Happy Thanksgiving 2016

Happy Thanksgiving! Remember to be thankful each day, and enjoy all the food and football you can today with your friends and family.

5 Interesting Cars from the Los Angeles Auto Show 2016

Another week, another auto show! This year’s auto show in L.A. has shown off some very interesting concepts and upcoming production models. It’s always exciting to think of the future and picture ourselves in the latest rides. Thus, here are five interesting cars from the Los Angeles auto show that we’ll see on roadways sometime soon!

1. 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio & Stelvio Quadrifoglio: Roadway Name, New to the Game

Italian genes run deep, even in the name of this new SUV from Alfa Romeo.

The Stelvio will be Alfa Romeo’s new SUV assembled in Italy and rides on the same platform as the Giulia. Three trim levels will be offered, starting with the base Stelvio, then Stelvio Ti, and the top-of-the-line Stelvio Quadrifoglio performance model. Word is that the Stelvio Quadrifoglio will have enough unique features and tuning to where it could be considered its own model. Throw in that model’s 505 horsepower 2.9-liter turbocharged V6 engine borrowed from the Giulia Quadrifoglio, and imagine that this top model will live up to those expectations. The lower trim levels of the Stelvio will utilize a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four-cylinder engine paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Aluminum largely comprises the makeup of the Stelvio, and all-wheel-drive is available. Why wouldn’t it be on an SUV, after all? Up to 60 percent of the torque can be sent to the front axle if needed, and the system is linked to the Alfa DNA Drive Mode in the car. You’ll be able to select from Dynamic, Natural, and Advanced Efficiency modes to modify things such as throttle response and boost pressure on the Ti and Quadrifoglio trims. In terms of the interior and available features of the Stelvio, leather seating with contrast stitching, push-button start, a rearview camera, 7.0-inch TFT screen, and a power rear hatch are all standard. Also, all-wheel-drive is standard, a plus if you live in places with nasty weather. Some available options are a 14-speaker, 900-watt Harman/Kardon audio system and various rim options ranging between 18 to 21 inches.

Overall, this model looks intriguing. I love the black rims, and paint on the SUV, as both combined really seem to set this design off. However, I initially thought that this was a very compact hatchback at first glance, and that may turn off a few buyers. Additionally, no pricing or on sale date has been announced yet, and Alfa Romeo has a history of teasing us and then making everyone wait forever for their products it seems like… Regardless of when this model may actually show up, at least we can relish in the fact that we actually have an idea of what Alfa Romeo’s portfolio may actually look like.

2. 2017 Cadillac CT6 Plug-In Hybrid: Big Luxury, Smaller Footprint

For the time being, the CT6 is running nearly unopposed in its segment as a plug-in hybrid full-sized executive luxury sedan. The picture in the bottom left is from a Shanghai auto show showcasing the CT6's plug-in hybrid system.

Manufactured in China, the Cadillac CT6 plug-in hybrid is relatively unique. It has very little competition here in the United States in its class outside of the Mercedes-Benz S550e and Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid. Its only other competition will be smaller, non-luxury electric and hybrid cars. However, I would expect that other manufacturers, such as Hyundai’s new Genesis luxury brand and maybe even Lincoln’s new Continental, will follow suit eventually and introduce hybrid and electric luxury car rivals that will give this version of the CT6 a run for its money.

The CT6 plug-in hybrid will have an 18.4-kWh battery pack that powers two 100 HP electric motors. This is expected to give the car an EV range of 30 miles and an MPGe rating of around 65. Both of these motors are also supposed to take the CT6 up to a top speed of 75 mph on electric-only power, which is impressive. After that point, the car’s regular engine kicks in to supply more juice. What you’ll find under the hood of this big electric Caddy is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that when combined with the dual electric motors, makes 335 horsepower and 432 pound-feet of torque. Good numbers, especially when you consider that this is essentially equal to or better than the other engines that the CT6 offers in its gas counterparts. This powertrain will be paired to a CVT (continuously variable transmission) and unfortunately, all-wheel-drive won’t be offered on this model. Likely due to its incompatibility with various hybrid components under the vehicle.

