2024 Lexus TX350 Luxury AWD
By Larry Rust
The Lexus TX is a new model which arrived in the fall of 2023. There are two seating configurations: a three row seating option with second row captain’s chairs accommodating six passengers or a second row bench seat option which allows for seven passengers. This new model does offer more room in the third seat area for the comfort of adult passengers.
The Luxury AWD is the top of the line of three trim choices for a gas engine with three other choices in available hybrid powertrains. The engine in this model is a 275 hp 2.4L turbocharged inline 4 coupled with an eight speed Direct Automatic Transmission. The estimated fuel consumption is 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and combined number of 23 mpg. I found that acceleration seemed a bit sluggish but adequate and the ride was comfortable and very quiet.
The tires are mounted on attractive 22” x 9” multi-spoke alloy wheels which are a $2,140 option. The rear door is powered with a convenient kick sensor to use when your arms are full of boxes, luggage, or whatever. Of course, there is a panoramic glass roof with roof rails. The Cloudburst Gray paint is a premium paint for an additional $500.
The interior has many features that you would expect on a Luxury SUV. These include a heated, leather trimmed steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, power folding third row seats, a four-way lumber support and cushion extender for the driver seat. The Lexus Memory System encompasses the driver’s seat, steering wheel, outside power folding mirrors and a wireless phone charger. The one feature that I found hard to get used to was the interior door release levers which required tapping or pulling them twice to open the door.
Options added to this TX 350 include both a technology package and a convenience package. The technology package includes a 12.3 in. multi-information display, a panoramic view monitor, a digital rearview monitor and a head-up display of which I am a big fan. The convenience package includes a driver monitor camera (detects driver falling asleep or not paying attention) and front traffic alert. A traffic jam assist and a digital key are included with a three year trial after which it becomes a subscription. These two options add an additional $1,945.
The audio system is a very nice Mark Levinson audio system featuring 21 speakers for a great surround sound adding another $1,160. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included with multiple USB ports and two 12V power outlets in the rear cargo area adding another $1,160.
Safety features are part of Lexus’s Safety System 3.0. Included are a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, road sign assist, lane tracing assist, automatic radar cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and a rear traffic alert warning.
The Lexus TX 350 Luxury would be a great purchase if you are looking for a three row SUV with room having plenty of style, tech, conveniences and safety features. The downside is the MSRP. The vehicle, as tested, is estimated to be $69,814.
The Luxury AWD is the top of the line of three trim choices for a gas engine with three other choices in available hybrid powertrains. The engine in this model is a 275 hp 2.4L turbocharged inline 4 coupled with an eight speed Direct Automatic Transmission. The estimated fuel consumption is 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and combined number of 23 mpg. I found that acceleration seemed a bit sluggish but adequate and the ride was comfortable and very quiet.
The tires are mounted on attractive 22” x 9” multi-spoke alloy wheels which are a $2,140 option. The rear door is powered with a convenient kick sensor to use when your arms are full of boxes, luggage, or whatever. Of course, there is a panoramic glass roof with roof rails. The Cloudburst Gray paint is a premium paint for an additional $500.
The interior has many features that you would expect on a Luxury SUV. These include a heated, leather trimmed steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, power folding third row seats, a four-way lumber support and cushion extender for the driver seat. The Lexus Memory System encompasses the driver’s seat, steering wheel, outside power folding mirrors and a wireless phone charger. The one feature that I found hard to get used to was the interior door release levers which required tapping or pulling them twice to open the door.
Options added to this TX 350 include both a technology package and a convenience package. The technology package includes a 12.3 in. multi-information display, a panoramic view monitor, a digital rearview monitor and a head-up display of which I am a big fan. The convenience package includes a driver monitor camera (detects driver falling asleep or not paying attention) and front traffic alert. A traffic jam assist and a digital key are included with a three year trial after which it becomes a subscription. These two options add an additional $1,945.
The audio system is a very nice Mark Levinson audio system featuring 21 speakers for a great surround sound adding another $1,160. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included with multiple USB ports and two 12V power outlets in the rear cargo area adding another $1,160.
Safety features are part of Lexus’s Safety System 3.0. Included are a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, road sign assist, lane tracing assist, automatic radar cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and a rear traffic alert warning.
The Lexus TX 350 Luxury would be a great purchase if you are looking for a three row SUV with room having plenty of style, tech, conveniences and safety features. The downside is the MSRP. The vehicle, as tested, is estimated to be $69,814.
2023 Mazda CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus AWD
By Larry Rust
The Mazda CX-50 was officially unveiled in late 2021. The CX-50 is wider, longer, and lower than the CX-5 and built on the same platform as the CX-3.
The CX-50 test car driven had the Premium Plus trim package. There are at least seven other trim packages below this level. The test vehicle came with an exterior color of Wind Chill Pearl which is a $395 option. The front of the CX-50 is similar to the CX-5, but with added corner grills and a different lower fascia. The sides show more plastic trim than the CX-5. Nice touches to the exterior are a great looking power panoramic moonroof, heated power folding side mirrors and rain sensing windshield wipers. The 20-in. Black/Alloy wheels added to a sporty look. My opinion of the CX-50 exterior is that the changes made over the CX-5 make it look like an impressive SUV. I don't know if this vehicle will replace the CX-5 which is still offered in Mazda's lineup.
The vehicle tested has a Mazda SkyActiv-G 2.5L twin scroll turbo that produces 256 HP and 320 lb.-ft. of torque. Coupled with that engine is their SkyActive 6-speed automatic transmission. Drive mode selections are normal, sport, and off-road. Fuel economy ratings are 25 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
I found the ride to be firm and the vehicle had great handling characteristics. This SUV can tow up to 3,500 lbs. because of the turbo engine.
The interior of this vehicle looked luxurious with the rich looking two-tone leather trimmed seats. The decorative stitching down the middle of the seats is carried over and implemented on the dash. The many features included in the Premium Plus package are what you would expect in a top of the line SUV: power front seats with ventilation, leather wrapped, heated steering wheel, keyless entry, rear power liftgate and dual zone auto-climate controls. There is a 10.25 in. color info display for audio and navigation, which I found to be easily navigated with the knob at your right hand just below the gear shift.
Rear seat legroom does not seem to be too confining for larger passengers. The rear seat backs are split 60/40 and foldable to increase the rear cargo area. An added plus is the availability of heating for the rear seats.
The audio system includes a Bose 12-speaker surround system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay features. Audio controls are mounted on the steering wheel along with controls for phone and radar cruise control. There are several USB ports both front and rear.
The standard safety and security features included lane departure warning, anti-theft engine immobilizer, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, rear camera, 360 deg. view monitor, dynamic stability control and driver attention alert. Also included in the Premium Plus package is a head-up display with traffic sign recognition.
Warranty is 60 month/60,000 miles for the powertrain and 36 month/ 36,000 miles for bumper to bumper coverage.
The base MSRP for the CX-50 with the Premium Plus Pkg. AWD is $42,300. With the paint upcharge and delivery of $1,275, the MSRP totals out at $43,970.
I believe you will get a comfortable and impressive SUV for this price.
The CX-50 test car driven had the Premium Plus trim package. There are at least seven other trim packages below this level. The test vehicle came with an exterior color of Wind Chill Pearl which is a $395 option. The front of the CX-50 is similar to the CX-5, but with added corner grills and a different lower fascia. The sides show more plastic trim than the CX-5. Nice touches to the exterior are a great looking power panoramic moonroof, heated power folding side mirrors and rain sensing windshield wipers. The 20-in. Black/Alloy wheels added to a sporty look. My opinion of the CX-50 exterior is that the changes made over the CX-5 make it look like an impressive SUV. I don't know if this vehicle will replace the CX-5 which is still offered in Mazda's lineup.
The vehicle tested has a Mazda SkyActiv-G 2.5L twin scroll turbo that produces 256 HP and 320 lb.-ft. of torque. Coupled with that engine is their SkyActive 6-speed automatic transmission. Drive mode selections are normal, sport, and off-road. Fuel economy ratings are 25 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
I found the ride to be firm and the vehicle had great handling characteristics. This SUV can tow up to 3,500 lbs. because of the turbo engine.
The interior of this vehicle looked luxurious with the rich looking two-tone leather trimmed seats. The decorative stitching down the middle of the seats is carried over and implemented on the dash. The many features included in the Premium Plus package are what you would expect in a top of the line SUV: power front seats with ventilation, leather wrapped, heated steering wheel, keyless entry, rear power liftgate and dual zone auto-climate controls. There is a 10.25 in. color info display for audio and navigation, which I found to be easily navigated with the knob at your right hand just below the gear shift.
Rear seat legroom does not seem to be too confining for larger passengers. The rear seat backs are split 60/40 and foldable to increase the rear cargo area. An added plus is the availability of heating for the rear seats.
The audio system includes a Bose 12-speaker surround system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay features. Audio controls are mounted on the steering wheel along with controls for phone and radar cruise control. There are several USB ports both front and rear.
The standard safety and security features included lane departure warning, anti-theft engine immobilizer, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, rear camera, 360 deg. view monitor, dynamic stability control and driver attention alert. Also included in the Premium Plus package is a head-up display with traffic sign recognition.
Warranty is 60 month/60,000 miles for the powertrain and 36 month/ 36,000 miles for bumper to bumper coverage.
The base MSRP for the CX-50 with the Premium Plus Pkg. AWD is $42,300. With the paint upcharge and delivery of $1,275, the MSRP totals out at $43,970.
I believe you will get a comfortable and impressive SUV for this price.
2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD
by Larry Rust
The Mazda CX-9 is a three row, 6 passenger, sport utility vehicle which, in the top Signature Trim level, is full of standard features that competitors add as options. New for 2021 are upgrades to the Infotainment system and a Carbon Trim Edition which increases the choices of trim levels to five.
The CX-9 is sporty looking, accelerates exceptionally well, rides firm, but not stiff, and handles well with its independent front and rear suspension. AWD is standard which came in handy during February's worst snow and cold.
The interior is striking, with comfortable Napa Leather trimmed seats which are heated and ventilated. The heated seats were a plus for my winter test drive. The captain's chairs in the second row are heated only. The steering wheel is heated, as well, but I found it odd that the wheel is only heated on the sides. It would have been nice if it were heated around most of the wheel. The cabin is quiet and well insulated from road and engine noise.
The CX-9 is powered by a four-cylinder 2.5 turbo engine, putting out 227 HP @ 5,000 rpm and 310 Lb-Ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. The transmission is 6-speed automatic, with steering wheel paddle shifters, and an AWD drive train. Fuel economy is 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for a combined 23 mpg.
Particularly nice exterior features are the 20-in. alloy wheels, rain sensing wipers, intermittent rear wiper, and the heated and auto folding side view mirrors. Additional features include a hands-free power rear liftgate, a power moonroof, LED headlights, LED fog and daytime running lights, LED taillights, aluminum roof rails and bright finished exhaust tips.
An interior feature that I particularly liked is the heads-up display. This display, located in the driver's lower field of vision, provides the speed limit, indicators for blind spot intrusion on either side of the vehicle, and lane departure warnings.
Other interior features include power front driver and passenger seats, tilt and telescopic leather steering wheel with audio controls, 3-zone automatic climate control, rear view camera and keyless entry. The center mounted 10.25-in. color display is user friendly and provides information with a console mounted knob that helps to navigate through the screen.
The standard audio is a Bose, AM,FM,HD, 12-speaker system with Bluetooth hands-free phone which has Android Auto and Apple Carplay capability.
Many safety features are standard such as tire pressure monitoring system, blind spot monitoring, a lane keeping assist, rear cross traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, Mazda Radar cruise control, traction control, and 360 degree rear viewing camera. In terms of air bags, there are dual front bags, front side impact bags, side air curtains. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives this vehicle an overall rating of 5 stars.
The base MSRP of this vehicle is $46,605.00. The only added option was the special paint charge for the Machine Grey Metallic color which adds $495.00. With delivery charges the total comes to $48,200.
Is it worth a look? I would say so. You are getting a lot of style, exterior and interior features, safety and security features that Mazda brings to their flagship SUV.
The CX-9 is sporty looking, accelerates exceptionally well, rides firm, but not stiff, and handles well with its independent front and rear suspension. AWD is standard which came in handy during February's worst snow and cold.
The interior is striking, with comfortable Napa Leather trimmed seats which are heated and ventilated. The heated seats were a plus for my winter test drive. The captain's chairs in the second row are heated only. The steering wheel is heated, as well, but I found it odd that the wheel is only heated on the sides. It would have been nice if it were heated around most of the wheel. The cabin is quiet and well insulated from road and engine noise.
The CX-9 is powered by a four-cylinder 2.5 turbo engine, putting out 227 HP @ 5,000 rpm and 310 Lb-Ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. The transmission is 6-speed automatic, with steering wheel paddle shifters, and an AWD drive train. Fuel economy is 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for a combined 23 mpg.
Particularly nice exterior features are the 20-in. alloy wheels, rain sensing wipers, intermittent rear wiper, and the heated and auto folding side view mirrors. Additional features include a hands-free power rear liftgate, a power moonroof, LED headlights, LED fog and daytime running lights, LED taillights, aluminum roof rails and bright finished exhaust tips.
An interior feature that I particularly liked is the heads-up display. This display, located in the driver's lower field of vision, provides the speed limit, indicators for blind spot intrusion on either side of the vehicle, and lane departure warnings.
Other interior features include power front driver and passenger seats, tilt and telescopic leather steering wheel with audio controls, 3-zone automatic climate control, rear view camera and keyless entry. The center mounted 10.25-in. color display is user friendly and provides information with a console mounted knob that helps to navigate through the screen.
The standard audio is a Bose, AM,FM,HD, 12-speaker system with Bluetooth hands-free phone which has Android Auto and Apple Carplay capability.
Many safety features are standard such as tire pressure monitoring system, blind spot monitoring, a lane keeping assist, rear cross traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, Mazda Radar cruise control, traction control, and 360 degree rear viewing camera. In terms of air bags, there are dual front bags, front side impact bags, side air curtains. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives this vehicle an overall rating of 5 stars.
The base MSRP of this vehicle is $46,605.00. The only added option was the special paint charge for the Machine Grey Metallic color which adds $495.00. With delivery charges the total comes to $48,200.
Is it worth a look? I would say so. You are getting a lot of style, exterior and interior features, safety and security features that Mazda brings to their flagship SUV.
2020 FORD ESCAPE TITANIUM AWD HYBRID
By Bob Kroupa
Recently we had the pleasure to hear our next test drive would be the Ford 2020 Escape for our evaluation. The descriptive name of this vehicle told us we would be receiving a special ride from the Ford stable of vehicles.
From a historical perspective, the Escape was introduced in the US in 2001 when this first model vehicle became a real 'bell ringer' for Ford. Today, more that 4.5 million Escapes have been sold in North America. For the 2018 calendar year, the Escape was Ford's SUV sales leader with 272,228 units sold.
Fast forward to the arrival of our 'loaded' Escape on our driveway, a vehicle that Ford says' is one of their crossovers "Built Street Smart". The 2020 Escape now in its fourth generation stands lower, wider and longer and is now classified as a small crossover, however, 'mid-size' would be more appropriate.
The exterior body inspired by Ford's sports cars included a shield-shaped trapezoidal grille with the likes of the sixth generation Mustang and the lower front end from the Ford GT. Add the new slopped roofline; optimized liftgate spoiler and stroke; upper LED headlamps, fog lamps and tail lamps; roof rack side rails, window and beltline moldings; and, 19" machined-face aluminum wheels with dark tarnish-painted pockets - and you have real WOW! factor curb appeal.
The cabin features a 12.3" full-digital instrument cluster, a SYNC3 system with 8" touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as well as voice activated Navigation. 'FordPassConnect' provides 4G LTE Wi-Fi for up to 10 mobile devices. Drivers and passengers can charge their mobile devices with a wireless charging pad in the front center console. Also included are USB charging ports and 12-Volt charging sockets. A Bang & Olufsen sound system with a 575-watt 10-speaker sound system and Sirius Radio will keep all passengers entertained.
We would be amiss if we did not mention a first for Ford North American (and one of our favorite features we first experienced in 1990 while driving a Chevrolet ZR-1 Corvette) - a HEADS UP DISPLAY!! Ford's display is a retractable 6" screen that provides needed driver information including vehicle speed while keeping eyes on the road.
But there's more! Add dual-zone climate controls for the front seats, leather wrapped heated seats and steering wheel; rear seats with 60/40 folding capability, ample rear leg room for adult passengers; fold-flat rear seats that give a total of 60.8 cubic feet of storage (34.4 basic storage space); and you have upscale features making the Escape a very flexible vehicle.
Our test drive, the Escape Hybrid was powered by a 2.5L i-VCT Atkinson Cycle 1-4 Hybrid engine pumping out 198 HP. The engine is coupled with an electronic continuously variable transmission with a rotary dial for shift selections, selectable Drive Modes and Intelligent all-wheel drive with AWD disconnect. The Drive Modes are Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery and Snow/Sand.
The Escape's safety package includes the usual front, side and overhead airbags for the front and rear passengers. In addition, 'FordPass-Pilot' 360 Assist features Adaptive Cruise Control with stop and go lane centering, evasive steering assist, blind spot information with cross-traffic alert and lane keeping assist and rear view camera. Another unique feature has eliminated the 'hold open rod' so the hood remains open in the raised position when viewing the engine compartment.
On the road our test drive took us over 100 miles starting on the Interstate with a posted 70 MPH speed limit. Full throttle initiated the gasoline engine and battery support to reach the 70 MPH speed limit quickly and safely off the entrance ramp and into traffic. The ride was quite comfortable with the adjustable front seats (10-way for the driver and 6-way for the passenger). The Panoramic Vista Roof provided front and rear passengers with scenic overhead views and fresh air. After a pleasant trip on the Interstate we used the Navigation to direct us to several rural roads that provided another handling experience test for the Escape.
Selecting the Sport driving mode we were able to handle the new terrain with ease and the Sport mode provided increased throttle response allowing quicker shifts for a more aggressive feel and allowed the transmission to hold shifts longer to help the Escape accelerate faster when shifting. The Escape was quite stable as we handled tight cures. City driving was a pleasure and the Active Park Assist 2.0 virtually provided hands-free parking!
Fuel economy was excellent as rated by the EPA at 43/37/40 MPG (city/highway/combined).
Base Price of our test Escape was $34,900. The bottom-line price with optional Equipment Group, Titanium Premium Package and $1,095 destination and deliver charges was $37,900.
BOTTOM LINE: The 2020 Ford Escape Titanium AWD Hybrid was one of our favorite crossovers with many desirable features. It drives high on our consideration list.
From a historical perspective, the Escape was introduced in the US in 2001 when this first model vehicle became a real 'bell ringer' for Ford. Today, more that 4.5 million Escapes have been sold in North America. For the 2018 calendar year, the Escape was Ford's SUV sales leader with 272,228 units sold.
Fast forward to the arrival of our 'loaded' Escape on our driveway, a vehicle that Ford says' is one of their crossovers "Built Street Smart". The 2020 Escape now in its fourth generation stands lower, wider and longer and is now classified as a small crossover, however, 'mid-size' would be more appropriate.
The exterior body inspired by Ford's sports cars included a shield-shaped trapezoidal grille with the likes of the sixth generation Mustang and the lower front end from the Ford GT. Add the new slopped roofline; optimized liftgate spoiler and stroke; upper LED headlamps, fog lamps and tail lamps; roof rack side rails, window and beltline moldings; and, 19" machined-face aluminum wheels with dark tarnish-painted pockets - and you have real WOW! factor curb appeal.
The cabin features a 12.3" full-digital instrument cluster, a SYNC3 system with 8" touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as well as voice activated Navigation. 'FordPassConnect' provides 4G LTE Wi-Fi for up to 10 mobile devices. Drivers and passengers can charge their mobile devices with a wireless charging pad in the front center console. Also included are USB charging ports and 12-Volt charging sockets. A Bang & Olufsen sound system with a 575-watt 10-speaker sound system and Sirius Radio will keep all passengers entertained.
We would be amiss if we did not mention a first for Ford North American (and one of our favorite features we first experienced in 1990 while driving a Chevrolet ZR-1 Corvette) - a HEADS UP DISPLAY!! Ford's display is a retractable 6" screen that provides needed driver information including vehicle speed while keeping eyes on the road.
But there's more! Add dual-zone climate controls for the front seats, leather wrapped heated seats and steering wheel; rear seats with 60/40 folding capability, ample rear leg room for adult passengers; fold-flat rear seats that give a total of 60.8 cubic feet of storage (34.4 basic storage space); and you have upscale features making the Escape a very flexible vehicle.
Our test drive, the Escape Hybrid was powered by a 2.5L i-VCT Atkinson Cycle 1-4 Hybrid engine pumping out 198 HP. The engine is coupled with an electronic continuously variable transmission with a rotary dial for shift selections, selectable Drive Modes and Intelligent all-wheel drive with AWD disconnect. The Drive Modes are Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery and Snow/Sand.
The Escape's safety package includes the usual front, side and overhead airbags for the front and rear passengers. In addition, 'FordPass-Pilot' 360 Assist features Adaptive Cruise Control with stop and go lane centering, evasive steering assist, blind spot information with cross-traffic alert and lane keeping assist and rear view camera. Another unique feature has eliminated the 'hold open rod' so the hood remains open in the raised position when viewing the engine compartment.
On the road our test drive took us over 100 miles starting on the Interstate with a posted 70 MPH speed limit. Full throttle initiated the gasoline engine and battery support to reach the 70 MPH speed limit quickly and safely off the entrance ramp and into traffic. The ride was quite comfortable with the adjustable front seats (10-way for the driver and 6-way for the passenger). The Panoramic Vista Roof provided front and rear passengers with scenic overhead views and fresh air. After a pleasant trip on the Interstate we used the Navigation to direct us to several rural roads that provided another handling experience test for the Escape.
Selecting the Sport driving mode we were able to handle the new terrain with ease and the Sport mode provided increased throttle response allowing quicker shifts for a more aggressive feel and allowed the transmission to hold shifts longer to help the Escape accelerate faster when shifting. The Escape was quite stable as we handled tight cures. City driving was a pleasure and the Active Park Assist 2.0 virtually provided hands-free parking!
Fuel economy was excellent as rated by the EPA at 43/37/40 MPG (city/highway/combined).
Base Price of our test Escape was $34,900. The bottom-line price with optional Equipment Group, Titanium Premium Package and $1,095 destination and deliver charges was $37,900.
BOTTOM LINE: The 2020 Ford Escape Titanium AWD Hybrid was one of our favorite crossovers with many desirable features. It drives high on our consideration list.
2020 TOYOTA RAV4 TRD OFF-ROAD
By Bob Kroupa
The top-selling SUV, Toyota RAV4, was headed our way and we were pumped. With almost a half million sales (448,074) in 2019, we were quite pleased for the opportunity to have a RAV4 for our latest test drive.
Just before it arrived, we went back in time to January 1996, when the Toyota RAV4 had its initial US launch. The US consumer was more than ready for a versatile SUV that provided ample cargo space, high driving visibility, optional four wheel drive, ease of driving and small car fuel economy. The RAV4 name was initially related to the attributes "Recreational Activity Vehicle-4 wheel drive" and changed a bit later to "Robust Accurate Vehicle".
Fast forward to late 2018 when the all new fifth generation RAV4 was launched. The 'RAV4 TDR (Toyota Racing Development) Off Road' was in the development stage and planned for introduction at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show. We were at the introduction when this new version was greeted by the media journalists with enthusiastic applause.
Our test drive, a Magnetic Gray Metallic/Black 2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road arrived showing off its unique muscular profile, not typical of the standard RAV4. Its classic dark paint, matte black TRD 18" alloy wheels with all-terrain tires, Ice Edge painted roof with high-rise roof rails, large over-fenders, aggressive bumpers, grill designs and fog light surrounds were all cues from Toyota's rich off-road racing history - a power look that caught our attention fast!
The interior was nicely done with striking red stitching on the bolster seats with TRD stitched on the headrests and red accents throughout the interior including the all weather floor mats and cargo mat for easy cleaning maintenance. Quite notable was the ample storage area in the front cabin that included a flat in-dash shelf, twin cup holders in the center console, storage bin between the front bucket seats and both front and rear door panels with large pockets and cup holder spaces. The rear seat offered a 60/40 fold down feature for addition cargo storage. Also the rear compartment was equipped with a 120/100w power outlet. The rear hatch was power driven for hands free opening.
Toyota multimedia equipment provided many convenience features with the likes of an 8" touchscreen located top center on the dash that doubles as a rear backup camera. Hands-free Bluetooth phone, Wi-Fi, Navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, JBL Audio with a sub-woofer, Sirius XM Radio and 4 USB charge ports are all included.
Our RAV TRD was powered by the standard 2.5L 4-cylinder engine rated at 203 HP with the torque, 184 lb.-ft. @ 5,000RPM. Coupled with the engine is an 8-speed direct-shift automatic transmission with Sport, Normal and Eco driving modes. Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with multi-terrain select included a Rock & Dirt mode for off-road trails, Mud & Sand mode for beach and muddy terrain and Snow for wintery conditions.
The RAV4 TRD's short front and rear overhangs add to off-road versatility along with Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Sway Control (TSC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Trailer (up to 3,500 pounds) Control. These features provide optimal on and off road performance and safety.
Prior to our test drive we noted the many safety features that included 8 airbags, Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection, Dynamic Rider Cruise Control, lane departure alert with steering assist, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, rear cross traffic braking and front and rear parking assist. Surrounded with all of these safety features we were ready for a safe trial run.
Our route of over 100 miles started with a run on the nearby Interstate with a posted speed limit of 70 MPH. We set our drive selection in the Sport mode for our sprint to the speed limit. This four banger performed smoothly in reaching the speed limit without any concerns for oncoming traffic. Once underway, we were able to implement the rear driveline disconnect feature of the Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive System. There is no need for AWD on the Interstate during a bright, sunny day so we could optimize our fuel economy.
The ride was quite comfortable especially with the heated and ventilated features of the dual controlled bucket seats. The JBL sound system with its 11 speakers in 9 locations provided us with upscale concert performances. The open panoramic roof added to the overall ambiance of our ride.
The Navigation System directed us to a series of rural roads. Leaving the Interstate it was time to return to the AWD and Sport mode. Driving on the rural roads the RAV4 TRD, with its tuned red coil springs and twin-tube shocks, enhanced our ride most impressively. Back in town for a few stops we found parking with the Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automated Braking was done with ease.
Fuel economy by EPA/DOT was 25/32/27 MPG city/highway/combined. The base price of our Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road was $35,180; the price with option packages and delivery, processing and handling was $41,780.
BOTTOM LINE: If you are looking for a Crossover that provides loads of technology and driver convenience in addition to proven off-road capability, the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road is a vehicle worthy of extra consideration.
Just before it arrived, we went back in time to January 1996, when the Toyota RAV4 had its initial US launch. The US consumer was more than ready for a versatile SUV that provided ample cargo space, high driving visibility, optional four wheel drive, ease of driving and small car fuel economy. The RAV4 name was initially related to the attributes "Recreational Activity Vehicle-4 wheel drive" and changed a bit later to "Robust Accurate Vehicle".
Fast forward to late 2018 when the all new fifth generation RAV4 was launched. The 'RAV4 TDR (Toyota Racing Development) Off Road' was in the development stage and planned for introduction at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show. We were at the introduction when this new version was greeted by the media journalists with enthusiastic applause.
Our test drive, a Magnetic Gray Metallic/Black 2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road arrived showing off its unique muscular profile, not typical of the standard RAV4. Its classic dark paint, matte black TRD 18" alloy wheels with all-terrain tires, Ice Edge painted roof with high-rise roof rails, large over-fenders, aggressive bumpers, grill designs and fog light surrounds were all cues from Toyota's rich off-road racing history - a power look that caught our attention fast!
The interior was nicely done with striking red stitching on the bolster seats with TRD stitched on the headrests and red accents throughout the interior including the all weather floor mats and cargo mat for easy cleaning maintenance. Quite notable was the ample storage area in the front cabin that included a flat in-dash shelf, twin cup holders in the center console, storage bin between the front bucket seats and both front and rear door panels with large pockets and cup holder spaces. The rear seat offered a 60/40 fold down feature for addition cargo storage. Also the rear compartment was equipped with a 120/100w power outlet. The rear hatch was power driven for hands free opening.
Toyota multimedia equipment provided many convenience features with the likes of an 8" touchscreen located top center on the dash that doubles as a rear backup camera. Hands-free Bluetooth phone, Wi-Fi, Navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, JBL Audio with a sub-woofer, Sirius XM Radio and 4 USB charge ports are all included.
Our RAV TRD was powered by the standard 2.5L 4-cylinder engine rated at 203 HP with the torque, 184 lb.-ft. @ 5,000RPM. Coupled with the engine is an 8-speed direct-shift automatic transmission with Sport, Normal and Eco driving modes. Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with multi-terrain select included a Rock & Dirt mode for off-road trails, Mud & Sand mode for beach and muddy terrain and Snow for wintery conditions.
The RAV4 TRD's short front and rear overhangs add to off-road versatility along with Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Sway Control (TSC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Trailer (up to 3,500 pounds) Control. These features provide optimal on and off road performance and safety.
Prior to our test drive we noted the many safety features that included 8 airbags, Pre-Collision System with pedestrian detection, Dynamic Rider Cruise Control, lane departure alert with steering assist, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, rear cross traffic braking and front and rear parking assist. Surrounded with all of these safety features we were ready for a safe trial run.
Our route of over 100 miles started with a run on the nearby Interstate with a posted speed limit of 70 MPH. We set our drive selection in the Sport mode for our sprint to the speed limit. This four banger performed smoothly in reaching the speed limit without any concerns for oncoming traffic. Once underway, we were able to implement the rear driveline disconnect feature of the Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive System. There is no need for AWD on the Interstate during a bright, sunny day so we could optimize our fuel economy.
The ride was quite comfortable especially with the heated and ventilated features of the dual controlled bucket seats. The JBL sound system with its 11 speakers in 9 locations provided us with upscale concert performances. The open panoramic roof added to the overall ambiance of our ride.
The Navigation System directed us to a series of rural roads. Leaving the Interstate it was time to return to the AWD and Sport mode. Driving on the rural roads the RAV4 TRD, with its tuned red coil springs and twin-tube shocks, enhanced our ride most impressively. Back in town for a few stops we found parking with the Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automated Braking was done with ease.
Fuel economy by EPA/DOT was 25/32/27 MPG city/highway/combined. The base price of our Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road was $35,180; the price with option packages and delivery, processing and handling was $41,780.
