The Chevrolet Blazer is coming back for 2019

Last night I was able to attend the ultra exclusive reveal of the Chevrolet Blazer in Atlanta at The Fairmont.  The five-passenger crossover comes in three trim levels including the sportier and blacked-out RS and the more upscale Premier, both with optional 21-inch wheels instead of the standard 18s. Chevy tried to give each trim a distinct look with changes to the grilles and trim pieces.

The base engine is GM’s 193-hp, 188-lb-ft 2.5-liter inline-four, and buyers can opt for the 3.6-liter V-6 that generates 305 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. Both are mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and have stop-start technology. There are no plans to add a hybrid.
Also optional is all-wheel drive including a twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system on the RS and Premier trims. The Blazer can tow up to 4,500 pounds with the V-6. Opt for the Hitch View to accurately back the hitch up to the trailer.

I'm sure buyers will appreciate a padded knee area, round air vents, and an available panoramic dual-pane power sunroof. There is an automated heated steering wheel and automated heated/cooled front seats while the second row seats fold flat, slide 5.5 inches, and adjust. You can use the key fob to roll down the windows and let the heat out before getting in the vehicle. There is an electronic-locking glove box and a new cargo management system, standard on RS and Premier, with rails and cargo fences to keep gear in place. The liftgate is hands-free.

For connectivity there is an 8-inch touchscreen and 4G LTE Wi-Fi. It’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. Outlets are well positioned above the rubberized wireless charging mat. Inside there is nice contrast stitching and accents on the vents and shifter. The center console has a glittery black glossy finish in the Premium.

The 2019 Blazer goes on sale in early 2019

 

Read More

New 2019 Ford Edge Titanium Elite

 

Ford is adding a new ‘Titanium Elite’ appearance package to its new 2019 Edge line-up, offering supreme style with full body color sides, a more premium rear skid plate and unique 20-inch wheels.

  

The company’s marketing this move primarily at high-trim series buyers and women. According to Ford’s marketing data, they’ve sold over 1.3 million units of the Edge since its introduction in 2006. The Edge also just enjoyed its best sales year, with 142,603 vehicles sold in 2017. Out of those sales, people are turning more toward the higher trim levels when they decide to purchase. Ford has seen an 8 percent sales jump over the past four years of their Edge Titanium and Sport trims.

Women comprise nearly half of Edge sales (48 percent), compared to the brand average of 34 percent. That’s second only to the Escape, where women comprise 53 percent of sales. As the company moves to secure even bigger sales momentum, they’ve turned to this new appearance package as a way to entice buyers toward the premium end of the Edge lineup.

The 2019 Edge goes on sale late this summer; pricing is still pending. 

Read More

Nissan announces U.S. pricing for 2018 Versa Note

 

Nissan today announced U.S. pricing for the 2018 Nissan Versa Note hatchback, which is on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide. The starting MSRPs for all three Versa Note models – S, SV and SR – are unchanged from 2017 prices.

For 2018, the sporty Versa Note SR grade adds standard Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System and Easy Fill Tire Alert. The Versa Note SV grade adds the same new features as part of the SV Special Edition Package (previously named the SV Appearance Package). In addition, the SL grade is no longer offered and the S Plus grade is renamed the S grade.

The MSRPs for the 2018 Nissan Versa Note models begin at $15,480.

 

Read More

2017 All-Electric Chevrolet Bolt EV Now Available Nationwide

 

Chevrolet announced today that the Bolt EV, the first affordable long-range electric car, is now available by order or in stock at certified dealerships nationwide. Through Aug. 30, 2017, Chevrolet has sold 11,670 Bolt EVs this year and 12,249 since the start of sales in December 2016.

Current owners are praising the all-electric small crossover’s impressive range, affordability and roominess. “It’s been everything I had hoped!” said Brian Ro of Columbia, Maryland, who was among the first Bolt EV owners. “The CUV-styling fits my family of four just fine, and the EV performance and 200-plus mile range simply can’t be beat at this price point.”