Pricing of the regular 2017 CT6 starts at $53,495, but the new plug-in hybrid will start at a hair over $76,000 before federal tax incentives. For that price, you get a nicely equipped, unique, and efficient luxury sedan with features such as heated and cooled seats and a panoramic sunroof. For all the audiophiles out there, I’m sure Cadillac will offer their 34-speaker Bose Panaray sound system as an option as well (if it’s not standard). Given that the CT6 is still a relatively new player in the executive luxury car segment, it’ll be interesting to see how this entire lineup fares in the coming years given its promising driving dynamics and architecture. I had a chance to briefly sit in a new Cadillac CT6 not long ago, so check back for that video in the future.

3. 2018 Ford EcoSport: Mini-Me SUV

After being curiously absent in the subcompact SUV segment for the past several years, Ford is finally bringing the EcoSport to the United States. But not for some time still...

The subcompact SUV segment is on fire these days, and almost every manufacturer in the United States has had at least one entry in this segment except Ford it seems like. Suzuki, who’s not even active in the North American market anymore, even has had an entry and technically beat everybody to this trend roughly a decade ago when they introduced their SX4 hatchback back in 2007. Thus, it was clearly time for Ford to throw their hat into the ring. Enter the EcoSport (pronounced ECHO-Sport), which has already been on sale elsewhere for some time. But it’ll be new to us here in America.

Ford is very confident in the EcoSport’s potential success here, partially because it’s been so successful globally. And I believe that they’re spot on in their assessment. For one, it looks like a baby Escape, which already sells quite well here in the United States. And additionally, the segment it competes in is in high demand and it’ll likely be competitively priced. All factors that work in this new model’s favor. Two engines will be offered on the EcoSport: a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder Ecoboost engine, and a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder. The 2.0-liter engine will be paired with all-wheel-drive, both engines will be paired to a six-speed automatic transmission, but final output figures of both aren’t, well… Finalized yet.

On the interior, Ford’s conventional design language can be seen in use here and works well with the two-tone scheme that was shown off at the auto show on SES trim levels. I really like the multilayer storage system in the rear of the EcoSport a lot, and there’s over 30 different storage cubbies around the interior! Push-button start is available and an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system is smack in the middle of the dashboard and runs on Ford’s Sync 3 system, which by all indications is far improved over its predecessor, MyFord Touch. Other available options include a 675-watt 10-speaker audio system. However, personally I’m no fan of the whole “floating touchscreen” design that’s been popping up in more cars, such as the EcoSport and Mazda’s lineup of cars. It looks a little “aftermarket” to my eyes. Additionally, the swing out rear door seems a little unconventional to me for the American market. A lift-up hatch might be more space efficient, but I must admit, that hiding the release handle for the door under the reverse light was clever.

Overall, this is a good effort and I don’t doubt it’ll do fine in its segment. Look for the EcoSport to go on sale in early 2018. Yes, that’s still another entire year and some change away, I know. But remember: Better late than never.

4. 2018 Jeep Compass: A New Direction for An Old Name

The new Jeep Compass is an old name, but this new design is much more mature in nature, from top to bottom.

Here’s a name you’re likely familiar with: Jeep Compass. This model has been on sale since I was in middle school, and that was literally a decade ago now. To say it was time for a redesign would be an understatement, as the outgoing Compass was based on the Dodge Caliber hatchback, which was last produced for the 2012 model year. Despite how dated the platform was, Jeep couldn’t stop selling enough of the Compass and Patriot duo. Both are part of a hotly sought after segment right now: Compact SUVs. But the Compass name will be the one to continue on, and this new model will slot in between the subcompact Renegade and compact Cherokee in Jeep’s lineup. It’s almost as if Jeep is carving out their own segment to compete in.

One of the first things you’ll likely notice is the handsome styling of this new Compass, inside and out. Overall, this new model continues the “baby Grand Cherokee” theme of the previous model, but with a much more upscale, mature twist. It also doesn’t look “funky” like the slightly larger Cherokee may appear to look to some. Trailhawk models add signature styling elements such as red tow hooks, exterior badging, and unique front and rear bumpers. Trailhawk models also benefit from additional ground clearance, off-road tires, a special painted hood and roof, and receive Jeep’s “Trail Rated” badge. Base Sport models come well equipped with features such as push-button start, a backup camera, power windows and mirrors, and Bluetooth with a 5.0-inch Uconnect touchscreen. A larger updated 8.5-inch Uconnect touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is available on higher trims, and Limited trims come standard with nearly everything, from heated leather seating to remote start. Much of the latest safety equipment is available as well, such as blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking.

