Reviews – Page 10 – Latino Traffic Report

Review: 2015 Chevy Trax LT

Chevrolet, Reviews Comments Off

Nov 212015

For 2015, Chevrolet opted to add yet another model to its lineup of small sport utility vehicles (SUVs), the 2015 Trax, its seventh small vehicle launch in four years. On a recent week-long test drive for Latino Traffic Report, the Trax put the “f” in functional and fuel-efficient.

Entering one of the fastest growing automobile segments, the Trax joins the Equinox, its slightly larger sibling that shares a platform with the Chevy Cruze. The Trax is built on the smaller Sonic platform, improving fuel efficiency and urban driving compatibility.

With seating for five, it has a 60/40 split rear row of seats that fold flat to create up to 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space. It’s a segment leader when it comes to interior functionality with 15 interior storage compartments including upper and lower storage in each door, and upper and lower glove boxes.

Powered by an Ecotec 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that’s matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, the Trax should achieve an EPA estimated fuel economy of 26 miles per gallon (mpg) city and 34 mpg highway. I averaged 30.3 mpg. Unlike its competitors, the Trax doesn’t offer a manual transmission.

Available in three trim levels, the test model was the Trax LT, one step up from the base LS and below the LTZ. While I drove a front-wheel-drive version, all-wheel drive is available on all models for an extra $1,500.

Additional functionality comes with standard remote keyless entry, programmable door locks, and a cargo storage tray.

Chevrolet MyLink Infotainment with a seven-inch-diagonal color touch screen is standard but the real standout is that OnStar, with 4G LTE and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, is too, offering even greater appeal to the always intriguing millennial population. On whenever the vehicle is on, the Wi-Fi comes with a three-month/three gigabyte data trial (whichever comes first). The Trax is also the first in its class to offer Siri Eyes Free for iPhone iOS 6, iOS 7 and iOS 8 users.

Because of its appeal to a population whose parents will probably purchase the Trax for them, it will be a comfort to know that it comes with ten standard air bags, StabiliTrak stability control, and a rear view camera. The test model also included the LT Plus Package ($670) that added a parking sensor, among other features.

Additional convenience features on the Trax include front-passenger fold-flat seats, a USB port for MP3s and iPods, air conditioning, power locks and windows, and an AM/FM stereo (the test model added XM Satellite Radio).

Pricing for the 2015 Trax starts at $21,195, a little above its competitors. The as-tested price came to $23,815.

Sí: The Trax offers nice functionality, advanced technology unique to its segment, and the security of OnStar.

No: I wish it came with a manual transmission option to improve fuel efficiency even more.

Review: 2016 Acura MDX

Acura, Reviews Comments Off

Nov 012015

With the launch of its platform mate, the all-new 2016 Honda Pilot, the Acura MDX also gets upgraded for 2016. While it may still look like the 2014 redesign, it contains more technology, luxury, and options than before.

Sharing a platform with the Pilot, there are several similarities, like push buttons for Park, Reverse, Drive, and Neutral rather than a shift knob. The seven-inch touchscreen in the center stack is similar to the Pilot’s except the MDX adds haptic touch—that buzzing sensation or thump you feel on your fingertips to help navigate the screen without looking at it.

All 2016 models are now equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission to improve fuel economy. Paired with the 3.5-liter V6 and Variable Cylinder Management, it should achieve an EPA estimated 19 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The test model I drove included idle stop technology that shuts the engine down at idle for saving even more gas, as well as Super Handling all-wheel drive. I averaged 21.2 mpg.

Additional luxury upgrades for 2016 include a frameless rearview mirror, Siri Eyes Free voice recognition, a tire pressure monitoring system with an audible alert to signal that the tire has been inflated to the correct pressure, and a Multi-View Angle Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines.

More advanced safety technology, however, will cost extra via the AcuraWatch, Advance or Technology packages. All the good stuff is here, e.g. Forward Collision Warning, the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), a blind spot warning system, even a parking sensor. It would be nice if one or more of these features were standard, especially at this price point.

