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!

Tuesday, July 4, 2017

Have a Happy 4th of July!

To all of my Adam's Autos readers and YouTube viewers out there, I hope you enjoy your 4th of July cookouts and fireworks with everyone around you!

Heading South - How Mexico Makes Sense

Auto industry production is revving up in Mexico, but there may be more than meets the eye as to why that is. We'll take a look at some of those reasons in this article.

WOW! MY 100^th POST! Hard to believe it’s been almost two years since I started Adam’s Autos. I always strive to cover a variety of topics and vehicles. Thanks for reading, as always, and here’s to everything that’s to come!

Across Borders

With the passing of the recent United States presidential election, one country that has been in the media consistently is… No, not China, but Mexico. Now much of what we’ve been hearing hasn’t always been positive unfortunately, but what if I told you that you may not want to disregard Mexico so quickly? There’s a good chance that your favorite car may come from there. Or there’s a good chance it may in the future. Why is that you ask? Let’s explore!

For The Culture

Info Source: Mexico Now Magazine

So exactly why are manufacturers flocking to Mexico to produce new cars? Perhaps one of the most common and widely known reasons is because of cost. Yes, there are lower wages to pay, but beyond that, Mexico offers an attractive business climate and interesting cultural practices that create a dynamic work environment. Honda began to produce its Fit subcompact to in their Celaya, Guanajuato plant in 2014. A new transmission plant is also supposed to be located near the Fit’s plant in Celaya, and will be charged with pumping out continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) for Honda products. Nissan is also another automaker that was attracted to the market conditions of Mexico and that expects to see a 25% increase in Mexico plant production by investing in their Auascalientes facility. In 1966, Mexico became the first country to manufacture Nissan vehicles outside of Japan. One out of every four cars made in Mexico now is a Nissan.

Source:
http://mexico.automotivemeetings.com/index.php/en/automotive-industry-in-mexico

Another market factor of Mexico is the fact that it has one of the largest free trade agreement networks in the world. In other words, restrictions are lower, meaning that it’s easier to manufacture and get final products moved around the world. Factor in the legal certainty that comes with this, and its no wonder why so many companies, domestic and foreign, are attracted to the Mexican market. For greater perspective, Toyota announced that the next-generation Corolla will be built in a new plant in Guanajuato central Mexico. Since the Corolla has a long-term reputation for being not only reliable, but a consistent best-seller for the brand, it’ll be interesting to see if where its produced makes any difference on its mass appeal or if it remains a compact segment leader. Ford was set to produce the next generation Ford Focus in Mexico, but recently announced that it will now be produced in China and imported instead.

Moving On Up… Mostly.

Source: IHS, Mexico Now Magazine; The U.S. remains a
powerhouse throughout the decade. However, Mexico is
gaining ground fast, even on Germany and Japan.

Based on info I've learned from interning, Mexico’s production is growing so steadily until the country is expected to be near the top five in production come 2020. Light vehicle production will be responsible for much of this sustained growth, as Mexico is the fourth largest exporter of light vehicles in the world. Technology companies, such as Google, are also eyeing the country as a future investment area. However, there are some drawbacks to Mexico’s manufacturing location. One such is figuring out infrastructure logistics, as resources are pretty stretched. Also, figuring out the aftermarket could prove to be an issue, since many sub par parts linger around. Mexican market production often has a direct correlation with U.S. production, so a change here could cause a major change there. Hence, why the President’s proposed 35% import tariff on all Mexican-made goods is so… Interesting to many. Given that two highly popular cars, the Ford Fusion and Chevrolet Silverado, have some roots in Mexico, a stiff tax on them would not only hurt consumers, but the companies that build them as well. Thus, while producing vehicles domestically is always good for local economies and job creation, for maximum revenue generation and production capabilities, utilizing resources abroad is becoming more of a must for every company since both talent and resources are spread more widely in our global economy.

Conclusion: A Global Initiative

Do you feel that Mexico will continue to become a production powerhouse? Is it possible that the country could become a hub for autonomous driving technology testing and production given its rapid growth so far? One thing is for sure: Globalization is most likely here to stay, and the companies and countries that are readily embracing it are preparing themselves for a more financially stable, diverse, and competitive position in the business world. United States workers will do best to prepare themselves for this shift by becoming more technically inclined in the 21^st century.

Here's to another 100 posts to come! I'll always
keep it 100 when it comes to cars. Thanks again!

