Lexus and The Black Panther - REPRESENTATION.

Marvel's Black Panther movie is set to break records and open minds!

Happy Black History Month! I believe we are in a renaissance period of Black awakening and empowerment. And nothing showcases this more than Marvel’s upcoming “The Black Panther” movie. Too often, African Americans are portrayed in a “negative” light in media... Thus, on the contrary, Black Panther is our moment to shine (even brighter)! 

Already, this movie is on track to be one of the highest grossing Marvel films ever. And with a soundtrack fully produced by Kendrick Lamar and the whole TDE cast (SZA Schoolboy Q, etc.), let’s just say our ears are in for quite a treat as well! But what’s a movie debut without some promotional tie-ins? Lexus and Marvel have teamed up to produce some movie-themed vehicles, with very specific goals in mind.

Driving Demand

On the bottom is the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept.
Is it me, or have Lexus' cars... Evolved?
Supposedly this will be a future flagship model.

There was a time where Lexus was one of the top-selling luxury brands in the United States. It’s a new day however, and consumer tastes have changed. Thus, Lexus is on a quest to attract a younger demographic to the brand to reclaim the top spot. One action involves creating “sportier-looking” products, seen most obviously in their corporate “Spindle Grille” (or “Predator Grille”, if you’re the sarcastic type). The other plan involves product placement, and you can expect to see the new LC500 starting prominently in The Black Panther.

While it’s evident that the U.S. population is aging, Lexus’ strategy doesn’t (and can’t) just hinge on appealing to younger buyers. Minority spending is increasing as well, especially African American spending. Marketing Lexus as “hip” in the right places moving forward is one way to connect with a potential base. And with so many Black millennials surely headed to the movies in a couple of weeks for The Black Panther, placing a special LC500 before the audience is wise exposure. Yet, there’s a risk as well.

Lexus' Black Panther themed LC500 has been making rounds
at auto shows this year.

Side note: It’s worth mentioning that Lexus intended to run a Black Panther/LC500 commercial during this year’s Super Bowl. I must’ve missed it...

Old Base, New Face

While in theory targeting people for better brand awareness is not new or weird, exploitation is. And to me, it just seems that Lexus needs to monitor their motives. They don’t want to come across as though they are merely marketing to minorities when it’s convenient. Such as when a movie debuts... But before now, they appeared unconcerned with their “boring” customer base. Lexus says they want to be a part of more conversations in diverse communities.

Spindle grille or "predator grille"? You be the judge.

On top of this, while trying to appeal to new audiences, there’s a risk of alienating old buyers. This is especially true when it comes to Lexus’ current styling language. Their large open mouth grille simply hasn’t registered quite as well with their tried-and-true buyers... Lexus’ LF-1 concept that was shown at the Detroit Auto Show this year honestly showed that they have no intentions of dialing it back either. Jeff Bracken, general manager and Vice President at Lexus, says he gets calls about the brand’s designs being too “aggressive” for traditional buyers. But yet, it’s a strategic move he says, so don’t expect it to change...

In my own opinion, I feel Toyota and Lexus are going too far out with their grille designs... Let’s just keep it in perspective a little more, please. Then again, they probably shouldn’t care too much what I think, since I’m not really in the market for a Lexus right now anyways...

For The Culture

All in all, I’m so glad there is so much hype around Marvel’s Black Panther movie. I’m glad to see African Americans and Africa portrayed in a strong light (far from the “s-hole” you might have been told it is...). I’m glad to see the auto industry jumping in, acknowledging the influence of minorities. And I’m proud of the progress we’ve made socially, despite various societal setbacks, even recently. Its all about forward progress! 

The Black Panther releases in theatres on February 16th, and the Lexus LC500 is on sale now with a starting price of $92,000. The LC Hybrid starts at $96,510.

I could go on and on, but let’s remain excited and lift each other up as we continue rolling on. Are you ready!? #knowyourhistory

Update: Black Panther has officially made over $1 Billion at the box office! Wakanda forever!

