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Refreshed 2017 Nissan Pathfinder Excels

December 30, 2016 by admin 14 Comments

Nissan’s roomy midsize Pathfinder receives numerous improvements.

2017 Nissan Pathfinder
2017 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 4×4.

The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder has been refreshed, the first significant change since the current-generation model debuted in 2013. More forceful styling, enhanced safety and technology features, and an updated engine are among the changes evident in this three-row, midsize crossover SUV offering room for seven.

The Pathfinder updates are both well-timed and significant as consumers continue to shift their purchase decisions away from cars to SUVs and trucks. Indeed, the shift has been so significant that the compact Rogue SUV is now Nissan’s best-selling model, displacing the midsize Altima sedan.

Strong Competition; Four Trims to Consider

As for the Pathfinder, the changes help Nissan remain relevant in a segment where the Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Dodge Durango, Honda Pilot, Chevrolet Traverse, Kia Sorento, Mazda CX-9, Buick Enclave, Hyundai Santa Fe, and the GMC Acadia vie for customers. Yes, customers have so many choices — manufacturers, including Nissan, must keep these vehicles fresh or risk losing customers.

The 2017 Pathfinder is available in S ($30,290), SV ($32,980), SL ($36,100), and Platinum ($42,070) grades or trims. Add $940 for destination. Upgrade to a 4×4 and you’ll pay $1,690 more.

2017 Nissan Pathfinder

Exterior Changes

Nissan fans, particularly Pathfinder followers, will immediately take note of the many changes made to the 2017 model. It starts with a striking front fascia marked by LED boomerang headlights along with LED daytime running lights. The grille now reflects Nissan’s recognizable V-motion design. Other changes in the frontal presentation include a new hood and front bumper, giving this model a stronger expression and a wider stance.

Changes to the rear fascia include updated tail lights and bumper design, offering more detail and a sharper look. Also new are front chin and rear roof spoilers, rear tire deflectors, and suspension fairing. Body-colored bumpers along with integrated side mirror turn signals are also present. Two new exterior color choices are added, bringing the total choices to nine.

Updated Powertrain

Under the hood, the 3.5-liter V6 was reworked with a direct injection gasoline system added, increasing horsepower from 260 to 284 and torque from 240 to 259 pound-feet. The continuously variable automatic transmission was also updated with in-house D-Step Logic Control incorporated, what simulates shift points and enables more natural RPM progression. A similar arrangement is found in the Nissan Maxima flagship sedan.

Despite the increased power, fuel economy is unchanged with the front-wheel drive model delivering 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Similarly, the 4×4 makes 19/26 mpg city/highway, same as before. Notably, the 2017 Pathfinder benefits from a 20-percent increase in towing capacity. When properly equipped, this model now tows up to 6,000 pounds.

2017 Nissan Pathfinder

New Safety Features and Tech Changes

For 2017, Nissan rolls out several available driver-assist features, including an around view monitor with moving object detection, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, and forward emergency braking. The updates are supplemented by an advanced drive-assist display offering additional infotainment and driver assistance information on the screen.

As for tech features, an 8-inch color touch-screen monitor is standard across the model line. The NissanConnect Navigation system now includes three years of SiriusXM Traffic service and available NissanConnect Services for six months. This feature is included on the Platinum level.

Other changes for 2017 include an updated suspension for improved driving dynamics and stiffer front and rear springs as well as rebound springs added to the front struts. These changes make for improved roll, pitch, and bounce motion control versus the 2016 model.

2017 Nissan Pathfinder

Roomy Interior With Available Premium Features

Most press fleet models distributed are top-end grade versions — my test Pathfinder Platinum was no exception. Where lower-grade models are trimmed with cloth seats, this one comes with leather-appointed seats with climate-controlled front seats. Moreover, you’ll find wood-tone interior trim, a power tilt and telescoping steering column, and a 13-speaker Bose premium audio system.

But there is no need to fret that desirable amenities are reserved for the top-trim models only. Indeed, if you consider the Pathfinder S, you’ll still have push-button ignition, a rearview monitor, Sirius TravelLink, a latch and glide seating system, three-zone climate control, and cargo under floor storage.

Other grades bring in remote engine start, power front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. Also available is metallic interior trim, stainless steel front kick plates, and a 120-volt AC power outlet.

