Archives for February 2015

Efficient Turbo: 2015 Hyundai Sonata Eco

February 27, 2015 by admin 7 Comments

Hyundai continues to expand its Sonata line. For 2015, six editions are available, including an all-new Eco model. The Sonata Eco fuses power with efficiency, delivering the best amalgamation of the two across the model line.

2015 Hyundai Sonata Eco

Some manufacturers aren’t satisfied with us media folk driving just one edition of a particular make and model. Hyundai, for example, has shared multiple variations on its Sonata theme with yours truly, including Limited, Sport 2.0T and most recently an Eco edition.

Hyundai’s popular midsize sedan is now sold in six trim levels ranging from the $21,150 Sonata SE to the $33,525 Limited 2.0T. That’s quite a price span, but a well equipped model can be had for about $28,000 or about $2,000 under the price of what comparably equipped cars from its competitors are offering.

The latest edition in this front-wheel drive sedan’s arsenal was dropped off on a blustery February afternoon and stayed with me for an extra week as our local area turned into a skating rink. No problem, I managed to drive the 2015 Hyundai Sonata Eco on the days that were ice free to adequately assess this vehicle.

2015 Hyundai Sonata Eco

I won’t rehash all the design particulars and the many amenities of this model. Instead, I invite my readers to peruse my review of the Limited edition, published on this site last August. Please see: 2015 Hyundai Sonata Raises the Bar Again. What I will concentrate on here is the Eco’s powertrain system, unique to this model.

That powertrain is composed of two main ingredients: a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine and a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. Truly, it is an amalgamation that provides optimum fuel economy for the Sonata, coming in at 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway for a combined 32 mpg.

2015 Hyundai Sonata Eco

My fuel numbers averaged slightly below average, coming in at 29.6 mpg. Notably, I attributed that more ordinary figure to two issues that were at hand: 1), unusually cold weather in my region and 2), mostly local driving. In any case, achieving 30 mpg for a car of the Sonata’s size is an impressive feat.

Comparatively, the standard Sonata outfitted with a 2.4-liter normally aspirated four-cylinder engine makes 185 horsepower and achieves 25 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. On the other hand, the Sport 2.0T produces 245 horsepower with is twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder engine and achieves 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The latter numbers are equivalent to what today’s small block normally aspirated V-6 engines deliver.

2015 Hyundai Sonata

View manufacturer details and pricing

Updated Turbocharged Engine

The salient point for the Sonata Eco is that Hyundai took a small four-cylinder gasoline direct injection engine and added a turbocharger to enhance power and fuel economy. But that engine does not do it alone — Hyundai’s electronically actuated gear changing dual clutch transmission does a commendable job too, quickly shifting between gear points. For optimum shifts between gear points you can operate the stick manually. Sorry, no paddle shifters are present.

Like nearly every turbo out there, this one shines best once you get going. From a stop, you will experience some hesitation as power lags acceleration, but only very briefly. Once boost is attained you will enjoy the full benefit. Moreover, you will have an engine that operates quietly and smoothly.

2015 Hyundai Sonata Eco

For some drivers, a turbocharger isn’t enough. Indeed, they want to control the driving mode, something Hyundai makes possible via Sport mode. Here, the transmission shift points come in at a higher RPM, but your fuel economy would suffer. Then again, that may be a worthwhile exchange for optimal performance.

Not a Performance Pacesetter

But do not think that in the Sonata Eco you are getting the equivalent of a road beast with this model. You are not. The Sonata Eco has the same suspension system as the standard model and it lacks the rack-mounted, electric power steering assist found in the Sport 2.0T. Even so, not one Sonata model delivers jaw-dropping driving excitement, so you are not missing out — you can blame front-wheel drive and the family-friendly midsize segment for those omissions. If you want unabashed sporting fun, the Genesis Coupe may be more to your liking.

Now back to the model at hand. Specifically, the engine. Some readers may note that this engine first found its way under the hood of the Veloster turbo. Indeed, it had. However, it has since been modified with new intake runners to reduce weight, an electric wastegate installed for improved boost, a higher compression ratio present and a low-friction roller used to meliorate fuel economy.

2015 Hyundai Sonata Eco

As for the Sonata Eco edition itself, it is priced from $23,275 or toward the lower end of the model’s pricing spectrum. The test model had a $28,310 sticker price, owing mostly to a $4,100 tech package. That package brought in an assortment of amenities, including blind spot detection, a hands-free smart trunk opener, leather-appointed seats, heated front seats, a navigation system, SiriusXM satellite radio and an upgraded audio system.

