The Garage Blog

The Garage: Your daily dose of automotive news, reviews and motorsports coverage

  • About
  • Archives
  • Contact
    • A word about guest posts

Ken Block spotted filming Gymkhana 10 on the streets of Detroit

October 18, 2017 by Gary Grant Leave a Comment

 

I had the good fortune to interview Ken Block a couple of years ago and he talked about trying to keep the Gymkhana series new and exciting, so it is little surprise that the franchise has finally made its way to Motor City.

Youtube user Revin caught some footage of Block and the newly revamped Hoonicorn Mustang shredding pavement on the John C. Lodge freeway outside of the Joe Louis Arena and Cobo Hall.

It makes one wonder if Kenny from Da Block might be making an appearance at the 2018 Detroit auto show!

 

Related posts:

#HOONICORN! Ken Block busts out Monster World Rally Team Fiesta photos and video 2011 North American International Auto Show overview 2012 North American International Auto Show at a glance Hyundai makes dreams come true in Detroit with launch of Veloster Turbo

Nissan announces Qashqai for the Canadian market

January 9, 2017 by Gary Grant Leave a Comment

Way back in the middle 2000’s, while I was still a Nissan Service Manager, we began hearing reports that a small utility vehicle called the Qashqai, which was sold in other markets, would make its way to Canada to slot under the rugged Xterra model size wise.

That model never appeared and we received a model called the X-Trail instead. From what I heard, they were similar vehicles, but we never got to compare them side by side.

Fast forward to 2017 and Nissan Canada announced this morning that Qashqai is finally coming to this country. With the company’s popular Rogue model moving up in size in its most recent version, the Qashqai will slot in beneath that model.

 

Nissan press release

2017 Nissan Qashqai joins powerful Nissan SUV lineup – brings Intelligent Safety Shield technologies, fun-to-drive performance and affordability to young, urban compact sport utility buyers

  • 5-passenger Qashqai designed for conquering everyday urban adventures, includes long list of comfort, convenience and utility features
  • Dynamic exterior offers sleek front end design with Nissan signature design cues and available 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels
  • Available Nissan Intelligent Safety Shield technologies include Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection1, Intelligent Cruise Control2, Rear Cross Traffic Alert3 and Forward Emergency Braking1
  • “Right sized” Qashqai slots just under popular 2017 Rogue, Nissan’s #1 selling vehicle in Canada, and further expands Nissan’s extensive SUV lineup
  • On sale in spring 2017
  • The 2017 Nissan Qashqai stands as a stylish, nimble, fun-to-drive and affordable sub-compact SUV offering numerous advanced safety and security features

“The combination of the new Qashqai and the popular redesigned 2017 Rogue will appeal to a broad audience and offers a wide spectrum of features and price points for SUV buyers,” said Bert Brooks, senior manager, Product Planning, Nissan Canada Inc. “While we expect Rogue to continue to appeal to owners with young families, Qashqai fills a need for singles and couples who want more space and versatility than the average sedan for everyday urban use and social activities.”

The Qashqai has a 58mm (2.3-inch) shorter wheelbase and a 307mm (12.1-inch) shorter overall length than Rogue, helping make it more maneuverable in city traffic and an ideal size for tight city parking spaces. Other helpful city adventure features range from up to 1,730L (61.1 cubic feet) of cargo space (2nd row seat folded) and available innovative Divide-N-Hide® Cargo System to the Around View® Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD)4.

“From Qashqai to Rogue, Murano, Pathfinder and all the way up to the full-size eight-passenger Armada, Nissan has the perfect SUV for any buyer,” said Brooks. “Qashqai holds its own with all of its portfolio mates, just as expected of any vehicle that wears the Nissan badge.”

Sporty Exterior, Premium Looking Interior
The Qashqai exterior starts with an “emotional geometry” exterior design, presenting a strong contrast between dynamic movements of volume and geometric and sharp edges and details. The sleek, compact body projects powerful fender volume and a wheel-oriented stance, along with agile and robust lower body sides, giving Qashqai a powerful presence.

The front is highlighted by a dynamic, sporty front grille and sophisticated headlight design with LED signature Daytime Running Lights, halogen headlights with auto off function, and available fog lights. Also available are LED low-beam headlights with auto on/off function and High Beam Assist (HBA).

The Qashqai exterior also features a large rear opening and a wide rear body appearance – along with sleek boomerang-shaped taillights and rear spoiler. Other exterior details include body-colour front and rear bumpers, black wheel arches and roof molding, body-colour outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and heated outside mirrors. Also offered is a power sliding moonroof with sliding shade and roof rails. Qashqai has a coefficient of drag of 0.33.

The 2017 Qashqai is available in 10 available exterior colours – led by the bold Monarch Orange and Nitro Lime. Other colours are Mocha Almond, Magnetic Black, Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, Palatial Ruby, Pearl White, Glacier White and Caspian Blue

Inside, the 5-passenger Qashqai interior is designed to keep up with owners’ active lifestyles. It has the commanding ride height of a compact SUV combined with a driver-oriented cockpit that provides a sporty, fun-to-drive feel.

