Maryland

Dodge Durango SRT: High-End Performance for the Family

October 25, 2017 by admin 10 Comments

A 2017 WAPA Rally first look at Dodge’s hot SUV.

2018 Dodge Durango SRT — Check out the hood air intake and extractor vents on the SRT’s hood.

High-end performance SUVs are nothing new. In the early 1990s, the GMC Typhoon lifted the fun quotient considerably by delivering a turbocharged 4.3-liter V6 engine, Garrett intercooler, BorgWarner transfer case, and a self-leveling rear suspension. It rivaled the performance of top sports car models of that era, including the Corvette. After the briefest of production runs, the Tycoon and the similar Chevrolet Blazer SS were canceled (see The Chevy Blazer is Back, But in Name Only?).

Fast forward a decade and Porsche gave us the Cayenne, the first SUV from this benchmark-setting luxury sports car brand. If you hated the thought of Porsche adding an SUV, you might have been won over by this SUV’s prowess as it has proven to be almost as fast any Porsche sports car, while setting the bar for all performance SUVs.

2018 Dodge Durango SRT

Dodge has its own answer to the Cayenne and that’s the 2018 Durango SRT. It is the latest take on Dodge’s midsize, three-row SUV and its most powerful model yet. We probably shouldn’t be all that surprised that there is a Durango SRT. After all, the platform-sharing Jeep Grand Cherokee traces its SRT history to 2006, with the current version rolling out six years later.

What’s so significant about the Durango SRT is that it retains all of its top features, including room for six (captain’s chairs in the middle row instead of a bench seat), utility and towing capabilities — a whopping 8,700 pounds.

What’s so special is what’s under the hood — a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine generating 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The good news is that Dodge estimates the Durango SRT can go from 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. The bad news is that you’ll only get 13 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.

Performance Does Not Come Cheap

Cost wise, you’ll need to prepare yourself to pay a $1,000 gas guzzler tax on top of the required premium grade gasoline for each fill up. Moreover, this all-wheel drive model retails for $64,090 (including destination charge) and that’s more than double the cost of the base model.

Cost aside, the Durango SRT is a hoot to drive. My driving partner (Arsis Fruritch) and I secured one at the 2017 WAPA Rally held on Kent Island, Maryland, earlier this month. It was one of the last vehicles we drove for the day, so we managed to get in a little extra time with it. Suffice to say, that the brief spin wasn’t nearly enough. Furthermore, with local police eager to hand out tickets, we had to take extra care not to draw excess attention to what we were doing.

That said, we cast our concerns to the wind, finding a few remote spots on the island to open her up. She complied, by delivering raging potent power accompanied by a raucous exhaust note, immediately bringing me back to the day when a Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT came through my press fleet rotation. Like the Jeep, this one delivers a high-performance suspension with adaptive damping — the better to hang the corners with.

The Beast Within and Without

The funny thing about the Durango SRT, is that although it looks like a beast (and it is) with its beefy fender flares, hood intake and extractors, and other embellishments, it is still very much a functioning family vehicle. In the recent past, Dodge marketed its Grand Caravan as a “man van” and no one was fooled. On the other hand, in the Durango SRT, you have a vehicle that lives up to all the hype, one that’s certain to attract a niche following.

Before we brought the Durango SRT back, we took note of some of its other features. The requisite red Brembo brake calipers were present. You also have your choice of seven drive modes at the ready — auto, sport, track, snow, tow, valet, and eco. Dodge didn’t skimp on interior materials either with leather seats and tri-zone climate control among the chief features.

All in all, the Durango SRT may offer the best blend of passenger comfort, utility, towing and performance of any SUV out there, even outdistancing the Porsche Cayenne in at least two of the four departments. All this coming from SRT, FCA’s Street & Racing Technology division that’s also brought us Hellcat and Demon.

First Look: 2018 Mercedes-Benz C 350e PHEV

October 21, 2017 by admin 2 Comments

A Kent Island glimpse at a compact luxury PHEV sedan.

The Mercedes-Benz brand has remained elusive among my press fleet vehicles, a situation I plan to amend by next year. You simply can’t properly evaluate the market without a steady dose of M-B models to compare with Audi, BMW, and other luxury products.