As for seating, the Pathfinder is available in a single 2-3-2 configuration. Behind the front bucket seats is a 40-20-40 split-folding bench seat with a 50-50 fold-down bench seat in the third row.

2017 Nissan Pathfinder

Access to that third row is accomplished by means of an “EZ FLEX Seating System” featuring the previously mentioned latch and glide system. Here, the second-row seat slides about five inches forward and tilts for ease of access to the third row. Families will like this because even with a child seat in the second row, it doesn’t have to be removed before tilting. Further, the third-row seats recline, making what normally is a less desirable seating area palpable, at least for youngsters.

Overall, the Pathfinder is very quiet, rides smooth, and is comfortable. If you’re the driver, the sight lines are excellent and the seat is roomy and supportive. You’ll find all controls within easy reach, the dials clear and understandable, and the center stack clean and orderly.

Some of my favorite Pathfinder attributes were the touchscreen with the easy-to-use navigation system, the deep storage compartment between the front seats, and the heated seats. Indeed, when the front seat heating elements are activated, you may be as impressed as I was by how fast warmth is circulated through them.

2017 Nissan Pathfinder

On the Road

Larger vehicles such as the Pathfinder rely chiefly on V6 engines to power these models. A few exceptions do exist — the GMC Acadia now offers a base four-cylinder engine, while the Dodge Durango makes available a V8.

Fortunately, Nissan’s V6 provides a happy medium between fuel economy and performance, and does so without forced induction. Step on the gas pedal and the Pathfinder surely and steadily picks up speed. Gun it and the engine immediately responds.

Previously, you would have sensed the engine was paired with a CVT as the RPMs build as your speed increases. It is an uncomfortable feeling for those not used to the sensation of an engine that gets louder before leveling off. With the new CVT, the transmission eases as you accelerate, supplying a more natural “shifting” sensation.

Not having the benefit of a full passenger load or pulling a trailer means also not being able to experience the Pathfinder operating under the most extreme conditions. For some shoppers, moving up to the Nissan Armada is the next logical choice, as it supplies V8-performance along with 8,500 pounds of towing capacity. But you’ll also pay much more (from $44,900) and see your fuel economy drop by one-third. Clearly, there is much value in the Pathfinder, especially if your passenger or towing needs are more modest.

2017 Nissan Pathfinder

Parting Thoughts

If you choose the Pathfinder and regularly traverse rough terrain, then opt for available four-wheel drive. Unlike typical all-wheel drive systems, the Pathfinder 4×4 can be operated in full- or part-time mode — a dial allows you to switch to two-wheel drive only or choose four-wheel drive or automatic.

To obtain the bulk of the available driver-assist safety features, you’ll need to look at the Pathfinder SL. Add in a tow hitch package ($400), tech package with navigation and blind spot warning with rear cross traffic alert ($1,150) and a cold package — heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and heated outside mirrors ($400). Add in 4×4 and your final price will come in around $42,000. Take advantage of incentives and your final price should come in no higher than $40,000.

In all, the 2017 Pathfinder offers a complete package for families, supplying everything needed for local driving as well as for vacation travel. The improved powertrain, burlier visage, and agile handling make this model one worth considering. At the same time, you might also consider the five-passenger Nissan Murano if you prefer more standard storage room in a midsize SUV.

2017 Nissan Pathfinder


See Also — Generation Two: 2018 Buick Enclave

All photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2017 SUVs, 4x4, CVT, direct injection, leather seats, Nissan Altima, Nissan Murano, Nissan Pathfinder, Nissan Rogue, NissanConnect, V6 engine

Improved Powertrain Moves the 2017 Toyota Sienna

November 9, 2016 by admin 3 Comments

The capable Toyota Sienna receives an important update ahead of its next major change.

2017 Toyota Sienna
2017 Toyota Sienna.

As far as minivans go, the Toyota Sienna is the cream of the crop. Well, don’t tell that to Honda and Chrysler as both brands field excellent people movers of their own. Add in the Kia Sedona, Dodge Grand Caravan, and the Nissan Quest, and there are six models to consider in this once shrinking, but now very much thriving segment.

Now in its twentieth year and coming to the end of its third generation, the Toyota Sienna has something no competitors provide: available all-wheel drive. The Sienna once offered a standard four-cylinder engine, but wisely scrapped the base engine in 2013, continuing with the V6 alone. In this arena, a V6 is expected — how else can you move upwards of eight people and all their gear plus possibly tow something?