BOTTOM LINE: If you are looking for a Crossover that provides loads of technology and driver convenience in addition to proven off-road capability, the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road is a vehicle worthy of extra consideration.
2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited AWD
By Larry Rust
The Hyundai Santa Fe was introduced in 2001 as Hyundai's first SUV. It instantly became a hit. Now in its fourth generation, the Santa Fe continues to be refined in styling and new technology .
The 2020 Santa Fe exterior has a sporty looking front end which carries the recognizable Hyundai front grill. Sleek LED headlights and fog lights, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a panoramic sunroof add to its character.
The Limited is equipped with a 2.0-Liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 230 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with this engine are an eight speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. I found the combination to be responsive and fun to drive. A simple switch on the console allows the driver to select sport or smart mode, thus changing throttle and transmission responses, resulting in different driving experiences. The ride is comfortable and firm. The vehicle is equipped with Stop and Go. The fuel economy ratings for the Santa Fe are a little disappointing for this size vehicle at 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway.
Inside the cabin, I found the front and rear seats to be comfortable. The front driver seat provides adequate side to side room for your legs. The center console does not flair out below the dash, as I have seen on other SUVs in this segment, impinging on the driver's right leg. The interior trim is leather and includes a leather wrapped, heated steering wheel that I found comfortable to my grip. Heated seats are offered for front and rear, with ventilation for the front seats only. Both driver and passenger front seats are 8-way power adjustable. The 60/40 back seats are roomy and can be partially reclined or folded flat. Other interior features include dual automatic temperature controls, front and rear USB ports, a 12V and 115V power outlet, auto dimming rear view mirror and wireless device charger. Cargo storage is about 71.3 cu. ft. with the back seats down and about 35.9 cu ft. with the rear seats upright. An under the floor compartment located at the rear of the cargo area provides additional storage space.
An eight-inch display at the top of the center stack contains the navigation system with Android Auto and Apple Car Play along with readout for the premium Infinity AM/FM/HD audio system.
In terms of safety, the Santa Fe is not lacking. Besides the standard anti-lock brakes, and stability/traction controls, the vehicle features six airbags (front, front side and side curtain), forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. Additionally, a safe exit system for a left rear passenger, lane keeping assist, and driver inattention warning system are offered. A feature included on this vehicle, for which I am a big fan, is the heads-up display.
My overall opinion is that the Hyundai Santa Fe Limited is a must-see for someone looking for a mid-sized SUV loaded with features both for safety and convenience.
Hyundai still leads the industry with a 5 year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty, 10 year/100,000 mile Powertrain warranty and a 5 year/unlimited miles Roadside Assistance.
The Santa Fe is built in Montgomery, Alabama.
This vehicle, as tested, has an MSRP of $40,430 including freight charges.
The 2020 Santa Fe exterior has a sporty looking front end which carries the recognizable Hyundai front grill. Sleek LED headlights and fog lights, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a panoramic sunroof add to its character.
The Limited is equipped with a 2.0-Liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 230 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with this engine are an eight speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. I found the combination to be responsive and fun to drive. A simple switch on the console allows the driver to select sport or smart mode, thus changing throttle and transmission responses, resulting in different driving experiences. The ride is comfortable and firm. The vehicle is equipped with Stop and Go. The fuel economy ratings for the Santa Fe are a little disappointing for this size vehicle at 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway.
Inside the cabin, I found the front and rear seats to be comfortable. The front driver seat provides adequate side to side room for your legs. The center console does not flair out below the dash, as I have seen on other SUVs in this segment, impinging on the driver's right leg. The interior trim is leather and includes a leather wrapped, heated steering wheel that I found comfortable to my grip. Heated seats are offered for front and rear, with ventilation for the front seats only. Both driver and passenger front seats are 8-way power adjustable. The 60/40 back seats are roomy and can be partially reclined or folded flat. Other interior features include dual automatic temperature controls, front and rear USB ports, a 12V and 115V power outlet, auto dimming rear view mirror and wireless device charger. Cargo storage is about 71.3 cu. ft. with the back seats down and about 35.9 cu ft. with the rear seats upright. An under the floor compartment located at the rear of the cargo area provides additional storage space.
An eight-inch display at the top of the center stack contains the navigation system with Android Auto and Apple Car Play along with readout for the premium Infinity AM/FM/HD audio system.
In terms of safety, the Santa Fe is not lacking. Besides the standard anti-lock brakes, and stability/traction controls, the vehicle features six airbags (front, front side and side curtain), forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. Additionally, a safe exit system for a left rear passenger, lane keeping assist, and driver inattention warning system are offered. A feature included on this vehicle, for which I am a big fan, is the heads-up display.
My overall opinion is that the Hyundai Santa Fe Limited is a must-see for someone looking for a mid-sized SUV loaded with features both for safety and convenience.
Hyundai still leads the industry with a 5 year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty, 10 year/100,000 mile Powertrain warranty and a 5 year/unlimited miles Roadside Assistance.
The Santa Fe is built in Montgomery, Alabama.
This vehicle, as tested, has an MSRP of $40,430 including freight charges.
2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD
By Larry Rust
New for 2019 is the top of line Signature Trim Level. Since the introduction of the CX-5 in 2012, Mazda has continually been making improvements to the CX-5 and I was quite impressed with this vehicle. With the sporty outside look, responsive acceleration and handling, and comfortable interior, I can see why Mazda has surpassed 2 million in total sales in seven years.
Under the hood, the Signature level comes with a SkyActive-G 2.5T Dynamic Pressure Turbo Engine. It will produce 250 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and all wheel drive. This drive train combination is rated at fuel economy of 27 mpg highway and 22 mpg city. For stopping power, the front brakes are ventilated disc and the rear are solid disc. Suspension is independent front and rear with stabilizer bars front and rear.
In the interior, the CX-5 Signature has nice Caturra Brown leather seats, wood and satin chrome trim. Seats are very comfortable with eight-way front adjustable seats with lumbar, power seat memory on the driver's side, power passenger seat and a tilt/telescopic leather wrapped steering wheel with cruise and radio control buttons with heating capability. The leather wrapped steering wheel felt too hard, as if it were plastic. It would be a much better feeling if it were a little softer. Also standard are power door locks and power windows with one touch up/down control. The seating is for five passengers with both front and back seats having the heating feature. Rear seats can be folded for more cargo volume, about 71 cubic feet with seats down and fourteen and a half cubic feet with seats up.
On the exterior, there are 19-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, a power moon roof and power rear lift gate. The side mirrors are heated with turn indicators and will fold under power. The LED headlights are auto on-off and the fog lights are LED as are the daytime running lights. At the rear are a roof spoiler and nice chrome exhaust outlets.
The audio system is a BOSE premium system with 10 speakers. Control of the radio is through the 7-inch full color touch screen display at the center of the dash or with the multifunction knob mounted on the console. This control knob also helps you navigate through the infotainment system. I found it to be easy to use when figuring out its functions while navigating through the touch screen. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibilities are also part of the system.
The 7-inch dash mounted display incorporates hands-free phone Bluetooth and the Mazda Navigation System, as well as a 360-degree view monitor system. A feature I particularly liked is that the display shows the upcoming cross street at the top of the screen even if the Navigation System is not activated. In addition to the mounted display, the CX-5 features an adjustable Heads Up display which provides, at line of sight, the vehicle's speed, the posted speed limit, and indication of any vehicle which may be in the left or right blind spots. This was another well-liked feature.
For safety, Mazda has incorporated their i-Activsense safety features. The features are many and include:
The MSRP for this vehicle and options is $37,610, plus delivery fees of $1,045, bringing the total for this vehicle to $38,655.
This SUV is highly recommended by me for a serious look and test drive.
Under the hood, the Signature level comes with a SkyActive-G 2.5T Dynamic Pressure Turbo Engine. It will produce 250 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and all wheel drive. This drive train combination is rated at fuel economy of 27 mpg highway and 22 mpg city. For stopping power, the front brakes are ventilated disc and the rear are solid disc. Suspension is independent front and rear with stabilizer bars front and rear.
In the interior, the CX-5 Signature has nice Caturra Brown leather seats, wood and satin chrome trim. Seats are very comfortable with eight-way front adjustable seats with lumbar, power seat memory on the driver's side, power passenger seat and a tilt/telescopic leather wrapped steering wheel with cruise and radio control buttons with heating capability. The leather wrapped steering wheel felt too hard, as if it were plastic. It would be a much better feeling if it were a little softer. Also standard are power door locks and power windows with one touch up/down control. The seating is for five passengers with both front and back seats having the heating feature. Rear seats can be folded for more cargo volume, about 71 cubic feet with seats down and fourteen and a half cubic feet with seats up.
On the exterior, there are 19-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, a power moon roof and power rear lift gate. The side mirrors are heated with turn indicators and will fold under power. The LED headlights are auto on-off and the fog lights are LED as are the daytime running lights. At the rear are a roof spoiler and nice chrome exhaust outlets.
The audio system is a BOSE premium system with 10 speakers. Control of the radio is through the 7-inch full color touch screen display at the center of the dash or with the multifunction knob mounted on the console. This control knob also helps you navigate through the infotainment system. I found it to be easy to use when figuring out its functions while navigating through the touch screen. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibilities are also part of the system.
The 7-inch dash mounted display incorporates hands-free phone Bluetooth and the Mazda Navigation System, as well as a 360-degree view monitor system. A feature I particularly liked is that the display shows the upcoming cross street at the top of the screen even if the Navigation System is not activated. In addition to the mounted display, the CX-5 features an adjustable Heads Up display which provides, at line of sight, the vehicle's speed, the posted speed limit, and indication of any vehicle which may be in the left or right blind spots. This was another well-liked feature.
For safety, Mazda has incorporated their i-Activsense safety features. The features are many and include:
- Blind Spot Monitoring with rear cross traffic alert;
- Lane Departure Warning with audible and visual alerts;
- Heads up display showing street speed limit, vehicle speed, blind spot warnings both sides;
- Lane Keep Assist keeps centers the vehicle should it begin to leave its lane;
- Radar Cruise Control keeps a safe distance between the vehicle and the one in front;
- Smart City Brake Support applies the brakes below 19 mph to avoid a frontal collision;
- Dual front air bags, front side impact air bags and front and rear side air curtains;
- Front and rear parking sensors; and
- Stability and traction control.
The MSRP for this vehicle and options is $37,610, plus delivery fees of $1,045, bringing the total for this vehicle to $38,655.
This SUV is highly recommended by me for a serious look and test drive.
2020 Hyundai Palisade Limited
by Larry Rust
At the Los Angeles Auto Show in the fall of 2018, Hyundai presented their entry into the large SUV market. It is the 2020 Palisade, an SUV with three-row seating that can accommodate 7 or 8 passengers. Vehicles are now arriving at dealerships and I recently had the opportunity to spend the better part of a day in their new flagship SUV, courtesy of Hyundai.
The vehicle test driven is the Limited model. Limited is a fully decked out version of the Palisade with the SE having the entry level trim and the SEL the middle trim level. The Limited trim package seems to lack nothing, and included leather seats, a second row of captain’s chairs plus a third-row bench seat. Hyundai is offering either the second-row seating in two captain's chairs or a bench seat with no change in pricing. Both second-row and third-row seat backs can be electrically folded by controls located just inside the tailgate. Both front seats and second row captain’s chairs are heated and ventilated.
The power plant for this vehicle is a 3.8L V-6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The engine delivers 291 hp and 262 lb.-ft of torque. On the console, there is a selector knob for different driving characteristics such as comfort, eco, sport and smart. AWD is also standard with an auto-leveling rear suspension. Fuel economy is rated at 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
Additional comfort and convenience features include a 10.25" navigation screen with SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated steering wheel, rear side window sunshades, driver integrated memory seat, surround view monitor, blind view monitor, wireless phone charger, a 12.3" digital instrument cluster, dual auto temp control, head- up display, front and rear parking distance warning, hands-free smart liftgate with auto open, seven USB outlets, a 115-volt AC power outlet and a Harman Kardon premium sound system.
Safety technology abounds in the Limited. Features include Smart cruise control with stop and go, forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, driver attention warning, blind spot collision avoidance, driver’s side safe exit assist and rear cross traffic collision avoidance assist.
Exterior features include 20" wheels, rear wide dual sunroof with shade, and LED headlights with high beam assist.
This vehicle is setup for towing with a trailering package consisting of pre-wiring, transmission cooler and sway control. The towing capacity of the Palisades is rated up to 5,000 lbs.
The only added option to this vehicle was carpeted floor mats at $160. I would think that this should have been a standard feature. With the delivery charges of $1045 the MSRP came to $47,605.
The 2020 Palisades is a definite SUV to consider. It is a great looking SUV loaded with standard features and Hyundai's industry leading new vehicle warranty.
The Palisades is built in Ulsan, Korea.
The vehicle test driven is the Limited model. Limited is a fully decked out version of the Palisade with the SE having the entry level trim and the SEL the middle trim level. The Limited trim package seems to lack nothing, and included leather seats, a second row of captain’s chairs plus a third-row bench seat. Hyundai is offering either the second-row seating in two captain's chairs or a bench seat with no change in pricing. Both second-row and third-row seat backs can be electrically folded by controls located just inside the tailgate. Both front seats and second row captain’s chairs are heated and ventilated.
The power plant for this vehicle is a 3.8L V-6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The engine delivers 291 hp and 262 lb.-ft of torque. On the console, there is a selector knob for different driving characteristics such as comfort, eco, sport and smart. AWD is also standard with an auto-leveling rear suspension. Fuel economy is rated at 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
Additional comfort and convenience features include a 10.25" navigation screen with SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated steering wheel, rear side window sunshades, driver integrated memory seat, surround view monitor, blind view monitor, wireless phone charger, a 12.3" digital instrument cluster, dual auto temp control, head- up display, front and rear parking distance warning, hands-free smart liftgate with auto open, seven USB outlets, a 115-volt AC power outlet and a Harman Kardon premium sound system.
Safety technology abounds in the Limited. Features include Smart cruise control with stop and go, forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, driver attention warning, blind spot collision avoidance, driver’s side safe exit assist and rear cross traffic collision avoidance assist.
Exterior features include 20" wheels, rear wide dual sunroof with shade, and LED headlights with high beam assist.
This vehicle is setup for towing with a trailering package consisting of pre-wiring, transmission cooler and sway control. The towing capacity of the Palisades is rated up to 5,000 lbs.
The only added option to this vehicle was carpeted floor mats at $160. I would think that this should have been a standard feature. With the delivery charges of $1045 the MSRP came to $47,605.
The 2020 Palisades is a definite SUV to consider. It is a great looking SUV loaded with standard features and Hyundai's industry leading new vehicle warranty.
The Palisades is built in Ulsan, Korea.
2019 LEXUS RX 350L AWD
By Bob Kroupa
The week was off to a great start when we saw the new 2019 Lexus RX 350L AWD roll onto our driveway. We were very please to find this 2019 mid-size luxury RX was scheduled for our latest test drive!
First, a background perspective: The first generation RX was introduced in 1998, the V6 RX300. This introduction actually created the luxury crossover segment. In addition, the Lexus RX won their first 'SUV of the Year' Award in 1999.
Fast forward to this week: the Lexus RX has been the brand's sales leader for several years registering 116,641 sold units during the 2018 calendar year. The six month sales total for 2019 was 48,061.
The 2018 year model was memorable for the optional addition of three-row seating for the fourth generation RX 350L, note the 'L' designation. The third-row seating option was accomplished when Lexus extended the body length 4.3 inches at the rear and with a modified tailgate window angle, ensured ample headroom for third row passengers. Also, since the RX and RXL are the same exterior size, no driving/parking adjustments are necessary. However, we did note the third row seating is tight on leg room for most adults.
Our test drive vehicle with the Autumn Shimmer exterior paint color featured a scratch-resistant self-restoring coat with high performance maromolecular polymer. The RX has excellent curb appeal that includes stylized sheet-metal at and below the belt line and over the wheel wells coupled with blacked-out C-pillars creating a floating roof effect. Its traditional spindle grill was trimmed with chrome-plated surround that added to the front appearance. The rear view included bright trim below the bumper and the 'L' designation on the rear deck lid indicating this was a three-row vehicle. All nicely done!
Sliding into the interior we were greeted with comfortable, form-fitting seats with optional heated/ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. Our RX had the optional 12.3 Navigation system and Mark Levinson 15-speaker Premium Audio Package that included a CD port. Another neat feature was the lower front door pockets with a 2" expansion feature.
From an infotainment perspective the system had crystal clear graphics on the Lexus 'Enform' app. While the console mounted controller lacks ease of operation for the driver, we understand the Apple CarPlay compatibility and Android Auto functionality are included in the 2020 RX 350 along with touchscreen enhancement that should improve this situation.
The second-row seating had a 60/40 split seat with easy folding to gain access to the third row seating. Cargo space was adequate at 58.5 cubic feet with both back rows folded down and 16.3 cubic feet with both rows of seats in the upright position and 23.0 cubic feet with the third row folded.
Driving the 2019 RX 350L in local traffic was a breeze as was parking using the split view rear camera that included a 'surround image' of the vehicle. Entering our nearby Interstate with a speed limit of 70 MPH was done with ease, acceleration brought us to 70 MPH quickly as the 295 HP V6 3.5 liter engine with 268 lb.ft. of torque is perfect for this road cruiser. Our test drive model had the Dynamic Torque Control AWD. Under normal cruising conditions the system engages front-wheel drive to help reduce fuel consumption. Dynamic Torque Control automatically shifts to AWD when accelerating to help prevent front wheel slippage or when sensors detect wheel slippage.
Leaving the Interstate we drove on country roads in an effort to test the three driving modes: 'ECO' moderates engine power output, throttle response and climate control for optimized fuel efficiency; 'Normal' provides the ideal everyday balance of performance and energy conservation; and, 'Sports S' model controls the transmission and engine to provide quick, powerful acceleration and also provides a sharper feel of the steering system. The side trip on the curved country roads brought back our safe, fun driving! Our driving trips registered fuel economy of 18 City/ 25 Highway/ and 21 Combined MPG.
Safety features were in abundance. These include 10 airbags, front (2), driver knee, passenger cushion, front side (2), rear side (2), and side curtain extending to cover third row (2). Standard was Lexus Safety System that includes adaptive cruise control, forward collusion mitigation/automatic braking and lane departure warning/lane keeping assist. Our vehicle also had the optional Blind Sport Monitor with Intuitive Parking Assist, Triple-Beam LED Auto Leveling Headlamps, Cornering Lamps and Color Heads-Up Display.
Our 2019 Lexus RX 350L AWD had a base price of $49,170. Options and destination charges brought the bottom invoice price to $60,458.
OUR BOTTOM LINE: The 2019 RX 350L AWD is worthy of a trip to your local Lexus dealer to take a personal look at their Luxury Crossover.
First, a background perspective: The first generation RX was introduced in 1998, the V6 RX300. This introduction actually created the luxury crossover segment. In addition, the Lexus RX won their first 'SUV of the Year' Award in 1999.
Fast forward to this week: the Lexus RX has been the brand's sales leader for several years registering 116,641 sold units during the 2018 calendar year. The six month sales total for 2019 was 48,061.
The 2018 year model was memorable for the optional addition of three-row seating for the fourth generation RX 350L, note the 'L' designation. The third-row seating option was accomplished when Lexus extended the body length 4.3 inches at the rear and with a modified tailgate window angle, ensured ample headroom for third row passengers. Also, since the RX and RXL are the same exterior size, no driving/parking adjustments are necessary. However, we did note the third row seating is tight on leg room for most adults.
Our test drive vehicle with the Autumn Shimmer exterior paint color featured a scratch-resistant self-restoring coat with high performance maromolecular polymer. The RX has excellent curb appeal that includes stylized sheet-metal at and below the belt line and over the wheel wells coupled with blacked-out C-pillars creating a floating roof effect. Its traditional spindle grill was trimmed with chrome-plated surround that added to the front appearance. The rear view included bright trim below the bumper and the 'L' designation on the rear deck lid indicating this was a three-row vehicle. All nicely done!
Sliding into the interior we were greeted with comfortable, form-fitting seats with optional heated/ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. Our RX had the optional 12.3 Navigation system and Mark Levinson 15-speaker Premium Audio Package that included a CD port. Another neat feature was the lower front door pockets with a 2" expansion feature.
From an infotainment perspective the system had crystal clear graphics on the Lexus 'Enform' app. While the console mounted controller lacks ease of operation for the driver, we understand the Apple CarPlay compatibility and Android Auto functionality are included in the 2020 RX 350 along with touchscreen enhancement that should improve this situation.
The second-row seating had a 60/40 split seat with easy folding to gain access to the third row seating. Cargo space was adequate at 58.5 cubic feet with both back rows folded down and 16.3 cubic feet with both rows of seats in the upright position and 23.0 cubic feet with the third row folded.
Driving the 2019 RX 350L in local traffic was a breeze as was parking using the split view rear camera that included a 'surround image' of the vehicle. Entering our nearby Interstate with a speed limit of 70 MPH was done with ease, acceleration brought us to 70 MPH quickly as the 295 HP V6 3.5 liter engine with 268 lb.ft. of torque is perfect for this road cruiser. Our test drive model had the Dynamic Torque Control AWD. Under normal cruising conditions the system engages front-wheel drive to help reduce fuel consumption. Dynamic Torque Control automatically shifts to AWD when accelerating to help prevent front wheel slippage or when sensors detect wheel slippage.
Leaving the Interstate we drove on country roads in an effort to test the three driving modes: 'ECO' moderates engine power output, throttle response and climate control for optimized fuel efficiency; 'Normal' provides the ideal everyday balance of performance and energy conservation; and, 'Sports S' model controls the transmission and engine to provide quick, powerful acceleration and also provides a sharper feel of the steering system. The side trip on the curved country roads brought back our safe, fun driving! Our driving trips registered fuel economy of 18 City/ 25 Highway/ and 21 Combined MPG.
Safety features were in abundance. These include 10 airbags, front (2), driver knee, passenger cushion, front side (2), rear side (2), and side curtain extending to cover third row (2). Standard was Lexus Safety System that includes adaptive cruise control, forward collusion mitigation/automatic braking and lane departure warning/lane keeping assist. Our vehicle also had the optional Blind Sport Monitor with Intuitive Parking Assist, Triple-Beam LED Auto Leveling Headlamps, Cornering Lamps and Color Heads-Up Display.
Our 2019 Lexus RX 350L AWD had a base price of $49,170. Options and destination charges brought the bottom invoice price to $60,458.
OUR BOTTOM LINE: The 2019 RX 350L AWD is worthy of a trip to your local Lexus dealer to take a personal look at their Luxury Crossover.
2019 MAZDA CX5 Signature AWD
By Bob Kroupa
In today's new vehicle marketplace, Crossovers and SUV's are certainly in vogue. So when we received the latest notification of our next test drive with a Mazda CX5 we were certainly intrigued.
As we reviewed the Morroney (window sticker) prior to the arrival of the CX5, we knew were in for a real treat when we saw the Crossover had the new top-tier Signature trim package.
Upon arrival the Mazda CX5 Signature AWD presented an excellent curb appeal with its Machine Gray Metallic exterior paint, new 19" dark-trimmed alloy wheels, new power folding side view mirrors and full-LED headlights.
But so much for first appearances, the really big news for the 2019 CX5 was the powertrain and the interior features. Note, all the features described in this report are included as standard equipment on the Signature Trim designation.
At the heart of the CX5 is the new turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine rated at 250 HP (with 93 Octane fuel recommended) and 310 lb./ft. torque at 2,000 RPM. The HP drops to 227 when 87 Octane is used. The engine is coupled with i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive.
Enhancing the 'behind the wheel' experience is chassis fine tuning with Mazda's latest technologies, G-Vectoring Control Plus and refined suspension system. Steering geometry was also improved to help the CX5 steer through corners more naturally.
From an interior perspective features are in abundance starting with the new Caturra Brown Napa leather trimmed heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, new genuine layered wood trim, new satin chrome accents and one of our favorites - a heated steering wheel with unique stitching.
Further review included ambient interior LED lighting, an auto-dimming rearview frameless mirror with Homelink and a power moonroof.
Mounted on top of the dash is a 7" color touchscreen display in addition to having a multi-function Commander Control interface on the center console. Even though we are not fans of the touchscreen, this was a neat feature. Incidentally, the placement of the touchscreen does not hamper the driver's vision at all. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto infotainment technologies have the flexibility of usage while the vehicle is in the navigation mode. Add the Bose AM/FM/HD ten speaker system, Bluetooth and Sirius XM and you know you are in a vehicle that is well equipped for today's consumer.
From the all-important Safety aspect, the CX5 is loaded with the usual airbags, stability controls and the latest technology features that include blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, rear cross traffic alert and advanced smart city brake support.
With all these features noted it was time to 'hit the road' for a driving experience. As we stepped into the CX5 we quickly noted the folding rear seats with their split 40/20/40 combination that allowed for maximum cargo hauling of 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 59.6 with the rear seats folded down.
Our in-town driving and parking was a breeze with the new 360 degree View Monitor with both front and rear parking sensors. In addition our driving trip took us to the mountains of North Carolina via the Interstate with posted 70 MPH speed limits, country roads up into the mountains and a trip down the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Entering and merging with 70 MPH traffic was done with ease as the turbo-charged 2.5T engine was definitely up to the task by providing quick, safe acceleration. The 0-60 MPH was noted at 7.3 seconds. As a side note, the Active Driving Display projected on the windshield has become one of our favorite features.
As we headed up the mountains on two-lane county roads with numerous sharp turns, the G-Vectoring Control technologies came into play giving us complete confidence and allowing the engine and brake system to respond to the steering wheel for a safe, seamless, coordinated response - Well Done!
From a mileage perspective, our 184 mile trip registered 26 MPG. Pricing for the CX5 starts at $24,350. Our top-of-the-line Signature AWD had a base price of $36,890.
BOTTOM LINE: This has to be one of our favorite Crossovers! It is certainly worthy of a trip to your local Mazda dealership.
As we reviewed the Morroney (window sticker) prior to the arrival of the CX5, we knew were in for a real treat when we saw the Crossover had the new top-tier Signature trim package.
Upon arrival the Mazda CX5 Signature AWD presented an excellent curb appeal with its Machine Gray Metallic exterior paint, new 19" dark-trimmed alloy wheels, new power folding side view mirrors and full-LED headlights.
But so much for first appearances, the really big news for the 2019 CX5 was the powertrain and the interior features. Note, all the features described in this report are included as standard equipment on the Signature Trim designation.
At the heart of the CX5 is the new turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine rated at 250 HP (with 93 Octane fuel recommended) and 310 lb./ft. torque at 2,000 RPM. The HP drops to 227 when 87 Octane is used. The engine is coupled with i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive.
Enhancing the 'behind the wheel' experience is chassis fine tuning with Mazda's latest technologies, G-Vectoring Control Plus and refined suspension system. Steering geometry was also improved to help the CX5 steer through corners more naturally.
From an interior perspective features are in abundance starting with the new Caturra Brown Napa leather trimmed heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, new genuine layered wood trim, new satin chrome accents and one of our favorites - a heated steering wheel with unique stitching.
Further review included ambient interior LED lighting, an auto-dimming rearview frameless mirror with Homelink and a power moonroof.
Mounted on top of the dash is a 7" color touchscreen display in addition to having a multi-function Commander Control interface on the center console. Even though we are not fans of the touchscreen, this was a neat feature. Incidentally, the placement of the touchscreen does not hamper the driver's vision at all. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto infotainment technologies have the flexibility of usage while the vehicle is in the navigation mode. Add the Bose AM/FM/HD ten speaker system, Bluetooth and Sirius XM and you know you are in a vehicle that is well equipped for today's consumer.
From the all-important Safety aspect, the CX5 is loaded with the usual airbags, stability controls and the latest technology features that include blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, rear cross traffic alert and advanced smart city brake support.
With all these features noted it was time to 'hit the road' for a driving experience. As we stepped into the CX5 we quickly noted the folding rear seats with their split 40/20/40 combination that allowed for maximum cargo hauling of 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, 59.6 with the rear seats folded down.
Our in-town driving and parking was a breeze with the new 360 degree View Monitor with both front and rear parking sensors. In addition our driving trip took us to the mountains of North Carolina via the Interstate with posted 70 MPH speed limits, country roads up into the mountains and a trip down the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Entering and merging with 70 MPH traffic was done with ease as the turbo-charged 2.5T engine was definitely up to the task by providing quick, safe acceleration. The 0-60 MPH was noted at 7.3 seconds. As a side note, the Active Driving Display projected on the windshield has become one of our favorite features.
As we headed up the mountains on two-lane county roads with numerous sharp turns, the G-Vectoring Control technologies came into play giving us complete confidence and allowing the engine and brake system to respond to the steering wheel for a safe, seamless, coordinated response - Well Done!
From a mileage perspective, our 184 mile trip registered 26 MPG. Pricing for the CX5 starts at $24,350. Our top-of-the-line Signature AWD had a base price of $36,890.
BOTTOM LINE: This has to be one of our favorite Crossovers! It is certainly worthy of a trip to your local Mazda dealership.
2018.5 NISSAN ROGUE SPORT SV FWD
By Bob Kroupa
By Bob Kroupa
Back in May 2016 we had the opportunity to test drive the then-new 2017 sub-compact Rogue Sport. Our final analysis was that Nissan had built another versatile crossover, well equipped for under $30,000.
Nissan has a real winner with their Rogue models as evidenced by their sales record of this model during the last several years. In 2016, 329,904 units were sold, Nissan's top selling model. During 2017, the Rogue model rang the bell at 403,465 units becoming the brand's first nameplate to top 400,000 US sales units in a calendar year. This was an increase of 22% from 2016.
On a comparative crossover segment basis, the Rogue held the #2 spot with a few thousand units short of the #1 position held by Toyota's RAV4 at 407,594 sold units. However, the Rogue continued with the 'pedal to the metal' logging 116,454 sales units in just the first quarter of 2018, taking the #1 spot for crossover sales. The Toyota RAV4 slipped to the #2 spot with 91,459 sales units.
The popularity of the Nissan Rogue continues with just-released sales results for the second quarter of 2018. The Rogue has retained its #1 crossover sales results with 215,202 units sold. In fact, of all vehicles sold in the second quarter, the Rogue holds the #4 position, only outpaced by truck sales from Ford, Chevrolet and Ram. This is quite an accomplishment, I must add!
For the 2018 Rogue Sport, the vehicle retains it smart looking body design, trim and features that have made it a popular choice for buyers.
