Aston Martin, Genesis, Jaguar & Volkswagen Honored
In 16th North American Concept Vehicle Awards
PLYMOUTH, MI, July 30, 2017 / - The winners of the sixteenth annual North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards were announced this morning during a ceremony held at the Concours d'Elegance of America at St. John's.
The awards recognize those vehicles most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry. More than two dozen jurors participated in a selection process that involved a total of 24 vehicles, each introduced to North America during this season's auto shows in Los Angeles, Detroit, Chicago, Toronto, and New York.
The Production Preview Concept category is for those vehicle prototypes that are the basis for a model that has already been announced or planned for production. The finalists in this category included the Infiniti QX50, Jaguar I-Pace, Subaru Ascent, Volkswagen Passat GT.
Marking the brand's fourth time as a category finalist, and third time as category winner, Jaguar took the honor of 2017 Production Preview Concept of the Year with its I-Pace Concept.
The Concept Car category recognizes passenger-centric, long-range prototypes designed to measure market reaction to future features and models. The finalists in this category were the Aston Martin RB 001 Valkyrie, Cadillac Escala, Chrysler Portal, Nissan V-motion 2.0.
Earning its third time as category finalist, and marking the brand's first visit to the awards podium, Aston Martin earned the 2017 Concept Car of the Year award with its RB 001 Valkyrie Concept.
The Concept Truck category recognizes those concepts where cargo carrying is a significant design consideration. The finalists in this category were the Genesis GV80, Lincoln Navigator, Toyota FT-4X, Volkswagen I.D. Buzz.
In a rare occurrence, this year there was a tie for the Concept Truck of the Year, between the Genesis GV80, and the Volkswagen I.D. Buzz. These awards mark the Genesis brand's second time as a category finalist, and first time as a category winner; and for the Volkswagen brand, the ninth time as a category finalist, and fourth time as a category winner
From among the winners in the Concept Car, Concept Truck and Production Preview Concept categories, the Jaguar I-Pace posted the highest overall score to earn the top award as Most Significant Concept Vehicle of 2017. This award marks the Jaguar brand's second time taking the Most Significant Concept award.
In 16th North American Concept Vehicle Awards
PLYMOUTH, MI, July 30, 2017 / - The winners of the sixteenth annual North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards were announced this morning during a ceremony held at the Concours d'Elegance of America at St. John's.
The awards recognize those vehicles most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry. More than two dozen jurors participated in a selection process that involved a total of 24 vehicles, each introduced to North America during this season's auto shows in Los Angeles, Detroit, Chicago, Toronto, and New York.
The Production Preview Concept category is for those vehicle prototypes that are the basis for a model that has already been announced or planned for production. The finalists in this category included the Infiniti QX50, Jaguar I-Pace, Subaru Ascent, Volkswagen Passat GT.
Marking the brand's fourth time as a category finalist, and third time as category winner, Jaguar took the honor of 2017 Production Preview Concept of the Year with its I-Pace Concept.
The Concept Car category recognizes passenger-centric, long-range prototypes designed to measure market reaction to future features and models. The finalists in this category were the Aston Martin RB 001 Valkyrie, Cadillac Escala, Chrysler Portal, Nissan V-motion 2.0.
Earning its third time as category finalist, and marking the brand's first visit to the awards podium, Aston Martin earned the 2017 Concept Car of the Year award with its RB 001 Valkyrie Concept.
The Concept Truck category recognizes those concepts where cargo carrying is a significant design consideration. The finalists in this category were the Genesis GV80, Lincoln Navigator, Toyota FT-4X, Volkswagen I.D. Buzz.
In a rare occurrence, this year there was a tie for the Concept Truck of the Year, between the Genesis GV80, and the Volkswagen I.D. Buzz. These awards mark the Genesis brand's second time as a category finalist, and first time as a category winner; and for the Volkswagen brand, the ninth time as a category finalist, and fourth time as a category winner
From among the winners in the Concept Car, Concept Truck and Production Preview Concept categories, the Jaguar I-Pace posted the highest overall score to earn the top award as Most Significant Concept Vehicle of 2017. This award marks the Jaguar brand's second time taking the Most Significant Concept award.
Daily News Autos Honors 12 Automakers For Excellence In 16 Vehicle Categories
New York, NY—April 5, 2017--Daily News Autos today announced its second annual Daily News Autos Awards, honoring the top-rated 2017 model-year vehicles in America within 16 different categories. A panel of eight automotive journalists with decades of collective experience evaluating new vehicles selected this year’s award winners.
