Merry Christmas!

Tis the season! From Adam's Autos: Merry Christmas and have a happy new year!

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Coming Soon! Mega Mashup Review: 2015 & 2016 Chevrolet Malibu

Hello All!

In the coming days, prepare yourselves for an in-depth comparison and exclusive mega-mashup review of the 2015 AND the all-new 2016 Chevy Malibu sedan! It was certainly interesting to note the differences between the new and old model, and GM certainly put forth a lot of effort and unique innovations into the new 2016 model. 

I would like to thank Draper Auto in Saginaw, Michigan and Mr. Cole Davis for giving me the opportunity to drive the all new 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. There aren't many examples out there yet, and I'm glad to be one of the first to review the new Malibu.

The 2015 (left) and redesigned 2016 (right) Chevy Malibu.

Stay tuned, and ROLL ON!

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Finals Week Is Upon Us!

Hey there readers!

As you may already know, finals week for many students all over is now here. Therefore, Adam's Autos will be taking a break this week in preparation. However, stay tuned for more new automotive news and reviews coming soon, and like the Adam's Autos Facebook page at the link provided below to make sure you never miss a beat!

Best of luck to all other students out there on their upcoming finals! May the curve forever be in your favor! 

ROLL ON!

Adam's Autos on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adamsautosblog/

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Takata Airbag Recall - What You Need to Know

Recalls are nothing new. Every company, automotive or otherwise, typically has some issue they have to rectify. Quality, customer satisfaction, and safety should be at the top of every company’s objectives. However, what really distinguishes an issue as unethical is when it affects millions of products and individuals and was known internally to be a potential problem from the start. Enter Takata, a global supplier headquartered in Japan that produces various components for the auto industry, such as airbags, interior trim pieces, seat belts, and steering wheels. While possibly little was known about the company before these recalls, Takata may now be remembered as being responsible for one of the largest recalls in automobile history. Yet, this isn’t the first time Takata has been in recall trouble, as a recall in 1995 was issued for over 8 million vehicles with defective seat belts supplied by Takata.

The Scenario

NHTSA (The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) called for expanded recalls after a New York Times article was published stating that Takata knew of defects with their airbags years before any official paperwork was filed. These defects were more widespread than previously thought, and several individuals were seriously hurt or killed as a result of exploding Takata airbags. In a nutshell, what causes these airbags to explode in an accident is that the inflator within the airbag module ignites with excessive explosive force, causing metal parts that are inside to fly out and rupture the airbag. As you can imagine (but probably shouldn't), these parts flying out and striking an individual can be extremely dangerous. Its also important to keep in mind that airbags deploy at over 200 mph - enough force alone to be dangerous without any added complications. This is why it is important for younger children and baby seats to be placed in the back of the car!

Following NHTSA’s investigation, repercussions were taken, and Takata was fined $14,000 daily for not complying throughout the investigation at times. Then in May 2015, the Department of Transportation (DOT) released a statement stating Takata finally acknowledged that the inflator it used in various airbag assemblies was faulty. It was estimated that over 33.8 million vehicles could potentially be affected. To date, Takata has been fined civil penalties of up to $200 million dollars, and automakers are still currently recalling and fixing affected models.

So What Now?

So what does this mean for drivers? It means consumers need to be vigilant about other recalls going forward, do proper research before buying a car, and most importantly, if you happen to own one of the affected models, get it fixed IMMEDIATELY to ensure the safety of yourself and those riding with you. I care about my readers, so please, get this work done ASAP. A wide variety of manufacturers, foreign and domestic, are affected, including Honda, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Chrysler, General Motors, and many more. I've provided some links below to sites that share even more info about the Takata airbag recall, which specific models and years of cars are potentially affected, and much more. 

• http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2014/10/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-takata-air-bag-recall/index.htm
• http://www.safercar.gov/rs/takata/takatalist.html

Furthermore, don't let recalls scare into thinking one specific automaker has poor quality, or isn't committed to their customers. The fact that companies are voluntarily fixing as many cars as quickly as possible demonstrates their commitment to drivers and condemnation of Takata's actions. Takata will now serve as another historic example of what could happen if a supplier does not conduct business ethically and continues to irresponsibly source to buyers.

That's it for this week. Until next time: ROLL ON!