That wraps up things for now! Thanks for reading and supporting Adam’s Autos through the first 100 posts! More will come soon! Until then: ROLL ON!

“BOOK” By Cadillac

Think of BOOK as a "subscription service" for cars.

Like luxury cars? Well General Motor’s luxury division believes they have an answer for your desires. No it’s not an actual “book”, but rather a service you pay for monthly that gives you access to swap out select Cadillac vehicles whenever you choose. Sounds like a neat concept, right?

Book It

2017 Cadillac CT6

Here’s what you need to know. This service is a first of its kind for luxury cars and is meant to attract luxury car buyers who may be eager to try out a variety of recently released models, such as the CT6 3.0TT. From that standpoint, this is not only a major plus for consumers eager to get their hands on the latest luxury cars to hit the road, but it also could give a potential boost to Cadillac’s brand awareness among other buyers in the market. While there’s no mileage limit under the service, there is definitely a fee you pay for this convenience.

Pay the Cost to be the Boss

Cadillac's CTS-V, XT5, and Escalade will all be available for use under the BOOK program. Only Platnium and V-Series models can be requested.

As eluded to previously, Cadillac’s BOOK works a little something like a “subscription” service. An app is used to reserve one of the available models on the program (XT5, CT6, Escalade, V-Series models), and then the model is delivered to the consumer via a “white-glove concierge service.” However, unlike your average subscription to a service, an individual will pay $1,500 a month to use Cadillac’s BOOK! Suddenly, this service got A LOT more exclusive than you probably ever expected! Fortunately, this fee includes taxes and maintenance costs.

If a driver decides they no longer want to use the service, a 30-day cancellation notice is required. Cadillac hopes that drivers decide to swap out vehicles for a variety of reasons, such as they’re on a business trip one week and then on a road trip the next. I can see individuals owning two cars for that reason in some instances, but I see holes in this argument.

Program Strengths and Weaknesses

One advantage of such a program is that it gives Cadillac drivers the chance to try something new and be novel. Essentially, those who like to experiment are rewarded. Additionally, no long-term buying commitment is required and the program allows for increased flexibility; meaning vehicles can be swapped out seasonally or to make special trips. Very cool, however, it’s in this last point where I feel a key issue lies…

Curiously, the XTS is getting a refresh for 2018, but isn't included in the
BOOK program. Yet, it has a Platinum trim available...

Who’s going to want to do this? Especially at this price? $1,500 month-to-month ON TOP OF (or even IN PLACE OF…) what could already be a $500, $600+ monthly car note for Cadillac owners just seems… Absurd! Plus, there isn’t a ton of variety in the cars from which you can pick. While the XT5 makes sense to include in the program, since it’s one of Cadillac’s best sellers, it’s a shame that the XTS (despite how long in the tooth it is) isn’t included. You can only rent “Platinum” and “V-Series” models through BOOK, but the XTS also has a Platinum trim, is also plenty large enough, AND is due for a refresh in 2018... Perhaps at a later date it’ll be included. Other minor drawbacks of the program are that you can’t just cancel “whenever”, like you would with Netflix for example (you MUST give a 30 day warning), and BOOK will only be available in certain places starting out (New York, and a few other metropolitan cities).

Appeal Strategy

Who doesn't love free Wi-Fi as a perk?

In order to attract the luxury buyers they crave, Cadillac I feel should market this new service aggressively on social media. There’s a younger generation that’s interested in luxury cars, too, so it’s worth some time investment. Also, Cadillac could partner with ride hailing companies such as Uber or Lyft and loan them BOOK models for customers to be picked up in. This would potentially create buzz about the service and Cadillac as well, leaving riders with a lasting impression of “luxury.” Additionally, perhaps offering perks to owners who subscribe to Cadillac’s BOOK will drive demand and justify the cost more. One such perk could stem from an agreement with Netflix to allow BOOK subscribers a free one year streaming to their car equipped with a factory DVD and/or GM’s 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection. Since the 4G connection generally requires another fee, it could be waived as well for Cadillac’s BOOK subscribers. These program additions and perks may help generate more consumer interest.

Final Thoughts

Would you enroll in Cadillac’s BOOK service? Why or why not, and what’s your favorite model? Personally, I think the idea is decent enough, but I can see where it’s probably going to need some tweaking to catch on fully. But since it’s a one-of-a-kind program, perhaps that’ll be enough for high-end buyers who want a tailored service like BOOK.

