2016 SUVs

Experienced: 2016 Lexus LX 570

August 22, 2016 by admin 9 Comments

What’s big, beautiful, and seats eight? That would be the LX 570, the largest of four SUVs sold by Lexus, Toyota’s luxury brand. Two hybrid variants are also available.

This vehicle takes the bones of the highly capable Toyota Land Cruiser and adds Lexus panache to create one of the most capable luxury SUVs anywhere. Indeed, the Lexus LX 570 should be mentioned in the same breath as the Land Rover Range Rover and the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, with all three serving a niche market.

A 2016 Lexus LX 570 was a recent weekly visitor, a model I had long sought, but what remained elusive. Several calls and messages through my usual media channels finally sprung one for me. So, I jumped at the chance as soon as I heard it was available.

Besides needing to share details about this SUV here and elsewhere, I personally wanted to satisfy my curiosity to gauge how well the LX 570 lives up to its mystique. Like the emblematic Land Cruiser, the LX 570 has earned a reputation that places it at the pinnacle among top-end SUVs — but I still needed to personally determine if that notoriety was well deserved.

Lexus offers the LX 570 in one trim — loaded. With a base price of $88,880 ($89,380 for the 2017s), you have to figure it comes very well equipped. And it does. Although I drove a 2016 model, the package upgrade information covers the 2017s, given we’re straddling the model year switchover as of publication.

Available Options and Accessories

This standard four-wheel drive model offers two packages of note: a $2,005 dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system composed of LCD screens, a DVD/CD player, a pair of headphones, and a two-prong AC power outlet. You can also choose a $1,190 luxury package outfitted in semi-aniline perforated leather with heated and ventilated front- and second-row seats. Rounding out the package is four-zone climate control, supplying one more zone for your ambient control versus the standard three.

Buyers might also opt for such options as a 19-speaker Mark Levinson Reference surround sound audio system ($2,350), a color heads-up display ($900), 21-inch alloy wheels ($745), and a heated wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel ($150). A much-desired cool box ($170) is also available.

Quite easily, your LX 570 may come with each of these features driving your final price close to $100,000. It is doubtful that serious buyers would quibble over the final price — the LX 570 presents an ostentatious display of upward mobility — what better way to project your personal wealth?

The Lexus Design Language

The LX 570 has a familiar silhouette, one common to nearly all traditional, full-size SUVs. It is based on Toyota’s large off-road vehicle platform, loosely shared with the Toyota Tundra pickup truck. Where Land Rover opts for unibody construction, Lexus matches Mercedes-Benz in providing a body-on-frame design.

Body-on-frame provides some advantages when tackling the toughest terrains, but that shouldn’t be taken as a slap against Land Rover — when you already have a successful design, you just go with it. And that’s what Lexus has done.

I’ve heard my share of comments regarding the current Lexus design language, particularly its dominant hourglass or spindle grille. These comments range from “I love it!” to “that’s hideous!” but the variation of opinions should point to something else — Lexus continues to get noticed and has largely lost its reputation for “safe” or even bland styling.

What Lexus hasn’t lost is its quality and reliability nor its strong resale value. There isn’t a luxury automobile brand that matches Lexus, a marque that builds on the Toyota brand’s stellar quality.

The LX’s striking frontal presentation is amplified by its bold wraparound headlamp clusters punctuated by swoosh-like LED accent lights. The lower section of the grille juts out wider than the top part and is itself hemmed in by embrasures housing boomerang-styled LED fog lights.

Noticeable creases and body sculpting run from the top of the grille and across the hood’s edge, ending at the bottom of the windshield. A powerful and confident expression is projected, in keeping with this SUV’s persona.

Along the sides, Lexus fashioned the layout by adding chrome touches on the belt line and at the rear window, by “smoking out” the roof pillars, and by adding privacy glass for the rear compartment. Additional creases and body sculpting are present for added distinction; the multi-spoke alloy wheels provide this model with additional pop.

From the rear you’ll note a liftgate spoiler, large wraparound combination lights, and fog lamps. Chrome ornamentation is present too, but tastefully placed. Other embellishments include creases and sculpting to round out the rear fascia.

Take a Look Inside

Lexus is a master of interiors, richly dressing all cabins in leather, wood, carbon fiber, chrome, and other high-end materials. If you are looking for plastic, you’ll have a hard time finding it. If it is there, it probably is indistinguishable.

Seating for eight is accomplished by supplying the expected bucket seats up front, a 40-20-40 bench seat in the middle and a 50-50 bench seat in the rear. Let’s just say the first two rows are as comfortable as you’ll find anywhere. As for the third-row seat, it is best served for holding tweens — children who have outgrown their car seats, but have yet to hit their growth spurt. It is a narrow window at best, but when you’re wanting to maximize passenger room, this is what you have to do. Although, if you need room for eight, the LX doesn’t match the Cadillac Escalade, Infiniti QX50 or the Lincoln Navigator in shoulder, hip, and leg room. Consider this fact its main deficiency.

When it comes to luxury vehicles, there is a wealth of amenities for your fixation. It is easy to overlook something, especially when you only have a week to examine the vehicle and everything it provides.

I almost missed the “cool box” feature of this model, what replaces the usual storage compartment inside the front armrest with a cooling chamber. Quite by accident, I discovered it, although with its very apparent switch inside and instructions on how to operate same, it should have been easy to spot.

But that’s not how I discovered it. Instead, by storing an extra bottled water inside, I discovered about an hour later that the said bottle was not simply cooled, but chilled. Indeed, the box matches the temperature of your home refrigerator, chilling whatever you have placed inside.

The cooling switch had been left on by the last journalist, so I was the “accidental” beneficiary of that oversight. The box is large enough to hold six one-liter bottles — standing, not stacked — or you might bring your lunch and keep it chilled inside. By the way, when the cool box switch is activated, the front air conditioning automatically comes on.

Beyond the nifty cool box, the LX offers an embarrassment of riches. Beyond the exquisitely stitched leather and the choice woods, you’ll find a cabin carefully laid out and dressed for the occasion.

The instrument panel is marked by a pair of large displays for the tachometer and speedometer as well as two smaller displays for temperature and oil pressure. Between the main dials is a digital display featuring other vehicle and driver information.

Just above the center stack is a 12.3-inch color display — a rectangular block fixed to the lower end of the dashboard. It serves as the nerve center for Lexus Enform, the brand’s infotainment system. This system is managed by a Remote Touch controller, by voice or with the attendant switches. You’ll also find an analog clock, audio and climate control switches, and the expected connectivity ports — USB, auxiliary audio, and 12-volt outlets. Between the seats is the transmission shifter and the 4×4 controls.

Besides the cool box, other special touches include aluminum scuff plates, a tilt and slide moonroof, outboard heated and ventilated seats in the second row, and the wireless entertainment system.

One Powertrain Combination

Lexus offers one powertrain choice with the LX. You get a normally aspirated 5.7-liter, V-8 engine making 383 horsepower and 403 foot-pounds of torque. It comes paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

This engine is also found in the Land Cruiser and it powers the burly Tundra pickup truck. It is designed to deliver uncompromising power and does so quite well. What you won’t get is outstanding fuel economy — expect no better than 15 mpg when operating your LX. The LX also tows up to 7,000 pounds, a number that is at least 1,000 pounds less than the competition.

Smooth Ride, Capable Off-Roader

Traditional SUVs are creaky and uncomfortable, but that’s the experience of yesteryear. These days, the few remaining models are better refined, delivering a comfortable ride, a quiet interior, while still maintaining the off-road goodness customers demand. Yes, even some LX customers will take their SUV off road, going beyond the usual dirt or gravel road to crisscross creeks, push through a fen or to navigate a steep incline.

Lexus engineered the LX to do all that and more and threw in crawl control to help you maneuver the toughest terrain. With crawl control on, you simply control the steering and allow the SUV to ride out the harshest terrain at speeds up to, but not exceeding 5 mph. The system has found its way into other vehicles, most notably the Toyota Tacoma midsize pickup truck, but has been available in the LX for several years.

Although the vast majority of owners likely use their SUVs for show and tell — show people what they own, while telling them about their wealth — that the LX can match what the toughest trucks can do provides comfort and confidence for the owner.

Parting Thoughts

The Lexus LX 570 isn’t for everyone, mostly because its price is only attainable for a limited number of consumers. For those who choose one, it provides an experience that blends Lexus luxury with proven Toyota off-road capabilities, effectively matching if not exceeding the best of the competition.

See Also — Midsize Luxury Sedan: 2017 Genesis G80

Driven: The Third-Generation Honda Pilot

August 19, 2016 by admin 25 Comments

The third-generation Honda Pilot takes a bow.

Amongst three-row, midsize crossover utility vehicles, the Honda Pilot has made a name for itself. This seven-passenger model offers standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive, is powered by a V6 engine, and is all new for 2016. As before, it offers seating for up to eight.

Business has been good for Honda, arguably one of the most conservative automakers in the world. Three models — the Civic compact coupe and sedan (and soon hatchback), the compact CR-V crossover, and the midsize Accord coupe and sedan — account for the lion’s share of this brand’s business. But it is models such as the Pilot and the Odyssey minivan that have kept Honda faithful loyal to the brand, vehicles with higher profit margins too.

