Adam's Autos

Welcome to Adam's Autos! "Where I rate autos to help YOU find an A-Rate ride!" Adam’s Autos is a creative medium dedicated to providing consumers with the appropriate information to make an informed new or used automotive purchase. Additionally, Adam’s Autos highlights and promotes local businesses, alongside a variety of today’s latest automotive trends and topics. I also discuss my own personal cars and projects. So fasten your seat belts! We're going for a ride!

Monday, December 21, 2020

Volvo Wagons: Throughout the Years

Volvo's wagons are very nice vehicles and a solid alternative to SUVs. Here's how Volvo's wagons have evolved throughout the years. I really like the V90 and I'm usually no big fan of wagons.

Friday, December 18, 2020

GMC SUV Barrage

Apparently all of the GMC SUV owners decided to get pizza this night. Hungry? Howies! You also get to see how the Acadia has changed in its design (in the rear at least.) #Acadia #Terrain #GMC

Tuesday, December 8, 2020

Cadillac Escalade: Throughout the Years

Here’s a visual collage of the Cadillac Escalade throughout the years - from 1999 to 2021. For good reference, I also included the Escalade EXT truck. Quite a transformation, but its still king of the hill. The 2021 Escalade in the final picture I saw at McDonald Cadillac in Saginaw, MI.

Bonus: Look at the photos below of the Cadillac Allante, Eldorado and CTS for another visual of how Caddy's design language has evolved throughout the years. The Allante was partially assembled in Italy by Pininfarina and then flown over to Detroit for completion. It was a very expensive model for GM to produce and its quite rare to see one these days.

Tuesday, November 3, 2020

Here’s the 2022 Genesis GV70

Genesis needs SUVs, and the GV70 is a sharp one that seeks to build on the growing success of the
GV80 and compete with the likes of the BMW X3.

At last, the 2022 Genesis GV70 has been revealed! For those of you unfamiliar with Genesis, it’s Hyundai’s luxury brand. Genesis really needed some SUVs in their lineup given how popular they are now. The midsize GV80 is just starting to go on sale in the U.S., and is receiving very positive reviews. The compact GV70 will compete with vehicles such as the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Cadillac XT4 and Tesla Model Y.

Various trims will be offered, including a GV70 Sport model. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Genesis’ new 3.5L twin turbo V6 under the hood of that one. I expect the 2.0T or new 2.5T to be one of the standard engines. RWD and AWD will be offered. The new Genesis design language looks good here, with split headlights and taillights as well as a big crest grille. Inside, the interior looks minimalistic and luxurious with a giant touchscreen, in typical modern-car fashion.

Tell me: Are you looking for a compact luxury crossover? This is the Korean spec model, but I’m sure we’ll know more about the American-bound GV70 in the coming months. Until then, Genesis continues to bring the heat and I might just have to add this to my shopping list down the road!

Don't Forget: VOTE!

Its voting day! Please exercise your right!

Friday, October 30, 2020

Ford adds a 12-inch Touchscreen to the 2021 Edge

The Ford Edge is an old product now, but its receiving some fresh updates for 2021.

Bigger is better, right? Ford definitely thinks so, evident in the fact that they decided to kill off all of their cars in favor of SUVs and trucks. But that’s old news now. What’s new is a standard 12-inch touchscreen in the 2021 Edge. This giant new screen will run Ford’s Sync 4 infotainment system and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus more USB/USB-C connections for good measure.

Pricing for the 2021 Ford Edge hasn’t been announced, but I imagine it’ll be similar to the 2020 model (‘20 MY base price: $31,100). No word if the 2021 Lincoln Nautilus will receive any similar updates. Other changes to the 2021 Edge include a couple new colors and new wheel designs. I find it funny that Ford would make changes like this to a car so late in its product cycle, but it does keep the Edge fresh and more “luxurious-feeling” going against newer rivals such as the Chevy Blazer and Honda Passport.