An Effective Pricing Strategy

Opting for the Eco may be the best choice for the individual who desires a bit more power on the road and the enhanced fuel economy that goes with it. Its low price point makes it an inviting option as it is priced only $100 more than the Sonata Sport. Thus, you get a different powertrain minus the standard heated seats found in the Sport edition, providing a compelling reason for anyone to consider the Sonata Eco.

2015 Hyundai Sonata Eco

Sticker price from $23,275
Price as tested: from $28,310
Seats 5 occupants
1.6-liter 16-valve turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine
178 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
195 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,500 to 4,500 rpm
3.03 inches bore by 3.35 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 10.0-to-1
7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 110.4 inches
Length: 191.1 inches
Width: 73.4 inches
Height: 58.1 inches
Passenger volume: 106.1 cubic feet
Storage volume: 16.3 cubic feet
Towing capacity: Not Recommended
EPA: 28 mpg city, 38 mpg highway
Regular grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,250 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Good; Small Overlap Front (Acceptable)
Limited vehicle warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 7 years/Unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Montgomery, Alabama

2015 Hyundai Sonata Eco photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Volkswagen Eos Finale Set

February 26, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

After a nine-year model run, Volkswagen has set an end date for its Eos hard-top convertible. Yet another convertible model is to be discontinued as consumers embrace other vehicle choices.

We don’t cover the Volkswagen brand as much as we would prefer to on Auto Trends. A current lack of access to fleet vehicles and a paucity of hot cars restricts our news. There is only so much one can say about the Golf and Jetta!

Sadly, one of the better products to come from VW is also being discontinued this year —the hard-top Eos convertible. Eos — goddess of the dawn in Greek mythology — is an attractive 2+2 cabriolet, a generously contented model that deserves citation among pricier models, including the Lexus IS C.

June Swan Song for the EOS

We already knew that 2015 would be the final year for the Eos, but its official wind down window wasn’t known. Well, that changed earlier this week when several sources, including Automotive News Europe, confirmed that production will end by May or June. That retirement will conclude a nine-year model run with approximately 230,000 models built at a Volkswagen plant in Portugal.

The EOS’ appeal can be traced to a number of factors, including its good looks, a reasonable price and its excellent hard top. That top is a five-piece steel and glass roof that folds section by section with each part folding on top of the next part. In just 25 seconds the roof lowers itself into the trunk, while keeping 10.6 cubic feet clear for storage.

The VW Eos also has a feature that not one of its competitors can claim: a built-in, power sunroof. So, if you want a partial solar experience instead of the traditional wind-in-your-face convertible adventure, you have a choice.

The Mid-Level Final Edition

The 2015 Volkswagen Eos 2.0T is powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower at 5,100 rpm and 207 foot-pounds of torque at 1,750 rpm. It comes paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission to deliver 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The Eos takes premium grade gasoline.

Pricing for 2015 starts at $35,795 for the base Komfort model and reaches $42,335 for the Executive edition. For its final year, a “Final Edition” trim level ($39,165) replaces the previous mid-grade trim, bringing in Bi-Xenon headlamps, headlight washers, LED daytime running lights, 18-inch Vincenza alloy wheels set within all-season tires, upgraded leather seating surfaces with contrast stitching, sport suspension with body lowering, a multifunction steering wheel and keyless access with push-button start.

The Final Edition includes all Komfort features such as: the power tilt and slide glass sunroof with wind deflector, footwell lights, cornering lamps, front fog lamps, navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 12-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar. The Executive edition brings in a 10-speaker audio system; a rear view camera; decorative indoor trim, including wood inlays; a power front passenger seat with lumbar; and park distance control.

The Independent Suspension Advantage

Another delicious feature of the front-wheel-drive Eos is its fully independent suspension system. Up front, a strut arrangement with lower control arms, coil springs and an anti-roll bar is at work. To the rear a compact four-link arrangement is mounted on a subframe, one acoustically decoupled from the main body in an effort to mitigate road noise and vibration. Electronic power steering, four-wheel disc brakes and an assortment of safety features, including anti-slip regulation, is also included.

With the VW Eos’ days numbered, there just aren’t that many convertibles left, especially in this segment. The Mini Cooper Convertible is one such model as are a handful of pricier vehicles from Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus.

See Also — Good Deal or Not: Fleet Vehicles

Photos courtesy of the Volkswagen Group.

2015 Consumer Reports Annual Car Brand Report Cards

February 25, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

For three years running, Consumer Reports has issued its Annual Car Brand Report Cards. This publication reviewed 28 car brands with a US market presence and assigned scores to each one. Lexus, as usual, topped the list, but there were some surprise moves up and down the ratings that should be noted.