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Winter Driving Tips

Given the recent snowfall here in Michigan, I figured this would be a good time to share some winter driving safety tactics, as old man winter is sure to be back soon. Winter driving can be tricky, but it certainly doesn’t have to be. And there’s no need to freak out every time there’s a snowfall, especially if you live in a place that gets it every year. Follow these tips, and you can better ensure that you and those around you get from point A to point B safely this winter.

     1.    Keep your tires properly inflated.

Just as in the summertime, keeping your tires properly inflated in the winter gives you more stability and improves your fuel economy. Similarly, do not mix the brand of tires on your car. If you have Goodyear winter tires in front, you should have the same in back.

     2.     Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surfaces.

I admit, I’ve done this one before myself. But it is very important to heed this tip. Using cruise control can make you feel more lax and less alert while driving, reducing your response time. That is something you will certainly need when conditions call for using greater caution.

     3.     Check the weather before going on extended excursions.

This really goes for around town ventures or for road trips. Knowing the weather in advance not only allows you to better plan out stops and routes while you’re out, but it allows you to remain safe wherever you travel, since you can potentially avoid areas where there may be more dangerous conditions.

    4.     Know your vehicle well, and allow more distance between you and other vehicles to stop.

You drive your car every day, which gives you plenty of time to learn its capabilities and limitations, just like you would learn your own strengths and weaknesses. Understand how long it takes for your vehicle to brake and accelerate under various conditions, and also keep a check on the services you have performed on your car, such as fluid checks, and what other work may need to be done on your car. Instead of a following distance of two to three cars, you should double or triple that distance as the weather gets worse. Again, this will keep you, your passengers, and others safer.

     5.     Remember: Ice and snow, TAKE IT SLOW!

I’m taking this one from my mother, given that she worked for MDOT for years and used this slogan for many winter campaigns. If you simply SLOW DOWN and take the appropriate time to get to your destination, you will find that you will not only get there safely, but you will be more relaxed once you arrive as well.

If you’re curious about other ways that’ll help you stay safe while driving in the snow, click the link below to redirect to a AAA Insurance website that has even more useful winter driving tips: http://exchange.aaa.com/safety/roadway-safety/winter-driving-tips/#.VlfHnvmrShc

Winter is not everyone’s favorite season, but there’s a lot of fun to be had during this time of year. Just remember this fun should not come at the expense of safety. Follow these winter driving tips, and go enjoy your winter excursions in style and safety. ROLL ON!

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

2015 Chrysler 200 Review

Transformation: The state of being transformed; A change in form, appearance, character or nature.

2015 Chrysler 200 S in Bright White Clearcoat

          This is the Dictionary.com definition of the word transformation. Now if there ever was a need for a visual representation of the word, the 2015 Chrysler 200 might be the prime candidate. All-new for the 2015 model year and marketed as “America’s Import”, the 200 comes with the intention to steal shares of the ever-competitive midsized car market away from the segment champions, the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Does it have what it takes to stand out in today’s marketplace? Let’s take an in-depth look today, on Adam’s Autos!

For 2015, the Chrysler 200 sheds its very ho-hum previous design for all new sheet metal that makes it one of the most stylish vehicles currently in the Fiat-Chrysler portfolio. And that’s a GOOD thing. I mean, take a look at the old and new models side-by-side. I doubt anyone will miss the past model. However, its platform twin, the Dodge Avenger, was not lucky enough to receive a complete overhaul and was discontinued after the 2014 model year. Something tells me it won’t be terribly missed either…

The 200 comes in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, and four trim levels: base LX, Limited, S, and C. Only the S and C models can be had with AWD. I recently had the opportunity to drive the Limited model with Chrysler’s 2.4 liter Tigershark 4-cylinder engine, and the sportier S model with its 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 engine. Both were front wheel drive vehicles. You can opt to get the 4 or 6-cylinder engine on higher trims, but only the V6 comes with AWD.

My test drives took place at Garber Chrysler in Saginaw, Michigan, where Mrs. Kelly French was simply MAGNIFICENT in helping me understand just about all aspects of the vehicle. Her passion is second to none, and I STRONGLY recommend you visit her and this dealership if you have any desire to learn more about Chrysler’s latest products! Tell them Adam from Adam's Autos at www.adamsautos.org sent you! From my own family’s buying experiences, Garber automotive group is second-to-none when it comes to getting the customer the best value.