I’ve already reviewed the current-generation Ford Edge model (when it was called the ‘Sport’ instead of the ‘ST’). Here’s the link so you can read more of my thoughts: https://www.adamsautos.org/2018/09/2018-ford-edge-sport-in-depth-review.html

Update 11/20/20: The 2021 Lincoln Nautilus WILL in fact receive similar updates like the 2021 Edge. Some of its updates include a revised front fascia, a new 13.2-inch touchscreen inside, and Lincoln's "Piano Key" shifter for the interior as well.

Monday, September 7, 2020

Labor Day 2020

I want to take a moment to do two things with this post. First, on this Labor Day, I want to thank all of our essential workers for their dedication to their jobs in this unusual year. Whether you’re a healthcare worker or a grocery store bagger, you are appreciated. Thank you. For those of us that have the day off, please enjoy the day with your loved ones responsibly.

Second, I want to encourage everyone to vote this year. We know that there's a lot to consider on every ballot, so just recognize your rights and exercise them. Let your voice be heard and be the change.

Saturday, August 1, 2020

2021 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport/How I Would Buy It: 2021 Bronco Sport

The 2021 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport are looking to shake up the off-roading scene and rekindle some nostalgia.

Ford has taken the wraps off its highly anticipated Bronco and Bronco Sport SUVs, so let’s talk about each briefly and then I’ll show you which one I’d consider for myself.

Bronco:

The revived Ford Bronco is aimed at the Jeep Wrangler and is built on a high-strength steel platform. There will be two and four-door models and engines offered will be a 2.3L turbo inline four-cylinder making 270 HP and 310 lb.-ft. of torque and a 2.7L turbo V6 making 310 HP and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. While the 2.7L V6 will have a 10-speed automatic, the 2.3L I4 will have a 10-speed automatic or an optional 7-speed manual transmission. Broncos will only have 4 wheel-drive with an independent front suspension and a solid rear axle. The advanced 4WD setup has a two-speed electric transfer case with a heavy-duty Dana rear axle and available front and rear locking differentials. The roof and doors on both the two and four-door Broncos can be removed for a “drop top style” ride. Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment will be standard and includes several preloaded trails and allows users to share their off-road journeys as well. Of course, many skid plates, rock rails and other accessories will be offered through Ford (and I’m sure aftermarket as well as time passes).

Bronco Sport:

The Bronco Sport is aimed at the Jeep Renegade, Compass, and Cherokee among other “rugged” compact crossovers, such as the Toyota RAV4 Adventure and RAV4 TRD Off-Road. Unlike its big brother Bronco, the Bronco Sport is only offered as a four-door model. Trim levels are shared with the larger Bronco and are called Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands, and the limited run First Edition. Lower trims will have Ford’s 1.5L EcoBoost 3-cylinder engine making 181 HP and 190 lb.-ft. of torque. Badlands and First Edition models get a 2.0L EcoBoost turbo I4 making 245 HP and 250 lb.-ft. of torque. Both engines have an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Bronco Sport will have an independent front and rear suspension, and on the Badlands and First Edition models you will get an advanced 4x4 system with a twin-clutch rear-drive unit and differential-lock. Drive modes are called “G.O.A.T.” (which means ‘goes over any type of terrain’ - this is also found in the bigger Bronco) and include Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Sand. Mud/Ruts, Trail Control, and Rock Crawl drive modes are included in the Badlands and First Edition models. Ford Co-Pilot360, which is Ford’s active safety package and ADAS, is standard across the Bronco Sport lineup.

Ford seems to be turning the Bronco into its own family within the Ford lineup. Reservations for the Bronco and Bronco Sport can be made for $100 on Ford’s website. You can build your dream Bronco Sport now. Speaking of which…

How I Would Buy It: 2021 Bronco Sport

The bigger Bronco isn’t quite my style, but here’s how I’d get a Bronco Sport.

