William Maley

Over the past six months and numerous articles with the ‘As the Diesel Emits’ in the title, we are no closer to have a fix for the around 600,000 Volkswagen diesel vehicles with illegal emission software. Instead, we have been treated a first-rate performance of ‘How not to handle a crisis’. From Volkswagen’s delay of admitting the illegal software to CEO Matthias Muller seeming very oblivious to what happening in an interview. It seems the German automaker is getting one black eye after another. The past month or so has seen the crisis cranked up to eleven. New documents revealed that senior managers, including former CEO Martin Winterkorn, were alerted about the U.S. probing some of their TDI models back in 2014 This was followed up by a letter from last year alerting Winterkorn that the Volkswagen did use a defeat device in their diesel models - two weeks before the official EPA announcement. A U.S. Federal Judge has given Volkswagen until March 24th to give an answer on where they stand on a possible fix. Volkswagen of America CEO and President Michael Horn suddenly stepped down from his position. With Horn’s departure, dealers want answers as to what happens next or a mutiny could happen. Ever since this scandal came to light, there has been a question that has been floating around in my head: Does Volkswagen know how much trouble it is in? On the surface, it seems they do and are trying their best to rectify this issue. But dig a little bit further and there are very troubling signs. For example, the Associate Press last week learned from a couple people that Volkswagen’s management in Germany resisted the plan set by Horn to offer $1,000 in gift cards to owners as a gesture of goodwill. Thankfully management relented and the program was instituted. Then there was Volkswagen’s first proposal to fix the affected vehicles in the U.S. which got rejected by the California Air Resources Board as it was “incomplete, substantially deficient and fall far short of meeting the legal requirements to return these vehicles” to compliance. Since then, Volkswagen has been working on a new solution to present to CARB and the EPA, though we haven’t heard anything about it. These concerns bring up another question about Volkswagen: Do they know what their place in America is? Last September, Automobile Magazine ran an excellent editorial titled Volkswagen Has Never Understood its Place in the U.S. In the piece, the author argues that Volkswagen is seen by many Americans as something out of the mainstream - original Beetle, Microbus, Golf GTI, and their diesel lineup. Because of this, Volkswagen has a small, but loyal fanbase, But Volkswagen sees themselves as something different; a mass-market brand capable of selling many vehicles around. Except in the U.S. A few years ago, Volkswagen set an ambitious goal of selling 800,000 vehicles in the U.S. by 2018. To achieve this goal, the automaker decided to build vehicles tailored to the marketplace. What we ended up with was a Passat and Jetta that were appealing as stale bread because that is what the company thought would sell. At first, the strategy worked as sales of Volkswagen vehicles increased. But in the past couple of years, sales have dropped precipitously. The company has been scratching their heads as to why this is happening. It goes back to Volkswagen not understanding their place in the U.S. That last sentence can be extended further into the diesel emission crisis. The way Volkswagen has handled this crisis is nothing short of disastrous. If you are a company dealing with a massive crisis, the key thing you should be doing is keeping everyone somewhat abreast of what is happening. Volkswagen has barely done this and has given the impression that they are really not doing anything, despite all of the reports saying Volkswagen is conducting an internal investigation and working on a fix. This one quote from the Automobile Magazine editorial partly sums the predicament Volkswagen finds itself in. “That left the small clique of devoted enthusiasts, folks who bought Volkswagens because they were Volkswagens, and often because they were Volkswagen “clean” diesels. These are precisely the people Volkswagen just kicked in the teeth.” They’re not the only group that Volkswagen has caused pain. Dealers who bought into Volkswagen’s vision of being a mass-market brand and spent close to a billion dollars, only to see sales fall apart are not very happy. There also seems to be a disconnect between dealers and Volkswagen as this quote from Bloomberg illustrates, “The suggestion was startling: Maybe VW should give up on selling cars to America’s masses. It was late January, at the Detroit auto show, and Herbert Diess, the global chief of Volkswagen AG’s namesake brand, was sounding out U.S. dealers as the company grappled with the biggest crisis in its modern history. Perhaps, Diess wondered aloud, VW should stop trying to compete with the likes of Toyota Motor Corp. in America and go back to focusing on higher-end models. “It was near crickets in the room,” said Alan Brown, chairman of VW’s U.S. dealer council.” Volkswagen is now at a crossroads with seemingly everyone angry with them in one form or another. There are so many things the company could have done to be in a better place than they are currently. But the Volkswagen’s mindset and not fully understanding the U.S. put them in a the place where they are now. Whether or not they learn from this experience and make the necessary changes to survive remains to be seen. The one thing we are sure about is that Volkswagen lost a lot of trust from various groups because of this scandal. As anyone will tell you, regaining trust is a seemingly impossible task. View full article

