Valerie Menard

Valerie Menard is a freelance writer and published author with 16 years of reporting about the auto industry for Latino publications.

Toyota Sponsors Second Edition of the Los Dells Festival

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Sep 062018

Latino Traffic Report has learned that this year, Toyota—in collaboration with Sony Music—partnered with headlining Latin singer, songwriter, and producer Wisin as the curator of the Toyota Music Den stage. The lineup featured the hottest Latin talent—in support of music discovery and Toyota’s commitment to supporting artists on their road to success.

Coined as the largest Latin music festival in the Midwest featuring a lineup of multi-genre artists, Los Dells Festival returned to the Wisconsin Dells on September 1st and 2nd. Joining the music-filled weekend, Toyota presented the Toyota Music Den stage with a variety of Latin acts that delighted music enthusiasts.

Latin urban music icon and headliner, Wisin, curated the 2018 Toyota Music Den lineup.

“Toyota is all about creating experiences that engage artists and guests alike in the spirit of music discovery,” said Tyler McBride, Toyota’s engagement marketing manager. “To be able to collaborate with Sony Music and a music icon like Wisin sets up our Toyota Music Den for a spectacular debut at Los Dells.”

The Toyota Música interactive area at Los Dellsfeatured numerous activities, including vehicle activations that bring music to life. Within this setting, the Toyota Music Den presented a variety of musical performances featuring some of today’s most notable Latin artists. The lineup included:

Venezuelan urban singer-songwriter, Oscarcito
Puerto Rican urban singer, Gadiel
Colombian urban singer, Farina
Latin GRAMMY® nominated pop music duo, Periko y Jessi Leon
Dominican & Brazilian artist and performer, Jarina De Marco
Puerto Rican singer-songwriter and Latin GRAMMY® nominee, Raquel Sofía
Cuban Latin GRAMMY® and Latin Billboard award-winning artist, Descemer Bueno

“As a producer and artist, I enjoy working with young talent and helping to pave the way for them. Being the curator of the Toyota Music Den provided me the opportunity to do that,” stated Wisin. “It’s exciting to be at Los Dells as a headliner and to be sharing the weekend with amazing artists. Thanks to Toyota for having the vision to provide a stage for these young artists at important festivals like this one, bringing them that much closer to their fans.”

“What better place to showcase the latest artists, sounds, and trends than through these types of partnerships. Along with Wisin, a music icon who has written and produced countless award-winning records who knows what it takes and has an eye for talent,” said Cebele Marquez, Sony Music US Latin’s senior director of business development.

In addition to continuing its support for music through festival involvement, Toyota announced its fourth-year partnership with the VH1 Save The Music Foundation in support of music education. The interactive campaign encourages musicians and fans to express their support and share what music means to them through social media using #ToyotaGiving.

Toyota and VH1 Save The Music have presented grants to various deserving schools in Chicago, Las Vegas and New Orleans to date. Toyota will make its largest donation yet to VH1 Save The Music this year, $50,000 which will fund a Music Technology grant to support a school in the Philadelphia School District, as well as a $7,500 music grant to the Miami-Dade School District.

SUV Review: 2018 Chevy Traverse

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Aug 272018

They may not be sexy, but safety features matter to consumers. According to a 2017 tech study by Autotrader, technology ranks as the top priority for car buyers, specifically, safety tech.

“Consumers say they are becoming increasingly comfortable with advanced safety technology. Seventy percent of respondents noted they would consider paying more for driver-assist technology, such as blind-spot monitoring or adaptive cruise control, in their next vehicle purchase,” according to autotrader.com.

Latino Traffic Report recently tested the 2018 Chevy Traverse Premier AWD and it came loaded with technology that consumers want, plus unique safety features that they may want to get to know.

Safety First

General Motors collaborated with two electronics companies in 1985 to create OnStar telematics, now available on all GM brands. The latest version of OnStar now includes a 4G LTE and available WiFi hotspot.

Every Traverse also comes equipped with new safety technology like Teen Driver, introduced on the Malibu in 2016, and the Rear Seat Reminder that pings after the vehicle is turned off to remind the driver to check the back seat for children or other precious cargo. Teen Driver allows parents to program a vehicle to monitor their teen’s driving habits.

As a Premier trim level equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD), standard safety features on the test model included Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert (left), a rear view camera with Surround Vision bird’s-eye view, rear park assist, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, and front pedestrian braking.