The blind spot warning is located on the A-pillar rather than in the side mirror.

LKAS adds muscle with the new Road Departure Mitigation System that will keep you in your lane, including nudging the steering wheel or braking if necessary, so that it may feel like there’s a ghost in the machine.

The third generation MDX includes one of my favorite innovations, a push-button release on the side of the second row-seat and at the back of the headrest that moves the second row forward and to the side for easy access to the third row—no more broken nails at the hands of levers!

Second-row seat release button in headrest.

Second-row seat release button near the headrest.

Standard luxury features, like leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, wood accents, a premium audio system, and tri-zone climate control combined with available technology should keep the popular SUV at the top of its segment, but ultimately, it’s all in the package.

Indeed, there’s a veritable alphabet soup of available features and packages, like the MDX AWD ADV ENT (MDX with all-wheel drive, Advance, and Entertainment packages) that I drove. Totaling 16 variations, it may make choosing what MDX you’d like a little challenging.

Pricing for the 2016 MDX starts at $43,785. The as-tested pricing came to $58,000.

Sí: Love the push button release on the second-row seats for access to the third row.

No: Too many safety features are available in optional packages rather than standard.

Review: 2016 Kia Sorento SX

Kia, Reviews Comments Off

Oct 152015

Offering the versatility of a minivan, the crossover utility vehicle (CUV) gives shoppers a jazzier option for the family vehicle. First introduced in 2002, the Sorento represents Kia’s larger entry in this segment. On a recent test drive for Latino Traffic Report, I drove the newly redesigned 2016 model, specifically the Kia Sorento SX. Sporting a more refined exterior, the dapper CUV provides more versatility, technology, and value.

With a choice of five trim levels—L, LX, EX, SX and SXL, the third generation Sorento maximizes bang for the buck, starting with a nicely equipped base model. Driving the model just shy of the top-of-the-line SXL offered even more stuff.

Families will appreciate the choice of seating for five or seven, with two- and three-row configurations respectively; both versions include split seats that can be folded flat, expanding cargo room to 73.5 cubic feet.

The test model came with the available all-wheel drive (AWD) system and the 3.3-liter V6. According to EPA estimates, the V6 should achieve 17 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. I averaged 21.8 mpg.

The V6 produces 290 horses giving it an increased towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. when equipped with the AWD system that automatically routes power to the wheel with the most traction.

Two other engine options include and a new 2.0-liter inline-four turbo and a gasoline direct injection (GDI) 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder. The most fuel-efficient of the mix will be the front-wheel drive 2.4-liter with an EPA estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

All three engines are matched to an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission featuring Sportmatic simulated manual shifting. The standard Driver Mode Select allows drivers to choose among sport, normal, and eco modes, further improving driving performance on all models. I gravitate toward eco just to enhance fuel economy but a quick flick to sport does add oomph.

While standard safety features include traction and electronic stability control, the SX model did come with the optional rear-parking sensor, rear cross traffic alert, and blind spot detection. Happily, the Sorento received the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) 5-star overall safety rating.

Oddly, the around view monitor, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning are unavailable on most trim levels and optional, even on the top-of-the-line model.

While the base model starts with cloth seats treated with Yes Essentials for easier maintenance, the SX included leather seating and heated seats for the driver and front passenger. Cruise control, air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo with a CD player and MP3 connectivity, Sirius Satellite radio, Bluetooth, steering wheel mounted controls, and a fuel economy indicator, are also standard.

The SX added dual-zone air conditioning, push button start, a panoramic sunroof, navigation with an eight-inch display screen, and a smart, hands-free power liftgate.

Although I didn’t get to test it, the all-new Kia App Store offers apps that can be downloaded for free from iTunes or Google Play.

Built in the United States at the plant in West Point, Georgia and on sale now, the 2016 Kia Sorento has a starting price of $25,795. The as-tested price came to $40,595.