A new wrinkle has appeared in the Volkswagen diesel scandal. Last week, Daniel Donovan filed suit against Volkswagen of America for wrongful termination and breaking the Michigan Whistleblowers' Protection Act after reporting that the company continuing deleting data after the EPA said to stop. On September 18, the EPA filed a violation notice against Volkswagen's diesel vehicles. Part of that notice required Volkswagen to not delete any more data. Donovan alleges in the suit that workers at Volkswagen Group of America's data processing center in Auburn Hills, MI did not stop till September 21st. Donovan told his supervisor about this and tried to stop the deletions. A couple of months later, Donovan was fired. Donovan claims his firing was due to concerns Volkswagen of him reporting this to authorities. "The circumstances of Mr. Donovan's departure were unrelated to the diesel emissions issue. We believe his claim of wrongful termination is without merit," said Volkswagen in a statement to Autoblog. Unfortunately, we don't know what kind of data was deleted. But if these allegations are proven to be true, it doesn't matter what kind of data it was: Volkswagen violated the order and could be facing punishment for it. Source: Courthouse News Service, Sueddeutsche Zeitung, Reuters, Autoblog View full article

As Honda/Acura begin production of the NSX, talk has sprung up about doing a more extreme version. Nick Robinson, Dynamic Development Leader on the NSX told Autocar there are a number of folks who want Honda to do a Type R version as it would continue the revival of the company’s sporting heritage. Robinson was quick to point out that Honda hasn't approved anything at the moment. What would an NSX Type R look like? It would be lighter than your standard NSX to begin with. A key item that could be removed is the NSX's hybrid powertrain. Not only would it remove a fair amount of weight, but it also would make it rear-wheel drive. There could also be the use of lightweight materials. “There are places weight could be cut out. We are Honda so cost [of exotic materials on the regular car] is a consideration, but for a limited edition? Why not?” said Robinson. Robinson also mentioned that a convertible version of the NSX is likely to follow. Source: Autocar View full article

Toyota has updated the Highlander - its three-row crossover - for the 2017 model year. It might not be the most exciting vehicle making its debut at the New York Auto Show, but it is an important one as crossovers are currently the big sellers for many automakers. The changes begin on the exterior with more prominent lower and upper grilles that are finished in either silver (LE, LE Plus and XLE) or chrome (Limited or Limited Platinum). Toyota has also introduced a new trim for the Highlander called the SE. This trim adds a dark finish for the grilles, 19-inch alloy wheels, and new suspension tuning. Under the hood is a new 3.5L V6 with direct injection. Toyota hasn't revealed any power figures, but does say “will generate significantly more horsepower” than the current 3.5L V6. An eight-speed automatic will no doubt improve fuel economy. The base 2.7L four-cylinder and hybrid powertrain carry over. Toyota has added a number of safety features for the 2017 Highlander. Automatic braking, auto high-beams, lane-departure warning, Pedestrian Pre-Collision, and radar cruise control all come standard via Toyota Safety Sense package. The 2017 Highlander family arrives at dealers later this fall. Source: Toyota Press Release is on Page 2 Toyota's Debut of 2017 Highlander Mid-Size SUV to Showcase Significant Performance Updates Newly Developed Direct Shift 8-Speed Automatic Transmission New 3.5-liter Direct Injection V6 Boosts Horsepower/Helps Increase MPG New Available Stop and Start (S&S) Engine System Standard Toyota Safety Sense New Sportier SE Gas Model; Hybrid Trim Expands to Four Grades Refreshed Exterior Styling TORRANCE, Calif., March 14, 2016 -- Toyota will be debuting the significantly enhanced 2017 model year Highlander mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) on Wednesday, March 23 at the upcoming New York International Auto Show. The popular Highlander, receives an array of new and updated equipment and technology, inside and out, including a new Direct Shift 8-speed (8AT automatic transmission). Highlander is a no-compromise mid-size three-row SUV that brings together the best in style, technology, comfort, capability, and safety. Its exterior design conveys