         My initial impressions of the new 200 have mostly been positive, and media reviews have been relatively positive as well. Many modern features such as smart key access, remote start, heated seats, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring are available. While behind the wheel, I noticed that the 3.6 V6 engine always feels strong and seems to have plenty of power from almost any situation. It also sounds refined, yet sporty in everyday driving. That being said, the 2.4 4-cylinder engine should satisfy most everyday drivers, but it is notably less refined and down on power compared to its 6-cylinder counterpart. With 184 horsepower on tap, this is to be expected. Both engines feature modern technological touches, such as variable valve timing and direct-injection, and are mated to ZF’s new 9-speed automatic transmission for passenger cars. Yep, you read that right: 9-speeds. That’s quite unique, and it shows its practicality in the amount of interior storage that has been freed up due to the compact size of its design, its fancy rotary shifter knob, along with the fuel economy ratings for both engines. I did notice that the way the transmission is programmed in the 4-cylinder car made it feel almost like a 4-speed automatic transmission at times. In other words, shifts points were very long. Having so many extra gears may feel odd to some that are not used to it while driving, so keep that in mind. The S model felt sportier than the 2.4 Limited due to its suspension tuning and added engine power, but still doesn’t feel as sharp as one might expect. But then again, if you’re buying a car in this midsized category, you’re probably not looking for full-on sports car attributes (unless you’re considering a Mazda 6). The brakes feel strong on all models.

           In terms of other driving dynamics and vehicle impressions, the 200’s overall interior was pretty high quality and quiet in both models I tested. Tire noise is evident at times, but not objective, and as mentioned, the 2.4 4-cylinder’s sounds intrude more than the V6 engine sounds do. Ride quality is comfortable in all models, although it can feel more firm with the larger tire sizes. The base 6 speaker sound system will likely be loud enough for most, but in the case it isn’t, Chrysler offers an uplevel 506-watt 9-speaker Alpine sound system in the 200, complete with a subwoofer and navigation, all fed through Chrysler’s excellent UConnect infotainment system. This system is easily one of the most intuitive in the business, and combines practicality with functionality well. Smaller 5.0 touchscreens are standard on most trims (except the LX), but you can option up to the gigantic 8.4-inch touchscreen, and even to an even more beautiful gauge cluster. The overall effect is quite upscale, and soft-touch and leather stitched interior materials add even further to the ambience. I liked the black and blue leather and dashboard trim in my white S tester. Top-end C models even get real wood trim on the dashboard! The only major downside to the interior is that while the seats and headrests are comfortable, the headrests are quite large, and I had difficult time seeing over them and over the high rear decklid. Rear seat space can also feel confining if the front seats are pushed too far back. Trunk space is on-par with the midsized class, and interior storage is ahead of the game, again, due to the compact space-saving design of the 9-speed automatic in the 200.

2015 Chrysler 200 Limited in Vivid Blue Pearlcoat

            Pricing for the new 200 starts at $21,995 for the base LX model, and can reach the upper $30,000 range for a fully loaded C model with the Navigation and Sound package and panoramic sunroof option. These prices are on par with the competition these days, as all entrants are becoming more luxurious and higher in quality.

So is the new Chrysler 200 worth all of the hype? In many ways, yes. And in a few spots, it may still need some improvement. But this always holds true for many models across all automakers, and I believe that the Chrysler 200 is definitely light-years ahead of the older model it replaces. And that’s saying A LOT about the future of this model, and the future Chrysler in general.

That wraps it up for this review! So until next time: ROLL ON!