When Honda introduced the Pilot in 2003, it represented the leading-edge of midsize car-platform-based models. At the time, its top competitors from Chevrolet, Toyota, Ford, Nissan, and Chrysler were dominated by traditional body-on-frame SUVs, models typically heavier, clunkier, and simply less refined than today’s crossovers.

Since then, the Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, and Dodge Durango have made the crossover switch. GM also released a slew of new crossovers in the GMC Acadia, Chevrolet Traverse, and the Buick Enclave. But Honda was already entrenched in the segment and enjoying the sales boost that come with it.

Honda offers the 2016 Pilot in five trims: LX ($30,345), EX ($32,780), EX-L ($36,255), Touring ($41,370), and Elite ($46,770). Front-wheel drive is standard across the model line, except in the Elite edition. Otherwise, add $1,800 to opt for all-wheel drive.

Sleeker, Modern Exterior Design

In keeping with Honda’s approach to the market, the third-generation Pilot maintains a conservative expression. At the same time, the current model offers a sleek and athletic body, losing the previous boxiness of the first- and second-generation models. The new model is more aerodynamic with its curved front fascia, canted windshield, flowing roof and belt lines, and rounded corners.

Standard for 2016 are LED taillights. Also available are 20-inch wheels, LED projector headlights, and LED daytime running lights. For the first time, 20-inch wheels and a panoramic glass roof are available.

Manufacturers typically supply top trim level models to media folk and that means we may skew our reviews toward the more expensive models. What all models do have in common include the following: alloy wheels, all-season tires, a MacPherson strut front suspension, a multi-link rear suspension, electric power-assisted steering, and front and rear stabilizer bars.

Also available depending on upper trim models are fog lights, a power moonroof, power tailgate, roof rails, parking sensors, and a panoramic roof.

Interior Improvements and Amenities

Inside, the Pilot continues as before with standard seating for seven in a 2-2-3 arrangement or for eight in a 2-3-3 layout. But swapping out the captain’s chairs for a split folding bench seat means you also lose the second-row console featuring a pair of cup holders and a large storage tray. That tray is open and can hold your tablet. And in the Elite edition, you can connect to a USB port, an auxiliary outlet, or plug into the 115-volt outlet. Headphone connection points are also present — all connection points can be found at the rear of the front center console.

All models come equipped with power accessories, push button start, a tilt and telescopic steering column, a sunglasses holder, map lights, floor mats, cargo area hooks, and tie downs, a cargo storage light, and a hidden storage well. This model also comes with 14 beverage holders — two in the first row and six each in the second and third rows.

As for connectivity, you’ll find front, center, and rear 12-volt outlets (no rear outlet in the LX), an MP3/auxiliary input jack, and multiple USB ports. The standard audio package is a 200-watt, 7-speaker system with a five-inch screen, and Bluetooth connectivity. Beyond the LX edition, you’ll find an eight-inch display, HondaLink, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Pandora compatibility.

Some models make available a navigation system (available with the EX-L and standard on the Touring and Elite editions), HD radio, and a 540-watt, 10-speaker audio system.

The Pilot Elite comes elegantly dressed with soft touch materials liberally used throughout the cabin. Contrasting upper and lower dashboard colors give this SUV pop as does the color-coordinated trim dividing same. Yes, you’ll find plastics throughout the cabin, but they’re tastefully presented and typically useful for wiping down surfaces such as cup holders, door inlays, handles, and the like.

Standard fabric seats give way to leather in the EX-L on up. A leather-wrapped steering wheel is added at this level too.

The instrument panel is the same across the model line with indicator lights the only difference for some models. The electronic interface is composed of a large tachometer and a speedometer with the driver information digitally displayed between the two.

Honda orders the center stack with the color display on tap, itself flanked by a pair of vents. Beneath that are controls for the climate system, a CD player, and seat heating and cooling buttons. At the base of the stack is a 12-volt outlet and two USB ports. An open storage area suitable for housing your smartphone is also present.

Dividing the front seats is a funky transmission shifter and two cup holders. I say “funky” because instead of a stick you get switches for shifting. Park, neutral, and drive are represented by push down switches. To place the transmission in reverse, you need to pull the switch toward the rear.

If you’re a fan of clever center console compartments, the 2016 Pilot has this nailed down. With this, Honda dispenses the traditional armrest — both front seats have drop down armrests — and goes with a deep storage area with a compartment tray and the expected 12-volt outlet, USB port, and an auxiliary port. The top of the unit slides back, making it easy to reach inside.

New Engine and Transmission

If the 3.5-liter, V6 engine seems familiar, it is. But only in size. The latest version is all-new and imbued with Honda Earth Dreams technology. Specifically, this direct-injected engine has variable cylinder management, representing cylinder deactivation technology. This means that half the engine’s cylinders are shut down when not needed, such as at highway cruising speed.

This change also enables the Pilot to squeeze out an extra one mpg around town and two mpg on the highway. Importantly, the 2016 Pilot is no less powerful than the outgoing model. In fact, horsepower is boosted from 250 hp to 280 hp; torque improves from 253 foot-pounds to 262 foot-pounds.

As before, a six-speed automatic transmission is standard, but if you choose the Touring or Elite editions, then you get an all-new nine-speed automatic transmission. The new transmission was procured from ZF Friedrichshafen’s factory in South Carolina and has already found its way into various Acura, Chrysler, Jeep, and Land Rover models.

On the Road

Step on the gas pedal and the 2016 Pilot presses forward. As the transmission shifts through the lower gears, it does so seamlessly. At highway speeds, some hesitation is apparent, although it is safe to say it isn’t something you’ll experience all the time.

Generally, if you press hard on the accelerator, the transmission may not shift up through the higher gears immediately. Other reporters have said this issue is much more magnified while ascending and descending hills as the transmission hunts for the correct gear. My mostly flat land drives didn’t reveal the same level of hesitation and if the problem is still apparent, Honda may have “cured” the issue with a software patch.

Beyond the transmission quirks, the 2016 Pilot handles well and the brakes are terrific. You won’t find quite the composed experience you would in a luxury SUV such as the similar Acura MDX, but you should find it more than satisfactory. Given that the Pilot shares its architecture with the competent Odyssey, none of this should be surprising.

Parting Thoughts

So, where should you begin to look at the Honda Pilot? If you’re a safety fan, then any model available with Honda LaneWatch, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control should suffice.

These so-called driver assist technologies are available or standard on all models except for the LX edition. Related to this, the 2016 Honda Pilot earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ award, the institute’s highest honor.

If you want automatic high-beam headlights or the blind spot information system with cross traffic monitor, only the Elite model offers this. But that also means going with the nine-speed transmission and possible problems you may encounter.

Your best bet may be the EX-L edition, what brings in available road and collision mitigation, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. Add in the navigation and the rear entertainment system, and your final price comes in around $40,000.

2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali Redux

August 12, 2016 by admin 5 Comments

GMC’s largest and most luxurious SUV.

The SUV market continues to expand as consumers make the shift away from cars. The GMC Yukon and the larger Yukon XL are part of that trend and include customers moving up from a minivan or a crossover utility vehicle.

2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali

A 2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali was a recent weekly driver, but it wasn’t the first time I’ve been behind-the-wheel time of this traditional, body-on-frame SUV. Indeed, in my past reviews and thoughts about the model I have affectionately called it “Cadillac Escalade Light,” offering homage to GM’s most luxurious SUV.

That doesn’t mean the big GMC is a lightweight — far from it. It’s as close to a Cadillac model you can get without invading the Escalade’s space. But that still means you get perforated leather seats, heated and cooled front bucket seats, heated second-row outboard seats, a heated steering wheel, a Bose audio system, wireless phone charging, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot among other features.

Year-Over-Year Updates

The current-generation Yukon XL was released in 2015, thus its most significant changes took place last year. Even so, GMC wasn’t about to settle on its laurels as there are a few new or updated features included this year.

For one, GMC increased the Intellilink’s processing speed and introduced Apple CarPlay. An enhanced “Driver Alert Package” includes lane keep assist and automatic high/low beam headlamps. Two new exterior colors, a pair of 22-inch wheel choices, and a capless fuel filler feature round out the changes introduced in 2016.

What makes a GMC worthy of the Denali label? Answer: Denali is the top trim level for the brand and is found in every model except for GMC’s full-size Savana van line.

Lay on Some Chrome-Like Touches

One distinguishing feature for all Denalis is the generous amounts of chrome-like trim surrounding the grille, bumpers, headlights, crossing the belt line, on the lower profile trim, enveloping the windows, and on to the rear fascia. Not to be left out are the wheels, typically clad in thick chrome alloy.

The enhanced look isn’t for everyone, but it does provide visual appeal, allowing adorned GMC models get noticed. And if you’re spending around $80,000 for one, you don’t want it to be confused with lesser models. Sure, the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban have their own appeal, but then they’re not GMC.

The Yukon XL is a massive vehicle and represents the extended wheelbase version of the Yukon. This model is marked by a bold honeycomb grille, flared headlamp assemblies, and distinct pockets housing the LED fog lamps.

The long slab sides are marked by chrome, character lines, body sculpting, trim, and an expansive greenhouse. Indeed, the rear side windows are especially long and contribute to this SUV’s massive persona. At the rear is an expansive lift gate, vertical combination lamps, and a spoiler.