-Trim: Outer Banks

-Exterior Color: Alto Blue ($395)

-Interior Color: Ebony/Brown Leather Seats

-Features: 4WD, power passenger seat, reverse sensing system, heated seats, heated steering wheel, cargo mat, Sync 3, SiriusXM Radio, front and rear floor liners, class II trailer tow package ($495)

-Price: $35,095

Verdict: To me, this trim strikes the best value in the Bronco Sport lineup, since it has everything I’d personally want. 4WD, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, leather seats, and rugged looks make for a compelling package, along with sharp blue paint. Jeep would be smart to offer larger engine choices in the Compass, specifically.

Will you be reserving and buying a Bronco, and are you excited for its return? The off-roading game is about to get interesting!

Bonus: Here are some photos of the Bronco Sport and Transit Connect I saw testing on the highway! Could this mean a hybrid Transit is coming? And it looks like Jeep is planning a future HEMI V8 Wrangler as a response to the 2021 Bronco as well.

SPOTTED: Ford Transit Connect and Bronco Sport prototypes

It looks like a HEMI Wrangler (and maybe Gladiator) could be coming...

Its Amazing that the Pontiac Aztek Looks Almost Normal Now

Perhaps one of the most controversial vehicles ever, the Aztek seems to have inspired some modern SUV designs.

In the age of crossovers, you often hear people complaining that “everything looks the same”. However, I’d argue that there are actually some pretty unique SUV designs out there. And all these aggressively styled, flashy, modern SUVs have one unique predecessor to thank: the Pontiac Aztek.

Throwback: The Pontiac Aztec and Buick Rendezvous were similar, but the Buick came across as more conventional.

For those of you that need a refresher: the Pontiac Aztek was an SUV produced between the 2001 and 2005 model years that was based on GM’s U-body minivans (the Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, and Oldsmobile Silhouette). It came standard with a 3.4L V6 engine and could be optioned with AWD and even a lifestyle tent that attached to the rear of the car. Its largely considered one of the ugliest vehicles of all time and holds the dual distinction to many as being the car that began Pontiac’s final decline into oblivion by 2010. A part of me feels the Aztek was ahead of its time on the crossover trend. Buick also made a version of the Aztek called the Rendezvous starting in 2002, although its styling wasn’t quite as… “controversial” let’s say. The Aztek was replaced by the Pontiac Torrent for the 2006 model year and Rendezvous was replaced by the Buick Enclave after the 2007 model year.

And that’s where we get to the meat of this post. For all the hate the Aztek got in the 2000s, there are a lot of SUVs now that emulate its once-bizarre styling. In particular, the split headlight trend that is going on now in the industry is worth noting.

Look at Hyundai’s entire SUV lineup for example:

The 2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee:

The face on the new Chevy Blazer and Trailblazer, also GM products:

Somewhat the Genesis GV80:

BMW X7:

2021 Nissan Rogue:

Lynk & Co:

And the new Mazda CX-30, which actually is a good looking crossover, BUT - it has a ridiculous amount of black lower body cladding like the Aztek had:

Bonus - Let’s not forget the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, which ripped its rear styling directly from the Aztek:

And there are/will be others I’m sure. But to me, this just shows us two things. For one, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Because this whole split headlight and large grille trend is DEFINITELY NOT my cup of tea… But hey, it’s a look that sells! So, there must be something the masses like about it – maybe because it looks more aggressive/rugged. And two, society really does move in “waves” as I call it, or trends. This might be a trendy look now, but 10 years from now, who knows? Maybe we’ll all love sedans and coupes again.

Until then, thank your lucky Azteks for your high-style inspired SUV. Walter White would be proud.

Friday, July 3, 2020

Social Distancing + Summer 2020

Unbothered. #takeahike #Telluride #Summer2020

SPOTTED! 2021 Ford F-150 & Mustang Mach-E

Seen in Metro Detroit - The 2021 F-150 and Mustang Mach-E

SPOTTED (at dusk/night) - the 2021 Ford F-150 and 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E electric crossover.

Ford recently reported that the Mach-E will charge 30% faster than originally quoted and also make more power than expected. Ford has also opened the order books for U.S. buyers. Previously, you could only place reservations for the Mustang Mach-E.

Meanwhile, the 2021 F-150 was recently unveiled and will feature six different powertrains and a new hybrid model for the first time. However, no word on the F-150 EV yet.

