experiences and disciplines from other fields, including aerospace, pharmaceutical, and the military. The Cruise AV takes inspiration from fighter planes and deep-space satellites, using elements from both to help safely implement its autonomous capabilities.
This past June, GM produced 130 self-driving Chevy Bolt EV test vehicles. The fleets were equipped with GM’s latest autonomous technology, and joined more than 50 other Bolt EV test vehicles already in use. Photo: General Motors.
Deep Principles
The 2018 Self-Driving Safety Report is like that supplemental textbook for a given college course. Even though GM-specific, it gives a solid overview on how autonomous cars come together. It shows how the Cruise AV is engineered, how the car’s “brain” functions, and how the physical components, from LiDAR to radar operate. Some may enjoy the sections on how GM utilizes Comprehensive Risk Management and Deep Integration in the interest of safety.
“Throughout the design, development and testing processes, our Comprehensive Risk Management approach thoroughly identifies and addresses risks, and validates solutions to address them,” the report reads.
Further Education
AutoSens, a global summit on automated driving, is returning to Detroit in May. The conference provides a place for engineers, researchers, and other industry professionals to address the challenges and opportunities associated with autonomous driving. What is discussed in the 2018 Self-Driving Safety Report is examined at AutoSens, which is why, although GM-specific, it’s a good read for those wanting to know more about autonomous driving.
You can find GM’s report in PDF format here.
Read it if you want something to do this weekend. Or you can wait until cars drive themselves and read it on the way to work. You can put your feet up on the dash while you do. No steering wheel in the way.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Photos & Source: General Motors.

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2018 Buick Enclave Premium AWD Review

2018 Buick Enclave Premium AWD Review

Buick’s largest premium crossover gets new upgrades for 2018. The second-generation Enclave raises the bar in the styling and technology departments, and is slightly longer than last year with additional legroom for rear passengers. We’ll see why it’s an appealing choice for a luxury three-row crossover SUV.
This week, we’ve been driving the 2018 Buick Enclave Premium AWD.
What’s New For 2018
The Buick Enclave gets a full redesign for 2018. In addition to a sizable list of improvements, Buick has introduced a new, top-of-the-line Avenir version. The Enclave’s wheelbase has grown, the roofline is lower, and the windshield is more angled. Vehicle weight has dropped and the use of LED lighting has increased.
Features & Options
The 2018 Buick Enclave Premium AWD ($50,315) comes standard with LED headlights, a power hands-free tailgate, keyless ignition, pushbutton start, heated power front seats, three-zone automatic climate control, and 18-inch wheels. The eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Premium trims get perforated leather seat upholstery, lane-change alert, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Premium trims also come standard with a 10-speaker Bose audio system, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, front/rear parking sensors, power third-row seats, and forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking.
Options on this Premium tester included the dual front and rear moonroof ($1,400), 20-inch aluminum wheels ($1,400), rear camera mirror ($825), White Frost Tricoat paint ($995), Trailering Equipment ($650), and an HD Cooling System ($495). Total MSRP including destination: $57,055.

Interior Highlights
Elegant yet subtle is how we would describe the interior, featuring a rich cockpit that blends technology with tastefulness. The cabin’s fit and finish excels and offers impressive comfort. We like especially like the upgraded perforated leather, the heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row seats. The electronic instruments and display screens appear in an expressive sweep across the dashboard, giving it a contemporary feel. We think Buick’s IntelliLink is among the most user-friendly infotainment interfaces, unlike many other luxury crossovers on the market.
We found the first and second rows had plenty of room for adults with good head clearance and leg space. Power front seats are supportive and comparatively firm. Out back, second-row bucket seats slide fore/aft to expand either leg or cargo space. The optional dual-pane sunroof even offered sizable headroom for taller passengers.
Out back, the Enclave’s second-row captain’s chairs pivot for easy access to the third row, which provide ample space for even six-foot adults to sit comfortably. The second row is a place you won’t mind spending lots of travel time. Cargo space is also a strong point for Enclave, with 23.6 cubic feet of space behind the third row, growing to 58 cubes with the seat folded away. Cargo capacity reaches up to 97.6 cubic feet when the second-row seat backs are folded down.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Buick Enclave is powered by GM’s latest 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft. of torque. Engine output has grown by 22 horsepower compared to the 2017 model, though torque has declined slightly. It’s mated to a quick-shifting 9-speed automatic. Our Enclave Premium tester came with optional all-wheel drive.
Fuel economy has significantly improved, yet falls behind some competitors. All-wheel drive models get an EPA-estimated 17/25 city/highway and 20 combined.
Driving Dynamics
The moment we got up to highway speed in the Enclave Premium, we noticed the cabin was especially quiet and the ride was smooth despite uneven pavement. The 3.6-liter V6 is strong, accelerates quicker, and has improved driving dynamics over its predecessor.
We especially liked the shift quality of the 9-speed automatic transmission during the mountain driving we did this week. Shifts were smooth and the engine never had to hunt for the right gear. We used the steering wheel paddle shifters along with a semi-manual mode for maximum control and a more sporty driving experience. Overall, the new Enclave has road manners that will satisfy even the pickiest luxury car buyers. The suspension yields a suitable, yet taut and firm ride that feels controlled. Through even the tight mountain corners, there is very little body lean.
Conclusion
The 2018 Buick Enclave is a sassy but luxurious three-row SUV. Its strong engine and satisfying ride further enhance its appeal. The Premium trim offers plenty of luxury and comes with a host of features to keep families feeling comfortable and safe 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 Buick Enclave Gallery