At the recent 2017 WAPA Rally on Kent Island, Maryland, I had an opportunity to drive the 2018 Mercedes-Benz C 350e, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. Certainly, 45 minutes isn’t enough to give a full evaluation, but it does provide a “first look” overview, which I’m sharing here.

Now in its third year, the C 350e offers a blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency worth exploring. This compact luxury sedan comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 60-kilowatt electric motor to deliver 275 combined horsepower. Under hard acceleration, this rear-wheel drive only PHEV goes from 0-60 mph in just 5.8 seconds. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, under optimum conditions the C 350e delivers a combined 51 mpg, in part due to its approximate 20-mile electric-only range.

Quite frankly, these are amazing numbers and likely the reason why we’ll see far more PHEV variants in the coming years.The 2018 C 350e costs $47,900 plus $995 for destination.

2018 Mercedes-Benz C 350e

Exterior Highlights

There’s little difference between the standard C-Class and the PHEV and that’s a good thing. Already a handsome sedan with a long hood and short rear deck, Mercedes-Benz wisely chose to keep this hybrid close to the standard bearer’s looks.

Standard equipment includes 18-inch twin 5-spoke wheels and your choice of 11 colors. Or perhaps what I should say is you have a choice of black and polar white paint schemes with the nine other choices costing an additional $720, $1,080 or $1,515. Wheel and tire upgrades are available as well, costing $1,340 to $3,260 for the seven package options.

Other single options include the following AMG upgrades: rear apron trim ($810), front splitter ($780), rear apron flics ($310), side sill panels ($1,100), and a rear spoiler ($520). It may seem odd to include AMG elements on a PHEV, but that’s something Mercedes-Benz offers.

You can also opt for an Advanced Lighting Package ($800), bringing in active LED headlamps with adaptive high beam assist, a panoramic roof ($1,000), and various accessories.

Mercedes-Benz C 350e
2018 Mercedes-Benz C 350e

Interior Highlights

Mercedes-Benz interiors are exquisite and boast an assortment of materials. Standard features include power front seats with driver memory, dual-zone climate control, a high-resolution dashboard, and a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat.

This five-passenger sedan offers your choice of three cloth or three leather coverings. Further, you can also upgrade to nappa leather, offering two color choices for $3,800 each. Notably, a leather seating package ($1,950) splits that difference and adds driver seat memory for the passenger seat. Four wood trim options are also available.

Individual interior upgrades include heated seats ($580), heated and ventilated front seats ($1,030), a wood/leather steering wheel ($500), and a heated steering wheel ($250). Certainly, there are no lack of upgrade opportunities with this and other Mercedes-Benz models.

Mercedes-Benz C 350e

Audio and Navigation

All C 350e models come with a central controller, Bluetooth audio streaming, a pair of USB audio ports, HD Radio, and a Front-Bass audio system.

Among the entertainment and convenience packages available include a Premium Package with keyless entry and satellite radio ($700), a Navigation and Multimedia Package ($2,200) and a Comfort Package ($750) — adding a power rear and side window sunshades.

Individual upgrades include a Burmester Surround Sound System ($850), Head-up Display ($950), and GARMIN map pilot ($625).

Safety and Related Technologies

Standard safety features include nine airbags, a pre-collision system, adaptive braking technology, and a rearview camera. Moreover, you’ll even find a crosswind assist system to help maintain control when a truck passes by or if you are buffeted by high winds.

Package options include a Parking Assist Package with active parking assist and a surround view system ($1,090) and a $2,250 driver assist package, adding lane keep assist, blind spot assist, pedestrian detection and several other safety features. Further, you can also opt for blind spot assist ($550) and active parking assist ($970) separately.

Mercedes-Benz C 350e

Behind the Wheel: Mercedes-Benz C 350e

I’m not a fan of the stalk-mounted transmission shifter on the 350e. I understand why it’s there — to free up space on the center console. Once I got used to its location, I was able to enjoy the drive.

In fact, Mercedes-Benz utilizes the same engine in the C 300, which produces 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque on its own. However, that model gets the 9-speed transmission and offers available all-wheel drive.

Step on the accelerator and the C 350e quietly moves away from a dead stop — battery power gets this sedan going. Press hard on the gas pedal and the engine roars to life, moving this sedan with authority. The steering is crisp, the ride comfortable and the brakes firm with only a minimal amount of “squishiness” detected, thanks to the regenerative braking system.