Update 2: Black Panther is now officially the highest grossing superhero film in the United States of ALL TIME! Now THAT'S the power of minority spending.

A Marvel indeed.

Copyright © 2018 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

The 2018 Chicago Auto Show

Another month, another auto show. This time, it’s the largest one in the nation - The Chicago Auto Show! We’re just coming hot off of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, so what can we expect from “The Windy City”?

Hopes High? Or Left Dry?

From top left: 2019 Ranger, Toyota TRD Pro models, VW Arteon,
and the new Ford Expedition. Honestly, Arteon sounds like a Pokemon
name to me, even though the car is cool. I wouldn't mind an Expedition either.

Well, not a ton else new will be new in Chicago... If you’re a fan of trucks and SUVs, rejoice! You’ll be seeing A LOT of those (again) throughout the Chicago Auto Show. If you recall, the 2019 Ford Ranger, Ram 1500, and Chevy Silverado debuted in Detroit. Toyota has rolled out some more aggressive editions of its TRD Pro 4Runner, Tundra, and Tacoma models in Chicago. Some autonomous driving tech as well will likely appear in places.

VW is showcasing the Artron, the CC’s replacement. It has a liftback design, similar to the new 2018 Buick Regal and Kia Stinger sedans. Ford showed off a refreshed Transit Connect coming for 2019 with updated tech, a new diesel engine and a 8-speed transmission. And Nissan is showing off the 370Zki, which based on their teaser video, may as well be a full-fledged snowmobile... Check the link for that. Honestly, an all-new 370Z or Frontier truck would be FAR more interesting.

Nissan 370Zki link: http://nissannews.com/en-US/nissan/usa/channels/2018-Chicago/videos/video-nissan-370ki-teaser

Beyond that, it’s pretty ho hum for MAJOR reveals. Personally, I wouldn’t mind checking out a new Ford Expedition. I like it’s styling and interior design, especially it’s rear passenger space and new cargo shelf system.

So here’s to more trucks and crossovers! Do share your own excitement and curiosity about upcoming cars as well.

Copyright © 2018 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Rare Rides! - Take 2

In this installment of rare rides, we have four rides that are unique in their own ways and capture various moments in automotive history. You just don’t see them often. Let’s dive in shall we?

1. 2011-2016 MV-1

Manufactured by Vehicle Production Group, the MV-1 was designed to be a wheelchair accessible specialty vehicle. It featured two available Ford-supplied engines, a 3.7 V6 and 4.6 V8, and was also used as a taxi cab. I rode in a taxi cab version in Chicago (pictured), I found its powertrain responsive. Not sure if it was a V6 or V8. One also passed me on the local roads back at home.

2. 2011-2014 Cadillac CTS-V Wagon

This was spotted in a parking garage after attending the 2018 Detroit NAIAS. While this one was dirty and appeared to have winter tires and rims on it (likely to protect the factory set from road salt), it doesn’t reduce the overall exclusivity of this car! The CTS Wagon is already uncommon, and spotting a V-Series is like seeing a unicorn jumping a rainbow! The 2nd-generation CTS-V came with a 6.2-liter V8 making 556 HP. 0-60 took 3.9 seconds for the automatic transmission, 4.1 for the manual. Dream car anyone?

3. 2001 Oldsmobile Intrigue

While not a super “rare” car in a traditional sense, what struck me about this ‘01 Olds was just how IMPECCABLY CLEAN it was. I only found one scratch on the body (bottom right picture)! When was the last time you saw an Oldsmobile THIS CLEAN!? Perhaps back in 2001! This vehicle was on sale at Suburban Cadillac in Plymouth, Michigan (not sure if it’s still there) and had Oldsmobile’s 3.5-liter “Shortstar” V6 good for 215 HP. The 2nd-generation Oldsmobile Aurora also used this engine. Prior to using this powertrain, the Intrigue used GM’s famed 3.8-liter V6. This particular Intrigue was on sale for $5,000 - not sure of the mileage on it. The Intrigue was produced from 1998-2002, and was the first car to die during the 2000s Oldsmobile phaseout. Admittedly, I've always had a soft spot for Oldsmobile in my heart. Its long been my favorite GM brand...