Spacious and Upscale Cabin

Inside, the Denali provides standard seating for seven and available space for eight. The standard seating arrangement has two bucket seats up front, a pair of captain’s chairs in the second row, and a third-row split folding bench seat.

Massive is the cabin and every seating position supplies generous amounts of head space and legroom. The third row has the tightest space, but even that area has sufficient shoulder and hip room.

Up front is a pair of comfortable bucket seats with all driver and cabin controls where you expect to find them. Leather is generously found across the dashboard, surrounding the center console, on the door inlays, and covering the seats. Also present are wood grain accents and burnished aluminum trim; contrast stitching on the console as well as on the doors — collectively, these touches elevate this model.

Standard features are many and include three-zone climate control, a power tilt and telescopic steering column, power-adjustable pedals, as well as heated and ventilated front seats. The second row seats also have a heating option and include a power-release fold and tumble feature for ease of access to the third row.

Additional features standard with the Yukon XL includes keyless entry and push button start, a wireless charging port for mobile phones, and a 110-volt power outlet. On the entertainment side, this model has a 10-speaker, Bose Centerpoint audio system; HD radio; a GMC Intellilink telematics system with an 8-inch color display; and navigation. You’ll also find Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, OnStar, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.

Package upgrades allow customers to personalize their Denali as they see fit.

You have your choice of 22-inch wheels ($1,495), an Open Road package ($2,860) — composed of a power sunroof and a rear-seat entertainment system featuring screens for both the second- and third-row passengers — and heated outboard second-row seats ($395). With the bench seat in place, the captain’s chairs go away. Carefully consider whether you need an eighth seating position at such a loss of very comfortable individual seats.

Safety and Road Manners

On the safety front, the Yukon XL Denali comes with a suite of airbags, stability and traction control, front and rear park assist, rear cross traffic alert, lane keep assist, side blind zone alert with lane change alert, a rearview camera, and hill start assist. Also available is adaptive cruise control with front automatic braking ($995) and a head-up display ($425).

Take to the road and the big V8 zooms to highway speeds with authority. The 6.2-liter engine works in tandem with an eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling this vehicle to reach 60 mph from a dead stop in about six seconds.

This model has a firm ride and benefits from Magnetic Ride Control, a real-time damping system. An independent suspension is up front and to the rear is a five-line, solid axle suspension. The electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion arrangement provides effortless handling; the four-wheel disc brakes with vented front and rear rotors bring this three-ton conveyance to a certain stop.

Parting Thoughts

The Yukon XL as well as the Yukon appeal to a certain type of buyer. Both models provide a solid and dependable vehicle ideal for carrying large payloads and for towing. Indeed, if you have 8,000 pounds of camper, boat, or recreational vehicle to pull, then the big GMC can handle that.

Buyers who don’t need such a huge footprint as the Yukon models might consider the GMC Acadia and Acadia Denali instead. The all-new-for-2017 Acadia now offers a standard four-cylinder engine in addition to a 310-horsepower V6. It offers room for up to seven and comes with standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive.

Other models in this segment include the Toyota Land Cruiser, Ford Expedition, and the Nissan Armada. Only the Expedition offers an extended wheelbase version similar to the Yukon XL.

Substantial Luxe: 2016 Cadillac Escalade Platinum 4×4

July 5, 2016 by admin 10 Comments

Less bling, more substance for the grandest of all Cadillacs.

The Cadillac Escalade is as large as the notoriety that precedes it. This full-sized SUV was launched in 1999, following the Lincoln Navigator to the market by one year.

But it is the Cadillac model, not the Lincoln, which has dominated the segment, spawning extended wheelbase, truck, and hybrid versions along the way. These days, the truck and hybrid variants are gone, leaving the two remaining designs to comprise the product line.

2016 Cadillac Escalade Platinum

My test vehicle was a 2016 Cadillac Escalade Platinum 4WD, the top-of-the-line trim priced from $90,345 for the rear-wheel drive rendition or $92,945 for the four-wheel drive representation. Certainly, a more modest standard model can be had for a mere $73,965, but chances are you’ll find dealer lots crammed with other trims, including Luxury ($78,040) and Premium ($82,540) editions.

Choose the four-wheel drive version and you’ll add $2,600 to the base price. Add in another $3,000 if you prefer the extended wheelbase (ESV) model. Yes, it is possible to top $100,000 when all is said and done, however, my test model came in at just under $95,000.

Similarities and Differences

Cadillac released the fourth-generation Escalade in 2015. As always, this model is based on GM’s full-size pickup truck platform. The Escalade shares its mechanical underpinnings with the GMC Yukon/Yukon XL as well as with the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban SUVs.

One of the most important differences between the three model lines is that the Cadillac provides a 6.2-liter, V-8 engine while the Chevrolet and GMC are powered by a 5.3-liter, V-8. An important exception comes in the form of the Yukon XL Denali, itself powered by the larger V-8. Another difference is the transmission pairing — the smaller V-8 is mated to a 6-speed automatic; the larger V-8 is paired with an 8-speed automatic.

Other significant differences are evident in two areas — design and technology.

Indeed, the Cadillac Escalade features a striking frontal expression marked by an oversized, chrome-bedecked grille amplified by the latest version of the brand’s logotype. The grille flows into the hood, itself marked by distinct creases and sculpting. The headlamp assemblies are large, come with multiple stacked jewel-like lamps, and push up along the front end of the hood. A lower grille opening or air intake is offset by a pair of boomerang fog lamps. Together, the front lighting when lit provides a powerful over-the-top presentation demonstrating that this is no ordinary SUV.

For the profile, Cadillac took the traditional slab-sided expression and has made it pop. Gone are the garish chrome-clad side mirrors, replaced with more tasteful color-keyed mirrors with a black base and a slender chrome trim divider separating the two. Subtle upper and lower character lines are present; door, door handle, window, and roof rail trim are also covered with a chrome-like substance.

The biggest appeal, however, is in the wheels. The test model was outfitted with 22-inch chrome multi-featured wheels — in this case representing a nine double-spoke layout.

At the rear, you’ll find a massive liftgate, itself hemmed in by narrow, but very long combination lamps. Stretching three feet along the back side, the lighting look is imposing if not a bit overwhelming. The liftgate itself is split by a chrome bar embellished with the Cadillac logo. This model has a single exhaust port, hidden away underneath and located to the right of the full-size spare tire.

Room for Seven or Eight

Cadillac presents the Escalade with seven standard seats or eight if you substitute the middle captain’s chairs with a folding bench seat. The rear seat holds three and is a split-folding design. Switches located on the right rear wall of the cargo compartment manage the second and third rows by dropping, folding and in the case of the middle seats flipping same. Access to the third row is easy whether you use the power-fold features or not.

Slip behind the wheel of the 2016 Escalade and you’ll immediately be hit by a swirl of colors as both the instrument panel and the center console illuminate. This SUV’s instrument cluster features a 12.3-inch display, allowing drivers to choose one of two layouts supplying vehicle data with navigation, entertainment, and eye-popping 3-D vehicle imagery.

You can customize your driving position by adjusting the pedals and steering wheel as well as shifting your seat. The Platinum edition takes driver comfort to its highest level as it is equipped with 18-way power adjusted seats with three-way massaging. Covered in semi-aniline leather, the front seats are comfortable and supportive — not once did I feel fatigued.

The middle seats offer very good support, but not to the extent of the front bucket seats. Still, each seat comes with an inboard armrest and there is generous space between the two. The rear facing part of the center console supplies multiple controls including climate control, seat heating, as well as an auxiliary input port and DVD connectivity. My test model came with a pair of seat back displays for moving watching. A drop down display between the front seats extends that viewing to the third-row passengers. Cadillac provides a pair of Wi-Fi headphones for your listening pleasure.

The third-row provides room for three, although tall passengers may consider it a penalty box. Not so much for legroom — it is sufficient, but for the slightly raised flooring. For some folk, that means your knees may block your view. Two cup holders are located on the wall of the driver’s side of the vehicle; a third cup holder is on the right side.

Second-row passengers have in-door bottle holders and small storage compartments. The first-row passengers get the lion’s share of storage with two bottle holders each in both doors, two cup holders between the seats and a deep storage compartment under the armrest.

That storage compartment has a neat feature — a cooling box you fill with ice and stuff a half dozen drinks inside. The only drawback to this nifty container is that there is no drain plug — you’ll need to scoop out your ice. A better approach would be to freeze one of your water bottles or bring along some blue ice to keep everything chilled. In any case, there is a switch located at the base of the center console to activate the cooling feature.

Connectivity and Cadillac CUE

This model offers multiple connectivity points. At the base of the console secreted underneath a moving panel is a 12-volt outlet and two USB ports. Two more USB ports are found in the storage compartment near the cooling box. At the base of the rear center console is another 12-volt outlet along with a 115-volt outlet. The rear storage compartment has yet another 12-volt outlet.

Cadillac CUE…how do you do? CUE or Cadillac User Experience was first launched in 2013. These days, all Cadillac models are equipped with this infotainment interface, making Bluetooth connectivity, phone pairing, and a host of other features easy to use. The system is controlled by touch or hand swipes, by controls on the steering wheel, or through voice input. Sliding your finger across any of the controls manages same, including raising and lowering the volume. Step down the next two rows and the climate controls are operated in the same way.