Grading

Engine Power/Economy: A-, 9 points (3.6 V6), B, 7 points (2.4 4-cylinder)

Quietness: A-, 9 points (3.6), B+, 8 points (2.4)

Interior Quality & Comfort: B+, 8 points

Driving Dynamics: B, 7 points (3.6), B-, 6 points (2.4)

Cargo Capacity: A, 10 points

Overall: 43/50 (B, 3.6 V6), 39/50 (C+, 2.4 4-cylinder)

On the Adam’s Autos “Should You Buy It?” scale of Drool, Cool, Meh, or Bleh: It’s “Cool”

Other Specs

Engines Available: 2.4 liter Tigershark 4-cylinder (184 HP), 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 (295 HP)

Fuel Economy Ratings: 23 city/36 highway (2.4), 18 city/32 highway (3.6)

Transmissions Available: 9-speed automatic

Model Pricing: $21,995 (LX) - $30,195 (C w/All-Wheel Drive)

Trim Levels: LX, Limited, S, C

Available Safety Systems: Blind Spot Monitoring, Active Forward-Collision Warning/w Automatic Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear-View Camera, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning w/Lane Keep Assist, All Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain, Knees), Advanced Brake Assist, Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist, Rain-Sensing Wipers

Crash Test Results: IIHS 2015 Top Safety Pick+

IIHS Offset: Good

IIHS Small Overlap: Good

IIHS Side: Good

Roof Strength: Good

Head Restraints & Seats: Good

Star Ratings: Frontal Driver- 5 Stars  Frontal Passenger- 5 Stars  Front Side Crash- 5 Stars  Rear Side Crash- 5 Stars  Rollover- 4 Stars

Key Competitors: All vehicles in the midsized car segment, which includes the: Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion Honda Accord, Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata, Volkswagen Passat, Subaru Legacy, & Nissan Altima

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

2017 Jaguar F-Pace - REVEALED

2017 Jaguar F-Pace

"Hi! My name is..."

"Better late than never" is exactly the phrase that could be applied to this vehicle. Jaguar has had an awkward hole in their lineup for some time now, and that has been in the SUV arena. Almost every luxury brand outside of Jaguar and Bentley had entered this segment, and now, both brands can say they have viable entrants in this segment now. The F-Pace is Jaguar's first true SUV, and from the looks of it, it is a solid effort overall.

Show Us What You're Made Of

Much of Jaguar's current design language can be seen in the F-Pace, including the F-Type's rear taillight design. It looks very handsome on this model, as does the interior. Giant touch screens and Jaguar's InControl infotainment system keep the F-Pace in step with the times, and the overall layout and materials used in the interior look to be top-notch, just as you'd expect from a modern, competitive luxury SUV. The body and several other components of this SUV are made out of aluminum, which will not only help reduce the weight of the car, but make it feel more agile and operate more efficiently. Most Jaguars as of late have been quite the driving machines, meaning expectations are likely high for the F-Pace. A variety of engines will be available, starting out with a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 making 340 horsepower, 332 pound feet of torque, and a 2.0 diesel four-cylinder making 180 horsepower and 317 pound feet of torque. A ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission is used with all engines, and the F-Pace is an All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) vehicle.

2017 Jaguar F-Pace Interior

When Will It Arrive?

I must say, I'm REALLY liking the looks of this new Jaguar. It's one of the most handsome SUVs I've seen in a long time, and it's much less awkward looking than the new Bentley Bentayga SUV, which will undoubtedly cost a lot more than this Jag. Depending on what the official performance numbers, reliability, and consumer satisfaction ratings are, this might just end up being a hit for Jaguar and earn a spot on my list of dream cars I would want to purchase in the future. Pricing for the F-Pace begins at $40,990 for the entry diesel model, and then there is an uplevel first-edition model that starts at $69,700. The F-Pace will arrive at Jaguar dealers by early 2016.

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

2017 FIAT 124 Spider - REVEALED

Hello, and happy post-Thanksgiving everyone! Welcome back to Adam's Autos! Today, as part my last couple posts about the 2015 L.A. Auto Show, we will take a quick look at two more new models that really caught my eye. This first of these being the new FIAT 124 Spider roadster.

2017 FIAT 124 Spider Convertible

An original FIAT 124 Sport Spider

What's Old Is New Again

To me, FIAT is a "love-it-or-hate-it" kinda brand. They have quirky styling that makes them either stand out in the eyes or some, or may make others flinch or grimace. And their reliability as of late has been sketchy to say the least. However, in an effort to keep up the brand's momentum, the Spider name is being revived as an entirely new model for the 21st century. And I must say, I do like the new styling. It is a perfect blend of new and old, and you can actually see where the character lines of the classic model have been seamlessly implemented into this new incarnation. If the 124 Spider doesn't sound special enough yet, FIAT will make the first 124 models in a special Azzurro Blue color and call them the "Prima Edizione Lusso", which may loosely translate to "FIAT 124 Spider First Edition."