The 2021 Ford F-150 (top) will feature a desk in the front seats that can be used when the shifter is folded away. The Ford Mustang Mach-E (bottom) will feature a 15.5-inch touchscreen and B&O premium audio. Both vehicles will offer Ford's next generation Sync 4 infotainment software. What are your impressions of each? Is using the Mustang name on an EV SUV too controversial?

Tuesday, June 23, 2020

Two Recent Reveals: The 2021 Nissan Rogue and Lexus IS

One sedan and one crossover enter the ring. Who will leave with the cash crown? I'm gonna bet on the crossover, given that Nissan sells A LOT of Rogues every year vs. Lexus selling IS sedans.

Both the 2021 Nissan Rogue and Lexus IS have been unveiled, so let’s talk about both a minute.

2021 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Nissan Rogue is boxier in its design overall. For some, this might be a plus, as this generally means you have more interior space to work with along with a more “rugged” appearance. I personally can dig the overall look besides the front. I’m not a fan of cars that have a split headlight design (see: Pontiac Aztek, pre-2019 Jeep Cherokee, most new Hyundai SUVs, etc.). Powering the 2021 Nissan Rogue is a 2.5L I4 engine paired to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This combo is good for 181 HP and 181 lb-ft. of torque. I’m sure this means the Rogue won’t be a rocket 0-60 at all, but it will have improvements of one to two MPGs according to Nissan, and who doesn’t like getting 30 MPG? Trim levels will be S, SV, SL and a new Platinum trim that has a 12.3-inch digital gauges and quilted leather seats. Nissan’s ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous system is offered on the SL and Platinum trims, but other ADAS such as blind-spot detection is standard even on base models. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive will be offered.

Overall, its looking like the Rogue will be an improvement on the outgoing model, which was definitely getting old and drove basically like a wet sponge to me. I feel like Nissan should offer their VC-Turbo engine on the new Rogue and a “sporty model” to go with it, like a Rogue SR. A hybrid model wouldn’t hurt as well. The 2021 Nissan Rogue will go on sale this fall.

2021 Lexus IS

With the Lexus GS bowing out after 2020, the Lexus sedan lineup needed an injection of fresh sporty to keep it viable. Enter the 2021 Lexus IS. More aggressive styling due to updated head and taillights, as well as its grille helps the IS stand out more in its segment. Engines are the same for 2021 and rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive will be offered. The base RWD IS300 has a 2.0L turbo I4 making 241 HP, the AWD IS300 has a 260 HP version of the 3.5L V6 offered, and RWD and AWD IS350 models have the 3.5L V6 that makes 311 HP. F-Sport models can only be had on the IS350 now and a Dynamic Handling package is new. For 2021, the IS gains an inch in height and width as well as suspension and steering tuning changes. I’m glad to hear about all of this, because from my experience, Lexus vehicles drove pretty boring. Maybe this will liven things up. Other upgrades include standard Android Auto/Apple CarPlay (finally), both the standard 8.0-inch infotainment screen and optional 10.3-inch infotainment screen are now touchscreens (FINALLY AGAIN), and upgraded driver assistance tech, such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control that can read speed limits now.

The old IS was horribly outdated in a segment that is losing ground to compact luxury crossovers. But this is a handsome update, and I think it will help Lexus stay relevant and eat up customers that might be sad of the GS’s imminent demise at the end of 2020. The new IS will also go on sale this fall.

Which of these cars are you most interested in? Now, we just wait for the official reveal of the 2021 F-150 and Bronco.

Monday, June 8, 2020

Show Me the Car Facts #FactFridays

Time for an expanded edition of "car facts" on a few car models.

Its been awhile since I've posted any car facts, so here's three car facts just for the heck of it. Stay safe and well out there.