4. 2015 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen TDI

Again, this wouldn’t necessarily be on here as a “rare” car I imagine if it weren’t for the VW “Dieselgate” scandal. Someone obviously didn’t feel compelled to turn their TDI in for a refund, or either got it fixed and kept it. I wasn’t able to get a picture of the one I actually saw, (I was driving, SAFETY FIRST) but it was blue just like this one here. Given the popularity of compact crossovers in America right now, seeing one of these wagons, let alone in diesel form, is interesting to say the least. The Golf Sportwagen was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine.

Have you seen any nice or rare rides lately? Post your findings.

Copyright © 2018 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

The 2018 North American Car of the Year

Each year at the NAIAS, a panel decides the Car of the Year based on a variety of factors.

It’s the new year, which means it’s time for a new car of the year. Three finalists were announced: The 2018 Honda Accord, Kia Stinger and Toyota Camry, and one emerged victorious. Ladies and gentleman... Your 2018 North American Car of the Year is none other than: The Geo Metro. Whoooo hooo! Excited?

"Are you feeling it Mr. Krabs?"

Honda's Accord remains a strong,
well-rounded option in a
shrinking (but still popular) segment.

No, but in actuality it’s the 2018 Honda Accord. A competent contender all around, I’ve been very impressed with examples of the new model I’ve had a brief chance to spend a moment in as well. Acceleration is smooth from both the 1.5 and 2.0 turbo engines, although of course you should grab the 2.0T, and fit and finish and ride quality are excellent. I’m not surprised it won, taking nothing away from just how excellent the Stinger and Camry are.

Among other awarded vehicles include the redesigned Lincoln Navigator for 2018 Truck of the Year and the all-new Volvo XC60 for 2018 Utility of the Year. Which of these winners are you likely to consider?

Copyright © 2018 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Auto Show Season: LA + Detroit

Auto shows are some of my favorite events to attend, because of the people you meet and the new technology and products
you get to hear about!

Auto Show season is upon us, which means there’s plenty of reveals and new models to look forward to. Let’s look back at a few interesting models from the LA Auto Show and also look ahead to the Detroit Auto Show.

Los Angeles

From left to right: 2018 Chevy Corvette ZR1, 2018 Mazda 6,
2019 Subaru Ascent; The Mazda honestly is my favorite here.

The LA Auto Show took place last month, and we showed us a decent mix of new products. One such product is the Chevy Corvette ZR1 with a supercharged V8 making 755 HP. Pricing starts at $119,995, making it one of the most expensive and surely fastest Corvettes ever. 

Another iconic model up for redesign is the Jeep Wrangler, and it’ll offer more modern tech, diesel and mild-hybrid versions, and of course multiple off-roaring variants. The most interesting engine in this lineup is FCA’s new 2.0 twin-scroll turbo with 268 HP and eAssist technology.

Other notable models from the LA Auto Show include the 2019 Subaru Ascent, which marks Subaru’s first foray into the modern 7-passenger crossover market. It looks solid, although slightly bland I feel just like many of Subaru’s other models. Also, Infiniti’s all-new QX50 will use the first production variable-compression ratio engine, and Mazda’s 6 sedan sees a 2018 refresh that FINALLY brings a turbocharged engine with 250 HP, a more upscale interior, and revised tech and semi-autonomous safety features. I’ve been saying that if Mazda ever began to offer a turbo luxurious version of the 6, they’d be a serious threat. And here it is. I’m quite impressed, and the competition should be too.

Detroit

Although not taking place until mid-January, we already have details on some of what we can expect to see. It’s going to be a big year, with heated segments getting even hotter.

As noted in a previous posting, we can expect GM to highlight their renewed full-sized pickups. The 2019 Silverado has already been unveiled, so now we need to see what the GMC Sierra will look like. 