Owner Maria Mraz of San Francisco, California, adds, “Everyone who rides in it just loves it. It’s very modern-feeling and so easy to drive … I’m very happy with my Bolt EV.”

The Bolt EV has won nearly 40 independent awards, making it the most-awarded electric vehicle of the year. Recently named a 2017 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) when equipped with available Driver Confidence II Package, the Bolt EV also earned the coveted titles of Motor Trend® 2017 Car of the Year, 2017 North American Car of the Year and Green Car of the Year®, awarded by Green Car Journal.

Starting at an MSRP of $37,495 before federal tax incentives of up to $7,500 depending upon individual tax situation, the 2017 Bolt EV offers an EPA-estimated 238 miles of range on a single charge. Standard features include electronic precision shift, Regen on Demand™ steering wheel paddle, 10.2-inch-diagonal color touchscreen and an 8-year/100,000-mile (whichever comes first) battery and propulsion system limited warranty. The top-trim Premier model adds leather-appointed seats, front and rear heated seats, Surround Vision, Rear Camera Mirror and more.

Find more information on the benefits of driving electric at www.ChevyEVlife.com. Learn more about the Bolt EV at www.chevrolet.com/bolt-ev.

Read More

Nissan announces U.S. pricing for 2018 Armada

 

For the 2018 model year, Armada adds standard NissanConnect^SM Services powered by SiriusXM®, an 8-inch multi-touch control display, HD Radio, SiriusXM® Travel Link with three years of trial access (SiriusXM® subscription required, sold separately), Enhanced Voice Recognition, Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant, and additional USB ports for all three grade levels – SV, SL and Platinum.

And, for the first time on any Nissan vehicle, Armada Platinum models include a standard Intelligent Rear View Mirror (I-RVM), which uses a high-resolution camera mounted on the rear of the vehicle to project a clear image onto an LCD monitor built into the standard rearview mirror. A switch located at the bottom of the mirror allows the driver to access either the traditional rearview mirror system or the new Intelligent Rear View Mirror.
The 2018 Armada is the first to offer I-RVM in the full-size non-luxury SUV segment. The benefits of the I-RVM are many, including "removing" interior obstacles such as cargo and rear headrests, improving visibility in low-light conditions, reducing glare and providing an expanded field of view.

 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices⁵ (MSRP) for the 2018 Nissan Armada:

Armada SV 2WD	$45,600 USD
Armada SL 2WD	$50,350 USD
Armada Platinum 2WD	$58,690 USD
Armada SV 4WD	$48,500 USD
Armada SL 4WD	$53,250 USD
Armada Platinum 4WD	$61,590 USD

Destination and Handling $1,195.
The 2018 Nissan Armada is available in SV, SL and Platinum models in 2WD and 4WD drive configurations – each equipped with an advanced 390-horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 engine, 7-speed automatic transmission and a comfortable full-feature cabin with seating for eight.

In addition to the standard features on the Armada SV, the Armada SL adds Remote Engine Start System, power 60/40 3rd row seat, Intelligent Around View® Monitor (I-AVM), power liftgate, 20-inch wheels and tires and more. The top-of-the-line Armada Platinum includes power-sliding moonroof, front climate controlled seats, Family Entertainment System, Nissan Safety Shield technologies and new Intelligent Rear View Mirror (I-RVM).
Four option packages are offered, including the Driver's Package, Premium Package, Pearl White Paint and 2nd row Captain's Chairs Package.

 
For more information on the 2018 Armada and the complete Nissan vehicle lineup, please visit NissanNews.com.