Fact 1

Jaguar E-Pace (top), Jaguar F-Pace (bottom)

Did you know: The Jaguar E-Pace is a compact crossover SUV from Jaguar (not to be confused with I-Pace, the all-electric Jaguar crossover). However, what’s interesting is that the E-Pace is actually heavier than the midsized F-Pace crossover (4,035 lbs. E-Pace vs. 3,913 F-Pace) despite it being a smaller vehicle. See the photo below.

Jaguar E-Pace Weight (top), Jaguar F-Pace Weight (bottom)

Fact 2

2020 Toyota Camry TRD

Did you know: Now that the Subaru Legacy has lost it’s 6-cylinder boxer engine for its 2020 redesign, the Toyota Camry is officially the LAST mainstream midsized sedan to offer an available V6 engine in America (excluding the Buick Regal GS Sportback, which I consider one class above - and its going away after the 2020 model year anyways).

All other midsize sedans now offer exclusively 4-cylinder engine lineups. Hyundai and Kia started this trend back in 2011 with the redesigned Sonata and Optima, respectively. Both were available with a 2.4L four-cylinder and a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder.

Prior to the 2020 Legacy dropping it’s 6-cylinder engine, Nissan’s Altima lost its optional 3.5L V6 when it was redesigned in 2019. This is all a sign of the times in my eyes, as sedans continue to decline in popularity vs. SUVs/crossovers and trucks and as automakers strive to comply with tougher fuel economy and emissions requirements. Guess I’ll be holding onto my ‘08 Saturn Aura 3.5L V6 a little tighter and a little longer...

The 2020 Toyota Camry’s 3.5L V6 makes 301 HP paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission only. New for 2020 is the Camry TRD, which is more “performance focused” than past Camrys and comes with an upgraded suspension, black exterior trim, red interior trim, and the aforementioned V6 - albeit with no increase in actual horsepower output. We’ll see how long the Camry’s V6 hangs on.

Fact 3

Did you know: Toyota has roughly a 20% stake in Subaru. They collaborate on various vehicles and technology, such as the BRZ/86 (Scion FR-S). They will work on AWD and electrified vehicle tech moving forward, as well as a 2nd generation of the BRZ/86.

Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 (previously the Scion FR-S)

Tuesday, June 2, 2020

Black Out Tuesday - Black Lives Matter

All,

America is hurting, but your voice and your actions wield power. Support your black brothers and sisters. Take time to reflect on your privilege. Most importantly, seek to understand. #blackouttuesday #blacklivesmatter #saytheirnames

Saturday, May 30, 2020

How I Would Buy It: 2020 Kia Stinger

The Stinger GT was released for the 2018 model year by Kia and features a liftback similar to an Audi A7.

Let’s flashback: The year is 2018 and the Kia Stinger has taken the world by storm, with its 365 HP TTV6 and successfully beating competitors such as the BMW 4-Series in 0-60 contests. To this day, the Stinger is still a sharp sedan, although the hype around it has seemingly cooled off. Sales are trending down, and this was BEFORE the coronavirus pandemic. A refreshed/restyled Stinger is due in 2021 with more power, but word is it’ll use the same 2.0T 4-cylinder and 3.3TT V6 engines.

Honestly, I won’t lie - I haven’t been the biggest fan of the Kia Stinger... I was hoping it’d grow on me, but it hasn’t. I like its sibling, the Genesis G70 better and would get a 2.0T version of that car ultimately. For me, the Stinger’s styling is somewhat overdone (fake vents, the long red taillight accent, etc.) and for such a large car, it feels like you get less room inside than you’d expect, especially in headroom w/the available sunroof and in cargo space. To top it off, I drove the twin-turbo V6 Stinger around a track Kia set up at SEMA in 2017 and it just didn’t blow me away… It felt too heavy in turns to be “sporty”, but it was definitely very powerful with strong brakes in a straight line. The Stinger drift competition that was held at SEMA was very cool. In contrast, the G70, which rides on the same platform, drives and handles more like a “true sports car” in my opinion. Plus, you have the added benefit of owning a “luxury branded vehicle” and all associated dealer benefits (for those of you that care).