both refinement and strength, which complements a refined interior that sets a high bar in its segment. The third- generation model, now entering its fourth year, offers room for up to eight, a choice of three powertrains and six model grades, including a new sporty SE model. The Highlander Hybrid adds two new grades, (LE and XLE) to its existing lineup of Limited and Platinum models for a total of four. All Highlander Hybrid models will continue to be all-wheel drive (AWD). The six Highlander gas models will continue to be (LE, LE Plus, XLE, SE, Limited and Limited Platinum) available in both front-wheel and AWD. It all adds up to the ideal family vehicle. Greater Level of Performance Performance will be enhanced in the 2017 Highlander gas models with the addition of the new Direct Shift 8AT (automatic transmission) that will be paired with a new 3.5-liter V6 Direct Injection Engine. The new transmission is more compact and will provide more transmission efficiency through its 8-speed gear range. The 8AT (Automatic Transmission) will be standard on all V6 Highlander gas models. The new 3.5-liter Direct Injection V6 Engine will be available on all Highlander gas models and standard on all Hybrid grades. The new engine will generate significantly more horsepower, provide enhanced fuel efficiency, and deliver a more direct driving feel by expanding the lock up range. In addition to Highlander, the new Direct Shift 8AT (automatic transmission) and 3.5-liter V6 Direct Injection Engine powertrain will be equipped in the 2017 model year Toyota Sienna van. In an effort to help conserve fuel, Highlander V6 models (excluding LE) will come standard with a new Stop and Start Engine System (S&S). While driving the Highlander, the S&S allows the engine to shut off when the vehicle comes to a complete stop and restarts when the driver lifts their foot off of the brake pedal. The standard powertrain on Highlander 4x2 LE gas models will remain the 2.7-liter 4- cylinder paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. All Highlander Hybrid models will continue to receive the electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT). Updated Luxury Look and Feel The 2017 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid will receive tasteful styling enhancements that will continue to turn heads. The changes start with a new upper and lower front grille design for all grades. Each grade will be distinguished by different grille finishes that will also carry into the headlamp housing. The grille on all LE, LE Plus and XLE grades will receive a silver painted finish, while Limited and Platinum grades will receive a painted chrome finish. From behind, the rear taillights will receive a sleeker redesign. A chrome trim garnish will also be added on the rear bumper of Limited and Platinum models. Highlander will receive three new exterior colors, including Celestial Silver Metallic, Toasted Walnut Pearl, and, exclusively on the new SE, Salsa Red Pearl. Interior updates include a new brown leather interior that will be available on the Limited Platinum grade. Charging personal devices will be more efficient as all Highlanders will add four USB ports for a total of five. For those looking for a Highlander with all the bells and whistles but require added passenger seating, the premium Limited and Limited Platinum grades will offer buyers the choice of second-row captain’s chairs (providing seating for seven), or second-row bench seats that will expand capacity to eight people. Sporty New SE Grade For a touch of sportiness, Highlander will now be available in the new SE model. It starts on the outside with unique 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, tuned suspension for a sportier ride, and a sporty dark paint treatment to the front grille, which is also incorporated into the headlamp housings and roof rails. Inside, the SE will stand apart from all other Highlander models with unique black leather- trimmed seats with silver stitching and pattern seat inserts, a black front tray, and matching dash and door inserts. Toyota Safety That Makes Sense The 2017 Highlander will come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS), a new multi- feature advanced safety package anchored by automated pre-collision braking. TSS bundles cutting edge safety technologies including Pre-Collision System (with Forward Collision Warning and automatic emergency brake), Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beams, Pedestrian Pre- Collision System and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The Pedestrian Pre-collision System (PCS) uses a camera and radar to detect objects ahead of the vehicle. 