“In each category, these awards reflect the best choices for consumers based on practical considerations and our experience driving them,” said Daily News Autos Editor Christian Wardlaw. “People buy vehicles for different reasons, and we adjust our criteria accordingly depending upon the vehicle category and what car buyers may prioritize in each of them. The goal is to provide consumers with smart, practical, enjoyable, and emotionally appealing choices across a broad spectrum of vehicles while rewarding automakers for value, innovation, design, and dynamism.”
The 2017 Daily News Auto Awards winners are:
City Car: Honda Fit
City SUV: Subaru Crosstrek
Small Car: Volkswagen Golf
Small SUV: Honda CR-V
Family Car: Mazda Mazda 6
Family SUV: Honda Pilot
Plug-in Hybrid or Electric Vehicle: Chevrolet Bolt EV
Performance Car: Ford Focus RS
Truck: Ford F-150
Minivan: Chrysler Pacifica
Premium Car: Audi A4
Premium SUV: Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
Luxury Car: Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Luxury SUV: Jaguar F-Pace
Luxury Performance Car: Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
Luxury Plug-in Hybrid or Electric Vehicle: Volvo XC90 T8
In choosing its award winners, Daily News Autos staff members and contributing writers considered all 2017 model-year vehicles with a base price of less than $100,000. The vehicles needed to be on sale and available to consumers by February 1, 2017.
New York, NY—April 5, 2017--Daily News Autos today announced its second annual Daily News Autos Awards, honoring the top-rated 2017 model-year vehicles in America within 16 different categories. A panel of eight automotive journalists with decades of collective experience evaluating new vehicles selected this year’s award winners.
“In each category, these awards reflect the best choices for consumers based on practical considerations and our experience driving them,” said Daily News Autos Editor Christian Wardlaw. “People buy vehicles for different reasons, and we adjust our criteria accordingly depending upon the vehicle category and what car buyers may prioritize in each of them. The goal is to provide consumers with smart, practical, enjoyable, and emotionally appealing choices across a broad spectrum of vehicles while rewarding automakers for value, innovation, design, and dynamism.”
The 2017 Daily News Auto Awards winners are:
City Car: Honda Fit
City SUV: Subaru Crosstrek
Small Car: Volkswagen Golf
Small SUV: Honda CR-V
Family Car: Mazda Mazda 6
Family SUV: Honda Pilot
Plug-in Hybrid or Electric Vehicle: Chevrolet Bolt EV
Performance Car: Ford Focus RS
Truck: Ford F-150
Minivan: Chrysler Pacifica
Premium Car: Audi A4
Premium SUV: Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
Luxury Car: Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Luxury SUV: Jaguar F-Pace
Luxury Performance Car: Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
Luxury Plug-in Hybrid or Electric Vehicle: Volvo XC90 T8
In choosing its award winners, Daily News Autos staff members and contributing writers considered all 2017 model-year vehicles with a base price of less than $100,000. The vehicles needed to be on sale and available to consumers by February 1, 2017.
Detroit Auto Show Awards 2017
DETROIT-- The Chevrolet Bolt was named the 2017 North American Car of the Year at the Detroit auto show, while the Honda Ridgeline took the truck honors and the Chrysler Pacifica took home the newly minted top utility vehicle of the year.
The winners were chosen by a jury of 57 automotive journalists from a group of three finalists in each category. A vehicle must be redesigned or substantially changed in order to be eligible for the award.
The Chevrolet Bolt beat out the Genesis G90 and Volvo S90. This marks the first time Chevrolet won since 2014 when it swept with the Corvette Stingray and Silverado.
The Honda Ridgeline beat out the Ford F-series Super Duty and Nissan Titan. The first-generation Honda Ridgeline won the award in 2006.
Finally, the Chrysler Pacifica was named utility vehicle of the year, beating out the Jaguar F-Pace and Mazda CX-9. This was FCA’s first win since the Ram 1500 in 2013.
DETROIT-- The Chevrolet Bolt was named the 2017 North American Car of the Year at the Detroit auto show, while the Honda Ridgeline took the truck honors and the Chrysler Pacifica took home the newly minted top utility vehicle of the year.
The winners were chosen by a jury of 57 automotive journalists from a group of three finalists in each category. A vehicle must be redesigned or substantially changed in order to be eligible for the award.