Qashqai incorporates Nissan’s “gliding wing” interior design, providing spatial symmetry with a sense of togetherness – combining a wide-open feeling with areas for personal space. Seating includes a standard 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, 4-way adjustable front passenger seat, 60/40 split fold-down rear seat with available rear seat center armrest, heated front seats and available rear seat heating/cooling center console vents. Also available are a 6-way power adjustable driver’s seat, leather-appointed seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and heated steering wheel. Leather-appointed seating is standard on the SL grade.

Behind the 2nd row seat is up to 648L (22.9 cu. ft.) of cargo space (up to 1,730L or 61.1 cu. ft. with the 2nd row seat folded down), accessible through the wide rear door. Like Rogue, the new Qashqai also offers the innovative Divide-N-Hide® Cargo System (SV and SL grades). Included as standard on all grades are a cargo area cover and six luggage hooks (four floor, two side).

The instrument panel features Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges and 5.0-inch center meter colour display with Advanced Driver Assist™ Display. The front center console includes an integral armrest and storage comparTMent, along with a 12-volt power outlet. Qashqai SV and SL grades include Nissan Intelligent KeyTM with Push Button Start.

Standard interior features include: 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary audio input jack, USB connection port for iPod® interface and other compatible devices, Siri® Eyes Free6, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, RearView Monitor, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®, Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant5 (compatible smartphone required) and RearView Monitor. Also available is SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately), dual-zone automatic air conditioning. The available Remote Engine Start (RES) system7 provides flexibility to start the Qashqai remotely using the keyless entry fob.

The 2017 Qashqai also has a number of available connected technology and smartphone integration features, including NissanConnectSM with Navigation, Mobile Apps and Services. It offers a 7.0-inch colour touch-screen display, Nissan Voice Recognition for navigation and audio, SiriusXM® Traffic and SiriusXM® Travel Link™ (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately). NissanConnect Services powered by SiriusXM® (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately) is available on Qashqai SL model. Also available is Around View® Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD)4.

Two interior colours are offered: Charcoal and Light Grey, along with available Gun Metal or Piano Black finishers.

“The Qashqai interior belies its affordable pricing, with use of premium materials and long list of available comfort and convenience items,” explained Brooks. “Though more compact than Rogue, the new Qashqai fully measures up in terms of features that make driving more enjoyable for both driver and passengers.”

2.0-litre Engine, 4-Wheel Independent Suspension, Advanced Safety Technology
The Qashqai offers balanced dynamic performance – combining a responsive, efficient 2.0-litre engine with nimble handling and cornering. Qashqai utilizes the same CMF (Common Module Family) platform as Rogue, and both vehicles are available in a choice of front-wheel drive or an available intuitive All-Wheel Drive system.

Every 2017 Qashqai comes equipped with a standard 2.0-litre DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder rated at 141 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 147 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm. The engine features Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG™) system, Twin CVTC (Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control) on both intake and exhaust, DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coated valve lifters, TCV (Tumble Control Valve) and an 11.2:1 compression ratio. The engine is matched with a 6-speed manual transmission or an available Xtronic transmission with standard Sport Mode Shifter and Eco Mode switch.

The nimble handling is the result of the 104.2-inch wheelbase and 4-wheel independent suspension – a front independent-strut suspension with stabilizer bar and twin-tube shock absorbers and multi-link independent rear suspension with twin-tube shock absorbers and stabilizer bar. Responsive steering is provided by an Electric Power-assisted Steering (EPS) with Sport mode. 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist are also standard.

A selection of wheels and tires are offered, depending on grade level. Qashqai S models are equipped with 16-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers and 215/65R16 all-season tires; Qashqai SV features 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 215/60R17 all-season tires; and Qashqai SL comes with 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 225/45R19 all-season tires. Every Qashqai also offers a standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with position monitoring and Nissan’s innovative Easy Fill Tire Alert.

Hill Start Assist (HSA) is also standard, along with a suite of confidence-inspiring dynamic technologies, with Active Trace Control, Active Engine Braking and Active Ride Control. 

“While many competitors in the compact SUV segment choose a rear torsion beam suspension, Qashqai offers an independent rear multi-link design to provide that extra sense of dynamic performance,” said Brooks.  “We believe that buyers coming into this segment, usually as first time SUV owners, still want to enjoy driving excitement and feel a connection to the road. The new Qashqai delivers.”

Qashqai also offers an extensive list of advanced Nissan Intelligent Safety Shield technologies. The list includes available radar-based Blind Spot Warning (BSW)8 and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) 3, Forward Emergency Braking (FEB)1, and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP)9. Also available are Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC)2 and Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection1.

In addition, the list of standard safety and security features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection; 3-point front and rear seatbelts, front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters and adjustable upper anchors; LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren); and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS).

Three Well-Equipped Qashqai Models
The 2017 Nissan Qashqai comes in three well-equipped models – S, SV and SL.

