Farewell, Scion

On October 24th, another brand officially bit the dust. Some Scion models, such as the iA, have already transitioned over to Toyota. Others, such as the tC coupe, are likely gone forever. Are there any Scion models you have personally owned or will miss?

3-in-1 = Automotive Fun: Ford's Bronco, A Super Toyota, & A New CR-V Comes To Be

Everyone loves getting a new car. And lately, there’s been news of some old favorites potentially making a comeback and also some big redesigns in the works! So exactly what models could just be on the horizon? Today on Adam’s Autos, we take a quick look into the future and find out!

A Blast from the Past: Ford’s Bronco Returns!

Note: This is a concept art of the Bronco.

Many people have fond memories of towing or off-roading with their Ford Bronco, and hope to see the day again when the company not only offers capable family sedans and work trucks, but off-road ready vehicles from the factory as well. Fortunately for these individuals, those days might just be right around the corner again, as it has been recently confirmed that the Bronco nameplate is scheduled for revival sometime around the 2020 model year!

Originally introduced in the mid-1960s and discontinued in 1996, the Bronco has historically competed with various small/midsized Jeep models as well as some other midsize and large SUVs, such as Z71 2-door Chevrolet Tahoes in the 1990s. Present-day competition is stated to be the Jeep Wrangler, which makes perfect sense as 2-door Tahoes and most of the other competitors that the Bronco used to duke it out with are long gone now. Additionally, just like the old days, this new Bronco may be built in Wayne, Michigan according to UAW contracts. This is likely not happenstance or for nostalgia sake, but mostly due to production opening up on that assembly line. The upcoming all-new Ranger pickup truck will likely be built in the same facility as this new Bronco too.

I have to say, based on the renderings shown, its intriguing to think what might become of this new model in a few years. And if this new Bronco offers proper V8 power, I think that buyers are in for a treat and that what’s left of its competition is in for a big run for their money! Are you one of the ones pumped up? We’ll see what other details come out about this model in the coming months as development continues.

Toyota’s Supra: The Super Toyota           

The 1995 Toyota Supra. These cars are often tuned and customized nowadays.

I assume there are many people already familiar with the Toyota Supra and some of its legacy. In case I’m wrong, here’s an extremely brief rundown. The Supra was a sports car made by Toyota up until the 2002 model year. Production started in 1978, and throughout the car’s history, it’s been popular in various racing arenas due not only due to its durability, but to its functionality as well. In the 1990s, sales of coupes began to decline to current levels we see them at now, and thus began the end of the Supra. But not so fast! As recently, it’s been reported that the Supra may make a return in the future!

Toyota's recent FT-1 concept car could be giving us a subtle sneak peek at where the new Supra could draw some inspiration from.

So, BMW + Toyota = Sports Car?
Word is that this new Supra is reportedly going to be a joint effort between the BMW and Toyota, as BMW is looking to replace the slow-selling Z4 sports coupe. This new model so far is stated to be larger than the Z4, and may be called the “Z5” over at BMW. Surprise, surprise! But a reason that this car was made larger may also be because BMW intends to offer a smaller model than the Z5, and so that this new Supra can ride on a stretched platform. Both explanations make sense to me. Regardless of this new construction, the new car won’t be any heavier than its outgoing predecessor, and a four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and performance hybrid powertrain are all supposed to be offered. That’s interesting to note, but is consistent with both the performance and sporty them of the Supra/Z5 and also industry trend towards more fuel efficient vehicles. In the case of the Supra, it will use all four-cylinder engines in its more basic models, but its high performance engine will be an all-new twin-turbo V6 supposedly making around 400 horsepower!

           

With numbers like that, I’m sure the new Supra won’t disappoint if Toyota actually does come through and make a new one. However, I personally haven’t been digging the styling of recent Toyota vehicles, regardless of how reliable they are. But I doubt the company will risk messing up a nameplate with such a storied performance history. How do you feel about it? I’m interested to see if we’ll get more details at the upcoming auto shows or not.

This was Paul Walker's 1993 Toyota Supra from the first Fast and Furious movie. Essentially the car that started it all, it was auctioned off in 2015 for $185,000 after his tragic death.

Did You See the New CR-V?            

The redesigned Honda CR-V was recently unveiled and seeks to bring more efficiency to the small SUV class while improving upon some of its own prior shortcomings. Can it do it?