2017 FIAT 124 Spider Interior; Quite similar to its Mazda Miata cousin.

Family Ties

Now, if you're thinking the new 124 Spider looks familiar, then you're right. That's because it is very heavily based on the recently-redesigned Mazda Miata convertible. Even the interior is just about the same except for the badge on the steering wheel and some trim pieces. But more importantly, what this means is that Mazda's sporty "Zoom-Zoom" driving dynamics should be very prevalent in this design, alongside a hint of Italian flavor. Or so FIAT claims anyways. It's definitely an interesting combo to think about, as the Miata has always been regarded as one of the most fun small roadsters to drive. Plus, there's just something about a convertible. I mean, who hasn't wanted one at some point? They have a particular charm about them...

What will really make this new little FIAT unique however, is its powertrain. Under the hood, a 1.4 liter turbocharged engine making 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque will reside. This is stronger than the Mazda Miata's four-cylinder which makes 155 horsepower and 148 pound feet of torque, meaning this FIAT might... Again: MIGHT just beat the Mazda at its own Zoom-Zoom game in the power department. Mazda has developed a somewhat bad habit lately of making very sporty-looking/driving cars without the proper power punch under the hood to match those looks (hint-hint Mazda, we're all still waiting). That being said, the Mazda's powertrain will be fine for most, and this one in the 124 Spider will please those who would like a little more kick in their daily commute without sacrificing good fuel economy. Official fuel economy numbers are not available yet, and no word on an Abarth model either (that's terminology for FIAT's high-performance models). Both a six-speed automatic and manual transmission will be offered.

While pricing for the 124 Spider is also unavailable at this time, we can expect to see this roadster arrive on a FIAT dealer lots this coming Summer 2016. I can't wait for that timeframe to roll around, as I'm quite looking forward to checking one out myself for a new car review and test drive.

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving to all out there today! May your holidays be full of family, fun, food, and memories to last a lifetime. Check back with Adam's Autos nearly every weekend for the latest automotive news and reviews. Until then: ROLL ON! And for today: EAT ON!

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

2016 Cadillac CT6 and 2017 Cadillac XT5

Of course, I'd be remiss if I didn't post about the latest upcoming Cadillac models. If you've been following the brand lately, you likely have seen how determined Cadillac is now about competing with the world's biggest luxury brands, such as Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW. This means that a new take on the brand's now signature "Art and Science" design language was in order, and quickly ushered in to elevate products to a new level of luxury. And this is where the CT6 and XT5 come in. Both models follow closely in the footsteps laid out by the ATS and CTS that came before them, and also debut Cadillac's new naming system they will be using on future models. Sedans will now start with the letters "CT" followed by a number, where SUVs will be called "XT" followed by a number. The only vehicle to break this rule will be the Escalade, which will keep its name indefinitely, likely due to how iconic it is now (Lincoln also recently said the Navigator, the Escalade's biggest competitor, will never change its name either). Personally, I prefered it when all of the luxury brands out there used actual names for their cars instead of the letter/number combination names we have now because it made the models more memorable I feel. But hey, that's just me. It's a strategy that seems to have worked better for some brands than others, Cadillac being one of those brands fortunately.

As these are all new models, you can expect that these vehicles will use some of the latest high-quality, high-strength, weight-saving components such as aluminum body pieces. And additionally, you can expect some very savvy and innovative things to be taking place on the interior of these cars as well, such as alcantara/leather seating and dashboard pieces, a 32-speaker Bose premium sound system in the CT6, a revised Cadillac CUE infotainment system, and an array of new engine and transmission choices developed specifically for Cadillac applications. Auto-stop/start, where the vehicle will shut the engine off at a stop after a period of time has passed in order to save fuel, a plug-in hybrid model planned for the CT6, and twin-turbo power are just a couple of the features you can expect from General Motor's forthcoming lineup of engines, which build off of the award-winning, innovative designs of past powertrains GM has regularly used.