Chevrolet also partnered with the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety to warn parents about the 100 deadliest days of summer, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and to showcase technology like Teen Driver and the Rear Seat Reminder. According to AAA, during this time, the average number of deadly teen driver crashes climbs by 15 percent compared to the rest of the year. NoHeatStroke.org also notes that for the past 20 years, Texas has led the country in child deaths from being left in a vehicle.

Driving Impressions

On the test drive, the Traverse produced impressive power from the 3.6-liter V6 engine with 310 horses and 266 lb.-ft. of torque and a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. With AWD and matched to the nine-speed automatic transmission, it had an EPA estimated fuel economy of 17 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. It averaged 18.1 mpg on the test drive.

It had a seating capacity of seven (properly equipped the Traverse can seat up to eight) plus the second- and third-row seats folded to expose 98.2 cubic feet of cargo room. In previous tests, Chevy seats were heavy, spring loaded, and slammed down when deployed, but that has been addressed on the new Traverse.

Creature comforts on the Traverse included the MyLink infotainment system with navigation and an eight-inch touch screen (a seven-inch screen is standard), leather seating, heated second row seats and heated and ventilated front seats, a hands-free power liftgate, Bose stereo with XM satellite radio, and tri-zone air conditioning.

Pricing for the Traverse starts at $30,875. The as-tested price, including the optional dual panoramic sunroof ($1,400), came to $50,065.

Sí: Safety innovations like Teen Safety and the Rear Seat Reminder set the Traverse apart in a crowded segment.

No: Features like adaptive cruise control and the GM Safety Alert Seat were obvious omissions in the list of available safety features on the Traverse, especially at this trim level.

Super SUVs and CUVs for Summer Travel

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Aug 092018

2018 BMW X3

Summer’s heating up as families hit the road for vacation. There’s no question that sport and crossover utility vehicles (SUVs and CUVs) have claimed the family car market, but happily, the supply and variety from which to choose is incredibly healthy. Here’s an overview of some of the models tested by Latino Traffic Report (LTR).

Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD

Mazda’s best-selling vehicle in the United States, the CX-5, stands out in a crowded segment with its design, including the signature Soul Red Crystal premium exterior paint ($595) on the test model. For 2018, this compact CUV moves ahead of the pack by making the blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert a standard feature on all CX-5s, something even premium compact CUVs and SUVs don’t do. Also added to the standard features list for 2018 are a leather-wrapped steering wheel and new cylinder-deactivation technology; Mazda is the only automaker to offer this technology on a four-cylinder engine in North America.
The test model, CX-5 Grand Touring AWD, also included the i-ACTIVSENSE suite with High Beam Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane-Keep Assist, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go function.
Powered by a 2.5-liter engine that delivers 187 horsepower and 186 lb.–ft. of torque with cylinder deactivation for better fuel economy and matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, the CX-5 should achieve an EPA estimated fuel economy of 24 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. It averaged 28.5 mpg on the test drive.
On road trips, entertainment features come in handy and Mazda’s infotainment system centers around Mazda CONNECT with a seven-inch touch screen, Bluetooth audio streaming, and phone pairing. While it took four steps to set presets, there appeared to be no limit to the number allowed, from AM to SiriusXM Satellite radio.
With seating for five and 59.6 cubic feet (cu. ft.) of cargo room with the second-row seats folded, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 has a starting price of $25,125. The as-tested price came to $34,685.

Chevy Equinox

Chevy MyLink

Since its launch in 2005, the Equinox has been Chevrolet’s second-best selling vehicle overall, after the Silverado. It includes what families want, convenience and versatility, plus a few other features that other small SUVs don’t.
Under the hood, the Equinox offers three engine choices, all turbos—a 1.5-liter, 2.0-liter, and a 1.6-liter turbo diesel (a segment exclusive). LTR drove the 2.0-liter with 252 horsepower and 260 lb.–ft. of torque. The Equinox test model had an EPA city/highway estimated fuel rating of 22/28 mpg. It averaged 26.7 mpg on the test drive.
Inside, the Equinox there’s up to 63.5 cu. ft. of maximum cargo space with the second row folded flat. During the test, the seats were heavy and slammed down when deployed.
Certain brands may have created a reputation for safety but Chevy offers its own signature safety technology, starting with Teen Driver (standard) that allows parents to set controls and review driving history in order to encourage safe driving habits, even when they are not in the vehicle. The available Rear Seat Reminder, also on the test model, pings when the ignition is turned off to remind the driver to check the back seat before locking the SUV.
The standard MyLink infotainment system on the Equinox that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as the OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, can be matched to a standard seven- or an available eight-inch-diagonal color touch screen.
Available in four trim levels, and front wheel or all wheel drive (FWD or AWD) combinations, pricing for the next-generation 2018 Equinox starts at $24,525. The as-tested price came to $43,050.