Buick Regal

Consumer Reports says that the Buick Regal is the top sports sedan.

The Buick marque has certainly come a long way in a short time. Six years ago, GM saved Buick and killed Pontiac, a move that resulted in much angst as well as invited a firestorm of criticism. Many had felt that GM was trading a promising, youth-oriented brand for an aged and largely forgotten make with no real purpose.

Well, this week Consumers Report essentially vindicated GM’s decision by recognizing Buick with a Top 10 spot in its latest Consumer Reports Annual Car Brand Report Cards.

Buick’s ascendancy moved it into the seventh spot and that score also represents the second consecutive year that it outperformed the other domestic brands. Buick has enjoyed a strong makeover, one that has yielded several new products, including the Verano and Regal sedans. Furthermore, a 2+2 cabriolet will arrive next year and the Avenir concept has received much praise.

Lexus NX

Lexus is the top brand with this NX its newest model.

Twin Tenets of Grading

Consumer Reports bases its brand report card on two factors: road-test score and predicted reliability. It is only the third year that CR has combined these twin tenets, representing a composite score for models across an entire brand’s line.

Once again, Lexus led all comers with very good scores for road-test performance and exemplary reliability. Mazda took second place, impressing CR’s editors, especially given that half of its models were redesigned in the past three years. Redesigns often are plagued with quality issues initially, what adversely affects scores. But not so with Mazda.

Third, fourth and fifth place were taken by Toyota, Audi, and Subaru respectively. On the other hand, some brands have stumbled in recent years, including Acura and Infiniti. Mercedes-Benz took the biggest tumble, falling from 10th to 21st place. For M-B, CR cited problems with several models, including calling the CLA four-door “coupe” unreliable.

FCA Brands Continue to Lag

FCA brands continue to perform poorly, with Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Fiat each performing near or at the bottom.

Despite the low scores, FCA brands such as Ram and Jeep continue to do well in sales. Indeed, Ram and Jeep have consistently been grabbing a larger slice of the market share pie in the past five years. Will quality concerns catch up with FCA?

Ram ProMaster City

Despite low scores, Ram and other FCA brands continue to thrive.

The Top 10 by Car Category

Besides rating the brands, CR also shared top picks from 10 popular car categories. The winners were tested in three areas: road test, reliability and safety with the publication relying on problems its subscribers reported on 1.1 million vehicles. Crash testing data from the federal government and the IIHS were also considered.

Winning the best overall score was the Tesla Model S. This electric vehicle has been a CR favorite since it arrived for the 2012 model year. The Model S is prized for its sleek exterior, upscale cabin and, of course, for its EV attributes.

Subaru won the most awards, three, by taking the best compact car (Impreza), best midsize car (Legacy) and best SUV (Forester) categories. The Chevrolet Impala finished tops amongst large cars. The Toyota Prius was the foremost green car and another Toyota product, the Highlander, was the best midsize SUV. The Audi A6 won best luxury car honors and the Buick Regal was the top sports sedan. Lastly, the Honda Odyssey was recognized as the best minivan.

NHTSA Recall Action Targets Rental Car Companies and Used Car Dealers

February 24, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

Renting or buying a used car should mean that only safe and reliable vehicles are transacted. As the law currently stands, only new cars under a recall must be fixed before they are sold. The NHTSA has asked Congress to pass legislation to close that loophole.

Renting a car or buying a used vehicle means that your ride is safety compliant, right? After all, if a car has been recalled, then it should have been serviced before it can be rented or marketed for sale, with all safety defect issues resolved.

The sensible, rational is that America’s fleet of rental and used vehicles are not only being maintained according to manufacturer guidelines, but have also kept up with every recall handed down. The truth, however, is that safety defects are often ignored or overlooked and potentially dangerous vehicles are being driven by unsuspecting motorists.

GROW AMERICA Act

Last Friday, the NHTSA called on Congress to authorize a statute proscribing rental car companies and used car marketers from renting or selling vehicles under a recall without completing the required fix first.

Specifically, the NHTSA asked Congress to legislate the GROW AMERICA Act, containing provisions requiring rental car companies to rectify any safety defects subject to recall prior to renting a vehicle. Moreover, the law would compel used car dealers to do likewise before transacting a vehicle.

As the law currently stands, all new vehicles under a recall must be fixed prior to sale. However, rental car companies, and used car dealers are not subject to that provision. To that end, in Richmond, Virginia, the NHTSA joined with representatives from the major rental car companies, and a leading consumer group to petition Congress to pass legislation to close the safety loophole.