But let’s head back to CUE: on either side of the volume bar is the activation key to mute the system as well as a home key. The home key serves up more than a dozen app-like features, including audio, phone, navigation, weather, camera, traffic, and OnStar. Speaking of OnStar, when I was trying to discover (unsuccessfully) the password to the Escalade’s included WiFi hotspot, I pushed the OnStar button. An attendant immediately answered, greeted me, and provided the password. I’m a fan of in-car connectivity and having access to the Internet while on the road is a welcome benefit.

One feature easy to overlook for Cadillac CUE is the “secret” storage compartment behind the face of the system. Touch the lower end of the unit and a door automatically lifts, providing room to hide your valuables. It includes a USB port surrounded by a blue light to connect your smartphone — an overhead light makes it possible to see around this otherwise very dark cavern.

On the Road: 2016 Cadillac Escalade Platinum

Take the Escalade on the road and you may feel as if you’re king of your dominion. The latest version is the most imposing of them all with its bold front fascia. Under the hood, the big V-8 gets the job done with ample power from start to highway speed. I’m not against engine boosting, but a normally aspirated V-8 pulls no punches and delivers no surprises. In other words, you get the amount of power you need without the attendant lag of a turbo or the added expense of a supercharger. Pairing this engine with an 8-speed automatic also improves efficiency, delivering upwards of 22 mpg on the highway.

One thing you’ll notice immediately with the Escalade is just how quiet this SUV is. Every body panel, nook, and cranny must have been touched by Cadillac engineers to deliver a serene cabin. You already get a soft ride and with the seat heating and cooling feature plus massaging at work, you’ll find the Escalade more comfortable than any high-end settee. Yes, you’ll sense some body roll as you tackle the twisty roads — that’s to be expected with any high-profile vehicle. On the straightaways this SUV is a beast, picking up speed at a rapid clip. That it tows up to 8,100 pounds (7,900 lbs. with AWD) is a bonus. It also stops firmly, but then I had no more than four people inside and I wasn’t towing anything.

Making a Case for the Escalade

When people come to me about a new vehicle, most have their minds already made up. All they’re looking for is validation. Usually, I share with them what I know about the vehicle and leave it at that.

I also like to talk about the value proposition — whether a car is worth it or not. This is a sticky area as no car should be considered an investment. Instead, you should purchase what you want and can afford. Clearly, the Cadillac Escalade targets people with a high net worth, individuals who probably make about $250,000 per year and for them it isn’t a matter of saving money, but of seeing and being seen.

In some ways, the Cadillac Escalade is a throwback to the days of large sedans such as the Fleetwood and the Eldorado. Both those models are long gone, but the spirit of each one is imbued within the Escalade and all its attendant delicious ostentatiousness, bling imagery, and cutting-edge tech features.

See Also — 2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali Redux

Ford Explorer Platinum Offers Lincoln Touches

June 17, 2016 by admin 18 Comments

Ford’s three-row midsize crossover delivers off-road capabilities.

Ford’s strength in utility vehicles is evident as nearly every model it offers is a hit. Even the quirky Ford Flex has an audience, people who prefer a more wagon-like experience and are not put off by its polarizing visage.

And then there is the Ford Explorer, a utility vehicle once offered as a traditional body-on-frame SUV, but now built exclusively as a crossover model. It hasn’t matched the sales strength the earlier model reached in the 1990s, then again there have never been quite the number of SUVs offered by Ford as there are now — five. Ford shows six models on its website, but the Transit Connect is more minivan-like than a utility vehicle. More models are on the way, keeping with an important auto trends of our time.

As before, the Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV. But it is one of three models offered by Ford in this segment — the five-passenger Edge and the six-passenger Flex are the other two. With room for up to seven, the Explorer offers the logical step up to the full-size, eight-passenger Expedition, the only model still based on a truck platform, sharing its mechanicals with the F-150 pickup truck. The fifth model is the Ford Escape, a compact SUV with room for five.

2016 Ford Explorer

Since its 2011 introduction, the current-generation Ford Explorer has been well received and has undergone trim level and equipment shuffling since. For 2016, the base 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine has been replaced by a slightly larger turbo displacing at 2.3-liters.

The other two engines are both V-6s and displace at 3.5 liters. One is naturally aspirated, the other offers the same EcoBoost or twin-turbocharged technology found in the four cylinder. Across the board, each engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting capabilities.

Another change for 2016 was the addition of a top-of-the-line Platinum series, a model dressed similar to a Lincoln product, with multi-contour front seats, real wood and aluminum appliqués, a dual-panel sunroof, a 500-watt Sony audio system, and 20-inch painted machine-faced aluminum wheels.

The Ford Explorer Platinum immediately followed a Lincoln MKX SUV in my fleet rotation and that may have been a huge mistake on the Ford Motor Company’s part. I found the Explorer’s interior more elegant than the Lincoln, especially with the dashboard covered in stitched leather. On the other hand, the Lincoln product had the more desirable of the two massaging features. Yes, even the Explorer Platinum will knead your back while driving and do likewise for the front passenger.

See Also — At a Glance: 2020 Ford Explorer

Five Trim Levels

Ford offers the 2016 Explorer with a sticker price of $31,050 for the base model, then follows with XLT ($33,400), Limited ($41,300), Sport ($43,500), and Platinum ($52,970) editions. All models come with the manufacturer’s SYNC infotainment system, LED tail lamps, aluminum or alloy wheels, a rear view camera, a rear window washer, and second- and third-row privacy glass.

Choose the XLT model and you obtain MyFord Touch as an option. This system utilizes Bluetooth wireless technology to transfer information between your smartphone and the vehicle.

The Limited edition brings in power-fold third-row seats, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, and fog lamps. You also secure keyless entry with push button start, a hands-free power lift gate, and a reverse sensing system.

The Sport edition adds flair to the model line and also has the larger turbo engine. This model is equipped with four-wheel drive, and includes a dual-tip exhaust system, and 20-inch machine-finished wheels.

Of course, manufacturers typically treat media folk such as yours truly to the top-end models. But not always — in 2014 four separate editions of the Jeep Grand Cherokee were served up, giving me an excellent opportunity to sample a wide variety of models. As a rule, I don’t automatically recommend top-end models. Typically, I encourage buyers to look at the mid-grade models and add whatever packages they want.

Robust Towing and Then Some

For the Platinum, Ford goes all out in what you can possibly receive. I mentioned most of the offerings earlier, but there are few other highlights worth amplifying.

For starters, the Explorer Platinum can pull up to 5,000 pounds. But only with a Class III trailer tow package. The package is standard at this level. You also receive a 110-volt outlet, a blind spot information system with cross traffic alert, a heated steering wheel, a power tilt and telescoping steering column, power-adjustable pedals with memory, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with cruise control.

There are a few options offered, even at this level. A second-row console ($150) is one option, as is second-row bucket seats ($695). My test model had both. You can also opt for various paint schemes such as ruby red metallic clear coat or white platinum metallic tri-coat paint. For the test model Ford kept things standard, delivering a “Blue Jeans” paint scheme that can pass for a police pursuit vehicle. At this level no other options are offered. Fully optioned, you’ll pay about $56,000; my test model came in at $54,670.

EcoBoost Power Sized Right

I’m glad Ford delivered an Explorer outfitted with the larger turbo engine. I found the 2.7-liter turbo in MKX sufficient, but the lag was also more apparent. I wonder how much “oomph” you achieve with the turbo four which delivers slightly less horsepower than the standard V-6, but also offers a 20 percent edge in torque. Torque kicks in once you are moving and is especially propitious for climbing hills and towing. Nevertheless, the compact engine provides just 3,000 pound of towing capacity compared to the 5,000 pounds both V-6 engines deliver.

The EcoBoost V-6 operates on the order of a V-8 engine with copious amounts of power delivered off the start and throughout the band curve. It is the most popular of the Ford EcoBoost engines, but it isn’t as thrifty as you might think. Indeed, by the time I hit 240 miles, the fuel warning light lit, telling me I had only 50 miles left before I ran out of gas. That means my fuel economy was somewhere in the 16 mpg range, not what you’d expect from a a V-6.

The Platinum and Limited series are equipped with a 4×4 system, unlike the available all-wheel drive found elsewhere. The difference here is the 4×4 system can handle a variety of off-road conditions, including sand, mud, rocks, and such. It may not be as rugged as you would find in a Jeep, but it is superior than the all-wheel drive systems common to the segment.

Kudos to Ford for finally fixing a distressing problem, namely the infotainment system. SYNC has been a competent operator since its 2008 inception in the Ford Focus, but the MyFord Touch system with its complicated touch screen wasn’t enjoyable. Indeed, the Ford system is one among several that are routinely criticized by consumers for its difficult use. The previous problem has been largely rectified by making the screen intuitive while including the still necessary knobs and switches to intervene. The directions given were accurate and clear, even as I chose to give “touch” inputs instead of the available voice controlled option.

Room for Six or Seven

As far as the interior room, the Explorer provides excellent room for four or five and adequate room for six or seven. The last row offers a two-seat placement, ideal for your youngsters, but not for adults. The seats sit side by side, so hip room is restricted. Leg room is also tight. The Explorer rides on a 112.6-inch platform compared with the 112 inches for the Edge. Adding another six inches between the wheels would make the third-row seat more usable for adults.