Lexus NX 300h

For road trips, fuel economy, comfort, and cargo carrying matter. The Lexus NX 300h hybrid competes handily in these areas. The test model also included the Lexus navigation package ($1,815), another road trip essential.
Lexus excels at comfort and luxury and the NX 300h test model was no exception. Enhanced by the Luxury Package ($4,545), it included buttery beige leather seating with heated and ventilated seats in the front. The second row also included a power button ($400) for folding the seats flat and exposing 53.7 cu. ft. of cargo room.
Powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a small high-torque electric motor through its electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, it has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 33 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. It averaged 28.4 mpg on the test drive. The engine lacked a little power but the Sport mode, part of the standard Drive Mode Select system, gave it some oomph. Normal and Eco modes are also available as well as an EV mode for full electric power at speeds below 25 miles per hour (mph). Regenerative braking charges the electric motor to a generator that captures the kinetic energy of the wheels when the brake is applied, storing it in the nickel-metal hydride hybrid battery pack.
Semi-autonomous features like adaptive cruise control are standard but the blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert was added to the test model ($660).
Other standard features included a backup camera, dual-zone climate control, Lexus Enform safety connect, and a power tilt and telescopic steering column.
For 2018 it gets a refreshed exterior and improved handling.
Pricing for the 2018 NX 300h starts at $39,330. The as-tested pricing came to $51,683.*

BMW X3 xDrive30i

All new for 2018, the BMW X3 brings a sporty element to the premium compact SUV segment (or Sports Activity Vehicle according to BMW), making it a bit more fun to drive than its competitors. Like its siblings, the X4, X5, and X6, the X3 is built at BMW’s plant in Spartanburg, SC where 70 percent of BMW vehicles exported to 140 markets worldwide are produced.
The third-generation sports new fascia features including a three-dimensional kidney grille and fog lights featuring a hexagonal design. It’s also the first X3 to offer a factory installed trailer hitch.
A twin-power turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder inline gasoline engine that produces 248 horses and 258 lb.–ft. of torque powered the X3 xDrive30i test model, matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles and xDrive all-wheel drive (AWD). It had an EPA estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. It earned 24.1 mpg on the test drive.
Four drive modes, Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, helped customize the ride and handling and overcome a slight turbo lag.

orange ambient lighting

Adding to that was the new 50:50 weight distribution between the front and rear axle.
Standard features on the test model included tri-zone climate control, a 40/20/40 split folding rear seat that can be released from the rear to expose 62.7 cu. ft. of cargo room, WiFi hotspot, and power tailgate. The test model, X3 also included multiple packages—Convenience ($2,850), Driving Assistance ($900), Dynamic Handling ($1,400), Parking Assistance ($1,300), and Premium ($3,300)—that added features like a panoramic sunroof, variable sport steering, and oddly, a rearview camera—it’s standard on most vehicles these days.
Pricing for the 2018 BMW X3 starts at $42,450. The as-tested pricing came to $57,470.