Read More

The First-ever Toyota C-HR

Stylish, athletic and filled with technology like Toyota Safety Sense P™ (TSS-P), the all-new 2018 Toyota C-HR – or, Coupe High-Rider – represents a leap forward in design, manufacturing and engineering for Toyota. When it arrives at dealerships this April, the C-HR will serve as a springboard of excitement and wanderlust for its trendsetting drivers.
First shown in concept form at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, the 2018 C-HR maintains the concept’s avant-garde physique; modern, comfortable cabin; and bold, outgoing character. The C-HR is available in two grades, XLE and XLE Premium, each equipped with a long list of standard features that includes 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, bucket seating, and 7-inch audio display.
But, the C-HR doesn’t only look great – it’s got the sportiness to impress thanks to the efforts of Deputy Chief Engineer, Hiro Koba, who is a diehard racer with speed coursing through his veins. Koba-san and team made sure the C-HR exhilarates its driver anytime, anywhere, including around the famed Nürburgring circuit where vehicle development was chiefly executed. Like its uncanny looks, the C-HR’s blend of comfort, control, consistency, and responsiveness is extraordinarily impressive for the competitive paradigm it aims to shift.
Polished Diamond Style
Toyota’s team of global designers expounded on one theme: “Distinctive Diamond.” The iconic gemstone evokes universal notions of luxury, attractiveness, sophistication, and strength. Designers translated these traits into a physical form that’s collectively matchless, sexy, muscular, and edgy. From the get-go, they strived to sculpt an urban-dwelling crossover that would effortlessly navigate tight city streets and stand out, with an agile, dynamic expressiveness.
At the C-HR’s nose, two slim projector-beam halogen headlights with LED daytime running lights (DRL) and auto-on/off activation wrap deep into its toned shoulders – nearly all the way into the front quarter panels. Because of this, the vehicle looks wider than it is, and possesses an assertive fascia that’s uncommon in the segment. In fact, its dimensions – width (70.7 in.), height (61.6 in), length (171.2 in.), and wheelbase (103.9 in.) – can best be described as compact and neat. Its front and rear tracks match that of Toyota’s diehard sports car, 86, at 60.6 inches. 
Deep, curvy character lines emerge from a prominent Toyota badge that’s flanked by the headlamps, and lead into the narrower core body. They run below the slender windows, and continue above the rear wheel where they marry to a high beltline and distinctive C-Pillar with hidden-type design door handle.
Look closely at the silhouette to see the clear resemblance of a diamond set on its side. Powerful arches housing the “vortex-styled” 18-inch tall by 7-inch wide aluminum wheels and 225/50R-18 all-season tires accentuate the C-HR’s sturdy posture.
The rear is a cohesive balance of its elaborate lines and 3D shapes. The tail lamps protrude outward, and the hatchback – outfitted with a lip spoiler and functional color-matched cantilevered wing – tapers neatly inboard, adding to the C-HR’s futuristic look, and, once more, imposing stance.
Toyota’s aerodynamicists pulled no punches when honing the C-HR’s 0.34 coefficient of drag. Canards on the rear quarter panels, front and rear spats, a streamlined rear lower bumper, and stabilizing fins integrated into the taillights all manage critical airflow in and around the body. Underneath, a bevy of rigid covers – on the engine, floor, fuel tank, and aft of the rear wheels – cull turbulence, and in doing so, help enhance vehicle control and fuel efficiency. At the rear, its aerodynamic details continue: The lower arms of the double-wishbone suspension have a streamline edge.
The XLE Premium model expands on the XLE’s exterior traits with color-matched front and rear passenger door handles with touch-sensor lock and unlock capability, integrated front fog lights, plus, power side mirrors with turn signals, blind spot warning indicators, puddle lights with “Toyota C-HR” projection, and auto-folding functionality.
As one can imagine, the exterior color options are aplenty for C-HR. Available colors include Ruby Flare Pearl, Blizzard Pearl, Magnetic Gray Metallic, and Black Sand Pearl. Available all new-for-Toyota colors include Silver Knockout Metallic and Blue Eclipse Metallic.
For a bigger dose of individuality, the C-HR can be outfitted in R-Code, a special paintjob that pairs body color with a white-painted roof, side mirrors, and A-pillar for a truly custom look. Available pairings include Blue Eclipse Metallic R-Code, Ruby Flare Pearl R-Code, and Radiant Green Mica R-Code. Radiant Green Mica can only be had in R-Code configuration.
