Latino Traffic Report

Sporty by Nature

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Sep 012019

Daily Drives that Perform

Sports cars attract a singular buyer because that level of performance comes at a high price, but what about the rest of us? Happily, nearly every automotive brand offers at least one sporty option in their lineup that won’t break the bank. For those who’d like a little more performance in their daily drives, Latino Traffic Report (LTR) recently tested the following options.

Toyota Corolla Hatchback

Originally called a liftback, the Corolla Hatchback is back as an official member of the lineup for 2019. LTR recently tested the 2019 Corolla XSE (above), one of two available trims and the sportiest with standard 18-inch wheels, LED fog lights, and a chrome front grille surround. The test model also came in a special Blue Flame exterior paint.

A 2.0-liter Dynamic-Force direct-injection inline four-cylinder engine with 168 horsepower and 151 lb.–ft. of torque powers all Corolla Hatchbacks. While a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is available, the test model came with the six-speed manual transmission combined with a multi-link suspension with a stabilizer bar, and updated shock absorbers and springs that added sportiness and lots of fun to the drive.

The EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy was 28/37 miles per gallon (mpg). The test model averaged 31.5 mpg.

Sitting in the hatchback, it felt finished and a bit upscale, that’s because the XSE grade added fancy standard features, including dual-zone climate control, two-tone combination leather seating, and heated front seats. Unique stitching on its instrument panel and doors, the multifunction steering wheel and a seven-inch TFT Multi-Information Display (MID) that showed vehicle information like turn-by-turn navigation and a new feature, Road Sign Assist, set it even further apart.

Toyota’s infotainment system, the Entune 3.0 Audio Plus, is standard on the XSE and features Sirius/XM satellite radio and a high-resolution eight-inch multimedia touchscreen. Apple Car Play is standard on all Corolla Hatchbacks.

Standard semi-autonomous features included Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, and adaptive cruise control. My favorite safety feature, the Blind Spot Monitor, was also standard on the XSE.

Pricing for the 2019 Corolla Hatchback starts at $20,910. The as-tested price came to $23,910.

Mazda Miata MX-5

*MX-5 Miata* *Thirtieth Anniversary edition.*

Since its introduction 30 years ago, the Mazda Miata combined a striking design, nimble performance, and a drop top with a surprisingly affordable price. LTR recently tested the 2019 Miata MX-5 Grand Touring soft top and happily, not much has changed to lessen its appeal. Indeed, when the thirtieth anniversary edition was unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show this year, the 500 anniversary models set aside for sales in the United States sold out in four hours.

The modern Miata is sleeker but its agility will still make its owners smile. A sport-tuned suspension and Bilstein shock absorbers enhanced handling further on the test model.

Formerly the top-of-the-line trim out of three until the anniversary edition was introduced this year, the Grand Touring trim comes equipped with posh features like, heated leather seats, automatic air conditioning, and Mazda navigation with traffic sign recognition. The blind spot monitor becomes a standard feature on the Club trim, one below the Grand Touring, so it was included as well.

All Miatas are powered by 2.0-liter four-cylinder Skyactiv engine with 181 horsepower and 151 of lb.–ft. of torque. While an automatic transmission is available, thankfully the test model came with a six-speed manual transmission that elevated the driving experience. Fuel economy is also an added plus with an EPA estimated city/highway rating of 26 mpg and 34 mpg respectively. It earned an average of 34.1 mpg on the test drive.

The canvas top remains manually operated but it can literally be done while siting in the car with one hand. A retractable hardtop version is also available.

Pricing for the 2019 Miata MX-5 starts at $26,625. The as tested price came to $33,050.

Subaru Crosstrek

In the car world “sporty” almost always describes a performance or sports car. But for this list, we broadened the definition of sporty to include off-road performers as well. With its symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD), the Subaru Crosstrek can handle the outdoors for owners who want to take it there, but it also has sporty qualities that set it apart in its segment.

The tested model was the Crostrek 2.0i Limited with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (right)—a suite of autonomous safety features, from pre-collision braking to adaptive cruise control. For 2019, it’s now available on all 2019 Crosstrek trim levels.

All Crosstreks are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder Subaru Boxer engine that delivers 152-hp and 145 lb.–ft. of torque. Transmissions do vary, however, starting with a six-speed manual. The tested model, however, included a CVT with a seven-speed manual mode function and steering wheel paddle shifters for those who want the performance of a manual transmission but without the clutch. Not only did the CVT offer the better fuel economy, with an average of 29 mpg, it added muscle as well with an X-MODE and Hill Descent Control for better traction off-road. The test model also included 18-inch alloy wheels in black with a machine finish.