The nifty fold and tumble third row seat arrangement is a strong suit here. When activated, switches on the cargo department wall on the driver’s side cause the seats to fold forward or flip and fold into the wheel well. And even with the seat hidden, Ford did make room for a donut spare — no worrisome electronic tire inflator to mess with here.

Shopping Considerations

In all, the Ford Explorer offers a exceptionally competitive model in a crowd-pleasing segment. Nearly every manufacturer has a presence, so you’ll want to cross shop the Ford with the following conveyances: Nissan Pathfinder, Dodge Durango, Mazda CX-9, Honda Pilot, Chevrolet Traverse, Hyundai Santa Fe, GMC Acadia, Toyota Highlander, Kia Sorento, Volkswagen Atlas, and the Buick Enclave. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is yet another model, although this SUV offers room for only five.

2016 Ford Explorer Platinum 4×4

Sticker price from $52,970
Price as tested: $54,760
Seats 7 occupants
365 horsepower @ 5,500 RPM
350 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,000 RPM
92.5mm bore by 86.7mm stroke
Engine compression ratio: 10.0-to-1
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 112.6 inches
Length: 198.3 inches
Width: 78.9 inches
Height: 70 inches
Passenger volume: 150.3 cubic feet
Storage volume: 21/43.9/81.7 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds
EPA: 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway
Regular grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 18.6 gallons
Curb weight: From 4,890 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Moderate overlap front, side and roof strength: good. Small overlap front: marginal
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/6,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Chicago, Illinois

2016 Ford Explorer Platinum photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Lincoln MKX: Masseuse on the Go

June 15, 2016 by admin 5 Comments

Four utility vehicles drive the Lincoln brand, including the all-new MKX.

napa-roadside-assistance-kit

If the standout feature for an SUV is its nifty massaging capabilities, what does that tell you about the rest of the vehicle? Maybe not as much as you think, especially if your week-long obsession was with the 22-way power driver’s seat offering cooling and heating capabilities as well as a rubbing-down feature that might have you terminating your masseuse’s service.

But the Lincoln MKX is much more than that, a five-passenger midsize luxury SUV now in its second generation. As before, the MKX shares its mechanical underpinnings with the Ford Edge, but there are important differences here too, including in sheet metal, fascias, engine choices, and the interiors.

Here a Name, There a Name

What hasn’t changed is the vehicle naming convention as most Lincoln models persist with the three-letter nomenclature introduced in 2007. The first two letters of such models begin with MK, leaving the third letter to define the specific model. In this case, the “X” stands for crossover, although “C” and “T” are used for two other crossover models.

Happily, the Lincoln Navigator hasn’t undergone a naming transition and mostly likely won’t. And with the introduction of the 2017 Lincoln Continental this year — itself replacing the MKS — reverting to a traditional nomenclature across the Lincoln line seems likely.

No matter, the Lincoln MKX offers standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive, competing in a sphere dominated by the Lexus RX. Other models in this segment include the Cadillac XT5, Acura RDX, Audi Q5, Infiniti QX70, and the BMW X5.

2016 Lincoln MKX AWD Reserve

My test model was a 2016 Lincoln MKX AWD. The base price for a front-wheel drive model begins at $38,260. Choose all-wheel drive and your MKX will start at $40,755.

As tested, my Reserve model came with a $47,650 base price and topped out at $63,535. Lincoln doesn’t offer official trim levels, calling them “equipment groups” instead. Standard, Premiere and Reserve groups are offered; a special high-end Black Label package is also available.

Instead of the standard 3.7-liter, naturally aspired V-6 engine, the test model received the available 2.7-liter, turbocharged V-6 engine, an option that immediately adds $2,000 to your cost.

Reaching the final price point came through still more upgrades, including the special bronze fire metallic paint ($495), a cargo utility package ($395), climate package ($595), technology package ($1,720), driver assist package ($1,650), luxury package ($4,400), second-row inflatable seat belts ($250), 21-inch polished aluminum wheels ($1,300), and adaptive steering ($625). The 22-way power driver’s seat was yet another option, this one coming in at $1,500. All told, Lincoln added nearly $15,000 in options to a model that already presented a $7,500 premium over the standard all-wheel drive issue.

Exterior Highlights

The first-generation Lincoln MKX underwent a significant mid-product cycle update to give it a fresh look. But the visage was too polarizing for some, thus the designers reworked the current model to deliver a more relaxed, but elegant expression. The Lincoln split-wing grille represents the current design iteration, although that’s likely to change in a few years once again.

From stem to stern, the MKX has a polished countenance. Its front fascia offers a pleasant and modern display with LED accent lighting drawing attention. The lower grille opening is hemmed in by large embrasures housing the fog lamps. The hood offers multiple creases, seemingly connecting the front to the rest of the SUV.

The MKX’s profile is athletic with a sweeping roofline, a rising belt line, and body sculpting evident. Cladding surrounds the lower portion of the car at least in some models. Fashionable alloy wheels, huge wraparound rear combination lamps connected by a reflector light, spoiler treatments and embedded exhaust ports are present.

With the key fob on your person, the Lincoln senses your presence and the exterior lights come on. That makes for a nice safety and security touch, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar area. This model also provides hands-free access to the lift gate — perform a kicking motion underneath the rear bumper and the hatch disengages and slowly rises. That is, when it successfully detects your presence — unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

Interior Highlights

The Lincoln MKX is sized right, especially if you have five adults in mind. The layout is designed to optimize interior space with nearly 40 inches of rear legroom. Head, shoulder, and hip room is superior all around with very comfortable seats provided. Soft touch seats are standard on the base model with extra comfortable Bridge of Weir leather-trimmed seats offered elsewhere.

Throughout the interior, the cabin projects an open and airy feeling. Soft touch materials, leather, aluminum trim and touches of wood are present. The instrument panel is sensibly laid out with large, bright displays. There is nothing especially noteworthy here other than it is uncomplicated.

The center stack is the prize up front as it replaces a much more complicated system previously offered. SYNC 3 is here — the third and best generation of the automaker’s voice-activated technology system. Along with MyLincoln Touch, the system allows hands-free calling, music search and control, voice-controlled climate control, and available navigation.

Previous Lincoln systems were a catastrophe as there were no attendant buttons or knobs to override the infotainment system. Knobs and switches are now present and are sensibly placed. The navigation system works as promised and is relatively easy to comprehend. It took the automaker much longer than it should have to fix what many consumers said was a niggling problem, delivering a system that is now entirely usable.

As equipped, the 22-way power seats were simply awesome. At the same time, I doubt I used half the settings. I did discover the little button that activates the massage feature which then triggers the display screen to list the settings. When switched on, both the driver and front passenger are treated to various pressings and rollings, as if small, but firm hands are at work. Because it was hot outside, I also activated the seat cooling feature — and what a fine fusion of kneading and ventilating it offered!

One drawback of having a technologically laden vehicle as was this Lincoln, was not having enough time to try every single feature, or at least for any suitable length of time. I’ve used “active park assist” in other Ford/Lincoln vehicles, finding it does a stellar job of parallel parking. Since its introduction, the system has been upgraded as it now includes perpendicular park assist.

The various package options offered were not always easy to decipher or at least determine which line item belongs to what package. In any case, the test model offered several crowd-pleasing features, including a vista roof with a power sunshade, heated side mirrors, leather upgrade, voice-activated navigation, and much more.

Something new Lincoln is pushing is its Black Label plan, what combines concierge services with a designer collection of proprietary materials. The service features personalized attention, including a mobile showroom, in-home delivery, complimentary car washes and detailing, even a culinary collection of recommended restaurants. Various special themes are offered and are not available elsewhere. Exclusivity meets culture in the MKX design of your choice.

Powertrain Choices and the Drive

Two engine choices are available with the 2016 MKX. A 3.7-liter, V-6 makes 303 horsepower and 278 foot-pounds of torque. The available turbocharged (EcoBoost) V-6 makes 335 horsepower and 380 foot-pounds of torque. To get the optimum performance ratings, you’ll need to fuel your MKX with premium grade gasoline.

Both engines come paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting capabilities. That means there are steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters present, allowing you to move up and down the gear range as you please.

With the smaller, but more powerful engine under the hood, I expected to tap all the energy this boosted motor had to offer. I wasn’t disappointed.

What I did notice was plenty of turbo lag even in this design where the twin boosters are attached to the exhaust manifold. Not all twinned systems are the same — for instance, BMW places its turbos in the “V” section of the block, rather than on the outboard sides of the cylinder banks notes WardsAuto. Apparently, that layout mitigates lag while optimizing performance.

Once full power kicks in, there is no stopping the MKX. Get past the initial hesitation and this SUV roars down the road. I’m glad that all-wheel drive was present in the test model — yes, you can order the turbo with the front-wheel drive version. Torque steer, anyone?

Lincoln calls it “intelligent all-wheel drive,” what automatically redirects power to the wheel with the best traction. Along with the available adaptive steering system, drivers should find a more connected feel to the road when traveling at higher speeds. You can also adjust a dial to go from normal to comfort and on to sport steering modes, in an effort to find the feedback setting right for you.

Another available feature (included with the test model) was Lincoln Drive Control with continuously controlled damping. It oversees the SUV’s suspension system by controlling body movement, steering, and braking. Put all these features together and you have a composed SUV ride at the ready.