The 2.0 liter DOHC 16-value inline 4-cylinder engine rated at 141 HP and 147 lb-ft of torque with ECO-mode remains the same. The engine is coupled with Nissan's X-tronic automatic transmission with manual shift mode. This drivetrain package provided us with spirited driving and handling in city and highway driving. Its smaller size than the Rogue makes city traffic driving and parking a 'breeze'. Fuel economy continues to be rated at 28/25/32 (Combined/city/highway).
Our Rogue Sport SV model was well equipped with desirable features that included an optional Technology Package with heated front seats and steering wheel, remote start, intelligent climate control, heated side mirrors, Nissan connect with navigation, mobile apps and services, intelligent around view monitor and intelligent cruise control
Comfort and convenience features included 60/40 folding rear seats with 61.1 cubic feet (folded down) of cargo space with divide-n-hide cargo system, Nissan intelligent key with push button ignition and second row seat A/C vents. From an infotainment perspective, an AM/FM/CD audio system was provided with 5.0" color display and six speakers, UBS connection ports, Bluetooth and Sirius XM satellite radio.
Last, by most importantly, are the safety features of the Nissan Rogue Sport that include the usual array of front air bags, side impact and curtain air bags. Features also included were the automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, vehicle dynamic control and electronic brake force distribution.
BOTTOM LINE: All of the above features including the destination charge totaled $27,410. To do a true evaluation of your possible next vehicle purchase, it is definitely worth your time to take a trip to your Nissan dealer as over 400,000 buyers did in 2017.
Nissan has a real winner with their Rogue models as evidenced by their sales record of this model during the last several years. In 2016, 329,904 units were sold, Nissan's top selling model. During 2017, the Rogue model rang the bell at 403,465 units becoming the brand's first nameplate to top 400,000 US sales units in a calendar year. This was an increase of 22% from 2016.
On a comparative crossover segment basis, the Rogue held the #2 spot with a few thousand units short of the #1 position held by Toyota's RAV4 at 407,594 sold units. However, the Rogue continued with the 'pedal to the metal' logging 116,454 sales units in just the first quarter of 2018, taking the #1 spot for crossover sales. The Toyota RAV4 slipped to the #2 spot with 91,459 sales units.
The popularity of the Nissan Rogue continues with just-released sales results for the second quarter of 2018. The Rogue has retained its #1 crossover sales results with 215,202 units sold. In fact, of all vehicles sold in the second quarter, the Rogue holds the #4 position, only outpaced by truck sales from Ford, Chevrolet and Ram. This is quite an accomplishment, I must add!
For the 2018 Rogue Sport, the vehicle retains it smart looking body design, trim and features that have made it a popular choice for buyers.
The 2.0 liter DOHC 16-value inline 4-cylinder engine rated at 141 HP and 147 lb-ft of torque with ECO-mode remains the same. The engine is coupled with Nissan's X-tronic automatic transmission with manual shift mode. This drivetrain package provided us with spirited driving and handling in city and highway driving. Its smaller size than the Rogue makes city traffic driving and parking a 'breeze'. Fuel economy continues to be rated at 28/25/32 (Combined/city/highway).
Our Rogue Sport SV model was well equipped with desirable features that included an optional Technology Package with heated front seats and steering wheel, remote start, intelligent climate control, heated side mirrors, Nissan connect with navigation, mobile apps and services, intelligent around view monitor and intelligent cruise control
Comfort and convenience features included 60/40 folding rear seats with 61.1 cubic feet (folded down) of cargo space with divide-n-hide cargo system, Nissan intelligent key with push button ignition and second row seat A/C vents. From an infotainment perspective, an AM/FM/CD audio system was provided with 5.0" color display and six speakers, UBS connection ports, Bluetooth and Sirius XM satellite radio.
Last, by most importantly, are the safety features of the Nissan Rogue Sport that include the usual array of front air bags, side impact and curtain air bags. Features also included were the automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, vehicle dynamic control and electronic brake force distribution.
BOTTOM LINE: All of the above features including the destination charge totaled $27,410. To do a true evaluation of your possible next vehicle purchase, it is definitely worth your time to take a trip to your Nissan dealer as over 400,000 buyers did in 2017.
2019 Jeep Cherokee
By Jim Jackson
Jeep earns its stripes with a rugged reputation that has turned its inaugural U.S. military use into the nation’s most recognized sport utility vehicle.
Today, the brand fast-forwards into the next model year with the March arrival of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The redesigned Jeep Cherokee is built at Illinois’ Belvidere Assembly Plant, shipped in Latitude, Latitude Plus, Limited, Overland and off-road Trailhawk models starting at $25,190 with freight.
A 9-speed automatic transmission manages a base 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with 180 horsepower on Latitude models and a 3.2L V-6 that generates 271-hp for Limited, Overland and Trailhawk.
Jeep’s new 270-hp 2.0L turbocharged 4-cyliner engine is optional across the 2019 Cherokee lineup.
Front-wheel drive is standard. Trailhawk comes ‘Trail Rated’ with four-wheel drive only and is optional on other models.
Cherokee’s base Active Drive 1 application satisfies on demand 4WD use for urban dwellers. Active Drive 2 adds low-range and Neutral position for flat towing. Low-range gears and locking rear differential come with Cherokee’s Active Drive Lock system. All 4WD models get Jeep’s Selec-Terrain feature that enhances traction and control in snow, sand and mud. A Sport mode is part of the selection. Trailhawk receives an added “Rock” setting.
I had the opportunity to test Cherokee Trailhawk’s off-road grit through a rugged course in California’s Santa Monica Mountains.
The mid-size Cherokee’s agility and four-wheel mettle turned the boulder strewn course into a 3-mph fun-ride with exceptional control and handling.
Cherokee’s approach and departure angles are generous with no intrusion to front or rear bumper integrity. On this course however, underbody skid plates took a bounding, but protected vulnerable chassis and drivetrain components.
I also drove the 2.0-liter turbo and 3.2L V=6 in Sport mode across the hair-pin turns of Mulholland Highway overlooking Los Angeles en route to the off-road site.
Cherokee’s turning radius, smooth steering input and compliant suspension made for a safe driving experience on blacktop. Stopping performance is impressive with brake power provided by 13-inch vented front and 10.95-in solid rear rotors.
Power from both engines is spirited. But the intrusion of engine growl seeping into the cabin from the 2.0L in Sport mode is hard to ignore under power due to gear shifts holding longer when accelerating.
Once at speed the 2.0L engine noise settles to a comfortable level. The V6 is quieter under the same driving regiment.
Today, the brand fast-forwards into the next model year with the March arrival of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The redesigned Jeep Cherokee is built at Illinois’ Belvidere Assembly Plant, shipped in Latitude, Latitude Plus, Limited, Overland and off-road Trailhawk models starting at $25,190 with freight.
A 9-speed automatic transmission manages a base 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with 180 horsepower on Latitude models and a 3.2L V-6 that generates 271-hp for Limited, Overland and Trailhawk.
Jeep’s new 270-hp 2.0L turbocharged 4-cyliner engine is optional across the 2019 Cherokee lineup.
Front-wheel drive is standard. Trailhawk comes ‘Trail Rated’ with four-wheel drive only and is optional on other models.
Cherokee’s base Active Drive 1 application satisfies on demand 4WD use for urban dwellers. Active Drive 2 adds low-range and Neutral position for flat towing. Low-range gears and locking rear differential come with Cherokee’s Active Drive Lock system. All 4WD models get Jeep’s Selec-Terrain feature that enhances traction and control in snow, sand and mud. A Sport mode is part of the selection. Trailhawk receives an added “Rock” setting.
I had the opportunity to test Cherokee Trailhawk’s off-road grit through a rugged course in California’s Santa Monica Mountains.
The mid-size Cherokee’s agility and four-wheel mettle turned the boulder strewn course into a 3-mph fun-ride with exceptional control and handling.
Cherokee’s approach and departure angles are generous with no intrusion to front or rear bumper integrity. On this course however, underbody skid plates took a bounding, but protected vulnerable chassis and drivetrain components.
I also drove the 2.0-liter turbo and 3.2L V=6 in Sport mode across the hair-pin turns of Mulholland Highway overlooking Los Angeles en route to the off-road site.
Cherokee’s turning radius, smooth steering input and compliant suspension made for a safe driving experience on blacktop. Stopping performance is impressive with brake power provided by 13-inch vented front and 10.95-in solid rear rotors.
Power from both engines is spirited. But the intrusion of engine growl seeping into the cabin from the 2.0L in Sport mode is hard to ignore under power due to gear shifts holding longer when accelerating.
Once at speed the 2.0L engine noise settles to a comfortable level. The V6 is quieter under the same driving regiment.
2018 Volvo XC60 SUV
By Jim Jackson
This month’s arrival of Fall Equinox marks the start of cooler weather and the steady deterioration of road conditions. Standing ready for duty is the all-wheel drive 2018 Volvo XC60 crossover utility vehicle.
I tested the Swedish brand’s top-tier XC60 T6 AWD Inscription model and drove away impressed with its pep, stellar looks, and creature comfort.
Volvo’s T6 engine is infused with a 2.0-liter Supercharged Turbo-boosted 4-cylinder engine that builds a spirited 316 horsepower for exceptional off-line performance and passing power.
Fuel economy yields 21 miles per gallon in town and 27-mpg on the open road.
The base Volvo XC60 Momentum version comes with a turbocharged 2.0L T5 engine for 250-hp. Both engines are paired to a smooth shifting 8-speed automatic transmission.
For 2018, Volvo’s compact XC60 crossover mirrors a scaled down version of the brand’s mid-size XC90 sport utility in its design and functionality.
The most notable difference is passenger capacity as XC60 carries five occupants while the XC90 holds seven riders in a three row setting.
Volvo XC60 Inscription is positioned in the Premium Compact Crossover segment delivering an opulent cabin that is nothing short of First Class with glove soft leather upholstery, driftwood inlays, panoramic moonroof and a tailored dashboard with jewel-like controls. Interior space is inviting and offers real-world knee, hip and legroom comfort for four adults. Front and back seat headroom is excellent with easy access wide door openings.
Fit and finish is masterful inside and out lead by Scandinavian design that reflects its Swedish lineage with distinctive “Thor’s Hammer” running lights and curvaceous tail lamps that are among the tallest in the industry.
The XC60 Inscription also comes with 20-inch alloy wheels and All-Season tires that when combined with standard AWD brings an extra level of traction for drivers that travel through Lake Effect snow during their daily commute.
Ride quality regardless of road surface conditions is exceptional with select Drive Modes that customize XC60’s handling and performance.
Optional packages beyond the Inscription Features deliver and extensive list of convenience, vision, seat, audio and surrounding awareness niceties that quickly ramp up the $44,900 base price to $63,290 as tested plus $995 destination.
The 2018 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD Inscription is built in Gothenburg, Sweden.
I tested the Swedish brand’s top-tier XC60 T6 AWD Inscription model and drove away impressed with its pep, stellar looks, and creature comfort.
Volvo’s T6 engine is infused with a 2.0-liter Supercharged Turbo-boosted 4-cylinder engine that builds a spirited 316 horsepower for exceptional off-line performance and passing power.
Fuel economy yields 21 miles per gallon in town and 27-mpg on the open road.
The base Volvo XC60 Momentum version comes with a turbocharged 2.0L T5 engine for 250-hp. Both engines are paired to a smooth shifting 8-speed automatic transmission.
For 2018, Volvo’s compact XC60 crossover mirrors a scaled down version of the brand’s mid-size XC90 sport utility in its design and functionality.
The most notable difference is passenger capacity as XC60 carries five occupants while the XC90 holds seven riders in a three row setting.
Volvo XC60 Inscription is positioned in the Premium Compact Crossover segment delivering an opulent cabin that is nothing short of First Class with glove soft leather upholstery, driftwood inlays, panoramic moonroof and a tailored dashboard with jewel-like controls. Interior space is inviting and offers real-world knee, hip and legroom comfort for four adults. Front and back seat headroom is excellent with easy access wide door openings.
Fit and finish is masterful inside and out lead by Scandinavian design that reflects its Swedish lineage with distinctive “Thor’s Hammer” running lights and curvaceous tail lamps that are among the tallest in the industry.
The XC60 Inscription also comes with 20-inch alloy wheels and All-Season tires that when combined with standard AWD brings an extra level of traction for drivers that travel through Lake Effect snow during their daily commute.
Ride quality regardless of road surface conditions is exceptional with select Drive Modes that customize XC60’s handling and performance.
Optional packages beyond the Inscription Features deliver and extensive list of convenience, vision, seat, audio and surrounding awareness niceties that quickly ramp up the $44,900 base price to $63,290 as tested plus $995 destination.
The 2018 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD Inscription is built in Gothenburg, Sweden.
2019 Volvo XC40 SUV
By Jim Jackson
AUSTIN, Texas – Volvo rides the success of its Premium Sedan and Sport Utility Vehicle lineup with a down-sized newcomer.
Industry attention was turned to the Swedish automaker at this year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit where the 2018 Volvo XC60 was named, North American Utility of the Year.
Today’s spotlight is focused on a new sibling in the Volvo family with the premiere of the compact 2019 Volvo XC40 SUV. The 2019 Volvo XC40 slaps sassy design on Momentum and R-Design models with chiseled edges front to back, separating it from the sophisticated look of Volvo’s mid-size XC60 and larger XC90 SUV brethren.
A clamshell hood, angular front valance, flared rocker moldings and swaled rear end with curvaceous LED taillamps wrap XC40 in distinctive design to attract younger buyers to the brand.
Power is provided by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged T5 engine that builds 248 horsepower coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drivetrain.
The Volvo XC40 is fun to drive with a power-to-weight (3,820 lbs) ratio that catapults this feisty 4-door 0-60 miles per hour in 6.2 seconds.
Steering is light and responsive to deliver a confident connection with the road.
Eco, Comfort, Dynamic, Off-Road and Individual drive modes customize XC40’s performance response to suit the driver’s operating need.
The five passenger cabin carries Volvo’s signature clean design with linear surfaces accented by aluminum trim. Leather seats come standard. Available orange carpet and door trim adds an unorthodox flair to XC40’s youthful theme.
Care by Volvo
Equally unconventional, Volvo XC40 offers an unusual approach to ownership with introduction of the subscription-based Care by Volvo.
The program provides buyers specially-equipped 2019 XC40 Momentum or XC40 R-Design models for a $600 or $700 respective monthly payment that includes the price of the car, insurance by Liberty Mutual, 15,000 yearly mileage allowance and maintenance for 24 months. Buyers also have the opportunity to upgrade to a new XC40 and refreshed 24 month term after the first year of Care by Volvo participation.
Care by Volvo is an all-inclusive, no haggle, hassle-free on-line buying experience that eliminates the headaches and decisions typically associated with buying a new car.
The 2019 Volvo XC40 Momentum is priced at $34,195 with freight followed by XC40 R-Design at $36,695.
Industry attention was turned to the Swedish automaker at this year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit where the 2018 Volvo XC60 was named, North American Utility of the Year.
Today’s spotlight is focused on a new sibling in the Volvo family with the premiere of the compact 2019 Volvo XC40 SUV. The 2019 Volvo XC40 slaps sassy design on Momentum and R-Design models with chiseled edges front to back, separating it from the sophisticated look of Volvo’s mid-size XC60 and larger XC90 SUV brethren.
A clamshell hood, angular front valance, flared rocker moldings and swaled rear end with curvaceous LED taillamps wrap XC40 in distinctive design to attract younger buyers to the brand.
Power is provided by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged T5 engine that builds 248 horsepower coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drivetrain.
The Volvo XC40 is fun to drive with a power-to-weight (3,820 lbs) ratio that catapults this feisty 4-door 0-60 miles per hour in 6.2 seconds.
Steering is light and responsive to deliver a confident connection with the road.
Eco, Comfort, Dynamic, Off-Road and Individual drive modes customize XC40’s performance response to suit the driver’s operating need.
The five passenger cabin carries Volvo’s signature clean design with linear surfaces accented by aluminum trim. Leather seats come standard. Available orange carpet and door trim adds an unorthodox flair to XC40’s youthful theme.
Care by Volvo
Equally unconventional, Volvo XC40 offers an unusual approach to ownership with introduction of the subscription-based Care by Volvo.
The program provides buyers specially-equipped 2019 XC40 Momentum or XC40 R-Design models for a $600 or $700 respective monthly payment that includes the price of the car, insurance by Liberty Mutual, 15,000 yearly mileage allowance and maintenance for 24 months. Buyers also have the opportunity to upgrade to a new XC40 and refreshed 24 month term after the first year of Care by Volvo participation.
Care by Volvo is an all-inclusive, no haggle, hassle-free on-line buying experience that eliminates the headaches and decisions typically associated with buying a new car.
The 2019 Volvo XC40 Momentum is priced at $34,195 with freight followed by XC40 R-Design at $36,695.
2018 Jeep Wrangler
By Jim Jackson
TUCSON, Arizona - Jeep has been in an uphill climb since it debuted as the U.S. military-issue Willys-Overland 4X4 in 1941. And after 77-years, Jeep brand wouldn’t have it any other way.
For 2018, the iconic boulder-conquering Jeep Wrangler busts into the market as the latest evolution of the “go-anywhere” vehicle that forged American history and the modern day Sport Utility Vehicle segment.
Wrangler 2-door body styles are offered in Sport and Rubicon models with 4-door versions available in Sport, Rubicon and top-tier Sahara trim. Built in Toledo, Ohio, the fourth generation Wrangler gets its first redesign since 2006 with styling cues that harken back to Jeeps of yesteryear.
Staying true to form are round headlamps that etch into Jeep’s signature seven-slot grille, square tail lamps, fold-flat windshield and removable doors.
Jeep’s inherent open-air freedom comes with four different top configurations. Wrangler’s standard soft top is now zipper free, allowing owners use of a simplified tongue and grove fastener design that makes removing the side curtains and dropping the ragtop an easier task. Wrangler’s Sunrider soft top sunroof feature is a snap to release and opens for a skyward view for front occupants. A new Sky One-Touch power top, available on four-door models, retracts the canvas top the full length of the roof with a push of a button. Add an optional body-colored hardtop on Sahara and Rubicon models gives Wrangler a solid paint scheme front to back. A three piece modular T-top hardtop system offers choice for overhead open-air exposure.
Momentum is provided by 3.6-liter V-6 engine that generates 285 horsepower coupled to a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission.
A new 2.0L blends a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid eTorque technology to build 270-hp mated with an 8-speed only automatic to incorporate auto start/stop, electric power assist, intelligent battery charging and regenerative braking. The 2.0L turbo is very spirited and offers excellent road manners for daily use and weekend recreation.
Wrangler’s four-wheel drive comes with a Command-Trac system on Sport and Sahara with a part-time two-speed transfer case for easy mastery of winter in our region.
Off-road boulder climbing and Jeep’s Rock-Trac 4X4 system on Rubicon and new Select-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case for Sahara will help conquer Mother Nature’s backyard come spring.
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler spans the price spectrum from $26,995 to $40,465. Add $1195 for freight.
For 2018, the iconic boulder-conquering Jeep Wrangler busts into the market as the latest evolution of the “go-anywhere” vehicle that forged American history and the modern day Sport Utility Vehicle segment.
Wrangler 2-door body styles are offered in Sport and Rubicon models with 4-door versions available in Sport, Rubicon and top-tier Sahara trim. Built in Toledo, Ohio, the fourth generation Wrangler gets its first redesign since 2006 with styling cues that harken back to Jeeps of yesteryear.
Staying true to form are round headlamps that etch into Jeep’s signature seven-slot grille, square tail lamps, fold-flat windshield and removable doors.
Jeep’s inherent open-air freedom comes with four different top configurations. Wrangler’s standard soft top is now zipper free, allowing owners use of a simplified tongue and grove fastener design that makes removing the side curtains and dropping the ragtop an easier task. Wrangler’s Sunrider soft top sunroof feature is a snap to release and opens for a skyward view for front occupants. A new Sky One-Touch power top, available on four-door models, retracts the canvas top the full length of the roof with a push of a button. Add an optional body-colored hardtop on Sahara and Rubicon models gives Wrangler a solid paint scheme front to back. A three piece modular T-top hardtop system offers choice for overhead open-air exposure.
Momentum is provided by 3.6-liter V-6 engine that generates 285 horsepower coupled to a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission.
A new 2.0L blends a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid eTorque technology to build 270-hp mated with an 8-speed only automatic to incorporate auto start/stop, electric power assist, intelligent battery charging and regenerative braking. The 2.0L turbo is very spirited and offers excellent road manners for daily use and weekend recreation.
Wrangler’s four-wheel drive comes with a Command-Trac system on Sport and Sahara with a part-time two-speed transfer case for easy mastery of winter in our region.
Off-road boulder climbing and Jeep’s Rock-Trac 4X4 system on Rubicon and new Select-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case for Sahara will help conquer Mother Nature’s backyard come spring.
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler spans the price spectrum from $26,995 to $40,465. Add $1195 for freight.
2018 Jaguar XF Sportbrake
By Jim Jackson
Name aside, the 2018 Jaguar XF Sportbrake is a station wagon version of the British brand’s midsize XF 4-door sedan. The “Sportbrake” moniker loosely references a motorized wagon-style carryall from yesteryear that transported blueblood sportsmen to hunting grounds on large English estates.
Today, stunning bodylines track Sportbrake’s squat window treatment, long sweeping roofline and road-hugging stance for a stylized sport wagon that blends a premium sedan with the cargo capacity of an SUV.
Jaguar’s XF Sportbrake is new for 2018 arriving in First Edition and S trim levels.
The wagon comes standard with all-wheel drive giving Sportbrake year-round traction and handling teamed to a 380 horsepower supercharged V6 engine.
I tested the XF Sportbrake S model priced at $70,450. The First Edition starts at $72,100 with select technology features and upgraded audio system.
The 3.0 liter engine pairs well with Sportbrake’s 4045 pound weight delivering brisk acceleration off the line and when passing.
At first glance, the wagon’s taut profile gives the impression that ride quality is sacrificed for its ground-pounding looks. Not so.
Sportbrake’s road manners are very compliant courtesy of sport-tuned underpinnings up front and rear self-leveling air suspension managed by Normal, Eco or Dynamic drive modes. Normal mode delivers a comfortable ride for daily use. Selecting the Dynamic setting firms the steering feel and maps the 8-speed automatic transmission for sportier shifts. However, the suspension is also tightened bringing more awareness of road surface blemishes.
A prudent throttle and Eco mode yields 18 miles per gallon in town and 25 mpg on the Interstate.
Jaguar’s wagon carries 5-occupants and exceptional cargo space with 31.7 cubic feet of volume behind the second row. Lowering the 40/20/40 split-rear seat creates a flat load floor and 69.7 cu-ft of capacity.
Sportbrake S includes a power-assisted hands-free liftgate with integrated spoiler, oversize panoramic sunroof, S body kit with gloss black roof rails and lower body trim, 20-inch wheels, red-painted brake calipers and S-specific bumper treatments.
Inside, an upscale cabin with standard leather upholstery, heated steering wheel and leading-edge safety and technology features keep Sportbrake contemporary with its throwback station wagon demeanor.
The 2018 Jaguar XF Sportbrake wagon meets the expectation of buyers interested in having a different conversation about an alternative to the commonplace sport utility vehicle.
Today, stunning bodylines track Sportbrake’s squat window treatment, long sweeping roofline and road-hugging stance for a stylized sport wagon that blends a premium sedan with the cargo capacity of an SUV.
Jaguar’s XF Sportbrake is new for 2018 arriving in First Edition and S trim levels.
The wagon comes standard with all-wheel drive giving Sportbrake year-round traction and handling teamed to a 380 horsepower supercharged V6 engine.
I tested the XF Sportbrake S model priced at $70,450. The First Edition starts at $72,100 with select technology features and upgraded audio system.
The 3.0 liter engine pairs well with Sportbrake’s 4045 pound weight delivering brisk acceleration off the line and when passing.
At first glance, the wagon’s taut profile gives the impression that ride quality is sacrificed for its ground-pounding looks. Not so.
Sportbrake’s road manners are very compliant courtesy of sport-tuned underpinnings up front and rear self-leveling air suspension managed by Normal, Eco or Dynamic drive modes. Normal mode delivers a comfortable ride for daily use. Selecting the Dynamic setting firms the steering feel and maps the 8-speed automatic transmission for sportier shifts. However, the suspension is also tightened bringing more awareness of road surface blemishes.
A prudent throttle and Eco mode yields 18 miles per gallon in town and 25 mpg on the Interstate.
Jaguar’s wagon carries 5-occupants and exceptional cargo space with 31.7 cubic feet of volume behind the second row. Lowering the 40/20/40 split-rear seat creates a flat load floor and 69.7 cu-ft of capacity.
Sportbrake S includes a power-assisted hands-free liftgate with integrated spoiler, oversize panoramic sunroof, S body kit with gloss black roof rails and lower body trim, 20-inch wheels, red-painted brake calipers and S-specific bumper treatments.
Inside, an upscale cabin with standard leather upholstery, heated steering wheel and leading-edge safety and technology features keep Sportbrake contemporary with its throwback station wagon demeanor.
The 2018 Jaguar XF Sportbrake wagon meets the expectation of buyers interested in having a different conversation about an alternative to the commonplace sport utility vehicle.
2018 Toyota C-HR XLE Premium
by Bob Kroupa
by Bob Kroupa
When the new C-HR Toyota sub-compact crossover arrived it quickly became apparent this was not your traditionally styled crossover like so many in today's marketplace.
During the design phase of the C-HR, Toyota's global design team established their guiding theme "Distinctive Diamond". A diamond is said to evokes luxury, attractiveness, sophistication and strength. Toyota's crack design team translated these traits into a physical design theme for the C-HR that is collectively matchless, sexy, muscular and edgy.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! This unique design has it all with its muscular stance with wraparound slim projector-beam halogen headlights and LED daytime running lights that extend to over the wheel wells; bold tail lights that provide a wing-like rear appearance; and, upper recessed rear door handles. Adding to the WOW! factor were the 18" vortex-styled sport alloy wheels.
Our C-HR was built with the optional R-Code, a color (Ruby Flare Pearl) keyed body with a White roof and matching White foldable side view mirrors, a really nice contrasting touch to the body paint. This option gave the C-HR a 'retro' look that took us back to the 1950's and 1960's when two-tone paints were in vogue. 'What goes around, comes around!', so to speak.
All the justification we needed for this truly new design were in comments we received as we showcased the C-HR in our 'around town' drive and parking experience. Options ranged from, "Nice car!" to "What is that?!" questioning the exterior styling. Our vote goes to...WELL DONE!
Opening the driver's door we were treated to a well-laid out dash with well marked, convenient touch and button controls. Heat and A/C vents were perfectly placed with adjustable control knobs. A permanently mounted 7" audio display was the centerpiece on top of the dash that provided a clear vision of the road, nicely built into the 'flow' of the dash. Included in the dash were an AM/FM/HD radio, 6-speakers, AUX/USB ports with iPod connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth. Also a 4.2" color multi-information display was located between the tachometer and speedometer. The dash also included an oversized glove box for driver and passenger storage convenience.
Front high quality, heated, bolstered bucket seats were designed to keep passengers snug and comfortable - nicely done and very appreciated! The interior was covered with soft-touch materials, however, the driver's side of the center console was not covered, a key miss. It would have been great for the driver's right leg to have been able to rest comfortably during longer drives.
With the unique C-HR body design, the rear seat provided ample leg and head clearance room for the rear passengers. The folding 60/40 rear seats provided plenty of storage room at 19.0 cubic feet behind the seats and 36.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
The C-HR is powered by a 2.0 liter, 4 cylinder DOHC 16 valve engine pumping out 144 HP. The engine sends all the power to the front wheels via the Continuously Variable Transmission with intelligence and Shift mode. An all-wheel drive option is not available.
Our road trip of 132 miles provided city, country and Interstate roads allowing us to experience all aspects of the drivetrain. City driving and parking was a breeze as the C-HR is the 'right size' to maneuver into any parking opportunity. Entering the Interstate posted at 70 MPH we found the engine adequate to getting up to speed, however, a turbo option would have better met our acceleration requirements. On country roads, including sharp turns, the C-HR exceeded expectations with its ability to handle the turns and braking while leaving the driver with a safe and secure feeling. From a fuel perspective our 132 miles of test driving provided 28.7 MPG. The Toyota folks show 29/27/31 for combined/city/highway MPG.
This XLE Premium model was well equipped with important safety features that included Toyota's Advanced Air Bag System 10 total, their standard Toyota Safety Sense P with Pre-Collision System with Active Braking, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist function, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Camera Display in the rear view mirror.
The base C-HR XLE price is $22,500 (not including destination charges) and our test vehicle, the C-HR XLE Premium, had a base price of $24,350 with the bottom-line, all inclusive price of $27,128.
BOTTON LINE: If you are looking for a compact crossover that is unique and attention getting, a visit to your nearest Toyota dealer is definitely in order.
During the design phase of the C-HR, Toyota's global design team established their guiding theme "Distinctive Diamond". A diamond is said to evokes luxury, attractiveness, sophistication and strength. Toyota's crack design team translated these traits into a physical design theme for the C-HR that is collectively matchless, sexy, muscular and edgy.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! This unique design has it all with its muscular stance with wraparound slim projector-beam halogen headlights and LED daytime running lights that extend to over the wheel wells; bold tail lights that provide a wing-like rear appearance; and, upper recessed rear door handles. Adding to the WOW! factor were the 18" vortex-styled sport alloy wheels.
Our C-HR was built with the optional R-Code, a color (Ruby Flare Pearl) keyed body with a White roof and matching White foldable side view mirrors, a really nice contrasting touch to the body paint. This option gave the C-HR a 'retro' look that took us back to the 1950's and 1960's when two-tone paints were in vogue. 'What goes around, comes around!', so to speak.
All the justification we needed for this truly new design were in comments we received as we showcased the C-HR in our 'around town' drive and parking experience. Options ranged from, "Nice car!" to "What is that?!" questioning the exterior styling. Our vote goes to...WELL DONE!
Opening the driver's door we were treated to a well-laid out dash with well marked, convenient touch and button controls. Heat and A/C vents were perfectly placed with adjustable control knobs. A permanently mounted 7" audio display was the centerpiece on top of the dash that provided a clear vision of the road, nicely built into the 'flow' of the dash. Included in the dash were an AM/FM/HD radio, 6-speakers, AUX/USB ports with iPod connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth. Also a 4.2" color multi-information display was located between the tachometer and speedometer. The dash also included an oversized glove box for driver and passenger storage convenience.
