Latino Traffic Report

Bautista dominates the opening round of World Superbike at Phillip Island

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Feb 272019

Latino Traffic Report has learned that Spanish racer, Álvaro Bautista, won three races last weekend at the opening round of the World Superbike competition. Bautista, 34, couldn’t have gotten off to a better start, dominating the opening round of the championship held at the Phillip Island circuit in Australia.
“It has been a perfect weekend and my Superbike debut couldn’t have been better,” said Bautista, who races with Aruba.it Racing. “We made a clean sweep of everything by winning race 1, the Superpole race, and race 2. If people had said to me before that I would have won three races, I wouldn’t have believed them, but we worked hard during the tests to prepare a fantastic bike.”
After his triumph in race 1, Bautista took two more wins, the first in the ten-lap Superpole Race and the second in race 2, when he crossed the finish line with a lead of twelve seconds.
With these results, Bautista has immediately taken the lead of the championship standings, with 62 points, a lead of 13 over his rival from Northern Ireland, Jonathan Rea.

“In this morning’s Superpole race I had a lot of fun fighting with Rea, I knew that he was very strong and that he was always pushing,” said Bautista. “The pace was incredible and I had to concentrate so hard, but in the end I got the better of him. I’m so happy with the results, today is a day I will never forget! A big thanks to the Aruba team, to Ducati and to my crew for making this all possible! Now we have to continue to work hard, we’re only at the beginning and I think it’s going to be a very top-level championship.”

Premium Sedan and Wagon Launch: 2019 Volvo S60 and V60

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Feb 162019

Redesigns can be tricky. Most reflect a gradual evolution but retooling an entire lineup from one generation to the next requires more courage. Volvo took that leap, starting with the 2016 XC90. Distinguished by its Thor’s Hammer headlamps, Volvo’s new DNA is now embedded throughout the lineup with the addition of its latest models, the 2019 S60 sedan and V60 wagon. Latino Traffic Report attended the launch of the redesigned versions of both in Santa Monica, CA. Like their remade siblings, the new sedan and wagon should excite fans and gain new ones.

The tested trim levels at the launch included the S60 T6 R-Design, S60 T8 Polestar, and V60 T6 Momentum—the entry-level T5 trim wasn’t driven.

Volvo has not only embraced a new look for its vehicles, but also new, greener technology, starting with turbo and supercharged four-cylinder twin engines matched to an eight-speed transmission with power and responsiveness that continue to amaze.

On the T6, the turbo and supercharged four-cylinder should produce 316 horsepower and 295 ft.–lb. of torque and achieve an EPA estimated fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The version developed for its new Polestar T8 twin engine plug-in hybrid cars (above), should produce 415 horsepower, 494 ft.–lb. of torque, and achieve 27 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and an electric range of 21 miles. At the launch, the average fuel economy hovered at 30 mpg.

Additionally, the T8 Polestar gasoline-electric hybrid keeps Volvo on track to become the first manufacturer to offer electrified models throughout the lineup in 2019. The new S60 is also the first Volvo to be sold without a diesel option.

While the S60’s exterior may follow in the footsteps of its siblings with subtle tweaks here and there, like on the headlamps, it does stand out as the first Volvo model built at the American manufacturing plant outside Charleston, South Carolina. It’s also the only sedan in the segment with a standard panoramic roof and available massage function. The T8 Polestar also includes the super posh Orrefors crystal shift knob (above).

*The Sensus infotainment system accented with driftwood inlays.*

Longer than the outgoing model, the third-generation S60 incorporates a few striking features from its siblings on the inside, like driftwood inlays, the Sensus infotainment system with a tablet-style touch screen, and leather seating. The T8 Polestar also features bright yellow seat belts and accent stitching to match its brake calipers. A less impressive feature also found on its siblings, the tilting and telescopic steering wheel that adjusts manually, is included on the S60.

Volvo’s commitment to offer electrified powertrains throughout its line-up by 2019 leads the manufacturer’s green commitment but the S60 also incorporates Volvo’s pledge to eliminate single-use plastics on its vehicles, also by 2019.

No discussion about a Volvo can exclude safety. Standard on all Volvos, the City Safety package includes technology that combines automatic braking and collision avoidance systems to detect pedestrians, cyclists and large animals—the only system to do so—to avoid an accident.

Innovative technology like the Blind Spot Information System is standard on the Polestar but remains optional on other trim levels.

One of the first manufacturers to offer a subscription service, Volvo will include the new S60 under its Care by Volvo monthly flat rate program with no down payment.