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 provides additional braking force. If the driver fails to brake in a set time, the system automatically applies the brakes, reducing speed in order to prevent or mitigate the collision. Lane Departure Alert (LDA) uses a camera to detect visible lane markings. If the system determines that the vehicle is starting to deviate from the lane, LDA alerts the driver and will provide steering assist to help get the vehicle back into its lane. Automatic High Beam (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 dazzle other drivers. The Highlander XLE grade will also adopt blind spot monitor as standard equipment. To help make parking easy and safe, the 2017 Highlander Limited Platinum grade will come standard with a Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan. This Toyota technology employs four cameras that are mounted on the front, the side mirrors and rear of the vehicle to project a panoramic view of the vehicle’s surroundings on the central touch display monitor. The system offers drivers assistance when parallel parking, and when pulling in and out of parking spaces. The Bird’s Eye View Monitor system also debuts a Toyota-first feature called Perimeter Scan, which provides a live rotating 360-degree view around the vehicle, helping the driver to see potential obstacles. Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana (TMMI) in Princeton, Ind., which employs over 4,000 American workers, assembles all Highlanders and exports them to 12 countries. The 2017 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid will begin arriving at Toyota showrooms in the fall of 2016. View full article

Jealous. I'll be getting one in a few weeks for an evaluation.

To answer the original question, at first I was thinking ATS-V coupe. But with a base under $63,000, it doesn't leave me any room for options. So I would go with the ATS coupe in Premium with the turbo 2.0L and manual; performance brake package, and sunroof which brings me to $53,000. If I want a roadster - then I would go with the 718 Boxster which would bring me to just over $64,000 the way I would equip it.

The Hellcats are awesome to look at, awesome to listen to, but not so awesome to drive in anything but a straight line. Comparatively speaking, they are a real handful. Driven back to back, they have grip issues that other cars of similar power just don't have. You could take a CTS-V out on the track and it will perform to its own extremes without leaving you white knuckled. I can second that. I drove one last year at Chrysler's Proving Grounds and while it is an addictive engine note, it is a handful on corners. I drove the Hellcat Charger back with a Scat Pack Charger, and felt more comfortable in the Scat Pack on the handling course.

Buick was hoping to keep the curtain closed on 2017 Encore before its debut at the New York Auto Show. But a Chinese website has ruined that. auto.tom.com got their hands on some leaked photos of the Chinese-market Buick Encore which matches up perfectly with the updated Opel/Vauxhall Mokka that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show with a revised front end. This is likely what we'll be seeing in a couple weeks time at New York. It is expected that the Encore will have the turbocharged SIDI 1.4 four-cylinder (found in the Touring model with 153 horsepower), along with a revised dashboard and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Source: auto.tom.com View full article

Mercedes-AMG is going overboard with the number of models it is offering, Case in point is the 2017 E43 that will be debuting at the New York Auto Show in a few weeks. Like the C43 Coupe that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show, the E43 uses a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 paired with a nine-speed automatic and a rear-biased 4Matic all-wheel drive system. Unlike the C43, the E43 produces slightly more power: 396 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque vs. 362 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. This is due to larger turbos and revised engine software. Performance figures for E43 are a 4.3 second run to 60 mph and a limited top speed of 155 mph. Aside from the engine, the E43 gets a new air suspension with three-mode adaptive dampers, stronger suspension knuckles, and quad-tip exhaust. The exterior boasts new diamond grille, 19-inch AMG wheels finished in high-gloss black, and a rear diffuser. "The new AMG E43 offers impressive driving dynamics coupled with cutting-edge efficiency. Twin turbocharging, features adopted from motorsport and characteristic AMG design immediately indicate to our customers that the new E-Class from AMG offers pure Driving Performance coupled with cutting-edge technology and intense emotion," said Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH in a statement. The 2017 Mercedes-AMG E43 arrives in dealers early next year. Source: Mercedes-Benz Press Release is on Page 2 The new Mercedes-AMG E43 First high-performance variant of the new E-Class March 10, 2016 - Affalterbach: Hot on the heels of the world premiere for the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class at the North American International Auto Show this January, the first high-performance variant of the new E-Class is already on the way from Mercedes-AMG. The Mercedes-AMG E43, boasting a 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine, will represent the most powerful variant of the luxury sedan when it hits dealerships by early 2017. This high-powered six-cylinder