Safety Features Galore

The 2016 MKX achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), a level reached previously in 2013. The IIHS says this model achieved top scores in all five crashworthiness categories. It also scored a “superior” rating for the optional front crash prevention equipment.

All models are equipped with a rearview camera, a suite of airbags, and an automatic post-crash alert system. The inflatable rear outboard safety belts are unique amongst luxury vehicles and were offered in the test model. My wife buckled in with one in place, not knowing what protection it served until I provided an explanation.

Concluding Thoughts

Customers are taking to the Lincoln MKX in a big way. Through the first five months of 2016, sales are up 85.3 percent, essentially accounting for the entire increase in Lincoln sales this year. Indeed, overall sales for the brand are up 14.7 percent. Meanwhile, rival Cadillac sales are off by 12.5 percent for the same period. Both marques are in the midst of a revival.

Price creep can provide a shocker for any model and the MKX is no exception. But I must warn you that once you drive a more opulent model, it is difficult to settle for a simpler version. Dealer inventories likely skew to better-equipped vehicles, so if you want a certain model, particularly one with Black Label trim, then custom ordering means waiting perhaps weeks for your delivery.

2016 Lincoln MKX AWD

Sticker price from $47,650
Price as tested: $63,535
Seats 5 occupants
2.7-liter 24-valve turbocharged V-6 gasoline engine
335 horsepower @ 5,500 RPM
380 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,000 RPM
3.27 inches bore by 3.27 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 10.0-to-1
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
Length: 190 inches
Width: 76.1 inches
Height: 66.2 inches
Passenger volume: 100.1 cubic feet
Storage volume: 37.2/68.8 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds
EPA: 17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway
Premium grade gasoline recommended
Fuel tank: 18 gallons
Curb weight: From 4,387 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick+
Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Oakville, Ontario Canada

2016 Lincoln MKX photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Buick Envision Debuts With No Fanfare

June 8, 2016 by admin 2 Comments

The made-in-China Envision is now on sale in North America.

The Buick Envision has arrived, the third crossover in this tri-shield brand’s portfolio. Only you wouldn’t know that without closely examining US auto sales data for May 2016.

Tucked within that information are the 89 Envisions sold in the US last month. As promised, Buick said the Envision would go on sale in the second quarter of 2016. However, instead of the customary fanfare accompanied by TV ads and a media push, the Envision has quietly gone on sale.

Political Posturing and a New Crossover

Why the quiet debut? Buick told Automotive News the Envisions now on sale are high-trim level 2016s. In a few months, the full range of Envisions will be made available and sold as 2017s. Its an unusual approach, but it may signal an internal decision to avoid political theater.

Indeed, the Buick Envision is made in China and it might receive unwanted attention from the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump. Trump has harshly criticized US manufacturers for shipping jobs overseas or importing products that could just as easily be built by Americans.

Just last week Trump criticized the PGA Tour for its decision to move a tournament from the US to Mexico. The WGC-Cadillac Championship has been played at the Trump National Doral near Miami and will shift to Mexico beginning in 2017. Cadillac’s sponsorship was ending and will be replaced by Grupo Salinas, an assemblage of media companies.

NAFTA and Imports

Notably, Cadillac and Buick are GM brands and just this week Trump blasted the automaker for its investment in Mexico. GM now joins the Ford Motor Company, Carrier and Nabisco, as companies the presidential candidate has attacked.

While campaigning, Trump has suggested a 35 percent tariff on vehicles imported from Mexico. Of course, that recommendation ignores NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement), a trilateral agreement the US made with Canada and Mexico to do away with numerous tariffs.

(See Also — Swift Sportback: 2018 Buick Regal GS)

2016/2017 Buick Envision

Political posturing aside, the Chinese-made Buick Envision fills an important hole in the Buick product line. Prior to its arrival, Buick offered the subcompact Encore and midsize Enclave crossovers. The Envision provides a natural step in the product line for Buick customers.

Visit the Buick.com website today and you’ll find no information about the Envision on its home page. Click the “All Vehicles” tab and a model list is shown. Cast your eyes on the “SUVs” category and you’ll spot the 2016 Envision tucked neatly between the 2016 Encore and the 2016 Enclave.

You’ll also spot a sky-high price for the Envision, starting at $42,070 or $3,005 higher than the Enclave. Click the “explore” tab, then “view specs” and you’ll find two trim levels featured. Both are fully-loaded all-wheel drive versions, the only models marketed in the 2016 model year.

Head back to the “all vehicles” tab and you’ll spot the 2017 Envision and a note explaining its fall 2016 availability. Click “explore” and a list of five trim levels will appear. The base price for the standard Envision is $34,990 with Preferred ($36,795), Essence ($38,645), Premium ($43,245), and Premium II ($45,885) models offered.

Front-wheel drive and a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine are standard. All-wheel drive or active twin-clutch all-wheel drive are available. A turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine is offered with the two top trims only.

The Buick Product Line

Buick’s model line is expanding and they’re using cars built in Michigan, Ontario, Kanas, and China to draw customers to the tri-shield brand. It is doubtful whether most customers care where their cars are built.

And as for American jobs, dealer and service level positions are keeping people employed and tax coffers are replenished no matter where the new car was manufactured.

Recent News — 2017 Nissan GT-R Premium: $109,990

Premium, Full-size SUV: 2016 GMC Yukon

February 27, 2016 by admin 6 Comments

Large SUVs are back or at least consumer interest in them continues to rise as fuel prices fall.

The GMC brand is well positioned to respond to consumers’ changing car-buying habits. Nourished chiefly by lower fuel prices, GMC sales increased by 11.3 percent in 2015, nearly double the 5.7 percent pace for the entire auto industry.

Those sales have come as motorists shift their purchase decisions away from cars to trucks and SUVs, the latter two categories the only vehicle types GMC sells. Although GMC is essentially a premium version of Chevrolet Trucks, customers are not especially put off by the correspondingly higher prices. In fact, the brand’s top-end Denali line continues to attract buyers for this North American-only marque.

Speaking of Denali — the apex of the GMC brand — nearly every press fleet model that comes my way is decorated in Denali trim. Yes, this reality tends to skew my reviews to models that are well appointed, leaving out other trim levels worth considering. Indeed, the latest of the test lot was a 2016 GMC Yukon Denali, the standard wheelbase version of this full-size SUV. It was preceded by a 2016 Yukon XL Denali late last year, an extended wheelbase model with an extra 14 inches between the wheels and 20 inches overall.

2016 GMC Yukon

The 2016 GMC Yukon is priced from $48,315 for the base 4×2 SLE model. Add $3,000 to any trim level for a 4×4 version. GMC prices the SLT edition from $57,000, then jumps to $65,325 for the Yukon Denali. Add a $1,195 destination charge to reach your true base price.

GMC offers two engine choices with the 2016 Yukon. A 5.3-liter, V-8 making 355 horsepower and 383 foot-pounds of torque is standard and comes paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Also available and standard with the Denali trim is a 6.2-liter, V-8 making 403 horsepower and 417 foot-pounds of torque. This engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The Yukon Denali takes an ordinary slab-sided, truck-based SUV and embellishes it with chrome or chrome-like trim. Based on the same platform underpinning GM’s full-size pickup truck line — Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra — the Yukon offers a similarly imposing presentation and comes in about a half-step below the Cadillac Escalade in overall refinement and just ahead of the Chevrolet Tahoe (extended wheelbase models are marketed as the Chevrolet Suburban).

Chrome: Here a Little, There a Little

Think “Denali” and you’ll find chrome nearly everywhere — on the grille, surrounding the front embrasures, across the roof rack, trimming the windows, and in other places, including the wheels, step rails, side trim, and to the rear.

All Denali models are outfitted with HID projector automatic headlamps, LED daytime running lights, front fog lamps, and rain sensing wipers. Further, you get power-heated side mirrors with embedded turn signal indicators, 20-inch ultra bright machined alloy wheels, a 17-inch steel spare wheel, and a hands-free tailgate. The test model added 22-inch aluminum wheels with painted inserts ($1,995) and a Crimson Red tricoat patina ($495).

Inside, seating is for eight in the Denali or for seven if the center seat arrangement is replaced with a pair of captain’s chairs as found in the test model. Choose the SLE or SLT editions, and the Yukon offers seating for up to nine.

Keyless Entry and Beyond

Keyless entry provides access to the Yukon’s interior and push button start gets you moving. The Yukon Denali comes extremely well equipped, offering remote vehicle start, power accessories, a power tilt and telescopic steering column, power adjustable pedals, a heated steering wheel, tri-zone climate control, a 110-volt outlet, and power-operated seats. Notably, those seats include power releasing second-row seats and a third-row, 60-40 power split-folding bench seat.

All Denali models come with an 8-inch color touch screen with navigation and a GMC IntelliLink telematics system. New for 2016 is Apple CarPlay, compatible with many smartphones. Connect with your smartphone and the color display becomes an extension of that same phone. The system is easy to use and helps reduce distractibility.

Close your eyes (not if you’re driving!) and the Yukon Denali may lull you to sleep. With the audio system and every other electronic gadget turned off, you’ll soon appreciate the relative quietness of the big SUV, with little more than a murmuration detected, especially when idling. Generous use of sound deadening materials; substantial, cushy front seats; and a soft ride are among this SUV’s more appealing comfort factors. This SUV was built with your contentment in mind and it succeeds in that endeavor.