The most significant change for the 2017 Sienna is under the hood. The 3.5-liter V6, in use since 2007, was upgraded and now features direct injection. That move yields a 30 horsepower boost for an engine rated at 296 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The V6 now comes paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission — the six-speed is history. These changes have yielded a more efficient model with an EPA rating of 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway — that’s a 2 mpg gain over last year.

2017 Toyota Sienna

2017 Toyota Sienna Trim Levels

The 2017 Sienna is available in L ($29,750), LE ($32,540), SE ($36,110), XLE ($42,145), and Limited ($42,800) trims. Add $950 for the destination charge. All-wheel drive is available with the LE, XLE, and Limited trims, and increases your base price by upwards of $2,540.

Now back to minivan popularity: my very unscientific analysis of the market is showing increased interest in a segment once disdained. We all know that crossover sport utility vehicles have shaken the minivan market to the core, orchestrating a wholesale shift away from coupes, sedans, and wagons to SUVs.

Indeed, the shift has been so strong that this year (2016) light duty trucks and SUVs are likely to account for 10 million units sold in the US market. In that count, minivans are bunched with cars and, therefore, reflect the shift away to truck-like vehicles.

Well, the market has since been rejuvenated, thanks in part to the all-new Chrysler Pacifica, which has caused consumers to revisit the segment. But that’s not all — in my unscientific analysis what sets minivans apart from the pack are its dual sliding doors, a feature no crossover has. Instead of fighting with pivoting doors while attempting to put a car seat and child in place, minivans make it very easy on parents by handling the door issue for them.

Adding to the minivan advantage are power sliding doors. On the Sienna, the base L model features sliding doors, but with no power assistance. However, once you reach the LE level, power assistance with jam protection appears, the latter ensuring little hands are not mangled as the door shuts. Yes, you’ll want to start your Sienna shopping by examining the LE edition first.

2017 Toyota Sienna

Standard Exterior Features by Trim

Beyond the bold front fascia, long profile, and the expected (or at least available) power liftgate, the distinguishing features on minivans may vary only in small ways. For the 2017 Sienna, a careful inspection of each trim level reveals differences, sometimes subtle.

Standard equipment includes automatic projector-beam halogen headlamps, a black front grille, power side mirrors with blind spot mirrors, 17-inch alloy wheels set within all-season tires, a color-keyed rear spoiler, an in-glass antenna, and black garnish on the liftgate.

Move away from the base model and you’ll find many upgrades, including to the grille, side mirrors, door handles, and rear garnish. The all-wheel drive LE edition brings in 18-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels set within run-flat tires. I’m not a fan of run flats (especially in a blow out) — you can always upgrade to all-seasons and insist on a full spare. Privacy glass, black roof rails, and a rear bumper protector are also included.

Opt for the SE and this model builds on the LE’s features by bringing in LED daytime running lights, fog lights, LED taillights, and 19-inch gunmetal-finished alloy wheels. Color-keyed front and rear underbody spoilers and a sport mesh grille are also present. Choose the SE Premium package and your Sienna gains a power tilt and slide moonroof, touch sensitive doors, and heated side mirrors with safety indicators.

On the XLE trim, the changes encompass the side mirrors, grille, and your wheel choices. You can also opt for the rear parking assist sonar as part of a premium package.

The top-of-the-line Limited brings in a handful of features, including the previous premium package upgrades. Puddle lamps, grille and liftgate trim embellishments, and available HID headlamps are among the changes apparent.

2017 Toyota Sienna

Standard Interior Features by Trim

The 2017 Sienna offers standard room for seven with available room for eight (LE and SE FWD and XLE editions). Standard equipment includes keyless entry, fabric-trimmed front seats, second-row captain’s chairs, a tilt and telescoping steering column, cruise control, power accessories, an overhead console, dual sun visors, a half dozen cup holders, and front and rear door map pockets with bottle holders.

Opt for the LE edition and you’ll find upgraded fabric-trimmed seats, manual second- and third-row sunshades, a fixed center console, and a cargo storage compartment. The SE edition builds on the earlier models by bringing in imitation leather-trimmed seats. heated and power-operated front seats, sport instrumentation, power liftgate, and a premium package with push-button start, driver microphone, and a dual-view Blu-Ray DVD entertainment system.