2018 Buick Enclave Official Site.
Photos: Buick.

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Amazon, Nissan Tech Lets Owners Talk To Their Vehicles

Amazon, Nissan Tech Lets Owners Talk To Their Vehicles

The worst feeling in the world is forgetting where you put your keys. You dump out your bag, slap all your pockets, and retrace your steps over and over again. Well, Nissan understands and later this month, some Nissan owners will be able to start their vehicle simply by speaking. Amazon Alexa, powered by NissanConnect Services, adds the new skill to a growing list of over 25,000.
This is the ideal time to utter the phrase, “the future is here.”
Voice Activation
Nissan owners will be able to find the new skill, called “NissanConnect Services,” under the connected car category in the Amazon Skills Store. The new skill is free to use and provides Nissan owners a way to vocally communicate with their vehicle, from locking and unlocking the doors, to honking the horn, flashing the lights, and starting the vehicle. A 4-digit pin will be required to send certain commands, like remote starting.
“Alexa, start my GT-R.” Photo: Nissan North America.
Ownership Experience
This approach comes from Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility initiative, which is meant to enhance the relationship between driver and vehicle. For example, owners can even name their Nissan.
“Intelligent integration means helping our customers even when they are not behind the wheel,” explained Dan Teeter, Director, Vehicle Connected Services, Nissan North America, Inc. “We are about bringing unexpected innovations to customers, and are excited to offer this technology to both existing and new Nissan owners.”
The services will be available on vehicles equipped with NissanConnect Services, an on-board telematics system. Amazon’s Alexa integration will require owners to have an active subscription to NissanConnect Services and a Nissan Owner Portal account, although the NissanConnect Services app does not need to be running to use the service. Once linked to a Nissan Owners Portal account with a compatible Nissan vehicle, owners can then utilize the voice commands.
We have included a chart below showing which Nissan vehicles are compatible.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Nissan Altima
2016, 2017, 2017.5
Nissan Armada
2018
Nissan GT-R
2017
Nissan Maxima
2016, 2017
Nissan Murano
2016, 2017.5
Nissan Pathfinder
2017, 2018
Nissan Rogue
2016, 2017
Nissan Rogue Sport
2017
Nissan Sentra
2016, 2017
Nissan TITAN
2017
Nissan TITAN XD
2016, 2017
Photos & Source: Nissan North America.

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2018 Acura ILX Arrives, Special Edition Available

2018 Acura ILX Arrives, Special Edition Available

We recently drove the 2018 Acura TLX A-Spec and enjoyed our time behind the wheel. We thought it was comfortable enough for city commuting but snappy enough for the open road. Recently, the 2018 Acura ILX arrived at the dealership and with it, a new Special Edition designation with A-Spec appointments. Acura says the ILX is meant to capture new luxury buyers and serve as a “gateway” to brand’s entire lineup.
Features Galore
Standard equipment on all ILX models includes Acura’s JewelEye LED headlights, an 8-way power driver’s seat, multi-view rearview camera, auto on/off headlights, one-touch power moonroof, a 5-inch Multi-View Display, Bluetooth capability, and push-button start. AcuraWatch, a suite of active safety technologies, is available on all ILX models, but standard when the Tech Plus package is selected.
The ILX Premium trim treats drivers to HD and Aha Radio, an 8-inch upper display, a 7-inch On-Demand Multi-Use Display, and HomeLink among other features.
Photo: Honda North America.
Premium Feel
The ILX A-Spec trims, Premium and Tech Plus, have a decklid spoiler, front fog lights, 18-inch 10-spoke machined alloy wheels, and exterior A-Spec badging in three locations: left and right front fenders and trunk lid. Acura is going for a lot of curb appeal here with this new look.
The interior is decorated with a Premium Black theme that includes perforated Lux Suede seat inserts. Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the instrument panel’s red background, contrasted with the gray interior stitching and aluminum pedals.
Power & Performance
All 2018 Acura ILX models are propelled by a 2.4-liter direct-injected DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder, creating 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft. of torque. A Sequential SportShift 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission with paddle shifters helps disperse the power. Acura says the transmission is both crisp and responsive with “performance and exceptional efficiency at your fingertips.”
Photo: Honda North America.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Acura ILX is available now with a starting MSRP of $28,100. The new Special Edition, by contrast, begins at $28,900. A handy chart showing the trim levels and corresponding prices is below.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Trim
MSRP
EPA MPG Rating (city/highway/combined)
ILX
$28,100
25/35/29
ILX Special Edition
$28,900
25/35/29
ILX AcuraWatch Plus
$29,400
25/35/29
ILX Premium
$30,100
25/35/29
ILX Premium A-Spec
$32,100
25/35/29
ILX Tech Plus
$33,100
25/35/29
ILX Tech Plus A-Spec
$35,100
25/35/29
2018 Acura ILX Gallery

Photos & Source: Honda North America.

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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2018-acura-ilx-arrives-special-edition-available/