Turn on the audio system and you have symphony-like entertainment at the ready, courtesy of a 10-speaker Bose audio system with surround sound. A $2,760 Open Road Package brings in a power sunroof, a rear entertainment system, and extends your satellite radio trial from three months to one year.

Center Captain’s Chairs

If you want an SUV the size of a GMC Yukon and seven seat placements is more than enough, I strongly suggest swapping out the middle bench seat for the two captain’s chairs. The middle chairs are nearly as comfortable as what’s up front, offering excellent support for the shoulders, back, hip, and thigh.

You also get a pair of folding arm rests and you’ll enjoy excellent leg room. Besides, with the captain’s chairs present the passenger sitting in the middle position of the third row is the big winner here with unlimited room to stretch out her legs.

Performance and Handling

As previously mentioned, the Yukon Denali gets the larger of the two V-8 engines, delivering optimum power from the moment you first press down on the accelerator as well as when traveling up and down the power curve. Steering is light to the touch with handling uninvolved, yet ideal for making tight turns. Body roll, common to high-profile vehicles is noticeable when taking the twisties. Also, you may find yourself holding tight to the steering wheel when crossing a bridge as side winds buffet the SUV — a common experience with any SUV, not just the Yukon Denali.

Pulling upwards of 8,500 pounds is another bonus feature, plus more than 1,500 pounds of payload. The power boost translates into a one mpg drop in fuel economy, an inconsequential number, especially these days.

Another option for GMC fans is the Acadia, a crossover sport utility vehicle. The 2016 edition is the last for this first-generation model and offers room for seven. Wait a few months and the all-new, second-generation 2017 Acadia hits the market, coming in slightly smaller and up to 700 pounds lighter than the outgoing SUV. GMC began the redesign of the Acadia when fuel prices were still sky high — with just under seven inches removed between the wheels and just over seven inches overall.

Safety Considerations

Sheer size is one of the top safety attributes for any large SUV. While the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has not rated this model, it offers a suite of airbags including the only front center airbag. The usual stability and traction control systems, electronic brake-force distribution, hill-start assist, and brake assist are also present.

Driver-assist technologies can also be had and are standard on the Denali. These features include side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, forward collision alert, and adaptive cruise control with front automatic braking. Front and rear park assist, lane keep assist, automatic headlamps, and a safety alert seat are also standard.

GMC Yukon and Competitors

Even so, me thinks that people whose eyes are set on the Yukon or Yukon XL will want nothing less than the largest and most upscale of GMC products. In that case, you may hardly consider the competitors with the Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia, and the Nissan Armada named among them. Without question, include the Lincoln Navigator for good measure.

2015 GMC Yukon XL 2WD

Sticker price from $68,045
Price as tested: from $74,825
Seats 7 to 9 occupants
6.2-liter 16-valve V-8 gasoline engine
420 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
460 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,100 rpm
4.06 inches bore by 3.62 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 11.5-to-1
8-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 116 inches
Length: 203.9 inches
Width: 80.5 inches
Height: 74.4 inches
Passenger volume: 122.4 cubic feet
Storage volume: 39.3/76,7/121.1 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 8,500 pounds
EPA: 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway
Regular grade gasoline recommended
Fuel tank: 31.5 gallons
Curb weight: 6,009 pounds
IIHS safety rating: NR
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 6 years/100,000 miles
Vehicle assembly: Arlington, Texas

Diesel Added: Range Rover Sport

February 10, 2016 by admin 2 Comments

2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE Td6.

Are diesels better than gasoline engines? A significant segment of the consumer market thinks so, especially in Europe, where such engines compose nearly half the vehicles purchased.

In the US, diesels have had difficulty gaining acceptance, with heavy-duty pickup trucks and German luxury cars among those offering them. But with Audi currently snagged in the Volkswagen diesel scandal mess, a negative light has been cast on these engines, with some insisting that they’re far dirtier than what manufacturers say they are.

Fortunately, not all manufacturers are being dissuaded by such negativity. Chevrolet now supplies a turbo diesel for its popular midsize pickup trucks, Nissan recently rolled out a Cummins diesel for its all-new Titan XD full-size pickup, and Jaguar Land Rover is shipping its own diesel-powered models across the pond. In any case, every engine (diesel and gasoline) must pass more rigorous EPA oversight, so such concerns should simply be dismissed.

One such engine found its way under the hood of a 2016 Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE Td6 model. The “td” appellation stands for “turbo-diesel” and the “6” represents the number of cylinders utilized. Specifically, what you have here is a 3.0-liter, turbo-diesel V-6 engine making 254 horsepower and a robust 443 foot-pounds of torque. The engine is also available in the large Range Rover HSE model. An 8-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels.

The timely introduction of the turbo-diesel demonstrates resolve on Jaguar Land Rover’s part to move forward regardless of the problems of its competitors. JLR is a minuscule entity when compared to the Volkswagen Group, although as part of the Tata Group it has considerable resources on hand.

Lower gas prices may have some people thinking less about fuel economy, but for those that put a premium on efficiency, the turbo-diesel should please them.

That’s due chiefly to a fuel economy rating of 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for a 32 percent improvement over the comparable gasoline engine. Yes, diesel fuel comes at a premium price, but there is another factor to consider here: maintenance is simpler and diesel engines last longer. Place those two facts under the hood and you have a compelling reason for considering the Range Rover Sport. In any case, diesel fuel prices are now lower than premium gasoline in most areas, so don’t allow cost to deter you.

Notably, the diesel-equipped Sport model is no laggard on the road, traveling from 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds or just two-tenths of a second slower than the equivalent gas-powered model. The all-important fuel range is now up to 658 miles.

Now in its third model year, the current iteration of the Range Rover Sport continues to impress. Although this model is most certainly an SUV, it behaves very much like a driver’s car with involved steering and precise handling at the ready. What it doesn’t have is the attendant diesel clatter, what typically is more pronounced on cold days or in just the type of weather I experienced for much of the week I had it.

Only during hard acceleration, or if you’re standing outside of the SUV as it idles will you hear the unmistakable engine murmur. I considered it more of a reassurance than an annoyance — reassuring as I knew that improved fuel efficiency and vigorous torque awaited me.

Stomp the accelerator and the diesel-powered Range Rover seems slightly slower than its gas-powered counterpart, but that sluggishness quickly dissipates as the turbo spools and full power is at the ready. Indeed, had I squared this model off with the equivalent gas-powered version, I imagine that it would have immediately fallen behind, before closing the gap significantly before losing by a whisker.

Horsepower and torque are synonymous, the latter providing passing power or the second hit of energy you experience when zooming down the highway. In the Range Rover Sport it doesn’t provide an additional towing benefit, as all models have a 7,716-pound towing capacity.

Customarily, when I present a model review, performance is listed toward the end, not at the beginning. But the story here is the turbo-diesel and all the acclaim it deserves. Nevertheless, we’ll take a closer look at the model at hand, inside and out.

Range Rovers offer a commanding presence and are the cream on top of the Land Rover pie. Those models not wearing the secondary Range Rover models are in the more mainstream “Discovery” series, but the platforms, powertrains and other essential components are the same. Consider your Discovery line the equivalent of your play clothes and Range Rover as your formal accouterment.

Regardless, what you have here is a solid mass of SUV usefulness, a polished model with a mien suitable for your country club visits. The front fascia is marked by the narrowest of an upper grille with wraparound headlamps flanking same. The lower grille opening is much larger and is accented with a skid plate. At the far corners of the bumper are large embrasures housing the fog lamps. A clamshell hood and a tall windshield complete the frontal presentation.

From the sides, the Range Rover Sport is marked by a large greenhouse with tall pillars. A powerful belt line, body sculpting, and character lines are present along this SUV’s profile. Large wheel wheels, alloy wheels, side vents and rocker panel trim round out the look. The Sport’s rear fascia has oversized, wraparound combination lamps, a prodigious spoiler, dual exhaust ports, and a skid plate.

Inside, space is for five and it is doubtful you’ll find a roomier SUV in this segment. Oversized front bucket seats and a plush 40-20-40 bench seat is in the second row (a 60-40 seat is optional). Land Rover could have stuck in a third row, but wisely chose not to. That would have cost nearly every inch of this 27.7 cubic foot storage compartment

As elegant as the Range Rover Sport is, Land Rover went with a fairly simple or straightforward interior, marked by an instrument panel featuring a two-cowl speedometer and tachometer display. In the center of it all is a digital driver’s information center with the expected readouts.

It seems as if leather is everywhere — wrapping the thick steering column surrounding the instrument panel, covering the dash, on door inlays, storage compartments and, of course, across the seats. Aluminum trim and wood embellishments are also present.

The center stack is orderly and uncluttered, amplified by a large color display followed by large knobs for the audio system. Splitting the front seats is the transmission stick and two cup holders as well as the four-wheel drive controller and the attendant switches. Activate the controller and you’re ready to take on most any on- or off-road sojourn — ice, rain, snow, sand, mud, rocks — you name it. Most people who buy Range Rovers aren’t about to venture off road, but just having the security you can is most assured.