Front high quality, heated, bolstered bucket seats were designed to keep passengers snug and comfortable - nicely done and very appreciated! The interior was covered with soft-touch materials, however, the driver's side of the center console was not covered, a key miss. It would have been great for the driver's right leg to have been able to rest comfortably during longer drives.
With the unique C-HR body design, the rear seat provided ample leg and head clearance room for the rear passengers. The folding 60/40 rear seats provided plenty of storage room at 19.0 cubic feet behind the seats and 36.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
The C-HR is powered by a 2.0 liter, 4 cylinder DOHC 16 valve engine pumping out 144 HP. The engine sends all the power to the front wheels via the Continuously Variable Transmission with intelligence and Shift mode. An all-wheel drive option is not available.
Our road trip of 132 miles provided city, country and Interstate roads allowing us to experience all aspects of the drivetrain. City driving and parking was a breeze as the C-HR is the 'right size' to maneuver into any parking opportunity. Entering the Interstate posted at 70 MPH we found the engine adequate to getting up to speed, however, a turbo option would have better met our acceleration requirements. On country roads, including sharp turns, the C-HR exceeded expectations with its ability to handle the turns and braking while leaving the driver with a safe and secure feeling. From a fuel perspective our 132 miles of test driving provided 28.7 MPG. The Toyota folks show 29/27/31 for combined/city/highway MPG.
This XLE Premium model was well equipped with important safety features that included Toyota's Advanced Air Bag System 10 total, their standard Toyota Safety Sense P with Pre-Collision System with Active Braking, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist function, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Camera Display in the rear view mirror.
The base C-HR XLE price is $22,500 (not including destination charges) and our test vehicle, the C-HR XLE Premium, had a base price of $24,350 with the bottom-line, all inclusive price of $27,128.
BOTTON LINE: If you are looking for a compact crossover that is unique and attention getting, a visit to your nearest Toyota dealer is definitely in order.
2018 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SPORT SEL AWC
By Bob Kroupa
As 2017 was drawing to a close, numerous manufacturers were offering special Holiday pricing programs. One notable example was from Mitsubishi which offered their Outlander and Outlander Sport with an eye-catching base price of $19,795 (Sport) and a class-leading warranty for their entire product line.
The calendar year 2017 for Mitsubishi Motors was up 7.7% over 2016 with sales of 103,686 units. This was the fifth consecutive calendar year their sales increased. In addition, the adventurous Outlander Sport posted the best December sales month since the launch of the vehicle in 2010 with 3,678 unit sales for a total of 33,160 units sold.
We recently had the privilege of test-driving the Outlander Sport SEL AWC (all wheel control). Upon arrival, our 'walk-around' of the Sport reflected a new neatly designed front grill trimmed with heavy chrome accents, lower mesh grill and LED running lights; and, heated and power folding side view mirrors with turn signal displays. Well done! Dressing up the side profile are 18" two-tone alloy wheels, roof rails and a shark fin antenna. The rear styling includes a new horizontal chrome strip connected to the tail-lights with a skid pad below the bumper.
The interior was well equipped with functional and convenience features, all included in the SEL AWC price of $25,895 - quite a value! The features included new center console design with padded knee strip, new shift lever, soft touch interior trim, leather seats and bright aluminum brake and accelerator pedals.
From an infotainment perspective, we found a new 7" touch-screen system with Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Sirius Radio, USB ports and a back-up camera, a perfect partner of the 7" screen.
The rear 60/40 folding rear seats with heater floor ducts had ample room for the rear passengers. With the rear seats folded down, there was 49.5 cubic feet of cargospace available.
Our test-drive was timely with a planned Holiday visit to Asheville, NC logging 479 miles of mostly Interstate driving. The Sport provided a comfortable ride especially with our heated seats and the vehicle handled well with electronic steering power programmed perfectly.
Our Compact Crossover "Sport" was powered by a 2.4 liter MIVEC DOHC 16 valve, 4 Cylinder engine rated at 168 HP. It was coupled with a new generation Continuously Variable Transmission with Paddle Shifters. The engine is adequate for the vehicle in normal traffic, however when the Sport is in a 'passing mode', more power would ease the task. Possibly, it might be time for a turbo consideration.
As a side note, we recorded 27.5 MPG on our trip, a bit low considering the majority of our driving was on the Interstate. Out vehicle was equipped with all-wheel drive that provided us with a safety factor for mountain driving. The good news was, there was no inclement weather other than a bit of drizzle which was cleared up nicely with the Rain Sensing Wipers. A unique feature of the AWC system is a switch on the center console that allows switching from AWD to front-wheel drive only.
Adding to the pleasure of the road trip was the $2,000 Touring Package that included a 710 Watt Rockford Fosgate Premium Audio System with nine speakers. A Panoramic Glass Roof extended increased overhead mountain viewing for the rear passenger as well as adjustable LED mood-lighting. From a safety perspective, the 'package' also included Forward Collision Mitigation and Lane Departure Warning.
The Sport had seven advanced air-bags including driver's side knee air bag; dual stage front air-bags with occupant seat position sensors; front seat mounted side-impact air-bags; and, front and rear curtain side air-bags. Included in the Safety category was Active Stability Control and Traction Control Logic which would have been very handy had there been ice.
A major factor in a purchase consideration is Mitsubishi's class-leading warranty that includes a fully transferable 5-year/60,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty.
The bottom line price of our test vehicle was $29,110. In our estimation, the Mitsubishi Sport SEL AWC provides a considerable amount of value for a feature-rich Crossover for under $30,000.
The calendar year 2017 for Mitsubishi Motors was up 7.7% over 2016 with sales of 103,686 units. This was the fifth consecutive calendar year their sales increased. In addition, the adventurous Outlander Sport posted the best December sales month since the launch of the vehicle in 2010 with 3,678 unit sales for a total of 33,160 units sold.
We recently had the privilege of test-driving the Outlander Sport SEL AWC (all wheel control). Upon arrival, our 'walk-around' of the Sport reflected a new neatly designed front grill trimmed with heavy chrome accents, lower mesh grill and LED running lights; and, heated and power folding side view mirrors with turn signal displays. Well done! Dressing up the side profile are 18" two-tone alloy wheels, roof rails and a shark fin antenna. The rear styling includes a new horizontal chrome strip connected to the tail-lights with a skid pad below the bumper.
The interior was well equipped with functional and convenience features, all included in the SEL AWC price of $25,895 - quite a value! The features included new center console design with padded knee strip, new shift lever, soft touch interior trim, leather seats and bright aluminum brake and accelerator pedals.
From an infotainment perspective, we found a new 7" touch-screen system with Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Sirius Radio, USB ports and a back-up camera, a perfect partner of the 7" screen.
The rear 60/40 folding rear seats with heater floor ducts had ample room for the rear passengers. With the rear seats folded down, there was 49.5 cubic feet of cargospace available.
Our test-drive was timely with a planned Holiday visit to Asheville, NC logging 479 miles of mostly Interstate driving. The Sport provided a comfortable ride especially with our heated seats and the vehicle handled well with electronic steering power programmed perfectly.
Our Compact Crossover "Sport" was powered by a 2.4 liter MIVEC DOHC 16 valve, 4 Cylinder engine rated at 168 HP. It was coupled with a new generation Continuously Variable Transmission with Paddle Shifters. The engine is adequate for the vehicle in normal traffic, however when the Sport is in a 'passing mode', more power would ease the task. Possibly, it might be time for a turbo consideration.
As a side note, we recorded 27.5 MPG on our trip, a bit low considering the majority of our driving was on the Interstate. Out vehicle was equipped with all-wheel drive that provided us with a safety factor for mountain driving. The good news was, there was no inclement weather other than a bit of drizzle which was cleared up nicely with the Rain Sensing Wipers. A unique feature of the AWC system is a switch on the center console that allows switching from AWD to front-wheel drive only.
Adding to the pleasure of the road trip was the $2,000 Touring Package that included a 710 Watt Rockford Fosgate Premium Audio System with nine speakers. A Panoramic Glass Roof extended increased overhead mountain viewing for the rear passenger as well as adjustable LED mood-lighting. From a safety perspective, the 'package' also included Forward Collision Mitigation and Lane Departure Warning.
The Sport had seven advanced air-bags including driver's side knee air bag; dual stage front air-bags with occupant seat position sensors; front seat mounted side-impact air-bags; and, front and rear curtain side air-bags. Included in the Safety category was Active Stability Control and Traction Control Logic which would have been very handy had there been ice.
A major factor in a purchase consideration is Mitsubishi's class-leading warranty that includes a fully transferable 5-year/60,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty.
The bottom line price of our test vehicle was $29,110. In our estimation, the Mitsubishi Sport SEL AWC provides a considerable amount of value for a feature-rich Crossover for under $30,000.
2017 MAZDA CX5 GRAND TOURING AWD CROSSOVER
By Bob Kroupa
By Bob Kroupa
Some time ago I thought as to what would be an ideal vehicle to own that had all the functionality I wanted at the right price. My initial thoughts were it would need to be a 4-door vehicle to accommodate a minimum of four adults; have a drivetrain that would be roadworthy in all types of weather conditions like an AWD; have an engine that would have ample power and a automatic transmission; and, the MPG should approach the 30 MPG mark.
I also thought it should include the all important safety feature of the usual array of airbags, child seat safety tethers, and - at a minimum, blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control with automatic breaking and a rear view camera.
I wanted the base price point to not exceed $30,000 and include a drivetrain warranty with a minimum of 4 year/50,000 miles.
Upon further reflection, I decided I wanted cabin features to include Bluetooth, NAV, USB input, Sirius XM Radio, an upgraded sound system heated front seats, 40/60 folding rear seats and a large cargo area with a rear hatch. This was quite a 'wish list' for only $30,000!
But then I added, as not a prerequisite to be included in the $30,000, my favorite feature, a heads up display, and a moon roof and a heated steering wheel. Then I hoped that Santa was listening carefully!
I knew at some future date I would review my 'position paper' and remember 'back in the day when that was all I wanted'.
Now for the real story. A few weeks ago, the folks at Mazda sent me their compact CX5 AWD Grand Touring Crossover for my weekly test drive, an impressive vehicle I might add.
The 2017 CX5 is second generation model building upon the reputation of the first generation model that was Mazda's sale leader. Sales for the 2016 calendar year was 112,235 units and mid-year 2017 sales results are on a projection to exceed the first generation CX5 results.
Quite notable to us was the immediate curb appeal of the 2017 CX5 dressed out in Soul Red Crystal exterior paint with its chrome strip surrounding the grill and integrated into the full LED headlights. The LED lighting display is also included in the fog lights and rear taillights. The roof line tapers to the rear of the vehicle enhancing its design appeal and does not hamper interior head room. Add the 19" alloy wheels and we were certainly looking at a WOW! factor in our driveway.
The cabin is well designed with simple, easy to use controls for the driver. Mazda's Connect 7" touch-screen is mounted on top of the dashboard. In addition a Commander control knob operates the infotainment display that includes AM/FM/HD radio, Sirius XM radio, NAV, vehicle diagnostics, backup camera, Bluetooth, audio integration, Bose 10 speakers audio and USB ports for phone connectivity and charging.
Front heated bucket seats with suede inserts and power controls are quite attractive and comfortable. In addition, the front cabin has an abundance of storage space. Looking up I found my moon roof!
The rear passengers have not been neglected and are provided with heated seats for the outward positions, two reclining settings and fast charging USB ports. The rear seats have a 40/20/40 split folding feature. Cargo space is 39.9 cubic feet with the second row of seats in place and 59.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Plenty of storage space!
Our CX5 was powered by Mazda's 2.5 liter, four cylinder SKYACTIV-G engine rated at 187 HP, 185 lb/ft torque. The transmission was a SKYACTIV-DRIVE 6-speed automatic and iACTIV All Wheel Drive.
From a safety perspective our CX5 was well equipped including the advanced dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags and front/rear side air curtains. Additional features included Blind Sport Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist and Mazda's Radar Cruise Control.
After reviewing the safety specs, we felt comfortable in taking our test drive around town. This was easily done with smooth acceleration partially due to the bottom hinged acceleration pedal. The size of the CX5 with its perfect turning radius and rear camera made parking an non-issue.
Entry to our posted 70 MPH Interstate was accomplished with ease and merging into traffic with Mazda's 187 HP and 185 lb.-ft. of torque was smooth. One of our favorite features, a Active Driving Display on the lower front windshield displayed our digital speed and traffic signage.
Our country road test included traversing winding roads in which the G-Vectoring Control system provided engine timing to control chassis dynamics with smoother, more accurate steering inputs. These led to greater confidence and control for the driver. Also, note worthy was the rain we encountered; the rain-sensing windshield wipers worked perfectly adjusting their speed without any input from the driver. As nightfall approached, our vision was enhanced by the LED headlights that swiveled with the movement of the heated steering wheel.
Our MPG on the road trip was 27.9. The EPA/DOT report show 23/29/26 (city/highway/combined). The Mazda Powertrain Warranty is 60 month/60,000 miles and the Bumper to Bumper Warranty is 36 months/36,000 miles.
Base price for our CX5 with virtually all of the features mentioned was $30,695. Not included was the Soul Red Paint @ $595, a Premium Package at $1,830 that included Driver Seat Memory, 6-way Power Front Passenger Seat, Heated Rear Seats, Heated Steering Wheel, Active Driving Display and Windshield Wiper De-Icer. The delivery charge was $940 for a total price of $34,060.
After experiencing the numerous standard features of the Mazda CX5 for $30,695, a bell rang in my head and I went into my archives to review my 'Ideal Vehicle' position paper written months before. It looks to me like Mazda has exceeded my expectations and even added a few more features.
BOTTOM LINE: A trip to your local Mazda Dealer is recommended for a first-hand look at their 2017 CX5 Crossover!
I also thought it should include the all important safety feature of the usual array of airbags, child seat safety tethers, and - at a minimum, blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control with automatic breaking and a rear view camera.
I wanted the base price point to not exceed $30,000 and include a drivetrain warranty with a minimum of 4 year/50,000 miles.
Upon further reflection, I decided I wanted cabin features to include Bluetooth, NAV, USB input, Sirius XM Radio, an upgraded sound system heated front seats, 40/60 folding rear seats and a large cargo area with a rear hatch. This was quite a 'wish list' for only $30,000!
But then I added, as not a prerequisite to be included in the $30,000, my favorite feature, a heads up display, and a moon roof and a heated steering wheel. Then I hoped that Santa was listening carefully!
I knew at some future date I would review my 'position paper' and remember 'back in the day when that was all I wanted'.
Now for the real story. A few weeks ago, the folks at Mazda sent me their compact CX5 AWD Grand Touring Crossover for my weekly test drive, an impressive vehicle I might add.
The 2017 CX5 is second generation model building upon the reputation of the first generation model that was Mazda's sale leader. Sales for the 2016 calendar year was 112,235 units and mid-year 2017 sales results are on a projection to exceed the first generation CX5 results.
Quite notable to us was the immediate curb appeal of the 2017 CX5 dressed out in Soul Red Crystal exterior paint with its chrome strip surrounding the grill and integrated into the full LED headlights. The LED lighting display is also included in the fog lights and rear taillights. The roof line tapers to the rear of the vehicle enhancing its design appeal and does not hamper interior head room. Add the 19" alloy wheels and we were certainly looking at a WOW! factor in our driveway.
The cabin is well designed with simple, easy to use controls for the driver. Mazda's Connect 7" touch-screen is mounted on top of the dashboard. In addition a Commander control knob operates the infotainment display that includes AM/FM/HD radio, Sirius XM radio, NAV, vehicle diagnostics, backup camera, Bluetooth, audio integration, Bose 10 speakers audio and USB ports for phone connectivity and charging.
Front heated bucket seats with suede inserts and power controls are quite attractive and comfortable. In addition, the front cabin has an abundance of storage space. Looking up I found my moon roof!
The rear passengers have not been neglected and are provided with heated seats for the outward positions, two reclining settings and fast charging USB ports. The rear seats have a 40/20/40 split folding feature. Cargo space is 39.9 cubic feet with the second row of seats in place and 59.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Plenty of storage space!
Our CX5 was powered by Mazda's 2.5 liter, four cylinder SKYACTIV-G engine rated at 187 HP, 185 lb/ft torque. The transmission was a SKYACTIV-DRIVE 6-speed automatic and iACTIV All Wheel Drive.
From a safety perspective our CX5 was well equipped including the advanced dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags and front/rear side air curtains. Additional features included Blind Sport Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist and Mazda's Radar Cruise Control.
After reviewing the safety specs, we felt comfortable in taking our test drive around town. This was easily done with smooth acceleration partially due to the bottom hinged acceleration pedal. The size of the CX5 with its perfect turning radius and rear camera made parking an non-issue.
Entry to our posted 70 MPH Interstate was accomplished with ease and merging into traffic with Mazda's 187 HP and 185 lb.-ft. of torque was smooth. One of our favorite features, a Active Driving Display on the lower front windshield displayed our digital speed and traffic signage.
Our country road test included traversing winding roads in which the G-Vectoring Control system provided engine timing to control chassis dynamics with smoother, more accurate steering inputs. These led to greater confidence and control for the driver. Also, note worthy was the rain we encountered; the rain-sensing windshield wipers worked perfectly adjusting their speed without any input from the driver. As nightfall approached, our vision was enhanced by the LED headlights that swiveled with the movement of the heated steering wheel.
Our MPG on the road trip was 27.9. The EPA/DOT report show 23/29/26 (city/highway/combined). The Mazda Powertrain Warranty is 60 month/60,000 miles and the Bumper to Bumper Warranty is 36 months/36,000 miles.
Base price for our CX5 with virtually all of the features mentioned was $30,695. Not included was the Soul Red Paint @ $595, a Premium Package at $1,830 that included Driver Seat Memory, 6-way Power Front Passenger Seat, Heated Rear Seats, Heated Steering Wheel, Active Driving Display and Windshield Wiper De-Icer. The delivery charge was $940 for a total price of $34,060.
After experiencing the numerous standard features of the Mazda CX5 for $30,695, a bell rang in my head and I went into my archives to review my 'Ideal Vehicle' position paper written months before. It looks to me like Mazda has exceeded my expectations and even added a few more features.
BOTTOM LINE: A trip to your local Mazda Dealer is recommended for a first-hand look at their 2017 CX5 Crossover!
2017 FORD EDGE SPORT AWD
By Bob Kroupa
By Bob Kroupa
Our arrival for this report was the mid-size SUV 2017 Ford Edge Sport AWD. Our usual approach upon arrival s a quick walk around the vehicle and a complete scan of the nomenclature. Immediately noted was the powertrain, the 2.7 liter V6 Econoboost twin-turbo engine pumping out 315 HP. The engines was coupled with Ford's 6-speed automatic transmission. Having recently driven the 2017 Ford Fusion sedan with a similar drivetrain setup, we knew a real treat was ahead for our test drive of the Edge Sport AWD.
The exterior color of our Edge Sport was a bright Canyon Ridge Metallic set off by the painted 21" aluminum wheels. The dynamic clean look of the Black horizontal grill with active shutters, wraparound LED headlights and the smooth lines of the side panels add to an aerodynamic 'curb' profile.
Opening the cabin door we were struck by the WOW! factor with the appearance of heated and cooled leather trimmed bucket seats, door panels (soft to the touch), a center stack with arm rest, a well positioned instrument panel and LED Ambient Lighting that illuminated the front and rear foot wells, front cup holders, door handles and center console. For that special custom touch, an array of seven interior lighting colors are available for your selection to fit your mood by simply changing the program setting.
From an infotainment perspective, our Sport was well equipped with the likes of Ford's Sync3 System with an 8" touch screen, voice-active touch screen NAV system, HD and Sirius XM radio, Sony 12 speaker audio system, Bluetooth and USB ports.
The rear of the Sport has an abundance of room, seating three adults with comfortable heated seating. The 60/40 seat configuration provides access to the rear cargo area providing a whopping 73.4 cubic feet of carrying space when the second row is folded down by a rear power button.
Our drive in the city was effortless, providing ample power when required. Parking a larger SUV can be problematic, however, not with the Edge Sport. It was equipped with Ford's Enhanced Active Park Assist System as well as the split view rear camera.
The Interstate leg of our test drive 'activated' the 315 HP, 2.7 liter V6 Econoboost twin turbo engine. The recorded 0-60 MPH in 5.6 seconds brought us up to speed quickly as we entered the posted 70 MPH Interstate.
Our leg of driving the country mountain roads put the Sport's AWD and sport tuned suspension to the test providing safe handling in the turns with the included controlled steering.
The road trip of 200 miles provided us with an average of 22.5 MPG. EPA/DOT specs reflect 17/24/20 (city/highway/combined" MPG.
Safety is always an important part of the test drive and the Edge is enhanced with an array of airbags that included a driver's knee bag and front passenger glove box bag. Also the rear outboard seating had the inflatable seat belts for extra comfortable safety.
Other safety features included Blind Spot, Land Keeping, Adaptive Cruise Control/Collision Warning and Post Crash Alert Systems.
The base price of our test vehicle was $40,900; options and destination brought the total price to $46,980.
BOTTOM LINE: The Ford Edge Sport AWD is definitely worthy of a visit to your local Ford dealer for a 'hands-on' test drive.
The exterior color of our Edge Sport was a bright Canyon Ridge Metallic set off by the painted 21" aluminum wheels. The dynamic clean look of the Black horizontal grill with active shutters, wraparound LED headlights and the smooth lines of the side panels add to an aerodynamic 'curb' profile.
Opening the cabin door we were struck by the WOW! factor with the appearance of heated and cooled leather trimmed bucket seats, door panels (soft to the touch), a center stack with arm rest, a well positioned instrument panel and LED Ambient Lighting that illuminated the front and rear foot wells, front cup holders, door handles and center console. For that special custom touch, an array of seven interior lighting colors are available for your selection to fit your mood by simply changing the program setting.
From an infotainment perspective, our Sport was well equipped with the likes of Ford's Sync3 System with an 8" touch screen, voice-active touch screen NAV system, HD and Sirius XM radio, Sony 12 speaker audio system, Bluetooth and USB ports.
The rear of the Sport has an abundance of room, seating three adults with comfortable heated seating. The 60/40 seat configuration provides access to the rear cargo area providing a whopping 73.4 cubic feet of carrying space when the second row is folded down by a rear power button.
Our drive in the city was effortless, providing ample power when required. Parking a larger SUV can be problematic, however, not with the Edge Sport. It was equipped with Ford's Enhanced Active Park Assist System as well as the split view rear camera.
The Interstate leg of our test drive 'activated' the 315 HP, 2.7 liter V6 Econoboost twin turbo engine. The recorded 0-60 MPH in 5.6 seconds brought us up to speed quickly as we entered the posted 70 MPH Interstate.
Our leg of driving the country mountain roads put the Sport's AWD and sport tuned suspension to the test providing safe handling in the turns with the included controlled steering.
The road trip of 200 miles provided us with an average of 22.5 MPG. EPA/DOT specs reflect 17/24/20 (city/highway/combined" MPG.
Safety is always an important part of the test drive and the Edge is enhanced with an array of airbags that included a driver's knee bag and front passenger glove box bag. Also the rear outboard seating had the inflatable seat belts for extra comfortable safety.
Other safety features included Blind Spot, Land Keeping, Adaptive Cruise Control/Collision Warning and Post Crash Alert Systems.
The base price of our test vehicle was $40,900; options and destination brought the total price to $46,980.
BOTTOM LINE: The Ford Edge Sport AWD is definitely worthy of a visit to your local Ford dealer for a 'hands-on' test drive.
2017 Hyundai Tucson Night AWD
by Bob Kroupa
by Bob Kroupa
Our latest test drive was Hyundai's smaller crossover, the Tucson Night AWD Edition. Upon arrival, a glance at the window sticker required a second look as the sticker had no options listed other than Carpeting Floor Mats at $125.
The majority of our vehicle reviews include numerous optional features and many of the options can increase the bottom line price by thousands of dollars over the base list price. We found the Tucson Night AWD Edition to be all inclusive with all of the features contained within a list price of $29,200. When you add the Carpeting Floor Mats and destination charge of $895, the bottom line price was $30,220.
Our Tucson was powered by Hyundai's 1.6 liter turbocharged, direct injection (GDI) 4-cylinder engine rated at 175 HP, coupled with a 7-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch Transmission and Active On-Demand AWD System with AWD lock and Drive Mode Select. Nice Package!
Curb appeal was enhanced with the 'Night' designation with the addition of its prominent Black Noir Pearl exterior paint. In addition, Hyundai added 19" Black Finish Alloy Wheels, Heated Gloss-Black Side Mirrors with turn signal indicators and a front grill with vertical bars two-toned in Black and bright work as well as wrap around LED headlights. The LED technology continues with the rear Tucson tail lights and Center High Mount Stop Light (CHMSL) directly under the rear spoiler. Of course, the Hyundai logo is centered and proudly displayed in the grill and rear power life gate. Well done!
The first thing we noted when we entered the cabin was the simplicity of the dash layout. Controls were well marked and simple to use with their push button operation. A push button starter added to smooth convenience features.
Seating is a priority for Hyundai and this model claimed stain resistant cloth seats that were quite supportive and comfortable. From a wear perspective, our son has similar seats in his Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and they show no wear or stains after some 60,000+ miles of driving.
The heated front seats and a panoramic sunroof add to the pleasant driving experience. Driver's will enjoy the touch of class added by their aluminum-alloy sport pedals.
Hyundai covers the Tucson infotainment nicely with 12 volt power outlets, 3.5" LCD Multi-Information Display, Bluetooth, 5" color Touchscreen Audio Display with Rearview Camera, AM/FM/CD/MP3 Audio System with i-Pod, UBS and Aux Input Jacks as well as Sirius XM Radio.
The rear passengers have an abundance of leg room; the 60/40 folding seats provide the flexibility of cargo hauling capability with 61.9 cubic feet of space with both rear seats folded.
Our test drive of 200+ miles included city and highway driving. The Tucson's size was perfect for city driving and parking. The turning radius and backup camera were perfect for parking. Entering the posted 70 MPH Interstate, the 175 HP turbo engine in the Sport Mode brought us up to the speed limit quickly and safely.
Handling on County roads that offered several sharp turns put the Tucson's AWD Active Cornering Control to the 'test', and it was well done, we might add.
BOTTOM LINE: Our road time was pleasant and quiet.
The 200+ miles trip registered 27 MPG. Tucson's specs reflect 24/28/25 MPG for city/highway/combined usage.
From a safety perspective, our Night Edition had the usual array of Front, Front/Side, and Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensors. In addition the all important Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert were included.
We would be remiss if we did not mention Hyundai's class leading Warranty Program. It includes a 5 year/60,000 mile limited warranty and a 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty.
The Hyundai Tucson Night AWD is a worthy crossover for a first time visit to your local Hyundai Dealer.
The majority of our vehicle reviews include numerous optional features and many of the options can increase the bottom line price by thousands of dollars over the base list price. We found the Tucson Night AWD Edition to be all inclusive with all of the features contained within a list price of $29,200. When you add the Carpeting Floor Mats and destination charge of $895, the bottom line price was $30,220.
Our Tucson was powered by Hyundai's 1.6 liter turbocharged, direct injection (GDI) 4-cylinder engine rated at 175 HP, coupled with a 7-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch Transmission and Active On-Demand AWD System with AWD lock and Drive Mode Select. Nice Package!
Curb appeal was enhanced with the 'Night' designation with the addition of its prominent Black Noir Pearl exterior paint. In addition, Hyundai added 19" Black Finish Alloy Wheels, Heated Gloss-Black Side Mirrors with turn signal indicators and a front grill with vertical bars two-toned in Black and bright work as well as wrap around LED headlights. The LED technology continues with the rear Tucson tail lights and Center High Mount Stop Light (CHMSL) directly under the rear spoiler. Of course, the Hyundai logo is centered and proudly displayed in the grill and rear power life gate. Well done!
The first thing we noted when we entered the cabin was the simplicity of the dash layout. Controls were well marked and simple to use with their push button operation. A push button starter added to smooth convenience features.
Seating is a priority for Hyundai and this model claimed stain resistant cloth seats that were quite supportive and comfortable. From a wear perspective, our son has similar seats in his Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and they show no wear or stains after some 60,000+ miles of driving.
The heated front seats and a panoramic sunroof add to the pleasant driving experience. Driver's will enjoy the touch of class added by their aluminum-alloy sport pedals.
Hyundai covers the Tucson infotainment nicely with 12 volt power outlets, 3.5" LCD Multi-Information Display, Bluetooth, 5" color Touchscreen Audio Display with Rearview Camera, AM/FM/CD/MP3 Audio System with i-Pod, UBS and Aux Input Jacks as well as Sirius XM Radio.
The rear passengers have an abundance of leg room; the 60/40 folding seats provide the flexibility of cargo hauling capability with 61.9 cubic feet of space with both rear seats folded.
Our test drive of 200+ miles included city and highway driving. The Tucson's size was perfect for city driving and parking. The turning radius and backup camera were perfect for parking. Entering the posted 70 MPH Interstate, the 175 HP turbo engine in the Sport Mode brought us up to the speed limit quickly and safely.
Handling on County roads that offered several sharp turns put the Tucson's AWD Active Cornering Control to the 'test', and it was well done, we might add.
BOTTOM LINE: Our road time was pleasant and quiet.
The 200+ miles trip registered 27 MPG. Tucson's specs reflect 24/28/25 MPG for city/highway/combined usage.
From a safety perspective, our Night Edition had the usual array of Front, Front/Side, and Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensors. In addition the all important Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert were included.
We would be remiss if we did not mention Hyundai's class leading Warranty Program. It includes a 5 year/60,000 mile limited warranty and a 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty.
The Hyundai Tucson Night AWD is a worthy crossover for a first time visit to your local Hyundai Dealer.
2018 Ford Expedition
By Larry Rust
By Larry Rust
On February 7, 2017, Ford introduced the all-new Expedition in Dallas, Texas. First introduced almost twenty years ago, the Expedition has come a long way with even more fuel economy and smart technology for safety and comfort.
Following the move of the F-150 pickup truck, the Expedition has adopted the new high strength aluminum alloy body, saving about 300 lbs in vehicle weight. This should translate into improved gas mileage.
Ford added at least forty features to this vehicle including driver assist technology. Some of these features include active park assist and a 360 degree camera so that the driver can see completely around the vehicle for easier parking as well as for safety. Also offered is lane assist technology, adaptive cruise control and a blind spot monitoring system.
New connectivity and convenience features include the following:
The new Expedition also offers a Panoramic Vista Roof that spans the front and second row seats. This feature adds to the deluxe interior feel of the vehicle.