Cutting-Edge Cabin
Open its doors to reveal a modern, spacious, and uncluttered interior having a keen placement of diamond accents and a driver-centric “MeZONE” orientation. Along with the soft-touch materials covering surfaces throughout, the diamond pattern influences the designs of the dual-zone climate controls, speaker surrounds, and black headliner above the front passengers. Passengers can easily converse thanks in large part to the acoustic noise-reducing front windshield.
Together with slim A-pillars, the slightly angled dashboard and amenity controls allow for the driver to have a clear view of the road ahead and intuitive access to instrumentation – a nod to the C-HR’s sports car influence. The 7-inch audio display is positioned centrally atop the dash, rather than in it, so as to help reduce a driver’s eye movements. An informative twin-ring gauge cluster resides behind the leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel. The tilt/telescoping wheel, with its slender profile, small diameter, and compact center pad, is reminiscent of a sports car’s easy-to-grip helm. The satin-plated shift knob exudes a high-quality feeling, and once in-hand, has a solid shift movement. A bright 4.2-inch color Multi-Information Display (MID) sits between the twin-ring cluster and shows odometer, SPORT and ECO modes, outside temperature, fuel economy and trip information, fuel economy history, G-force monitor, and much more.
Key XLE standard features include all-black appointments; premium leather-wrapped steering wheel; auto-dimming rearview mirror with backup camera; electric parking brake; dual-zone climate control; and Sport Fabric-trimmed front bucket seats with sport bolsters and six-way adjustability. XLE Premium adds Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert; heated front seats; eight-way adjustable power lumbar driver’s seat; and Smart Key System with Push Button Start. Both models are equipped with a six-speaker AM/FM/HD Radio™, Aha™ app, USB 2.0 port with iPod connectivity and control, AUX audio jack, Bluetooth® wireless connectivity, and Voice Recognition with voice training.
The C-HR receives two Toyota-first features: Driver Distraction Secure Audio (DDSA) and Brake Hold Function. DDSA prevents certain multimedia menus from being selected while the vehicle is in motion by complying with NHTSA’s Driver Distraction Guidelines. Brake Hold Function is a convenience feature that maintains braking force at all four wheels to keep the vehicle stationary when at a full stop. As a result, the vehicle will remain still even if the driver reduces the pressure on the brake pedal. Once the driver depresses the accelerator, brake pressure will release, and the vehicle will move forward.
Bolstered bucket seats help to keep passengers snug and comfortable. All passengers will appreciate the generous amount of small item storage space (sculpted in-door pockets) and cup holders (two front cup holders; two front, two rear bottle holders). Designers used scalloped seatbacks, foot well cubbies carved below the front seats, and a chamfered headliner to create a spacious backseat environment. Sound insulating materials placed on the carpet, headliner, A-pillars, and door trim help to keep all unwanted noises out and the good chats in.
For extra cargo carrying versatility, the rear 60/40 seat can split and fold flat, and, when in an upright position, can easily accommodate child seats with its LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system. Seatback lock releases are positioned at shoulder height, making it possible to fold seats without bending over. The rear seats are designed so that seatbelts do not interfere when folding the seats. As an added bonus in the cargo hold, a hidden storage compartment located in the sidewall stores small items, as do compartments below the deck board. Everything in the trunk is concealed by a standard cargo cover.
Surprise Athlete
The Toyota C-HR scores high on style points, but it is also a hit when it comes to thrilling fun and impressive ride comfort. Deputy Chief Engineer Koba took full advantage of the C-HR’s adaptable Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) C-Platform to craft an engaging character that goes well beyond just a cool appearance. The C-HR’s core driving personality incorporates the ingredients of a well-sorted sports car – one that seamlessly melds cunning responsiveness, linearity, consistency, and comfort.