“Every vehicle under an open safety recall should be repaired as soon as possible,” said Secretary Anthony Foxx. “Requiring rental car agencies and used car dealers to fix defective vehicles before renting is a commonsense solution that would make our roads safer. Safety advocates and the rental car industry have taken a stand for safety, and we need Congress to do so as well.”

Record Year for Recalls

In 2014, more than 60 million vehicles were recalled, including the millions that were covered under a few highly publicized notifications such as the Takata airbag dilemma and the GM ignition switch debacle. Both recalls followed reports of numerous injuries and deaths involving the affected vehicles. Indeed, at least 52 people were killed as a result of faulty GM ignition switches.

Consumers, however, have been slow in responding to recall notifications with GM offering $25 gift cards to coax owners to service their vehicles. That offer has since been rescinded. What is not known is how many of these same models are not being fixed before they are rented or sold.

The 60 million recalls in 2014 broke a record, doubling the previous mark set in 2004. That record is likely to fall this year, according to NHTSA’s new administrator, Mark R. Rosekind. Indeed, at a press meeting in January Rosekind stated, “we’ll probably see an increase in recalls. This was the year of the recall, right? Put your seatbelt on, folks.”

Verify Your Own Vehicle

Consumers should know that they do not pay for repairs for cars subject to a recall. Furthermore, manufacturers are required to notify vehicle owners when a recall has authorized, but sometimes those notices are sent to previous owners.

If you want to verify your own car’s status you can look up your car by its vehicle identification number on the NHTSA’s website. If a recall is outstanding, then contact your dealer to schedule the repair.

AutoPacific Forecasts Positive Auto Trends

February 23, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

US auto sales continue to grow and have started the year off strong. Across the board, analysts have been predicting sustainable growth for the year, but few have dared to look much further out in the future. Now, AutoPacific has released its forecast for sales through 2020, what may surprise some people.

AutoPacific Forecasts Three More Years of Growth for U.S. Light Vehicle Sales

Ever since the US auto industry plunged in 2009 to depths not observed in decades, experts in recent months have been noting that the current recovery — now in its sixth year — is an unusually lengthy one. Yet, few people are looking beyond 2015, with most simply content to state that sales will continue to rise this year.

AutoPacific Inc., an automotive marketing research and product-consulting firm, has bravely looked beyond this year in a bid to forecast annual sales for the intervening five years. AutoPacific expects sales to approximate 17 million units this year and continue to ascend for two more years, peaking at 17.24 million units in 2017.

Best Market in a Decade

For 2015, AutoPacific expects sales to escalate by 524,000 units over 2014, coming in just under 17 million units. If the company is precise in its assessment, then the market would reach a threshold last attained in 2006.

“U.S. sales recovery has been steady since hitting the bottom of the decline in 2009, though recent years have seen things taper off from 11% growth in 2010 to 6% in 2014, and a forecasted 3% growth this year,” says Ed Kim, Vice President of Industry Analysis at AutoPacific. Furthermore, AutoPacific’s forecast for the year sees a 55 percent truck to 45 percent car allocation as consumers continue to embrace crossover utility vehicles, especially compact models. That apportionment would represent the largest truck share of the market ever seen.

AutoPacific Forecast Through 2020

With 2017 forecast as the peak sales year for the decade, AutoPacific has not envisioned that a major market correction is in the offing. Instead, the company has forecast a slight contraction beginning in 2018 and continuing through 2020.

The logic given for that downswing is based on two factors:

1) a probable rise in interest rates in the next few years and,
2) young buyers, also known as Millennials, waiting longer to purchase their first new car.

An overarching reason might also be weighted and that would involve loan terms. Notably, we are currently seeing loans for 72 months to as long as 96 months offered by some financial institutions, including the Navy Federal Credit Union. Indeed, the interest rate on 8-year auto loans underwritten by the NFCU presently stands at just 4.49 percent, although they are offered only to people with superior credit.

The Effect of Rising Interest Rates on Loan Terms

Once interest rates begin to ascend, then monthly payments will also begin to rise. Likewise, lenders may pull back and offer shorter term loans only, effectively shutting some consumers out of the new car market.

Speaking of loans, AutoPacific says that the average loan length today is 66 months (5.5 years) compared to 48 months (4 years) just a few years ago. Declared Kim about today’s loans, “Vehicle buyers will be in a negative equity position on their loans a lot longer than in the past, and that will have a profound impact on replacement demand in the future.”