The hits keep coming and the XLE edition brings in power windows with jam protection, power rear quarter windows, leather-trimmed captain’s chairs, an expanded smart key system on all doors, and illumination to the center console storage compartment.

The Limited edition pulls out all the stops by bringing in imitation leather seats to the second and third row (front-wheel drive models only), a heated steering wheel with Bluetooth and audio commands, and available rain-sensing wipers.

As for comfort, the Sienna delivers. The driver’s seat is comfortable, supportive, and all controls are within easy reach. Yes, that’s the transmission shifter on the lower center console — positioned to provide you with generous open storage space in front of the center console. There’s lots of room in this minivan for seven — even eight-models don’t skimp on passenger space. Although technically a “mini” van, the Toyota Sienna is capacious.

2017 Toyota Sienna

Technology and Safety

Toyota offers various Entune audio packages across the Sienna line. The standard system includes a 6.1-inch touchscreen display and features four speakers, an auxiliary audio jack, a USB port, voice recognition, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, and a rearview camera. This package is standard on the L.

2017 Toyota SiennaGiving customers yet another reason to skip the base model is the Entune audio system and navigation app included with the LE, SE, and XLE editions. Here, you get six speakers, a seven-inch screen, satellite radio, and HD radio. Choose the premium package and you’ll get expanded apps, Gracenote album cover art, and a panoramic rearview camera.

The best package is reserved for the Limited as a JBL audio system with 10 speakers including a subwoofer is added.

On the safety front, the 2017 Sienna offers the expected safety features associated with this type of model. For consumers desiring driver assist features such as dynamic radar cruise control, a pre-collision system, enhanced vehicle dynamics management, and hill-start assist control, this is an $1,800 option on the Limited Premium edition only. One important fact: the package is automatically included with the all-wheel drive model.

On the Road

A significant concern for minivan owners is the way this machine rides and drives. The Sienna earns high marks in
visibility, offering a clear view of the road ahead. Although not sitting quite as high as an SUV, the elevated profile is superior to what you’d find in a car.

On the NVH front — noise, vibration, and harshness — the Sienna receives an average score for noise, a superior rating for vibration, and a very good score for harshness. You’ll hear wind noise seeping through the front windows at a low level while driving on the highway. The minivan itself is buttoned down to the point where vibration such as you would feel through the steering wheel and dashboard are not present. Further, on the ride front, the suspension system is firm, yet soft, with most road abrasions handled with ease.

If you’ve driven more recent copies of the Sienna, you’ll note the powertrain improvements nearly immediately. Although this minivan is not made to sprint to the finish, it has a respectable 0-to-60 mph time of about seven seconds. That is, only when the driver is present. Under real life conditions— when the minivan has four or more people and is carrying all their gear, you may need to add two seconds to that time. That’s still a respectable number, however.

As for the new transmission, it works seamlessly in the background, although downshifts while passing seem a bit slow. You won’t give the 2017 Sienna high marks for traversing the slalom, but with available all-wheel drive, the improved handling and grip supplies this model with an important edge over models such as the Chrysler Pacifica and the Kia Sedona. Braking is, by the way, firm to the touch.

2017 Toyota Sienna

Parting Thoughts

If there is a downside to the 2017 Sienna, that would be its aging design. A full redesign is due next year, but at least the powertrain has been updated in advance of the new model.

Pricing can quickly rise if you do not carefully choose your trim level and packages. Fully optioned, a Limited Premium AWD model retails for about $48,000. That’s a lot of money to pay for a minivan — at the same time, be on the lookout for incentives as you have tremendous bargaining power here.

On the other hand, an SE Premium model brings in many of the top features for about $6,000 less. It is a front-wheel drive model, therefore if all-wheel drive is a must for where you live, the similarly priced XLE Premium checks off all the right boxes.

Finally, like other manufacturers, driver assistance features are available only on the top trim. That’s unfortunate and something we hope Toyota will change when the fourth-generation Sienna debuts. Making such safety features available across more trim lines helps budget-minded shoppers stay within their means while giving them the added security such driver assist add-ons provide.