If you’re wondering what this model will cost you, it comes in at a base $71,450 price. As is common to my test models, this one offers more than $12,000 in upgrades, bringing its final price to $84,610, including destination charge.

A front climate comfort and visibility package added $2,620, bringing in 16-way power front seats, a heated steering wheel, adaptive Xenon headlights, blind spot monitoring, a vehicle sensing system and rear traffic alert.

For $2,900 you get the driver assistance package, what adds lane departure warning and traffic sign recognition — drive past any speed limit sign and that number registers on the instrument panel. You also get parking assist, a head-up display and an all-around camera. A $1,750 extra duty package, a $900 tow package, an 825-watt Meridian audio system ($1,850) and adaptive cruise control with queue assist $1,295) were among the other options present.

If the add-ons seem a bit over the top, Range Rover may simply be more than what you can afford. Fortunately, the Land Rover line begins with SUVs priced from under $40,000 and that means something that might be otherwise unattainable can be had within the range of first-time luxury vehicle buyers.

2016 Range Rover Sport HSE Td6

Sticker price from $71,450
Price as tested: $84,610
Seats 5 occupants
3.0-liter 24-valve supercharged V-6 diesel engine
254 horsepower @ 4,000 RPM
443 foot-pounds of torque @ 2,000 RPM
3.31 inches bore by 3.54 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 16.1-to-1
8-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 115.1 inches
Length: 191.2 inches
Width: 81.6 inches
Height: 70.1 inches
Passenger volume: NR
Storage volume: 27.7 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 7,716 pounds
EPA: 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway
Diesel fuel
Fuel tank: 27.7 gallons
Curb weight: From 4,727 to 5,148 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Not rated
Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 6 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Solihull, United Kingdom

See Also — Miata and Me: Not Quite a Love Story

Escalade Light: GMC Yukon XL Denali

December 16, 2015 by admin 1 Comment

This week, I learned it was possible to have multiple Cadillac Escalade moments behind the wheel of the GMC Yukon XL Denali. That reality shouldn’t surprise too many people as the Escalade ESV and the Yukon XL share the same platform and dimensions.

Choosing the Denali line when shopping GMC brings in a level of bling and comfort rivaling the Cadillac and does so for a lower cost. Still, when all is said and done the base price of your full-size Denali tops $70,000 and ultimately finishes somewhere below $80,000 when every last one of your favorite extras are added. Yet, that’s a price point of $5,000 to $15,000 below the deliciously ostentatious Escalade.

The Yukon XL’s arrival at my home occurred just prior to the release of an Automotive News report explaining that Cadillac wants to distance itself from the Escalade even as it acknowledges that its popular and profitable SUV is keeping the brand afloat. Though the report stated that Cadillac is aspiring to become a more European-centric brand, GMC is unashamedly holding fast to its American bigness and blingness — thank you very much.

Importantly, who really gives much thought about fuel prices when the cost for a gallon of regular gasoline is below $2 as of publication? Sure, you’ll pay more than $60 for fill ups thanks to the GMC’s 31.5-gallon fuel tank, but that’s less than half the cost of topping off when prices were north of $4 per gallon as they were in early 2011. Certainly, the current gas prices are most likely temporary, but American consumers live in the moment and it is at this stage in the car shopping game where GMC massiveness is simply de rigueur.

Measuring more than 19 feet from stem to stern and 80 inches wide by 74 inches tall, the imposing Yukon XL is amplified by chrome-like touches surrounding its massive beehive grille, its front fascia embrasures, on its roof rails, and surrounding the windows. That chrome touch also extends to its profile trim, the door steps and on to the lift gate. Throw in a set of ultra bright machine alloy 20- or 22-inch wheels and the dazzling embellishments are complete.

Inside, the Yukon XL offers no compromise room for eight. Few SUVs can make that claim with one model shortchanging legroom for third-row passengers and another limiting head, shoulder, and hip room. Furthermore, the XL offers nearly 40 cubic feet of standard storage space or enough room to pack a week’s worth of vacation items for your large family. Tie downs, a 12-volt outlet and an open storage compartment are also present.

Likewise, what doesn’t fit inside can be placed on top or towed behind — this model offers approximately four tons of towing capacity.

Slip behind the wheel of the Yukon XL Denali and you gain a generously apportioned and plush power-operated bucket seat with all driver and cabin controls smoothly laid out. Leather seems nearly everywhere — across the dashboard, around the center console, on door inlays, and across the seats. Wood grain touches and burnished aluminum trim is also present; contrast stitching up and down the console and on the doors gives this model added pop. That doesn’t mean plastic isn’t found, it is and in abundance in the rear compartment.

The Denali offers a near embarrassment of riches, including tri-zone climate control, a power tilt and telescopic steering column, power-adjustable pedals, and heated and cooled front seats. The second row seats are also heated and include a power-release fold and tumble feature, providing ease of access to the third row seat. Ah, an Escalade moment.

The seat system was my favorite feature for the Denali. I’ve included pictures for your inspection, but they don’t tell the entire story. That expanded story includes my personal aggravation with some seats in other SUVs, what usually makes it a struggle to access the rear seat or to fold all seats flat — often both challenges are found.

Not so with the GMC — the seats flip, move and fold flat with a touch of a switch or two getting this process going. Indeed, raise the power lift gate and you’ll find a four-switch panel at the ready on the passenger side of the vehicle. Touch the switch closest to the front and the left section of the middle 60-40 seat folds forward. Touch the button again and that same seat tumbles forward. Likewise, the second switch provides the same benefit to the right portion of the seat. However, you can only reverse the process manually.

The third and fourth switches manage each section of the third-row seat. Both seats fall flat and will rise again by pressing the switch in the opposite direction. One more thing — the rear seat passengers have access to three cup holders — two are placed on the sidewall on the driver’s side; the third is located on the wall on the passenger’s side.

Other Yukon features include keyless entry, push button start, wireless charging for mobile phones, and a 110-volt power outlet. This model also comes with a 10-speaker, Bose Centerpoint audio system; HD radio; a telematics system with an 8-inch color display; and navigation. Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, OnStar, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot are also included. The GMC IntelliLink telematics system is not Cadillac CUE, but I like GMC’s layout better.

GMC also equipped the Denali with a few packages, including the 22-inch wheels ($1,495), an Open Road package ($2,860) — what brings in a power sunroof and a rear seat entertainment system featuring screens for both the second- and third-row passengers, and the heated outboard second-row seats ($395). That three-place bench seat replaces the standard captain’s chairs and supplies the eighth seating position.

Safety features are in abundance too — every Yukon XL Denali offers a suite of airbags, stability and traction control, front and rear park assist, rear cross traffic alert, lane keep assist, side blind zone alert with lane change alert, a rear vision camera, and hill start assist. Adaptive cruise control with front automatic braking ($995) and a head-up display ($425) are also available.

GMC supplies two engine choices for the Yukon XL: a 5.3-liter, V-8 and a 6.2-liter, V-8. Both are gasoline engines — no diesel is currently available in this segment. The smaller engine comes paired with a 6-speed automatic; the larger engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic and is a Denali standard.

The test model was supplied with the 6.2-liter, an engine or one of its variations found in other recent drivers, including under the hood of the Corvette as well as available in the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. With 420 horsepower at the ready, this 16-valve motor should have the power to move this fully loaded SUV and tow it at the same time. I say “should” for the simple reason I didn’t tow with it, nor did I fill it with eight people. Simple math reveals that an 18 percent boost in power is noticeable in the larger engine.

Driving the Yukon XL Denali means you’re commanding attention, both for its sheer girth as well as for its command seating position. Extra large wheels and about 10 inches of ground clearance make a difference too.

On the road, this SUV zooms to highway speeds in under six seconds — of course, that’s with a light load. Yet, even when laden with a heavy burden, this SUV moves fast. The transmission shifts quickly and seamlessly through all eight forward gears — too bad, there is no sport mode available. But then we’re dealing with a steering column-mounted shifter.

The GMC rides firm and has the benefit of magnetic ride control shocks, part of a real-time damping system. Up front is independent suspension and at the rear is a five-line, solid axle suspension. The electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion arrangement makes handling a non effort; four-wheel disc brakes with vented front and rear rotors brings it all to a firm stop. Just like the Escalade.

Opting for the Denali model means investing an extra $10,000 in this SUV. That’s still at least $10,000 less than the Cadillac Escalade, but the Denali may be a more palatial model than what you need or want. That investment goes beyond its “blingness” too, as it brings in higher end materials and technologies that would cost you extra if ordered separately, if available at all.

See Also — Snazzy SUV: 2016 Mazda CX-5

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4WD

Sticker price from $70,745
Price as tested: $76,600
Seats 8
6.2-liter inline V-8 gasoline engine
420 horsepower @ 5,600 RPM
460 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,100 RPM
4.06 inches bore by 3.62 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 11.5-to-1
8-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 130 inches
Length: 224.3 inches
Width: 80.5 inches
Height: 74.4 inches
Passenger volume: 122.4 cubic feet
Storage volume: 39.3/76.7/121.1 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 7,900 to 8,100 pounds
EPA: 14 mpg city, 20 mpg highway
Premium grade gasoline recommended
Fuel tank: 31.5 gallons
Curb weight: From 5,775 to 6,009 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Not tested
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 6 years/100,000 miles
Vehicle assembly: Arlington, Texas