There’s more content coming up, stay tuned!

Monday, July 3, 2017

2017/2018 Hyundai Elantra SE Review

Redesigned for 2017, the Elantra boasts a more wide and expressive stance sure to catch an eye or two. Look closely, and you'll see quite a bit of "Genesis" styling influence, as well.

One of the most competitive segments out there is the compact car segment. Traditionally, sales have been dominated by the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. However, with fresh contenders such as the 2017 Hyundai Elantra now on the road, the Corolla and Civic’s paths to tops in the segment may have just become more challenging. What’s new in the 2017 Elantra? Let’s find out this week on Adam’s Autos!

Enlightened Elantra

The 1990-1995 Elantra vs. the 2006-2010 Elantra

Originally introduced in 1990, the Elantra has outlived many of the cars it was initially benchmarked to compete against, such as the Chevrolet Cavalier and Dodge Neon. In its present-day form, Hyundai’s compact offering is now larger than previous offerings and also more comfort, sport, and luxury oriented than previous iterations as well. I recall sitting in a 2007-2010 body style Elantra at the North American International Auto show one year, and I was impressed with its solid feeling. Sitting in the 2017 model more or less left me with the same positive impression, although everyone’s experience will of course vary based on tastes. Luckily, there’s an Elantra for almost every buyer this time around.

The Value Equation

An improvement over the outgoing model in both interior and exterior styling, I had a chance to test drive a black 2017 Elantra SE a few months back. My drive took place at Garber Nissan Hyundai in Saginaw, Michigan and I was assisted by one of my former youth group colleagues. Shout out to everyone at the dealer who helped out! Be sure to visit www.garbernissanhyundai.com to view their latest inventory.

Hyundai’s Elantra SE is equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, which makes 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque paired to an optional six-speed automatic transmission (standard on most other trim levels). A six-speed manual is standard on the SE and Elantra Sport (that’s another topic all together). Regardless of trim, value is always a major selling of the Elantra, and that’s where it’s always had a “one-up” on its competition. Heck, there’s even a “Value Edition” trim of the 2017 Elantra that rolls in options like a power sunroof, power driver’s seat, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic alert, seven-inch touch screen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and much more. All for $20,250 - not bad!!! Base SE trim models start at just under $18,000, and adding the automatic transmission adds $1,000 to that price.

Hit the Road

I was very impressed with the ease of use of the entire dashboard in the Elantra! All of the gauges and major controls were simple to use and understand.

Once inside the 2017 Elantra, you’ll notice that the interior is less "dramatic" than that of the outgoing generation model, but more functional. Buttons on the dash are laid out in a logical manner and easy to reach, stock speakers are loud enough, the gauges are illuminated clearly, I had no issues adjusting my seat to get comfortable, the standard 7-inch touch screen works well, and seat comfort was above average up front. I especially liked having the heated seats option. I’ve personally wanted a car with that feature for some time now (especially for those Michigan winters). Rear seat room and comfort was good too, although as with any smaller car, if the front seats are pushed extremely far back, the tallest of passengers may feel a little squished. Heated rear seats are available on the Limited trim via adding a Tech Package for $2,500, quite a unique luxury feature in this class. Alright, I see you Elantra.

As with any car, there may be a few minor things that could deter some buyers. One such thing is interior ambience. While I mentioned that the Elantra’s interior is certainly more functional than in prior models, I noticed that there’s quite a bit of hard touch material throughout the cabin. Granted, this isn’t particularly out of the ordinary for small, moderately priced cars (*cough* CHEVY CRUZE *cough*), so no major surprise. Once in motion, driving dynamics were generally swell, I thought that ride quality was commendably smooth (except when driving over the most massive bumps) and wind noise well controlled. Although at high RPMs, the 2.0-liter engine intrudes slightly and handling was average, though totally stable enough for the everyday driver. 0-60 was in the 9-second range, on par with most of the Elantra’s main competition.

Drive modes can alter the way a vehicle consumes fuel and performs.