Parting Thoughts

First looks are just that — long enough to gauge highlights about a vehicle, but not too short to assess as I do for a weekly drive. Still, I like this sedan and see it as one more example of automakers flexing their electrification muscles. The $7,650 price premium over the base model is hard to swallow, but an available $4,043 tax credit closes the gap by more than half.

Mercedes-Benz C 350e

Kia Optima Hybrid: Extended Drive Time

October 19, 2017 by admin 10 Comments

Many miles and smiles with Kia’s Optima Hybrid sedan.

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid — The Kia Optima Hybrid is available in Premium and EX trims.

Hybrid sales peaked in 2013 and have fallen steadily since. Low fuel prices are a significant contributor, falling below $2 per gallon at times with those low prices covering large swathes of America. Another reason is the advent of modern electric cars — some shoppers are opting for pure electric vehicles over hybrids.

Though demand has fallen, manufacturers continue to offer hybrids, which help them achieve EPA fleet averages. Although prices are somewhat higher than their standard gasoline counterparts, incentives typically are strong. Shop carefully and you may find a hybrid costing just hundreds more, while returning excellent fuel economy.

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

The 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid is one model among many in the segment. With a base price of $25,995, plus destination, the Optima Hybrid costs $3,495 more than the base Optima S. A second trim, EX, costs $4,995 more than the base hybrid model.

For most weeks I drive a manufacturer’s vehicle for six or seven days and for approximately 250 miles. For the Optima Hybrid, we covered more than 800 miles and had the sedan for two weeks. That’s because Kia allowed me to take the hybrid to the 2017 WAPA Rally on Kent Island, Maryland, where my driver partner (Arsis Fruritch) and I drove 10 of the 55 vehicles available. Thank you, Kia!

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

As for the model at hand, the following are the key points about this hybrid:

Point No. 1 — The styling differences are negligible. Put gas and hybrid variants of the same model together and the differences are usually clear. For some mysterious reason, certain automakers think customers want to scream “this is a hybrid,” when blending in is the best approach from a styling point in my opinion.

Happily, Kia doesn’t make the Optima and Optima Hybrid look much different, other than slight grille differences and badging. What may look avant-garde initially can come across detestable a few years later. I’m not mentioning names, just pointing out the obvious.

Point No. 2 — You’ll find ample room for five. Nearly across the board, today’s midsize models are roomy, offering almost as much space as large sedans. The upsizing we have seen over the past five to 10 years takes an opposite approach from the downsizing of the late 1970s to mid-1980s.

The winner here is the customer who may want no compromise room for five. Midsize sedans are today’s family vehicle or at least the type of car families want when an SUV or a minivan is not an option.

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

Point No. 3 — The base model is relatively well equipped. Compare the base hybrid to the standard gasoline version and you’ll find equipment differences, what demonstrates the hybrid is better equipped, effectively narrowing the $3,495 price difference between the two.

Furthermore, those differences include the following equipment included with the hybrid, but not standard with the base gas model. With this in mind, I did the research for you. Here goes: heated outside mirrors with LED turn signal indicators, automatic trunk opener, a 7-inch display screen (it measures 5 inches in the gas model), Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, spill-resistant cloth seats, and an illuminated glove box.

That’s quite a number of features you won’t find in the standard model unless you opt for the EX trim, costing just $555 less than the Optima Hybrid Premium. If you want driver-assist features, consider the one package available — the Hybrid Convenience Package ($1,795) adding rear parking assist, blind-spot detection, rear cross traffic alert along with a power driver’s seat with lumbar support, power-folding side mirrors, a driver’s seat integrated memory system, and sound-absorbing front windows.

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

Point No. 4 — The EX edition offers many premium features. As well equipped as the Premium edition is, the EX lifts the equipment offerings to the next level. Indeed, for about five grand you expect a long list of additional standard amenities and the EX delivers.

LED positioning lights, power-folding side mirrors, and 17-inch alloy wheels get things started. You’ll also find an 8-inch touchscreen display, satellite radio, HD Radio, navigation, rear console USB ports and a 12-volt outlet, electronic parking brake, mood lighting, front seatback pockets, leather seats, a 12-way power seat with lumbar support, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a split fold-down rear seat.

