Launches – Page 3 – Latino Traffic Report

Launches: 2017 Hyundai Elantra

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Jun 242016

Launched in 1990, the award-winning Elantra is one of Hyundai’s all time best-selling models. For 2017, Hyundai manages to add new features and technology to the all-new Elantra, while dropping the starting price by $100. At the regional launch in New Orleans, the Elantra impressed Latino Traffic Report with its bar-raising segment firsts.

The redesign starts with a new look on the outside, defined by Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille and smoother contoured lines that enhance its aerodynamics. The redesign also includes equipment firsts like the available HID headlights with Dynamic Bending Lights, unique vertical LED daytime running lights, the LED door handle approach lights, and LED taillights.

Apple CarPlay

The base model Elantra SE matches the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a standard six-speed manual transmission. Great news for fans of the stick shift, except that it’s sold as-is. Stepping up to the Eco trim level makes the 1.4-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine matched to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission standard. The Eco trim should offer the best gas savings of all with an EPA estimated combined fuel economy of 35 miles per gallon (mpg).

At the launch, we drove the Limited trim level that’s powered by the 2.0 liter matched to a six-speed automatic Shiftronic transmission with the Active ECO System. We averaged 35.9 mpg while driving at a good clip and crossing state lines between Louisiana and Mississippi. Standard on all Elantras, the Drive Mode Select further enhanced its performance.

Stepping up to the Limited trim level brings many more advantages, including standard advanced safety features like a rearview camera, Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-traffic Alert, and Lane Change Assist. While not offered on the SE manual, they are available on the SE with the automatic transmission.

Premium soft-touch materials, new creature comforts like dual climate control, and available advanced technology like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, give the Elantra a more upscale interior. It’s also larger than its competitors, so much so that it’s classified as a midsize sedan by the EPA. Segment firsts include premium features like s a hands-free Smart Trunk—there’s no need to swipe a foot under the bumper, just approach with keys in your pocket and in a few seconds the trunk will open.

60/40-split folding rear seat

More segment firsts on the inside include the integrated memory system for the power driver seat and side mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and advanced ergonomic front seats. The Limited trim adds heated front seats and offers heated rear seats (not found among its competitors).

For added convenience, the rear seat is split 60/40, folding forward for additional cargo volume. The Elantra already offers class-above total interior volume with 110.2 cu. ft. Cargo volume in the trunk reaches 14.4 cu. ft.

Standard entertainment features include Smartphone/USB and auxiliary input jacks, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 Audio System, and complimentary SiriusXM activation with a three-month trial subscription.

In a competitive segment like compact cars, the Elantra excels at offering a generous list of standard and available features, including some not normally found among its competitors.

Pricing for the 2017 Elantra SE starts at $17,985, while pricing for the Limited starts at $23,185.

Buick’s 2016 Cascada Crosses the Pond

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Mar 172016

If you ask me, there really aren’t enough convertibles on the road today. Thankfully, Buick will add to this niche of a segment with the 2016 Cascada. Hoping to compete with higher-end models like the Audi A3 Cabriolet, the Cascada combines good looks with a competitive price.

Fun by nature, convertibles elevate the driving experience with a unique sense of freedom, but there’s usually a premium placed on feeling the wind in your hair. Considered a halo car for Buick, the Cascada is the brand’s first convertible in 25 years.

Latino Traffic Report recently attended the launch in Miami where the two-door ragtop embraced what little sunshine peaked through the clouds on the way to Key West. Offered only in black, the automatic roof should take 17 seconds to recline fully beneath a hard tonneau. You can start the process with the car moving up to 31 mph.

Built as a convertible not a topless version of an already existing model, the Cascada looks good with the top up or down. Its global profile reflects the Opel version upon which it’s based. However, it also means that the Cascada lacks technologies like a blind spot monitor, active cruise control, and push button start because they’re not currently on the Opel version, according to engineers at the launch.

Current standard safety features include a rearview camera, Rear Park Assist, rollover bars behind the rear seat, articulating headlamps and front LED daytime running lamps, and StabiliTrak stability and traction control. Stepping up to the Premium trim level adds Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and Front and Rear Park Assist.

Powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, direct injection and variable valve timing complement the turbo engine’s performance. Matched to a six-speed automatic transmission and using electric power steering, it should achieve an EPA estimated fuel economy of 20 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

The innovative HiPer Strut front suspension introduced on the LaCrosse and Regal, and the Watts Z-link suspension in the rear improve ride and handling. There weren’t many curves on the way to Key West but the Cascada felt firm and confident on the road.

On the inside, the posh theme continues with soft-touch material and authentic stitching on an instrument panel. Standard creature comforts include dual-zone air conditioning, heated front seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel, Buick IntelliLink with a seven-inch-diagonal color touch screen featuring Text Message Alerts, Siri Eyes Free for Apple phones with an iOS 6 or newer operating system, AM/FM/SiriusXM stereo, CD/DVD player and MP3 player with navigation, remote vehicle starter, and OnStar 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot.

While some tech features are missing on the Cascada (hopefully they will be added in future versions), a new entry in the convertible segment is cause for applause.

With only two trim choices on for Buick’s new convertible, the Cascada and Cascada Premium, pricing starts at $33,990 and $36,990 respectively.

Redesigned 2016 Kia Optima Scales New Heights in Aspen

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Feb 042016

2016 Kia Optima SXL

With so many advances in the industry, it’s hard to find a dud on a new car lot these days. The launch of the all-new Kia Optima midsize sedan improves the selection even further.

The brand’s bestseller for the last three years, Kia ramps up the 2016 version with a more refined exterior design, new technology, and creature comforts offered at the same starting price as the outgoing model.

At the launch in Aspen, Colorado, the longer, wider and stiffer Optima hugged the road nicely. Its increased dimensions also translate into a roomier and more comfortable cabin with more head, shoulder, and rear seat legroom. Plus the trunk expands to 15.9 cu. ft. and the 60/40 split rear seat also folds flat for even more room.

There will be three available four-cylinder engines to power the Optima distributed among five trim levels. We drove the top-of-the-line SX and SXL trims powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Sportmatic simulated manual shifting. This is not the most fuel efficient of the three engines but it is the most powerful with 245 horses and 260 lb.–ft. of torque. The sport-tuned suspension and paddle shifters improved performance on the launch models, though the throttle response on the turbo was a little hesitant.

The lower level trims will come with a 2.4-liter or an all-new 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, matched to a six-speed automatic or seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission, respectively. While all three engines include the Active Eco System and Driver Mode Select with an Eco option to conserve gas, the most fuel-efficient will be the 1.6-liter earning an EPA estimated combined fuel economy of 32 miles per gallon. Plug-in and hybrid models will also be introduced this year.

The sleeker and contoured European-inspired exterior is matched to a super plush interior on the SX and SXL that included diamond-quilted and heated leather seats plus metallic accents. The base model will come with cloth seats.

Standard features include chrome accent door handles, air conditioning, cruise control, an AM/FM/MP3 audio unit with satellite radio, a five-inch LCD rear-camera display, three USB jacks, Bluetooth, and a tilt and telescopic steering wheel. Push button start, a rear spoiler, heated steering wheel, dual-zone air conditioning, and Bi-Function Xenon HID headlamps with a self-leveling feature are standard on the SX. The SXL adds a panoramic sunroof with power shade, advanced smart cruise control, Harman/Kardon Quantum Logic Surround

Premium Audio System, and ventilated front driver and passenger seats, among other features. The major advantage of the SXL, however, is a suite of standard safety features that includes a rear parking sensor, blind spot and rear cross traffic detectors, and front collision warning system.

For the digitally astute, Kia’s UVO connectivity system comes standard with four additional eServices not previously available on the Optima, it’s also Kia’s pilot vehicle for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (late availability) that connects drivers to functions on their smartphones.

Packing more content at a lower price has helped establish the Korean carmaker in the United States. Competing in one of the most competitive and crowded segments, the 2016 Optima should remain a top-seller.