Kia's Stinger continues to make waves, and the new Veloster from Hyundai

wants to follow suit. A new Insight from Honda seems appropriate given the push for more "green" cars, but a new Avalon given how 4-door car sales are falling I question somewhat...

Additionally, there’s big new coming out of Hyundai Motor Group. The 2019 Veloster will be officially unveiled in Detroit, coming hot off of the reveal of the new Kona subcompact crossover in LA. Additionally, Kia’s Stinger sportback is nominated for the North American Car of the Year award, a first for the brand! It’s up against steep competition, the other finalists being the 2018 Camry and Accord sedans. We’ll see what the final results are soon.

Other debuts include a new Honda Insight, this one being a sedan, a face lifted 2019 Jeep Cherokee (long overdue, thank you FCA), the new RAM 1500, and an all-new Toyota Avalon. Are there any other models you’re hoping to see? Holly jolly, ‘tis the season: Auto show season!

Until our next trip, ROLL ON!

Copyright © 2017 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Blown Fuse & Midsize Mayhem: Ford’s Fusion on Death Row?

The Fusion has become one of the most recognizable names in Ford's lineup and the midsize sedan segment since its introduction in the mid-2000s timeframe. But is its future in jeopardy now?

UPDATE AS OF JAN. 3RD 2018: Fusion's 2020 redesign has officially been cancelled by Ford, casting further doubt on the model's future...

Since 2006, the Ford Fusion has been a key model for Ford and a big player in the midsize car segment. Not only did it help carry the company through the late-2000s economic recession, but it also was initially introduced to replace the aging Taurus within Ford’s lineup and gave the brand a midsize car that was finally competitive enough with the likes of the Toyota Camry. You get the point, it’s been an important model.

But fast forward a little over a decade later, and it’s a different picture... With sales down into double digit territory, Ford is apparently considering killing off the Fusion by 2020. Word is production will move to China from Mexico, with no models imported to America or Europe afterwards... WOW. What could’ve led to such a drastic turn of events???

Culprit: Crossovers

From left to right: 2018 Ford EcoSport, Edge, Escape and Explorer;
These vehicles are populating roadways more and more, making sedans
less viable for consumers due to their practicality.

Ford claims that they’re figuring out the key to making CUVs more fuel efficient. And it’s not just the blue oval accomplishing this I’ve noticed: EVERY automaker seems to be cracking that code these days. Thus, since crossovers already allow for a more practical design (now coupled with better efficiency), consumers are flocking to those vehicles in droves over 4-door cars now.

If Ford does go thru with this move and eventually drops the Taurus as well, the largest 4-door car they will offer in the United States after 2020 is the redesigned Focus.

Extra! Extra! Market Trends Tell All!

We could talk for days about this honestly, because this is HUGE news if you don’t realize it. Let’s break it down a little more.

What really gets me about this is how instrumental Fusion was to Ford during the recession, but now it has simply been deemed no longer viable. This makes Ford the 2nd American automaker in the last two years to announce they’re exiting the midsize market, after Chrysler dropping the 200 this year. So essentially, this American midsize car battle was just handed to the Malibu in the long run, which I feel is a very “ok” car. Not bad, but it doesn’t deserve the clear cut ‘W’ over the Fusion.

Ford's Taurus could also be in trouble... I've always viewed it as more
"dead weight" than the Fusion, because you see so few new ones where I am.

Another big picture concept to consider about this is market trends. Generally, a major move such as this pre-stages a larger trend seems like. Back in 2011, Hyundai/Kia were among the first automakers to switch to using all 4-cylinder powertrains in the Sonata and Optima, the company’s midsize sedans. Since then, it’s basically standard that all manufacturers have an “all-4 cylinder” engine lineup for their midsize cars, with the exception of a couple. Even the 2018 Accord (finally) made the switch. My point being that if automakers now start killing off these style of cars, it could pre-stage a larger trend of these “once popular” nameplates dying off. Buick LaCrosse, Ford Taurus, Hyundai Sonata, Cadillac XTS... All cars that have declined sharply in popularity and relevance due to the growing truck and crossover obsession.