Volvo XC60 T6 Inscription

Safety is paramount to Volvo so it’s no wonder that the redesigned 2018 version of the XC60 adds Oncoming Lane Mitigation to its list of standard collision avoidance safety features, plus advancements to two available features—the Blind Spot Information System with steering assistance, part of the Vision Package ($1,100), and Pilot Assist, a semi-autonomous feature from Volvo, included on the test model with the Convenience Package ($2,000). It helped with steering, braking, and acceleration on roads at speeds up to 80 mph, like adaptive cruise control but without needing a car in front of it to follow.
Two remarkable four-cylinder engines power the new XC60, a turbo 2.0-liter with 250 horsepower and 258 ft.–lb. of torque on the T5 base and a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter with 315 horsepower and 295 lb.–ft. of torque on the T6 Inscription test model. It had an EPA estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. It averaged 22.1 mpg during the test drive.
Blessed with Scandinavian design, inside and out, the T6 test model standard creature comforts included leather seats, a beautiful dash intricately trimmed with driftwood-inspired wood accents, a nine-inch Sensus Connect touch screen that provided a clear vantage when utilizing the standard backup camera, a panoramic sunroof, multi-zone climate control, and 4G LTE connectivity with in-car Wi-Fi hotspot. It offered seating for five and 63.3 cu. ft. of cargo with the rear seats folded, a loss of about four inches from the previous XC60.
The Luxury Package ($3,000) added heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats and the Advanced Package ($1,900) added a 360-degree backup camera, among other features.
Representing 30 percent of Volvo’s global sales, the 2018 XC60 has a starting price of $42,495. The as-tested pricing was $63,290.

Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium

Built in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the seven-passenger Atlas is a new entry into the midsize SUV market for Volkswagen. It offers utility with three rows of seats, including second and third rows that can fold flat to provide a maximum cargo volume of 96.8 cu. ft. behind the front-row seats. The seats on the test model, however, were heavy and slammed down when deployed.
The digital 12.3-inch TFT display in the instrument panel can also be customized, a feature usually reserved for premium vehicles.
While a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb.–ft. of torque is available, the test model, Atlas SEL Premium, is only powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 276 horses and 266 lb.–ft. of torque and is matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The maximum towing for the V6 is 5,000 lbs. with a factory-installed hitch.
The standard Start/Stop technology that cuts the engine off at a stop also helps conserve gas and while noticeable, it was less jarring than other systems. That said, the test model had an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy rating of 17/23 mpg. The test model, equipped with 4Motion all-wheel drive, averaged 17.2 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. Four Motion also included Active Control with Eco, Individual, Normal, and Sport driving modes but power was noticeably lost in the Eco mode.
The test model also had three-zone climate control, leather seating with heated and ventilated seats in the front, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, a front and rear parking monitor, blind spot monitor, Fender audio, and eight-inch touch screen with navigation, and a CD player.
Pricing for the 2018 Atlas starts at $31,745. The as-tested pricing came to $49,415.

Ranger Rover Sport HSE

Some SUVs stand out for plushness, others for their off-road capability, and some, like the Ranger Rover Sport, for both. The test model, Range Rover Sport HSE Td6 doubled down on these attributes.
Piling tons of off-road capability onto a fancy SUV may seem at cross-purposes but the Land Rover’s brand legacy demands it. While most owners will keep their nearly six-figure SUV on the road, if they want to climb rocks, they can in the Range Rover Sport. Rather than drive modes, the Sport included off-road modes via the Terrain Response System—General, Snow, Mud and Sand.
The test model, however, stayed on the road, powered by the available 3.0-liter V6 diesel that produced 254 horsepower and 443 lb.–ft. of torque. Matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission, it had an EPA city/highway estimated fuel economy of 22/28 mpg. It surpassed expectations during the test drive, achieving an average of 32.7 mpg.
Additional features affecting performance included Intelligent Stop/Start and full-time four-wheel drive (4WD). While the Sport version is supposed to be the more nimble Range Rover, it still felt heavy and at times, difficult to maneuver.
Of the multiple interior tech features, the stand out was the 10.2-inch InControl Touch Pro infotainment four-panel display for selecting navigation, entertainment, climate control, and Bluetooth functions. Other posh features on the test model included a panoramic sunroof, Oxford perforated leather seats (heated and ventilated in the front), a TFT virtual instrument panel, Head-up Display, and a heated steering wheel. For 2018, the Range Rover Sport gets a refreshed exterior and new version of the InControl Touch Pro.
The test model was also equipped with advanced safety features like a blind spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, and parking assistance. Pricing for the 2018 Range Rover Sport starts at $67,745. The as-tested price came to $73,645.*