Another important factor of any drive is always what’s under the hood. Elantra’s engine power was also fine for everyday driving, although some sportier cars (including Elantra’s own Sport model) may offer more “punch” for enthusiasts. Adjustable drive modes were available (Sport, Eco, and Normal), however, I wasn’t able to discern any major difference between the modes. For most of my drive, I left the car in “Sport Mode.” For comparison sake, my mother’s 2013 Buick Regal has a similar adjustable drive mode system (Tour, Sport, and Normal), and I can’t tell any perceivable difference in that system’s settings either… Traditionally, drive mode systems will alter transmission shift points, throttle response, and some even suspension tuning in an effort to liven up (or dial back) the drive experience to balance fuel consumption or increase ride comfort.

More Beneath the Surface

Interior storage was good in the Elantra as well. I had no problem finding different nooks for my various electronics and small items I had with me. Trunk space was road trip friendly, too.

In terms of other features and accommodations, the Elantra continues to hit above its class. Trunk space is ample given the car’s size, and my tester had the new “smart trunk” access feature, where if you stand behind the car for three seconds with the smart-key in your possession, the trunk will open. Interior storage was decent as well. I found both the glove box and center console to be sized sufficiently enough for small and medium item storage. Door cubbies and a passenger seat back map pocket further help with interior storage space. Additional creature comforts and safety features such as push-button start, smart-key access, and blind-spot monitoring on my tester added to the feeling that you’re driving a fully loaded vehicle for a far more logical price. Really, all that was missing was a sunroof (it’s reserved for higher trims)! When all of this is coupled with Hyundai’s 10-year/100-000 mile warranty, the Elantra becomes a strong compact segment contender.

In Summary

Overall, the 2017 Hyundai Elantra represents a strong value within its segment, across all of its trims. While most versions lean more towards the comfort and efficient end of the driving spectrum, Elantra’s Sport model adds some spice that is largely missing from most other compact cars. Couple the Sport’s 1.6-liter 201 horsepower turbocharged engine, 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions, and multi-link sport-tuned independent rear suspension with the strengths already held by lower-level Elantras, and you have a pretty nice ride for under $30,000.

An abundance of tech features, such as blind-spot monitoring
and LED running lights, really
allow even the Elantra SE to stand out in a crowded lot.

Of course, the model that I drove was the base SE, but it still was no slouch in almost any regard. The inclusion of high-end features such as blind-spot monitoring, power driver’s seat, and push-button start make the car feel more expensive than it actually is. Ride quality and styling also both aid in this feeling, although it’ll be interesting to see if interior materials receive an upgrade when it comes time for the Elantra to receive a mid-life refresh. Especially seeing the attention to detail given to Hyundai’s new Genesis cars. Elantra already has a decent advantage over its competition in other arenas, and it’s essentially on par with interior quality, too.

Like I mentioned, SE models are priced reasonably and start at $17,150 (manual), add $1,000 for a 6-speed automatic transmission. Elantra Value Editions add a slew of equipment and start at $20,250; Eco models start at $20,650. BUT NOTE: Eco models add a 1.4-liter turbo 4-cylinder that’s down on horsepower from the 2.0, but up on torque. You also get the 7-speed dual clutch standard, but lose some equipment on the Elantra Eco vs. the Value Elantra, such as the power driver’s seat. The Elantra Sport starts at $21,650 (manual), add $1,100 for the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission version. The Limited model starts at $22,350 and reverts back to using the standard 2.0-liter engine coupled with the 6-speed automatic. For 2018, expect Hyundai to add a sporty Elantra GT model to the mix for the hatchback model, using elements from the sedan’s Sport model. I get the feeling that these two models are the start of a great performance line for Hyundai.

Do you like the value that’s found in the Elantra line up? What’s important to you in this class of car? Hyundai’s modern compact offering could honestly classify as an older midsize entry in some instances, but the advantage the Elantra has over some larger cars lies in the diversity of its lineup. I’m positive we’ll see the Elantra evolve even further as time continues to pass.

That wraps it up for this review! And in case I didn’t say the word “Elantra” enough for you in this review, here’s one more for the road: Elantra. Until next review, ROLL ON!