Along with the long list of standard features found on Qashqai S, the Qashqai SV adds 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 215/60R17 all-season tires, Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control, Power Moonroof, Heated leather steering wheel, Remote Engine Start system7, Nissan Intelligent KeyTM, cruise control, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately), two additional audio system speakers, leather-wrapped shift knob, Smart Auto on/off headlights, , Divide-N-Hide® Cargo System and dual illuminated vanity mirrors.

Qashqai SL models include leather-appointed front seats, 6-way power driver seat with power lumbar support, NissanConnect with Navigation and Mobile Apps, and 7.0-inch colour touch-screen display.

Qashqai SL models also include seatback pocket on driver’s seat, Around View® Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD)4, 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 225/45R19 all-season tires and silver finished roof racks.

Optional equipment package offered: SL Platinum Package.

The 2017 Nissan Qashqai is assembled in Kyushu, Japan.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

News/video source: Nissan Canada

Related posts:

Kia announces Stinger sports sedan in Detroit 2012 NAIAS Part I: The Bloggers Descend Upon Dearborn Pathfinder Concept shows new direction for Nissan Hyundai makes dreams come true in Detroit with launch of Veloster Turbo 2013 North American International Autoshow wrap-up

Kia announces Stinger sports sedan in Detroit

January 9, 2017 by Gary Grant Leave a Comment

At the 2014 North American International Auto Show, Kia wowed journalists with the super sexy looking Kia Stinger GT4 concept. A coupe that looked poised to take on the burgeoning rear wheel drive coupe segment.

For the first time in a decade, The Garage Blog isn’t at the Detroit show, but it looks like Kia has wowed the crowd again. This time, it is with a production model for 2018 called the Stinger. This time however, it is an equally sexy performance sedan which can be had with a twin turbo V-6 churning out 365 horsepower to either the rear or all four wheels.

The target for Stinger is said to be European performance sedans. Hello BMW, you have a Korean competitor!

All of this is awesome, but I can’t help but feel a bit sad that Kia has not chosen to give us the GT4 version.


Kia Press release

Powerful all-new Fastback Sport Sedan Redefines the Kia Brand 

  • Kia Motors follows through on the promise of a production model of the GT concept
  • Designed in Frankfurt, developed on the Nurburgring, industry-leading quality by Kia

DETROIT, January 8, 2017 – At an event typically dominated by introductions from American auto companies, Kia Motors America (KMA) today stole the spotlight with the world debut of the all-new 2018 Kia Stinger (hereafter Stinger) at the North American International Auto Show.  A five-passenger fastback sports sedan poised to redefine a segment currently populated by European automakers, the Stinger promises to be the highest-performance production vehicle in the company’s history and is backed by Kia Motors’ industry-leading quality and reliability.  Offered with multiple engine and drivetrain configurations and luxurious accommodations, the Stinger is planned to go on sale in the U.S. late this year.  Pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle’s launch date.

“Unlike any Kia that has come before it, the Stinger really is a dream car for us, and here today in Detroit, that dream is now a reality after years of commitment and hard work from a passionate group of designers, engineers and executives around the world,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning, Kia Motors America. “From its GT concept-car origins to the years of tuning and refining on the legendary Nurburgring circuit, no detail was too small to be obsessed over, and the result is simply stunning.”

Instantly recognizable as a direct evolution of the concept that preceded it, the all-new 2018 Kia Stinger design was overseen by Peter Schreyer, Kia Motors’ chief design officer, and his talented team of designers in Frankfurt.  Ride and handling development was looked after by Albert Biermann, head of Kia’s Vehicle Test and High Performance Development and his group of engineers in Korea and on the grueling Nurburgring racing circuit.

But what makes a true gran turismo?  This question was the foundation for a years-long journey that began when the GT concept was first unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.  Although every Kia design study has a purpose, the GT concept was something considered by many outside the company as little more than a dream for a brand known for producing mass-market transportation rooted in value.  But the GT ignited embers of passion that sparked a fire within the organization and over the next five years that fire would grow beyond fantasy and morph into reality.

Once the Stinger was green lighted, that gran turismo question became a mantra as development commenced.  Coming from Kia, the design had to be bold.  And it was.  But it also had to be nimble and fast while also luxurious and quiet.  It had to achieve the perfect balance of ride and handling and seat five comfortably with room for luggage. It had to be a lot of things, but most of all, it had to be an authentic gran turismo.  And it is.

Design

Turning a concept into a production car is no small task and Schreyer looked no further than Kia’s Frankfurt studio – the birthplace of the GT concept – to bring the Stinger to life.  “A true gran turismo, a car for spirited long-distance driving, is not about outright power, hard-edged dynamics and brutal styling, all at the expense of luxury, comfort and grace,” notes Gregory Guillaume, chief designer, Kia Motors Europe.  “The Stinger has nothing to do with being the first to arrive at the destination – this car is all about the journey.  It’s about passion.”

From its sleek front clip through its svelte flanks, and up to its powerful haunches, the Stinger exudes a muscular confidence.  Key to its road presence are the rear-wheel-drive proportions; a long hood and short front overhang, an extended wheelbase to deliver a spacious cabin, and a long rear overhang with strong shoulders.  The Stinger’s stance and visual balance are designed to lend the car an air of elegance and athleticism, rather than boy-racer aggression.