Infiniti QX80 4WD

It takes special needs to step up to the big boys in the SUV segment, e.g. lots of capacity and versatility. Luxury and comfort also enhance a vessel like the 2018 Infiniti QX80 full-size premium SUV, or as Infiniti’s press release says: “It will appeal to a buyer that wants for nothing.”
A 5.6-liter V8 engine with 400 horses and 413 lb.–ft. of torque matched to a seven-speed automatic transmission propelled the massive seven-seater (or eight-seater with the second-row bench instead of captain’s chairs) along the highway. The test model, equipped with computer-controlled 4WD and Drive Mode Selector (Snow and Tow), had an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 13/19 mpg and a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 lbs. It averaged 15.3 mpg on the test drive.
Interior features on the test model testified to its unique craftsmanship, like real wood accents, illuminated doorsills, Infiniti’s InTouch eight-inch touch screen, and the Bose premium audio system with SiriusXM Satellite radio and two USB ports. While all QX80s come with leather seating, the test model stepped it up a notch with the semi-aniline leather (made from the most desirable portion of the animal’s hide) with contrasting stitching and piping, part of the Deluxe Technology Package ($5,700).
Additional features on the test model included the Theater Package ($2,450) with eight-inch monitors in the front headrests and heated second-row seats, and the Driver Assistance Package ($2,900) that included advanced safety technology like the blind spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, and back-up collision warning, among other features.
Pricing for the 2018 QX80 starts at $66,045. The as-tested pricing came to $84,660.

Toyota Land Cruiser

In 1957 the Toyota Land Cruiser was among the first Toyota vehicles sold in the U.S. Toyota’s oldest SUV currently on the market has evolved into a premium full-size SUV with refined good looks and advanced off-road capability.
The number eight figures prominently in the 2018 Land Cruiser, with seating for eight and a powertrain that includes a 5.7-liter V8 matched to an eight-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. The V8 produces 381 horsepower and 401 lb.–ft. of torque and has a maximum towing capacity of 8,100 pounds.
It has an EPA city/highway estimated fuel economy of 13/18 mpg. It averaged 15.2 mpg on the test drive.
Safety advancements on this family vehicle include the standard Toyota Safety Sense-P (TSS-P) system, with a pre-collision warning system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams among other features. Stepping up to the 4WD version, like the as-tested model, brought technology like a blind spot monitor, a front and rear parking sensor, and rear cross traffic alert.
While the seats are split 60/40 in the second-row and 50/50 in the third-row, they were heavy and a little awkward to deploy. Once folded flat, however, the cargo room expanded to 81.7 cu. ft.
Entertainment and convenience features on the test model included four-zone climate control, JBL audio with navigation and a CD player, a nine-inch touchscreen, and a cooler box in the center console.
Toyota has reserved its premium products for Lexus, but the Land Cruiser is an exception. Pricing for the 2018 Land Cruiser starts at $84,960. The as-tested price, with the rear entertainment system ($2,220) came to $87,180.

*Driving impressions based on a 2017 model.

Volkswagen Recalls Certain Golf Models

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Jul 302018

2018 VW Golf

Latino Traffic Report has learned that Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Volkswagen Golf and Golf Sportwagen vehicles. The build of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition while the vehicle shift lever is not in “Park.” As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, “Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention.”

Golf Sportwagen

Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than “Park” increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.

Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin September 8, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen’s number for this recall is 37L5.

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Ten Roads, Monuments, and Marvels that Changed America on PBS

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Jul 202018

10-Modern-Marvels-Roebling-Bridge-credit-Justin-Rohn

Latino Traffic Report invites readers to check out 10 THAT CHANGED AMERICA, the popular three-part series that explores the fascinating and often untold stories behind America’s streets, monuments, and modern marvels, beginning with the “10 Streets That Changed America,” which aired July 10 and concluding with “10 Modern Marvels that Changed America,” which airs this Tuesday, July 24, 8:00-9:00 PM ET (check local listings) on PBS, on pbs.org, and wttw.com/10. The 10 THAT CHANGED AMERICA companion website will feature immersive content about the streets, monuments, and modern marvels including original stories, video extras, quizzes, photography, and behind-the-scenes adventures.

Detroit-10-Streets-that-Changed-America_Geoffrey-Baer-travels-in-a-Model-T-on-Detroit_s-Woodward-Avenue-the-first-concrete-paved-highway_Photo-WTTW-and-Justin-Maconochie

“10 that Changed America is a history series, but the subjects we tackled this season couldn’t be more current: the fate of Confederate monuments, infrastructure spending, and battles over public spaces,” said writer and producer, Dan Protess. “Many of these stories could have been ripped from today’s headlines.”