Sí: The Sorento is an elegant CUV from Kia with a good list of standard features.

No: Safety features like lane departure warning, and forward collision warning should be available on more than just the top-of-the-line model.

Kia Sedona-Long-term Review Pt. 1

Kia, Reviews Comments Off

Oct 012015

When it comes to versatility and convenience, minivans remain outmatched as a family vehicle. While the segment may not be the sexiest, it has attracted some new players, namely, the Kia Sedona. All new for 2015, the Sedona combines a handsome exterior with roominess and flexibility on the inside. I received the Sedona SX Limited (SX-L) in August for a six-month long-term loan. After only a few months on the road, the Sedona has impressed me with its elegance, comfort, and handling.

The beauty of a long-term loan is the chance it affords to explore all aspects of the vehicle in day-to-day driving conditions. This real world experience got a little too real, however, when the Sedona was vandalized while parked at the local post office, only weeks into the loan. The driver’s side window was broken and certain contents were stolen from inside, all in broad daylight and in a matter of seconds. The test drive was suspended for about a month until the window could be repaired.

Once back on the road, the Sedona has been quite a pleasure to drive. As with all Kias, it packs more features than normally associated with its segment, like ventilated as well as heated front seats, heated second-row cushions, a dual sunroof, and a driver mode select button (Eco, Normal, or Comfort), that helps improve the ride and handling as well as fuel economy.

I’ve only taken a few quick road trips but the miles per gallon have remained above the EPA estimated 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, averaging above 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. All Sedonas come with a 3.3-liter V6 engine matched to a six-speed automatic transmission with Sport-matic simulated manual shifting.

The keyless system with burglar and panic alarm, air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Satellite stereo system, back-up warning, Bluetooth wireless technology, and cruise control are also standard.

As the top-of-the-line model, the SX-L offers another unique feature, first class lounge chairs in the second row that give it seating for seven. Equipped with footrests, they recline as well as slide forward to improve access to the third row. They don’t however fold flat for extra cargo room and the manual levers can be a bit clunky to deploy. The third row, however, folds flat easily and quickly, expanding cargo room behind the second row to 78.4 cubic feet. The lower trims do include a second-row bench or traditional captain’s chairs.

Christmas is approaching and I look forward to testing the Sedona’s tree carrying ability. The loan ends in February. Stay tuned for updates on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Pricing for the 2015 Sedona starts at $26,995 but you won’t be able to get features like a power liftgate or sliding doors or upgrade it with any option packages. The as-tested price, with $2,700 of additional equipment like lane departure warning and a surround view monitor, came to $43,295.

Review: 2015 Toyota Camry XLE

Reviews, Toyota Comments Off

Sep 282015

Proverbial wisdom says, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” As the top-selling sedan in the country for more than a decade, the Toyota Camry would seem without fault, but while its reliability has been solid (the current recall notwithstanding), its looks were uninspired. On a recent test drive of the 2015 Camry XLE for Latino Traffic Report, the iconic midsize sedan sustained its expected on-road performance, but on the outside, a bolder design for the front bumper and grille and wider, sportier stance signaled change, and for Toyota, that’s a good thing.

The new Camry sits on a stiffer body structure, with additional spot welds to enhance rigidity. Better aerodynamics improve fuel economy while reducing interior noise, vibration, and harshness, i.e. it’s a quieter ride, plus a retuned suspension in all models enhances handling agility.

Digital screen in gauge cluster.

Toyota equips the 2015 Camry with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 178 horsepower and 170 lb.–ft. of peak torque. Matched with a six-speed automatic transmission, it should achieve an EPA-estimated city/highway fuel economy of 25/35 mpg. I drove the 2.5-liter and averaged 27.3 mpg. I also engaged the Eco mode for more fuel efficiency. The Camry also comes with a 3.5-liter V6 as well as a hybrid version.