Grading (SE 2.0 Automatic Only)

Engine Power/Economy: B- (6.5 points)
Quietness: B (7.5 points)
Interior Quality/Comfort: B (7.5 points)
Driving Dynamics: B (7.5 points)
Cargo Capacity: A- (9.5 points)
Overall: 38.5/50

Other Specs:

Engines Available: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (147 HP), 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (128 HP), 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (201 HP)
Transmissions: 6-speed manual (standard on SE & Sport trims only), 6-speed automatic (optional on SE, standard on Value & Limited trims), 7-speed Dual Clutch (standard on Eco, optional on Sport)
Fuel Economy Ratings: 26 city/36 highway/29 combined (SE 2.0 manual), 28 city/37 highway/32 combined (SE 2.0 automatic w/optional packages; Value Edition; Limited), 32 city/40 highway/35 combined (Eco 1.4 turbo), 22 city/30 highway/25 combined (Sport 6-speed manual), 26 city/33 highway/29 combined (Sport 7-speed Dual Clutch); Fuel Tank Size – 14 Gallons
Trim Levels: SE, Value Edition, Eco, Sport, Limited
Model Pricing: $17,150 (SE manual) - $22,350 (Limited)
*Price as Tested*: $21,360
Available/Standard Safety Features: Anti-Lock Brakes, Brake Assist, Stability Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Forward-Collision Warning, Rear-View Camera, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Various Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain, Driver’s Knees), High Beam Assist, Child Locks, 911 Connect (Blue Link)

Crash Test Results: 2017 Top Safety Pick +

IIHS Offset: Good
IIHS Small Overlap: Good
IIHS Side: Good
IIHS Roof Strength: Good
Head Restraints & Seats: Good
Headlights: Good

Star Ratings: Frontal Driver- 4 Stars Frontal Passenger- 4 Stars Front Side- 5 Stars Rear Side Crash- 4 Stars (Injury Concern!) Rollover- 4 Stars; Overall Safety Rating- 4 Stars

Key Competitors: All vehicles in the compact car segment; Includes the Chevrolet Cruze & Cruze Hatchback, Dodge Dart, Ford Focus & Focus Hatchback, Honda Civic & Civic Hatchback, KIA Forte & Forte5, Mazda 3 & Mazda 3 Hatchback, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Corolla iM, & Volkswagen Jetta

On the Adam’s Autos “Should You Buy It?” scale of “Drool, Cool, Meh, or BLEH”: The Elantra is “Cool”, so consider leasing or buying it.

Thursday, June 8, 2017

Well, This Is Odd...

Saw this invention the other day at Walmart: An old-school Honda Odyssey minivan, fresh off the chopping block.

"When you want a Honda Ridgeline, but your artistic and financial sides are at war with one another." #Improvisation #FakeItTilYouMakeIt

Thursday, June 1, 2017

3-in-1 = Automotive Fun: Ford’s Under New Management, Darn Dirty Diesels (Part 2), & NY Auto Show Upcoming Models

Hey there, and welcome back to Adam’s Autos! Where I rate autos to help YOU find an A-Rate ride!

It’s been a good minute since we last talked cars, but now, (following college graduation and some other business) there’s new site revisions (a search bar, language translator bar, more article reactions, upgraded website visuals, new mobile phone experience, and expanded auto news live feed) AND new forthcoming content!

Let’s take a look at some recent industry management shifts, emissions issues, and upcoming models in a special 3-in-1 article. Time to get rolling!

________________________________________________________________________

1. Under New Management: Fields Out, Hackett In at Ford

A change in leadership happens from time to time at nearly every major company, and is necessary for business to move forward. Just recently, Ford decided that a change up in management was needed and replaced CEO Mark Fields, who had been with the company nearly 30 years, with Jim Hackett, CEO of Steelcase. Hackett has also been a Ford board member since 2013 and has headed the Ford Smart Mobility branch for some time. Overall, he’s a much fresher face to the management team at the company, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

My campus encounter with Alan Mulally, Ford's CEO from
2006-2014, was eye opening.

Ford’s stock has supposedly fallen 40% since Mark Fields took over for Alan Mulally in 2014, however, the company stated that declining stock was not the reason for the management change. Mulally was an outsider just like Hackett, being brought in from Boeing in 2006, and was key in the implementation of the company’s “One Ford” strategy back in 2007 when the United States’ economic recession was taking shape. No doubt, his outside knowledge helped Ford in the development of some of their now most-profitable product lines, such as the Fusion and the Edge. I had a chance to meet him in person at Michigan State University during his tenure, and I got a really positive, inclusive vibe from Mulally. Thus, the bar has been set high for Jim Hackett, who has been hailed by executives as a “transformational leader.”

Jim Hackett takes command of Ford at a critical time: During the
rise of autonomous driving.