For vehicle power the Expedition has, as standard, a 3.5 liter EcoBoost engine coupled with a 10-speed transmission. The engine delivers 375 HP with 470 lb.-ft. of torque. If equipped with the Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package, the towing capacity approaches 9300 lbs. Another nice towing feature, available as an option, is the Pro Trailer Backup Assist which allows the driver to back up a trailer just by turning a knob on the dash and viewing the backup camera monitor. An electric limited-slip differential is also offered so drivers can readily adapt to changing driving conditions.
Changes to the interior include second row seats that slide and tip to provide easier access to the third row seat. As an option, the second and third row seats are easily folded flat with a push of a button. With the seats folded, the cargo area will be able to accommodate full 4 x 8 ft. sheets of plywood.
The Expedition is available in trim levels of XLT, Limited and Platinum. An XL version is available, well-suited for fleet customers from law enforcement and emergency services. This extended length version of the Expedition is now identified as Expedition Max.
The starting MSRP is $51,695 for the XLT and up to $72,710 for the Platinum model.
Following the move of the F-150 pickup truck, the Expedition has adopted the new high strength aluminum alloy body, saving about 300 lbs in vehicle weight. This should translate into improved gas mileage.
Ford added at least forty features to this vehicle including driver assist technology. Some of these features include active park assist and a 360 degree camera so that the driver can see completely around the vehicle for easier parking as well as for safety. Also offered is lane assist technology, adaptive cruise control and a blind spot monitoring system.
New connectivity and convenience features include the following:
- Wireless phone charging on the front console;
- Wi-Fi hotspot supporting up to ten devices;
- Sync 3 for both Apple CarPlay and Android phones; plus
- Sync Connect which lets the vehicle be remotely accessed for starting, lock and un-lock as well as retrieval of diagnostic information of the vehicle.
The new Expedition also offers a Panoramic Vista Roof that spans the front and second row seats. This feature adds to the deluxe interior feel of the vehicle.
For vehicle power the Expedition has, as standard, a 3.5 liter EcoBoost engine coupled with a 10-speed transmission. The engine delivers 375 HP with 470 lb.-ft. of torque. If equipped with the Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package, the towing capacity approaches 9300 lbs. Another nice towing feature, available as an option, is the Pro Trailer Backup Assist which allows the driver to back up a trailer just by turning a knob on the dash and viewing the backup camera monitor. An electric limited-slip differential is also offered so drivers can readily adapt to changing driving conditions.
Changes to the interior include second row seats that slide and tip to provide easier access to the third row seat. As an option, the second and third row seats are easily folded flat with a push of a button. With the seats folded, the cargo area will be able to accommodate full 4 x 8 ft. sheets of plywood.
The Expedition is available in trim levels of XLT, Limited and Platinum. An XL version is available, well-suited for fleet customers from law enforcement and emergency services. This extended length version of the Expedition is now identified as Expedition Max.
The starting MSRP is $51,695 for the XLT and up to $72,710 for the Platinum model.
2017 INFINITI QX30 SPORT
By Bob Kroupa
By Bob Kroupa
Recently consumers have really warmed up to the crossover segment of the automotive industry. We are also seeing accelerated consumer interest in the compact crossovers. To address this trend, the auto manufacturers are designing and rolling out new products much more quickly.
Our latest test drive arrival was the new model Infiniti QX30 Sport dressed in luxury trim. The Sport joins Infiniti's other crossover family, the QX50, QX60,QX70 and QX80 models covering the entire crossover market segment. We noted its platform drivetrain is shared with the Mercedes-Benz GLA crossover. At a glance, the QX30 is certainly worth a 'second' look based on Infiniti's unique styling which definitely distinguished it from the conventional crossovers in the market place.
The QX30's low-slung roof line flows to an extended rear spoiler; it shows off with unconventional rear side window treatment and 19" aluminum alloy wheels with run-flat tires, an aggressive profile to be sure. In addition, our test 'Sport' model had a glossy Black mesh grill with a chrome surround topped with the traditional Infiniti logo center mounted on the grill - nice touch!
A rear profile of the QX30 Sport shows off a fast back rear window, surround tail lights and Black dual exhaust tips. This is one aggressive looking crossover.
The cabin of the Sport extends the luxury inside with its comfortable and supportive Napa leather sport seats with integrated head rests. The flat bottom steering wheel and bright aluminum pedal finishes add to the QX30's interior appearance.
Ease of access controls on the instrument panel are well designed and each function was easily identified. Speedometer and tachometer were centered and visible through the steering wheel and included driver information with the likes of automatic transmission selections and digital speedometer.
Infiniti's In-Touch infotainment system on our Sport combined the navigation and connectivity systems including a Bose 10 speaker audio system, SiriusXM and voice recognition for audio, Bluetooth and vehicle information.
The rear cabin provided 60/40 folding seats and a center pass through opening to accommodate skis, lumber and anything long and thin. Folded rear seats provided an adequate 34 cubic feet of storage space.
Powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder engine, the QX30 Sport front wheel drive was rated at 208 HP. This vehicle also included an idle stop/start system to enhance fuel economy.
The engine is coupled with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission system that includes a manual mode with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. This QX30 also sported a Drive selector with sport, manual and economy modes.
Our test drive provided us with a smooth comfortable ride. City driving offered precision handling and parking based on the Sport's tight turning radius, an around view 360 degree rear camera and a first for Infiniti - a new Intelligent Park Assist system using 12 sensor that allows the Sport to park itself automatically and smoothly.
Entering the local Interstate the performance of the Sport reflected its capability of quickly and smoothly reaching the posted 70 MPH. It has been reported the 0-60 MPH speed can be attained in the mid-six second range.
Off the Interstate the Sport performed well on rural and winding roads. It's sport suspension tuning provided predictably handling on curves without any concerns. Well DONE!
Our road trip of 180 miles returned 32.5 MPG. Infiniti specs reflect 27/24/33 combined/city/highway MPG.
Safety is always an important element to consider in any vehicle. The QX30 has the usual array of air bags and lower anchors and tethers for children. The optional Sport Technology Package includes the latest safety system including Blind Sport Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Forward and Emergency Braking, Satellite Cruise Control and High Beam Assist.
Our QX30 Sport had a base price of $38,500. Option packages including the previously mentioned Sport Technology; Leather, LED and Navigation Packages plus the destination charge brought our bottom line to $43,735. The base charge for a QX30 starts at $29,950.
The QX30 warranty is better than most crossovers with the Basic Limited coverage at 4 years/60,000 miles and the Powertrain Coverage at 6 years/70,000 miles.
BOTTOM LINE: In closing, we found the QX30 Sport to be well equipped with luxury features, performance and a sleek design. This Infiniti is worthy of a look for those in the market for a luxury, compact crossover.
Our latest test drive arrival was the new model Infiniti QX30 Sport dressed in luxury trim. The Sport joins Infiniti's other crossover family, the QX50, QX60,QX70 and QX80 models covering the entire crossover market segment. We noted its platform drivetrain is shared with the Mercedes-Benz GLA crossover. At a glance, the QX30 is certainly worth a 'second' look based on Infiniti's unique styling which definitely distinguished it from the conventional crossovers in the market place.
The QX30's low-slung roof line flows to an extended rear spoiler; it shows off with unconventional rear side window treatment and 19" aluminum alloy wheels with run-flat tires, an aggressive profile to be sure. In addition, our test 'Sport' model had a glossy Black mesh grill with a chrome surround topped with the traditional Infiniti logo center mounted on the grill - nice touch!
A rear profile of the QX30 Sport shows off a fast back rear window, surround tail lights and Black dual exhaust tips. This is one aggressive looking crossover.
The cabin of the Sport extends the luxury inside with its comfortable and supportive Napa leather sport seats with integrated head rests. The flat bottom steering wheel and bright aluminum pedal finishes add to the QX30's interior appearance.
Ease of access controls on the instrument panel are well designed and each function was easily identified. Speedometer and tachometer were centered and visible through the steering wheel and included driver information with the likes of automatic transmission selections and digital speedometer.
Infiniti's In-Touch infotainment system on our Sport combined the navigation and connectivity systems including a Bose 10 speaker audio system, SiriusXM and voice recognition for audio, Bluetooth and vehicle information.
The rear cabin provided 60/40 folding seats and a center pass through opening to accommodate skis, lumber and anything long and thin. Folded rear seats provided an adequate 34 cubic feet of storage space.
Powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder engine, the QX30 Sport front wheel drive was rated at 208 HP. This vehicle also included an idle stop/start system to enhance fuel economy.
The engine is coupled with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission system that includes a manual mode with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. This QX30 also sported a Drive selector with sport, manual and economy modes.
Our test drive provided us with a smooth comfortable ride. City driving offered precision handling and parking based on the Sport's tight turning radius, an around view 360 degree rear camera and a first for Infiniti - a new Intelligent Park Assist system using 12 sensor that allows the Sport to park itself automatically and smoothly.
Entering the local Interstate the performance of the Sport reflected its capability of quickly and smoothly reaching the posted 70 MPH. It has been reported the 0-60 MPH speed can be attained in the mid-six second range.
Off the Interstate the Sport performed well on rural and winding roads. It's sport suspension tuning provided predictably handling on curves without any concerns. Well DONE!
Our road trip of 180 miles returned 32.5 MPG. Infiniti specs reflect 27/24/33 combined/city/highway MPG.
Safety is always an important element to consider in any vehicle. The QX30 has the usual array of air bags and lower anchors and tethers for children. The optional Sport Technology Package includes the latest safety system including Blind Sport Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Forward and Emergency Braking, Satellite Cruise Control and High Beam Assist.
Our QX30 Sport had a base price of $38,500. Option packages including the previously mentioned Sport Technology; Leather, LED and Navigation Packages plus the destination charge brought our bottom line to $43,735. The base charge for a QX30 starts at $29,950.
The QX30 warranty is better than most crossovers with the Basic Limited coverage at 4 years/60,000 miles and the Powertrain Coverage at 6 years/70,000 miles.
BOTTOM LINE: In closing, we found the QX30 Sport to be well equipped with luxury features, performance and a sleek design. This Infiniti is worthy of a look for those in the market for a luxury, compact crossover.
2017 NISSAN ROGUE SPORT SL FWD - 'Priced Right'
By Bob Kroupa
By Bob Kroupa
Compact crossovers are certainly in vogue these days with numerous offerings from multiple manufacturers for the consumer. Nissan 'rang the bell' with their best selling crossover, the Rogue with 329,904 units sold in the US reported in 2016.
They have now expanded the Rogue production line with a smaller sibling, the sub-compact Rogue Sport that is a foot smaller in length, a touch smaller in width and presents a lower profile. The Sport is offered in front-wheel and intuitive all-wheel drive configurations and in three well equipped grade levels, S, SV, and SL.
Our initial 'walk around' noted the tradition bold V-motion bright grill. As a side note, growing up as a car guy back in the day, vehicles were frequently identified by their grill treatment. Whenever I see the V-motion grill, I know it is a Nissan. Hats off to the design team.
The side profile of our Sport shows off the stylish beltline body trim and lower door swoop towards the rear door. Add the 19" neatly trimmed aluminum alloy wheels and wrap around taillights, and this new model really lives up to its name - SPORT.
Inside the cabin we found several features to our liking beginning with the function heated, flat bottom steering wheel. The leather seats smacked of quality material along with quality stitching on the seats and other trim in the cabin. The power sliding moon roof added another dimension of class.
The dash was neatly designed with air vents front and center. Two oval displays with the tachometer to the left, speedometer to the right and a information display between them completed the driver's side dash. The only disappointment was the information display did not provide a digital speedometer.
From an infotainment perspective the Sport included NissanConnectSM with Navigation, Mobile apps, 7" color touch-screen display, Nissan Voice Recognition for navigation and audio, Sirius XM Satellite with travel and traffic links, and AM/FM/CD/Aux audio system with six speakers.
The Sport FWD is powered by a 2.0 liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder engine rated at 141 HP. This engine is coupled with the Xtronic continuously variable transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 28/25/32 MPG (Combined/city/highway).
During our test drive in the city and on the Interstate we found the Sport to be an enjoyable vehicle to drive. It provided ride comfort with minimal outside noise. The city drive experience was perfect including great parking with the Sport's tight turning radius and backup Around View camera linked to four exterior cameras.
On the Interstate, we logged mostly straight line driving within the 70 MPH posted speed limit and found the 141 HP engine adequate. On a few occasions the engine appeared to labor a bit when accelerated passing was required.
Our Interstate road trip included two back seat adults who found the rear seat comfortable with an appropriate amount of leg room. The rear seat had a 60/40 configuration for partial or both seats to be folded. With both folded the trunk space was rated at 61.1 cubic feet. In addition, the trunk provided floor lift panels for hauling groceries or small packages/objects needing compartments. No spare tire was included but it was replaced by a repair kit.
Closing out our review is the all important Safety aspect of any vehicle. This Sport offers a comprehensive suite of Nissan Intelligent Safety Shield technologies. Included are Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention and Intelligent Cruise Control. Last, but not least, are the usual air bags for the driver, passengers and lower anchors and tethers for children safety seats.
The base price of our Nissan Rogue Sport SL was $26,070. With options and destination the total price was $29,755.
BOTTOM LINE: The Nissan Rogue Sport is a new, versatile vehicle loaded with safety features. It is well worth a buying consideration and trip to your local Nissan Dealer for a test drive.
They have now expanded the Rogue production line with a smaller sibling, the sub-compact Rogue Sport that is a foot smaller in length, a touch smaller in width and presents a lower profile. The Sport is offered in front-wheel and intuitive all-wheel drive configurations and in three well equipped grade levels, S, SV, and SL.
Our initial 'walk around' noted the tradition bold V-motion bright grill. As a side note, growing up as a car guy back in the day, vehicles were frequently identified by their grill treatment. Whenever I see the V-motion grill, I know it is a Nissan. Hats off to the design team.
The side profile of our Sport shows off the stylish beltline body trim and lower door swoop towards the rear door. Add the 19" neatly trimmed aluminum alloy wheels and wrap around taillights, and this new model really lives up to its name - SPORT.
Inside the cabin we found several features to our liking beginning with the function heated, flat bottom steering wheel. The leather seats smacked of quality material along with quality stitching on the seats and other trim in the cabin. The power sliding moon roof added another dimension of class.
The dash was neatly designed with air vents front and center. Two oval displays with the tachometer to the left, speedometer to the right and a information display between them completed the driver's side dash. The only disappointment was the information display did not provide a digital speedometer.
From an infotainment perspective the Sport included NissanConnectSM with Navigation, Mobile apps, 7" color touch-screen display, Nissan Voice Recognition for navigation and audio, Sirius XM Satellite with travel and traffic links, and AM/FM/CD/Aux audio system with six speakers.
The Sport FWD is powered by a 2.0 liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder engine rated at 141 HP. This engine is coupled with the Xtronic continuously variable transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 28/25/32 MPG (Combined/city/highway).
During our test drive in the city and on the Interstate we found the Sport to be an enjoyable vehicle to drive. It provided ride comfort with minimal outside noise. The city drive experience was perfect including great parking with the Sport's tight turning radius and backup Around View camera linked to four exterior cameras.
On the Interstate, we logged mostly straight line driving within the 70 MPH posted speed limit and found the 141 HP engine adequate. On a few occasions the engine appeared to labor a bit when accelerated passing was required.
Our Interstate road trip included two back seat adults who found the rear seat comfortable with an appropriate amount of leg room. The rear seat had a 60/40 configuration for partial or both seats to be folded. With both folded the trunk space was rated at 61.1 cubic feet. In addition, the trunk provided floor lift panels for hauling groceries or small packages/objects needing compartments. No spare tire was included but it was replaced by a repair kit.
Closing out our review is the all important Safety aspect of any vehicle. This Sport offers a comprehensive suite of Nissan Intelligent Safety Shield technologies. Included are Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention and Intelligent Cruise Control. Last, but not least, are the usual air bags for the driver, passengers and lower anchors and tethers for children safety seats.
The base price of our Nissan Rogue Sport SL was $26,070. With options and destination the total price was $29,755.
BOTTOM LINE: The Nissan Rogue Sport is a new, versatile vehicle loaded with safety features. It is well worth a buying consideration and trip to your local Nissan Dealer for a test drive.
2017 FIAT 500X Crossover
by Bob Kroupa
by Bob Kroupa
Our latest 'test-ride' was in a front wheel drive Fiat 500X 4-door crossover decked out in Blu Venezia Blue Metallic exterior paint. It was a show-stopper and a perfect size for around town driving, ease of parking with its short turn radius, and taking grandkids with all their 'stuff' to local activities. This is in no way meant to say its capabilities were limited to city driving as we did have an opportunity for a short trip on the 70 MPH Interstate to the mountains of NC.
The 2.4 liter I4 MultiAir turbo engine, pumping out 160 HP, appeared to labor just a bit when downshifting to pass a few slow moving vehicles on our acceleration to 65-70 MPH. The trip proved comfortable for all adult passengers in front and rear seats.
The I4 engine was coupled with Fiat's 9-speed automatic transmission that included a manual mode. We drove the Fiat a total of 201 miles during its one week test drive with us. The gas gauge registered a respectable 26.8 MPG, although we had expected a bit more with the 9-speed automatic transmission's wide gear ratio spread. The factory specs reflect 25/22/30 (combined/city/highway) MPG.
The Italian-designed exterior is unique to the 500 with its bold horizontal chrome grill featuring the centered Fiat logo flanked by Bi-functional Halogen projector headlamps. The large windows, rounded roof line, body bright trim and optional 17" aluminum wheels add to the stylish side profile. The rearview showed a simple clean look with a chrome bar and the centered Fiat logo above it.
We were quite impressed with the upscale cabin treatment that was designed with the driver and passengers in mind. Opening the doors with the keyless entry, we noted a dual function deep pull enclosure in the door frame with a sealed bottom that included a removable rubber mat. This was a perfect place for a cell phone or keys. The door panels are padded with leather, soft to the touch, perfect for an arm rest. We noted this design was also included in the rear door panels.
The instrument cluster was neatly designed with three oval displays; the left with an analog speedometer; the right with tachometer; and, a larger center oval displaying the fuel gauge, temperature gauge, compass and digital speed display. Well done - great optics and easy to read.
The flat bottom steering wheel had speed controls, center display data and audio controls. In addition, the oversize 'glove' box was a welcomed addition for storage. The keyless start button was perfectly placed.
The center stack included the automatic transmission gear selector, however, we found placing the gear selector in the bottom drive position made it slip too easily into the manual mode which we did not want. Below the shifter was an electronic emergency brake. The storage compartment between the front seats included a sliding arm rest with enough room adding to the comfort of both the driver and front passenger.
Our 500 had the optional Customer Preferred Package ($895) that included floor mats, GPS Antenna Input, U Connect 5.0, 5" Touch Screen, Sirius Radio, Remote UBS port, Integrated Voice Command Bluetooth, Rear Park Sensors and Rear Backup Camera. The 9-Speed Automatic Transmission was pegged at $1,500. A Beats Premium Audio System with 8 speakers and a subwoofer added $695 to the total.
The rear seats had a folding 60/40 split configuration. Folded, the rear hauling capacity was rated at 32.1 cubic feet.
Safety is always an important consideration when evaluating a vehicle. The Fiat 500 had Advanced Multistage front air bags, front seat side air bags, side curtain front/rear air bags and driver inflatable knee bolster air bag.
The base price of our 2017 Fiat 500X was $19,995. Options and the destination charge brought the total price to $24,575.
BOTTOM LINE: The 500X Crossover is a sporty, practical, fun to drive small crossover worthy of a visit to your Fiat dealer for a test drive.
The 2.4 liter I4 MultiAir turbo engine, pumping out 160 HP, appeared to labor just a bit when downshifting to pass a few slow moving vehicles on our acceleration to 65-70 MPH. The trip proved comfortable for all adult passengers in front and rear seats.
The I4 engine was coupled with Fiat's 9-speed automatic transmission that included a manual mode. We drove the Fiat a total of 201 miles during its one week test drive with us. The gas gauge registered a respectable 26.8 MPG, although we had expected a bit more with the 9-speed automatic transmission's wide gear ratio spread. The factory specs reflect 25/22/30 (combined/city/highway) MPG.
The Italian-designed exterior is unique to the 500 with its bold horizontal chrome grill featuring the centered Fiat logo flanked by Bi-functional Halogen projector headlamps. The large windows, rounded roof line, body bright trim and optional 17" aluminum wheels add to the stylish side profile. The rearview showed a simple clean look with a chrome bar and the centered Fiat logo above it.
We were quite impressed with the upscale cabin treatment that was designed with the driver and passengers in mind. Opening the doors with the keyless entry, we noted a dual function deep pull enclosure in the door frame with a sealed bottom that included a removable rubber mat. This was a perfect place for a cell phone or keys. The door panels are padded with leather, soft to the touch, perfect for an arm rest. We noted this design was also included in the rear door panels.
The instrument cluster was neatly designed with three oval displays; the left with an analog speedometer; the right with tachometer; and, a larger center oval displaying the fuel gauge, temperature gauge, compass and digital speed display. Well done - great optics and easy to read.
The flat bottom steering wheel had speed controls, center display data and audio controls. In addition, the oversize 'glove' box was a welcomed addition for storage. The keyless start button was perfectly placed.
The center stack included the automatic transmission gear selector, however, we found placing the gear selector in the bottom drive position made it slip too easily into the manual mode which we did not want. Below the shifter was an electronic emergency brake. The storage compartment between the front seats included a sliding arm rest with enough room adding to the comfort of both the driver and front passenger.
Our 500 had the optional Customer Preferred Package ($895) that included floor mats, GPS Antenna Input, U Connect 5.0, 5" Touch Screen, Sirius Radio, Remote UBS port, Integrated Voice Command Bluetooth, Rear Park Sensors and Rear Backup Camera. The 9-Speed Automatic Transmission was pegged at $1,500. A Beats Premium Audio System with 8 speakers and a subwoofer added $695 to the total.
The rear seats had a folding 60/40 split configuration. Folded, the rear hauling capacity was rated at 32.1 cubic feet.
Safety is always an important consideration when evaluating a vehicle. The Fiat 500 had Advanced Multistage front air bags, front seat side air bags, side curtain front/rear air bags and driver inflatable knee bolster air bag.
The base price of our 2017 Fiat 500X was $19,995. Options and the destination charge brought the total price to $24,575.
BOTTOM LINE: The 500X Crossover is a sporty, practical, fun to drive small crossover worthy of a visit to your Fiat dealer for a test drive.
2017 Mazda CX-3
By Jim Jackson
Small vehicles are big business in the battle to win over car buyers of the Millennial Generation.Mazda courts the 18-34 year age group with the CX-3 compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV) that delivers youthful styling and an entry price under $20,000.
The Japanese automaker tucks the CX-3 in line with General Motors, Honda and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles that have dominated the CUV market in recent years.
I tested the 2017 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring model with optional all-wheel drive and am impressed with its road-griping fun-to-drive demeanor. CX-3’s racy design mates well with the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates 146 horsepower governed by a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. No floor-mounted manual gearbox is offered.
Mazda touts SkyActiv Technology across their model line - nomenclature that can be confusing for first time Mazda buyers. Simply put, SkyActiv is engineering that pairs the engine and transmission specific to Mazda models for maximum fuel efficiency with integrated vehicle design elements and light weight to enhance mileage.
Mazda CX-3 with standard front-wheel drive rates 29 miles per gallon around town and 35-mpg on the open road. All-wheel drive achieves 27/32 respectively. My actual mileage with combined city and highway travel reached 30 miles per gallon overall during my week-long loan.
Interior space accommodates four adults with a slight forward movement of the front seats. Rear doors open wide for easy access to the second row with no impeding wheel-well bulge. Seats are supportive and contoured to fit today’s American-sized occupants. Cabin acoustics keep conversation levels pleasantly normal front-to-back when at speed. However, engine noise bleeds heavy into the passenger quarters on start-up and under hard acceleration.
Dashboard layout and center stack switchgear is simple and ergonomically arranged for at-a-glance operation.
Its rear hatch opens to 44 cubic feet of cargo utility when the 60/40 split-second row seatbacks are lowered. Room enough for two road bikes and active lifestyle gear.
The 2017 Mazda CX-3 crossover is built in Japan, shipped in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring models priced from $19,960. Mazda CX-3 Touring costs $21,960, followed by Grand Touring at $24,990. All-wheel drive is available across the CX-3 model line for an additional $1250. Delivery, processing and handling fee runs $900.
By Jim Jackson
Small vehicles are big business in the battle to win over car buyers of the Millennial Generation.Mazda courts the 18-34 year age group with the CX-3 compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV) that delivers youthful styling and an entry price under $20,000.
The Japanese automaker tucks the CX-3 in line with General Motors, Honda and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles that have dominated the CUV market in recent years.
I tested the 2017 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring model with optional all-wheel drive and am impressed with its road-griping fun-to-drive demeanor. CX-3’s racy design mates well with the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates 146 horsepower governed by a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. No floor-mounted manual gearbox is offered.
Mazda touts SkyActiv Technology across their model line - nomenclature that can be confusing for first time Mazda buyers. Simply put, SkyActiv is engineering that pairs the engine and transmission specific to Mazda models for maximum fuel efficiency with integrated vehicle design elements and light weight to enhance mileage.
Mazda CX-3 with standard front-wheel drive rates 29 miles per gallon around town and 35-mpg on the open road. All-wheel drive achieves 27/32 respectively. My actual mileage with combined city and highway travel reached 30 miles per gallon overall during my week-long loan.
Interior space accommodates four adults with a slight forward movement of the front seats. Rear doors open wide for easy access to the second row with no impeding wheel-well bulge. Seats are supportive and contoured to fit today’s American-sized occupants. Cabin acoustics keep conversation levels pleasantly normal front-to-back when at speed. However, engine noise bleeds heavy into the passenger quarters on start-up and under hard acceleration.
Dashboard layout and center stack switchgear is simple and ergonomically arranged for at-a-glance operation.
Its rear hatch opens to 44 cubic feet of cargo utility when the 60/40 split-second row seatbacks are lowered. Room enough for two road bikes and active lifestyle gear.
The 2017 Mazda CX-3 crossover is built in Japan, shipped in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring models priced from $19,960. Mazda CX-3 Touring costs $21,960, followed by Grand Touring at $24,990. All-wheel drive is available across the CX-3 model line for an additional $1250. Delivery, processing and handling fee runs $900.
2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited
By Jim Jackson
By Jim Jackson
APACHE JUNCTION, ARIZONA – Following the 35 miles of twisty pavement to Tortilla Flats along the historic Apache Trail in the Desert Southeast is a driving challenge. However, Japanese automaker Subaru professes “Confidence in Motion” as part of their built-in safety net and provides all-wheel drive as standard equipment. Outback enters its fifth-generation to celebrate 20 years on- and off-pavement across America’s landscape.
Considered by brand loyalists to be the world’s first sport utility wagon, the 2017 Subaru Outback brings rugged looks and greater capability to those who love their Subaru.
The 2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited we tested has a leaner appearance with a tapered roofline and body sides that have shed the chunky cladding found on the previous model. Outback’s hexagon grille is anchored by a revised lower valance that features adaptive light technology with oversize fog lamps to project added light when turning.
Up top, standard roof rails with foldaway crossbars carry loads not contained within the 73.3 cubic feet of available cabin cargo space. Over 35 cu-ft remain with the 60/40-split second row upright. Access to the rails is made easier with wider interior door sills for sure-footed stability when securing overhead outside loads.
The wider sills do not hamper the cabin’s exit or entry yet serve as an entrée to the five-passenger quarters accented by soft-touch materials and wood-tone trim. Front and rear seat contours are suited for the long haul with back seat legroom enhanced by 2.7-inches over the outgoing model.
Outback’s standard rearview camera is the best in the business with excellent high resolution images from the 6.2- or available 7.0-inch center stack touch screen. Other vision enhancements come with Outback’s optional EyeSight system that utilize dual cameras housed behind the inside rearview mirror that automatically stop the car with no driver intervention to avoid an imminent crash at speeds up to 30-mph.
POWER CURVE
The 2017 Subaru Outback is powered by a standard 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine for 175 horsepower or 3.6L flat six-cylinder that builds 256 hp. Fuel economy for the 2.5L garners 25 miles per gallon in town and 32 mpg on the open road. The 3.6L yields 20/26 mpg respectively. Both engines are mated to Subaru’s continuously variable (automatic) transmission and standard symmetrical all-wheel drive.
For 2017, a X-Mode all-wheel drive function offers Outback maximum grip by optimizing engine and transmission settings for increased active AWD engagement. Down hill descent control makes Outback’s off-pavement travel effortless. So does its 8.7-inches of ground clearance.
Outback’s on-pavement prowess is dialed in with Subaru’s standard torque vectoring system that teams with the AWD to provide precision turn-in and corning control for superb steering wheel-to-road communication at speed.
Subaru Outback is awarded the U.S. Government’s highest 5-Star rating for overall crash protection by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited is built at Subaru of Indiana Assembly in Lafayette for a starting price of $32,390 with all-wheel drive standard. Add $875 for freight.
Considered by brand loyalists to be the world’s first sport utility wagon, the 2017 Subaru Outback brings rugged looks and greater capability to those who love their Subaru.
The 2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited we tested has a leaner appearance with a tapered roofline and body sides that have shed the chunky cladding found on the previous model. Outback’s hexagon grille is anchored by a revised lower valance that features adaptive light technology with oversize fog lamps to project added light when turning.
Up top, standard roof rails with foldaway crossbars carry loads not contained within the 73.3 cubic feet of available cabin cargo space. Over 35 cu-ft remain with the 60/40-split second row upright. Access to the rails is made easier with wider interior door sills for sure-footed stability when securing overhead outside loads.
The wider sills do not hamper the cabin’s exit or entry yet serve as an entrée to the five-passenger quarters accented by soft-touch materials and wood-tone trim. Front and rear seat contours are suited for the long haul with back seat legroom enhanced by 2.7-inches over the outgoing model.
Outback’s standard rearview camera is the best in the business with excellent high resolution images from the 6.2- or available 7.0-inch center stack touch screen. Other vision enhancements come with Outback’s optional EyeSight system that utilize dual cameras housed behind the inside rearview mirror that automatically stop the car with no driver intervention to avoid an imminent crash at speeds up to 30-mph.
POWER CURVE
The 2017 Subaru Outback is powered by a standard 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine for 175 horsepower or 3.6L flat six-cylinder that builds 256 hp. Fuel economy for the 2.5L garners 25 miles per gallon in town and 32 mpg on the open road. The 3.6L yields 20/26 mpg respectively. Both engines are mated to Subaru’s continuously variable (automatic) transmission and standard symmetrical all-wheel drive.