While pricing for the XT5 hasn't been announced yet, I would expect it to not be objectionably higher than the starting price of the current SRX crossover, which is what the XT5 is replacing (the 2016 Cadillac SRX starts at $37,605). And besides, the SRX is but one of many vehicles participating in a very competitive, growing market: the luxury crossover segment. Plus, it is one of Cadillac's most popular models as well, and you definitely do not want to alienate buyers in a segment that is as competitive as that one is these days. This is seen clearly in the XT5's design, which retains the overall shape and greenhouse of the SRX, but at the same time, is lighter, sleeker, and a tad bit longer than the model it is replacing. This should translate to a more stylish and roomy interior as a result, and better ride quality as well with its new suspension setup. 

The new CT6 will start at $56,490, and will compete with the likes of the BMW 7-Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and Audi A8. From what I've heard, drives like a much smaller car than it actually is. This would certainly be an awesome feat, as the CT6 makes use of 13 different kinds of unique materials in its design, and that sort of compliment was not one that was given too often to big Cadillac sedans of the past, no matter how opulent they were.

So overall, Cadillac has been on a roll lately with their designs, capturing attention from all around the world. The XT5 even debuted in Dubai before the L.A. Auto Show even got underway! If that doesn't clearly demonstrate where Cadillac's mindset is these days, I'm not sure what else will. I'm looking forward to seeing and driving these vehicles in person myself in the near future.

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Presenting the 2016 Car & Truck of the Year! The Chevrolet Camaro & Colorado!

Congratulations is in order for GM's Chevrolet brand! As Motor Trend's 2016 Car and Truck of the Year awards went to the Camaro and the Colorado! Both models were recently revamped within the Chevy lineup, the Camaro for the 2016 model year and the Colorado was reintroduced as a 2015 model (alongside its GMC Canyon twin) after a production hiatus for a few years. Initially, Motor Trend noted that no one thought that the Camaro would last in the testing they did to determine the best of the best 2016 models. But to their pleasant surprise, it did, and proved to be a great improvement over the last generation model as well. This generation of the Camaro is lighter, more agile and innovative inside and out, and comes with 4-cylinder, V6, and V8 powertrain options, allowing there to truly be a Camaro for "everyone" this time around. I look forward to test driving and reviewing one for myself one day!

Within the current General Motor's portfolio, I would have to say that the Colorado/Canyon trucks are some of my favorite vehicles! They are a breath of fresh air in a segment that was dying off quickly. The Toyota Tacoma has long been the class leader in the compact truck segment, and it was just refreshed for 2016 itself in an effort to protect its crown. Ford doesn't produce the Ranger anymore (although word is this may change soon), and the next best competitor, the Nissan Frontier, was last redesigned in 2005! 10 YEARS AGO! Maybe that gives you a better idea of what condition that segment was in. With an abundance of new technology and style to boot too, the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon are poised to bring a new variety of customers to showrooms who may want truck utility, but without the full size of a Silverado or an F-150. I've even been tempted to consider trading my car in on one recently! Alas, they are VERY pricy for being considered "compact trucks"... But still, they are some great vehicles regardless.

General Motors has long been one of my favorite companies in the auto industry. And it's good to see them putting such immense efforts into their new products these days. Last time I can remember two fully new GM products winning car and truck of the year at the same time was back in 2007, when the then all-new Saturn Aura and Chevy Silverado won. So having two cars from the same company, let alone brand, win major awards in one year is just a greater testimony to GM's commitment to quality and their customer base!

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

2017 Lincoln MKZ: The Ultimate Foreshadower Officially REVEALED

If there is any current Lincoln model that has been met with overwhelming success, it is the MKZ. Consumer Reports says it's one of the most well-executed Lincoln products in recent memory. And I would tend to agree, and it's a key model for a brand that is still trying to figure out where exactly it belongs in the, quite frankly, overcrowded luxury market. Without its signature Town Car in their lineup anymore, and outside of the Navigator, prior to the newer MKZ's introduction, there wasn't much in Lincoln's lineup that would have tempted a BMW or Lexus owner to cross-shop the brand. Old-school designs and ride quality were just a couple of factors that led to new Lincoln products quickly feeling dated almost right as they drove off of the dealer lot. 