Forecast Accuracy, Consumer Data and Purchase Intentions

AutoPacific’s forecast accuracy over the past 10 years has been 95.5 percent, with 2008 and 2009 coming in below 90 percent as most analysts underestimated the breadth and depth of the last recession. The company relies on consumer supplied data and economic forecasts to aid it with its own forecasting. Moreover, the company indicated that intelligence also helps analysts “…better understand vehicle buyer purchase intentions, including brand consideration and future segment intention.”

Chart supplied by AutoPacific.

Journalist Survey: Social Media Participation

February 20, 2015 by admin 1 Comment

The methods journalists use to share content has changed remarkably, especially since the advent of social media. No longer can PR professionals and marketers pitch journalists without considering their current needs.

Journalism has evolved over the past two decades, largely making the transition from print to online media. That metamorphosis has not been a seamless one, however. Indeed, not a few “old school” people were pushed out of positions with some choosing to retire instead of remaking themselves.

Some of us, including yours truly, have managed to bridge the tenuous divide between old and new, finding a handful of print opportunities still available to go with our online exertions. It is important to realize that in both cases there is an overarching necessity that stems from writing today: social media and a need to actively participate or lose your audience.

That participation usually comes through a small collection of social media sites, including Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. There are others, but the pull of these three is usually far greater than what you would achieve on Instagram, Google+, Pinterest or any other site, for example.

Muck Rack and Edelman

Muck Rack, a website dedicated to help journalists connect with PR pros, marketers and companies, undertook an online survey in partnership with Edelman — the world’s largest PR firm — late last year. That survey was directed to journalists in a bid to gauge how they use social media to write and distribute their stories.

Specifically, the partners conducted the survey with the intent to “…gain an understanding of media attitudes, behaviors, and perceptions surrounding the ever-changing landscape of news.”

Some 251 journalists participated between late November and mid-December 2014, thus the margin of error is quite high, coming in at 6.19 percent. Nevertheless, the survey offers a solid synopsis of “shareable content” among those of us tasked with researching, interviewing, assembling, writing, editing and publishing that information from a solely professional perspective.

Special Ingredients for Journalists

The survey revealed some points about shareable content that are widely understood, but the importance may not be fully grasped. Indeed, 82 percent of content shared by journalists includes an image with another 33 percent using video to aid in dissemination. Notably, 66 percent write articles that may be correlated with a story already trending in the news, with 48 percent localizing that information to reach a target audience.

Definitely, brevity is important too with one in three professionals ensuring that their information is condensed to “bite-sized form.” Furthermore, journalists including quotes from their sources does not seem to carry the same magnitude it once did. Yet, 16 percent of the journalists do include quotes from an academic or industry expert, with only a small sample relying on third party, company spokesman and blogger quotes.

One in four respondents indicated that sharing data or numbers in their headlines was important with another 22 percent relying on information that has the potential to be framed in “listicle” form.

Social Media Preferences

As for sharing information on social media, 76 percent of journalists indicated that they “are feeling more pressure now to share on social media,” than they were in the past. And not just social media sites, but on their news organization’s platforms.

By far, Twitter has a special place for journalists, with 78 percent of journalists claiming that it is the most used in their profession to 18 percent for Facebook and just 2 percent for LinkedIn. Further, 75 percent of journalists use Twitter to build their own brand to 16 percent for Facebook and only 3 percent for LinkedIn. Notably, 86 percent of journalists check Twitter several times a day — I can personally attest to that!

Video’s Place in Social Media

Writing stories and taking pictures is still important for journalists, but video’s place should not be underestimated. Certainly, if you are a PR person and you want to get your company’s information out there, 74 percent of journalists favor original video created by your company or website.

That number compares to 14 percent who use consumer-generated videos, 13 percent who accept a courtesy video from a third party and 3 percent who welcome a corporate/branded video. Moreover, only 2 percent accept a stock video from a subscription service.

Pitch Me Your Very Best

The survey’s findings correspond with my personal approach to social media. It also underscores a few points that I have repeated over the past few years, including some that have been shared by my colleagues.

First, get to know me. I cannot tell you how many PR people reach out to me anonymously on any given day. Addressing me by my first name is important. Other journalists feel the same way and we are more likely to trash your information than to respond to blanket or poorly-pitched requests. Make an effort!

Second, keep it sector specific. Yes, many of us write for different sectors — you have to if you want to make a living these days — but usually we define ourselves by our chief discipline. Reading up on social media profiles can help you determine whether a query is on target or is clearly misplaced.

Third, help me meet my deadlines. This point may be the biggest gripe among my colleagues. For example, when I am working on a story and am up against a hard deadline, you are informed of that but you still miss it. It is important that PR people make it plain when a deadline cannot be met or might be missed. Transparency on your part helps build confidence, trust and goodwill on our parts.