The Chevrolet Bolt beat out the Genesis G90 and Volvo S90. This marks the first time Chevrolet won since 2014 when it swept with the Corvette Stingray and Silverado.
The Honda Ridgeline beat out the Ford F-series Super Duty and Nissan Titan. The first-generation Honda Ridgeline won the award in 2006.
Finally, the Chrysler Pacifica was named utility vehicle of the year, beating out the Jaguar F-Pace and Mazda CX-9. This was FCA’s first win since the Ram 1500 in 2013.
Motor Trend Magazine 2017 Awards
At the Los Angeles Auto Show, November 15, 2016, Motor Trend announced their Vehicle Award Winners.
-2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV, the Car of the Year winner.
-2017 Ford Super Duty, the Truck of the Year winner.
-2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC, the SUV of the Year winner.
At the Los Angeles Auto Show, November 15, 2016, Motor Trend announced their Vehicle Award Winners.
-2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV, the Car of the Year winner.
-2017 Ford Super Duty, the Truck of the Year winner.
-2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC, the SUV of the Year winner.
Ford GT Takes Top Honors In
14th North American Concept Vehicle Awards
By Tom Kelley and Bob Kroupa
The winners of the fourteenth annual North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards were announced during a ceremony held at the Concours d'Elegance of America at St. John's.
The awards recognize those vehicles most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry. More than two dozen jurors participated in a selection process that involved a total of 30 vehicles, each introduced to North America during this season's auto shows in Los Angeles, Detroit, Chicago, Toronto, and New York. Bob Kroupa, one of the founders of the Automotive Writers Group and their website, autoresearchblog.comwas one of the jurors.
The Production Preview Concept category is for those vehicle prototypes that are the basis for a model that has already been announced or planned for production. The finalists in this category included the Aston Martin Vulcan, the Buick Avenir, and the Ford GT.
Marking the brand's 20th time as a category finalist, and fifth time as a category winner, Ford takes the honor of 2015 Production Preview Concept of the Year with its racing-bred Ford GT. "Ford's winning European heritage started with the GT40, a stop in 2006-7 with a street version GT and onto the 2016 GT, storming into the US market with the WOW factor! Styling is second to none with performance and handling to match this strikingly designed beauty. Powered by an EcoBoost twin-turbo V-6, this GT pumps out 600+ HP," said Bob Kroupa, "and is a real show stopper!"
The Concept Car category recognizes passenger-centric, long-range prototypes designed to measure market reaction to future features and models. The finalists in this category were the Audi Prologue, the Mercedes Benz F 015, and the MINI Superleggera.
Earning its fifth spot as a category finalist, and marking the brand's first visit to the awards podium, Mercedes takes the 2015 Concept Car of the Year award with its F 015 Concept. "Mercedes Benz takes a giant leap into automotive design history with their F-015 Luxury in Motion concept.", he said continuing, "A self-driving 'four-seater' with rotating lounge chairs that allow for face-to-face seating with touch controls powered by an F-Cell plug-in hybrid, is definitely a futuristic vehicle."
The Concept Truck category recognizes those concepts where cargo carrying is a significant design consideration. The finalists in this category were the Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Kia Trail'Ster, and the Mitsubishi GC-PHEV.
Bringing the brand's fourth category finalist spot, and third honor as a category winner, the Hyundai Santa Cruz earns the 2015 Concept Truck of the Year award. Bob said, "Hyundai steps back in time when 'sport pickups were in vogue with their 2016 version of the Santa Cruz Concept. Accommodating five passengers, this concept vehicle was built for the Urban adventurers providing expression, efficiency and maneuverability. Feathres are expandable cargo bed, lockale tonneau cover, turbo diesel power and all-wheel drive. This truck is ready to be recognized as an award winner."
From amongst the winners in the Concept Car, Concept Truck and Production Preview Concept categories, the Ford GT posted the highest overall score to earn the top award as Most Significant Concept Vehicle of 2015. This award marks Ford's second time earning the top award in the competition; the brand's first top honor was for the Reflex Concept in 2006.
14th North American Concept Vehicle Awards
By Tom Kelley and Bob Kroupa
The winners of the fourteenth annual North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards were announced during a ceremony held at the Concours d'Elegance of America at St. John's.