Some call it a wagon, others a compact SUV but either way, the Crosstrek offers the convenience of both with a rear seat that folds to expose 55.3 cubic feet of cargo room.

As the top-of-the-line trim, the test model also included convenience features like an eight-inch touchscreen with voice-activated controls, Keyless Access with Push-Button Start, Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Pricing for the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek starts at $22,870. The as-tested price came to $28,170.

Lexus IS 300

For its entry-level offering, Lexus introduced the 2001 IS compact sport sedan in 2000, allowing more buyers to step up to the brand with the added plus of performance.

The test model on this drive was the IS 300, the most affordable IS, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine with 241 horsepower and 258 lb.–ft. of torque. In 2018, the entire lineup received a five horsepower increase.

It was matched to an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission with paddle shifters on the steering wheel and Eco, Normal, Snow, and Sport drive modes to customize the ride and handling further. The city/highway EPA estimated fuel economy for the test model was 22/32 mpg. It averaged 24 mpg on the test drive, mostly in Eco mode.

Available with all-wheel-drive (AWD), the test model stuck to its sporty intentions with rear-wheel-drive, improved for 2019 for better performance. Ramping up performance further, the test model included the F-Sport package ($3,195) with a unique bumper and spindle grill, 18-inch split five-spoke wheels, a sport suspension, and aluminum pedals.

As a Lexus, luxury features like NuLuxe trimmed seating, ten-way power front sport seats, a dual-zone automatic climate control system with touch-sensitive controls, a power moonroof, SmartAccess with push button start and adaptive cruise control come standard. The available blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, was also included on the test model for no charge. While a seven-inch touch screen is standard, the test model included the available 10.3-inch display for entertainment and climate control interplay, heated and cooled leather seats, and a leather steering wheel.

Pricing for the 2019 IS 300 starts at $39,585. The as-tested price came to $46,395.

Ford Edge ST

Combining functionality with versatility, the midsize SUV market shows no sign of slowing in popularity, so it behooves automakers to forward products that stand out. Ford added the first performance SUV to its lineup for 2019, the Edge ST. LTR recently tested the sportier Edge equipped with standard AWD.

At first glance, the Edge ST signals its performance nature with design cues like a wide mesh grille for optimal cooling, deep side skirts and dual-exhaust outlets. The test model also included the available 21-inch wheels with darkened rims that come with the Performance Brake Package ($2,695). Interior design cues included badging on the steering wheel, seat backs, and scuff plates.

Tuned by the Ford Performance team, the Edge ST gains a sport suspension, Sport Mode, a new quick-shifting eight-speed transmission, and a powerful V6 engine with 335 horsepower and 380 lb.–ft. of torque.

Where there’s power, there’s less fuel economy, however, even with the standard Auto Start-Stop technology to help save gas at idle that managed to fade the air conditioning at times. The EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy for the Edge ST is 19/26 mpg. It averaged 22.4 mpg on the test drive.

The Edge ST also maintains the standard for convenience expected of SUVs in this class by offering seating for five and a 60/40-split folding rear seat. It deploys easily with the push of a button to expose 73.4 cu. ft. of cargo space. For a modern touch, the Edge ST includes a Wi-Fi hotspot for Internet access via FordPass Connect, standard on all 2019 Edges.

Pricing for the 2019 Edge ST starts at $31,090. The as-tested price came to $52,325.

Toyota Dealership Gifts Rav4 to Latina Student

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Aug 112019

*Palm Beach State College student Marisol Reyes.*

Marisol Reyes, a student at Palm Beach State College who took time off from her studies to work and help support her family, was shopping for her first car. She visited multiple dealerships looking for a reliable car that would fit her budget. When Reyes was finally able to save enough for a pre-owned 2017 Toyota RAV4 from Palm Beach Toyota, she found herself at the right place at the right time.

To celebrate the purchase of the six millionth Toyota Certified Used Vehicle (TCUV), Toyota Motor North America presented Reyes with a check for the value of the RAV4. The automaker, along with Southeast Toyota Distributors, a subsidiary of locally owned automotive corporation JM Family Enterprises, and Palm Beach Toyota, also each made a $5,000 donation in her name to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, a nonpartisan organization committed to preventing and ending homelessness in the United States. In addition, Sirius XM provided one year of complimentary streaming service and CarFax donated a gas gift card valued at $1,000.