The new 4.2-inch digital color screen located in the instrument cluster provided a wide range of vehicle functions, including my favorite, the average fuel economy calculator. It also coordinates with the multimedia system to display audio, navigation, warnings and communications. It’s standard on all but the base (LE) model. I also appreciated that the Tire Pressure Monitoring System displayed the pressure for each tire, taking the hassle out of figuring out which tire is low.

There’s a 6.1-inch screen at the center stack for handling the Entune entertainment system. The test vehicle was upgraded with the optional seven-inch screen. Programming radio stations was fairly effortless and I appreciated that you can choose up to 36. I only needed 24 for Satellite Radio and 12 for FM.

The 2015 Camry offers advanced safety features like the Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control or Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert. While I’d prefer that one or more of these features were standard, adding them won’t hike up the price exorbitantly. The test model included the Blind Spot Monitor for a mere $500 extra.

All Camrys do come with a backup camera, remote keyless entry, cruise control, and stability and traction control among other features.

The XLE grade I drove also included the Safety Connect telematics system (with a one-year complimentary trial subscription) that covers four safety and security features: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), and Roadside Assistance.

Creature comforts include Bluetooth for hands-free phone calls, a USB port, iPod integration, air conditioning, 60/40 split fold-down rear seat with center armrest with cup holders, tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio and hands-free phone controls, and Entune Audio that includes the 6.1-inch display screen, AM/FM CD player and MP3/WMA capability.

The XLE added dual-zone climate control, push button start, heated leather front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Built in Georgetown, Kentucky it’s available in four trim levels, the XLE being the top of the line. Pricing for the Camry starts at $23,795. The as-tested price that also included the Convenience Package ($845) and Entune premium audio with navigation ($685) came to $30,779.

Sí: New looks on the outside and nice set of standard features.

No: On the XLE, more safety technology, like the blind spot monitor, should be standard.

Review: 2015 Cadillac Escalade 4WD Premium

Cadillac, Reviews Comments Off

Sep 182015

No luxury brand adds bling to a vehicle like Cadillac, at least not for less than six figures.

Introduced in 1999, the Cadillac Escalade took the full-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) to a new level. A weeklong test drive of the all-new 2015 Escalade 4WD Premium for Latino Traffic Report left me fairly dazzled by all the stuff.

The evolution of the Cadillac design has been fun to watch, remember those iconic tailfins? The latest design DNA, with the upswept headlamps and sharp edged tail lamps, distinguishes a Cadillac from others on the road. The fourth-generation Escalade now looks a bit more like its siblings.

Its powerful 6.2-liter V8 mated to an eight-speed transmission can propel the Escalade from zero–60 miles per hour in less than six seconds.

While it can tow 8,100 pounds (8,300 with two-wheel drive), it’ll get you there with a suspension assisted by Magnetic Ride Control, which is standard.

What most impressed me about the Escalade was the safety technology that was included rather than packaged separately on all but the base model. I’ve driven luxury models that considered a parking sensor and rearview camera optional. Not so on the Escalade and in a big SUV like this, these features really matter.

Beginning with the Luxury trim level (second from the bottom) the Escalade comes with side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, and the driver awareness package with forward collision alert and lane change warning systems. The best part is that these features engage the driver via my favorite innovation, the Safety Alert seat, that buzzes you on the upper left or right thigh (depending on what side of the vehicle is most at risk) to get your attention. My second favorite was the heads up display, also included, that shows the speed limit.

Luxury features abound on the Escalade as well. The front seats were heated and cooled and the second row bench and leather wrapped steering wheel were heated. An entertainment system with a nine-inch screen for the back seats, a power sun roof, adjustable pedals for shorter folks like me, a split third row bench with power fold, standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot with 3GB/three-month data trial, and a power programmable liftgate with hands free capability, were included.

This list is just the tip of the iceberg.

The CUE infotainment system had nice features, like haptic touch, but the scrolling required to operate it can be distracting.

Cadillac was slow to include real wood in its vehicles but those days are gone. Real wood combined with premium cut-and-sewn materials and suede accents, along with ambient lighting, accentuate the interior.