For another $5,000 you might consider the Hybrid EX Technology Package ($5,000), what adds such features as a panoramic sunroof with a power sunshade, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. You also get Kia’s full suite of driver-assist features as rear parking assist, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, advanced smart cruise control, and autonomous emergency braking. Add it all up and your price tops $37,000 if you also opt for one of two exterior color choices adding $395 to your cost.

Point No. 5 — Kia’s technology is not difficult to comprehend….or embrace. Kudos to Kia for making a telematics system that is fairly easy to use. The UVO system is a Microsoft product, but far better than what some competitors offered early on (Ford SYNC, for example).

The navigation system worked fine, but I prefer using my iPhone, as Apple CarPlay is my preferred method for obtaining directions. Likewise, Android Auto is also included, giving the majority of smartphone users compatibility they crave.

As for the Harman/Kardon QuantumLogic Premium Surround Sound with ClarifFi (standard in the EX), this 630-watt, 10-speaker unit delivers excellent sound. I like what automakers have done in the sound department over the past few years, by offering top-shelf audio systems on top-trim models.

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

Point No. 6 — Safety is hardly an afterthought. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2017 Optima with its highest crash-testing rating — Top Safety Pick+. This score applies to the hybrid and underscores the attention to safety taken by Kia.

Both trims come with a full suite of airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag. Check out point no. 4 for the various driver-assist features available as they will match what equipment today’s models offer.

Point No. 7 — You have the upper hand when negotiating. Rarely do I discuss incentives when reviewing a vehicle. The reason? They change so often. It is always my hope that my reviews will supply value years later too…why add new car incentives when they no longer apply?

In fact, there are incentives on new cars — on hybrids, they’re typically the best you’ll find. When buying a new hybrid, you should have more leverage than the standard version, so keep this in mind. Either way, expect deals that exceed the average new car, using those incentives to your advantage.

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

Point No. 8 — There are two kinds of performance attributes to consider. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine powering the Optima Hybrid is about as mild as they come with just 154 horsepower under its belt. Thus, this model makes an EPA-estimated 39 mpg in the city and 46 mpg on the highway. Notably, we averaged about 40 mpg and that’s a fantastic number for two people and a trunk full of gear.

The engine joins with an electric motor to send power to the front wheels. At times, the motor delivers its own power alone (typically while crawling), but also joins with the engine to combine for 192 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. Consequently, this means when you need to “floor it” the hybrid responds in kind by delivering copious amounts of power. Furthermore, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride and light-to-the-touch steering in a sedan offering a premium feel. Yes, the brakes are squishy when first applied, but I soon became comfortable with the sensation — what creates kinetic energy that’s sent to the lithium polymer battery pack for distribution later.

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

Parting Thoughts

Optima Hybrid prices can climb quickly if you opt for the EX with the technology package. Personally, I like the base model with the available Hybrid Convenience Package, what delivers a well-equipped hybrid for $29,000. Work hard on extracting your full incentives and your out-the-door price should come in around $25,000. That’s excellent for any midsize sedan, yet especially so for one topping 40 mpg.

As for owning a hybrid in the first place, if you plan to keep it for the long haul, you stand a much better chance of getting your money’s worth. You also have Kia’s excellent warranty plan backing your Optima Hybrid, providing yet another compelling reason to go green.

Finally, as for the Optima Hybrid’s competitive set, you’ll find the Toyota Camry Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, and the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid offered.

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

Premium Trim: $26,890 (including $895 destination fee)
EX Trim: $31,885 (including destination)
Seats five
Engine: 2.0-liter I4 gas, Atkinson cycle
154 horsepower @ 5,000 RPM
140 foot-pounds of torque @ 5,000 RPM
Electric motor: 50 hp; 151.2 foot-pounds of torque
192 total system horsepower
271 total system torque
6-speed automatic transmission/li>
Wheelbase: 110.43 inches
Length: 191.10 inches
Width: 73.20 inches
Height: 57.50 inches
Passenger volume: NR
Storage volume: 13.42 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 39/46 mpg city/highway
Regular gasoline
Fuel tank: 15.85 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,486 to 3,538 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick+
Limited vehicle warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles
Electric battery warranty: 12 years/100,000 miles
Vehicle assembly: Hwaseong, South Korea

See Also — Swanky SUV: 2016 Kia Sorento EX AWD-

Highlights of the 2017 WAPA Rally!