As with almost any trend, we ought to be able to follow its trajectory somewhat. Ford believes this consumer shift is permanent. And signs of this trend of midsize cars declining were becoming evident earlier this decade, as Mitsubishi discontinued the Galant back in 2012 and didn’t replace it. While the Fusion has never personally been my favorite in its segment (Kia Optima and Mazda 6 share that honor), it’s clear it’s been an impactful model in several ways.

Many Questions, Few Answers

Perhaps one of the biggest looming questions is what is the fate of the Fusion's
uptown twin, the Lincoln MKZ?

As you can probably guess, there are many questions we could ask about this decision. Why totally abandon the Fusion and this market? Will it ever be replaced? What about MKZ production? I feel that even though this market is shrinking, abandoning it could be a mistake, as not everybody is warming up to the crossover craze. Share your thoughts as well.

Copyright © 2017 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Silver Lining: 2019 Chevy Silverado

2019 Chevrolet Silverado Trailboss

Trucks are almost as popular as crossovers these days. So it should come as no surprise that Chevy has unveiled a new Silverado to stay competitive in the full-size truck segment. This almost certainly means that a new GMC Sierra is coming soon too.

Truck It Up, Truck It Up

Although similar in overall shape, the 2019 Silverado’s frame is all-new, and GM promises that the new truck is lighter and more efficient by using a mix of new materials. Quite appropriate, given more stringent fuel economy regulations that are forthcoming. A turbocharged engine is rumored also. My initial impressions are positive, although the styling of some of Chevy's recent cars takes a little longer to get use to in my opinion...

In addition to revised looks, the upcoming Silverado (and we can assume by extension the GMC Sierra) use higher strength steel in their beds for further weight savings. This is a direct response to Ford using aluminum in the F-Series, but strikes me as somewhat odd at the same time, because I recall hearing something about “carbon fiber” being considered for use at some point... And while expensive, I just don’t see steel + V8s as equaling a ton of weight savings.

Chevy vows to continue using steel on key parts for safety and durability purposes. That much does make total sense, as Chevy’s “clearly not-staged” TV commercials demonstrate that holes can be punctured into a truck bed made of weaker material if you drop boulders into it... Just in case you were ever curious, you know.

Finding New Roads Near You... Soon 

Chevy has been in the truck business awhile - 100 years in fact!
Here's the 2018 Centennial Edition Silverado and Colorado.

Expect more info on the 2019 Silverado at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. What else would you like to see GM do with their full-size truck lineup?

Copyright © 2017 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Happy Holidays 2017

Its the season of gift giving, giving thanks, and snow. Even if you wish you were somewhere warmer, are missing someone, or stuck in traffic, from me to you and all of your crew, I wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Let's roll into this new year heads held high and eyes wide open to all that we've learned in 2017!

-Adam

Car Facts: Chevrolet Malibu

Car Fact: The modern Chevrolet Malibu has outlived all of its DIRECT "sibling" vehicles within GM's modern portfolio (‘97-99 Oldsmobile Cutlass, ‘05-10 Pontiac G6, and the ‘07-09 Saturn Aura). While some GM products shared their platform with the Malibu (ex. Buick LaCrosse and Regal shared the Epsilon II platform), these models are not essentially the same car as the Malibu like the others were.

In sort of a cruel irony fate: The 2007 Saturn Aura heavily influenced the Malibu's 2008 and onwards design, but was discontinued (with the entire Saturn brand) after just 3 model years. Both the Aura and Malibu won the North American Car of the Year award back to back (2007 & 2008 respectively).

Copyright © 2017 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Winter Driving Advisory

Given the snow that's already hitting parts of this state for the Christmas holiday, it's always good to remember: Ice and snow, take it SLOW!

Also remember: AWD/4WD will help you get going, but it WON'T help you stop. Basically all modern cars have 4 wheel brakes, ABS, traction and stability control, etc. Larger vehicles also tend to roll easier due to a higher center of gravity. Time is always your best ally!