2017 Toyota Sienna

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2017 cars, 2017 Sienna, all-wheel drive, Chrysler Pacifica, direct injection, DODGE GRAND CARAVAN, eight-speed transmission, HONDA ODYSSEY, KIA SEDONA, minivan, NISSAN QUEST, Toyota Entune, TOYOTA SIENNA, V6 engine

Smaller, More Potent Turbo Engine Powers Volkswagen Jetta

August 11, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

Volkswagen continues to find ways to squeeze more power out of its engines, gasoline and diesel alike. For 2016, the Volkswagen Jetta will be powered by this automaker’s all-new gasoline engine, a turbocharged, direct-injected powerplant displacing at just 1.4 liters.

The new 1.4 liter engine will replace two gasoline engines: a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four and a 1.8-liter turbocharged four. Both gas engines have long been available in the Jetta, but will give way to the new engine as part of Volkswagen’s engine downsizing effort. Diesel and hybrid variants of the Jetta will continue.

More Efficient Jetta Engine

The EA211 four-cylinder engine features lightweight aluminum construction and brings in an integrated exhaust manifold as well as a toothed-belt drive for its double overhead camshaft valvetrain making use of variable intake and exhaust timing. It retains the 82 mm (3.23 inch) cylinder spacing of the outgoing engine and measures 2.93 bore x 3.15 stroke. That change provides an improved platform for increasing torque through direct induction, such as turbocharging or supercharging.

With a 10.0:1 compression ratio, the new engine makes an estimated 150 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 184 foot-pounds of torque at 1,400 rpm. Those numbers compare favorably to the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine powering the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. Indeed, the Cruze’s motor is SAE-rated at 153 horsepower and 177 foot-pounds of torque.

Volkswagen will pair the EA211 engine with a standard five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission is expected to help the Volkswagen Jetta achieve 39 mpg on the highway. That figure compares to the current 37 mpg for the 1.8-liter turbo and 34 mpg for the 2.0-liter four. The Chevrolet Cruze achieves 38 mpg, although a Cruze Eco model is EPA-rated at 42 mpg.

Volkswagen Jetta

Volkswagen Jetta

Advanced Safety Technologies for the Masses

Just as Volkswagen releases a new engine, the world’s largest car manufacturer (by sales through the first half of 2015), is making other changes in an effort to stoke its weak US sales.

Undeniably, its most consequential move for 2016 as far as technologies go may have to do with its self-described democratization of its high-end driver assistance features. Specifically, Volkswagen will make available adaptive cruise control, front assist (forward collision warning and autonomous braking), blind spot monitor with rear traffic alert, lane departure warning, parking steering assistant, park distance control and automatic post-collision braking to more models.

Thus, the Volkswagen Beetle, CC, e-Golf, Golf, Golf GTI, Golf R, Golf SportWagen and Jetta will offer these features, depending on the trim level. What’s significant about this move is that such safety features were once the dominion of luxury makes before filtering to premium mainstream models.

By making such features widely available elsewhere, Volkswagen throws down the gauntlet in front of its competitors. Likely, we’ll see a response from the likes of Toyota, Ford and Honda, but at least for now Volkswagen can claim the safety initiative amongst the common, small cars that dot its product line.

Growing US Sales

While Volkswagen moved ahead of Toyota to become the world’s largest automaker three years ahead of schedule, it still needs to find a way to solve its persistently weak US operating presence.

Sales were up 2.4 percent in July, but are still down by 1.9 percent year to date in a market that is up by 5 percent. Not only does Volkswagen trail the big guys — Toyota, Chevrolet, Ford, Honda and Nissan — but it is begin beaten by Hyundai and Kia as well as Subaru, one the market’s smallest players.

Volkswagen’s Jetta, Passat and Golf families are its three top selling model lines, but sales of its Tiguan and Touareg crossovers are of little consequence in a market heavily tilted toward all things SUV. However, that may begin to change when Volkswagen begins building its seven-passenger CrossBlue utility vehicle by the end of 2016.

See Also — Yet More Jobs Follow Volkswagen to Tennessee

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: 2016 MODELS, CHEVROLET CRUZE, compact sedan, CROSSBLUE, direct injection, GASOLINE ENGINE, turbo, Volkswagen Jetta

What Makes Today’s Internal Combustion Engines More Efficient?

May 16, 2013 by admin 3 Comments

Internal Combustion Engine: First Use

Karl Benz registered his first car in July 1886, the three-wheeled Benz Patent Motor Car, model no. 1. That single cylinder four-stroke engine produced three-quarters of a horsepower and included an automatic intake slide, a controlled exhaust valve, and evaporation cooling.