Pricing for the T5 FWD, T6 AWD and T8 Twin Engine Plug-In Hybrid starts at $39495, $41295 and $55,395 respectively.

V60 Reflects Volvo’s Ongoing Love for the Wagon

The 2019 V60 wagon was also on hand at the S60 launch. Like its sibling, the wagon will share the same platform and therefore much of the same features, including the turbo and supercharged powertrains, Thor’s Hammer headlamps, City Safety, and Sensus infotainment system. Unlike the S60, however, there will be a diesel option for the V60.

At the launch, Volvo brought the T6 Momentum version of the wagon that distinguished itself from the sedan with an interesting seventies retro-option for upholstery called city weave (right). While it could be polarizing, it definitely makes a statement, in a normally demure segment.

The V60 also offers more cargo capacity than the sedan with 50.9 cubic feet of space with the back seat folded flat.

There will be two trim levels for the wagon, the T5 FWD and T6 AWD in three grades, Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription.

Pricing for the 2019 V60 starts at $39,895.

Special Anniversaries and Editions Highlight the 2019 Chicago Auto Show

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Feb 162019

*Thirtieth anniversary Mazda Miata hardtop and convertible.*

Latino Traffic Report recently ventured to Chicago to attend the media reveal for the city’s annual auto show. Celebrating 111 years as the showcase for the auto industry in the Midwest and with nearly 1,000 cars, trucks and SUVs displayed on over one million square feet of showroom floor, the Chicago Auto Show (CAS) exposed several causes for celebration this year, starting with anniversaries for three iconic models, and peeks at what’s coming in 2020.

Any vehicle that manages to survive for 30 or more years deserves recognition so kudos to the Mazda Miata and Acura NSX, as well as the 35-year-old Chrysler minivan. Each marks these significant anniversaries with special editions.

At the Mazda reveal of the 2019 special edition Miata in Racing Orange (imagine mango pudding to appreciate the color), CEO Masahiro Moro welcomed several members from seven of the more than 100 Miata clubs based in the United States. Only 500 production vehicles were reserved for the U.S. market. Not surprisingly, the special edition sold out by the end of the day. it’s also not a surprising result. For those who would like to add their names to the waiting list, the special edition will also include orange accents on the Recaro seats, brake calipers, shift knob and dashboard, plus a Bose stereo and thirtieth anniversary badging.

Introduced as the NS-X Concept, the precursor to the production NSX, Acura chose the Chicago Auto Show for the global debut at the Drake Hotel on February 9, 1989. The NSX broke new ground when it first appeared and the second-generation 2019 version continues to break new ground in its segment. It’s the only supercar made in America and the only one utilizing electric motors matched to a three-motor Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive with a bespoke twin-turbocharged, mid-mounted V6 engine.

Pacifica Hybrid, and Dodge Grand Caravan. Each includes unique design cues, like an all-black interior with Cranberry Wine accent stitching (right), on the Pacifica, as well as upgraded content, like a memory driver’s seat, Mopar overhead DVD, and a dual-pane sunroof.

Despite coming in and out of favor, the minivan remains the ultimate family vehicle. Chrysler was the first to introduce it in 1984 with the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager (above). This year FCA celebrates 35 years of history with a special edition of the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica,

Nissan unveiled a special edition of the Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition package for adventurous families plus the 2020 Rogue Sport gets a refreshed look and new

technology. Priced at $995, the Rock Creek package includes unique darkened accents like the 18-inch wheels, mesh grille, roof rails, door handles and outside rearview mirrors, and front and rear fascia accents. It has unique “Rock Creek” badging on the front doors plus two-tone seating surfaces and badging, high contrast stitching on seats, door, console lid, and steering wheel. Every Rock Creek Edition also features a standard trailer tow hitch and harness and splash guards.

Available for sale in the spring of this year, the 2020 Rogue Sport has been refreshed inside and out with a new front fascia, hood, Vmotion grille, bumper and LED signature Daytime Running Lights. Enhanced technology includes ProPILOT Assist, Nissan Safety Shield 360 technologies, and an updated audio system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

For truck lovers, GMC, Ford and Chevrolet introduced heavy duty models for 2020, each with bragging rights, like max towing of 35,500 pounds on the Sierra and Silverado, plus Toyota showed a new lineup of 2020 TRD models including the Tacoma and Sequoia.

More 2020 models at the show included the all-new Land Rover Evoque, Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Italia, Kia Sportage, and Subaru Legacy.