To the Stinger’s credit however, it’s meant to be a “GT car” - a smooth driving, stylish, long-haul cruiser type of sedan that also just so happens to handle relatively decently. Not a full-blown "sports car" per se. It’s possible I wasn’t fully aware of that definition and that has caused me to be biased against the Stinger some. When considered under the definition of a GT car, Stinger largely succeeds at its intended mission.

…But you didn’t come here to hear me talk about why I don’t care for the Stinger. You came to hear about why I WOULD get one. Its on my shopping list for 2021-2022. There’s really only a few reasons: Overall, I DO like the Kia brand, you can get Stingers for a decent deal now, it has optional AWD and it’s the “coolest Kia”. So, given that, and assuming I have a change of heart about the Stinger vs. G70, here’s how’d I’d personally buy a Stinger:

My Build

I added a few extra accessories on Kia's build tool, such as "paint protection" to equal $600, which would roughly be the price of getting my rims painted black on the Stinger GT-Line I'm guessing. Its interesting, because there are many competitive incentives available that make the Stinger a good deal now. This was NOT the case when the car came out in 2018.

-2020 Kia Stinger GT-Line AWD, 2.0T I4 255 HP 8-speed automatic

-Color: Panthera Metal (Grey), no charge; Black Leather, no charge

-Features: AWD ($2,200), wheel locks ($60), mudguards ($115), cargo tray seat back ($130), alloy door sill plate ($130), carpet floor mats ($150), remote start push ($495), black rims (~$600? - I added extra accessories for this since it's not listed on the Kia website)

Price: $38,005

I spec’d the car this way for a few reasons. I don’t normally like cars with black leather, but the only way you can get red leather on this car is to add the Sun & Sound Package for $2,900. This package also includes Harman/Kardon premium speakers and navigation among other features. However, you can only get red leather with three paint colors on three trim levels – grey, white or black paint on the GT-Line, GT or GT2 trims for 2020. Thus, you literally cannot get a Stinger with red paint and red leather (not since the 2018 model year). You also get a sunroof if you add this package, and that reduces your headroom in an already cramped feeling interior. I say skip this package, settle for black leather. You may save some weight too, allowing the Stinger to handle better - ya never know. We'll see if Kia changes this configuration up for 2021.

You don’t have to pay extra for Panthera Metal paint, and to me it’s the most interesting color between the black, white and grey hues. Snow White Pearl paint costs an extra $495. I’d black out the rims, which from what I can tell will cost about $600. I also would add a black spoiler to the car, yellow brake calipers, and would consider blacking out the roof and tinting the windows. I’m not sure what it would cost to add all these things.

One of my pet peeves with Kias is how they limit you to certain colors or packages based on trim level, even more so than other automakers. This limits the amount of customization you can really do with your Kia. But this allows Kia to keep build complexity and inventory down, especially on a low volume product like the Stinger. That’s better for dealers/profits in an era where SUVs and trucks rule supreme.

Verdict

Between the two cars, I say the G70 is the sportier pick (bottom).

The Kia Stinger remains a unique car for a unique few. The idea of a “$40,000 to nearly-$60,000 high-performance Kia that competes with BMWs, Audis and Dodge Chargers” may still make some people chuckle and roll their eyes. But Kia truly makes a variety of solid cars these days, Stinger included. If you’re craving something “different” with a moderate dash of sporty, the Stinger might be for you. Keep the price in the high $30,000 to low $40,000 range, and I think you have a nice deal. But any more than that, I say you should consider other options as well, including its sibling vehicle – the Genesis G70.

Pros: Eye-catching styling (but looks are subjective…), available AWD, price undercuts some competition, 10-year/100,000 mile Kia warranty, powerful twin-turbo V6 engine and Brembo brakes, hatchback and SUV versatility in a sedan bodystyle, you bought the “coolest and fastest Kia”

Cons: Cramped feeling interior, gets expensive, lack of color/feature customization options, competes with other luxury and sports cars with more “badge credibility” than Kia has, doesn’t drive quite as sporty as its been hyped up to be (in my humble opinion), declining sales means this car may not survive much longer… get one while you can!

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