William Maley

That's because it's an inline-6, not V6. Much like Toyota and digital clocks, Mercedes-Benz ordered way too many CLA grilles and is trying their best to get rid of them.

Detroit?

The updated 2019 MKC will not be Lincoln's only debut for the LA Auto Show. Yesterday, the automaker released a mysterious teaser video revealing that another model will make its debut on November 28th. We possibly know what that model is thanks to some leaked photos. A video made its way onto YouTube with a slideshow of photos of the updated MKX or what it will now be known as the Nautilus. Like the MKC, the Nautilus gets a new rectangular grille from the Navigator and LED headlights. Like the Continental, the Nautilus features nameplates on the door. The interior appears to be unchanged for the most part. We'll have more details on the Nautilus later today. Source: oTo Cars on YouTube H/T to Chris Doane Automotive View full article

Volkswagen's Canadian site has dropped a teaser for the upcoming 2019 Jetta. The single gif reveals a couple of details about the design. One is that the side profile features some sculpting and a character line that possibly runs the whole length of the vehicle. Second is the Jetta's grille is similar to the T-Roc crossover with a pentagonal design. Last month, Volkswagen North America CEO Hinrich Woebcken told journalists that the next-generation Jetta "would have coupe-like form and promises to be "great-looking"." We can't see the coupe-like form in this teaser. At least we won't be waiting too long for the reveal. Volkswagen will show off the 2019 Jetta next month at the Detroit auto show. Source: Volkswagen Canada View full article

Every auto show, someone is bound to hit the publish button a bit too early on a vehicle that hasn't had its embargo lifted. The latest one is the Mercedes-Benz CLS which was supposed to be revealed tomorrow at the LA Auto Show. However, the Australian outlet Motoring.com.au let the cat out of the bag by publishing their story early. Since then, the story has been taken off their site, but not before other sites were able to get the pictures and some key information. The 2019 CLS's design is a bit underwhelming. Yes, there is a new front that with a new grille design and front bumper borrowed from the AMG GT coupe, along with a new trunk lid from the S-Class coupe. But the center part looks to be the same as previous CLS models. The matte gray paint featured in the photos doesn't help matters. Inside, the CLS is similar to the E-Class with a clean look for the center stack and a pair of 12.3-inch screens. There is seating for five people. The big news is what resides under the hood. The CLS will get Mercedes' all-new 3.0L turbocharged inline-six producing around 362 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. This engine will also feature a 48-volt mild hybrid setup that can boost torque to 553 pound-feet for a short time. We'll have more information on the CLS when Mercedes officially pulls the sheet off tomorrow at the LA Auto Show. Source: Wheels, CarScoops Pic Credit: Mercedes-Benz via Motoring.com.au View full article

One the signature traits of the Jeep Wrangler has to be the convertible top. Being able to lower or remove the top gives the Wrangler some flexibility that isn't seen on any other SUV. According to a source, the upcoming Wrangler pickup/Scrambler will have the option of a convertible top. The source doesn't go into detail about what the top will look like for the truck. Previous spy shots have hinted that the truck would come with a removable hard top as evidenced by a distinct front section similar to what you'll find on the current Wrangler hard top. We'll hopefully learn more details later this week when Jeep unveils the 2018 Wrangler at the LA Auto Show. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

With stricter CO2 emission regulations looming over the horizon from the European Union, Porsche is getting ready by launching a second electric vehicle to comply with them. According to Automotive News Europe, the EU is proposing a 30 percent reduction in CO2 emissions for new car fleets by 2030 - less than 67 grams per kilometer under the current NEDC testing cycle. Half of that must be achieved by 2025 as part of a milestone. Porsche's plan at the moment is to have more than half of its sales come from electrified vehicles, That includes the launch of the Mission EV and hybrid/plug-in hybrid vehicles. "Technically we certainly won’t struggle with that [target]," said Porsche development chief Michael Steiner. "The attractiveness [of Porsche's electrified lineup] should lead to a powertrain mix that ensures we are compliant." Steiner also said that Porsche is working on a second EV, but it would not be a sports car. "We're starting with a sporty four-door concept in the Mission E positioned between the 911 and the Panamera, so it's logical that we will look to balance our lineup with a product in a different segment such as an SUV." As we reported back in June, Porsche CEO Oliver Blume said the company is working on two new electric SUVs. One is a coupe-SUV (think BMW X6/Mercedes GLE-Cass) and the other is the next-generation Macan which is expected to go full electric only. Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required) View full article