*Ron Cooney, manager of TCUV operations at Toyota presents Marisol Reyes with a check for the value of a pre-owned 2017 Rav4.*

“I come from a hardworking family and had to leave school to help pay for some of our everyday expenses and bills, but this incredible gift from Toyota will allow me to complete my bachelor’s degree sooner than expected,” said Reyes. “My family has owned several Toyotas in the past but my new RAV4 is already the best one yet!”

This major TCUV sales milestone comes more than 23 years after Toyota’s entrance into the Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) industry. TCUV now ranks as the highest volume CPO program in the industry. In an effort to continue its leadership, Toyota recently launched significant changes to the TCUV program, including new branding and an enhanced limited powertrain warranty. This warranty extends coverage to seven years following the TCUV purchase date or 100,000 total vehicle miles.

“Hitting the six millionth certified used vehicle milestone is a testament to not only the great warranty and coverage we offer, but, more importantly, to our customers who appreciate good value and reliability,” said Ron Cooney, manager of TCUV operations at Toyota. “We hope Toyota’s enhanced warranty coverage will continue to attract loyal customers like Marisol and her family, who rely on our vehicles for their livelihood.”

CUV Review: 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi, Reviews Comments Off

Jul 162019

Like the celestial phenomenon for which it’s named, the Mitsubishi Eclipse has appeared and disappeared over time. It emerged as a sport coupe in 1989 but left in 2012. Last year, however, it re-emerged to join the growing crossover utility vehicle (CUV) segment as the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. Latino Traffic Report recently test drove the 2019 Eclipse Cross SEL S-AWC and while some may miss the sport coupe, others will appreciate the added convenience and versatility of the new CUV.

While Mitsubishi would like the Cross to be known as a “Coupe SUV,” it really leans more toward a CUV in its design. It has a hint of sportiness on the outside with a sculpted form, wedge-shaped profile, and strong beltline. The front fascia reflects the Mitsubishi modern DNA, specifically on the grille, but it stands out at the back with a forward-raked rear window and angular rear gate that some might say looks akin to the Pontiac Aztek’s but much improved and without the polarizing effect. The test model also included the latest trend for two-tone exteriors with a black roof and Pearl White body at an added cost of $295.

A 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo engine with direct injection, 152 horsepower, and 184 lb.–ft. of torque powers all Eclipse Crosses, It’s matched to an eight-speed continuously variable automatic transmission with a Sport mode. All but the base model also come with Mitsubishi’s all-wheel-drive technology or Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC).

The EPA estimated fuel economy for the test model was 25 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. It averaged 19.1 mpg on the test drive.

With six trim levels to choose from, the test SEL model also included the Touring Package, making it a top-of-the-line model. As such, it came equipped with higher-end features and technology, like a blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert (also standard on the SE trim), adaptive cruise control, heated front seats, forward collision mitigation, and lane departure warning.

All Crosses come with a fold-flat rear seat that exposes 48.9 cubic feet of cargo room, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel with audio controls, a seven-inch touch screen, a rearview camera, and an Eco indicator in the LCD color multi-information display within the gauge cluster.

Standard features on the top-of-the-line test model included paddle shifters, leather seats with orange accent stitching, a multiview backup camera, and a head-up display that reflected driving information on a plastic flap above the dash. The Touring package ($2,500) added a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel and rear seats, and the Rockford Fosgate premium audio sound system. Interaction with the infotainment system included a touch pad on the center console that appeared to be inspired by Lexus, but setting presets for FM and XM satellite radio (standard at this level) was a little clunky.

Still, the Cross was fun to drive and efficient at its purposes of scooting around town, with passengers and/or cargo, and along curves if necessary.

Pricing for the 2019 Mitsubishi Cross starts at $24,690. The as-tested price came to $33,305.

Sí: The new styling is modern and on trend, plus the added convenience with a CUV is always appreciated

No: Fuel economy, especially with a turbo engine and on the highway, is subpar. Also, not the best “new car” smell.

Ford Recalls Certain F-150 Pickups

Recalls Comments Off

Jun 242019

Latino Traffic Report has learned that Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013 F-150 vehicles equipped with 5.0L or 6.2L gasoline engines, that previously had the powertrain control module (PCM) software reprogrammed under recall 19V-075. The software used to reprogram the PCM did not have the necessary updates to prevent the transmission from unexpectedly downshifting into first gear, regardless of vehicle speed. Unexpectedly downshifting into first gear may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin June 24, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 19S19. Vehicles that have not had 19S07 performed are not affected by this action and will receive updated software under the existing 19S07 program.