Extremely well appointed, the Escalade Premium test model did include some optional features, like a retractable running board, that added $4,295 to the price.

We pay up for luxury vehicles because we want a vehicle that’s a cut above the rest, but the modern luxury car market is filled with brands that expect you to pay-up for features that less expensive models are offering as standard. Not so with the Cadillac Escalade. Yes, you’ll pay a pretty price, but you’ll be blinged out!

Pricing for the Escalade Luxury starts at $77,965—I’m not starting with the base (Standard) model since it excludes important safety features whereas the next step up, the Luxury, includes them as standard. The as-tested price came to $89,360.

Sí: Cadillac packages the Escalade in a manner befitting a luxury vehicle.

No: The base model is excluded from several features like a blind spot monitor or heads up display.

Reviews: 2015 Mazda3 i Touring

Mazda, Reviews Comments Off

Aug 242015

Offering great value, compact cars may be popular, but not extraordinary. The 2015 Mazda3 is one of the better choices in its segment.

This little four-door sedan (it’s also available as a five-door hatchback) sets itself apart from the competition in a couple ways—its SKYACTIVE system for better fuel economy and the availability of features not normally found at this price point.

The best-selling model for Mazda, it was redesigned in 2014 and was the first Mazda in North America to feature SKYACTIV components.

It’s available with two engine choices in the United States. I drove the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter four-cylinder that comes standard on the base model. A 2.5-liter is also available. Either can be mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

Score a point for Mazda for not limiting manual transmission enthusiasts to considering only an as-is base model like several manufacturers do. The test model I drove came with the automatic, which was nice, but with these little cars, a manual can be so much more fun.

As mentioned, Mazda introduced SKYACTIV to save gas. The EPA estimated fuel economy for the Mazda3 I drove was 30 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. I averaged 34.5 mpg.

The third out of four trim levels, the Touring version I drove really ramps up the packaging by including a blind spot monitor as a standard feature.

While a back-up camera will be required in all vehicles by 2018, my favorite safety feature is still the blind spot monitor. Who wouldn’t love a technology that could avoid more than 100 deaths and more than 8,000 injuries each year, according to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA)?

This feature first appeared on luxury models—I first experienced it in 2004 at the launch of the Volvo S60. It has begun to trickle down to more affordable models but usually as an option or part of a technology package. While NHTSA ponders requiring the technology on future vehicles, score another point for Mazda for being a trailblazer when it comes to bringing this feature to the masses.

Other cool standard features on the test model included a rearview camera, rear cross traffic alert, a leather-wrapped brake handle, shift knob and three-spoke steering wheel with contrast stitching, and 60/40 split rear seats with a rear seat folding armrest with cup holders.

All Mazda3s come with push button start, air conditioning, and remote keyless entry.

Another optional feature not normally offered at this price point is the Active Driving Display, a clear pop-up panel, vertically mounted behind the meter hood to deliver vehicle speed, navigational directions and other related driving information safely within the driver’s line of sight. Unfortunately, it’s not available on the Touring trim level I drove so I didn’t’ get to test it.

As a sedan, the Mazda3 adds versatility by stretching cargo room to 47.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.

Optional features on the test model included the Technology Package ($1600) that added dual-zone climate control, a CD player with MP3 connectivity (yay!), a moonroof, and the Bose nine-speaker stereo with Satellite Radio.

A true leader in its segment considering value, fuel efficiency, and versatility, the 2015 Mazda3 i Touring has a base price of $21,440. The as-tested price came to $23,410.

Sí: Standard blind spot monitor and manual transmission available throughout the lineup.

No: The audio system wasn’t very intuitive.

Reviews: 2015 Scion FR-S

Scion Comments Off

Jul 312015

Created with a youthful purpose, the Scion brand decided to have a little fun when it launched the FR-S sports coupe in 2013. A recent test drive of the 2015 FR-S confirmed that it’s still lots of fun to drive and well suited for drivers with a bit more spring in their step.