The awards recognize those vehicles most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry. More than two dozen jurors participated in a selection process that involved a total of 30 vehicles, each introduced to North America during this season's auto shows in Los Angeles, Detroit, Chicago, Toronto, and New York. Bob Kroupa, one of the founders of the Automotive Writers Group and their website, autoresearchblog.comwas one of the jurors.
The Production Preview Concept category is for those vehicle prototypes that are the basis for a model that has already been announced or planned for production. The finalists in this category included the Aston Martin Vulcan, the Buick Avenir, and the Ford GT.
Marking the brand's 20th time as a category finalist, and fifth time as a category winner, Ford takes the honor of 2015 Production Preview Concept of the Year with its racing-bred Ford GT. "Ford's winning European heritage started with the GT40, a stop in 2006-7 with a street version GT and onto the 2016 GT, storming into the US market with the WOW factor! Styling is second to none with performance and handling to match this strikingly designed beauty. Powered by an EcoBoost twin-turbo V-6, this GT pumps out 600+ HP," said Bob Kroupa, "and is a real show stopper!"
The Concept Car category recognizes passenger-centric, long-range prototypes designed to measure market reaction to future features and models. The finalists in this category were the Audi Prologue, the Mercedes Benz F 015, and the MINI Superleggera.
Earning its fifth spot as a category finalist, and marking the brand's first visit to the awards podium, Mercedes takes the 2015 Concept Car of the Year award with its F 015 Concept. "Mercedes Benz takes a giant leap into automotive design history with their F-015 Luxury in Motion concept.", he said continuing, "A self-driving 'four-seater' with rotating lounge chairs that allow for face-to-face seating with touch controls powered by an F-Cell plug-in hybrid, is definitely a futuristic vehicle."
The Concept Truck category recognizes those concepts where cargo carrying is a significant design consideration. The finalists in this category were the Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Kia Trail'Ster, and the Mitsubishi GC-PHEV.
Bringing the brand's fourth category finalist spot, and third honor as a category winner, the Hyundai Santa Cruz earns the 2015 Concept Truck of the Year award. Bob said, "Hyundai steps back in time when 'sport pickups were in vogue with their 2016 version of the Santa Cruz Concept. Accommodating five passengers, this concept vehicle was built for the Urban adventurers providing expression, efficiency and maneuverability. Feathres are expandable cargo bed, lockale tonneau cover, turbo diesel power and all-wheel drive. This truck is ready to be recognized as an award winner."
From amongst the winners in the Concept Car, Concept Truck and Production Preview Concept categories, the Ford GT posted the highest overall score to earn the top award as Most Significant Concept Vehicle of 2015. This award marks Ford's second time earning the top award in the competition; the brand's first top honor was for the Reflex Concept in 2006.
Topless in Miami
by Ron Beasley and Bob Kroupa
The 2015 Porsche Boxster GTS earned top honors Thursday at the Topless in Miami 'Presented by Haartz' as members of the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA) selected it as the Convertible of the Year in the fifth annual convertible competition. It is the second time a car from the legendary German automaker’s stable has been selected for the honor. The Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet was the Convertible of the Year for 2013.
With a base price of $73,500, the Boxster received more first-place votes than any of the other class winners to win top honor. The Boxster also beat out the Chevy Corvette Stingray, Ford Mustang and Nissan 370Z in the Performance Convertible competition.
Other class winners were the Maserati GranTurismo Convertible in the Luxury Class that also featured the Mercedes-Benz SL400 Roadster and the BMW 650i. The Mercedes-Benz E400 Cabriolet was scored the winner in the Full-Size Class over the Infiniti Q60 IPL, BMW 228i, Lexus IS350 and Volkswagen EOS Final Edition.
The 2016 version of the Mazda MX-5 captured the Small Convertible Class for a second straight year over the Volkswagen Beetle R-Line, Fiat 500c Lounge Cabrio and Jeep Renegade. The 2015 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe was recognized as the winner of the Super Luxury/Extoic Trophy as the only entrant in the Class.
More than 60 members of the organization spent the day scoring 17 vehicles from 14 manufacturers on various aspects of the world’s top droptops at the event, which was headquartered once again at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne Resort.
“This was an exceptionally fine field this year,” said Paul Borden, SAMA vice president and chairman of the event. “It’s a difficult task to distinguish between such great vehicles with each a winner in its own right. But our members look forward to it each year.”