Honda’s popular CR-V small SUV will be redesigned for 2017, and its bringing back a feature we all missed so dearly in older cars of yore: A volume knob. Yes, Honda heard everyone’s cries about their touch sensitive volume controls in their newer cars and responded by reverting back to a good old-fashioned knob so we properly could crank up the tunes. Perhaps it’s true that style just can’t beat functionality in the long-run.            

I actually like this new interior a lot. And the inclusion of a volume knob again on the main head unit for the radio has won tons of people over already. I can see a lot of inspiration from the new Civic sedan here for sure.

Among other changes: A lot of everything. Except for maybe the car’s basic silhouette. At least to my eye anyways. The rear of the car now incorporates a new chrome bar and LED stoplights on higher-end models (I assume) that look pretty nice, although the tailgate itself looks awkward I think the way it just “drops off” essentially. I’m also not too crazy about the wheels on most new Hondas as of late, which look a little out of place on some models. Compare that to the rims on some new Kias, which I’ve really been liking lately. Dimension wise, the wheelbase is 1.6 inches longer and rear-seat passengers have 2.1 more inches of legroom than in the outgoing 2016 CR-V. Cargo space also now equals that of the Ford Edge, which is a bigger SUV overall. The interior layout looks to be fresh and draws inspiration from the recently redesigned Civic sedan. Not a bad starting point in my book, as I like the new Civic a lot in many ways.

Family Ties           

Speaking of the new Civic, this new CR-V will borrow one of its powertrains from it compact cousin. All models above the base LX will use Honda’s new 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. In the 2017 CR-V, this engine will make 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. The LX models will use a revised version of the 2.4-liter four that can be found in the outgoing CR-V. Trim levels for the new CR-V include LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. That all likely sounds very familiar to Honda owners. What may surprise a few owners is that Honda’s LaneWatch camera system is gone, and replaced by a blind spot information system. All trims will come standard with LED running lights, keyless entry, auto climate control, steering wheel audio controls, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) paired to the base 2.4-liter four cylinder. So no, it won’t be a rocket by any stretch. But it’ll likely save you a buck at the pump while being very reliable and practical in the process.

Eh. I'm not too crazy about the wheel or rear hatch design on this CR-V, but the overall vehicle looks to have stepped up its game nicely. I'll have to test one eventually for myself to really get a more personal feel for it!

Pricing is not available right now. But the 2017 Honda CR-V arrives at dealers in December of this year.

That's all folks! Until next time: ROLL ON!

Copyright © 2016 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Fill Up! How Does A Gas Nozzle Know Exactly When to Stop?

Its been lingering on your mind since you were 5 hasn't it? How exactly does the gas pump know when to cut off? Is it magic? Well wonder no more, because Adam's Autos has found the answer here in this video! Get that daily fill of knowledge! Watch and learn at the link below!

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFKOD3KRkZs&index=4&list=WL

Haikubaru

For all of my writers, poets, and car lovers out there haha. Here's everything in one for you.

Summer's Setting: The Buick Verano Says Adios (Quick Review)

From my throwback files: My tester 2013 Buick Verano. I stopped at my old elementary school to take pictures.

Following up my other recent posts on cars we’re saying goodbye to in the near future, here’s another odd departure in my book: The Buick Verano. The smallest Buick currently on sale in the United States, the Verano was introduced in the 2012 model year and filled a void in the brand’s lineup that was last occupied by the Skylark in the 90s. It looks as if there will be a 2017 model year Verano, although I imagine it’ll be an abbreviated run. Quick fun fact: “Verano” means “summer” in Spanish. So now, why do I think this is an odd decision that this model is being discontinued in North America? Because Buick’s sales figures haven’t been bad in recent years, and the Verano is selling especially well in Canada. The Verano’s sales did fall this year in the United States, while the compact Encore’s sales rose. Overall, Buick’s sales as a brand fell 5.45 percent through June 2016.

The "eyelash" chrome accents on the trunk seem to highlight the Buick logo on the trunk. I found the Mocha Bronze Metallic color on my tester with Cashmere leather to be a very nice combo. This model even had back-up sensors and a rear view camera. LED taillights would be nice, however.