Special kudos also goes to the CAS for setting aside a day for Latino car buyers on Feb. 15, hat featured performances by Latino artists including ballet folklórico and mariachi. Not many if any auto shows make such a special effort. ¡Muchas gracias!

Luxury SUV Review: Infiniti QX60

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Jan 132019

*The Infiniti QX60 parked at the History Murals of Kerr County, TX.*

Crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) rival minivans as the favored family car, especially for road trips. On a recent drive to Kerrville in the Texas Hill Country by Latino Traffic Report, the Infiniti QX60 CUV offered a cozy ride that fairly floated along Interstate 10 West. The Infiniti QX60 capitalizes on luxury and comfort for a premium ride.

*The QX60 at Stonehenge II in Ingram, TX.*

Refreshed in 2016, the QX60 bears a handsome sculpted exterior, distinguished by chevron or boomerang design cues on the grille and rear side windows. Its plush interior includes standard quilted leather seating with heated seats in the front, a welcome feature in the winter, even in Texas. When temperatures rise, cooled or ventilated front seats, included on the test model, as well as a heated steering wheel, maple wood accents, and the Around View Monitor that offers a bird’s eye view around the CUV for improved safety and parking ease, are also available.

Big changes in 2019 include making safety features like Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection and Predictive Forward Collision Warning standard on all grade levels.

With three rows of seating, the QX60 can seat up to seven. The split second and third rows also fold flat to create 75.8 cubic feet of cargo room. Adding convenience, the second row moves forward for easier access to the third row that returns upright automatically with the push of a button. A new innovation for 2018 included the standard Rear Door Alert that reminds an owner, with a series of distinctive honks, to check the back row before locking the vehicle.

One engine powers the QX60, a 3.5-liter V6 with 295 horsepower, 270 lb.–ft., of torque and matched to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. The QX60 got a new engine in 2017, which increased performance more than ten percent, while retaining one of the best fuel economy figures in its class, an EPA estimated fuel economy of 26 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway and 19 mpg in the city. On the test drive, the average fuel economy came to 18.3 mpg.

Infiniti simplifies the selection process by offering only two trim levels based on the QX60’s configuration, i.e. front-wheel or all-wheel drive (AWD). The test model came with the latter. For 2019, two new grade levels, Pure and Luxe, were also added, as well as additional packages.

AWD models also include the Drive Mode Selector that allows the driver to choose among Standard, Sport, Eco and Snow modes. While the Sport mode did add extra power for the hilly climb along the 65.5-mile drive to Kerrville from San Antonio, the power loss in Eco mode was quite dramatic.

*The QX60 and Louise Hays Park, Kerrville, TX.*

Standard entertainment features include Bluetooth, an AM/FM/CD stereo with an eight-inch touchscreen interface, and tri-zone air conditioning. Family essentials include eight cup holders, six bottle holders, and four USB ports.

While selecting a trim level may be simplified, selecting options, can be costly. Pricing for the 2019 Infiniti QX60 starts at $47,045, while the as-tested price came to $60,670.

Sí: The QX60 is quite plush, especially with the quilted seating and distinctive wood accents and adding the Blind Spot Monitor to all 2019 grades was an excellent move.

No: The loss of power in the Eco setting was substantial, making it practically unusable.

Subaru Recalls Certain Legacy and Outback Models

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Jan 012019

Latino Traffic Report has learned that Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles. Due to a software error, the low fuel warning light may not illuminate at the intended remaining fuel level and the miles-to-empty display may incorrectly indicate a positive number despite the tank being empty.

The inaccurate fuel display may cause a driver to unexpectedly run out of fuel and the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a crash. Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the combination meter software, free of charge. Subaru issued owners interim notifications on December 17, 2018. A second letter will be mailed when the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru’s number for this recall is WTW-82.

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.

Luxury Sedan Review: 2018 Volvo S90

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Dec 282018

Competing in the premium segment, Volvo offers what no other manufacturer can, Scandinavian design that combines luxury with function. Latino Traffic Report recently took the 2018 S90 T6 Inscription on a road trip from Austin to Burnet, Texas. The redesigned 2018 S90 full-size sedan showcased the manufacturer’s best assets—design, technology, and safety.

Curb appeal for Volvo’s flagship sedan begins with distinctive design cues, specifically, all new taillights and the t-shape in the headlamps referred to as “Thor’s Hammer.” The luxury sedan also comes with leather seating, a power sunroof, a thirteen-inch digital instrument panel, and chunky real wood accents. In this segment, roominess has its advantages, particularly in the back. Rear legroom in the S90 reaches 35.9 inches.