October 18, 2017 by admin 2 Comments

Drive time in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay for the WAPA Rally.

Once each year, members of the Washington Automotive Press Association gather at a special location in the DC area to test drive new vehicles. The annual WAPA Rally is an important event, which also allows members to network with each other and meet and greet manufacturer representatives.

Like last year, this year’s event was held at the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club on Kent Island in Maryland, about an hour east of the center of the city. For only the second time I managed to attend this event, this time taking with me my friend and contributing photographer, Arsis Fruritch. Arsis and I split behind-the-wheel and behind-the-camera duties, affording both of us the chance to enjoy the event.

This year, 55 models were on hand, including such hard-to-get vehicles as the Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge and Acura’s NSX hybrid sports car. Alas, those two vehicles along with the Lexus LS 500 and Honda Civic R Type escaped us, as long lines effectively shut us out.

We did manage to get some wheel time with several vehicles for the first time. Some had yet to pass through my fleet rotation, while a few simply aren’t offered by distributors at all. In any case, we enjoyed what we drove with the following photos and captions attesting to that fact.

1. Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF WAPA Rally — What’s better than a Miata Convertible? How about the Miata RF hardtop? New for 2017, the RF’s roof does retract, but in my thinking it looks best with the top up.

2. 2018 BMW 530E PHEV

2018 BMW 530E WAPA Rally — Mr. Arsis Fruritch takes to the wheel of this sporty, but very efficient BMW 530E, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle delivering a delicious blend of luxury, performance and fuel economy.

3. 2018 Kia Stinger

2018 Kia Stinger WAPA Rally — The one vehicle outside the reach of all attendees was this stunning Kia Stinger. Kia brought a Korean-spec model to the event, but wasn’t about to allow journalists to drive and write about it. After all, that’s what we do!

4. 2018 Chevrolet Traverse

2018 Chevrolet Traverse WAPA Rally — How do you like your Chevrolet Traverse? How about all-new as in this 2018 model? If you like three-row crossover utility vehicles, the Traverse in Premier trim should be on your shopping list. It pegs all the creature comfort, tech and safety features today’s shoppers demand.

5. 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio

2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio WAPA Rally — Take a Giulia sedan and imbue it with SUV characteristics and you have the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, a sporty SUV with your choice of potent engines. The base 2.9-liter V6 was offered here, a turbo delight that’s sure to please luxury shoppers. What a beautiful interior!

6. 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia

2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia WAPA Rally — The first mass-produced Alfa Romeo for the US market is this Giulia, a beautiful sedan and direct competitor to the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Cadillac ATS and others. Like the Stelvio SUV, the Giulia offers a pair of turbocharged engine choices.

7. 2018 Mercedes-Benz C350E

2018 Mercedes-Benz C350E WAPA Rally — This Mercedes-Benz C350E is the latest in a long series of plug-in vehicles arriving to the market. This model provides 11 miles of electric-only range, enough for those short trips around town.

8. 2018 Ford F-150

2018 Ford F-150 WAPA Rally — Ford was the only manufacturer with a pickup truck available. Of course, that was none than the F-150. New this year is a 10-speed automatic transmission. You’ll also find a 3.3-liter V6 engine in some models, also new.

9. 2017 Jeep Compass

2017 Jeep Compass WAPA Rally — What’s so great about the Jeep Compass? For starters, it is light years better than the previous model. Also, it has true off-road capabilities with its available all-wheel drive system.

10. 2018 Dodge Durango SRT

2017 Dodge Durango SRT WAPA Rally — The Dodge Durango is in a league of its own when it comes to three-row crossovers thanks to the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 powering this SRT model. This “hotted up” SUV has the looks to go with its street cred and we can personally attest to its explosiveness (wink*wink)!

Arsis Fruritch

Matt Keegan

WAPA Rally: Thanks for the Memories!

It takes a lot of work to pull off the annual WAPA Rally, so hats off to WAPA President William West Hopper, Rally Director Philip Van der Vossen, WAPA board members and OEM contributors for this year’s event. The location was fantastic and the drive routes, food, drinks and prizes were all top notch.

WAPA Rally photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. Please check out my friend’s website at ArsisFruritch.com for highlights of his work.