FR-S stands for front-engine rear-wheel drive (RWD) sport, making it the first Scion configured in such a way. Considered the mark of a true sports car, RWD pushes rather than pulls a vehicle. Exceptional balance and a low center of gravity factor in as well.

If you’ve seen a model that looks similar but not exactly like the FR-S, you’re not mistaken. A joint development between Subaru and Toyota, the FR-S has a sister model, the Subaru BRZ. A 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder boxer engine that really roars powers both and produces 200 horses. It earns an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 25/34 miles per gallon (mpg) when paired with the optional six-speed automatic transmission and 22/30 mpg with the six-speed manual transmission. I drove the automatic and averaged 26.8 mpg.

The engine’s compact size and flat shape allow it to be mounted mid-ship and extremely low, giving the car a favorable front-to-rear weight ratio and low center of gravity, i.e. it hugs the road, curves included. It’s also low to the ground, which made getting in and out a bit of a struggle, even for a shorty like me.

Adding to its performance, the automatic transmission featured Dynamic Rev Management technology that quickly raised the engine speed to help match engine revs to gear ratios on downshifts. Improving handling, MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone system in the rear complement the car’s low weight.

On the inside, bolstered front seats and a leather-trimmed tilt and telescopic steering wheel continued the sporty theme, while the rear seat folded down flat, creating flexible space. However, the manually adjustable front seats were a bit clunky.

Other standard creature comforts included an eight-speaker AM/FM/CD/HD/USB 300-watt maximum output Pioneer audio system, air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, and Bluetooth connectivity.

For an extra $1,199, the test model included a connected multimedia audio system called BeSpoke that allows owners to connect to iPhones and add personal content to the onboard infotainment system like Aha Internet radio with 1000 free stations.

Standard safety features included six airbags—dual-stage advanced driver- and front-passenger airbags, front-seat-mounted airbags, and side-curtain airbags. Like all Scions, the test model came with the Star Safety System that included Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Vehicle Stability Control, Brake Assist, the Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology (SST).

Launched with Generation X in mind, Scion stepped up its profile with the FR-S, a sports coupe for a new generation.

The no haggle or “pure price” cost for the 2015 FR-S starts at $25,670 with a manual transmission and $26,770 for the automatic. The as-tested MSRP came to $30,428.

Sí: The FR-S is super fun to drive and has a great engine rumble.

No: Ingress and egress are more suitable for younger folks and radio presets on the 6.1-inch touchscreen were twitchy.

Reviews: 2016 Hyundai Elantra GT

Hyundai, Reviews Comments Off

Jul 072015

On a recent test drive of the 2016 Hyundai Elantra GT for Latino Traffic Report, I was pleasantly reminded that cool technology and creature comforts on a vehicle aren’t reserved for luxury models.

The Elantra is just one step up from Hyundai’s most affordable model, the Accent and as a trim level, the Elantra GT five-door hatchback is one step up from the Elantra sedan. Refreshed for 2016, the Elantra GT sports a new grille and restyled 17-inch alloy wheels.

Upon entering the test model, I immediately noticed the panoramic sunroof. At this price point, that’s the kind of feature reserved for much more expensive models. It comes as part of the Tech Package ($3,950) that also includes leather seats, navigation, a rearview camera, dual-zone air conditioning that includes a CleanAir Ionizer, and the Hyundai Blue Link telematics system, among other features.

While heated seats are standard, the test model also had ventilated (cooled) seats, another unexpected feature, constituting a segment first. Not without gadgets, the Elantra GT also included a cooled glove compartment.

Offering the versatility of a hatchback with 51 cubic feet of cargo room once the 60/40 split rear seats are folded flat, the GT is powered by the 2.0-liter gasoline direct injected four-cylinder engine. Producing 173 horsepower and 154 lb.–ft. of torque, it has an EPA estimated fuel economy of 24 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. I averaged 29.1 mpg. There’s also an Active Eco button to enhance fuel economy but once engaged, it does produce a noticeable engine lag.