engine delivers an output of 396 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive combines optimum traction with high agility on the AMG E43, thanks to rear-biased torque distribution with a front-to-rear ratio of 31:69 percent. The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with shorter shift times, AMG AIRMATIC Adaptive Sport Suspension and the more direct steering ratio also provide for signature AMG Driving Performance. "The new AMG E43 offers impressive driving dynamics coupled with cutting-edge efficiency. Twin turbocharging, features adopted from motorsport and characteristic AMG design immediately indicate to our customers that the new E-Class from AMG offers pure Driving Performance coupled with cutting-edge technology and intense emotion," notes Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. On the AMG E43, Mercedes-AMG has upgraded the six-cylinder engine's output by 34 hp to 396 hp with the aid of two larger turbochargers and sophisticated AMG software. The ample peak torque of 384 lb-ft is available from a low engine speed of 2,500 rpms all the way through 5,000 rpms. This package guarantees performance on par with many a sports car: the new AMG E43 achieves a 0-60 time in just 4.5 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. The data at a glance: Mercedes-AMG E43 Engine V6 Biturbo Displacement 2996 cc Output 396 hp at 6100 rpm Peak torque 384 lb-ft at 2500-5000 rpm Curb Weight 4,145 lbs Acceleration 0-60 mph 4.5 s Top speed 155 mph (electronically limited) Sporty and distinctive: the exterior design The looks of the AMG E43 render it immediately recognizable as a member of the AMG family. Apart from underscoring a powerful appearance, three large openings in the front bumper also ensure an optimum flow of air to the coolers. Two elegant cross fins on the outer cooling openings enhance the vehicle's visual presence. The diamond grille with chromed pins, a louver in high-gloss black and AMG lettering represent further hallmarks of the AMG 43 models. The side view of the AMG E43 is dominated by high-sheen 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black. The rear end features characteristic highlights including two chrome-plated quad-flow exhaust tailpipes conveying a particularly sporty aesthetic. The rear diffusor comes in silver chrome, while the standard-specification spoiler lip on the trunk lid is painted body color. Sporty look with model-specific details: the interior design The interior reinforces the dynamic caliber of the new AMG E43 with numerous individual details. The driver and front passenger find a secure position in the sport seats even when driving at top speed, thanks to the improved lateral support. The upholstery in MB-Tex/DINAMICA (optional: nappa leather) features a distinctive layout and red topstitching. To match the seat design, the door center panels and dashboard are finished in MB-Tex with red topstitching. Exclusive pedals, a black roof lining and red seat belts add further sporty highlights. The multifunction sports steering wheel with Touch Control in black nappa leather with red contrasting topstitching and a flattened bottom section is ideally suited for sporty driving. The AMG instrument cluster delivers all relevant information in a clearly arranged layout optimized for a dynamic driving style on the available fully-digital, high-resolution 12.3” instrument screen. High on power, low on consumption: the AMG 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine The V6 Biturbo engine boasts a high power output combined with low fuel consumption and emissions. The high power output of 396 hp is attributable, among other things, to new, larger turbochargers and the higher charge-air pressure of 16 psi. Installed close to the engine, the two turbochargers provide near-instantaneous power. The NANOSLIDE® coating on the cylinder liners has also undergone further development in the Formula 1 V6 hybrid turbo engines from Mercedes-Benz. Especially tough and wear-resistant, this coating reduces friction, thereby contributing to higher efficiency. The same applies to the spray-guided fuel injection, with up to 2900 psi of pressure. The AMG powerplant can be identified by the red aluminum insert in the engine cover. Short shift times and high efficiency: the 9G-TRONIC The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is specially matched to the requirements of the new AMG E43. The multiple downshift function enables more spontaneous short bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in "Sport" and "Sport Plus" transmission modes makes for an even more emotional driving experience. Defined ignition intervention additionally enables faster gear shifting than in "Eco" and "Comfort" modes. "Manual" mode can be selected using a separate button in the center console. The gear changes are based on the selected transmission mode and the driver can now change gear using the paddles on the steering wheel. Moreover, the transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches the limit. More agility: AMG AIRMATIC Adaptive Sport Suspension For added agility, more neutral