SAMA is an organization of automotive journalists, representatives of media organizations, corporate communications specialists, marketing and advertising representatives, and auto manufacturers related to South Florida’s dynamic automotive industry. Based in Miami, it was formed in March 2007 and has grown to include more than 140 members from across the United States and Latin and South America.
by Ron Beasley and Bob Kroupa
The 2015 Porsche Boxster GTS earned top honors Thursday at the Topless in Miami 'Presented by Haartz' as members of the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA) selected it as the Convertible of the Year in the fifth annual convertible competition. It is the second time a car from the legendary German automaker’s stable has been selected for the honor. The Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet was the Convertible of the Year for 2013.
With a base price of $73,500, the Boxster received more first-place votes than any of the other class winners to win top honor. The Boxster also beat out the Chevy Corvette Stingray, Ford Mustang and Nissan 370Z in the Performance Convertible competition.
Other class winners were the Maserati GranTurismo Convertible in the Luxury Class that also featured the Mercedes-Benz SL400 Roadster and the BMW 650i. The Mercedes-Benz E400 Cabriolet was scored the winner in the Full-Size Class over the Infiniti Q60 IPL, BMW 228i, Lexus IS350 and Volkswagen EOS Final Edition.
The 2016 version of the Mazda MX-5 captured the Small Convertible Class for a second straight year over the Volkswagen Beetle R-Line, Fiat 500c Lounge Cabrio and Jeep Renegade. The 2015 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe was recognized as the winner of the Super Luxury/Extoic Trophy as the only entrant in the Class.
More than 60 members of the organization spent the day scoring 17 vehicles from 14 manufacturers on various aspects of the world’s top droptops at the event, which was headquartered once again at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne Resort.
“This was an exceptionally fine field this year,” said Paul Borden, SAMA vice president and chairman of the event. “It’s a difficult task to distinguish between such great vehicles with each a winner in its own right. But our members look forward to it each year.”
SAMA is an organization of automotive journalists, representatives of media organizations, corporate communications specialists, marketing and advertising representatives, and auto manufacturers related to South Florida’s dynamic automotive industry. Based in Miami, it was formed in March 2007 and has grown to include more than 140 members from across the United States and Latin and South America.
2015 Chrysler 200 Wins MAMA Family Vehicle of the Year
“We are delighted that the new Chrysler 200 has been chosen ‘Family Vehicle of the Year’ by the Midwest Automotive Media Association, whose members evaluate dozens of new vehicles throughout the year,” commented Al Gardner, the president and CEO of the Chrysler Brand here in the States. “The 2015 Chrysler 200 was developed to be the benchmark for mid-size sedans with a timeless, elegant design; clever functionality; a standard nine-speed automatic transmission; a class-leading available all-wheel-drive system; 60 safety and security features and a host of new technology drivers and passengers will value. It is a sedan that drivers will be proud to own, at a value they will appreciate.”
MAMA is compromised of more than 200 automotive journalists and professionals in the region, including Jim Jackson and Bob Kroupa. All these journalists and professionals determined the winner of the prestigious award. To even qualify for MAMA Family Vehicle of the Year, a contender had to have four doors, had to have an MSRP lower than $50,000, and had to be new or drastically updated since the 2014 Spring Rally. In addition, potential candidates had to make an appearance at one of MAMA’s two annual rallies.
Of those 200+ journalists, 99 voted for the Chrysler 200. It received 79 points in total.
“We know how important it is, and how difficult it can be, to pick the right family car,” said Patrick Olsen, MAMA President. “This award helps give consumers a chance to see the car that nearly a hundred automotive journalists –many with families themselves—selected as the best choice for families in 2015.”
The 2015 Chrysler 200 truly is a car for families. It’s got the most available safety features in its segment, as well as a slew of connected technologies.
“We are delighted that the new Chrysler 200 has been chosen ‘Family Vehicle of the Year’ by the Midwest Automotive Media Association, whose members evaluate dozens of new vehicles throughout the year,” commented Al Gardner, the president and CEO of the Chrysler Brand here in the States. “The 2015 Chrysler 200 was developed to be the benchmark for mid-size sedans with a timeless, elegant design; clever functionality; a standard nine-speed automatic transmission; a class-leading available all-wheel-drive system; 60 safety and security features and a host of new technology drivers and passengers will value. It is a sedan that drivers will be proud to own, at a value they will appreciate.”