See Also — Midlife Crisis or a Buying Opportunity?

Refreshed Toyota Avalon Set for 2016

February 19, 2015 by admin 5 Comments

The segment for traditional, large sedans is a small one, yet important to manufacturers nonetheless. For Toyota, the Avalon has faithfully served the brand for two decades, representing a plush, front-wheel drive vehicle that will be refreshed for the 2016 model year.

The Chicago Auto Show served as the perfect venue to unveil three new or special edition Toyota models at the McCormick Place convention center. At a media event held just before the start of the Chicago show, Toyota showcased a pair of special edition Camry and Corolla models. In addition, a refreshed Toyota Avalon was presented, representing a mid-product-cycle update of the current generation model introduced four years earlier.

New Avalon Suspension Systems

As before, the 2016 Toyota Avalon will be powered by a 3.5-liter, V-6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The refreshed model will feature five categorical editions — XLE, XLE Plus, XLE Premium, Limited and Touring. A hybrid edition also returns and will be available in XLE Plus, XLE Premium and Limited editions.

One of the more significant changes for 2016 is the development of a pair of unique suspension systems “to better align with diverse customer preferences.”

The first retuned suspension system will place an emphasis on ride comfort for the XLE through Limited grades. The second system will deliver a more dynamic and responsive driving experience for the Touring grade alone.

These changes enable Toyota to keep Avalon at the top of the segment, in a bid to fend off its closest competitors, specifically the Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Impala and Nissan Maxima.

Exterior and Interior Refinements

In addition, all 2016 Avalon models will receive several exterior and interior updates, including a wider, lower front grille with narrow upper grille design, newly-designed turn signals (replacing fog lights), refined LED taillights, chrome rear bumper accent, and new gray accent stitching with a light gray interior.

Further changes will be noted in the XLE and XLE Plus editions. As enumerated, customers will find: redesigned 17-inch alloy wheels, a 7-inch Entune Audio Plus screen, premium woodgrain dash ornamentation, and a tire-specific tire pressure monitoring system.

Technology changes will be evident in the Avalon XLE Premium grade as it gains Entune Premium Audio with Navigation and App Suite, and the Qi Wireless Charging as standard equipment. The Touring editions will receive redesigned 18-inch dark gray painted alloy wheels, a new sportier front fascia, updated LED headlights and daytime running lights, and unique badging.

The state-of-the-art Avalon Limited will receive proprietary updates such as 18-inch alloy Super Chrome wheels on gas models, and new 17-inch alloy Super Chrome wheels on the Limited hybrid. Further, the Limited will gain automatic high beam headlights, dynamic radar cruise control, a pre-collision system, and lane departure alert.

Avalon Sales Statistics and Rejuvenation

A refreshed Avalon comes as sales for the current model slipped by 5.4 percent to 67,183 units in 2014. That figure compares to a 5.1 percent Toyota brand increase for the year as Camry, Corolla and RAV4 led the charge last year. Thus, with a tweaked flagship sedan in place, Toyota will be better positioned in the market for the next few years with customers benefiting from a suite of notable refinements.

As for the Camry and Corolla, a pair of special edition models will augment each product line.

The Camry Special Edition, with a target build of 12,000 units this year, will receive machine-faced, 18-inch wheels, smoked taillights and a standard moonroof. Inside, high contrast blue stitching, black SofTex seats with blue inserts, and a blue meter cluster will be offered. A smart key system with push-button start and a Qi wireless charging system for smartphones will also be included.

The Corolla Special Edition, with a target build of 8,000 units this year, gains 17-inch alloy wheels with gloss black finish, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, a sport mode and rear disc brakes. It will also receive Bluetooth capability, push-button start, automatic climate control, and a rear backup camera.

Avalon photo courtesy of the Toyota Motor Company.

Multimatic to Build the Ford GT

February 18, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

The upcoming Ford GT super car was a closely guarded secret until its stunning reveal at an auto show in Detroit this past Jan. However, Ford will not build this 600-horsepower beast in-house, choosing instead to tap Multimatic, Inc., a Canadian supplier, to assemble it in Ontario.

The Ford GT is a 600+ horsepower beast, powered by an enhanced twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6 engine. The super car literally stole the show at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, and has also stolen the hearts of not a few race car enthusiasts. The GT will go into production in Canada, with privately-held and Toronto-based Multimatic tasked with handling the work.