For 2017, a X-Mode all-wheel drive function offers Outback maximum grip by optimizing engine and transmission settings for increased active AWD engagement. Down hill descent control makes Outback’s off-pavement travel effortless. So does its 8.7-inches of ground clearance.
Outback’s on-pavement prowess is dialed in with Subaru’s standard torque vectoring system that teams with the AWD to provide precision turn-in and corning control for superb steering wheel-to-road communication at speed.
Subaru Outback is awarded the U.S. Government’s highest 5-Star rating for overall crash protection by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2017 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited is built at Subaru of Indiana Assembly in Lafayette for a starting price of $32,390 with all-wheel drive standard. Add $875 for freight.
2017 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER - VALUE ORIENTED
By Bob Kroupa
By Bob Kroupa
When notified we were to receive a Mitsubishi vehicle for our evaluation, it seemed doing a bit of research seemed appropriate. We were quite surprised to find 2017 was a banner year for Mitsubishi which reached the 100th year anniversary of their first production vehicle. In 1917 the Mitsubishi Model A was introduced by the Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Company, LTD. in Japan.
FAST FORWARD: In 2003 the first Mitsubishi Outlander arrived in North America. Now In 2017, arriving in Greensboro, our test drive vehicle was a third generation, the 2017 Outlander 2.4, SEL. Upon first inspection we immediately noted several interesting items: this Outlander was priced 'right'; it had three-row seating; and, an excellent Warranty Program. All are important attributes in making a 'buy' decision.
Appearance-wise, the Labrador Black Pearl exterior paint framed the two bar horizontal chrome grill that flowed into the LED headlights with a downward sweep to the front bumper - very classy. The side sheet metal included a functional lower raised chrome strip, two-toned 18"alloy wheels, and the side profile was enhanced with a standard tinted rear glass treatment.
Reviewing the cabin, we were impressed with the quality Black leather seating with power and heat adjustments. Noted was the 'soft touch' material on the upper instrument panel and door trim. Convenience features included hands-free Link System with Bluetooth technology and steering wheel controls, 7" Smartphone Link Display System and Rockford Fosgate audio with nine speakers. A neat rear camera with split screen display showed rear road, landscaping and vehicle profile that can be activated without placing the vehicle in reverse gear. Also included was one of our favorites - a heated steering wheel!
The second row seating provided ample and comfortable room for three adults with the 60/40 split, fold down seats with independent slide and reclining adjustments. The third row 50/50 split seats with minimum leg room were appropriate more for children than adults. Cargo room was 63 cubic ft. when the second and third row seats were folded down.
Out test drive Outlander SEL was powered by a front wheel drive 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine pumping out 168 HP, coupled with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Fuel economy is rated at 25/30/27 (City/Highway/Combined) MPG.
We were able to drive our Outlander for 150 miles noting a quiet cabin ride other than when this four-banger required heavy acceleration entering and passing on the Interstate. Power was adequate, however, we would opt for an HP increase or 'turbo' option. The electric steering was good while ride comfort could be classified as 'average'.
We were at ease on our test drive with the usual array of seat belts and safety features. Adding to our safety was the optional SEL Touring Package that included Multi-View Camera System; Forward Collision Mitigation; Adaptive Cruise Control; Lane Departure Warning; Blind Spot Warning with Rear Cross Traffic Alert; and, Lane Changing Assist.
As mentioned earlier, the Outlander Warranty is outstanding with 10 years/100,000 mile powertrain and 5 year/60,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty.
Our test vehicle had a base price of $25,495 plus $4,000 option and $895 destination/handling for a total tag price of $30,390. The base Outlander ES Model price is $23,495.
BOTTOM LINE: The Mitsubishi Outlander is priced right with 8 passenger seating and an excellent warranty. Definitely worth a consideration!
2017 FORD ESCAPE TITANIUM - CLASS, POWER AND COMFORT
by Bob Kroupa
by Bob Kroupa
The 'WOW!' factor now goes to FORD's top selling Crossover, the Escape, with 307,069 units sold in 2016. The 2017 Escape is available in three trim models: the Base S; Mid-level SE; and the top Titanium model.
Our test vehicle, the Escape Titanium 4-WD model was sleek in Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clear Coat exterior paint that was definitely the right 'curb appeal' color. It certainly was eye-catching and prompted whistles, comments and questions from bystanders in several parking lots we hit.
Adding to the exterior styling was the simplicity of a conventional updated hexagonal grill, LED headlights, oversized lower air intakes and 19" aluminum wheels. Finishing the rear exterior styling are new tail lights and a dual exhaust panel.
Seated in the driver's seat we were greeted with a number of neat features with the likes of an ergonomically placed gear shifter in the center console with a new electric-assist parking brake behind the shifter. Between the front seats was an oversized cushioned armrest to accommodate both the driver front seat passenger. Adding to the comfort of the front seat passengers were two 10-way power, heated and leather trimmed bucket seats. Let's not forget about the driver's heated steering wheel, a great feature for constantly changing weather conditions!
Looking around in the cabin, something seemed a bit different. Finally we realized it was the light and view from the oversized windshield which provided more than excellent visibility, it was like being outside, but even better! In fact, during a rain storm the windshield was kept super clear with the 24" wiper blades - this feature was a design well done. In addition, the 3-speed back window wiper gave the best rear window cleaner we had ever experienced. And there was more. You guessed it, a Panoramic Vista Roof totally complemented the larger windows all around the cabin bringing the outside in - perfect for touring in town or in the countryside.
The Escape provides ample storage in the cabin. An oversized glove box was large enough to store a fair-sized purse and included an upper shelf for the owner manual/documents. Door panels were also oversized for drink container options. There was also a separate manual open/close control for the front heat and A/C vents - a very nice and easy feature that doesn't require taking your eyes off the road.
The rear seating (60/40 split) is for three passengers with reclining capability. For cargo hauling, with the rear seats folded down, cargo capacity is 67.8 cubic ft. of space. Another great feature is the rear lift-gate that facilitates hands-free operation by a quick wave of your foot under the rear bumper. A neat feat when your hands are full and your keys are still in your pocket!
As we started the engine, we found numerous driving, information, entertainment and safety features. Included are the SYNC3 and SYNC Connect Systems, LCD screen displaying phone, audio and navigation features. Need to recharge your phones or tablets, easy with two smart charging UBS ports. Sirius XM is added along with a 10-speaker Sony audio system. In addition a 110 volt rear power outlet is included.
From a safety perspective we found the usual array of air bags to protect the driver and passengers, front and rear. The optional Technology package that was included in our test drive helped insure the driver has all the necessary tools like Blind-Spot Information System, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Enhanced Active Park System (lets the vehicle handle different and difficult parallel parking situations). Standard features included Rearview Camera.
Our road test met expectations. There was a smooth ride in traffic, but we did find the steering wheel to lock during engine deactivation at stop lights! However, just the second we engaged acceleration, the lock released. It turned out to be a quirk to initially understand what was happening without any consequence. On the Interstate, we had ample acceleration. On mountain roads, sharp turns were handled with ease without any notable body sway. We had quite a quiet ride with great ease of handling under all test conditions.
During our drive we covered 191 miles returning 24.6 MPG. Manufacturer specs show 20/23/27 (city/combined/highway). The Escape Titanium was powered by the 245 HP Turbocharged 2.0 liter EcoBoost engine coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The base price for our Escape Titanium was $30,850 plus options and destination charges brought the final price to $39,010. The base price for the 2017 Escape starts at $23,750.
BOTTOM LINE: Class, power and comfort all make the Escape Titanium worthy of consideration!
Our test vehicle, the Escape Titanium 4-WD model was sleek in Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clear Coat exterior paint that was definitely the right 'curb appeal' color. It certainly was eye-catching and prompted whistles, comments and questions from bystanders in several parking lots we hit.
Adding to the exterior styling was the simplicity of a conventional updated hexagonal grill, LED headlights, oversized lower air intakes and 19" aluminum wheels. Finishing the rear exterior styling are new tail lights and a dual exhaust panel.
Seated in the driver's seat we were greeted with a number of neat features with the likes of an ergonomically placed gear shifter in the center console with a new electric-assist parking brake behind the shifter. Between the front seats was an oversized cushioned armrest to accommodate both the driver front seat passenger. Adding to the comfort of the front seat passengers were two 10-way power, heated and leather trimmed bucket seats. Let's not forget about the driver's heated steering wheel, a great feature for constantly changing weather conditions!
Looking around in the cabin, something seemed a bit different. Finally we realized it was the light and view from the oversized windshield which provided more than excellent visibility, it was like being outside, but even better! In fact, during a rain storm the windshield was kept super clear with the 24" wiper blades - this feature was a design well done. In addition, the 3-speed back window wiper gave the best rear window cleaner we had ever experienced. And there was more. You guessed it, a Panoramic Vista Roof totally complemented the larger windows all around the cabin bringing the outside in - perfect for touring in town or in the countryside.
The Escape provides ample storage in the cabin. An oversized glove box was large enough to store a fair-sized purse and included an upper shelf for the owner manual/documents. Door panels were also oversized for drink container options. There was also a separate manual open/close control for the front heat and A/C vents - a very nice and easy feature that doesn't require taking your eyes off the road.
The rear seating (60/40 split) is for three passengers with reclining capability. For cargo hauling, with the rear seats folded down, cargo capacity is 67.8 cubic ft. of space. Another great feature is the rear lift-gate that facilitates hands-free operation by a quick wave of your foot under the rear bumper. A neat feat when your hands are full and your keys are still in your pocket!
As we started the engine, we found numerous driving, information, entertainment and safety features. Included are the SYNC3 and SYNC Connect Systems, LCD screen displaying phone, audio and navigation features. Need to recharge your phones or tablets, easy with two smart charging UBS ports. Sirius XM is added along with a 10-speaker Sony audio system. In addition a 110 volt rear power outlet is included.
From a safety perspective we found the usual array of air bags to protect the driver and passengers, front and rear. The optional Technology package that was included in our test drive helped insure the driver has all the necessary tools like Blind-Spot Information System, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Enhanced Active Park System (lets the vehicle handle different and difficult parallel parking situations). Standard features included Rearview Camera.
Our road test met expectations. There was a smooth ride in traffic, but we did find the steering wheel to lock during engine deactivation at stop lights! However, just the second we engaged acceleration, the lock released. It turned out to be a quirk to initially understand what was happening without any consequence. On the Interstate, we had ample acceleration. On mountain roads, sharp turns were handled with ease without any notable body sway. We had quite a quiet ride with great ease of handling under all test conditions.
During our drive we covered 191 miles returning 24.6 MPG. Manufacturer specs show 20/23/27 (city/combined/highway). The Escape Titanium was powered by the 245 HP Turbocharged 2.0 liter EcoBoost engine coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The base price for our Escape Titanium was $30,850 plus options and destination charges brought the final price to $39,010. The base price for the 2017 Escape starts at $23,750.
BOTTOM LINE: Class, power and comfort all make the Escape Titanium worthy of consideration!
2017 TOYOTA LAND CRUISER - The Timeless Icon
By Bob Kroupa
By Bob Kroupa
Back sixty years ago in 1957 the then-ultimate 'land cruiser', called the Toyota GJ25, was introduced and it resembled a WWII jeep-like vehicle.
Fast forward to today: The Toyota team has delivered one of their 'big boys' from their stable of vehicles for our Test Drive - a classic Silver Metallic Land Cruiser. And a big boy it is weighing in at 5,815 lbs. with seating for eight passengers, numerous off-road features, powered by a V-8 motor and towing capacity at 8,100 lbs.
Sizing up the Cruiser, it was quite apparent I was looking at a 'ready for duty' full size, four-wheel SUV powered by a notable V8 emblem. Adding to the visuals were skid plates, front and rear tow hooks as well as front and rear mudguards. The bold chrome front grill flowed into the LED headlights and the 18" aluminum wheels complimented a side view that included a running board and chrome side moldings. A chrome strip embedded with LAND CRUISER on the rear hatch completed the impressive 'walk around' of this powerful vehicle.
Inside the cabin we noted the luxury and capability features complimented the outside appearance of this vehicle. Included were all leather ventilated and heated front bucket seats, second row 40/2/40 split seats and third row with 50/50 split with unique fold-away seats. A bi-level covered center console included a cooler box and second row heat/AC vents. The large front heat/AC vents in the dash had a separate control switch to close/open the airflow.
From a 'today's necessities', located on the center stack was Toyota's Entune infotainment system with a standard navigation system and a 9" high resolution multi-media touch screen as well as the Entune Premium JBL Audio and Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio. In the center console were 12V auxiliary power outlets.
The rear passengers were not forgotten and features for them included a standard rear seat DVD entertainment system with two individual 11.6" display screens mounted on the backs of the front bucket seats. Also included were RCA jacks, HDMI input, remote and two wireless headphones.
Although not tested by us, our Cruiser was equipped with state of the art visual and handling features for the off-road enthusiasts. Powered by a 381 HP 5.7 liter V-8 motor coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel drive and a two speed transfer case, our 'big boy' was ready to leave the paved road.
Off-road handling was assisted in part by the Multi-Terrain Selection that controlled wheel spin and brake lockup on selection of Rock, Rock & Dirt, Mogul, Loose Rock and Mud & Sand categories on the center console dial.
Activate the Crawl control with off-road Turn Assist; modulate throttle and brake at 5 low speed set up; press the Multi Terrain monitor button to display front, side and rear camera views on the 9" NAV screen; check the Optitron instrumentation that provides speedometer, tachometer, voltmeter, coolant temperature, fuel and oil pressure displays; and, we were ready to GO! But time and terrain did not permit any off-road experiences - BOO!
Since we took delivery of the Cruiser in the North Carolina mountains, time did permit a trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway this time. We found the ride comfortable, but not car-like, especially when we passed over patches of degraded pavement. There is something to be said, however, about the 'purr of a V-8 motor, very unlike a 4-banger turbo or V-6 engine. Stepping on the accelerator of a V-8 to allow limited passing was excellent with this big brut. It was reported the 0-60 speed is 6.7 seconds, and we believe it - but did not test it. The Cruiser handled the several turns on the trip with ease and little body sway.
The reported MPG is a bit concerning with a reported 13/18/15 (city/highway/combined), however, the Cruiser does have a 24.5 gallon gas tank.
Safety is one of the outstanding attributes of the Cruiser. It is equipped with 10 air bags and the latest automatic safety features that include Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Safety Connect-Emergency Assistance.
The MSRP base price of our Test Drive Toyota Land Cruiser was $84,325 with virtually all features described included with the exception of the wireless headphones at $80. Delivery and destination fees were an additional $1,095.
BOTTOM LINE: This is a rare powerful Toyota model with 3,705 units sold in 2016. For those who want the very best with off-road capability, this vehicle is a worthy companion.
Fast forward to today: The Toyota team has delivered one of their 'big boys' from their stable of vehicles for our Test Drive - a classic Silver Metallic Land Cruiser. And a big boy it is weighing in at 5,815 lbs. with seating for eight passengers, numerous off-road features, powered by a V-8 motor and towing capacity at 8,100 lbs.
Sizing up the Cruiser, it was quite apparent I was looking at a 'ready for duty' full size, four-wheel SUV powered by a notable V8 emblem. Adding to the visuals were skid plates, front and rear tow hooks as well as front and rear mudguards. The bold chrome front grill flowed into the LED headlights and the 18" aluminum wheels complimented a side view that included a running board and chrome side moldings. A chrome strip embedded with LAND CRUISER on the rear hatch completed the impressive 'walk around' of this powerful vehicle.
Inside the cabin we noted the luxury and capability features complimented the outside appearance of this vehicle. Included were all leather ventilated and heated front bucket seats, second row 40/2/40 split seats and third row with 50/50 split with unique fold-away seats. A bi-level covered center console included a cooler box and second row heat/AC vents. The large front heat/AC vents in the dash had a separate control switch to close/open the airflow.
From a 'today's necessities', located on the center stack was Toyota's Entune infotainment system with a standard navigation system and a 9" high resolution multi-media touch screen as well as the Entune Premium JBL Audio and Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio. In the center console were 12V auxiliary power outlets.
The rear passengers were not forgotten and features for them included a standard rear seat DVD entertainment system with two individual 11.6" display screens mounted on the backs of the front bucket seats. Also included were RCA jacks, HDMI input, remote and two wireless headphones.
Although not tested by us, our Cruiser was equipped with state of the art visual and handling features for the off-road enthusiasts. Powered by a 381 HP 5.7 liter V-8 motor coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel drive and a two speed transfer case, our 'big boy' was ready to leave the paved road.
Off-road handling was assisted in part by the Multi-Terrain Selection that controlled wheel spin and brake lockup on selection of Rock, Rock & Dirt, Mogul, Loose Rock and Mud & Sand categories on the center console dial.
Activate the Crawl control with off-road Turn Assist; modulate throttle and brake at 5 low speed set up; press the Multi Terrain monitor button to display front, side and rear camera views on the 9" NAV screen; check the Optitron instrumentation that provides speedometer, tachometer, voltmeter, coolant temperature, fuel and oil pressure displays; and, we were ready to GO! But time and terrain did not permit any off-road experiences - BOO!
Since we took delivery of the Cruiser in the North Carolina mountains, time did permit a trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway this time. We found the ride comfortable, but not car-like, especially when we passed over patches of degraded pavement. There is something to be said, however, about the 'purr of a V-8 motor, very unlike a 4-banger turbo or V-6 engine. Stepping on the accelerator of a V-8 to allow limited passing was excellent with this big brut. It was reported the 0-60 speed is 6.7 seconds, and we believe it - but did not test it. The Cruiser handled the several turns on the trip with ease and little body sway.
The reported MPG is a bit concerning with a reported 13/18/15 (city/highway/combined), however, the Cruiser does have a 24.5 gallon gas tank.
Safety is one of the outstanding attributes of the Cruiser. It is equipped with 10 air bags and the latest automatic safety features that include Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Safety Connect-Emergency Assistance.
The MSRP base price of our Test Drive Toyota Land Cruiser was $84,325 with virtually all features described included with the exception of the wireless headphones at $80. Delivery and destination fees were an additional $1,095.
BOTTOM LINE: This is a rare powerful Toyota model with 3,705 units sold in 2016. For those who want the very best with off-road capability, this vehicle is a worthy companion.
2017 GMC ACADIA FWD SLT-1
'Versatility for the Family' by Bob Kroupa
It is always neat to have the opportunity to test drive a new vehicle. That experience is the lead into our review of the GMC Acadia, a mid-size crossover. The new model was actually a 'redesign' from the ground up for the 2017 model year.
The 2017 Acadia is a bit smaller and lighter than the 2016 model, sharing the all-new platform architecture with the Cadillac XT5. From a design perspective, make no mistake, this is a GMC vehicle with its familiar bold GMC logo set in the upper portion of their tradition grill. Front headlights flow from the grill around to the upper front fenders, a nice touch. The fender arches remain with a modern flare. Curb appeal for this Dark Sapphire Blue Metallic Acadia was smart looking with chrome roof racks and trim around the windows. In addition, the side profile is enhanced by the new rake of the windshield. And, 18" aluminum wheels were included as a standard feature.
Those accustomed to the 3-row seating in the 2016 model will not be disappointed. The 2017 model is available with seating capacity for five, six or seven passengers. Our Acadia was the six seat model with two captains chairs for the second row passengers. Included in the rear of the center stack were audio, heating and A/C controls as well as a 120V outlet. The new slide feature that allows easy access to the third row seats was a much anticipated addition.
The cabin trim, leather of course, is upscale with soft touch surfaces. The instrument panel features easy-to-use controls with displays considered user friendly. Connectivity features include Sirius XM Radio, OnStar, Audio system with 8" touch screen, 4G Wi-Fi, hotspot and five UBS ports.
Storage is in abundance with a sliding compartment available for second row passengers at the bottom rear of the center stack. Also two storage compartments are under the rear flat panel behind the third row seats for storage or to place grocery bags when open - well done!
A new naturally aspirated 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine and 190lb-ft of torque rated at 194 HP was the standard engine for the Acadia in our test vehicle. It was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine has fuel economy rated at 21 city, 26 highway for a combined average of 23 MPG. A second engine, 3.6 liter V6 rated at 310 HP and 271 lb-ft torque is also available.
Safety features are top priority in this new Acadia and include front, side air bags for front driver and passenger, driver inboard seat mounted side impact and head curtain side impact for all rows of outboard seating positions. Also supporting the safety priority are 4-wheel disc brakes, Driver Alert Package, Rear Park Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert. A recently developed rear seat reminder system that detects weight in the back seat, whether a child or parcel. When Acadia is turned off, five audible chimes and a message in the driver information center will alert the drive to check the second row before leaving the vehicle.
We noted the cabin was extremely quite during our test drive. Parking with improved turning radius was a breeze at the mall. The 4-cylinder motor was adequate in reaching cruising speed on the Interstate including accelerated entry.
Our Acadia had a base price of $38,350; options and destination charges added to a total price of $40,515.
BOTTOM LINE: The all-new GMC Acadia should definitely be a consideration for your next crossover purchase.
'Versatility for the Family' by Bob Kroupa
It is always neat to have the opportunity to test drive a new vehicle. That experience is the lead into our review of the GMC Acadia, a mid-size crossover. The new model was actually a 'redesign' from the ground up for the 2017 model year.
The 2017 Acadia is a bit smaller and lighter than the 2016 model, sharing the all-new platform architecture with the Cadillac XT5. From a design perspective, make no mistake, this is a GMC vehicle with its familiar bold GMC logo set in the upper portion of their tradition grill. Front headlights flow from the grill around to the upper front fenders, a nice touch. The fender arches remain with a modern flare. Curb appeal for this Dark Sapphire Blue Metallic Acadia was smart looking with chrome roof racks and trim around the windows. In addition, the side profile is enhanced by the new rake of the windshield. And, 18" aluminum wheels were included as a standard feature.
Those accustomed to the 3-row seating in the 2016 model will not be disappointed. The 2017 model is available with seating capacity for five, six or seven passengers. Our Acadia was the six seat model with two captains chairs for the second row passengers. Included in the rear of the center stack were audio, heating and A/C controls as well as a 120V outlet. The new slide feature that allows easy access to the third row seats was a much anticipated addition.
The cabin trim, leather of course, is upscale with soft touch surfaces. The instrument panel features easy-to-use controls with displays considered user friendly. Connectivity features include Sirius XM Radio, OnStar, Audio system with 8" touch screen, 4G Wi-Fi, hotspot and five UBS ports.
Storage is in abundance with a sliding compartment available for second row passengers at the bottom rear of the center stack. Also two storage compartments are under the rear flat panel behind the third row seats for storage or to place grocery bags when open - well done!
A new naturally aspirated 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine and 190lb-ft of torque rated at 194 HP was the standard engine for the Acadia in our test vehicle. It was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine has fuel economy rated at 21 city, 26 highway for a combined average of 23 MPG. A second engine, 3.6 liter V6 rated at 310 HP and 271 lb-ft torque is also available.
Safety features are top priority in this new Acadia and include front, side air bags for front driver and passenger, driver inboard seat mounted side impact and head curtain side impact for all rows of outboard seating positions. Also supporting the safety priority are 4-wheel disc brakes, Driver Alert Package, Rear Park Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert. A recently developed rear seat reminder system that detects weight in the back seat, whether a child or parcel. When Acadia is turned off, five audible chimes and a message in the driver information center will alert the drive to check the second row before leaving the vehicle.
We noted the cabin was extremely quite during our test drive. Parking with improved turning radius was a breeze at the mall. The 4-cylinder motor was adequate in reaching cruising speed on the Interstate including accelerated entry.
Our Acadia had a base price of $38,350; options and destination charges added to a total price of $40,515.
BOTTOM LINE: The all-new GMC Acadia should definitely be a consideration for your next crossover purchase.
2017 Nissan Rogue
by Bob Kroupa
Nissan capitalized on the early date of the Miami International Auto Show for the World introduction of their 2017 Rogue Crossover. The introduction model was Monarch Orange in color and made quite a statement with hundreds of journalists in attendance. Highlights of the new Rogue follow.
NEW 2017 NISSAN ROGUE: EXTENSIVE ENHANCEMENTS
Refined Exterior Design for 2017
The new Rogue offers updated exterior styling – which includes a new front fascia with integrated fog lamps, bumper, Nissan signature "V-Motion" grille and revised headlights with LED signature Daytime Running Lights –designed to enhance Rogue’s robust, dynamic presence.
In the rear, a new bumper and revised rear combination lamps with LED boomerang signature taillights have been added, while new chrome-trim side door moldings complete the freshened appearance. New, aggressive 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels are also available on SL models, rounding out the upscale look of 2017 Rogue.
Refined Interior for 2017
The 2017 Rogue is offered with standard 2-row/5-passenger seating and optional 3-row/7-passenger seating (not available with Rogue Hybrid), which is possible thanks to its interior packaging efficiency. With its innovative EZ Flex Seating System™, every seat except the driver’s easily folds down. The front passenger seat folds rearwards, allowing transport of long items such as an 8-foot ladder when combined with the flat folding 40/20/40-split 2nd row seat.
Among the interior enhancements found in the 2017 Rogue are a new D-shaped steering wheel and leather-booted sport-mode shifter, available heated steering wheel, memory for driver’s seats and mirror, and remote engine start2. Enhanced design features include new door and instrument panel finishers, new shift knob design, revised center console and console lid and new seat fabric. The result is a more premium look and feel. Also new is a Platinum Reserve Interior Package (available on Rogue SL) highlighted by premium tan leather-appointed seats with special quilted leather inserts.
Standard interior features include SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately), 5.0-inch center meter color display (Advanced Driver Assist™ Display), 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary audio input jack, USB connection port for iPod® interface and other compatible devices, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, RearView Monitor, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant (compatible smartphone required). Also available are dual-zone automatic air conditioning and Bose® audio system with nine speakers. The new Remote Engine Start (RES) system2 provides flexibility to start the Rogue remotely using the keyless entry fob.
Three interior colors are offered: Charcoal and Almond, along with the special Premium Tan with the Platinum Reserve Interior Package.
Advanced Safety and Security, Connectivity and Driving Aid Features
Rogue Safety Shield technologies include radar-based Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), both now available on Rogue SV grade (in addition to Rogue SL). The 2017 Rogue is also available for the first time with Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP). Two Safety Shield technologies are new to Rogue for 2017 – Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC)5 and Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection6. Both are optional for Rogue SL as part of the new Platinum Package.
The 2017 Rogue has a number of available connected technology and smartphone integration features, including NissanConnectSM with Navigation, Mobile Apps and Services. It offers a 7.0-inch color touch-screen display, Nissan Voice Recognition for navigation and audio, SiriusXM® Traffic and SiriusXM® Travel Link™ (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately).
Choice of Two Powertrains, Including First-Ever Rogue Hybrid
The Rogue model lineup expands for the 2017 model year with the addition of a second powertrain – a new gasoline-electric hybrid – to the standard 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine.
The new Rogue Hybrid utilizes Nissan’s advanced Intelligent Dual Clutch system. It uses a compact Lithium-ion battery and electric motor to provide supplementary power through its one-motor/two-clutch system. The advanced 2.0-liter gasoline engine is rated at 141 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque. The electric motor is rated at 40 horsepower, with net system horsepower estimated at 176 hp. The system also includes an Idle Start/Stop system and an Intelligent Regenerative Braking system.
Its 2.0-liter engine and 30kW electric motor, connected to the advanced Xtronic transmission, produces projected fuel economy1 of 33 mpg city, 35 mpg highway and 34 mpg combined (estimated) for the front-wheel drive model. Rogue Hybrid all-wheel drive models are projected at 31 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 33 mpg combined (estimated).
"The new, first-ever Rogue Hybrid combines an outstanding, direct acceleration feel in city driving – along with fuel economy that is among the leaders in the compact SUV segment," said Michael Bunce, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc.
Non-hybrid 2017 Rogue models are equipped with a responsive 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft or torque. The engine is matched with an advanced Xtronic transmission with standard Sport Mode and Eco switches. Non-hybrid fuel economy is projected at 26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined for front-wheel drive models. Rogue AWD models are estimated at 25 mpg city, 32 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined.
A Range of Well-Equipped Rogue Models
The 2017 Nissan Rogue comes in three well-equipped models – S, SV and SL, each in a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Rogue Hybrid is offered in two grade levels – SV and SL, in FWD or AWD (late availability).
Along with the long list of standard features found on Rogue S, the Rogue SV adds 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, privacy glass, Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition, 6-way power driver’s seat and power driver’s seat lumbar support. The Rogue SV also includes two additional audio system speakers, roof rails and Smart Auto on/off headlights. New items added to the SV grade for 2017 include Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, heated outside mirrors, heated cloth-appointed front seats and remote engine start.
Bottom Line: This Rogue is worthy of a visit to your Nissan dealer for your personal ride and review!
by Bob Kroupa
Nissan capitalized on the early date of the Miami International Auto Show for the World introduction of their 2017 Rogue Crossover. The introduction model was Monarch Orange in color and made quite a statement with hundreds of journalists in attendance. Highlights of the new Rogue follow.
NEW 2017 NISSAN ROGUE: EXTENSIVE ENHANCEMENTS
Refined Exterior Design for 2017
The new Rogue offers updated exterior styling – which includes a new front fascia with integrated fog lamps, bumper, Nissan signature "V-Motion" grille and revised headlights with LED signature Daytime Running Lights –designed to enhance Rogue’s robust, dynamic presence.
In the rear, a new bumper and revised rear combination lamps with LED boomerang signature taillights have been added, while new chrome-trim side door moldings complete the freshened appearance. New, aggressive 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels are also available on SL models, rounding out the upscale look of 2017 Rogue.
Refined Interior for 2017
The 2017 Rogue is offered with standard 2-row/5-passenger seating and optional 3-row/7-passenger seating (not available with Rogue Hybrid), which is possible thanks to its interior packaging efficiency. With its innovative EZ Flex Seating System™, every seat except the driver’s easily folds down. The front passenger seat folds rearwards, allowing transport of long items such as an 8-foot ladder when combined with the flat folding 40/20/40-split 2nd row seat.
Among the interior enhancements found in the 2017 Rogue are a new D-shaped steering wheel and leather-booted sport-mode shifter, available heated steering wheel, memory for driver’s seats and mirror, and remote engine start2. Enhanced design features include new door and instrument panel finishers, new shift knob design, revised center console and console lid and new seat fabric. The result is a more premium look and feel. Also new is a Platinum Reserve Interior Package (available on Rogue SL) highlighted by premium tan leather-appointed seats with special quilted leather inserts.