Built at Kia’s plant in West Point, Georgia, the Optima’s pricing starts at $22,840 while the SX and SXL start at $30,640 and $36,740, respectively.

2016 Kia Optima SX

New Passat Adds Value and Refinement for 2016

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Jan 092016

It’s not easy being a midsize sedan, what with all the competition. Designed specifically for the U.S. market, the Volkswagen Passat adds a European option to the segment at a surprisingly affordable price. For 2016, the German sedan bears a new look and even more bang for the buck.

Volkswagen’s design DNA could be called understated, so one shouldn’t expect the new Passat to be remarkably different from the outgoing model. Designers made subtle changes on the outside to make it appear more streamlined.

2016 Passat S

At the launch in Vermont, premium touches like a new dashboard and center console, along with integrated two-tone decor panels, and a new frameless rearview mirror elevated my first impression of the interior. Volkswagen also gave journalists a rare opportunity to drive the base or S model, offering a well-rounded view of the lineup.

Built in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the 2016 Passat can be powered by either of two engines—the 1.8-liter TSI turbocharged four-cylinder or a 3.6-liter VR6. Volkswagen has suspended the sale of diesels for now.

Made in Silao, Mexico, the turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder engine produces 170 horsepower and 184 lb.–ft. of torque using regular gasoline. Matched to the six-speed automatic, the Passat should achieve an estimated fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. I achieved 36.8 average mpg at the launch.

The 3.6-liter VR6 produces 280 horsepower and 258 lb.–ft. of torque with premium fuel. It should earn an EPA-estimated highway mileage of 28 mpg with the six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters add to its sporty performance and handling.

New technology, like the available Easy Open trunk also, adds value and keeps the Passat on trend. Easy Open Truck allows the driver, within three feet of the trunk, to use his feet to activate a sensor near the rear of the vehicle, opening the trunk hands-free.

Volkswagen’s signature infotainment system, MIB II, comes standard with a five- or 6.3-inch touchscreens and most models include a display capacitive touch sensor that enables gesture controls like swiping and pinch zooming. Internet connections are available via Car-Net features that include App-Connect technology that can be integrated with three major Smartphone platforms— Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink.

While advanced safety technology, like a blind spot monitor, is unavailable on the base model, it is standard on the SE w/Technology models and up. All Passat’s do come equipped with a rearview camera and Volkswagen’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, first launched on the 2015 Golf. As the name implies, it applies the brakes after a primary collision helping to reduce residual kinetic energy and, in turn, reduce the chance of additional damage.

2016 Passat SE

Standard creature comforts include dual- zone climate control, a steering wheel with audio and phone control, a CD player, and a 60/40-split rear seat for added cargo space. The large trunk can accommodate 15.9 cubic feet of luggage.

Available in multiple trim levels, starting prices range from $23,260 (with destination fees) for the S, to $35,090 for the SEL Premium. New features on the base model, however, account for a value of $1,315. The best buy, however, may be the SE w/Technology, starting at $29,230, because of standard features like the afore mentioned blind spot monitor, Rear Traffic Alert with braking, and keyless entry with push-button start.

Volvo Adds Inches and Capability to the 2016 S60 Lineup

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Dec 112015

2016 Volvo S60 Cross Country

In the luxury segment, compact sedans abound, but only one comes from a company based in Sweden, the Volvo S60. For 2016, Volvo adds two new models to the S60 lineup, the Inscription, for those who’d like even more rear legroom and the Cross Country, for more adventurous drivers. At the recent launch in Sausalito, the two sedans demonstrated what Volvo does best, design and safety.

The test drive began with the all-new Inscription Platinum (there’s also a Premier trim), a model that will sit near the top of the line for the S60, setting itself apart with three additional inches of legroom in the back seat, the most of any luxury class sedan.

2016 Volvo S60 Inscription

The Inscription comes with a choice of two engines—a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 240 horsepower and 258 lb.–ft. of torque or a 2.5-liter five-cylinder turbocharged engine with 250 horses and 266 lb.–ft. or torque. Each engine is matched to a specific Geartronic automatic transmission with Sport Mode—an eight-speed with the 2.0-liter or a six-speed with the 2.5-liter. We drove both at the launch.