Production of the Ford GT will commence in late 2016 according to a report filed by The Globe & Mail. Joe Henrich, president of the Americas for Ford Motor Company, made the announcement at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto late last week, confirming speculation that an outside supplier would, indeed, handle production.

Ford GT and Ford Leadership.

Left to Right: Bill Ford, Mark Fields, Joe Hinrichs and Raj Nair with the new Ford GT. All four men were part of a limited group of people behind the super car’s secretive development.

Multimatic Does Performance

Multimatic and Ford have collaborated for more than 30 years. The privately-held company is the supplier of choice for other companies too, especially renowned performance models, including the Chevrolet Z/28 and Aston Martin. For instance, in cooperation with Chevrolet Performance, the company supplies lightweight Multimatic DSSV dampers for the Z/28 and other Camaro models. Moreover, the company says that its DSSV has been the damper of choice for cars running the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The Ford GT has been receiving well-deserved accolades since its global premier, including garnering the prestigious EyesOn Design Award for best production vehicle at the NAIAS. That award is assigned only to new production vehicles debuting at the Detroit show. Likewise, the Ford GT won “Best of Show” honors in the 2015 Detroit News Reader’s Choice Awards.

Lightweight Ford GT

Ford’s super car expressly demonstrates the company’s innovation as it fuses an ultra-efficient, high-performance engine with advanced light-weighting and aerodynamics to deliver a truly exceptional race car. Furthermore, it also represents just one of at least a dozen new models coming from Ford Performance over the next five years, including specific Mustang and F-150 variants as well as the upcoming Ford Focus RS.

Ford’s GT features a mid-mounted twin-turbocharged V-6 engine, with power sent to the rear wheels. It is composed of a lustrous, aerodynamic, two-door coupe body shell. Lightweight materials, including carbon fiber structural elements and aluminum front and rear subframes, will enable outstanding acceleration and handling along with improved overall efficiency.

Ford says that the hyper EcoBoost V-6 is “based on the same race-proven engine architecture serving Ford’s IMSA Daytona Prototype endurance racing efforts,” and features a generous power band with remarkable time-to-torque temperament.

The GT’s lightweight chassis is an engineering marvel as it is marked by an active racing-style torsion bar and pushrod suspension, with adjustable ride height. The super car’s 20-inch wheels are attired with Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tires composed of a special compound and structure engineered particularly for the Ford GT. Its multi-spoke wheels encompass carbon-ceramic brake discs at every corner.

Limited Build, High Price

Inside, Ford says that the interior has been optimized to ensure control, comfort and safety. Dihedral or upward swinging doors enable access to that cabin, itself marked by an F1-style steering wheel with integrated driver controls. A configurable, digital instrument panel and paddle shifters are among the other highlights of the cockpit.

Certainly, the Ford GT will be built in small numbers and its price has not been announced. Still, with the GT mentioned in the same breath as other high-end models — Lamborghini Huracan ($237,250) and McLaren 650S ($265,500) — a quarter of million dollar price tag seems entirely plausible.

Photo Courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

Midlife Crisis or a Buying Opportunity?

February 17, 2015 by admin 1 Comment

What some men and women encounter as they approach the midpoint of their lives. For some, car buying satisfies their quest to harness a slice of their once remembered youthful past.

Some men and women, especially when they hit a certain age, make impulsive decisions, including not a few that they may regret later. One of those milestones is middle age, a time when certain individuals may feel that life is speeding by way too fast to not slow down a bit and do something different. Like to purchase a new car.

Midlife Crisis Car

Indeed, in a recently released survey of 1,005 adults, the term “midlife crisis car” has acknowledged perceptions about certain consumers of note. Specifically, one in four Americans indicated that they would consider purchasing a car associated with their personal midlife crisis. And what they would buy depends largely on quantifiable demographic factors, including their gender and where they reside.

Almost 30 percent of men indicated that would very or be somewhat likely to buy a car when experiencing a midlife crisis. Likewise, that figure corresponds to 21 percent of women. For him, a black sports car would be the top choice. In similar fashion, a red sport utility vehicle would satisfy her urge. Overall, a new sports car was the foremost preference.

“The traditional sports car is no longer the favorite midlife crisis car choice for everyone. SUVs are becoming more popular as midlife crisis cars among women and in the Midwest,” said Cliff Wood, CarMax executive vice president of stores.

Midlife Crisis Car

Vibrant Hues, Tantalizing Pigments

And with black (20 percent) being the new red, the survey revealed that silver/gray (19 percent) is the second color choice. As for red, it was tied with blue as the third coloration of choice, with 17 percent each. Surprisingly, another flashy chroma, yellow, barely registered — finishing as the color of choice for just 2 percent of the respondents.