cornering behavior and higher traction even when driving at high speeds, engineers in Affalterbach have designed a dedicated sports suspension on the basis of the AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension system. The Adaptive Damping System offers a choice of three modes – "Comfort," "Sport" and "Sport Plus." This provides for broader scope between a high level of comfort for longer journeys and sporty driving dynamics. The four-link front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components have been optimized in terms of rigidity. A more negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle enhances lateral dynamics. The elastokinematics of both axles have been designed to be more rigid in general. All these measures improve agility and boost the dynamics. Rear-biased and agile: AMG Performance 4MATIC The AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive system features rear-biased torque distribution with a front/rear axle split of 31 to 69 percent. This configuration provides for enhanced driving dynamics and higher lateral acceleration on the road as well as improved traction when accelerating. In combining the permanent four-wheel drive with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, the engineers have opted for a change of concept: the single-stage transfer case of the four-wheel drive is flange-mounted on the 9G-TRONIC as a separate system. On earlier generations of vehicles, the transfer case was integrated into the 7G-TRONIC PLUS. The new add-on solution makes it easier to modify torque distribution according to the model, thus enabling even more individual characteristics for the respective model series. The new system is also more effective than the earlier concept by virtue of improved efficiency, reduced friction and lower weight. Its compact design does not restrict space for either passengers or luggage. Characteristics at the tap of a finger: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT With the five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes "Eco," "Comfort,” "Sport," "Sport Plus" and "Individual," the driver can tailor the characteristics of the AMG E43 to individual preferences at the tap of a finger. The available range extends from efficient and comfortable to extremely sporty and modifies key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering. Independently of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, the driver has the option of pressing the "M" button to switch directly to manual mode, in which gearshifts are executed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. The suspension set-ups can also be selected as necessary. The AMG DYNAMIC SELECT "Sport" and "Sport Plus" transmission modes are configured with a clear emphasis on driving dynamics on the new AMG E43. This results from an agile accelerator pedal characteristic with direct set-up and emotional gear shifting with reduced shift times and double declutching. The increased idling speed additionally enables the vehicle to move off quickly and provides for faster acceleration from a standing start. In order to increase efficiency, in "Eco" mode the ECO start/stop function and the gliding function reduce fuel consumption: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 31 and 99 mph, the clutch is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The electronics reduce the engine speed to idling level, and the driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode. Direct and with clear feedback: speed-sensitive sports steering The speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable ratio on the AMG E43. It stands out with its precise, highly authentic feedback. Steering power assistance is available in a choice of two modes – "Comfort" or "Sport." The relevant characteristics are automatically activated depending on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode or can be personalized in Individual mode. Manual torque is increased in "Sport" mode, providing more feedback on driving conditions. The large braking system with internally ventilated compound brake discs ensures reliable and quick deceleration of the sedan. Optional features with a sporty emphasis The optionally available features also emphasize the sporty character of the AMG E43. These range from AMG seats with increased lateral support to nappa leather upholstery to 20-inch wheels. The new Mercedes-AMG E43 will have its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in March 2016 and will be in US dealers by early 2017. View full article