This action affects approximately 123,000 vehicles in North America, including approximately 107,850 in the United States and federalized territories and approximately 15,200 in Canada. Ford is not aware of any reports of accident or injury related to this issue.

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.

Fiat 500L vs. MINI Countryman

Fiat, MINI, Reviews Comments Off

Jun 122019

Known for fuel economy and affordability, compact cars do have one disadvantage, versatility. Their size can limit cargo room and comfortable seating for passengers. Fiat and MINI took this into consideration and decided to stretch their subcompacts, the 500 and Cooper, creating the MINI Cooper Countryman and Fiat 500L. Latino Traffic Report recently test drove both of these competitors, specifically the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 (plug-in hybrid) and the Fiat 500L Trekking. Here’s how they compared.

For starters, they may not seem to be competitors, one is a hybrid, the other is not, but they certainly appear to be and both were created to navigate an urban setting with ease. On these models, designers took the cartoonish looks of their smaller siblings, i.e. rounded headlamps, squat stances, and smiling grilles, and elongated them, stretching the headlamps to an elliptical shape and rooflines to wagon-like silhouettes.

The extra room from their extended designs naturally converted into more cargo space, specifically 47.9 cu.ft. with the rear seats folded flat, and seating for five on the Countryman. A split rear door added convenience for loading and unloading cargo, i.e. groceries.

Introduced in 2015 for the 2016 model year, the 500L offered 42 percent more interior space than the 500 and 68 cu.ft. of cargo room with the rear seat folded flat (it did slam down so watch those fingernails) as well as seating for five.

First introduced in 2010, the 2011 Countryman (left) was considered an upscale model. For 2019, MINI added a panoramic sunroof, leatherette upholstery, keyless entry, and a rearview camera with rear parking sensors as standard features.

Similarly, the 500L included a rear backup camera and parking sensor, available ambient lighting as well as a leather steering wheel. For 2019, a universal garage door opener is now standard on Fiat 500L Trekking (left) and Lounge models. What set it apart, however, was the available Beats premium audio system that was included on the test model.

Both came with AppleCar Play (the 500L also had Android Auto compatibility) to enable use of features like Google Maps via the seven-inch touchscreen on the 500L and 6.5-inch touchscreen on the Countryman. The test model Countryman also included heated front seats.

All 500Ls are powered by a 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine a 160-horsepower with 184 ft.–lb. of torque matched to a six-speed automatic transmission.

As a hybrid, the test model Countryman was powered by a three-cylinder twin turbo engine with 134 horsepower and an electric motor that added 87 more horses, a hybrid all-wheel-drive system with 221 horsepower and a lithium ion battery pack. These were matched to a six speed automatic transmission.

One would expect the 500L to be outmatched by the hybrid Countryman on fuel economy but not so. While the Countryman offered an electric range of twelve miles and an estimated electric miles per gallon (mpg) of 65, the estimated combined fuel economy using gasoline was 27 mpg. For the 500L, the estimated average fuel economy was 25 mpg. On the test drive, however, the Countryman did excel, averaging 30 mpg to the 500L’s average of 24 mpg. It was difficult, however, to track the electric range on the display (below).

Regarding safety features, neither included a blind spot monitor but the 500L did have a blind spot side view mirror on the driver’s side.

Pricing for the 2019 MINI Countryman and Fiat 500L starts at $26,900 and $21,064 respectively. The as-tested prices were $40,000 and $25,460, respectively.

Sí: The added cargo room and seating capacity on these models is a definite plus, though the 500L has the advantage, not just in cargo room but value.

No: It’s always a pleasure to drive without using gas but the Countryman’s electric range is fairly limited and at its price point, a blind spot monitor should be included. The 500L has a limited fuel economy despite its size.

Ford Awards $100,000 to Houston High School Seniors

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May 282019

Latino Traffic Report has learned that Ford Motor Company Fund and Houston area Ford dealers recently awarded $100,000 in Ford Driving Dreams scholarships to 50 senior high school students who participated in the “What Drives Your Dreams?” essay contest. This is the fourth year that Ford has helped Houston students pursue their academic dreams of going to college.

Ford Motor Company Fund, the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company, celebrated the scholarship recipients at an evening event at the Space Center Houston. Students and parents heard from former NASA rocket scientist, actor, producer, TV host and motivational speaker Shayla Rivera, who inspired students to pursue their academic dreams and aspire for excellence in all they do. Community leaders and Houston Ford dealers joined the celebration.