From New York’s Broadway to the Hoover Dam, from Mount Rushmore to the St. Louis Arch, join host Geoffrey Baer on a summer road trip across America as he meets with historians, curators, and guides who share the fascinating backstories behind the iconic streets that connect our nation, the monuments that commemorate our history, and the engineering marvels that transformed our environment and shaped the way we live.

Kicking off the season “10 Streets that Changed America,” revealed how streets and roads have connected the nation, divided communities, and changed the way Americans live, work, and shop. Geoffrey traces the 400-year evolution of New York’s Broadway, from Native American road to Dutch thoroughfare, from theater district to poster child for the “complete streets” movement of the future. Other influential streets include the Boston Post Road, St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans, Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles and more.

Statue of Liberty: 10 Monuments that Changed America

The second episode, “10 Monuments that Changed America” (July 17) explored the stories behind ten wholly-original American monuments and the historical moments that inspired them, from the Statue of Liberty to Mount Rushmore, from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to the AIDS Quilt. The episode presented the often-contentious battles over the design of these monuments and the ongoing controversies over Confederate monuments throughout the South.

To rewatch these episodes, go to https://www.pbs.org/show/10-changed-america/.

Finally, “10 Modern Marvels that Changed America,” airing this Tuesday, (July 24) celebrates the visionary engineers who scoffed at the laws of nature, defied the naysayers—and sometimes even gravity—by undertaking amazing feats of engineering. Each story includes a fun physics lesson and a tale of human folly: from the Erie Canal to the Hoover Dam, from the Transcontinental Railroad to the Interstate Highway System.

10-Modern-Marvels-Hoover-Dam-credit-Eric-Guideng

“Hosting this series was like a roller coaster ride of experience and emotion,” said Baer. “The monuments immersed me in triumphs and tragedies of every scale; the engineering marvels took me from thousands of feet in the air to deep underground, pondering the brilliance and hubris of humankind; and as for the streets, I explored them on foot and horseback, in a covered wagon, and in an array of vintage vehicles. It left me in awe of the power of people to imagine and to create.”

10 THAT CHANGED AMERICA is produced and written by Dan Protess and hosted by Geoffrey Baer. Dan Soles and Dan Protess are the Executive Producers. The series is available on DVD and Blu-ray from PBS Distribution at pbs.org/shop.

Car Launch: 2019 Volkswagen Jetta

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Jul 122018

For its fortieth birthday, the VW Jetta compact sedan gets a new look for 2019, reflecting a discernibly new DNA. With plans to “become a volume brand in the United States,” Volkswagen will use an enhanced warranty, aggressive pricing, and improved fuel economy to make that happen.

While car sales are down, they’re definitely not out. More compact cars sold in March of this year than midsize, small, and large sport utility vehicles combined, according to The Wall Street Journal and rising gas prices will energize compact car sales even more.

The VW Jetta then and now.

Since its introduction in 1979, the Jetta has seen seven redesigns, each a subtle improvement on the last generation. Not so for the seventh version. With its bold trapezoidal grille, sloping roofline, rear spoiler, and available LED projector headlights, the new look amounts to a bold move for VW. It’s also longer, wider, and taller than the outgoing model.

At the recent launch in Durham, NC, attended by Latino Traffic Report, we drove the Jetta SEL powered by a 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with direct injection, standard on all 2019 Jettas, matched to the all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. A six-speed manual is available on the base model and for an extra $450, it can also be equipped with the blind spot, rear traffic, and forward collision warning systems. Rarely offered on a base model, much less one with a manual transmission, available technology like this represents another bold move for VW.

The engine produces 147 horses and 184 lb.–ft. of torque. Assisted by improved aerodynamics, the new Jetta has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 30 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 40 mpg on the highway with either the manual or the automatic. It averaged 35.8 mpg on the test drive.

An expanded exterior usually translates into a roomier interior, and so it is on the new Jetta, with more head, knee, and shoulder room than before. The standard 60/40-split rear seat also adds convenience and versatility. Additional standard convenience features include a rearview camera, a multi-function steering wheel, a trip computer displayed in the instrument cluster with information like fuel consumption, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, and AM/FM radio and one USB port. Stepping up one trim level to the SE, however, adds lots more stuff like, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic tilting sunroof,and most importantly, and the afore mentioned blind spot monitor, rear traffic alert, and forward collision warning with emergency braking.