Under the hood, only one engine will be available on the new Compass, and it’s a familiar one. Chrysler’s 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder good for 180 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque is the only option. Front-wheel drive will be standard, and a six-speed automatic or manual transmission will both be available. However, the manual will be available on the lighter-duty all-wheel-drive system. A different 4x4 system is exclusive to the Trailhawk models. Opting for the automatic transmission with Jeep’s Active Drive system will get you a nine-speed automatic transmission, which has had its sour spots for Fiat-Chrysler in the past. Every all-wheel-drive Compass will come with Jeep’s Selec-Terrain drive mode system, which allows you to optimize your drivetrain for snowy, muddy, or sandy conditions. Personally, I would love to see a turbo four-cylinder make its way into this new Compass. I imagine that the Tigershark engine may prove to be underpowered, especially when off-roading. I can understand why Chrysler didn’t put a V6 option into this new model, as that would potentially cannibalize sales of the slightly larger Cherokee.

Overall, I think the new Jeep Compass is a great effort. Then again, it’s not that hard to improve over the old Compass. With the right marketing and the availability (hopefully) of an additional engine option over the base 2.4, I think that this vehicle will continue to be successful. I might even have to check one out myself. Pricing will most likely fall somewhere between that of the Renegade and the Cherokee in Jeep’s lineup. The all-new Compass will release next year, but will be sold alongside the old Compass for a short time as well.

5. 2017 Mazda CX-5: Zoom-Zoom With Room to Spare

The new Mazda CX-5 continues to expand upon the brand's Kodo design language and clearly takes quite a few cues from the larger CX-9 crossover too.

While the 2017 Mazda CX-5 may look all new, its actually riding on the same platform as before. What’s truly new is the car’s exterior and interior design. Mazda refers to some of their design inspiration as “reflection-based surfacing”, or in other words, “How will the environment reflect into the car and interact with it?” This inspiration complements the evolution of the brand’s Kodo design language well, and is perhaps seen best in the CX-5’s grille, which draws its upscale inspiration from its CX-9 big brother.

Under the hood, Mazda’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 184 horsepower returns as the sole powertrain for the new CX-5. Also, Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control system that seeks to improve steering response has been added to the car. The biggest news, however, is that Mazda recently announced plans to finally bring their diesel technology to the United States after years of promising. It’s been confirmed that CX-5 will be the first to get their new engine (it was originally supposed to be the Mazda 6). A 2.2-liter turbocharged Skyactiv-D clean diesel engine will be available in the second half of 2017 on the CX-5. It should be good for 170 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, and tuned to meet more stringent U.S. regulations for nitrogen oxide emissions. Both engines will be paired to a six-speed automatic transmission, and the six-speed manual may return eventually. Mazda claims that this diesel engine will make the CX-5 of the most efficient in its segment, including hybrids.

Now speaking of hybrids and alternative energy, Mazda will also introduce an electric vehicle in 2019 and a plug-in hybrid model in 2021 to meet new fuel economy regulations. Which existing models those may be or if they’ll all be entirely new, we have yet to find out.

Back to the CX-5: On the inside, the theme of “upscale” continues with new features such as heated rear seats and a revised heads-up display. Mazda says that the dashboard is designed to be driver-centric and that the company is focused on people. Thus, improving visibility outward, making the gauges more vivid with a 4.6-inch color display, and lowering the car’s overall center of gravity some should engage drivers and passengers even more so than the old model, which was already touted as one of the most enjoyable rides in its segment. Expect this model to release next year.

Overall, I really like the design language of the CX-5 and the direction that the entire Mazda brand is headed. The sporty and premium direction seems to fit them well, and they seem to have found a design language that works for the brand and satisfies consumers. That would explain why their vehicle redesigns are more “evolutionary” than “revolutionary”, which is a-ok in my book. If they can offer more powerful engine options in all of their products and are successful with their diesel mission following Volkswagen’s mishap in the U.S., Mazda can only go up from here.

Final Impressions

So, what are your thoughts about this year’s Los Angeles auto show? What have been some of your favorite rides? Your least favorite? Is there any model you’re looking forward to? Express your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned for more industry developments and updates! Until next time, ROLL ON!

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

Power-Up: Nissan Sentra Nismo Green Lit

Nissan's new Sentra Nismo seeks to take on competitors such as the Focus RS and establish itself as a more interesting player in the compact car segment.