Innovative technology on the inside includes the tablet-shaped nine-inch touchscreen that interfaces with the Sensus infotainment and navigation systems. To select a function, the driver can slide a finger to the left, right, up, and down. A cleaning cloth to remove fingerprints is included.

Despite its size, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder super and turbocharged engine produces a whopping 316 horsepower and 295 lb.–ft. of torque; it doesn’t sound like a four-cylinder either. Also equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the S90 T6 Inscription test model had an EPA estimated fuel economy of 22 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. On the test-drive, it averaged 26.9 mpg.

Volvo has committed to zero fatalities or serious injuries occurring in one of its vehicles by 2020. To do this requires new benchmarks for safety technology. With the S90, Volvo focused on avoiding large animal collisions, a serious driving concern in the Texas Hill Country. Included on the S90, Volvo’s latest technology, the Large Animal Detection system, uses radar to spot animals and trigger automatic braking.

Standard semi-autonomous technology on the S90 includes Pilot Assist. Akin to adaptive cruise control, it allows the vehicle to accelerate, decelerate, and come to a complete stop to maintain a safe distance from the car in front at speeds of up to 80 miles per hour.

Pricing for the 2018 Volvo S90 starts at $47,945. The as-tested pricing for the S90 T6 Inscription came to $69,140.

Sí: Beautiful inside and out, the S90 leaves no doubt of its flagship status.

No: Despite its innovation and beauty there are a couple anomalies, like the telescopic steering wheel that requires manual rather than automatic function to adjust.

Latino Journalists Honor the Ten Best New Vehicles for 2019

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Dec 192018

*The 2019 Genesis G70 selected top deluxe car by the 2019 Hispanic Motor Press Foundation.*

Continuing a Los Angeles Auto Show tradition, the ninth annual Hispanic Motor Press Awards recently recognized the ten best new vehicles of 2019 for the Hispanic consumer at the show. Organized by the Hispanic Motor Press Foundation (HMPF), a non-profit 501 (c)(3) educational organization, the awards reflect its mission to help educate Latino about vehicles with the best value in the market through grassroots efforts and events. The jury panel for the 2019 awards, comprised of Latino automotive journalists,bloggers, and industry influencers, including Latino Traffic Report owner/editor Valerie Menard, was selected by the organization’s advisory board.

Genesis Motor America executive director, Erwin Raphael (far left) accepts the award for Best Deluxe Car given to the 2019 G70 by HMPF jury members (l to r) Juan Garcia, Gil Silva, and Ricardo Rodriguez-Long.

“Across the board, the Genesis brand stands for premium quality and reliability,” said Erwin Raphael, executive director, Genesis Motor America, who was on hand in Los Angeles to accept the award for Best Deluxe Car for the Geneses G70 from HMPF jury members.

According to data from Polk, Latinos will account for 25 percent of the growth in new-vehicle sales and are projected to spend $18 billion on new vehicles in 2019. The impact of Latinos continues to increase exponentially in the market, influencing auto companies to consider and incorporate the needs and wants of the largest minority group in the country.

*The 2019 Hyundai Kona was named Best Crossover Vehicle by the HMPF jury.*

“California is known for setting the trends in the automotive industry. With the largest Hispanic population in the United States, it is the place to find out what we like,” said Ricardo Rodriguez-Long, president of the HMPF.

*Hyundai Motor America COO Brian Smith (center right) accepts the award for Best Crossover Vehicle for the 2019 Kona from members of the HMPF jury.*

Twenty individuals and one jury director form the panel who evaluate the vehicles from their perspective keeping the Latino audience’s preferences foremost in their minds. An educated consumer is a satisfied consumer and the awards provide Latino consumers with outstanding choices based on the judging panels own experiences with the vehicles.

“We are proud and honored that the Hispanic Motor Press Awards are widely recognized by the automobile industry with multiple brands using the awards on their advertising and marketing campaigns,”adds Rodriguez-Long. “Our independence from specific media outlets and voluntary submissions by auto manufactures give our jury panel the ability to choose vehicles without any compromise or pressure, leveling the field for all participants.”