Ford’s mission moving forward is to become a more mobile automotive company. Ford’s Smart Mobility branch is rapidly expanding, nearing 600 employees, and we all know that technology in general is not regressing. With the race towards developing an autonomous driving vehicle heating up more with each passing month, Ford’s best bet is to unite the company behind a leader who has a clear vision of the future and passion of their own that can be instilled in employees. Jim Hackett seems to have this and be the man for the job, saying himself that he wants people to have fun and work and feel as though they can come to Ford and have a “great day here.” In addition to Hackett being appointed to CEO, corporate operations within Ford have been restructured, and product development boss Raj Nair has been picked to help lead Ford North America and Steven Armstrong to lead Ford Europe by Hackett himself.

Are you a Ford fan? Do you think that these administration shifts will have any major impact? Personally, I feel as though this can’t hurt, as new minds can potentially breed new innovation. And some of Ford’s products are due for redesigns soon, making things even more interesting. Time will tell us what this new shakeup will bring from the blue oval!

__________________________________________________

2. MORE Darn Dirty Diesels: GM & Chrysler Too?

Another day, another lawsuit… About diesels? For two automakers? Yep.

Both General Motors and Chrysler are facing lawsuits claiming that they used emissions defeat devices on their trucks. Sound familiar? Volkswagen went through a similar, much more massive lawsuit (and subsequent recall) recently if you need a refresher. For GM, the affected models are the 2011-2016 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD pickups with the 6.6-liter V8 diesel engine. However, the bigger issue with these engines is that they may emit two to five times the legal limit of nitrogen oxide when driving. This dwarfs VW’s emission scandal by comparison and affects 705,000 trucks. It’s believed that three different types of cheat devices were used in the GM trucks, but GM denies these claims.

Across Town…

Over at FCA, a lawsuit has been filed regarding diesel models of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ram 1500 built from the 2014 to 2016 model years. Like GM’s trucks, it’s believed that a possible defeat device was used to fabricate emission output levels. The affected engine is the 3.0-liter diesel; It may contain equipment that violates the Clean Air Act. Chrysler has already asked the EPA and CARB for permission to install modified emissions software on these same cars and for diesel emissions certifications for the 2017 model year versions. It’s believed that the software update to older models will address concerns about emissions while simultaneously not affecting overall engine performance or fuel efficiency. This is somewhat different from what I’ve personally heard about some of the fixes applied to Volkswagen’s diesel vehicles, which has caused a noticeable change in performance in some models. Chrysler’s diesel cheat software is believed to circumvent emissions controls when being driven at high speeds, where VW’s cheat device reduced emissions when the car was hooked up to a dynamometer (dyno).

If these lawsuits are carried out, both automakers could face billions upon billions of dollars in fines. FCA alone could face up to $4.6 billion in fines. The Department of Justice will levy FCA’s fine if an agreement on diesel emissions is not reached soon.

Can diesel survive yet ANOTHER blow?

What’s your opinion on these various diesel emission controversies? Will diesels be around in the future, or is the death nail being put in its coffin with each scandal? Time will tell, but one thing is for sure: The reputation of these powertrains (in passenger cars) for now is somewhat cloudy.

__________________________________________________

3. Upcoming Models: New York Auto Show Fresh-Takes

The New York Auto Show passed not long ago, and we got to see some new models that’ll be on our roadways soon. From performance entries such as the 2018 Dodge Challenger Demon and Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, to more every day entries such as a much-needed 2018 redesign for the Kia Rio, the New York Auto Show showed us some diverse rides. Additionally, I made a few predictions prior to the show. Was I right about them? Let’s explore a few of these interesting upcoming models!

1. 2019 Subaru Ascent

Subaru will soon throw their hat back into the 7-passenger crossover arena, albeit a little late, like VW.

Subaru has shown that they are fully committed to pumping out the best products they possibly can these days, and part of their revised lineup includes jumping into the ever-popular 7-passenger crossover SUV segment. The Ascent will essentially serve as Subaru’s follow-up to the rather awkward B9 Tribeca/Tribeca crossover from several years ago, and at first glance, it appears to be more well-developed overall. Subaru’s modern corporate design language is strong here, and works well with the SUV’s lines to enhance its overall presence. The Ascent will be powered by a new turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine with direct injection. Given Subaru’s legacy for offering boxer engines paired to a CVT and standard all-wheel drive, I’d expect that philosophy to hold constant in this application, too. The Ascent will ride on the same platform as the redesigned 2017 Impreza, and in fact, that platform will underpin many future Subaru products, giving us a better idea of what to possibly expect from other forthcoming Subarus.