MAMA is compromised of more than 200 automotive journalists and professionals in the region, including Jim Jackson and Bob Kroupa. All these journalists and professionals determined the winner of the prestigious award. To even qualify for MAMA Family Vehicle of the Year, a contender had to have four doors, had to have an MSRP lower than $50,000, and had to be new or drastically updated since the 2014 Spring Rally. In addition, potential candidates had to make an appearance at one of MAMA’s two annual rallies.
Of those 200+ journalists, 99 voted for the Chrysler 200. It received 79 points in total.
“We know how important it is, and how difficult it can be, to pick the right family car,” said Patrick Olsen, MAMA President. “This award helps give consumers a chance to see the car that nearly a hundred automotive journalists –many with families themselves—selected as the best choice for families in 2015.”
The 2015 Chrysler 200 truly is a car for families. It’s got the most available safety features in its segment, as well as a slew of connected technologies.
2015 Range Rover "Luxury Car of the Year."
(MAHWAH, NJ) - January 13, 2015 - Cars.com, the premier online resource for buying and selling new and used cars, has named the 2015 Range Rover their "Luxury Car Of The Year" as part of its annual "Best of 2015" awards. Presented during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, these honors recognize automakers that are segment leaders and deemed the best in their class.
"It is an honor to be awarded 'Luxury Car of the Year' for the 2015 Range Rover by the experts at Cars.com," said Kim McCullough, Vice President of Marketing, Jaguar Land Rover North America. "The fourth generation Range Rover has become a luxury icon in its sector, known for combining impeccable British craftsmanship with the brand's renowned all-terrain capability and we couldn't be more excited to receive this accolade for our halo vehicle."
(MAHWAH, NJ) - January 13, 2015 - Cars.com, the premier online resource for buying and selling new and used cars, has named the 2015 Range Rover their "Luxury Car Of The Year" as part of its annual "Best of 2015" awards. Presented during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, these honors recognize automakers that are segment leaders and deemed the best in their class.
"It is an honor to be awarded 'Luxury Car of the Year' for the 2015 Range Rover by the experts at Cars.com," said Kim McCullough, Vice President of Marketing, Jaguar Land Rover North America. "The fourth generation Range Rover has become a luxury icon in its sector, known for combining impeccable British craftsmanship with the brand's renowned all-terrain capability and we couldn't be more excited to receive this accolade for our halo vehicle."
- FORD GT WINS EYESON DESIGN PRIZE FOR BEST PRODUCTION VEHICLE AT 2015 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
- All-new Ford GT - propelled by most powerful EcoBoost® production engine ever making 600-plus horsepower - wins coveted EyesOn Design Award for best production vehicle
- GT supercar represents Ford's commitment to innovation through performance; advanced, lightweight composites will serve company's entire future product lineup
- EyesOn Design winners selected by current and former design chiefs at major automakers and top design schools
The ultra-high-performance supercar was unveiled Monday at the 2015 North American International Auto Show.
EyesOn Design, the official design awards for NAIAS, honors the best production and concept vehicles making global debuts in Detroit. Judges include current and former design leaders from global automakers and transportation departments at top art schools.
Corvette Engine Repeats Win as WardsAuto 10 Best 6.2L LT1 among industry’s elite powerplants
DETROIT – The high performance, technology-packed LT1 Small Block 6.2L V8 that powers the 2015 Corvette Stingray is a Ward’s 10 Best Engine for 2015. The engine also was recognized with this award in 2014.
WardsAuto reviewed 37 engines and propulsion systems from 12 manufacturers in this year’s competition, which looked at power, fuel efficiency, new technology and refinement and compared the attributes with data for similar engines.
“This recognition is another step in earning customers for life,” said Dan Nicholson, vice president, GM Global Powertrain. Having the WardsAuto experts choose the LT1 as one of the best in the industry two years in a row is proof of what this Powertrain team can deliver – uncompromised performance, durability and efficiency that helps make the Stingray one of the best sports cars in the world today.”
The LT1 Small Block technologies contribute to making the new Corvette the quickest, most powerful and most fuel-efficient standard Corvette ever. The engine delivers an SAE-certified 460 horsepower, helping propel the car from 0-60 in 3.8 seconds and a quarter mile in 12 seconds while offering EPA-estimated 29 mpg highway with an 8-speed automatic or 7-speed manual transmission.