Here is the complete list of winners.
Sub-compact car:       KIA Rio5
Compact car:               VW Golf
Sedan car:                  Nissan Altima
Deluxe car:                  Genesis G70
Minivan:                       Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Crossover:                  Hyundai Kona
SUV:                            Lincoln Nautilus
Sports car:                  Ford Mustang
Adventure 4×4:           Jeep Wrangler
Pick-up Truck:             Ram 1500

Luxury Sedan Review: 2018 Lexus ES 350

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Dec 122018

When Lexus launched in 1989, its lineup included two models, the LS and ES sedans. Over the last 29 years, the ES has evolved to become a favorite of luxury car buyers, taking the number three spot of top-selling luxury cars in 2017, according to the New York Daily News. With the seventh generation coming in 2019, there’s still time to grab the 2018 model. Latino Traffic Report recently tested the 2018 ES 350. Here are some highlights.

Accessibility sets the ES 350 apart in its segment. While certain features are offered in pricey packages, Lexus makes particular features available as stand alone options on the ES, like the blind spot monitor ($500), One Touch Power Trunk (right) ($400), and Intuitive Parking Assist ($500) that were added to the test model.

Matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 268-horsepower and 248 lb.–ft. of torque powers every ES 350. For added convenience, it can run on regular-grade gas. The standard Drive Mode Select with Normal, Sport, and Eco modes also helps the ES achieve an EPA estimated fuel economy of 21 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. During the test-drive it earned an average of 21.8 mpg.

The standard Lexus Safety System includes semi-autonomous technology like High-speed Dynamic Cruise Control, a Pre-Collision and Pedestrian avoidance system, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, a.k.a. the ghost in the machine, and Intelligent High-Beam headlights that sense automatically when to turn on or off.

The subscription-based onboard emergency and information system, Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Enform Service Connect, are free for 2018 for the first ten years. The former provides access to Lexus Enform response centers 24/7/365 with a mobile connection, while the latter alerts the owner to specific factory-recommended maintenance while simultaneously alerting a preferred Lexus dealer.

Standard creature comforts include ten-way adjustable power front seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, NuLuxe perforated upholstery with Piano Black ornamentation, and a power tilt-and-slide moonroof.

The standard Lexus Display Audio system features an eight-inch screen and includes HD Radio, Bluetooth audio, a CD player, a vehicle information display, and complimentary traffic and weather data provided via HD Radio. The test model also included the Remote Touch Interface, part of the Navigation/Mark Levinson Package ($2,615) that included an intuitive mouse pad function in the center console to engage the infotainment system.

Additional options on the test model included the Ultra Luxury Package ($3,500) with wood interior trim, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic glass roof, among other features.

Pricing for the 2018 ES 350 starts at $39,975. The as-tested price came to $49,255.

Sí: Richly appointed, the ES 350 leaves little doubt that it belongs in the luxury sedan segment.

No: The redesign is just in time because this model, inside and out, did look a little long in the tooth.

SUV Review: 2018 Dodge Durango SRT

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Dec 042018

Most Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) accentuate the U in SUV to appeal to consumers. For the first time, Dodge accentuates the S with the Durango full-size SUV Street and Racing Technology (SRT) trim. Latino Traffic Report recently drove the 2018 Durango SRT during a weeklong test drive. While the appeal for this model is fairly specific, Dodge apparently believes that sport car enthusiasts with cargo and towing needs will give the Durango SRT a look-see. As an added incentive, all new customers will get to push the sporty SUV to its limits with a free full-day session at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving.

The three-row SUV still offers the versatility of other SUVs with seating for six, 84.5 cu. ft. of cargo room with both rows folded flat, and has a best-in-class towing capability of 8,700 pounds. But what distinguishes this SUV is what’s under the hood, namely a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with 475 horsepower and 470 lb.–ft. of torque that can accelerate from zero–60 miles per hour in 4.4 seconds

This kind of power, however, does have one downside, namely fuel economy. Matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission, the V8 has an EPA city/highway fuel economy of 13/19 miles per gallon (mpg). On the test drive it averaged 12.9 mpg. Still, the buyer for this vehicle probably won’t be surprised by this news.

On the outside, the Durango SRT stands out among its siblings with a newly designed hood with a functional cold-air duct and heat extractors to cool the engine.

Adding to that is the new SRT seven-mode drive system that includes Auto, Sport, Track, Snow, Tow, Valet, and ECO, giving the driver the ability to customize drive settings. ON the test drive along FM 2222 in west Austin, one of the curviest local roads, standard paddle shifters improved handling.

The Durango’s all-wheel drive system has been performance tuned and a new exhaust system offers the deep, high-performance exhaust note modeled after the Dodge Charger SRT.