Recently, Nissan announced plans that they were going to being producing a turbocharged version of their popular Sentra sedan. This extra bump in power was much needed, as the 138 horsepower put out by the standard 1.8-liter engine is often considered to be middling. Especially when paired to the Sentra’s CVT. The SR Turbo Sentra uses the same 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine from the Juke and makes an additional 50 horsepower and 49 pound-feet of torque (pushing that figure up to 177). Better numbers overall, but what will likely excite people even more is the Nismo model that will be coming to market next year. Will it finally offer the performance and driving dynamics individuals have been craving in a small Nissan sedan?

Center Stage

Unveiled during the L.A. Auto Show, the Nissan Sentra Nismo will be the first full-on application of the Nismo performance label in the United States. Elsewhere, Nismo has been applied to the 370Z and GT-R sports cars and on the Juke. Exterior styling has been tweaked front and rear to suit the new Sentra’s more performance-oriented demeanor, and the standard 18-inch wheels are the largest ever offered on a Sentra sedan. Nissan plans to take on other compact performance cars with the Sentra Nismo, such as the Ford Focus ST and upcoming versions of the Honda Civic. This is a good thing, as more diversity seems to lead to more creativity. Perhaps more manufacturers will follow suit with new upgraded performance models of their own (*cough cough* Cruze SS *cough*).

Under the Skin

Under the hood of the Sentra Nismo is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 188 horsepower and 177 pound feet of torque.

Powering the upcoming Sentra Nismo will be the same 1.6-liter turbo found under the SR Turbo model. That’s somewhat a bummer, as I expected horsepower output to be increased at least somewhat. With some modifications, however, I imagine the car could surpass 200 horsepower and really begin to put a smile on some buyers’ faces. Other notable mechanical upgrades the Sentra Nismo will receive are increased body rigidity and suspension and steering tuning to compensate for more spirited driving. Note: The previously mentioned new SR Turbo model already received stiffer front springs and stiffer front and rear dampers as upgrades. So, these Nismo upgrades are on top of those ones that were already applied. Therefore, I would expect quite a stiff ride out of the Sentra Nismo. But then again, the potential gains in performance and handling may offset that. I imagine that the CVT and manual transmission options may both carryover (though a manual would be preferred for most on a Nismo I’m sure). On the interior, one will find new performance seats, carbon fiber-style instrument panel inserts, Nismo badging, Alcantara and suede accents, along with other trim-specific materials.

From the looks of it, this interior on the Sentra Nismo is much improved over the base models of the Sentra. I approve.

Nissan says that Sentra sales are up, and that they’re looking to grow in this performance segment. Who knows, this just may be the model to do it for them. What are your impressions? Look for the Nissan Sentra Nismo to release with a price tag of less than $25,000 in January 2017.

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

3 Cool Cars from SEMA 2016!

If you love cars, you probably dream of customizing one in some whacky way and selling it for some serious money someday! If not that, then you at least probably dream of owning something that is unique and gets you a ton of attention. Look no further, because some of the wildest, most eye-catching automotive creations out there can be found at the SEMA show! Each year, this show takes place in Las Vegas, Nevada and draws both domestic and international buyers. There’s all kinds of networking opportunities available for those there, but the event isn’t open to the public. Thus, attending this show someday could be something you put on your bucket list perhaps!

That all being said, here’s three of my favorite cars I saw online from SEMA 2016:

1. Dodge Durango Shaker concept

This here should intrigue your mind just a little bit! Rumor has it that we may see an SRT version of the Durango soon with the 392 Hemi under the hood. It may seem silly that a family crossover vehicle would sport performance like that, but this is Dodge after all. And this fully functional Durango Shaker concept in Dodge’s classic B5-blue color may somewhat hint at the upcoming model. Dodge, however, has cautioned people and said don’t read into this too much and that they’re just “having some fun.” They must’ve had quite a bit of fun, as there are Viper seats for all three rows on the inside, Hellcat airflow headlights in place of the fog lights on the outside, dual center tailpipes, and 22-inch rims complimenting a sport-tuned suspension and other styling cues such as an all-black roof and black American flags. It certainly looks like no other Durango you’ve ever seen before! And who knows what this means for a potential SRT model that’s possibly in the works.