The best fuel economy will come from the 2.0-liter, which should achieve an EPA estimated 25 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.

The S60 Cross Country will be offered in one version, Platinum, with the 2.5-liter and all-wheel-drive with Instant Traction that gives it an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 20/28 mpg.

Drive–E technology on both engines utilizes a turbocharger and direct-injection to deliver power and improved fuel economy. When engaged, the ECO+ system stretches gasoline further (up to five percent), with Start/Stop, Eco-coast, and Eco-climate functions.

All S60s include a leather steering wheel and gearshift knob, a 60/40-split rear seat, Bluetooth, Sirius Satellite Radio, and Volvo Sensus Connect infotainment with a seven-inch high-definition color monitor that manages information from the audio unit, navigation and other functions. Besides the extra rear legroom, the Inscription adds contour seats, linear walnut inlays, a power rear window sunshade, rear side sunshades, and a rear park assist camera. The Cross Country adds the Harman Kardon premium sound system.

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)

With a reputation for safety, it’s no surprise that the City Safety system that helps prevent or mitigate collisions at speeds of 31 mph or less is also standard on all models. However, technology, like Volvo’s blind spot information system (BLIS) and cross traffic alert, remain optional, even on the Inscription Platinum and Cross County trims.

With distinct design cues, like a honeycomb grille, and capability, like a lower skid plate, side scuff plates, and black fender extensions, the segment-first Cross Country sedan emulates Volvo’s Cross Country wagons. It will offer better off-road capability, starting with 7.9-inches of ground clearance and standard Hill Descent Control.

Volvo S60 Cross Country

All S60s come with Dynamic Stability and Traction Control, Advanced Stability Control, and Corner Traction Control by Torque Vectoring. At the launch, these technologies were put to the test by accelerating in a tight circle, i.e. donuts, to show how they managed to keep the sedan under control.

Roomy and versatile, these two new S60s maximize the appeal of Volvo’s entry-level sedan.

Pricing for the 2016 S60 Inscription and Cross Country starts at $39,640 and $44,400, respectively.

The Sun Rises on the 2016 Hyundai Tucson

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Oct 072015

2016 Tucson

While the compact crossover utility vehicle (CUV) segment continues to expand, the third generation Hyundai Tucson has a leg up on the competition. Considered a “stepping stone” to its larger sibling, the Santa Fe Sport, the redesigned 2016 Tucson appeals to buyers, e.g. young families, with fuel economy, safety technology, and versatility.

At the regional launch in Asheville, North Carolina, the Tucson handled nicely on curves while maintaining low noise, vibration, and harshness in the cabin—sound dampening and insulation improvements make it one of the quietest in its segment.

Available in four trim levels, a 2.0-liter, direct injected four-cylinder with 164 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission powers the base or SE model. The 2.0-liter should achieve an EPA estimated fuel economy of 23 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. A larger fuel tank also improves driving range.

A 1.6-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder with 175 horsepower matched to a first–in-segment seven-speed EcoShift dual clutch automatic transmission powers the three remaining trims Eco, Sport, and Limited. Available in front-wheel- or all-wheel-drive versions, the 1.6-liter paired with the Eco trim level offers the best fuel economy. It should achieve an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 26/33 mpg. At the launch, we drove Limited and Sport versions and the fuel economy remained close to the expected combined fuel economy of 29 mpg for the AWD and 27 mpg for the FWD.

For better performance, driver’s can also engage Drive Mode Select, standard on all models, to select a desired setting among Eco, Normal, and Sport. On the test drive, Sport mode provided a definite energy boost.

Rear cargo area increases by 5.3 cubic feet to 31 total. With the 60/40 split rear seats folded flat it expands to 61.9 cubic feet. There’s also an innovative dual-level cargo floor in the rear that can be lowered two inches for packing smaller items.

The smart cargo liftgate is available with a hands free mode that automatically opens the rear liftgate after three seconds if it senses the keys are within three feet, i.e. you don’t have to wave a foot below the bumper to engage it.