“The 6.2L LT1 V-8 is the heart and soul of the seventh-generation Chevrolet Corvette, and it proudly upholds the 60-year legacy of small-block engines from General Motors,” said Tom Murphy, executive editor of WardsAuto World digital magazine. “This one's been re-engineered from head to torque converter, and the LT1 is the crown jewel of this massive engine family.”
“In the Corvette, this 460-hp V-8 barks with authority, delivering an exhaust note reminiscent of Detroit’s finest muscle cars. And it's efficient, too. WardsAuto editors flogging the 'Vette for more than 300 miles managed better than 20 mpg with the new 8-speed automatic."
The LT1, part of the Gen 5 family of Small Block engines, combines several advanced technologies – direct injection, Active Fuel Management, or cylinder deactivation, and continuously variable valve timing – to support an advanced combustion system.
Direct injection is a primary contributor to greater combustion efficiency by ensuring a more complete burn of the fuel in the air-fuel mixture. This is achieved by precisely controlling the mixture motion and fuel injection spray pattern. Direct injection also keeps the combustion chamber cooler, which allows for a higher compression ratio.
Increased power and efficiency result from more than 10 million hours of computational analysis including computational fluid dynamics, to make the most of the combustion system, the direct injection fuel system, active fuel management and variable valve timing systems that support it. The combustion system itself benefited from 6 million hours of dedicated CPU analysis time.
Other variants of the Gen 5 Small Block include the 4.3L V6, 5.3L and 6.2L V8 truck engines offered in the Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, the GMC Sierra pickups, Yukon XL and Cadillac Escalade SUVs. The LT1 is manufactured in Tonawanda, N.Y.
DETROIT – The high performance, technology-packed LT1 Small Block 6.2L V8 that powers the 2015 Corvette Stingray is a Ward’s 10 Best Engine for 2015. The engine also was recognized with this award in 2014.
WardsAuto reviewed 37 engines and propulsion systems from 12 manufacturers in this year’s competition, which looked at power, fuel efficiency, new technology and refinement and compared the attributes with data for similar engines.
“This recognition is another step in earning customers for life,” said Dan Nicholson, vice president, GM Global Powertrain. Having the WardsAuto experts choose the LT1 as one of the best in the industry two years in a row is proof of what this Powertrain team can deliver – uncompromised performance, durability and efficiency that helps make the Stingray one of the best sports cars in the world today.”
The LT1 Small Block technologies contribute to making the new Corvette the quickest, most powerful and most fuel-efficient standard Corvette ever. The engine delivers an SAE-certified 460 horsepower, helping propel the car from 0-60 in 3.8 seconds and a quarter mile in 12 seconds while offering EPA-estimated 29 mpg highway with an 8-speed automatic or 7-speed manual transmission.
“The 6.2L LT1 V-8 is the heart and soul of the seventh-generation Chevrolet Corvette, and it proudly upholds the 60-year legacy of small-block engines from General Motors,” said Tom Murphy, executive editor of WardsAuto World digital magazine. “This one's been re-engineered from head to torque converter, and the LT1 is the crown jewel of this massive engine family.”
“In the Corvette, this 460-hp V-8 barks with authority, delivering an exhaust note reminiscent of Detroit’s finest muscle cars. And it's efficient, too. WardsAuto editors flogging the 'Vette for more than 300 miles managed better than 20 mpg with the new 8-speed automatic."
The LT1, part of the Gen 5 family of Small Block engines, combines several advanced technologies – direct injection, Active Fuel Management, or cylinder deactivation, and continuously variable valve timing – to support an advanced combustion system.
Direct injection is a primary contributor to greater combustion efficiency by ensuring a more complete burn of the fuel in the air-fuel mixture. This is achieved by precisely controlling the mixture motion and fuel injection spray pattern. Direct injection also keeps the combustion chamber cooler, which allows for a higher compression ratio.
Increased power and efficiency result from more than 10 million hours of computational analysis including computational fluid dynamics, to make the most of the combustion system, the direct injection fuel system, active fuel management and variable valve timing systems that support it. The combustion system itself benefited from 6 million hours of dedicated CPU analysis time.
Other variants of the Gen 5 Small Block include the 4.3L V6, 5.3L and 6.2L V8 truck engines offered in the Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, the GMC Sierra pickups, Yukon XL and Cadillac Escalade SUVs. The LT1 is manufactured in Tonawanda, N.Y.