On the plush side, the SRT is a top-of-the-line trim, which means it offers a bigger list of creature comforts to complement the power under the hood, including a hand-wrapped instrument panel with silver accent stitching, an SRT flat-bottom performance steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front and heated second-row captain’s chairs with embossed SRT logos.

The standard seven-inch thin-film-transistor screen in the instrument cluster has been redesigned and can be customized, the 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen returns with navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD radio, downloadable apps, and a five-year trial of SiriusXM Travel Link and Traffic with a one-year trial subscription to SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Rounding out this list is the standard BeatsAudio premium sound system featuring nine speakers, subwoofer and 506-watt amplifier.

The test model also included the Technology Group ($2,495) that added forward collision warning with crash mitigation, adaptive cruise control with stop, and a blind-spot monitor and rear cross path detection.

Built in Detroit, pricing for the 2018 Dodge Durango starts at $61,900. The as-tested price came to $73,360.

Si: The Durango adds excitement to a fairly staid segment.

No: Low fuel economy is pretty unacceptable in this day and age, plus safety features at this price point should be more available if not standard.

TAWA Weathers the Storm to Name Truck Rodeo Winners

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Nov 192018

Photo by Kevin McCauley/@capturingthemachine.

Truck of Texas-2019 Ram 1500. Photos by Valerie Menard.

Sixty-nine members of the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA), including Latino Traffic Report, recently set out on a dark and stormy morning for the Long Horn Ranch in Dripping Springs, TX to attend the twenty-fifth annual Texas Truck Rodeo. While the 57 vehicles set for off- and on-road test drives were up for the challenge, the event was eventually relocated to the Sonesta Hotel in Bee Caves, TX out of concern for the ranch and the damage that soggy off-road courses would inflict. After two days of on-road testing, the all-new 2019 Ram 1500, 2019 Maserati Levante GTS, and 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio were named the 2018 Truck, SUV, and CUV of Texas, respectively, as well as winners in 18 categories.

CUV of Texas: 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio.

CUV of Texas–2019 Maserati Levante GTS.

“It’s clear that TAWA journalists know their trucks, and they picked the new 2019 Ram as the clear winner,” said Fabian Campos, TAWA vice president and events chair. “The overwhelming feedback from our members was that the truck performed well during some of the most challenging weather conditions during the historic Hill Country floods.”

New products tend to excel at the Truck Rodeo but there were noticeable absences, including the all-new 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and 2019 Ford Ranger as well as the Ford F-150 that won the title of Truck of Texas last year. Both manufacturers offered budget concerns for opting out of the event.

Still, the completely redesigned Ram bears a radical transformation. Gone is the crosshair grille, the last vestige of its connection to the Dodge brand. Powered by a V6 or V8 engine, it also offers increased fuel efficiency on both with the new eTorque mild hybrid system, and new capability with a maximum towing of 12,750 lbs. and payload capacity of 2,300 lbs. On the inside, the test model featured the available 12-inch UConnect touch screen (left), a first in its class and winner of the Best Technology award at the rodeo.

“Being named the Texas Auto Writers Association’s Truck of Texas is the highest honor in the world’s largest pickup market,” said Reid Bigland, head of Ram brand and U.S. Sales, chairman, president and CEO, FCA Canada Inc. “Winning this award is a challenge, but the Ram 1500 is well suited to the hard-working needs of Texas truck buyers.”

2019 Volvo XC40/

Volvo brought the all-new 2019 Volvo XC40 to defend Volvo’s three-year reign of winning top honors at the rodeo. While the XC40 did win its category, Compact Luxury SUV, it was supplanted by the Maserati Levante GTS as SUV of Texas. The six-figure Levante offered exceptional exterior styling and performance with a 550 peak horsepower and 538 lb.–ft. of torque, but the interior, with its carbon fiber accents, was lackluster, particularly considering the price tag. Of all the competitors, only the Alfa Romeo successfully defended its title of CUV of Texas.

2019 Toyota Rav4.

Toyota also made an extra effort to bring the all-new 2019 RAV4, including the hybrid version, to the rodeo. With a sportier exterior and new technology like the camera in the rearview mirror, it also won its category, becoming the Compact SUV of Texas. For a full list of winners, go to https://www.texasautowriters.org/news.

“As a whole, FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) swept all the overall awards at this year’s competition, a very noteworthy accomplishment for their multi-brand lineup,” said Campos.

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