The wide front and rear track, along with the recessed contours along the doors, enhance the visual power of the Stinger’s shoulder line as well as its fastback silhouette.  Other purely functional elements of the exterior design – the front air curtains, wheel arch gills, smooth underbody, and integrated rear diffuser – aid its aerodynamic efficiency.  The rear valance houses four oval exhaust pipes. Kia’s signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille sits proudly between complex LED headlamps.

The low-slung cabin with its steeply raked windshield and backlight, sits toward the rear of vehicle, creating a fast silhouette.  Inside is a space dedicated to the thrill of driving while cossetting the occupants in luxury.  Available ultra-soft Nappa leather covers the deeply contoured seats and the driver’s seat has available air-cell bladders in the seatback and bolsters for optimal support and comfort.  A confident dashboard creates a strong horizontal plane for the driver to work.  The center console is intuitively split into two specific areas: the infotainment controls sit neatly below a large color touchscreen, while the climate and ventilation controls nestle beneath.   Front and center of the driver is a thick, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a single instrument binnacle with a combination of analog and digital instrumentation.  The large gauges are ringed in metal and accentuated with sweeping red needles.  A color TFT screen between the gauges relays performance data such as cornering G-forces, lap times and engine-oil temperature, along with ancillary information such as the trip computer, driver settings, navigation and diagnostics.  Aeronautically-inspired spoked circular vents are found front and rear and a tasteful satin chrome trim piece encircles the cabin.  The effect is a feeling of cocooned intimacy.  But the long wheelbase allows for generous front and rear leg room and the low seating position provides ample head room front and back.

Chassis

Joining the company from BMW in December, 2014,  Albert Biermann’s first look at the Stinger signaled to him a car that had to live up to its stunning design from behind the wheel.  “I think for the Kia brand, the Stinger is like a special event,” notes Biermann.  “Because nobody expects such a car, not just the way it looks but also the way it drives. It’s a whole different animal.”

Setting the manufacturing hard-points of the body-in-white would define Stinger and the engineers looked carefully across a landscape dotted with contenders.  At 114.4 inches, the Stinger’s wheelbase is longer than the Audi A4, Infiniti Q50, Lexus IS, BMW 4 Gran Coupe and even the Lexus GS and Mercedes CLS1.  It’s also longer overall (190.2 inches) and wider (73.6 inches) than the others in the segment, allowing for spacious accommodations.  The Stinger’s cargo area is also larger than many in its class, with enough space for full-size luggage or golf bags and a power liftgate with Smart Trunk functionality is available.

Riding on a chassis comprised of 55 percent advanced high-strength steel, the Stinger provides an ultra-stiff foundation for the ride-and-handling engineers to work with.  This rigidity also contributes to reduced NVH and a quiet cabin.  The MacPherson front and multi-link rear suspension has been tuned to provide optimal feedback to the driver.  A Kia first, ride-damping and vehicle handling traits may be modified by the driver through an electronically adjustable suspension known as Dynamic Stability Damping Control.  While always reacting predictably to the driver’s inputs, depending on road conditions and driving style, the Stinger can be tuned to respond with more agility through corners as the system softens the front shocks and firms up the rear.  Conversely, improved high-speed stability is achieved when the system stiffens the front shocks and softens the rear.  The system is accessed through five drive modes (another Kia first): Personal, Eco, Sport, Comfort and Smart.

Standard variable ratio Rack-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS) offers razor-sharp feedback through direct mounting of the electric motor on the steering rack, enhancing steering response and reducing unwanted vibration from transmitting through the column.  Steering boost is also adjustable through the five selectable drive modes.

Powertrain

If the chassis symbolizes the bones of a gran turismo, then surely the available powertrains represent its heart.  Oriented longitudinally and set rearward beneath the long, sculpted hood, a choice of two turbocharged engines are available.

While both engines are still under development, the standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder Theta II engine produces an estimated 255 horsepower at approximately 6,200 rpm.  Max torque of 260 lb.-ft. is available from 1,400 – 4,000 rpm.  Performance credentials are further enhanced through the available 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 Lambda II engine, which is anticipated to produce 365 horsepower at an estimated 6,000 rpm and offer max torque of 376 lb.-ft. from 1,300 – 4,500 rpm.  Kia is targeting 5.1 seconds to 62 mph and a top speed of 167 mph with the twin turbocharged V6.

The Stinger features a second-generation eight-speed rear-drive automatic transmission.  First offered in the K900 luxury sedan, the gearbox has been designed in-house and rewards drivers with crisp shifts and maximized fuel efficiency.  More typically found in aviation- and racing-engine applications, the transmission features Kia’s first use of a Centrifugal Pendulum Absorber (CPA) torque converter to help reduce torsional vibrations through the drivetrain.  Drivers can let the gearbox manage shifts on its own or may selectively run through the gears via paddle shifters mounted aft of the steering wheel.  As with the suspension and steering, up to five different shift patterns may be selected through the vehicle’s electronic drive-mode system.  Throttle mapping is also adjusted accordingly.