Years were spent developing on-road nimbleness and ride quality on some of the world’s most curvaceous and pitted roads, including the Nürburgring Nordschleife, an iconic racing circuit set in Germany’s Eifel mountains. Doing so took a mix of innovation and trial and error, and as a result, the TNGA C-platform – with an inherent low center-of-gravity, high strength, and low weight – benefitted from extra rigidity through added spot welding, gussets, braces, and adhesives in and on key connection structures.
The newly developed MacPherson strut front suspension with SACHS dampers has angled strut bearings and a large diameter stabilizer bar to help the C-HR’s front end respond quickly and precisely at initial corner turn-in. And at the rear, an all-new double-wishbone suspension utilizes a 26-mm stabilizer bar and SACHS dampers with urethane upper supports – a first for Toyota. The material, together with an aluminum-cast upper support housing, aids in the dampers’ absorption efficiency, and therefore, greatly benefit passenger comfort, cabin quietness, and vehicle agility.
Feeling connected to the road is characteristic of a sporty drive, and the C-HR delivers with its column-type Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system. As is the case with other EPS systems, a tilt of the steering wheel will return light feedback at low speeds, and at higher speeds, drivers will notice stronger feedback for increased confidence while behind the wheel. The C-HR’s steering system’s feel, however, relies on a highly rigid rack-and-pinion steering gearbox that is installed directly to the front suspension. Braking is handled brilliantly by a pairing of 11.7-inch front ventilated discs with 11.1-inch rear solid discs.
For all of its sportiness, the C-HR’s ride quality is well-sorted, civilized, and highly capable in absorbing the nastiest of untidy pavement. In the end, the C-HR happily finds itself at home on congested boulevards as it does on serpentine roads.
Compact Punch
The C-HR’s engine, a punchy 2.0-liter four-cylinder dual-overhead cam producing 144 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 139 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm, sends all power to the front wheels via the Continuously Variable Transmission with intelligence and Shift mode (CVTi-S). The engine employs many of Toyota’s latest generation of technologies, including Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and Valvematic, both of which have received extensive optimization to enhance fuel economy and smooth operation. Valvematic offers a broader range of continuously variable valve timing (lift and phasing) to provide optimal intake valve (not on exhaust side) operation relative to engine demands. Furthermore, to reduce exhaust emissions, the catalyst is warmed earlier during the engine’s ignition cycle. Both models are expected to receive EPA-estimates of 27 city/31 highway/29 combined miles-per-gallon.
The all-new the CVTi-S received much attention by engineers and utilizes redesigned pulleys to enhance acceleration and fuel economy; a new belt structure to reduce cabin noise; and a coaxial two-port oil pump system that allows for continuous oil pressure modifications in various driving conditions. A Preload Differential helps to distribute torque between the left and right wheels during low-speed operation to make for easier, composed driving.
Of course, drivers and passengers will welcome the powertrain’s well-sorted nature, but they’ll love Sport mode and the simulated 7-speed Sequential Shiftmatic. Engaging Sport mode via the MID increases the responsiveness of the throttle, quickens the CVT’s automatic artificial “step-up” shifts, and maintains high engine speed to enhance acceleration. The EPS’ feedback is weightier for a more confidence-inspiring feel. Pushing the gearshift over to the left while in Drive engages Sequential Shiftmatic, and lets drivers shift simulated gears at their convenience.
Stateof-the-Art Safety
The C-HR comes equipped with standard Toyota Safety Sense P™ (TSS-P). It is anticipated to be the only vehicle in its segment with standard Pre-Collision System with Active Braking. It is also expected to be the only vehicle in the compact crossover market with Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control as standard equipment.
TSS-P is a multi-feature advanced active safety suite that bundles Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection function (PCS w/PD) featuring forward collision warning and Automatic Emergency Braking; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist function (LDA w/SA); Automatic High Beams (AHB); and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC).