Standard interior features include SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately), 5.0-inch center meter color display (Advanced Driver Assist™ Display), 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary audio input jack, USB connection port for iPod® interface and other compatible devices, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, RearView Monitor, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant (compatible smartphone required). Also available are dual-zone automatic air conditioning and Bose® audio system with nine speakers. The new Remote Engine Start (RES) system2 provides flexibility to start the Rogue remotely using the keyless entry fob.
Three interior colors are offered: Charcoal and Almond, along with the special Premium Tan with the Platinum Reserve Interior Package.
Advanced Safety and Security, Connectivity and Driving Aid Features
Rogue Safety Shield technologies include radar-based Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), both now available on Rogue SV grade (in addition to Rogue SL). The 2017 Rogue is also available for the first time with Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP). Two Safety Shield technologies are new to Rogue for 2017 – Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC)5 and Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection6. Both are optional for Rogue SL as part of the new Platinum Package.
The 2017 Rogue has a number of available connected technology and smartphone integration features, including NissanConnectSM with Navigation, Mobile Apps and Services. It offers a 7.0-inch color touch-screen display, Nissan Voice Recognition for navigation and audio, SiriusXM® Traffic and SiriusXM® Travel Link™ (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately).
Choice of Two Powertrains, Including First-Ever Rogue Hybrid
The Rogue model lineup expands for the 2017 model year with the addition of a second powertrain – a new gasoline-electric hybrid – to the standard 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine.
The new Rogue Hybrid utilizes Nissan’s advanced Intelligent Dual Clutch system. It uses a compact Lithium-ion battery and electric motor to provide supplementary power through its one-motor/two-clutch system. The advanced 2.0-liter gasoline engine is rated at 141 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque. The electric motor is rated at 40 horsepower, with net system horsepower estimated at 176 hp. The system also includes an Idle Start/Stop system and an Intelligent Regenerative Braking system.
Its 2.0-liter engine and 30kW electric motor, connected to the advanced Xtronic transmission, produces projected fuel economy1 of 33 mpg city, 35 mpg highway and 34 mpg combined (estimated) for the front-wheel drive model. Rogue Hybrid all-wheel drive models are projected at 31 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 33 mpg combined (estimated).
"The new, first-ever Rogue Hybrid combines an outstanding, direct acceleration feel in city driving – along with fuel economy that is among the leaders in the compact SUV segment," said Michael Bunce, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc.
Non-hybrid 2017 Rogue models are equipped with a responsive 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft or torque. The engine is matched with an advanced Xtronic transmission with standard Sport Mode and Eco switches. Non-hybrid fuel economy is projected at 26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway and 29 mpg combined for front-wheel drive models. Rogue AWD models are estimated at 25 mpg city, 32 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined.
A Range of Well-Equipped Rogue Models
The 2017 Nissan Rogue comes in three well-equipped models – S, SV and SL, each in a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Rogue Hybrid is offered in two grade levels – SV and SL, in FWD or AWD (late availability).
Along with the long list of standard features found on Rogue S, the Rogue SV adds 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, privacy glass, Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition, 6-way power driver’s seat and power driver’s seat lumbar support. The Rogue SV also includes two additional audio system speakers, roof rails and Smart Auto on/off headlights. New items added to the SV grade for 2017 include Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, heated outside mirrors, heated cloth-appointed front seats and remote engine start.
Bottom Line: This Rogue is worthy of a visit to your Nissan dealer for your personal ride and review!
2017 Nissan Armada
By Larry Rust
One of the first previews at this year's Chicago Auto Show was the new, next generation, 2017 Nissan Armada. This eight passenger, full size SUV is to be in showrooms this summer. Both the exterior and interior have been redesigned.
The interior will be offered in three trim levels: SV, SL and Platinum with available 2WD or 4WD in each trim level. In addition to the standard features offered in the SV, the SL will add a remote engine start system, a power 60/40 third row seat, Around View Monitor (AVM) and power lift gate to name a few. The Platinum level will add a power sliding moon roof, front climate controlled seats, an entertainment system and Nissan's Safety System technology.
The new Armada will be powered by an Endurance V8 that has the same 5.6 Liter size as the previous vehicles but with an increase in horsepower to 390 because of engineered systems that provide better performance and fuel economy. Coupled to this engine is a new advanced 7-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous 5-speed transmission. This new transmission also helps the fuel economy of the new Armada. The 2017 Armada will have a standard towing capacity of 8,500 lbs. in both the 2WD and 4WD models.
The Platinum version will feature a power moonroof, front seats that are both heated and cooled, an entertainment system and Nissan's Safety technologies.
Just four option packages are being offered for this vehicle: a Driver's Package, a Moonroof Package, a Technology Package with the fourth option being a Captain's Chair Package for the second row seats.
With the large array of standard features and available extra features for safety and convenience this vehicle has been designed for the family looking for that new adventure.
The new Armada will be assembled in Japan, with the Endurance V8 assembled in Tennessee. The vehicle will be available in summer 2016.
By Larry Rust
One of the first previews at this year's Chicago Auto Show was the new, next generation, 2017 Nissan Armada. This eight passenger, full size SUV is to be in showrooms this summer. Both the exterior and interior have been redesigned.
The interior will be offered in three trim levels: SV, SL and Platinum with available 2WD or 4WD in each trim level. In addition to the standard features offered in the SV, the SL will add a remote engine start system, a power 60/40 third row seat, Around View Monitor (AVM) and power lift gate to name a few. The Platinum level will add a power sliding moon roof, front climate controlled seats, an entertainment system and Nissan's Safety System technology.
The new Armada will be powered by an Endurance V8 that has the same 5.6 Liter size as the previous vehicles but with an increase in horsepower to 390 because of engineered systems that provide better performance and fuel economy. Coupled to this engine is a new advanced 7-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous 5-speed transmission. This new transmission also helps the fuel economy of the new Armada. The 2017 Armada will have a standard towing capacity of 8,500 lbs. in both the 2WD and 4WD models.
The Platinum version will feature a power moonroof, front seats that are both heated and cooled, an entertainment system and Nissan's Safety technologies.
Just four option packages are being offered for this vehicle: a Driver's Package, a Moonroof Package, a Technology Package with the fourth option being a Captain's Chair Package for the second row seats.
With the large array of standard features and available extra features for safety and convenience this vehicle has been designed for the family looking for that new adventure.
The new Armada will be assembled in Japan, with the Endurance V8 assembled in Tennessee. The vehicle will be available in summer 2016.
2015 Ford Edge
by Larry Rust
Recently I had the opportunity to drive a 2015 Ford Edge SUV. My daily excursions gave me the chance to really get to know the vehicle. It was quiet and a pleasure to drive. The Edge was redesigned for 2015 and, from what I could see, Ford did a nice job inside and out.
I was really impressed with the comfort of the front seats. The seat back fit me like a glove with great lower back support. I could have easily taken a long trip without any discomfort. The two-toned seat material gave the interior a luxury/sporty look.
This Edge was the top of the line Titanium Edition. It was not lacking for anything. It had heated, as well as cooled, leather trimmed 10-way power front seats, heated 60/40 split rear seats and a heated steering wheel. A nice touch to the interior was lighted front cup holders as well as lighted door sill plates below the front doors. A Panoramic Vista sunroof from front to back complimented the nicely appointed interior.
Other convenience features included remote start, keyless push button start, parallel parking assist, rearview camera, front view camera, universal garage door opener, rain sensing wipers , voice activated navigation, a Sony Premium Stereo AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio, Ford's SYNC with MyFord Touch Control and a hands-free automatic lift gate.
Safety features included a lane departure warning system, collision warning with braking support, front and side air bags, second row seat inflatable seat belts, a perimeter alarm system and an SOS post-crash alert system utilizing the Sirius satellite radio.
The Edge was equipped with a 2.0 Liter four cylinder EcoBoost engine with 245 HP and a torque rating of 275 lb-ft . which proved to be very responsive. It was coupled with a six speed automatic transmission, AWD and paddle shifters. The EPA economy rating is 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
The base price for this vehicle was $37,595.00. The MSRP for this vehicle with equipment group discounts and delivery charges was $43,190.00.
by Larry Rust
Recently I had the opportunity to drive a 2015 Ford Edge SUV. My daily excursions gave me the chance to really get to know the vehicle. It was quiet and a pleasure to drive. The Edge was redesigned for 2015 and, from what I could see, Ford did a nice job inside and out.
I was really impressed with the comfort of the front seats. The seat back fit me like a glove with great lower back support. I could have easily taken a long trip without any discomfort. The two-toned seat material gave the interior a luxury/sporty look.
This Edge was the top of the line Titanium Edition. It was not lacking for anything. It had heated, as well as cooled, leather trimmed 10-way power front seats, heated 60/40 split rear seats and a heated steering wheel. A nice touch to the interior was lighted front cup holders as well as lighted door sill plates below the front doors. A Panoramic Vista sunroof from front to back complimented the nicely appointed interior.
Other convenience features included remote start, keyless push button start, parallel parking assist, rearview camera, front view camera, universal garage door opener, rain sensing wipers , voice activated navigation, a Sony Premium Stereo AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio, Ford's SYNC with MyFord Touch Control and a hands-free automatic lift gate.
Safety features included a lane departure warning system, collision warning with braking support, front and side air bags, second row seat inflatable seat belts, a perimeter alarm system and an SOS post-crash alert system utilizing the Sirius satellite radio.
The Edge was equipped with a 2.0 Liter four cylinder EcoBoost engine with 245 HP and a torque rating of 275 lb-ft . which proved to be very responsive. It was coupled with a six speed automatic transmission, AWD and paddle shifters. The EPA economy rating is 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
The base price for this vehicle was $37,595.00. The MSRP for this vehicle with equipment group discounts and delivery charges was $43,190.00.
2016 Land Rover Range Rover Td6
By Jim Jackson
Land Rover greets the New Year with its first U.S. market diesel-powered 2016 Ranger Rover and Range Rover Sport SUVs.
The British-built duo badged Td6, joins America’s sport utility diesel segment currently dominated by German competitors. Rover’s new 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine builds 440 pound-feet of torque at 1750 revolutions per minute coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Horsepower is rated at 254. The Td6 power plant offers a 32-percent improvement in fuel economy over the V6 gasoline version to yield 22 miles per gallon/city and 28 mpg/highway for driving range that reaches 658 miles on a single tank of fuel.
I spent extensive time driving the Td6 models, both on highway and punishing rock-strewn back roads. The performance and capability of the new Range Rover Td6 is extraordinary with precision handling doled out by Land Rover’s All Terrain Progress Control system. Off-road, ATRC and low-end engine torque team to provide the driver safe up and down hill crawls without use of the accelerator. Speed is managed with a tap of steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift controls for a near autonomous driving experience that gives the operator a new level of confidence when tackling back-country obstacles.
Noticeably absent is the invasion of outside noise into the cabin. Land Rover engineers have isolated diesel engine clatter from the passenger compartment with acoustic windshield and engine bay treatments to minimize the sound. Specially design engine mounts and graphite-iron engine block construction reduces vibration while a ridged body neutralizes structural flex off-road and wind noise at highway speed for vault-quiet quarters.
Inside, five occupants enjoy plush climate controlled leather-wrapped seats that accommodates four adult riders with a comfortable trip across-town or cross country. A new infotainment system, standard 380-watt Meridian audio system, panoramic sunroof and ambient evening lights enhance the interior space.
The arrival of the Td6 diesel engine brings Land Rover’s powertrain choice full-circle for the premium SUV buyer in the American marketplace.
Cost for the 2016 Range Rover Sport Td6 starts at $66,450 with the 2016 Range Rover Td6 an-teed to $86,450. Add $995 across the line for freight.
By Jim Jackson
Land Rover greets the New Year with its first U.S. market diesel-powered 2016 Ranger Rover and Range Rover Sport SUVs.
The British-built duo badged Td6, joins America’s sport utility diesel segment currently dominated by German competitors. Rover’s new 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine builds 440 pound-feet of torque at 1750 revolutions per minute coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Horsepower is rated at 254. The Td6 power plant offers a 32-percent improvement in fuel economy over the V6 gasoline version to yield 22 miles per gallon/city and 28 mpg/highway for driving range that reaches 658 miles on a single tank of fuel.
I spent extensive time driving the Td6 models, both on highway and punishing rock-strewn back roads. The performance and capability of the new Range Rover Td6 is extraordinary with precision handling doled out by Land Rover’s All Terrain Progress Control system. Off-road, ATRC and low-end engine torque team to provide the driver safe up and down hill crawls without use of the accelerator. Speed is managed with a tap of steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift controls for a near autonomous driving experience that gives the operator a new level of confidence when tackling back-country obstacles.
Noticeably absent is the invasion of outside noise into the cabin. Land Rover engineers have isolated diesel engine clatter from the passenger compartment with acoustic windshield and engine bay treatments to minimize the sound. Specially design engine mounts and graphite-iron engine block construction reduces vibration while a ridged body neutralizes structural flex off-road and wind noise at highway speed for vault-quiet quarters.
Inside, five occupants enjoy plush climate controlled leather-wrapped seats that accommodates four adult riders with a comfortable trip across-town or cross country. A new infotainment system, standard 380-watt Meridian audio system, panoramic sunroof and ambient evening lights enhance the interior space.
The arrival of the Td6 diesel engine brings Land Rover’s powertrain choice full-circle for the premium SUV buyer in the American marketplace.
Cost for the 2016 Range Rover Sport Td6 starts at $66,450 with the 2016 Range Rover Td6 an-teed to $86,450. Add $995 across the line for freight.
2016 Volvo XC90
“XC90 draws on concept styling”
By Jim Jackson
Cloning production vehicles from concept car designs is widely practiced by today’s auto industry. Swedish automaker Volvo follows this popular pattern with the 2016 Volvo XC90 sport utility mirrored from the brand’s Concept XC Coupe and Concept Estate show cars.
Available now, the 7-passenger 2016 XC90 T6 is first in line for Volvo’s new design language that will encompass their entire product portfolio by 2018.
Leading the design elements is a larger grille logo flanked by T-shaped, “Thor’s Hammer” LED daytime running lights and lower front valance peeled directly off Volvo’s concept vehicles. Behind XC90’s new face is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder supercharged turbo gasoline engine that builds 316 horsepower paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is rated at 20 miles per gallon/city and 25 mpg/highway.
A second Volvo XC90 model named ‘T8’ will debut this fall coupling the 2.0L with a rear axle-mounted electric motor to become the world’s first 7-passenger plug-in electric vehicle. The T8 is expected to achieve over 50 mpg in town, and when driven in Pure electric mode, can travel up to 17 miles without use of the gasoline engine.
Need more?
The 2016 Volvo XC90 T8’s 2.0L engine and electric motor generates a total system output of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque and runs its all-wheel drivetrain.
Inside, XC90’s 2-3-2 seat configuration features supple leather upholstery front to back with tiered seating levels that give all riders an unobstructed view through the cabin. Headroom is generous in the first and second rows, but tops out at 5-feet 6-inches for third row occupants.
XC90’s quarters carry clean Scandinavian design with sweeping contours accented by natural wood trim while an available Bowers & Wilkins audio system positions all riders for an auditorium ‘seventh row-center’ high-fidelity surround sound experience. Cargo space behind the third row measures 13 cubic feet. Over 85 cu-ft is rendered with the second and third row placed flat.
Adaptive cruise control, lane keeping aid and the world’s first run-off protection and intersection auto brake is standard.
The 2016 Volvo XC90 comes in three trim levels with the base T6 starting at $48,900. Cost for the T8 model begins at $68,100. Add $995 for freight.
“XC90 draws on concept styling”
By Jim Jackson
Cloning production vehicles from concept car designs is widely practiced by today’s auto industry. Swedish automaker Volvo follows this popular pattern with the 2016 Volvo XC90 sport utility mirrored from the brand’s Concept XC Coupe and Concept Estate show cars.
Available now, the 7-passenger 2016 XC90 T6 is first in line for Volvo’s new design language that will encompass their entire product portfolio by 2018.
Leading the design elements is a larger grille logo flanked by T-shaped, “Thor’s Hammer” LED daytime running lights and lower front valance peeled directly off Volvo’s concept vehicles. Behind XC90’s new face is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder supercharged turbo gasoline engine that builds 316 horsepower paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is rated at 20 miles per gallon/city and 25 mpg/highway.
A second Volvo XC90 model named ‘T8’ will debut this fall coupling the 2.0L with a rear axle-mounted electric motor to become the world’s first 7-passenger plug-in electric vehicle. The T8 is expected to achieve over 50 mpg in town, and when driven in Pure electric mode, can travel up to 17 miles without use of the gasoline engine.
Need more?
The 2016 Volvo XC90 T8’s 2.0L engine and electric motor generates a total system output of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque and runs its all-wheel drivetrain.
Inside, XC90’s 2-3-2 seat configuration features supple leather upholstery front to back with tiered seating levels that give all riders an unobstructed view through the cabin. Headroom is generous in the first and second rows, but tops out at 5-feet 6-inches for third row occupants.
XC90’s quarters carry clean Scandinavian design with sweeping contours accented by natural wood trim while an available Bowers & Wilkins audio system positions all riders for an auditorium ‘seventh row-center’ high-fidelity surround sound experience. Cargo space behind the third row measures 13 cubic feet. Over 85 cu-ft is rendered with the second and third row placed flat.
Adaptive cruise control, lane keeping aid and the world’s first run-off protection and intersection auto brake is standard.
The 2016 Volvo XC90 comes in three trim levels with the base T6 starting at $48,900. Cost for the T8 model begins at $68,100. Add $995 for freight.
“Jeep tracks ‘Trail Rated’ Renegade
by Jim Jackson
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles breaks the mold with their first collaborative “4X4 Trail Rated” vehicle. This year, the Italian-American automaker sears the iconic Fiat and Jeep brands together to form the 2015 Jeep Renegade.
Renegade becomes the smallest model in the Jeep lineup when it arrives this month shipped in Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk models.
No less capable, the five-passenger 2015 Renegade goes shoulder to shoulder with its legendary Jeep siblings on- and off-road based on Fiat-Chrysler’s “small-wide 4X4 architecture” inspired by the Jeep Wrangler.
Recently, I tested the 2015 Jeep Renegade’s capability at the Hollister Hills Recreational Vehicle Park near Santa Cruz, California, followed by a winter evaluation in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The compact 2015 Jeep Renegade’s small but mighty stature and 101.2-inch wheelbase makes it nimble in close quarters regardless of seasonal conditions. Renegade’s bantam size gives way to a proportionate track width of 60.6-inches for solid stability when rolling over uneven terrain, backwoods obstacles or snowpack.
GRIPPING CONDITIONS
The 2015 Jeep Renegade comes with standard front-wheel drive on Sport, Latitude and Limited models. Renegade buyers also have choice of Jeep Active Drive or Active Drive Low four-wheel drive systems. Both applications feature Selec-Terrain Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud modes to maximize traction under those conditions. Jeep Active Drive is available on all Renegade models for seamless full-time four-wheel traction as needed for the daily commute.
The 2015 Jeep Renegade champions its Trail Rated capability with the 4X4 only Renegade Trailhawk that features standard Active Drive Low and a special low range “Rock” mode with Hill Descent Control and 20:1 crawl ratio. Snow mode makes Quebec’s winter conditions easy to handle with loads of traction and up to 8.7 inches of ground clearance on the Renegade Trailhawk. Standard 4X2 clearance is 6.7 inches.
Jeep Renegade Sport and Latitude come with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that musters 160 horsepower mated to a 6-speed manual transmission providing plenty of stamina with no preplanning necessary when overtaking vehicles on the highway. Jeep is the only brand to offer a manual gearbox with a four-wheel drive system. Renegade ups the ante on the power curve with a 2.4L Tigershark 4-cylinder engine on Limited and Trailhawk for 180 hp tacked to a segment-first 9-speed automatic transmission. Manual transmission is not available on Trailhawk. Both engines achieve 30 miles per gallon on the highway. Ride quality and sports car-like steering is excellent on-road regardless of engines. Noise bleeds heavy into the cabin when the 2.4L is under power, however.
Renegade masters stability and control on slick surfaces with its compact footprint anchored by 16-18 inch all-season tires depending on model.
The all-new 2015 Jeep Renegade passes muster to handle the riggers of a Midwest winter priced to start at $17,995 plus freight.
by Jim Jackson
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles breaks the mold with their first collaborative “4X4 Trail Rated” vehicle. This year, the Italian-American automaker sears the iconic Fiat and Jeep brands together to form the 2015 Jeep Renegade.
Renegade becomes the smallest model in the Jeep lineup when it arrives this month shipped in Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk models.
No less capable, the five-passenger 2015 Renegade goes shoulder to shoulder with its legendary Jeep siblings on- and off-road based on Fiat-Chrysler’s “small-wide 4X4 architecture” inspired by the Jeep Wrangler.
Recently, I tested the 2015 Jeep Renegade’s capability at the Hollister Hills Recreational Vehicle Park near Santa Cruz, California, followed by a winter evaluation in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The compact 2015 Jeep Renegade’s small but mighty stature and 101.2-inch wheelbase makes it nimble in close quarters regardless of seasonal conditions. Renegade’s bantam size gives way to a proportionate track width of 60.6-inches for solid stability when rolling over uneven terrain, backwoods obstacles or snowpack.
GRIPPING CONDITIONS
The 2015 Jeep Renegade comes with standard front-wheel drive on Sport, Latitude and Limited models. Renegade buyers also have choice of Jeep Active Drive or Active Drive Low four-wheel drive systems. Both applications feature Selec-Terrain Auto, Snow, Sand and Mud modes to maximize traction under those conditions. Jeep Active Drive is available on all Renegade models for seamless full-time four-wheel traction as needed for the daily commute.
The 2015 Jeep Renegade champions its Trail Rated capability with the 4X4 only Renegade Trailhawk that features standard Active Drive Low and a special low range “Rock” mode with Hill Descent Control and 20:1 crawl ratio. Snow mode makes Quebec’s winter conditions easy to handle with loads of traction and up to 8.7 inches of ground clearance on the Renegade Trailhawk. Standard 4X2 clearance is 6.7 inches.
Jeep Renegade Sport and Latitude come with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that musters 160 horsepower mated to a 6-speed manual transmission providing plenty of stamina with no preplanning necessary when overtaking vehicles on the highway. Jeep is the only brand to offer a manual gearbox with a four-wheel drive system. Renegade ups the ante on the power curve with a 2.4L Tigershark 4-cylinder engine on Limited and Trailhawk for 180 hp tacked to a segment-first 9-speed automatic transmission. Manual transmission is not available on Trailhawk. Both engines achieve 30 miles per gallon on the highway. Ride quality and sports car-like steering is excellent on-road regardless of engines. Noise bleeds heavy into the cabin when the 2.4L is under power, however.
Renegade masters stability and control on slick surfaces with its compact footprint anchored by 16-18 inch all-season tires depending on model.
The all-new 2015 Jeep Renegade passes muster to handle the riggers of a Midwest winter priced to start at $17,995 plus freight.
2015 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SE S-AWD
By Bob Kroupa
Our Mitsubishi Outlander test drive was quite interesting in a number of ways. Before we even sat in the vehicle we checked the latest sales stats and found the Outlander's recent sales reflect monthly increases. The 2015 seven-month sales numbers show 9,225 units sold compared to the 2014 number with 7,967 sold for the same period.
We looked at warranties and found the Outlander has a power-train warranty of 10 year/100,000 miles. The general new vehicle limited warranty is 5 year/60,000 miles. To us, the warranty is a very important factor in the buying decision of the average consumer as this shows the confidence the manufacturer has in the product with limited cause for repairs.
Of course, pricing is always a key component in the buying decision. Our test vehicle had the SE trim package and super all-wheel control (AWD) for a list price of $26,195. In addition, it was equipped with the optional Premium package that included power glass sunroof, leather seats, black roof rails, premium sound package with nine surround speakers and subwoofer, Sirius XM radio, power driver's seat, wood grain interior trim and power remote tailgate. This 'add on' package was priced at $2,600.
The Outlander SW S-AWD is a very well equipped seven-passenger SUV for the 'right price'.
The road test provided ample power from the standard 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine pumping out 166 horsepower coupled with a continuously variable automatic transmission. When additional acceleration was required, a sport-driving mode is available. In addition, a snow and lock mode will provide selective rear drive.
The ride is comfortable, steering in traffic and parking has the 'right feel' with the vehicle's electric power steering. We were quite pleased with the overall handling of the Outlander in city driving and on the Interstate.
Fuel economy is good considering this is a seven-passenger AWD vehicle with three rows of seating. This Outlander's fuel economy is rated at 24/city and 29/highway MPG.
All the expected safety features were included, like the ABS, hill-start assist, traction and stability control, front mounted and side air bags, side curtain air bags, driver's knee air bag, latch child restraint system, anti-theft security alarm system and engine immobilizer. Also a rear view camera is included.
The interior is well designed with easy-to-read gauges and conventional control knobs. The climate control has dual controls for both the driver and front passenger. Leather seats are comfortable and heated for those chill days.
Entertainment features include AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system. Mitsubishi's FUSE Hands-Free Link System with UBS allows voice command for iPod and Cell Phone use.
Rear seating provides ample leg room for the second row with a 60/40 split seat. The third row seating is a bit tight for taller youth and adults with a 50/50 split seat. This last row of seats fold flat allowing for a 34.2 cu.-ft. of storage. With the second row also folded down, the storage space expands to 63.3 cu.-ft.
Lastly, the exterior has a great, clean look and design that is a carryover from the totally redesigned 2014 model. Our SE trim had 18 inch alloy wheels enhancing the stance and curb appeal of the 2015 model.
BOTTOM LINE: The Mitsubishi Outlander is definitely a contender in any buying decision.
By Bob Kroupa
Our Mitsubishi Outlander test drive was quite interesting in a number of ways. Before we even sat in the vehicle we checked the latest sales stats and found the Outlander's recent sales reflect monthly increases. The 2015 seven-month sales numbers show 9,225 units sold compared to the 2014 number with 7,967 sold for the same period.
We looked at warranties and found the Outlander has a power-train warranty of 10 year/100,000 miles. The general new vehicle limited warranty is 5 year/60,000 miles. To us, the warranty is a very important factor in the buying decision of the average consumer as this shows the confidence the manufacturer has in the product with limited cause for repairs.
Of course, pricing is always a key component in the buying decision. Our test vehicle had the SE trim package and super all-wheel control (AWD) for a list price of $26,195. In addition, it was equipped with the optional Premium package that included power glass sunroof, leather seats, black roof rails, premium sound package with nine surround speakers and subwoofer, Sirius XM radio, power driver's seat, wood grain interior trim and power remote tailgate. This 'add on' package was priced at $2,600.
The Outlander SW S-AWD is a very well equipped seven-passenger SUV for the 'right price'.
The road test provided ample power from the standard 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine pumping out 166 horsepower coupled with a continuously variable automatic transmission. When additional acceleration was required, a sport-driving mode is available. In addition, a snow and lock mode will provide selective rear drive.
The ride is comfortable, steering in traffic and parking has the 'right feel' with the vehicle's electric power steering. We were quite pleased with the overall handling of the Outlander in city driving and on the Interstate.
Fuel economy is good considering this is a seven-passenger AWD vehicle with three rows of seating. This Outlander's fuel economy is rated at 24/city and 29/highway MPG.
All the expected safety features were included, like the ABS, hill-start assist, traction and stability control, front mounted and side air bags, side curtain air bags, driver's knee air bag, latch child restraint system, anti-theft security alarm system and engine immobilizer. Also a rear view camera is included.
The interior is well designed with easy-to-read gauges and conventional control knobs. The climate control has dual controls for both the driver and front passenger. Leather seats are comfortable and heated for those chill days.
Entertainment features include AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system. Mitsubishi's FUSE Hands-Free Link System with UBS allows voice command for iPod and Cell Phone use.
Rear seating provides ample leg room for the second row with a 60/40 split seat. The third row seating is a bit tight for taller youth and adults with a 50/50 split seat. This last row of seats fold flat allowing for a 34.2 cu.-ft. of storage. With the second row also folded down, the storage space expands to 63.3 cu.-ft.
Lastly, the exterior has a great, clean look and design that is a carryover from the totally redesigned 2014 model. Our SE trim had 18 inch alloy wheels enhancing the stance and curb appeal of the 2015 model.
BOTTOM LINE: The Mitsubishi Outlander is definitely a contender in any buying decision.
2015 FORD EDGE
By Bob Kroupa
First launched in late 2006, Ford's Edge set the new standard for the midsize, crossover segment. Built on a car platform providing a comfortable car-like ride, the Edge had the versatility of a standard SUV. A real winner was born.
Fast forward to the second generation 2015 Ford Edge: During the decade since the Edge was introduced, automotive technology, safety and drivetrains have all made a major thrust forward. The good news is all these have given a major boost to the Edge, all new from top to bottom.
Prior to our test drive, Ford's enthusiastic design, engineering and marketing teams set the stage with an excellent overview of the technology and features to be experienced in the new Edge. Not only were they correct in their assessments, but the Edge responded over and above our expectations. A job well done!
Starting with the body design, it pleases the eye with a traditional grill unit that encases the headlamps, parking lights and turn signals. The hood is sculpted and slopped forward to provide excellent road visibility.
Raised beltlines at the door handles and lower doors add to an aggressive stance, enhanced by perfectly designed wheel well flares.
Rear design provides a top mounted body-like spoiler with wraparound LED tail lamps that are connected across the rear deck lid. Dual bright integrated exhausts are standard on all models.
One can really appreciate the interior design work of the new Edge when compared to the past models. At the 2015 Edge introduction, a display showed the door panel from the 2014 Edge next to the 2015 door panel. The new door panel had neat design elements and a 'soft touch' to the finished materials. These features also carried over to the center console.
Seating was comfortable on our test drive and we found an abundance of storage for the front passenger including an open storage area under the front center stack, a deep storage compartment under the wide center armrest and a closable compartment over the center stack.
Rear seating was a 60/40 split with reclining seats and ample leg room for passengers.
Adding to the versatility of the Edge was its increased cargo space behind the rear seats going from a normal 39.2 cubic feet to 73.4 cubic feet when the second row seats are folded flat. To do this, Ford added four inches of length and an inch of wheelbase to the 2015 Edge.
Our "WOW!" factor was the engine technology that is featured in the all-new Edge. The base powerplant engine is new, a twin-scroll 2.0 liter EcoBoost four-cylinder rated at 245 horsepower and 275 lb.-ft. of torque. Adding to the capability of the new base engine is the availability of all-wheel drive and a towing package capable of hauling a 3,500 pound trailer!