Recognizing that passionate drivers may not always reside in optimal climes, the Stinger is Kia’s first sedan available with rear- or all-wheel drive.  Rear-wheel biased for optimal control in the wet or dry, the AWD system features a new Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control system which monitors driver inputs and road conditions and automatically applies power and braking force to the appropriate wheels to maintain course in adverse conditions.  Rear-drive vehicles get the benefit of a mechanical limited slip differential to help evenly distribute power through the rear wheels.

A choice of alloy wheels and tires are also offered.  The 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder models ride on 225/45R-18 performance tires while the 3.3-liter V6 is shod with staggered ultra-high performance rubber; 225/40R-19 in front and 255/35R-19 at the rear. Vented Brembo®2 disc brakes are standard on the 3.3-liter twin turbo and feature quad-piston front calipers and dual-piston rear calipers.

Advanced Technology & Convenience

Offering luxurious amenities and unexpected features have become part of Kia’s DNA and the Stinger continues that tradition.  Multiple Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) seamlessly work together to enhance the driving experience.

In the United States, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration conservatively estimates that 100,000 police-reported crashes are the direct result of driver fatigue each year3.  This results in an estimated 1,550 deaths, and 71,000 injuries annually.  A Kia first is the new Driver Attention Alert (DAA)4 system to help combat distracted or drowsy driving.  The system monitors a number of inputs from the vehicle and the driver and will sound a warning chime and display a graphic in the instrument binnacle that it’s time to take a break from driving if it senses the driver’s attention level has been significantly reduced.

Forward Collision Assistance (FCA)3 with integrated Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)3 with pedestrian detection can detect a potential collision with another vehicle or pedestrian and help bring the car to a halt.  Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC)3 maintains a pre-set distance between the Stinger and the vehicle in front and can bring the car to a full stop in congested traffic.  Lane Keep Assist (LKA)3 actively monitors the vehicle’s intended lane and will alert the driver with an audible warning along with providing steering input to help maintain the vehicle’s position.  Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)3 scans the area behind the vehicle when backing from a parking space and will alert the driver with an audible warning if cross traffic is detected.

Connectivity, entertainment and vehicle information can be as important as a dynamic driving experience and the Stinger comes to market with the latest infotainment systems.  The height-adjustable color Head-Up Display (HUD)5 display enables the driver to see key driving information reflected on the windshield glass, including speed, turn-by-turn navigation, audio and cruise control settings and Blind Spot Detection information.  Resting within the center console is a wireless Smartphone charging pad and Bluetooth®6 hands-free operation is standard while many of the vehicle’s subsystems may be accessed through the steering-wheel-mounted controls.

Long-distance travel is a hallmark of the gran turismo ownership experience and there is a trio of high-performance audio systems designed to turn the interior into a dynamic concert hall as the miles blur by.  The base audio system for the 2.0-liter turbo features six-speakers and a seven-inch haptic touchscreen with the latest version of UVO, Kia’s award-winning telematics systems.  The standard system found in the 3.3-liter twin turbo ups the speaker count to nine and includes an external amplifier.  The available premium Harman/Kardon®7 audio system pumps out 720 watts through an external amplifier to provide crystal-clear music.  With 15 speakers and Kia’s first under-seat mounted subwoofers tucked beneath the driver and passenger seats, the system features Clari-Fi™8, a patented music restoration technology that rebuilds audio signals that are lost in the digital compression process.  This technology returns a high-fidelity listening experience to any compressed digital source.  The system also comes equipped with next-generation QuantumLogic™9 Surround Sound technology, which extracts signals from the original recording and redistributes them into an authentic, multidimensional soundstage for playback that is clear, refined and full of detail.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Related posts:

Hyundai makes dreams come true in Detroit with launch of Veloster Turbo Lexus stuns the crowd with LF-LC concept at Detroit Introducing, the 2013 Dodge Dart Porsche Reveals 2014 911 Targa The Garage Guy drives 2014 Cadillac ATS

Subaru Debuts 2015 WRX STI

January 15, 2014 by Tom Williams Leave a Comment

HIGH RES GOLD WHEEL OPTIONThe 2014 North American International Auto Show opened its doors to the media for day two of press days, and Subaru took the wraps off its range topping Impreza WRX STI. Built to be the baddest STI of all time, on paper the car seems to deliver. Yes, the requisite outrageous bodywork is present and accounted for, with a unique nose, ultra-wide fenders, LED lighting front and back, capped off with an absolute over the top rear wing. The look is convincing, yet not at all cheesy. Still, no one will confuse you for the stereotypical granola eating Impreza owner. For the full effect, make a run for your local Subie dealer to snatch up the limited edition Launch Edition, which gives you WR Blue paint and gold BBS wheels. Only 1,000 will be built for the US.