The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD) uses a camera and radar to detect a vehicle and/or pedestrian ahead of the C-HR in certain conditions. When the system determines there is a possibility of collision, it prompts the driver to brake with an audio and visual alert. If the driver notices the hazard and brakes, the system may provide additional braking force using Brake Assist. If the driver fails to brake in a set time and the system determines that the risk of collision with a vehicle and/or pedestrian is extremely high, the system may automatically apply the brakes, reducing speed in order to help the driver avoid the collision or reducing the impact.
Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist function uses an in-vehicle camera designed to detect visible white and yellow lane markers in front of the vehicle and the vehicle’s position on the road. If the system determines that the vehicle is starting to unintentionally deviate from its lane, the system alerts the driver with an audio and visual alert. When the alerts occur, the driver must check the surrounding road situation and carefully operate the steering wheel to move the vehicle back to the center part of their lane.
In addition to the alert function of LDA, the C-HR will feature a Steering Assist function. If the system determines that the vehicle is on a path to unintentionally depart from its lane, the system may provide small corrective steering inputs to the steering wheel for a short period of time to help the driver keep the vehicle in its lane.
On highways, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) functions similar to conventional “constant speed” cruise control in that it helps vehicles travel at a consistent speed set by the driver, but this system adds a vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode designed to assist the driver by adjusting vehicle speed to help maintain a pre-set distance to a preceding vehicle when the preceding vehicle is traveling at a lower speed. Once a vehicle speed is set by the driver, Full-Speed Range DRCC uses a front-grill mounted millimeter-wave radar and an in-vehicle camera designed to detect a preceding vehicle and help determine its distance.
If the vehicle ahead is detected traveling at a speed slower than your set speed or within your distance range setting, the system is designed to automatically decelerate the vehicle without having to cancel the cruise control. When a greater reduction in vehicle speed is necessary, the system may apply the brakes and operate the vehicle brake lights. The system will then respond to changes in the speed of the vehicle ahead in order to help maintain the vehicle-to-vehicle distance set by the driver. When there is no longer a preceding vehicle driving slower than the vehicle’s set speed, the system accelerates until the set speed is reached and returns to the pre-set speed cruising. Full-Speed Range DRCC is designed to function at approximately 0 to 110 mph, and may enable low speed following, speed matching, stopping, and acceleration/deceleration to a preceding vehicle.
Automatic High Beams (AHB) helps enhance forward visibility during nighttime driving. It uses a camera to detect the headlights of oncoming vehicles and the tail lights of vehicles ahead, and then automatically switches between high beams and low beams so as not to interfere with other drivers.
Complementing TSS-P are 10 standard airbags, standard Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) and rear backup camera, as well as available Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which are only available on the XLE Premium model.
Priced Right
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2018 C-HR will range from $22,500 for XLE to $24,350 XLE Premium.
The MSRP for the C-HR does not include the delivery, processing, and handling (DPH) fee of $960. The DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

 

MODEL #	GRADE	ENGINE (CODE)	TRANSMISSION (CODE)	MSRP	ON-SALE
2404	XLE	2.0-liter (3ZR-FAE)	CVTi-S (K114)	$22,500	04/2017
2406	XLE Premium	2.0-liter (3ZR-FAE)	CVTi-S (K114)	$24,350	04/2017
MSRP does not include the delivery, processing, and handling (DPH) fee of $960

 

Read More

2017 Lexus IS 350

 

I absolutely adored cruising around the city in the 2017 Lexus IS 350 the ride is smooth and the handling is superb. The 2017 Lexus IS 350 is available with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. Rear-wheel-drive models get an eight-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive variants have a six-speed auto. No manual transmission is available. The sole trim level on offer has a solid complement of standard equipment including keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone climate control, a sunroof, premium vinyl upholstery , a 10-speaker, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.

 

MSRP: From $41,370

MPG: Up to 19 city / 28 highway

  

For more information You can visit http://www.lexus.com/to learn more about Lexus vehicles 

 

Read More