Standard features on the base model include a rearview camera, a blinds spot mirror on the driver’s side, remote keyless entry with alarm, electronic stability control, and traction control. Stepping up to the Sport model adds more cutting edge features like a blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, and lane change assist. To get Hyundai’s newest safety feature, a pedestrian sensor with braking, you’ll have to add the Ultimate Package, but that also includes heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats.

Standard creature comforts include a tilt and telescopic steering wheel with radio and cruise controls, YES Essentials cloth seats, air conditioning, a five-inch color touchscreen with AM/FM/SiriusXM/CD/MP3 audio system, and iPod/USB/auxiliary input jacks.

Pricing for the 2016 Tucson SE base model, which is not sold as-is but can still be upfitted with a few optional features, like roof rails or illuminated vanity mirrors, starts at $23,595.

All-New Nissan Maxima Elevates Form and Function

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Aug 242015

2016 Nissan Maxima

I first met the Nissan Maxima in 1985 when my friend rolled up in a brand new one. Just hired out of college by Marriott Hotels as the new comptroller for the Dallas region, she felt the Maxima would reflect well on her status as a young executive. I was amazed at its plushness and those colored keys under the driver’s side exterior door handle for programming the locks.

Nissan recently ventured to Dallas, Texas to introduce the eighth generation of its “four-door sports car.” The all-new 2016 Maxima lives up to its halo status. For starters, it’s a beauty. The “energetic design” including the signature V-Motion grille, jet fighter-inspired zero gravity front seats with sport bolstering, and floating roof embodies its four-door sports car moniker from Nissan.

Available in five as-is trim levels (there are no optional packages or features), S, SV, SL, SR and Platinum, it will make shopping simpler but may also frustrate buyers who would like to add features like a dual panoramic sunroof, available only on the SL and Platinum trim levels. Some factory installed accessories, like splash guards and spoilers are available.

Still, Maximas do come loaded with creature comforts and technology.

All Maximas include a seven-inch Advanced Drive-Assist Display, a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, HD radio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, a CD player (you can still get a six-CD player on S and SV models) Bluetooth hands-free phone system, a rear view monitor, Nissan Intelligent Key with push button ignition, and NissanConnect with navigation and an eight-inch touchscreen.

At the launch, the top-of-the-line Premium trim was featured. Inside, quilted leather seats and faceted finishes on knobs, etc. added to its plushness.

2016 Maxima headlamp detail

Powered by an improved 3.5-liter V6 with 300 horsepower matched to a new performance-oriented Xtronic transmission, the Maxima’s expected to improve in fuel economy, earning 22 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

For better performance, the Drive Mode Selector (Sport and Normal modes) adjusts throttle response, steering feel and transmission tuning. On the test drive, there was a noticeable difference in Sport mode, including tighter steering.

The new Maxima also offers an extensive range of safety, security and driving aids, including Predictive Forward Collision Warning Intelligent Cruise Control, Forward Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Blind Spot Warning. However, these features are not standard on all Maximas, only the SL, SR and Platinum grades.

Like its predecessors, the new Maxima packs a lot of punch and features in an elegant package with sporty performance.

Pricing will start at $33,235.

Launches: New VW Golf Sportwagen Stretches Fuel, Gas or Diesel

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Aug 192015

AUSTIN, TX—Volkswagen traveled to Austin this year to launch the 2015 Golf Sportwagen. Surprisingly affordable, the Golf lineup now adds versatility with this extended version, plus impressive fuel economy.

The manufacturer remains loyal to diesel powertrains and manual transmissions (technology known for stretching a tank of fuel), offering a 2.0-liter, 150-horsepower turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder TDI Clean Diesel, fitted with a six-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The base engine is the gasoline-powered 1.8-liter, 170-horsepower turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder TSI engine mated to a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

Both engines boast impressive fuel economy, with the diesel averaging an EPA estimated 35 miles per gallon (mpg), while the 1.8-liter should average 29 mpg. On the road test that took us into the Texas Hill Country, both engines performed well with the diesel and gas engines averaging 39.5 mpg and 31.9 mpg, respectively.