I had a chance to test drive a new 2013 Verano, and I was satisfied (though not totally blown away) at the effort that was put into the car. Garber Buick in Saginaw, Michigan assisted me that day and has been excellent throughout the years with helping my family get the best deals possible on our new cars. I highly recommend them! My brown tester was fully loaded with everything, and had navigation, leather, blind-spot monitoring, push-button start, heated seats and steering wheel, Bose premium sound, and a sunroof. The car drove smoothly and was mostly quiet overall, just what you’d expect from a Buick. However, it wasn’t particularly sporty or quick, a stark contrast from Buick’s other somewhat-compact sedan offering, the Regal. Granted, my tester wasn’t the turbocharged model, which uses a version of the 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder that’s used in the Buick Regal. But rather, it had a decent (but noisy at high RPMs) 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 180 horsepower and gets a little over 30 mpg highway.

Push button start was standard on this top-of-the-line Verano, as was navigation, heated seats, XM Radio, and a suite of other convenience features. It was a very luxurious, though cramped, environment.

Even turbo models don’t come with a sport-tuned suspension or any appearance upgrades besides a little red “T” on the trunk that lets you know you’re driving a special Verano. But rather, to satisfy those who want a little more “style” and “flare” in their compact Buick, the brand introduced a Sport Touring trim for the 2016 model year. Personally, I think it looks nice. However, if you’re looking for the Sport Touring specific styling treatments (such as blacked out rims, etc.) with the turbocharged engine, sorry… Not possible. Other impressions I had of the Verano was that while the interior was comfortable up front, the rear seat area was INCREDIBLY tight, even with the front seats moved forward. Trunk space was fine, although the rear end might look even more upscale by including LED stoplights and turn signals on higher trim levels. Same goes for the front end, which would look more upscale with the addition of LED running lights.

Setting Sail
So again, why do I think saying goodbye to the Verano is strange? Besides its sales numbers holding up well in Canada and Buick’s successful global resurgence, compact cars are very hot right now. And for years, the Verano has had a monopoly in its segment, as its next nearest competitor, the Acura ILX, doesn’t sell nearly as well as it does! I see these little Buicks all over, and I can literally go a few weeks without seeing any Acura ILXs on the road. You would think Buick would want to keep an asset like that in its lineup. Sure, you could argue the also-compact Encore SUV crossover is selling very well too. But I’m talking specifically about compact SEDANS for now. Additionally, a redesigned Verano is going on sale in China, and like most new Buicks, looks as if it’s going to be a very solid car. As I previously mentioned, in contrast to Canadian market figures, Buick’s sales in the U.S. fell some earlier this year. This puts Buick in somewhat of an ironic situation, because a new Verano could very possibly inject some new luxury spirit into a seemingly aging lineup.

The redesigned Chinese Buick Verano. Unfortunately, it appears as if we won't see it here in the United States.

Alas, this is all mainly based on my analysis of the situation. And based on my impression, the Verano is a decently luxurious and feature-packed sedan that should satisfy many buyers in its segment. What is your impression of the Verano and of the overall Buick lineup right now? Personally, Buick has become one of my favorites brands. It’ll be interesting to see if this model is replaced or brought back in the future after some redevelopment.

Grading

Engine Power/Economy: B- (7 points)

Quietness: A- (8.5 points)

Interior Quality/Comfort: B- (6.5 points)

Driving Dynamics: B (7.5 points)

Cargo Capacity: B (7 points)

Overall: 36.5/50 (C)

Other Specs:

Engines Available: 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (180 horsepower), 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (250 horsepower)

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Fuel Economy Ratings: 21 city/32 highway (2.4), 21 city/30 highway (2.0 turbo)

Model Pricing (2016): $21,990 (Base 1SV) - $29,595 (Premium Turbo)

Trim Levels: 1SV (Base), Verano, Sport Touring, Leather, Premium Turbo

Available/Standard Safety Systems: Blind-Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Various Airbags (Front, Side, Rear Seat Side, Curtain, Knees), Tire Pressure Monitor, Advanced Brake Assist, Anti-Lock Brakes, Stability Control, Traction Control, Rear Backup Camera, Rear Park Assist

Key Competition: Acura ILX, Volkswagen Jetta (SEL)

Crash Test Results:

IIHS Offset: Good

IIHS Small Overlap: N/A

IIHS Side: Good

Roof Strength: Good

Head Restraints & Seats: Good

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

On the Adam's Autos "Should You Buy It?" scale of "Drool, Cool, Meh, or Bleh": The Verano is "Meh"... So lease it or rent it.

Copyright © 2016 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Degenerated: Hyundai's Genesis Coupe Axed

There's just something about a coupe. Too bad Hyundai's never captured its fair share of the market.