If I was to ask you to name a midsize hybrid sedan, what would you say? Most likely it would be the Toyota Camry Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid, or even the Honda Accord Hybrid. But one that might not reach the lips of many people would be the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The first-generation model was a bit out there in terms of looks with a front end that seemed more at home in a carnival fun house. But the Sonata Hybrid was different for another reason. Unlike most hybrids which used a CVT, the Sonata Hybrid used a conventional six-speed automatic. The first-generation model wasn’t well received because of the odd looks, an unrefined powertrain, and lackluster fuel economy. So Hyundai went back to drawing board to fix the wrongs. The end result was shown last year in the form of the second-generation Sonata Hybrid. First up is the powertrain. Hyundai is using a new 2.0L direct-injected four-cylinder producing 154 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with a 38kW electric motor delivering 51 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Total output of the system stands at 193 horsepower, about 6 horsepower less than the last-generation Sonata Hybrid. A 1.62 kWh lithium-polymer battery sits underneath the trunk. Hyundai is still using a six-speed automatic. . Compared to the last Hyundai/Kia hybrid we drove (the 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid), the Sonata Hybrid is a substantial improvement. The hybrid powertrain is much smoother when transitioning from electric-only to hybrid power. The only indications that you have swapped is a slight hum coming from the engine and the ‘EV Mode’ indication in the instrument cluster being off. Performance is par for the class; you are able to keep up with traffic, but there will be times where you’ll be putting your foot almost to the floor to make a pass or merging into traffic. One feature I do like is how the EV mode will work up to highway speeds. For a few miles at a time on the highway, I found the Sonata Hybrid was only being powered by the battery alone. The six-speed automatic is the weak link in this hybrid powertrain. It may remove the constant drone that CVTs have, but what you end up is a transmission that doesn’t fully mesh with the powertrain. The transmission holds onto gears much longer than it should and it stumbles somewhat during the transition from EV to hybrid. I don’t know if a little bit more time in development would solve these issues or if Hyundai should look into another transmission type. The EPA says the Sonata Hybrid will return 39 City/43 Highway/41 Combined in terms of fuel economy. Unfortunately, I only got 32 MPG during the week I had the Sonata. This was primarily due to the extremely cold temperatures we were dealing with in the Detroit area. With temperatures reaching a high of 15 to 20 degrees during the day and dropping to below zero at the night, the Sonata Hybrid’s engine was constantly running to provide a charge for the battery and keeping the vehicle warm. If it was warmer, I think the vehicle could achieve those numbers. The Sonata Hybrid’s suspension does an excellent job of providing a smooth ride, even over some of the pothole-ridden roads Michigan is known for. Noise isolation is possibly the best in class with no hint of wind noise and a slight hum coming from the low-rolling resistance tires. Much like the standard Sonata, the Hybrid isn’t the most exciting car to drive with light steering. But around corners, the hybrid does feel secure and doesn’t show much body lean. The body features some minor changes such as new front fascia (larger grille and new bumper), taillights, rear diffuser, and a distinguishing design for the 17-inch alloy wheels. The changes do make the Sonata Hybrid more efficient in terms of aerodynamics (0.24 cd vs. 0.27 for the standard Sonata). It also gives the Sonata Hybrid some personality that is missing in the current model lineup Hyundai has made a number of fixes and improvements for the second-generation Sonata Hybrid, and for the most part, they do make it more fulfilling as a hybrid sedan. The Sonata Hybrid also has Hyundai’s value argument. This particular Sonata Hybrid came with as-tested price of $35,765. But for that price-tag, it came with radar cruise control with stop/start capability, forward collision warning, automatic high beams, an eight-inch touchscreen with navigation, 400W audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. But the only thing that Hyundai still needs to work is the transmission. The automatic is an interesting choice, but it doesn’t quite mesh with the powertrain. If Hyundai can work out the bugs in the transmission, then they will have a possible class leader. But for now, the Sonata Hybrid is currently playing follow the leader. Disclaimer: Hyundai Provided the Sonata Hybrid, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2016 Make: Hyundai Model: Sonata Hybrid Trim: Limited Engine: 2.0L GDI 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve with DCVVT, 38kW Electric Motor Driveline: Front-Wheel Drive, Six-Speed Automatic Horsepower @ RPM: 154 @ 6,000 (Gas); 51 @ 1,770-2,000 (Electric); 193 @ 6,000 (Total) Torque @ RPM: 140 @ 5,000 (Gas); 151 @ 0-1,770 (Electric) Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 39/43/41 Curb Weight: 3,560 lbs Location of Manufacture: Asan, South Korea Base Price: $30,100 As Tested Price: $35,765 (Includes $825.00 Destination Charge) Options: Ultimate Package - $4,500 All-Weather Floor Mats - $130.00 Carpeted Floor Mats/Trunk Mat/Trunk Net - $125.00 Wheel Locks - $55.00 First-Aid Kit - $30.00 View full article