Not all areas of the country were equally represented in how they would act in response to a midlife crisis, especially when it came to a vehicle purchase. In fact, people living in the South led the way with more than 30 percent of respondents indicating that they were very or somewhat likely to buy one.

On the other hand, Midwesterners showed the most restraint with at least 80 percent of them indicating that they were not very likely or not likely at all to make a crisis acquisition. Moreover, for those in the Midwest who concurred that a purchase would coincide with a personal crisis, an SUV was the top selection — representing the only region in the country where “sports car” was not the preeminent choice.

Body Styles to Satisfy an Urge

Collectively, 20 percent of new vehicle purchases would go to a sports car. Another 17 percent indicated that an SUV would be in the offing, followed by 15 percent opting for a sedan. Who knew that four doors could ensue such an intimate catastrophe?

So, how about you? Is there a midlife crisis just waiting to happen or have you long sailed past that milestone? To be sure, a midlife crisis is no laughing matter for those that are experiencing one, although buying a new car may assuage those feelings and enable at least some people to enjoy the ride of their dreams.

Kia Trail’ster Concept Teases Chicago

February 16, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

The Kia Trail’ster Concept is for the hip hamster crowd and their human friends.

Kia Trail'ster Concept

This Kia Trail’ster is all set to visit your favorite ski lodge.

Kia Motors picked the perfect venue for unveiling its hybrid Trail’ster Concept. Folks in the winter-socked Chicago Auto Show are seeing first hand what this hybrid all-wheel-drive variant of the Kia Soul can offer, the latest iteration on its urban utility vehicle frame.

Indeed, if the Kia Trail’ster is built, it would offer a unique approach to light-duty off-roading. Also, it would take on the soon-to-be-released Jeep Renegade, itself geared toward 20-something urban dwellers. The Windy City may be piled with snow, but the Kia concept could offer a practical reality if it is ever produced.

So, let’s examine some of the preeminent features of this model before we theorize whether it will go into production or not.

First, it harnesses the Kia Soul platform. The Kia Trail’ster is the Kia Soul, but amplified. Everything about the current Soul is used, right down to the platform. The distinguishing features are also evident, but utilizing the Soul is an efficient use of this product’s space. There are some important distinctions here too, including its cloth roll-top roof, integrated roof rack fittings with aluminum cross rails, and special LED lighting treatments.

Kia Trail'ster Concept

Second, you get lifted. The trend toward higher profile vehicles continues, but with a twist. The Kia Trail’ster rides 2.5 inches higher to enjoy improved ground clearance. That’s exactly what is needed if this vehicle is to have any chance of performing light-duty off-roading. The upcoming Volvo S60 Cross Country is a contemporary example of an elevated model. The Jeep Eagle is an earlier example.

Third, all-wheel drive is standard. The Kia Soul is front-wheel drive with no all-wheel-drive variant. However, Kia has taken a different approach in the Trail’ster by going with all-wheel drive. AWD combined with the lifted profile will take this model to places where no other Kia has gone before.

Fourth, you are looking at a hybrid drivetrain. Under the hood is a potent 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, making an even 185 horsepower and 185 foot-pounds of torque. That alone gives this model some kick. However, Kia did not stop there. Indeed, they have added an electric propulsion system, what draws energy from a 1.2 kilowatt per hour lithium-ion polymer battery. Moreover, it adds 35 horsepower and 100 foot-pounds of torque to the mix, and improves fuel economy by 25 to 30 percent and highway economy by 5 to 10 percent over the normally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine used in the Soul. Further, Kia says that it has the ability to run on electric-only power for two to three miles at times. Together, that brings combined fuel economy to just above 30 mpg or well above what any Jeep Renegade model will deliver.

Kia Trail'ster Concept

A weatherproof, retractable top could be in the offing.

Can We Build It? Yes, We Can!

Naturally, a model such as the Kia Trail’ster concept whets the appetites of the very audience that would be best attracted to this type of vehicle. And that would be young urbanites who may like to make a dash to the country and slop and glop their way through the mud. When not in the country, the Kia Trail’ster would serve as an efficient city car. That makes for a rare fusion of two distinct model types in one body.

The Kia Trail’ster along with the earlier Kia Soul’ster concept, demonstrates that Kia is serious about pushing boundaries. Both models could very well go into production as Soul variants, harnessing a valuable moniker well known for its hip anthropomorphic hamsters as well as for its excellent value and vivacity.

See Also — Stunning: Kia Cross GT Concept

Photos courtesy of Kia Motors.