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is no more. In case you're curious, there’s a couple of logical reasons as to why this sporty coupe was discontinued. For one, it was just lingering around in Hyundai’s lineup enjoying meager sales success. It never seemed to particularly impress anyone in the sports car world, despite the fact that it offered two solid engines: a turbo four-cylinder and a 3.8-liter V6, plus rear wheel drive. All that being said, however, it was a much more solid effort than Hyundai’s past sporty coupe offering, the Tiburon. One of my favorite YouTube car reviewers, SaabKyle04, actually owned one for a few years himself. So I wouldn’t fully fault someone for considering one, as you could likely get a great deal on one now, plus the added security of Hyundai’s strong 10-year warranty.

Another reason the Genesis Coupe is going away is because the Genesis brand is launching. For those that are unfamiliar with Genesis, this is Hyundai’s new luxury car brand. Selling the Genesis and Equus on the same lot as Accents and Elantras when their prices can top $60,000 sets up somewhat of a paradox for buyers, as some might not be used to seeing such expensive vehicles in a Hyundai showroom if they haven’t been near one in the last eight years. Thus, Hyundai Motor Company felt the need to spin-off the vehicles into their own cars. The Genesis sedan will become the G80, the flagship Equus will become the G90, and other models will follow in the coming years. By the year 2020, an all-new sports coupe, compact luxury sedan, and two SUVs are reported to all be in production under the Genesis brand. Until then, owners of the Genesis Coupe who want to upgrade will either have to shop around or wait until the new coupe is released.

The Genesis brand, by Hyundai Motor Company, will launch with the G80 and G90 sedans at first, but will expand over the next few years to include a more diverse portfolio. Hyundai's goal is to compete more effectively with brands such as Audi and Lexus, while giving customers more value per dollar at the same time.

Do you think this new Genesis brand will be successful? While startups traditionally have a mixed success rate, the Genesis brand is a very noble effort on Hyundai's part. Especially given the public’s overall reception of the standalone Genesis car in past years. Yet, I'm curious about how Genesis branded cars will be received long-term, as they’re still going to be sold at Hyundai dealerships for the time being. But these new cars are without a doubt sharp, so I'm looking forward to testing some myself in the future and seeing them on the roadways! Let me know what your thoughts are too.

Copyright © 2016 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Trending Up: Buick's Avenir

Buick recently announced that a new top-of-the-line trim level for their cars is coming. But it isn't Ultra, Super, or GS...

Are you familiar with GMC’s “Denali” line? Did you like Buick’s Avenir concept car from the 2015 Detroit Auto Show? If so, then you may be happy to hear that Buick intends to offer a new trim level of their cars called “Avenir” in the future. From what I understand, this new trim would be Buick’s equivalent of GMC’s Denali, or essentially, it would be what the “Ultra” trim level used to be in the early 2000s at Buick. These new high-end models would feature larger wheels, unique grilles, more premium features, and other upgrades to set them apart from other lower trim level Buicks.

Buick has consistently been one of the industry’s fastest growing brands, both domestically and internationally. Thus, it makes sense to me that executives would be looking for ways to continue this growth. Buick’s average buyer age is on the decline, and more individuals are coming from other brands to Buick showrooms. Buick also notes that more women are considering the brand’s cars, and that people who buy the Enclave usually choose the two highest trim levels: Leather and Premium. I think this is a smart strategy to further move Buick upmarket and make them a serious contender with key competitors such as Lexus.

When you look at the 2015 Avenir concept car, you can immediately see where Buick's upcoming models are pulling some of their inspiration from.

Buick has already implemented some of their recent concept car design cues, such as their revised 3D waterfall grille with a chrome bar going through it, into upcoming models (see the 2017 LaCrosse, already on sale in many places). Without a doubt, we’ll see other bits of these design cues make their way into other upcoming Buick models. In case you were wondering, the word “Avenir” is not simply a mashup of “avenue” and any other word. Rather, it actually means “future” in French. Personally, I think it would’ve been great to have seen the Avenir name used on a new flagship sedan placed above the LaCrosse in Buick’s lineup and the “Ultra” or “Super” names brought back as the top trim for models instead. But regardless, I’m sure that this 100+ year old brand’s future is plenty bright if they keep down their current track.

Pricing for the new Avenir trim level is not yet available.

Copyright © 2016 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.