Electric Records - But Not Good Ones...

Tesla's financial woes have compounded, and the situation is further complicated by reported reliability issues... What implications could this have on the company's future?

UPDATE: Tesla's head of battery engineering, Jon Wagner, recently left the company, and Tesla also unveiled its highly anticipated semi truck and a new roadster.

Tesla, steady on a mission to become the best electric car company ever, recently posted a record-breaking $671 million Q3 loss. This time last year, the company recorded a $22 million net profit. OUCH...

According to the company, ramping up production of the Model 3 caused the staggering profit setback. Tesla now says they’ll produce 5,000 Model 3’s a week by the first quarter of 2018. However, I have my doubts... And also, I feel Tesla’s financial woes can be attributed to other factors and may just be ramping up themselves. 

The Model 3 is supposed to be
affordable for the masses.
But is it truly?

For example, the Model 3 is SUPPOSED to start at $35,000. But this is for the short range battery, good for roughly 220 miles. The long range battery model (good for 310 miles) will likely be the one that’s built most often, and that automatically tacks $9,000 onto the base price, taking it to $44,000. And that’s before you factor in other available options (any paint color other than black cost $1,000) and Tesla’s “production bottlenecks” they’ve admitted to facing. All of a sudden, the Model 3 isn’t sounding quite as accessible to the masses as originally planned...

ON TOP OF ALL THAT, the Model X has been plagued with quality issues, bringing the company’s production procedures further into question. All of this combined with Tesla’s haphazard leadership, firing of 700 employees, and constant fund borrowing makes for a messy situation.

Any Way Forward?

Is there potentially a way out for Tesla? I feel it’s to early to say if this is a sign of worse things to come, such as the brand shutting down. As of now, Tesla still has plans to produce a “Model Y” small SUV in 2019 or 2020. But a good start will be getting the Model 3 produced in sufficient enough numbers, followed by focusing on improving the quality of current products like the Model X. An affordable Tesla sounds like a great idea, but only if it’s executed well. 

In the meantime, someone get Tesla an XL band-aid and a financial advisor... PLEASE.

Copyright © 2017 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Did You Know Facts - Hudson Hornet, Disney Pixar's Cars

Car Fun Fact: The Hudson Hornet classic car I shared a few weeks ago is actually one of the main characters in Disney's Cars movies - Doc Hudson!

Link to Hudson Hornet post: http://www.adamsautos.org/2017/10/on-this-edition-of-unicorn-rides-we.html?m=1

Copyright © 2017 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Consumer Reports Reliablity Rankings

Consumer Reports is a non-profit organization that compiles data on a variety of consumer products, including cars.

ICYMI: Consumer Reports recently rated the most reliable and unreliable car brands. Some data is missing for some, such as Mitsubishi, I’d assume because they don’t sell new cars in large enough numbers. 

In the top 5 are Toyota, Lexus, Kia, Audi, and BMW, with the Kia Niro hybrid being the most reliable new car rated. At the bottom is Cadillac, with the Escalade now being among the least reliable new cars you can get.

BMW and Kia in the top 5 is quite interesting I say. It's a new day! Follow the link for other brand ratings.

Link: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/car-brands-reliability-how-they-stack-up/

Oil Change Due... When Again?

So apparently my car was due for an oil change yesterday... 33 years from now haha.

But seriously, I still have another 150 miles to go before the recommended oil change mileage. And even then, I'll have over 40 something percent of my oil life left. My rule of thumb is that I generally don't change my oil until that percentage is in teens or until I'm about to extensively travel.

Given that I only average roughly 3,000-4,000 miles a year on my car right now, your conditions may vary on when you need to change your oil of course. I recommend knowing your driving patterns, your car, and consulting your owner's manual for recommended changing intervals for fluids.

Copyright © 2017 Adam's Autos, All Rights Reserved.

Talent Shoutout!

Ran into this brotha at SEMA '17, and he's got skill! He's a self-employed artist and will draw your favorite car for you. Follow his Instagram and check out his work, @hitchensartwork