As an added treat, the launch also included new experiences for this 32-year Austin resident, including dinner at Rabbit’s, the East Austin landmark known as the place Latino wheeler dealers used to congregate, and lunch at the critically acclaimed Qui Austin restaurant, also on East Sixth Street. Owned by Top Chef champion, Paul Qui, the restaurant critic’s darling was oddly missing a sign on the outside—the clientele apparently “just know” where to find it. But I digress.

Like the Jetta Sportwagen it replaces, the Golf version will appeal to families, but also active folks with cargo carrying needs. The rear seats are split and fold down easily, expanding the cargo space to 66.5 cubic feet. Plus, the roof is lower to make it easier to load bicycles and such on top.

When it comes to safety, the Sportwagen lacks some modern technology like a blind spot warning system but the 2016 model should rectify that. Standard features include electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, the new Automatic Post-Collision Braking system that continues to apply brakes after a crash to avoid additional collisions, and the roadside assistance program for three-years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first).

Available safety technology includes parking sensors and forward collision warning.

On the inside, standard creature comforts include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, steering wheel controls, a 5.8-inch touch screen infotainment center with a capacitive sensor, Sirius XM Satellite radio, Bluetooth technology, air conditioning, VW Car-Net connected services, and V-tex leatherette seating.

The TDI adds keyless entry with push-button start and a rearview camera.

A panoramic sunroof is standard on all but the base model Sportwagen.

Hecho en México at the plant in Puebla, the 2015 Golf Sportwagen has a base price of $22,215 while the TDI, with a base price of $25,415, is $2,000 less than the outgoing Jetta version.

The VW Golf impressed auto writers enough to win the 2015 North American Car of the Year honors. More versatile and fuel efficient, its new sibling should grab a bit of the spotlight as well.

Launches: Volvo Introduces the All-New XC90

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Jul 162015

When Volvo first launched its sport utility vehicle (SUV), the XC90, more than ten years ago, I was there. Fast forward to 2015 and Santa Monica, California, and I’m back for the launch of the all-new 2016 XC90. Highly acclaimed when it was first introduced, the latest version takes the SUV to a new, more luxurious level.

Like its predecessor, the XC90 captures attention from its design. It bears the “new face” of Volvo that includes a new grille with a prominent iron mark and revamped headlamps with the T-shaped “Thor’s Hammer” design cue.

Competing in the premium SUV market, the XC90’s interior will be its ace in the hole. Scandinavian aesthetics, combining beauty and utility, abound, from the diamond cut metal around the control knobs, to the tablet-inspired nine-inch touch screen above the center stack where drivers can control the entertainment, climate, telephone, and navigation systems, or Sensus interface. Sensus can also access a wide selection of cloud-based applications.

Center stack display with a 360 back-up camera view.

Center stack display with a 360-degree back-up camera view.

On the plug-in hybrid version of the XC90, the gear lever is made of crystal from Orrefors, the Swedish glassmaker. It’s simply stunning.

Yet, with all this bling, there is one exception. Oddly, the tilting and telescopic steering wheel has a manual control rather than electronic.

The leather seats are configured to mimic the shape of the human spine to seat seven passengers comfortably and safely. The second row seats slide, as well as recline. Volvo’s innovative integrated child seat is optional as is a massage function.

Standard features like a panoramic sunroof, a 12.3-inch digital and configurable gauge cluster, and a separate climate control system for the rear seats further enhance the interior.

If the interior is the ace in the whole, then the XC90’s engine lineup is its royal flush.

True to Volvo’s commitment of utilizing four-cylinder engines exclusively, the XC90 offers two versions, one for its gasoline model, the T6, and the other for the world’s first seven-seat plug-in hybrid, the T8. Don’t let the numbers, six and eight, fool you. They only imply the kind of performance the T6 and T8 deliver, 316 and 400 horsepower, respectively from their supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder powertrains. Wow.