Offering offering luxury features like heated and ventilated front seats, BeatsAudio, a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, ten-color ambient lighting, and Driving Mode Selection, VW’s compact sedan could be called the adult in its competitive set.

Finally, the Jetta will be covered by VW’s best-in-class transferable six-year/72,000-mile (whichever comes first) bumper-to bumper warranty, a move the manufacturer hopes will inspire renewed confidence in the brand.

Pricing for the 2019 Jetta starts at $19,440 with destination fees.

Latino Racers Help Toyota Win at LeMans

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Jul 032018

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, Circuit de la Sarthe, Le Mans, France.

Latino Traffic Report has learned that TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, including Fernando Alonso, won the eighty-sixth Le Mans 24 Hours, taking an historic first victory at its twentieth attempt.

Sébastien Buemi, Kazuki Nakajima and Alonso in the #8 TS050 HYBRID started from pole position and took the chequered flag after 388 tense and often dramatic laps at the Circuit de La Sarthe to extend their lead in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC).

Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi and José María López, who led for long periods in the #7 TS050 HYBRID, made it a perfect result for TOYOTA with second place in front of 256,900 fans.

“It has been amazing. We know how important and iconic Le Mans is in the world of motorsport and as a team we achieved an amazing result,” said Alonso. “Every moment was a reminder of how tough and long this race is, anything can happen so we tried to execute our race and stay calm. Happily everything worked well. We wanted a one-two and we achieved that so I am very happy.”

TOYOTA, which had entered 47 cars at Le Mans prior to this weekend’s race and finished on the podium six times, becomes only the second Japanese manufacturer to win at La Sarthe.

The result is a culmination of intense and determined efforts by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing colleagues from Higashi-Fuji and Cologne to continually enhance its hybrid-electric technology, which won this weekend’s race using 35 percent less fuel than in 2012, when it returned to endurance racing.

“I want to congratulate car #8 and the whole team,” said López. “I am really proud of my #7 team, and Kamui and Mike; we gave it our all. We are here as six drivers but there are so many people behind us, working so hard. This is a big achievement for TOYOTA and that was the main target this week.”

The two TS050 HYBRIDs were evenly matched throughout the 5,286km and swapped places several times during a race which featured its share of drama for the leaders.

After a nine-week break, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing will return to action on 17-19 August with the 6 Hours of Silverstone, the third round of the 2018-19 WEC season.

Car Review: 2018 Toyota Avalon Touring

Reviews, Toyota Comments Off

Jun 282018

When I hear the name Avalon, I think of my favorite album from the eighties by Roxy Music, Avalon. Legend also has it that Avalon is the birthplace of Excalibur, King Arthur’s sword. In 1994, Toyota chose the name for its all-new top-of-the-line midsize sedan. No pressure, right?

With a redesign coming in 2019, featuring a gargantuan grille, there’s still time to grab the 2018 model for fans of the current look. Latino Traffic Report recently drove two versions of the Avalon Touring, one in Ooh la la Rouge Mica and the other in Parisian Night Pearl (above).

An homage to the larger sedans of yore, the Avalon immediately impresses with its roominess, offering 42.1 inches of legroom in the front and 39.2 inches in the rear.

While the trunk can fit 16 cubic feet of cargo, the rear seats are not split for added cargo carrying ability.

Outside, the styling could be called understated, but the inside was rather elegant, with a dash, accented by smoked chrome details and a capacitive touch center stack for controlling the entertainment and climate control systems, plus a seven-inch split touchscreen.

Improvements for 2018 include the Toyota Safety Sense-P suite of technologies that are now standard like automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, and lane departure alert with steering assist. A backup camera is also standard.

While not the most expensive Avalon trim, the Touring is the second from the top out of five and as such, includes important technology like the available blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and a parking sensor. It’s also the sportiest trim with a sport- tuned suspension and eighteen-inch wheels with darkened rims.

A 3.5-liter V6 with dual variable valve timing with intelligence powers every Avalon. Matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, it produces 268 horsepower and 248 lb.–ft. of torque and has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. On the test drive I averaged 22.7–24.9 mpg.

The available hybrid powertrain also makes the Avalon unique in its segment.