“At Ford Fund, we are proud to provide resources and scholarships to these talented students, and we are committed to continue to invest in the education of students of all ages,” said Joe Ávila, manager, community development, U.S. & Latin America, Ford Motor Company Fund. “Education is the cornerstone of strengthening communities and achieving a better quality of life for the next generation.”

Ford Driving Dreams was designed by Ford Motor Company Fund to help youth graduate on time and pursue higher education. The initiative has impacted more than 200,000 students across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Latin America since it was launched in 2012. It has delivered more than $10 million in educational resources. The scholarships are administered by the LULAC National Education Service Center, Inc. (LNESC). In addition to Ford Driving Dreams, Ford Fund educational programs in the U.S. include Ford Blue Oval Scholars, Ford Next Generation Learning, Ford College Community Challenge, and the Ford STEAM Lab. For more information, visit FordDrivingDreams.com. Find us at @FordDrivingDreams in Facebook and Instagram and follow the stories with #forddrivingdreams.

A Rogue of Many Colors

Features Comments Off

Apr 282019

With competition among sport utility vehicles (SUVs) neck and neck, it helps to have a winner, or two, in the lineup. Introduced in 2008, the Nissan Rogue, and its sibling, the Rogue Sport, have been Nissan’s top-selling nameplate in both calendar year 2017 and model year 2018. Latino Traffic Report (LTR) received four models to test drive in the past year, offering an extended experience in the Rogue and a chance for greater evaluation and appreciation.

While all test models were the top-of-the-line SL trim equipped with all-wheel-drive (AWD), each included different packages and interior appointments so that not one shared the same MSRP.

Tested colors included Magnetic Black Pearl, Palatial Ruby, Gun Metallic, and Monarch Orange (top). All included leather seating but the seats on the Rogue in Monarch Orange featured the Platinum Package with Premium Tan seats and distinctive quilting on the inserts as well as a heated steering wheel. The black and/or beige leather seating in the other models was perforated.

A 2.5-liter four-cylinder matched to the Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with Sport and Eco modes, powers all Rogues, and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with the Xtronic CVT and Eco mode, powers all Rogue Sports. The 2.5-liter can produce 170 horsepower and 175 lb.–ft. of torque and achieve an EPA estimated fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 32 mpg on the highway with AWD. The 2.0-liter offered 141 horses, 147 lb.–ft. of torque, and an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 24/30 mpg with AWD. During the test-drive, the 2.5 and 2.0 averaged a city/highway mpg of 17/28 and 25/31, respectively.

In an urban setting, the Rogue stood out for its convenience, versatility, and maneuverability. Convenience features included a standard back-up camera (around view on the SL), easy to fold seats, Nissan’s easy tire fill alert, and maximum cargo room of 70 cu. ft. on the Rogue and 53.3 cu. ft. on the Sport (61.1 cu. ft. on the base S model). Both offered seating for five but the Rogue Sport has a 2.3-inch shorter wheelbase and a 12.1-inch shorter overall length than Rogue for better maneuverability.

All Rogues come with satellite radio (sans the subscription), a CD player, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, cruise control, and a blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert. The SL trim level included more luxury features like heated front seats, Nissan Connect with navigation, and intelligent cruise control that can be programmed to maintain a set distance from the lead vehicle. Programming preset radio and XM channels, however, was a little difficult to do via the touchscreen, which began to lead to distracted driving.

For 2019 the standard features list expands to include Rear Automatic Braking and a Rear Sonar System on SV and SL trims, Rear Door Alert on all grade levels and ProPILOT Assist for semi-autonomous driving and 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels on the SL grade.

At the 2019 Chicago Auto Show, Nissan unveiled a refreshed version of the Rogue Sport for 2020, with new front fascia features, hood, Vmotion grille, and bumper. Improvements for 2019 include the available ProPILOT Assist, Nissan Safety Shield 360 that includes a blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert, an updated audio system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the availability of the Bose Audio System with nine speakers.

Pricing for the 2019 Rogue Sport and Rogue starts at $23,385 and $26,065, respectively. Stepping up to the SL trim will be costly. The as-tested prices ranged from $31,365—$36,915.

Muñoz Heads to Hyundai

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Apr 242019

Latino Traffic Report (LTR) has just learned that Hyundai Motor Company has appointed José Muñoz, formerly with Nissan, as global chief operating officer. In this capacity, Muñoz will oversee global operations strategies and their implementation. His focus will be to deliver profitable growth and to improve overall performance of Hyundai Motor based on his decades of automotive and technology experience.