Of course, looks are nothing without performance to back it up. The WRX STI sports a new 2.5L turbocharged boxer four good for 305hp. With no apologies to posers, a six speed manual is the only transmission choice. As God intended. Other enhancements include firmer springs, a stiffer chassis, quicker steering, Active Torque Vectoring, Multi Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential and Brembo brakes. If some of that sounds like I am speaking a foreign language, my interpretation is the WRX STI will likely have incredible handling on tarmac, dirt, and gravel.

Inside, the STI features Alcantara seating with red and black leather bolsters, flat bottomed steering wheel and the obligatory STI badges. For the first time audiophiles can rejoice, as Subaru has put a premium Harmon Kardon audio system on the option sheet. Need more posh? Go for the WRX STI Limited, which adds full leather interior and a power moonroof. No pricing, performance, or when we expect to see the WRX STI in showrooms have been disclosed, but I think I speak for all of us when I say I cannot wait.

h_STI rear_2

Related posts:

Subaru Announces Impreza WRX STI Special Edition Wing It! Subaru Debuts WRX STI Four Door Acura Announces Pricing for 2013 RDX Dodge Prices out 2013 Dart Family Porsche Reveals 2014 911 Targa

Porsche Reveals 2014 911 Targa

January 13, 2014 by Tom Williams Leave a Comment

P14_0001_a5_rgbThe 2014 North American International Auto Show is officially underway in Detroit, and with it come plenty of exciting concept cars, and new cars making their official debut to the automotive media. Surely any new Porsche 911 variant will garner plenty of interest, but even more so from this journalist. See, I own a Porsche 911 1976 Targa, and I have been eagerly awaiting the latest iteration.

The first 911 Targa came out in 1967. Featuring a roll bar covered in stainless steel, the Targa had a removable, foldable top that can be easily stored under the hood, with a removable plastic rear window that you simply unzippered. After complaints from buyers, Porsche quickly ditched the removable rear window, replacing it with a distinctive wrap around glass rear window. That was mid-1968, and all Porsche 911 Targas were built that way until the mid 1990’s. In 1996, the Targa now featured fully fixed door pillars-a huge glass roof would slide back. It wasn’t the same.

All that changes with the 2014 Porsche 911 Targa. The stainless steel rollbar  look has made a triumphant return, and the overall silhouette is classic Targa. But this is a far more sophisticated animal than my Targa. Instead of undoing two latches, popping the roof panel off, folding it up, and storing it up front, the modern Targa driver presses a button. The rear roof section raises, the roof panel stores itself behind driver and passenger, rear roof sections returns to the normal, and voila, Targa top off.

Two Targa models will be offered, both with all-wheel drive. The Targa 4 is equipped with a 3.4L boxer six, rated at 350hp. Equipped with PDK and Chrono package, the Targa 4 can do 0-60mph in 4.6 seconds, with a top speed of 174mph. Too slow? Then move up to the Targa 4S, with a 4.0L six packing 400hp. Porsche claims 0-60mph in 4.2 seconds, topping out at 183mph. As for the price of admission, the Targa 4 starts at $101,600USD, while the Targa 4S starts at $116,200. Porsche expects deliveries this summer.

P14_0006_a5_rgb

Related posts:

Introducing, the 2013 Dodge Dart Acura Announces Pricing for 2013 RDX SRT Premiers 2013 Viper Got Torque? Mercedes Unveils SL65 AMG Dodge Prices out 2013 Dart Family

2013 North American International Autoshow wrap-up

January 19, 2013 by Gary Grant 1 Comment

Dario & George

While @thegarageblog on Twitter has been crazy active over the past week or so, things have been pretty quiet here in The Garage Blog. Why? Well, truth be told, I am so busy with my real job that I don’t have time to keep up with The Garage. For those of you who don’t know, my real job isn’t really a job at all. Instead, I am a freelancer with a daily and weekly gig over at the Toronto Star’s Wheels.ca, so when I’m done writing (I’m never really done) I really don’t have the energy to come here and write more.

So, my own coverage of the 2013 NAIAS is going to be limited to a shit load of pictures.

I will tell you that the absolute highlight of the show for me was turning a corner and seeing the Borg-Warner Trophy, in all its glory, standing out in the open, waiting for me to drool on it. Rather than just the usual gearhead drool, this was a chance for me to truly experience a bit of family history that I have never actually been close enough to embrace. Seeing my Grandfather’s Cousin’s name and face on the trophy was quite the moment for me. You can read more about my connection to George Robson here.

Now, head past the jump to see all sorts of stuff from the show.
[Read more…]

Related posts:

2012 NAIAS Part I: The Bloggers Descend Upon Dearborn 2012 North American International Auto Show at a glance 2012 NAIS Part II: The Show in Detroit Lexus stuns the crowd with LF-LC concept at Detroit Inside the Ford Brain Trust, The Garage in Detroit Part III

Volkswagen Reveals Passat Performance Concept

January 15, 2013 by Tom Williams Leave a Comment

Yes. it is January, and that means the 2013 North American International Auto Show is underway in Detroit. Of particular interest to this VW devotee was the Passat Performance Concept. The Garage has sampled the latest Passat, and is our pick for best mid-size sedan available in North America. And there is no denying the success of the new Passat ,which has shattered prior sales records in the US . Why? Well, VW wanted to appeal to a wider audience here, so we get the ‘American’ Passat, as opposed past generations of Passats, which was the European idea of what a mid-size car should be. Sure, the auto media heaped praise on past Passats, but the car met with limited appeal here in the States.