In addition to the base engine, two additional powerplants are available: 1.) a 2.7 liter EcoBoost V6 motor rated at 315 HP with 375 lb.-ft. of torque, and 2.) a naturally aspirated 3.5 liter V6 rated at 280 HP. For the performance minded the 2.7 liter V6 twin-turbo charged motor can be termed the 'acceleration' engine with reduced turbo lag.
All three engines are mated with Ford's SelectShift six-speed automatic transmission featuring standard paddle-shift activation on the steering wheel. In addition, the SelectShift transmission has two modes of operation, drive and sport. The sport mode offers a more aggressive shift pattern.
Fuel economy is rated at 20 MPG City, 30 MPG Highway for a combined total of 24 MPG for the front wheel drive Edge with the base engine.
Four trim levels are available. The base, SE, has a MSRP of $28,995 including destination charges. The SEL model is the next level available. The Sport Edition offers the 2.7 liter twin turbo V6 as the standard engine and the Titanium Edition can be termed the luxury model with premium offerings.
Standard features for the SE trim are in abundance including remote keyless entry, push button start, hill start assist, automatic transmission, cruise control, Ford's basic SYNC system AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, 18" painted wheels and acoustic windshield glass along with acoustic underbody panels and wheel well liners reducing road and wind noise.
Available technology features include Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support, Blind Spot information system, Cross-traffic alert, hands-free liftgate, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel and Lane-keeping system. Also, Enhanced active parking assist is available to guide the vehicle into a perpendicular parking space as well as into and out of a parallel parking space. This is a huge leap forward in technology support for this market segment.
Safety features include front and side air bags in addition to a glove door mounted air bag to protect the front passengers' knees, driver knee bag, Advance Trac-Roll Stability Control and Curve Control and Roll Stability Control and rear camera.
BOTTOM LINE: Visit your Ford Dealer to experience the amazing range of technology available in the all-new 2015 Ford Edge and get more details at ford.com/EDGE. If you want the latest technology and design available, the 2015 is definitely a feature-rich Crossover worthy of a purchase consideration.
By Bob Kroupa
First launched in late 2006, Ford's Edge set the new standard for the midsize, crossover segment. Built on a car platform providing a comfortable car-like ride, the Edge had the versatility of a standard SUV. A real winner was born.
Fast forward to the second generation 2015 Ford Edge: During the decade since the Edge was introduced, automotive technology, safety and drivetrains have all made a major thrust forward. The good news is all these have given a major boost to the Edge, all new from top to bottom.
Prior to our test drive, Ford's enthusiastic design, engineering and marketing teams set the stage with an excellent overview of the technology and features to be experienced in the new Edge. Not only were they correct in their assessments, but the Edge responded over and above our expectations. A job well done!
Starting with the body design, it pleases the eye with a traditional grill unit that encases the headlamps, parking lights and turn signals. The hood is sculpted and slopped forward to provide excellent road visibility.
Raised beltlines at the door handles and lower doors add to an aggressive stance, enhanced by perfectly designed wheel well flares.
Rear design provides a top mounted body-like spoiler with wraparound LED tail lamps that are connected across the rear deck lid. Dual bright integrated exhausts are standard on all models.
One can really appreciate the interior design work of the new Edge when compared to the past models. At the 2015 Edge introduction, a display showed the door panel from the 2014 Edge next to the 2015 door panel. The new door panel had neat design elements and a 'soft touch' to the finished materials. These features also carried over to the center console.
Seating was comfortable on our test drive and we found an abundance of storage for the front passenger including an open storage area under the front center stack, a deep storage compartment under the wide center armrest and a closable compartment over the center stack.
Rear seating was a 60/40 split with reclining seats and ample leg room for passengers.
Adding to the versatility of the Edge was its increased cargo space behind the rear seats going from a normal 39.2 cubic feet to 73.4 cubic feet when the second row seats are folded flat. To do this, Ford added four inches of length and an inch of wheelbase to the 2015 Edge.
Our "WOW!" factor was the engine technology that is featured in the all-new Edge. The base powerplant engine is new, a twin-scroll 2.0 liter EcoBoost four-cylinder rated at 245 horsepower and 275 lb.-ft. of torque. Adding to the capability of the new base engine is the availability of all-wheel drive and a towing package capable of hauling a 3,500 pound trailer!
In addition to the base engine, two additional powerplants are available: 1.) a 2.7 liter EcoBoost V6 motor rated at 315 HP with 375 lb.-ft. of torque, and 2.) a naturally aspirated 3.5 liter V6 rated at 280 HP. For the performance minded the 2.7 liter V6 twin-turbo charged motor can be termed the 'acceleration' engine with reduced turbo lag.
All three engines are mated with Ford's SelectShift six-speed automatic transmission featuring standard paddle-shift activation on the steering wheel. In addition, the SelectShift transmission has two modes of operation, drive and sport. The sport mode offers a more aggressive shift pattern.
Fuel economy is rated at 20 MPG City, 30 MPG Highway for a combined total of 24 MPG for the front wheel drive Edge with the base engine.
Four trim levels are available. The base, SE, has a MSRP of $28,995 including destination charges. The SEL model is the next level available. The Sport Edition offers the 2.7 liter twin turbo V6 as the standard engine and the Titanium Edition can be termed the luxury model with premium offerings.
Standard features for the SE trim are in abundance including remote keyless entry, push button start, hill start assist, automatic transmission, cruise control, Ford's basic SYNC system AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, 18" painted wheels and acoustic windshield glass along with acoustic underbody panels and wheel well liners reducing road and wind noise.
Available technology features include Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support, Blind Spot information system, Cross-traffic alert, hands-free liftgate, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel and Lane-keeping system. Also, Enhanced active parking assist is available to guide the vehicle into a perpendicular parking space as well as into and out of a parallel parking space. This is a huge leap forward in technology support for this market segment.
Safety features include front and side air bags in addition to a glove door mounted air bag to protect the front passengers' knees, driver knee bag, Advance Trac-Roll Stability Control and Curve Control and Roll Stability Control and rear camera.
BOTTOM LINE: Visit your Ford Dealer to experience the amazing range of technology available in the all-new 2015 Ford Edge and get more details at ford.com/EDGE. If you want the latest technology and design available, the 2015 is definitely a feature-rich Crossover worthy of a purchase consideration.
2015 CADILLAC ESCALADE 4WD PREMIUM
By Bob Kroupa
First introduced in 1999, the Escalade became the standard for Luxury Sport Utilities. Today, the fourth generation, all-new 2015 Escalade continues on its mission as the segment leader.
At a glance, one recognizes its traditional grill with the center mounted Cadillac logo crest. The all-new Escalade is equipped with full LED front lighting making a major lighting show after dark.
Being all new, this Escalade continues to have a retro look when one views the flat side panels with a chrome rub strip at the lower door lever, all enhanced by the 22" wheels with chrome inserts.
The LED lighting continues with elongated tail-lamps on the rear of the vehicle that extend to the roofline. A new, neat feature is the hidden rear wiper that provides the driver with a clear and clean rear view.
The Escalade's interior shows off an all-new interior with 2+2 second row seating as standard and an alternative traditional bench seat that is also available. And, third row seating is standard. Interior fabrics are layered materials of leather and suede, cut and sewn complimenting the real wood and metal accents on the seats, console, armrests and instrument panel. This new treatment conveys luxury created by quality workmanship.
The second and third row seats fold flat with power-folding for the third row from the driver's overhead console and/or the rear of the vehicle. Cargo space is a whopping 129.9 cubic feet when the second and third row seats are folded down.
On our test drive, the 12.3 inch high-resolution driver information center display was a welcome addition featuring an 8 inch color touch screen and new Text-to-Voice feature. For the music lover, a 16 speaker Bose cabin surround sound system is included with a Sirius XM and HD radio. Bluetooth is available for select phones and streaming audio devices. In addition, one of our favorites, the heads-up display, is also standard. Adding to driver and passenger convenience is a wireless charging capability on top of the center console.
Our ride was quiet, comfortable and smooth. Driving in city traffic and on the interstate was a breeze, even in a vehicle the size of the Escalade. One of the few options on our vehicle was a power retractable 'running board' for entry and exit into this beautifully designed and appointed SUV.
Powered by a 6.2 liter V-8 with direct injection, variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation, this all-new Escalade pumps out 420 horsepower with 460 lbs.-ft. of torque.
Fuel economy is 14 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. Performance is rated at 0-60 in less than 6 seconds. This is quite an accomplishment consider the 2015 Escalade weighs in at 5,600 pounds!
Key to the new Escalade is the emphasis on safety with the usual array of dual-stage front air bags, head-curtain side air bags and seat mounted side-impact air bags. New is a center front air bag for additional protection from a side-impact situation. A Driver Awareness Package includes Safety Alert Seat, Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning. A Driver Assist Package includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Collision Preparation, Front and Rear Automatic Braking and Automatic Safety Belt Tighting.
The base price of the all-new 2015 Escalade starts at $72,970. Our 2015 4WD Premium Edition Escalade had a base price of $82,795.
BOTTOM LINE: Visit your local Cadillac Dealer to see the Luxury SUV segment leader. Additional information can be found at cadillac.com/escalade.
By Bob Kroupa
First introduced in 1999, the Escalade became the standard for Luxury Sport Utilities. Today, the fourth generation, all-new 2015 Escalade continues on its mission as the segment leader.
At a glance, one recognizes its traditional grill with the center mounted Cadillac logo crest. The all-new Escalade is equipped with full LED front lighting making a major lighting show after dark.
Being all new, this Escalade continues to have a retro look when one views the flat side panels with a chrome rub strip at the lower door lever, all enhanced by the 22" wheels with chrome inserts.
The LED lighting continues with elongated tail-lamps on the rear of the vehicle that extend to the roofline. A new, neat feature is the hidden rear wiper that provides the driver with a clear and clean rear view.
The Escalade's interior shows off an all-new interior with 2+2 second row seating as standard and an alternative traditional bench seat that is also available. And, third row seating is standard. Interior fabrics are layered materials of leather and suede, cut and sewn complimenting the real wood and metal accents on the seats, console, armrests and instrument panel. This new treatment conveys luxury created by quality workmanship.
The second and third row seats fold flat with power-folding for the third row from the driver's overhead console and/or the rear of the vehicle. Cargo space is a whopping 129.9 cubic feet when the second and third row seats are folded down.
On our test drive, the 12.3 inch high-resolution driver information center display was a welcome addition featuring an 8 inch color touch screen and new Text-to-Voice feature. For the music lover, a 16 speaker Bose cabin surround sound system is included with a Sirius XM and HD radio. Bluetooth is available for select phones and streaming audio devices. In addition, one of our favorites, the heads-up display, is also standard. Adding to driver and passenger convenience is a wireless charging capability on top of the center console.
Our ride was quiet, comfortable and smooth. Driving in city traffic and on the interstate was a breeze, even in a vehicle the size of the Escalade. One of the few options on our vehicle was a power retractable 'running board' for entry and exit into this beautifully designed and appointed SUV.
Powered by a 6.2 liter V-8 with direct injection, variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation, this all-new Escalade pumps out 420 horsepower with 460 lbs.-ft. of torque.
Fuel economy is 14 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. Performance is rated at 0-60 in less than 6 seconds. This is quite an accomplishment consider the 2015 Escalade weighs in at 5,600 pounds!
Key to the new Escalade is the emphasis on safety with the usual array of dual-stage front air bags, head-curtain side air bags and seat mounted side-impact air bags. New is a center front air bag for additional protection from a side-impact situation. A Driver Awareness Package includes Safety Alert Seat, Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning. A Driver Assist Package includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Collision Preparation, Front and Rear Automatic Braking and Automatic Safety Belt Tighting.
The base price of the all-new 2015 Escalade starts at $72,970. Our 2015 4WD Premium Edition Escalade had a base price of $82,795.
BOTTOM LINE: Visit your local Cadillac Dealer to see the Luxury SUV segment leader. Additional information can be found at cadillac.com/escalade.
“Murano mirrors Concept design”
By Jim Jackson
CHICAGO - These days, what you see is likely what you’ll get from automakers’ concept cars on display at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show.
Smart thinking, considering many show-goers will fall hard for studio samples seen at this year’s event and look forward to the day manufacturers bring a mirror image model to production for purchase. But some show patrons’ dreams and best intentions will be lost to a brand’s slow concept-to-production development. Japanese automaker Nissan turns the look of the future around in less than 24 months from their Resonance Concept seen on the 2013 auto show circuit to the production 2015 Nissan Murano.
Inside and out, the third-generation Murano delivers on the Resonance promise with a near matching crossover vehicle that is available today in Murano S trim priced at $31,160. The SV, SL and Platinum models complete the 2015 Nissan Murano lineup.
Nissan’s concept design is carried forward on the mid-size Murano with a V-shaped grille and large boomerang-style halogen projector headlamps. Swaled sheet metal flows across Murano’s entire body with a concept-inspired ‘floating roof’. The illusion is cleverly created with dark tinted side and back glass and black painted rear roof pillar.
Out back, a chiseled rear fascia seamlessly integrates boomerang-shaped LED tail lights into the rear liftgate for a balanced illuminating design front to back. Staying true to form, inverted V-Motion bodywork also accentuates the rear hatch door.
Standard 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels along with chrome door handles, window trim and rocker panels add highlights to Murano’s profile.
SOCIAL SETTING
Nissan clones the Resonance Concept interior to a near perfect match for the 2015 Nissan Murano with a social lounge theme that is extremely inviting. Plush soft-touch surfaces completely surround five occupants in dual rows – each enjoying Nissan’s “Zero Gravity” seats inspired from NASA for excellent support for perfectly placed contours. Space is big throughout Murano’s cabin with generous hip, shoulder, head and legroom that accommodates adults over six-feet tall. An available moonroof is among the largest in the segment.
Murano’s interior fit and finish is superb with standard cloth upholstery that has the look and feel of suede. Leather seats come with upper trim levels. Cargo volume starts with 39.6 cubic feet behind the second row to a maximum 69.9 cu-ft when folded down.
Up front, the 2015 Murano arrives with a high-resolution 7-inch cluster between the driver gauges while a new 8-inch screen on the center stack manages infotainment, camera and navigation operations. Nissan’s Around View Monitor system, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot detection and forward collision warning that anticipates two vehicles ahead are popular Murano features.
The front-drive 2015 Nissan Murano is powered by a sole 3.5-liter V-6 engine that provides 260 horsepower. All-wheel drive adds $1600 to the bottom line.
2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport
By Jim Jackson
REYKJAVIK, ICELAND - Rare is the opportunity to conduct a vehicle evaluation during winter at a place where the name itself evokes cold conditions.
But that’s exactly what Land Rover did last month, bringing the compact 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport SUV for a winter test across the barren landscape of Iceland. Iceland is connected to the Arctic Circle, located at the juncture of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. The country’s extreme winter becomes the proving ground to test Land Rover Discovery Sport’s winter capabilities on- and off-pavement tackling 240 miles of desolate roads in the Botnsulur Mountain Region of southwest Iceland. Roads are narrow and built of crushed lava rock that is not routinely maintained. Road surfaces are often wind-polished sheets of glare ice. Some roads are marked “impassable”. Not for the Land Rover Discovery Sport. Land Rover outfitted our 5-passenger all-wheel drive (AWD) Discovery Sport with studded tires to combat the ice road surfaces.
Power is supplied by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that builds 240 horsepower coupled to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Land Rover’s Terrain Response System customizes the throttle mapping and torque distribution for General, Sand, Mud/Ruts and Grass/Gravel/Snow. The latter mode was the prudent choice for my Iceland winter drive. The system teams with Land Rover’s Hill Descent Control, stability and traction control for seamless rock solid handling.
Discovery’s AWD torque vectoring system is a built-in safety net that supplies grip to specific wheels to carry the vehicle along its intended path when slippage is detected in corners - a literal life saver on some of the ice roads traveled this trip. An 8.3-inch ground clearance makes deep snow travel a confident exercise, as does addressing sharp embankments when fording open water with Discovery’s 25-degree approach angle. Departure angle is 31-degrees.
TAKE A SEAT
Land Rover Discovery Sport is built to replace the outgoing Land Rover LR2, with underpinnings borrowed from the 2015 Land Rover Evoque. British-built Land Rover Discovery Sport is the first in the brand’s new styling theme and name structure shipped in SE, HSE and HSE-LUX models.
The standard five-passenger 2015 Land Rover Discover Sport comes with an available “5-plus-2” seat configuration that affords an optional third row for occasional passenger transport. Two youthful adults can utilize the seat for a cross-town jaunt, but it is best suited to youngsters for the long haul. Discovery’s front and second row riders enjoy ample head and legroom with an elevated stadium-style middle seat for an enhanced view through the cabin. The third row is elevated slightly higher than the middle seat. The second row also slides 6.3-inches to provide customized knee and leg space with split rear seatbacks that recline for added comfort and can fold down to create a maximum 60 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Over 28 cu-ft of space remains with the second row upright. An optional panoramic roof gives occupants an airy feel and spacious upward view.
All 2015 Discovery Sport models come with leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. A touch-screen interface, 10-speaker audio system, Bluetooth streaming, and USB/auxiliary ports are also included.
Navigation system, contrast-color roof, side steps, underbody shields, towing package and a black-trim package are popular options.
SAFETY MEASURES
Discovery Sport arrives with an emergency braking and forward-collision system that allows complete stops when obstacles are detected at speeds below 32 mph. The system also mitigates an impact at speeds below 50 mph.
Hill Descent control is standard. Lane departure warning system, perpendicular park assist and trailer-sway control are optional. Discovery’s standard full-time all-wheel drive system dedicates power to the front wheels until slippage is detected and then seamlessly engages the rear wheels for added grip on traction challenged road surfaces.
The 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport goes on sale this spring for $37,995 with freight.
Land Rover is not a typical sport utility vehicle. It is also not a brand punched out in cookie-cutter fashion built for the masses. Land Rover is special. So is the 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport.
By Jim Jackson
REYKJAVIK, ICELAND - Rare is the opportunity to conduct a vehicle evaluation during winter at a place where the name itself evokes cold conditions.
But that’s exactly what Land Rover did last month, bringing the compact 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport SUV for a winter test across the barren landscape of Iceland. Iceland is connected to the Arctic Circle, located at the juncture of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. The country’s extreme winter becomes the proving ground to test Land Rover Discovery Sport’s winter capabilities on- and off-pavement tackling 240 miles of desolate roads in the Botnsulur Mountain Region of southwest Iceland. Roads are narrow and built of crushed lava rock that is not routinely maintained. Road surfaces are often wind-polished sheets of glare ice. Some roads are marked “impassable”. Not for the Land Rover Discovery Sport. Land Rover outfitted our 5-passenger all-wheel drive (AWD) Discovery Sport with studded tires to combat the ice road surfaces.
Power is supplied by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that builds 240 horsepower coupled to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Land Rover’s Terrain Response System customizes the throttle mapping and torque distribution for General, Sand, Mud/Ruts and Grass/Gravel/Snow. The latter mode was the prudent choice for my Iceland winter drive. The system teams with Land Rover’s Hill Descent Control, stability and traction control for seamless rock solid handling.
Discovery’s AWD torque vectoring system is a built-in safety net that supplies grip to specific wheels to carry the vehicle along its intended path when slippage is detected in corners - a literal life saver on some of the ice roads traveled this trip. An 8.3-inch ground clearance makes deep snow travel a confident exercise, as does addressing sharp embankments when fording open water with Discovery’s 25-degree approach angle. Departure angle is 31-degrees.
TAKE A SEAT
Land Rover Discovery Sport is built to replace the outgoing Land Rover LR2, with underpinnings borrowed from the 2015 Land Rover Evoque. British-built Land Rover Discovery Sport is the first in the brand’s new styling theme and name structure shipped in SE, HSE and HSE-LUX models.
The standard five-passenger 2015 Land Rover Discover Sport comes with an available “5-plus-2” seat configuration that affords an optional third row for occasional passenger transport. Two youthful adults can utilize the seat for a cross-town jaunt, but it is best suited to youngsters for the long haul. Discovery’s front and second row riders enjoy ample head and legroom with an elevated stadium-style middle seat for an enhanced view through the cabin. The third row is elevated slightly higher than the middle seat. The second row also slides 6.3-inches to provide customized knee and leg space with split rear seatbacks that recline for added comfort and can fold down to create a maximum 60 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Over 28 cu-ft of space remains with the second row upright. An optional panoramic roof gives occupants an airy feel and spacious upward view.
All 2015 Discovery Sport models come with leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. A touch-screen interface, 10-speaker audio system, Bluetooth streaming, and USB/auxiliary ports are also included.
Navigation system, contrast-color roof, side steps, underbody shields, towing package and a black-trim package are popular options.
SAFETY MEASURES
Discovery Sport arrives with an emergency braking and forward-collision system that allows complete stops when obstacles are detected at speeds below 32 mph. The system also mitigates an impact at speeds below 50 mph.
Hill Descent control is standard. Lane departure warning system, perpendicular park assist and trailer-sway control are optional. Discovery’s standard full-time all-wheel drive system dedicates power to the front wheels until slippage is detected and then seamlessly engages the rear wheels for added grip on traction challenged road surfaces.
The 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport goes on sale this spring for $37,995 with freight.
Land Rover is not a typical sport utility vehicle. It is also not a brand punched out in cookie-cutter fashion built for the masses. Land Rover is special. So is the 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport.
2015 Subaru Outback
By Jim Jackson
Subaru Outback enters its fifth-generation to celebrate 20 years on- and off-pavement across America’s landscape. Considered by brand loyalists to be the world’s first sport utility wagon, the 2015 Subaru Outback brings rugged looks and greater capability to those who love their Subaru.
The 2015 Subaru Outback has a leaner appearance with a tapered roof line and body sides that have shed the chunky cladding found on the previous model. Outback’s hexagon grille is anchored by a revised lower valance that features adaptive light technology with oversize fog lamps to project added light when turning. Up top, standard roof rails with foldaway crossbars carry loads not contained within the 73.3 cubic feet of available cabin cargo space. Over 35 cu-ft remain with the 60/40-split second row upright. Access to the rails is made easier with wider interior door sills for sure-footed stability when securing overhead outside loads. The wider sills do not hamper the cabin’s exit or entry yet serve as an entrée to the five-passenger quarters accented by soft-touch materials and wood-tone trim.
Front and rear seat contours are suited for the long haul with back seat legroom enhanced by 2.7-inches over the outgoing model.
Outback’s standard rear view camera is the best in the business with excellent high resolution images from the 6.2- or available 7.0-inch center stack touch screen. Other vision enhancements come with Outback’s optional EyeSight system that utilize dual cameras housed behind the inside rear view mirror that automatically stop the car with no driver intervention to avoid an imminent crash at speeds up to 30-mph.
POWER CURVE
The 2015 Subaru Outback is powered by a standard 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine for 175 horsepower or 3.6L flat six-cylinder that builds 256 hp. Fuel economy for the 2.5L garners 25 miles per gallon in town and 33 mpg on the open road. The 3.6L yields 20/27 mpg respectively. Both engines are mated to Subaru’s continuously variable (automatic) transmission and standard symmetrical all-wheel drive.
For 2015, a new X-Mode all-wheel drive function offers Outback maximum grip by optimizing engine and transmission settings for increased active AWD engagement. Down hill descent control makes Outback’s off-pavement travel effortless. So does its 8.7-inches of ground clearance. Outback’s on-pavement prowess is dialed in with Subaru’s standard torque vectoring system that teams with the AWD to provide precision turn-in and corning control for superb steering wheel-to-road communication at speed.
The 2015 Subaru Outback is built at Subaru of Indiana Assembly in Lafayette, Indiana, for a starting price of $24,895 with all-wheel drive standard.
By Jim Jackson
Subaru Outback enters its fifth-generation to celebrate 20 years on- and off-pavement across America’s landscape. Considered by brand loyalists to be the world’s first sport utility wagon, the 2015 Subaru Outback brings rugged looks and greater capability to those who love their Subaru.
The 2015 Subaru Outback has a leaner appearance with a tapered roof line and body sides that have shed the chunky cladding found on the previous model. Outback’s hexagon grille is anchored by a revised lower valance that features adaptive light technology with oversize fog lamps to project added light when turning. Up top, standard roof rails with foldaway crossbars carry loads not contained within the 73.3 cubic feet of available cabin cargo space. Over 35 cu-ft remain with the 60/40-split second row upright. Access to the rails is made easier with wider interior door sills for sure-footed stability when securing overhead outside loads. The wider sills do not hamper the cabin’s exit or entry yet serve as an entrée to the five-passenger quarters accented by soft-touch materials and wood-tone trim.
Front and rear seat contours are suited for the long haul with back seat legroom enhanced by 2.7-inches over the outgoing model.
Outback’s standard rear view camera is the best in the business with excellent high resolution images from the 6.2- or available 7.0-inch center stack touch screen. Other vision enhancements come with Outback’s optional EyeSight system that utilize dual cameras housed behind the inside rear view mirror that automatically stop the car with no driver intervention to avoid an imminent crash at speeds up to 30-mph.
POWER CURVE
The 2015 Subaru Outback is powered by a standard 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine for 175 horsepower or 3.6L flat six-cylinder that builds 256 hp. Fuel economy for the 2.5L garners 25 miles per gallon in town and 33 mpg on the open road. The 3.6L yields 20/27 mpg respectively. Both engines are mated to Subaru’s continuously variable (automatic) transmission and standard symmetrical all-wheel drive.
For 2015, a new X-Mode all-wheel drive function offers Outback maximum grip by optimizing engine and transmission settings for increased active AWD engagement. Down hill descent control makes Outback’s off-pavement travel effortless. So does its 8.7-inches of ground clearance. Outback’s on-pavement prowess is dialed in with Subaru’s standard torque vectoring system that teams with the AWD to provide precision turn-in and corning control for superb steering wheel-to-road communication at speed.
The 2015 Subaru Outback is built at Subaru of Indiana Assembly in Lafayette, Indiana, for a starting price of $24,895 with all-wheel drive standard.
2015 Chevrolet Trax
By Jim Jackson
Last year’s New York International Auto Show in New York City opened a new door to the U.S. sport utility vehicle segment with the introduction of the 2015 Chevrolet Trax. Trax now joins Canada, China, Mexico and 60 other markets worldwide embracing the compact SUV sector.
The five occupant 2015 Chevrolet Trax comes in base LS, LT and LTZ trim levels to blend small car agility with SUV capability for up to 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space when the 60/40-split rear seats are folded flat.
Utility is extended further when the front passenger seat back is collapsed to transport items up to eight feet long - all contained within the cabin and with the rear hatch lid closed.
Up front, Trax carries a distinctive dual-cockpit instrument panel separated by a seven-inch high-resolution touch-screen color display for its standard MyLink voice-activated infotainment system. It also displays a real-time image for Trax standard rear view camera and available satellite radio and navigation system. Rear park assist is optional.
The 2015 Chevrolet Trax is the first in its class to offer Siri Eyes Free to accommodate iPhone iOS-6 and iOS-7 users with voice connectivity and hands free control of devices. Trax provides an available Wi-Fi hot spot that allows passengers to couple multiple personal devices such as smartphones, laptops and tables to high-speed wireless Internet when paired to Chevrolet’s OnStar 4G LTE connection. Convenient storage compartments are positioned throughout the passenger quarters including a hidden drawer under the front passenger seat and storage bins under the rear load floor.
TURBO PERFORMANCE
The front-drive 2015 Chevrolet Trax is powered by an Ecotec 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that builds 138 horsepower governed by an efficient six-speed automatic transmission to yield fuel economy of 26 miles per gallon in town and 34 mpg on the highway. Trax all-wheel drive (AWD) seamlessly shifts power to the rear wheels when needed for better traction and handling. Ride quality across imperfect blacktop is exceptional with no coarseness felt through the steering wheel courtesy of a compliant suspension that utilizes coil springs and a large stabilizer bar. Noise-damping urethane spring isolators improve ride and at the same time impedes sound into the cabin. Engine growl under throttle is equally dampened for a pleasant cabin environment that conveys normal conversation levels between front and back seat riders. A 100.6-inch wheelbase and 60.6-inch wide stance adds to the cruising comfort for a very favorable first impression.
Price for the 2015 Chevrolet Trax starts at $20,995.
By Jim Jackson
Last year’s New York International Auto Show in New York City opened a new door to the U.S. sport utility vehicle segment with the introduction of the 2015 Chevrolet Trax. Trax now joins Canada, China, Mexico and 60 other markets worldwide embracing the compact SUV sector.
The five occupant 2015 Chevrolet Trax comes in base LS, LT and LTZ trim levels to blend small car agility with SUV capability for up to 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space when the 60/40-split rear seats are folded flat.
Utility is extended further when the front passenger seat back is collapsed to transport items up to eight feet long - all contained within the cabin and with the rear hatch lid closed.
Up front, Trax carries a distinctive dual-cockpit instrument panel separated by a seven-inch high-resolution touch-screen color display for its standard MyLink voice-activated infotainment system. It also displays a real-time image for Trax standard rear view camera and available satellite radio and navigation system. Rear park assist is optional.
The 2015 Chevrolet Trax is the first in its class to offer Siri Eyes Free to accommodate iPhone iOS-6 and iOS-7 users with voice connectivity and hands free control of devices. Trax provides an available Wi-Fi hot spot that allows passengers to couple multiple personal devices such as smartphones, laptops and tables to high-speed wireless Internet when paired to Chevrolet’s OnStar 4G LTE connection. Convenient storage compartments are positioned throughout the passenger quarters including a hidden drawer under the front passenger seat and storage bins under the rear load floor.
TURBO PERFORMANCE
The front-drive 2015 Chevrolet Trax is powered by an Ecotec 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that builds 138 horsepower governed by an efficient six-speed automatic transmission to yield fuel economy of 26 miles per gallon in town and 34 mpg on the highway. Trax all-wheel drive (AWD) seamlessly shifts power to the rear wheels when needed for better traction and handling. Ride quality across imperfect blacktop is exceptional with no coarseness felt through the steering wheel courtesy of a compliant suspension that utilizes coil springs and a large stabilizer bar. Noise-damping urethane spring isolators improve ride and at the same time impedes sound into the cabin. Engine growl under throttle is equally dampened for a pleasant cabin environment that conveys normal conversation levels between front and back seat riders. A 100.6-inch wheelbase and 60.6-inch wide stance adds to the cruising comfort for a very favorable first impression.
Price for the 2015 Chevrolet Trax starts at $20,995.