The EPA estimated fuel economy for the T6 is 20 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The plug-in hybrid should get an estimated fuel economy of 59 mpg equivalent (mpge) that includes a 17-mile range on electric power. Both are matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The all-new Volvo XC90 – seven-seat interior overview.

Driving up the Pacific Coast Highway and outlying areas, the XC90’s performance and handling was truly impressive, even more so with the Dynamic mode engaged. Drivers can also choose Comfort, Eco, and Off-road driving modes.

Known for advances in safety, e.g. the integrated child safety seat, Volvo equips the XC90 with the latest collision avoidance systems—run-off road protection and auto braking at an intersection—as well as all-wheel drive with instant traction control.

The blind spot information system, parking sensor, 360 surround view (back-up) camera, and lane keeping aid are available as part of optional packages. At least one of these systems should be standard, especially on a Volvo.

Still, the new XC90 won’t disappoint Volvo fans and more than likely, will win a few more.

Pricing for the XC90 T6 and T8 starts at $49,895 and $69,095, respectively.

Ram Joins the Compact Commercial Van Segment

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Jun 252015

Ram ProMaster City next to “Chingon” from the movie, Machete.

Austin, TX – Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) came to town to launch the all-new, 2015 Ram ProMaster City. It’s always nice to attend vehicle launches in Austin. As a local, chances are I won’t get lost on the ride-and-drive.

While it took a while to catch up to Ford, which introduced the Transit Connect in 2009, the compact commercial van market has taken off, gaining three new competitors in the past two years, including the ProMaster City.

New to the United States, it’s based on a tried and true platform for Fiat, the Doblò, which is sold worldwide. Considered one of the largest producers of commercial vehicles, Fiat Professional has more than 110 years of experience.

The ProMaster City reflects this history with innovations like 60/40 split rear doors. Rather than block the path to the curbside of the van, the larger door swings open toward the traffic (driver) side of the van, for easier access to larger cargo items. A low step-in height helps too.

Additionally, the ProMaster City includes a sliding door on each side that securely latches in the open position to prevent an accidental closure if the vehicle is parked on a slope.

The front-wheel-drive van handled nicely at the launch, on a course at the Troublemaker Studios lot owned by filmmaker Robert Rodriguez and producer Elizabeth Avellan. I didn’t get a celebrity sighting but it was nice to eat lunch on the set of the TV series, From Dusk Till Dawn, and to check out the actual muscle car driven by actor Danny Trejo (the new spokesman for Dodge) in the movie, Machete, directed by Rodriguez and Ethan Maniquis.

The Ram ProMaster City on the course at Troublemaker Studio.

The Ram ProMaster City Tradesman on the course at Troublemaker Studios.

The van’s unibody design and bi-link rear suspension also improve the ride and handling.

Powered by a 2.4-liter Tigershark I-4 engine and matched to an exclusive nine-speed automatic transmission, the van achieves an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 21/29 miles per gallon.

Ram ProMaster Wagon.

It has a payload of 1,883 pounds and the cargo volume adds up to 131.7 cubic feet of space. The cargo width and length of 60.4 inches and 87.2 inches, respectively, allow for good flexibility and configurability. The vertical side panels are upfitter-friendly and simplify the attachment of shelves or storage racks for specialized commercial use. Both cargo volume and payload are best in class.

If needed, a tow package is available giving the van a 2,000-lb. towing capability.

Seating on Ram ProMaster Wagon.

Like its competitors, the ProMaster City also comes in a version for families—a five-seat passenger wagon—as well as the two-seat Tradesman cargo van. Both include two trim levels, Tradesman and Tradesman SLT Cargo Van and Wagon and Wagon SLT, as well as eight different configurations.

On the wagon model, the three-passenger, second-row seating is split 60/40, with each section capable of folding and tumbling forward to expand cargo room.

Standard creature comforts include air conditioning, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, power windows, and Uconnect AM/FM with media hub with USB and auxiliary input.

Electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist, trailer-sway damping, brake assist, all-speed traction control, remote keyless entry, a tire pressure monitor, and side curtain airbags makeup some of the standard safety features.

Families and entrepreneurs will enjoy tooling around town in the Ram ProMaster City.