Volkswagen’s ambitious, and so far successful attempt to dramatically increase sales here has, inevitably, left many of the brand’s fiercely loyal buyers out in the cold. We have not been forgotten. As much as the new Jetta disappointed me, the Jetta GLI gave some assurance VW hadn’t completely lost the script.

Which leaves us with the Passat Performance Concept. Those of you thinking this signals a return to the halcyon days of W-8 Passats, think again. No, this sporty Passat sports a drivetrain much more in tune with today’s market, namely a 1.8L turbocharged, direct injected four cylinder rated at 250hp paired to a six-speed automatic. Other upgrades include dual exhaust, 19″ alloys, bi-xenon headlights, LED taillights, and carbon mirror caps. Inside, the concept features carbon accents and a two color leather interior. Finally, a lowered sport suspension and revised steering promise an improved driving experience.

Yes, the Passat Performance Concept is, of course, just that-a concept. Surely, VW is using the auto show to get a feel of how the car buying public would receive a more buttoned-down Passat. Also, it is a nod to the VW faithful. In my opinion, building this car is a no brainer. The modifications are slight, and VW already offers the same engine in foreign markets, so why not? Not to mention plenty of the Passat’s direct competition already offer turbocharged four cylinder engines (Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata, Ford Fusion). Stay tuned to see in concept becomes reality.

 

Related posts:

2012 VW Passat Pricing Set Review: 2012 Volkswagen Passat VW Previews New Passat VW Presents Alltrack Concept for New York Auto Show 2012 NAIAS Part I: The Bloggers Descend Upon Dearborn

Dodge Prices out 2013 Dart Family

April 16, 2012 by Tom Williams 1 Comment

The Garage was at Dodge’s stage for the global premier of the 2013 Dodge Dart at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. The Dart looked sporty, and sounded good on paper. Dodge has been lost at sea in the white-hot compact car market for ages, and without a strong showing it will be very difficult for the brand to prosper. With the Dart, Dodge boasts of its Alfa Romeo DNA built in with the passion of Dodge. The Dart will be available for sale in June, while the top-spec R/T will be in around October. As promised, the Dart will start at $15,995USD, and will be offered in five trim levels. Read on for pricing and features and commentary for the Dart family!

Dart SE: $15,995 The starting point for the Dart. Standard features include 10 airbags, LED taillamps, power windows, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio, as well as a 2.0L four rated at 160hp paired to a six-speed manual. Compare that to the base VW Jetta’s ancient 2.0L, good for only 115hp and down a gear. You might punish said Jetta all year from a stop, but come warmer weather, your ego will take a hit as you sweat it out without any AC.

Dart SXT: $17,995 The SXT adds AC, as well as 17″ alloys, power mirrors, power locks, keyless entry, six speaker audio, alarm, and folding rear seat. While the SE’s price will be seen in all Dart commercials, I see the SXT accounting for a huge majority of all Dart sales.

Dart Rallye: $18,995 For the car guy, this is where the Dart starts to get interesting. Dodge talks about a ‘customized look’ with distinctive front and rear fascias, foglamps and dual exhaust tips in addition to other sporty styling touches. Inside, the Rallye adds a leather steering wheel with audio controls and a trip computer. Unique to the Rallye is an available 1.4L MultiAir turbo engine. While there is no horsepower advantage from the base 2.0L, the smaller turbo engine provides more torque. I see the Rallye as an attractive alternative to buyers who find the Honda Civic Si and VW GTI four doors as out of their price range.

Limited: $19,995 Builds from the SXT and adds an 8.4″ Uconnect touchscreen, rear back-up camera, a unique 7″ configurable instrument cluster (so cool that SRT is using it for the new Viper) and a power driver’s seat. Positioned as the luxurious Dart, the Limited will appeal to buyers seeking premium features in a compact car. I see the Limited doing well with Gen Y and X buyers who demand current tech in their cars, as well as older buyers who may be downsizing from a larger car but still wanting premium features and creature comforts.

R/T: $22,495 The R/T won’t be joining the Dart line until October, but as the top-spec Dart, and positioned as the sportiest, it will offer its own 2.4L four rated at 184hp. The R/T takes all the standard kit on the Limited but goes back to the sporty styling bits of the Rallye, and adds 18″ alloys, sport suspension, leather interior, dual auto climate control, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel, a first in this class of car. You wouldn’t think it, but the hottest Dart presents the greatest conflict. The buyer is now edging closer to the GTI and Civic Si in terms of price, but falls short in terms of power, yet offers a level of standard equipment none of those cars can match. So, the R/T has a lower price, more premium features standard, but less power. And it is the latter feature that matters a heck of a lot with the demographic cross-shopping the three cars.