“José Muñoz has an impressive track record and is proven to be a visionary and motivational leader who is adept at all aspects of our business,” said Wonhee Lee, president of Hyundai Motor Company. “His decades of automotive and technology experience make him well suited for this new role as we move the company to the next step. We are looking forward to Muñoz joining the team, and will lean on his leadership skills and vision to achieve long-term sustainable growth and evolve into a Smart Mobility Solutions Provider.”

Muñoz is no stranger to LTR. I first met him when he joined Nissan in 2013 as senior vice president of sales and marketing for the United States and Canada. At the end of his tenure he was chief performance officer for Nissan Motor Corporation and the chairman of Nissan China, but he had also recruited several Latinos to the executive suite, including an LTR favorite, Fred Diaz, currently president and CEO, of Mitsubishi Motors North America. Muñoz was recruited from Nissan Mexicana, where he spent many years managing operations in Mexico and growing Nissan’s market share to 25 percent.

“I am excited to join Hyundai Motor at this vital time in its history,” said Muñoz. “My capabilities around delivering steady profitable growth, managing the entire supply chain, and working together with our dealer partners to find win-win solutions match up well with the opportunity here. I am eager to bring best global practices from the automobile and technology industries to my new role as COO of Hyundai Motor Company and am honored to join this esteemed corporation.”

Muñoz has also been named president and CEO of both Hyundai Motor North America and Hyundai Motor America. He will be responsible for the entire American market, including Hyundai Motor North, Central and South America, as the Head of Hyundai Motor Americas Region. Muñoz is an important hire in further solidifying Hyundai’s overseas business reorganization that was announced last year with the creation of Hyundai Motor North America, among other regional headquarters around the world.

A native of Spain, Muñoz earned his Ph.D. in nuclear engineering from Polytechnic University of Madrid and has an MBA from the Instituto de Empresa (IE) Business School in Madrid.

From LTR to you, ¡Felicidades señor!

Recalls Made Simple

Used Car Diary Comments Off

Mar 302019

September 25

ODO 179421

When buying a used vehicle, there’s always a little anxiety about its past history. Recalls are a way of finding out what may have gone wrong from the get-go with the good news that a fix is available at no cost to the new owner, well, except for sacrificing a little time.

The Takata airbag recall has been felt industry wide, affecting 19 manufacturers and an estimated 34 million vehicles in the United States alone. Kudos to Toyota for its persistent search for me and my 2007 Yaris, a.k.a. the Bunny. I was sent several letters and notices and received multiple phone calls and when Toyota did connect with me, they made it easy as pie, contacting a local dealership and setting up the appointment. I’m lucky to have a dealership like Charles Maund Toyota that offered a free shuttle service to take me to and from work and a waiting room in the service center with free WiFi, coffee, and donuts (while they lasted) that allowed me to stay onsite while I waited for an assessment from service advisor Walter Ortiz.

*Charles Maund Toyota service advisor Walter Ortiz.*

I was there for an airbag recall, but Ortiz did his due diligence and found three other recalls—there was a fourth on the power window switch but the Bunny has manual crank handles so it didn’t apply. The total process took one day—I opted to take a shuttle back to the office so no loss of work time—and at the end left me with a safer vehicle than when I bought it.

Recalls are essential, common, and free so there’s no excuse for avoiding them. When a manufacturer does its due diligence to make things right, it’s a gift and we should all respond in kind. Putting a safer vehicle on the road is best for you and other drivers who could be effected by a faulty part on your vehicle. Thanks to Toyota and Charles Maund for making my Bunny a safer vehicle, eleven years after rolling off the assembly line.

Mazda Recalls Certain MX-5 Miatas

Recalls Comments Off

Mar 102019

Latino Traffic Report has learned that Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2016-2019 MX-5 (Miata) vehicles with automatic transmissions. According to Mazda: “In affected vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions, electrical noise in the range signal may be detected while driving in “D” range (including “Manual” mode). Due to inappropriate control logic of the clutch control software in the Transmission Control Module (TCM), this signal noise may cause the vehicle to unexpectedly downshift, causing an abrupt deceleration of the drive wheels.” If the vehicle abruptly downshifts, the driver may lose control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Approximately 14,370 vehicles are affected but there have been no reports of accidents or injuries so far, according to Mazda.

Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the TCM with corrected software, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 29, 2019. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, option 4. Mazda’s number for this recall is 3019A.

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.

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