Standard creature comforts include dual-zone climate control, Entune premium audio with integrated navigation, auxiliary USB ports, Bluetooth, a CD player, (great for playing the CD version of Avalon) leather seating with heated seats for the driver and front passenger, a leather-trimmed telescopic steering wheel with paddle shifters, and Qi compatible wireless smartphone charging. My iPhone 6s was not compatible.

The midsize sedan may be an endangered automotive species but it’s not dead yet and with its 24-year history, going on 25, the Toyota Avalon is quite the survivor.

Pricing for the 2018 Avalon XLE starts at $34,395. The as-tested price for the two Avalon Tourings came to $38,739 and $39,541 (with the addition of an illuminated door sill, $379 and wheel locks, $80).

Si: The Avalon’s interior roominess and capacitive center stack gave it a premium feel.

No: While the Touring is the sportiest Avalon trim, those darkened rims looked odd.

Maserati Issues Vehicle Recalls

Recalls Comments Off

Jun 142018

Latino Traffic Report has learned that Maserati North America, Inc. (Maserati) is recalling certain 2018 Maserati Quattroporte (below), Ghibli (right), and Levante (above) vehicles. The welds on the front sub frame may be incomplete, which can result in the welds breaking. If the welds fracture, it can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Maserati will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the sub frame for incomplete welds, replacing the sub frame, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin July 8, 2018. Owners may contact Maserati customer service at 1-877-696-2737. Maserati’s number for this recall is 369.

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Compact SUV Review: 2018 Buick Encore

Buick, Reviews Comments Off

Jun 012018

Fuel efficiency and versatility, that’s what makes the compact sport utility vehicles (SUVs) so appealing. Buick entered the segment in 2013 with the Encore, now Buick’s best-selling vehicle. Latino Traffic Report recently test-drove the 2018 Encore at a time of year that put its versatility to the test.

Offered in Encore, Preferred, Sport Touring, Preferred II, Essence, and Premium trims, I drove the latter that also included the available all-wheel drive.

The Encore arrived for testing in December, just in time for Christmas tree shopping. While it took three steps to fold the 60/40-split rear seat flat, once done it exposed 48.4 cubic feet of storage space, plenty of room for the six-foot Frasier Fur that I selected. Though I didn’t need to, I could have folded the front passenger seat flat to fit longer items. Cargo carrying also includes people and the Encore can seat up to five.

While all SUVs offer versatility, smaller ones navigate urban settings with greater ease. The Encore was no exception, performing handily, particularly when maneuvering through Austin’s holiday traffic.

Powered by a choice of two 1.4-liter turbocharged engines, the test model came with the more powerful of the two that can produce 153 horsepower and 177 lb.–ft. of torque and included Direct Injection with a subtle start/stop mode to conserve gas. It had an EPA estimated fuel economy of 26 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. I averaged 25.2 mpg during the weeklong test drive.

Tech features, like OnStar 4G LTE with a Wi-Fi hotspot, now standard across the brand’s model line sold in the United States, help the Encore stand out in a crowed field. The hot spot allows passengers to connect up to seven devices to high-speed wireless Internet.

Improvements for 2018 include high-definition radio, capless fuel fill, and the ionizing interior air cleaner (standard only on the Premium trim), Universal Home Remote (Essence and Premium trims) and a new exterior color Coppertino Metallic.

Standard convenience features on all Encores include push-button start, keyless unlock via the exterior door handles and an eight-inch color touchscreen, as well as Keyless Open and Start. As the top-of-the-line trim, the Premium test model also included a few more posh features like heated front seats and steering wheel, dual-zone air conditioning, and the Bose premium audio.

For added confidence, standard safety features include a rear-vision camera, StabiliTrak stability control system with full-function traction control, the OnStar basic plan for five years, and a theft deterrent system. The test model included blind spot and forward collision alerts, front and rear park assist, and rear cross traffic alert.

While pricing for the 2018 Encore starts at $23,915, stepping up to the Premium trim adds lots of dollars as well as stuff. The as-tested price that included the Experience Buick Package ($2,390) with navigation, a power moonroof, an eight-inch touch screen, and Apple Carplay and Android Auto capability, came to $36,820.

Sí: Roomy and nimble, the Buick Encore offers the versatility required of an SUV, especially a little one, and its fuel economy is competitive in the segment.

No: The Buick infotainment system was a little clunky, especially for selecting presets, and the price climbs quickly when adding features.