2. 1958 Chevy Corvette

There’s always just something about a Corvette, and this one is no exception. Beautifully maintained, this Vette belongs to Heartland Customs and has an LS7 V8 under the hood and a 5-speed automatic transmission with a Hurst short-throw kit. It also has an independent suspension with adaptive dampers, making it decidedly modern and stealthy all in the same instance. What particularly caught my eye was the cream interior. You just don’t see something so beautiful even on cars that are new! You really can’t beat the classics oftentimes.

3. The Batmobile

Ok, let’s face it, who isn’t a fan of Batman? He’s had some of the most interesting, if not slightly ridiculous, automobiles over the years. And this version of his iconic Batmobile is no exception. All its possibly missing is him at the wheel.

Did you follow SEMA 2016? If so, what did you see that caught your eye?

Until next time, ROLL ON!

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

Old Segment, New Face: At Last, The Atlas Arrives

VW's seeks to now capitalize in a segment that it initially seems to have forgotten about with their new Atlas crossover. Its basic platform will help serve as the platform for future products as well.

Do you want a large crossover SUV that seats six or seven people, but at the same time have no desire for a Chevrolet, GMC, Dodge, Honda, Toyota, Ford, Mazda, Nissan or any other veteran player in the segment? Well, Volkswagen may just have some good news for you. In an earlier post on Adam’s Autos, I discussed how VW is hard at work trying to revise their product lineup and that a new (previously unnamed) 7-passenger crossover was among the planned upcoming models. Now, we can officially put a name with this new face. Recently, the automaker unveiled their upcoming 2018 Atlas crossover, and as the saying goes: Better late than never.

While not everyone’s heart will be set ablaze by the arrival of the Atlas, it’s hard to deny that the absence of a true “family hauler” in VW’s lineup was quite noticeable. Especially given how competitive the large crossover SUV segment is now and the sheer number of entries in the segment too. Originally previewed back in 2013 (under the guise as the CrossBlue concept car), the new Atlas will now put to rest claims the Volkswagen was totally ignoring this segment and will serve as the brand’s largest model sold in the United States. Additionally, the Atlas will have a U.S.-exclusive name and be built right here in the U.S. at VW’s Chattanooga, Tennessee plant.

Tailor Made

Being a model that is specifically tailored for American families and roadways, you can expect that features and powertrains will also follow suit and appeal to American buyers. A 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder making 238 horsepower will be standard on entry-level Atlas models. I imagine that while this sounds like that will be enough power on paper, the optional 3.6-liter VR6 engine that produces 280 horsepower will likely prove in testing to be the superior choice for a vehicle of this size. Both engines will be paired to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. VW’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system will be optional on 6-cylinder models, but 4-cylinder models will be front-wheel-drive only. All the latest technological and safety features, such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Fender premium audio, VW’s Digital Cockpit, automatic emergency braking (includes pre- AND post-collision braking), active lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and more will all either be standard or available as options on certain trim levels. Among the unknown details are fuel economy specifications and pricing. However, Volkswagen claims that since the Atlas will be produced in the United States, it will be able to be priced competitively within the crossover SUV segment. If this truly does give VW a competitive advantage in the showroom department, then it’s imperative that the Atlas drives and is put together well so it will win in the appeal department too.  VW also claims that the Atlas will indeed drive better and have superior fit and finish when compared to its competition. However, doesn’t everyone say this initially? I say time will tell, especially once actual production models come off the assembly line.

So now, what are your first impressions of the new Volkswagen Atlas? Do you think it will be successful in the already crowded crossover SUV segment? Personally, while I think VW was long overdue for an entry into this segment, I’m not entirely sure we needed another family-oriented crossover option this late in the game. Especially since there are already so many successful entrants, such as GM’s trio of crossovers, Ford’s Explorer, and Honda’s Pilot to just name a few. To say the Atlas has steep competition would be an understatement. And it’s somewhat (in my eyes) bland styling doesn’t help its case. Although available LED running lights, LED headlights, and available LED taillights will all certainly add to the crossover’s upscale ambiance. The side profile of the Atlas also appears to be more “rugged looking” than some competitors, and thus may attract some people who are, again, looking for something a little less “conventional” than say, a Chevy Traverse. Despite the company’s timing, the Atlas is a solid first attempt an American-tailored, family-oriented crossover with plenty of features and technology to go around. Look for it to arrive at VW dealers in the spring of 2017.

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