That is all changing now (albeit very slowly), as the Continental, another famous model in the history of the Lincoln brand, is due to be resurrected soon to replace the mundane MKS sedan that never really impressed anyone. And on top of that, Lincoln was nice enough to give us a revised MKZ sedan for 2017, alongside its Ford Fusion cousin that will also be restyled. This revised model continues to follow the brand's modern design themes inside and out, but now debuts the new Lincoln corporate nose that will also adorn the new Continental once it hits the streets within the next year or so. It also gets an updated powertrain: A 3.0 twin-turbo V6 making 400 horsepower and 400 pound feet of torque, making the 2017 MKZ the most powerful Lincoln ever produced. Overall, while some initial reactions have been mixed, I must say I quite like the execution of this refreshed design, and the MKZ has definitely impressed me thus far. As I previously mentioned, it's better than anything Lincoln put out in the past. Plus, with Ford's new Sync 3 infotainment system replacing the frequently problematic MyFord(Lincoln) Touch system used in older models, I have no doubt the MKZ will continue to pioneer the future of the Lincoln brand, with some added help from the new Continental of course.

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

2017 Buick LaCrosse: Officially REVEALED!

Here it is! The 2017 Buick LaCrosse, officially unveiled at the 2015 L.A. Auto Show! As you can see, it appears as if the LaCrosse has not only grown in length, but also luxuriousness, and it rides on an all-new platform as well. My grandparents own a 2011 Lucerne and my mother has a 2013 Regal, and prior to that she had a 2006 Buick Terraza minivan, and a 2007 Lucerne CXS as well that had GM's famous Northstar V8 in it. So you could say we are quite the Buick fans in my household. I'm looking forward to seeing this new LaCrosse hit the roadways in 2016, as it now follows Buick's revised design language debuted on the Avenir concept car earlier this year. If you haven't seen that concept car yet, check it out! It's quite striking, and if it signals what else is to come from Buick in the next several years, we're in for quite a treat! Buick has been on a roll in recent years. They've even revived their signature "tri-color" red, white and blue emblem on this new LaCrosse, which means that logo is likely making a return to the U.S. market. It's only been used in the Chinese market in recent years. 

Things are continuing to heat up at Buick! Keep an eye on this brand.

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

2015 LA Auto Show

The "pre-game" for the 2015 LA Auto Show is happening NOW! And we're already getting a pretty good glimpse at some of the upcoming new or refreshed 2016 and beyond models that will be hitting dealer lots soon. Expect to see some posts about the show here, on Adam's Autos!

Copyright © 2015 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

2015 Toyota Camry Review

Pictured: 2015 Toyota Camry XSE 2.5 & 3.5

 2015 Toyota Camry Review

          When you’re TRULY the best, you don’t have to constantly proclaim it. Your history, your accomplishments, and reputation will do all the talking for you. Hold your course and make continuous improvements. And that is precisely the strategy Toyota uses with their best-selling Camry sedan. A top contender for decades, the Camry was refreshed for the 2015 model year, receiving updates to the exterior and interior. While these changes may only look skin deep, a refresh usually includes some other tweaks that make the car more solid overall. And in a segment as competitive as the midsized one that Camry competes in, keeping pace is crucial. Today: Let’s see if the Camry is still reigning supreme, on Adam’s Autos!

            My test drive of the 2015 Toyota Camry took place at Draper Chevrolet Toyota in Saginaw, Michigan, where Mr. Charles Dawson gave me the utmost assistance and attention while completing my test drives. He also knows a thing or two about Florida's various sports teams, and the dealership itself was recently renovated. So head his way, or check out www.DraperAuto.com if you are curious about the newest Toyota models or other inventory! They will take great care of you! Tell them Adam from Adam's Autos at www.adamsautos.org sent you!

Other notable interior features: JBL GreenEdge premium audio/w HD Radio, XM Radio & Gracenote, navigation, Bluetooth calling/streaming audio, paddle shifters, heated seats, push button start, & a power sunroof.