Expect the Ascent to release sometime in 2018 as a 2019 model year vehicle.

2. 2018 Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo

Station wagons aren’t as popular as they used to be, but that doesn’t seem to have discouraged some automakers from attempting to sell them in the United States. First at the auto show came Buick, and now Porsche is gearing up to take a stab at the station wagon market. Sharing its name with the concept car, the Panamera Sport Turismo rides on the same wheelbase as the regular Panamera. There won’t be an extended version. Although, headroom is improved over the regular model, as is the cargo area. All-wheel drive is standard, and horsepower will range between 330 and 550 depending on the trim level. The rear spoiler on this model adjusts automatically based on your speed to reduce drag, and adjusts even further based on whether or not the panoramic sunroof is open.

The primary reason one would want to opt for this over the regular Panamera or its competitors would probably be because of its exclusivity. There aren’t many vehicles like this on the market, and since station wagons are a rare sight now, you’ll definitely be the talk of the town. Well, at least amongst the people who still like station wagons, love luxury cars, and sports cars. Especially all three rolled into one.

Expect the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo to be priced from $97,250 this fall. The 4S model will start at $110,250, and $155,050 will get you the upmarket Turbo.

3. 2018 Lincoln Navigator & Ford Expedition

2018 Lincoln Navigator

In an earlier article, I discussed my impressions about the Lincoln Navigator concept. I was really impressed with its styling direction, especially since the vehicle was last FULLY redesigned for the 2003 model year – back when I was in ELEMENTARY SCHOOL. Similarly, the Navigator’s platform mate, the Expedition, is being redesigned, and takes styling elements from Ford’s F-150 line. One major takeaway from the F-150 lineup that’s been incorporated into these new twins is an aluminum body architecture, allowing for a major weight reduction of roughly 300 pounds (200 pounds – Navigator) compared to the outgoing models. Yet, the short wheelbase models are a few inches longer than the older models, and the extended models have grown by one inch. This allows for more efficient use of the cabin’s interior space, and the Navigator and Expedition have already long had one of the more comfortable second and third rows in their class.

2018 Ford Expedition; 450 horsepower is expected from the updated EcoBoost
3.5-liter V6, although this is when running on
premium fuel. The Expedition "EL" (extended length)
has been renamed "Max" for 2018, as well.

I had a chance to chat with some Ford representatives at an event, and outside of modernizing the vehicle’s architecture, special attention was paid to interior quality, convenience, and vehicle technology as well. I was told that a special storage system – the only in its segment – is now available in the rear of the Expedition (no word about the Navigator) and allows consumers to stack and organize goods, like a pantry in their home.

Overall, around 40 new features have been introduced to this duo, such as various driver-assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning with automatic braking, and lo and behold – an updated version of the twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine used in the F-150 will be used and paired to Ford’s new co-developed 10-speed automatic transmission. Just going to say this now about the transmission: CALLED IT! The 'old' revised 3.5-liter EcoBoost is good for 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque in the F-150. However, Lincoln says that they expect the Navigator’s new V6 to make 450 HP (WOAH!) and 500 pound-feet of torque (WOW!), up from 380 HP and 460 pound-feet of torque last generation. Big moves! Rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive are both available, as is an adjustable suspension system.

The new Navigator's interior is fancy alright, however, it seems almost
"overdone" at times. For example, I'm no fan of "floating touchscreens",
like you see in this shot. It looks a little aftermarket to me, where other
rival SUVs have a screen that's flush with the dash or that pops up.
Additionally, I'm not too crazy about the "ribbed pattern" on the seats...

The Navigator perhaps shows off the most potential of this new platform, having the most presence, the most features such as 30-way power seats, Lincoln’s new Revel sound system, and so on. But I wonder if its perhaps… Too much? While I’m impressed with the Navigator's design, the Expedition seems to strike the happy medium. I imagine that outside of exclusive features such as the Revel audio system and 30-way power seats, a fully loaded Expedition will satisfy most consumers in this market, unless they’re looking for a more “exclusive” experience and demanding presence driving down the road. The Expedition will start at around $48,000, the Navigator $64,000. Black Label Navigators will have their own themed design treatments and pricing, too.