Karl Friedrich Benz, first internal combustion engine
Karl Friedrich Benz.

Various engine refinements were made in the intervening century, but it wasn’t until recent years that new technologies began to make a big difference. Today’s internal combustion engines are smaller, lighter and more powerful than engines built a generation ago, delivering improved fuel economy and emitting fewer emissions thanks to several important technologies common today.

Fuel Injection

Drivers who grew up with cars outfitted with a carburetor can certainly appreciate that fuel injectors took over by the early 1990s. The lowly carburetor was inclined to flood the engine, cause hesitation or contribute to fast idling.

With fuel injection, fuel is atomized by forcibly pumping it through a highly pressurized, small nozzle. The air/fuel mixture is precise, minimizes waste and is cost effective. Give credit to fuel injectors for improving fuel economy, enhancing engine performance and for reducing emissions.

Aluminum Engines

Iron block engines are heavier and less efficient than aluminum block engines, the latter providing weight savings of up to 50 percent. Earlier aluminum engines, however, were prone to warping, but advancements in engineering have largely eliminated that risk.

Lighter engines are part of today’s product mix, what car manufacturers have been using to help lighten vehicle curb weights. Smaller aluminum engines coupled with other technologies mean that performance has been retained and fuel economy correspondingly improved.

Direct Injection

Internal combustion engine
Gasoline direct injection engine.
Where fuel injectors have replaced carburetors, direct injection systems are showing up as a replacement for earlier fuel injection systems. Also known as gasoline direct injection technology, fuel injectors are still widely used today.

Earlier fuel injection systems sprayed fuel into the intake manifold. With direct injection, fuel is sprayed directly into the engine chamber for a leaner mix of fuel. Direct injection burns more efficiently, reduces waste and is controlled by the engine’s computer to ensure precise delivery.

Variable Valve Timing

Multi-valve technology has given way to variable valve timing, the latter designed to enhance engine output. Valves are tasked with activating the breathing of the engine by timing air intake and exhaust.

Breathing is optimized by making it possible to vary the valve timing at different speeds and loads to correspond to varying work conditions. Those conditions are: low speed high load, high speed high load, partial load and lower temperature start and idling.

Components of a typical, four-stroke cycle, DOHC piston engine.
Components of a typical, four-stroke cycle, DOHC piston engine.
(E) Exhaust camshaft, (I) Intake camshaft, (S) Spark plug, (V) Valves,
(P) Piston, (R) Connecting rod, (C) Crankshaft,
(W) Water jacket for coolant flow.

Overhead Cam Shafts

Overhead valve engines have given way to overhead cam shaft engines, although OHV is still used in some designs including Chrysler’s HEMI engines. With OHC engines, the camshaft is smaller and is placed above the cylinder head instead of in the engine block. An OHC design permits additional intake and exhaust valves for an improved flow of air, fuel and exhaust.

OHC engines are marked as either SOHC for single overhead camshaft or DOHC for double overhead camshaft. As with other engine improvements OHC adds to the cost of delivering a more complex design.

Computer Systems

So far as changes in engine construction, delivery systems and design have made today’s engines more efficient, perhaps the biggest gains would not have been realized apart from the advancements made with today’s in-car computer systems.

On-board diagnostic computers showed up in the 1980s and were improved and standardized beginning with OBD-II’s release in 1996. However, it is the engine control unit (ECU) that controls ignition timing as well as the air/fuel mixture, fuel delivery and idle to optimize performance. Your vehicle’s performance, fuel economy and emissions output is largely dependent on the ECU. Yes, other computer chips are present too and are tasked with handling safety systems, navigation, the transmission and climate control.

Internal Combustion Engine Outlook

Despite the rise of vehicle electrification, including hybrids and pure electric vehicles, the outlook for the internal combustion engine remains bright. Today’s engines are much more complex and expensive, but the cost remains below that of emerging EV technologies.


See Also — Replace Your Timing Belt, Avoid Engine Damage

Karl Benz and internal combustion engine photo credits: Wikipedia.

Filed Under: Engineering & Technology Tagged With: aluminum engines, computers, direct injection, DOHC, fuel injection, ice, internal combustion engine, SOHC, variable valve technology

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