            I drove one trim level of the Camry, the XSE, or in Toyota speak, the sporty model. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Sporty and Camry in the same sentence? No way.” But it did feel somewhat livelier than past Camry models or non-XSE models. You even get paddle shifters on the XSE’s steering wheel if you aren’t yet convinced this Camry is trying to air on the more adventurous side. Other trim levels include the base LE, SE, XSE, XLE, and hybrid variants that come in LE, SE, and XLE as well. SE and XSE trims feature sportier exterior styling. Three different engines are available: a 2.5 4-cylinder, 3.5 6-cylinder, and a 2.5 4-cylinder in the hybrid variant paired to an ECVT (electronic continuously variable) transmission. The gas engines are paired to a 6-speed automatic. I test drove the non-hybrid 2.5 and 3.5 engines, and both had adequate power and were quiet while driving, although the 4-cylinder’s noises do intrude slightly more into the cabin. The 3.5 V6 is the engine that REALLY stood out, having ample power in every situation and being surprisingly fast too! Many testers have found the newer Camrys with the 3.5 can go from 0-60 in roughly 6 seconds, while still achieving solid fuel economy ratings.

            As I mentioned earlier, the Toyota Camry XSE I drove does feel sportier than past versions of the car. Handling is more than competent enough for daily driving. However, the brakes are quite soft, and given that the XSE is supposed to be the “sporty” model, I was expecting the brakes to grab a little harder. But hey, we’re talking about a Camry here. Toyota is very careful to not mess with a winning formula when it comes to the best-selling models in their lineup. And when you command a significant share of a particular market segment, why would you? Therefore, don’t expect to be swept off your feet as if this is some sort of automotive revolution. All other things considered, the ride is very smooth and the interior is quiet even at higher speeds. The seats are comfortable, although they offer no lateral support in turns (not like you’ll need it in this type of car), and there is ample room in the front and back for passengers. Interior storage is average and the driver’s armrest slides for comfort, but trunk space is truly ample, making this a great car for road trips and general transportation. The interior materials and design got an upgrade with the 2015 refresh, and I really liked the two-tone grey and black color scheme with suede inserts on the interior of one of my testers. It really did make the Camry feel more upscale! Coupled with the standard assortment of today’s luxury features (heated seats, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, navigation/Entune infotainment system, etc.), you might think you’re driving a Toyota Avalon instead of a Camry.

            So if you’re in the market for a new car, few would fault you for choosing the Camry. It’s proven to be reliable, safe, affordable, comfortable transportation for multiple decades now. In fact, my uncle owned a 1998 Camry up until a couple years ago that had over 200,000 miles on it and still got over 30 miles per gallon! A 1998! The 2015 refresh of the Camry has just positioned it to continue to remain a dominant force within the midsized car segment. If you’re a loyal Toyota Camry driver, you will be pleased with the upgrades and I feel it is worth it. If you’re simply shopping around: Don’t forget to put this car on your list!

Until next time: ROLL ON!

Grading

Engine Power/Economy: A-, 9 points (2.5 4-cylinder), A+, 10 points (3.5 V6)

Quietness: A, 10 points

Interior Quality & Comfort: A-, 9 points

Driving Dynamics: B, 7 points (2.5), B+, 8 points (3.5)

Cargo Capacity: B, 7 points

Overall: 42/50 (B, 2.5 4-cylinder), 44/50 (B+, 3.5 V6)

On ARich’s “Should You Buy It?” scale of Drool, Cool, Meh, or Bleh: It’s “Cool”

Other Specs

Engines Available: 2.5 4-cylinder (178 hp), 3.5 V6 (268 hp), 2.5 4-cylinder Hybrid (200 hp)

Fuel Economy Ratings: 25 city/35 highway (2.5), 21 city/31 highway (3.5), 40 city/38 highway (Hybrid)

Transmissions Available: 6-speed automatic, ECVT (Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission; Hybrid only)

Model Pricing (2016): $23,070 (LE 2.5) - $31,370 (XLE 3.5 V6)

Trim Levels: LE, SE, XSE, XLE, Hybrid LE, Hybrid SE, Hybrid XLE

Available Safety Systems: Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Braking, Rear View Camera, All Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain, Knees)

Crash Test Results: IIHS 2015 Top Safety Pick+

IIHS Offset: Good

IIHS Small Overlap: Good

IIHS Side: Good

Roof Strength: Good

Head Restraints & Seats: Good

Star Ratings: Frontal Driver- 4 Stars  Frontal Passenger- 5 Stars  Front Side Crash- 5 Stars  Rear Side Crash- 5 Stars  Rollover- 4 Stars

Key Competitors: All vehicles in the midsized car segment, which includes the: Chevrolet Malibu, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion Honda Accord, Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata, Volkswagen Passat, Subaru Legacy, & Nissan Altima

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