Related posts:

Introducing, the 2013 Dodge Dart SRT Premiers 2013 Viper Acura Announces Pricing for 2013 RDX VW Presents Alltrack Concept for New York Auto Show Got Torque? Mercedes Unveils SL65 AMG

Acura Announces Pricing for 2013 RDX

March 25, 2012 by Tom Williams Leave a Comment

The RDX, Acura’s smallest SUV doesn’t get talked about much here at The Garage. First introduced as a 2007 model and motivated by a turbocharged four, the RDX has always lived in the shadow of the larger MDX, the brand’s best-selling vehicle. It hardly helped that mainstream auto media largely ignored the RDX, which is priced just under more recognized cars like the Mercedes-Benz GLK or Infiniti EX.  Worse, many see the RDX’s size and assume it is just a plush Honda CR-V-it is not. In any case, Acura is introducing the second generation, 2013 RDX. Whether any past misconceptions of the last RDX can be dispelled remain to be seen.

The most notable change from the last generation RDX is the loss of the turbo four cylinder engine in favor of a 3.5L V-6 with an additional 33hp on tap, paired to an all-new six-speed automatic. An RDX with front-wheel drive will start at $34,320USD. The RDX will come standard with leather seats, power heated front seats, power moonroof, Pandora internet radio, and a rearview camera. All-wheel drive will cost an additional $1,400. The only option after that is the Technology Package, which adds AuraLink satellite communication, voice-recognition Navigation, a 60GB hard drive, dual-zone auto climate control, surround sound, power lift gate and bi-xenon HID headlights for $3,700 extra.

I can see Acura’s product planners thinking that a V-6 RDX was the way to go given its direct competition. I was present at the Acura stand at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit when the RDX was unveiled. There was no energy or enthusiasm from Acura for the RDX, and the audience of a few hundred auto journalists fed on that, and none of us cared either. It is that attitude that frustrates me about Acura today. In 1986 Honda took a huge gamble on creating a Japanese luxury brand named Acura during a time when no one associated Japanese cars with luxury. Honda created Acura, and three years later Toyota created Lexus, which destroyed Acura in sales.

I will reserve final judgement of the 2013 Acura RDX until I get the opportunity to drive one, but my fear is Acura continues to play it safe with cars no one feels any passion for. Stay tuned.


 

Related posts:

Introducing, the 2013 Dodge Dart Acura Adds TSX Sport Wagon for ’11 Toyota Announces 2012 Prius c Honda Releases Pricing for ’11 CR-Z 2012 NAIS Part II: The Show in Detroit

Toyota Announces 2012 Prius c

January 22, 2012 by Tom Williams 2 Comments

Given the success of the Toyota Prius, it’s a wonder it has taken Toyota this long to build on the brand equity of the Prius name and offer an expanded line of Prius vehicles. The company has finally taken the initiative, first with the larger Prius v (which The Garage will soon be reviewing), a plug-in hybrid Prius, and, announced at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, the Prius c. The ‘c’ here stands for city, and Toyota is seeking young urban dwellers as its most desired demographic.

The Prius c certainly has a more youthful look than its big brother. Compared to the standard Prius, the Prius c is 19″ shorter and weighs 542lbs less. Power comes from a 1.5L Atkinson cycle four cylinder with a total output of 99hp, paired to a continuously variable transmission. Toyota promises fuel economy of 53/46 MPG city/highway, with a combined rating of 50MPG. Toyota claims the Prius c is the most fuel efficient car you can buy without a plug.

The Prius c will be offered in four trim levels. Standard on all models will be auto climate control, Bluetooth and a USB port. Toyota has not provided solid pricing, but did say the Prius c would start under $19,000USD. I think the idea of a smaller, more youthful Prius can only serve to help Toyota, who still struggles to shake its reputation as being a conservative car company for Baby Boomers. With its smaller size and low price, the Prius c practically puts a nail into the coffin of the Honda Insight, a car largely panned by critics, and ignored by buyers. The Prius c is expected to hit the showroom floor in March 2012.

 

Related posts:

Toyota Adds PLUS Performance Package to Prius Introducing, the 2013 Dodge Dart Scion Debuts iQ Scion Annouces US Pricing for iQ Toyota Announces All-New Yaris Pricing
Next Page »

Advertisment

Find stuff

Recent Posts

  • Review: 2019 VW Jetta
  • 2019 Canadian Car & Utility of the Year announced in Toronto
  • AJAC announces Canadian car of the year award category winners
  • Pfaff to contest full IMSA WeatherTech season in 2019 in GTD including all endurance races
  • Category Finalists Announced for AJAC 2019 Canadian Car and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards

NEW Feature: World’s Fastest Car Review

World’s Fastest Car Review: Volvo Drive Me

May 29, 2014 By Gary Grant 1 Comment

World’s Fastest Car Review: Enviro Dad and the VW Touareg TDI

May 26, 2014 By Gary Grant Leave a Comment

World’s Fastest Car Review: 2014 Mazda5

May 8, 2014 By Gary Grant 1 Comment

Copyright © 2019 · Magazine Pro Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in