KIA K900 AND SOUL RECEIVE PRESTIGIOUS 2015 CONSUMER GUIDE AUTOMOTIVE BEST BUY AWARDS
“2014 marks Kia’s 20th year in the U.S. market, and in that time, the Kia brand has continued to challenge convention and redefine the notion of what value really is,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of sales and marketing, Kia Motors America (KMA). “To be recognized by Consumers Guide Automotive with two Best Buy Awards for 2015 is an indication that our products continue to exceed expectations with a winning blend of world-class design, outstanding quality, state-of-the-art technology and premium amenities, all at a tremendous value to the customer.”
Each year Consumer Guide Automotive editors select the best vehicles from 20 segments to receive Best Buy Awards with vehicle price and value being major factors. By prioritizing these key consideration points in the car-buying process, the Consumer Guide Automotive Best Buy Awards serve a practical purpose to everyday car shoppers.
About the 2015 K900
The 2015 K900 challenges the rear-drive luxury sedan segment with an extensive list of standard equipment, world-class accommodations, premium driving dynamics and stunning design that redefines consumer perception and expectations of the Kia brand. Offered with a 420-hp V8 engine, the K900’s list of standard equipment and upscale amenities features first-class accommodations and advanced technology. The range-topping V8 equipped with the VIP Package adds additional luxury amenities including reclining outboard rear seats. The all-new K900 V8 Luxury and V8 VIP are on sale now.
About the 2015 Soul
The 2015 Soul displays its own unique character through a blend of funky personality, fun-to-drive characteristics and premium interior amenities intended to set it apart from the pack. The signature Soul design is instantly recognizable yet thoroughly fresh. Honoring Soul owners’ fierce individualism, three unique trim levels remain available: Base, Plus and Exclaim. Motivation for the Base Soul is delivered by a gasoline direct injection (GDI) 130-horsepower (at 6,300 rpm) 1.6-liter all-aluminum DOHC four-cylinder engine. The GAMMA engine produces 118 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,850 rpm. The Plus and Exclaim models are offered with the more powerful 2.0-liter NU power plant with GDI technology. Power is rated at 164 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 151 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The 1.6-liter engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic. The Plus and Exclaim models are available exclusively with the six-speed automatic gearbox.
- The K900 luxury sedan earns best-in-class status in the Premium Large Car category
- The fun and funky Soul urban passenger vehicle receives the top honors in the Subcompact Car category
“2014 marks Kia’s 20th year in the U.S. market, and in that time, the Kia brand has continued to challenge convention and redefine the notion of what value really is,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of sales and marketing, Kia Motors America (KMA). “To be recognized by Consumers Guide Automotive with two Best Buy Awards for 2015 is an indication that our products continue to exceed expectations with a winning blend of world-class design, outstanding quality, state-of-the-art technology and premium amenities, all at a tremendous value to the customer.”
Each year Consumer Guide Automotive editors select the best vehicles from 20 segments to receive Best Buy Awards with vehicle price and value being major factors. By prioritizing these key consideration points in the car-buying process, the Consumer Guide Automotive Best Buy Awards serve a practical purpose to everyday car shoppers.
About the 2015 K900
The 2015 K900 challenges the rear-drive luxury sedan segment with an extensive list of standard equipment, world-class accommodations, premium driving dynamics and stunning design that redefines consumer perception and expectations of the Kia brand. Offered with a 420-hp V8 engine, the K900’s list of standard equipment and upscale amenities features first-class accommodations and advanced technology. The range-topping V8 equipped with the VIP Package adds additional luxury amenities including reclining outboard rear seats. The all-new K900 V8 Luxury and V8 VIP are on sale now.
About the 2015 Soul
The 2015 Soul displays its own unique character through a blend of funky personality, fun-to-drive characteristics and premium interior amenities intended to set it apart from the pack. The signature Soul design is instantly recognizable yet thoroughly fresh. Honoring Soul owners’ fierce individualism, three unique trim levels remain available: Base, Plus and Exclaim. Motivation for the Base Soul is delivered by a gasoline direct injection (GDI) 130-horsepower (at 6,300 rpm) 1.6-liter all-aluminum DOHC four-cylinder engine. The GAMMA engine produces 118 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,850 rpm. The Plus and Exclaim models are offered with the more powerful 2.0-liter NU power plant with GDI technology. Power is rated at 164 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 151 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The 1.6-liter engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic. The Plus and Exclaim models are available exclusively with the six-speed automatic gearbox.