While a six-speed manual is available, the test model came with a six-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic simulated manual shifting.

Standard technology includes the Driver Selectable Steering Mode that allows drivers to choose among Sport, Comfort, and Normal modes to improve driving performance. Bluetooth, an AM/FM/SiriusXM Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with six-speakers and iPod/USB/auxiliary input jacks, and remote keyless entry, are also standard.

SoundHound app IDs that tune, the artist, and CD, in seconds.

One of my favorite new tech discoveries was the SoundHound app. Some audio systems can ID songs on the radio, but not for all stations, especially local independent ones, of which Austin has many. SoundHound can name any tune, even classical music! It’s a free app that you can also download onto your phone.

Stepping up to the GT also brings a blind spot mirror (instead of a monitor) on the driver’s side and steering wheel mounted stereo and cruise controls.

Some may put a premium on a car’s performance, but for the Latino car buyer, it’s all about bang for the buck. Hyundai’s made a habit of packaging vehicles with standard features that other brands consider optional.

Pricing for the Elantra GT starts at $19,625. The as-tested price came to $26,675.

Sí: Great packaging plus SoundHound app rocks!

No: The engine lacks punch and the rearview camera should be standard.

Reviews: 2015 Toyota Tundra 1794

Reviews, Toyota Comments Off

Jun 112015

Year after year, more trucks are sold in Texas than anywhere else in the country, making Texas the top truck market and the battle over it, pretty fierce.

In a genius move, Toyota opted to build its half-ton entry, the Tundra, in San Antonio in 2006, making it the only Texas-built pickup and Toyota a major employer, bringing more than 2300 jobs to the Alamo city. That number will expand further when Toyota relocates its headquarters to Plano, TX next year.

In 2014, Toyota took it up one more notch by introducing a special edition model, the Tundra 1794, a premium pickup named for the eighteenth century ranch in San Antonio founded by Juan Ignacio de Casanova and upon which the Toyota manufacturing plant currently sits.

On a recent test drive in Austin for Latino Traffic Report, the Tundra 1794 lived up to its position at the top of Toyota’s truck lineup.

For starters, it’s a premium pickup and that means the interior should be plush and this one is. The 1794 comes only in the CrewMax (supersized four-door) configuration giving it seating for five full-size passengers.

Design cues on the inside reflect a western theme with exclusive saddle brown (or more like nice burnt orange for Texas Longhorn fans) premium leather-trimmed seating with embossed leather and ultra-suede accents. Matching soft-touch materials also accent the shift console, the front and rear door trim, and the instrument panel.

Standard features like an AM/FM/CD stereo get upgraded to the Entune Premium JBL stereo with a seven-inch touch screen and navigation. Additionally, the power back window facing the bed, fancy floor mats with the 1794 brand, a tilt-sliding moonroof with sliding shade, and heated and cooled front seats are standard.

Parking in a parking garage made manageable with the back-up camera.

Toyota doesn’t offer a V6 engine on the Tundra, instead a 4.6-liter V8 is considered the standard engine. The 1794, however, comes with an upgrade—the 5.7-liter iForce V8 with 381 horses and 401 lb-ft of torque.

Matched to a six-speed transmission, it has an EPA city/highway estimated fuel economy of 13/17 miles per gallon (mpg). I averaged 16.2 mpg. The powertrain also has a towing capacity of 9,800 lbs. and a maximum payload of nearly 1600 pound in the 5.5-foot bed.

When it comes to safety features, a back-up camera and parking sensor are standard but the blind-spot monitor with rear-cross traffic detection remains a $470 option, even on the 1794. I’d certainly pay the extra price for these features, especially on a truck.

Pricing for the 2015 Tundra 1794 starts at $46,120. The as-tested price, which included the 4×4 configuration and a few other options like the blind-spot monitor, came to $49,715.

Sí: Attention to details and premium features make the Tundra 1794 competitive in its segment.

No: The blind-spot monitor should be standard on a top-of-the-line truck.