In a recent interview with Automotive News, Mazda CEO Masamichi Kogai revealed that the company is working on an all-new crossover designed and built exclusively in the U.S. "We are actually going to introduce a totally new and different type of SUV. R&D is coordinating with our North American operations on that right now," said Kogai. He said the new model would slot into Mazda's current crossover lineup (CX-3, CX-5, and CX-9) and would not cannibalize the sales of any of the current models. Production will begin in 2021 at a plant that will be a joint venture between Mazda and Toyota. Mazda is planning to dedicate its entire capacity of 150,000 vehicles for this new model. It is unclear what this crossover could be, but some believe it could be the successor to the the CX-7. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) Photo Credit: William Maley for Cheers and Gears View full article

Infiniti describes the 2019 QX50 crossover as their 'most compelling' model to date. Quite the expectation for their new compact crossover that will be debuting in a few days time at the LA Auto Show. But if you look past the design that appears to be inspired by the QX60 crossover (and makes it look somewhat boring), Infiniti may have a good reason for saying this. The QX50 will be the first Infiniti model to debut their new VC-Turbo four-cylinder. This engine is unique as it can adjust compression from 8:1 to 14:1 by modifying the length of the piston stroke. The benefits to this are improved efficiency and diesel-like torque. Figures for the engine stand at 268 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with a CVT and the choice of front or all-wheel drive. Performance figures for the QX50: 0-60 MPH: 6.7 seconds (FWD), 6.3 seconds (AWD) Top Speed: 143 MPH Fuel Economy: 27 MPG Combined (FWD), 26 MPG Combined (AWD) The QX50 will also come with Infiniti's ProPILOT assist system that can control steering, acceleration, and braking on single-lane highways at the press of a button. This isn't a fully autonomous system however, you'll still need to pay attention to the road and intervene when needed. We'll have more details when the QX50 rolls on to the LA show floor in the next few days. Source: Infiniti Press Release is on Page 2 INFINITI QX50: A luxury crossover with world-first technologies and an all-new platform VC-Turbo: The world's first production-ready variable compression ratio engine All-new platform provides unrivaled refinement, rigidity and interior space ProPILOT Assist: Intuitive technologies support the driver Distinctive proportions, with INFINITI's signature Powerful Elegance design NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The new 2019 QX50 is the most compelling INFINITI to date. Based on an entirely new platform, the new QX50 is a mid-size crossover with world-first technologies, standout design and unrivaled interior space. "The 2019 QX50 is the most important vehicle we have ever launched, and it embodies everything the brand stands for: beautiful design, advanced technology and empowering performance. As a luxury, mid-size crossover, it's the right vehicle at the right time in one of the world's fastest growing segments." Christian Meunier, INFINITI Global Division Vice President VC-Turbo – the world's first production-ready variable compression ratio engine The VC-Turbo engine is the world's first production-ready variable compression ratio engine, transforming on demand. A breakthrough in combustion engine design, the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine adjusts its compression ratio to optimize power and efficiency. It combines the power of a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with the torque and efficiency of a four-cylinder diesel engine. A compelling alternative to diesel, it challenges the notion that only hybrid and diesel powertrains can deliver high torque and efficiency. "Variable compression ratio technology represents a breakthrough in powertrain development. The QX50, powered by our VC-Turbo, is the first production vehicle ever to give drivers an engine that transforms on demand, setting a new benchmark for powertrain capability and refinement. Randy Parker, Vice President, INFINITI Americas A multi-link system continuously raises or lowers the pistons' reach to transform the compression ratio. High compression ratios aid efficiency, while low ratios enable greater power and torque. The VC-Turbo offers any compression ratio between 8:1 (for performance) and 14:1 (for efficiency), maximizing driver control. The engine delivers 268 hp (200 kW) and 280 lb ft (380 Nm), an expected best-in-class combination of four-cylinder power and torque. The 2019 QX50 is expected to deliver fuel economy of 27 mpg (U.S. combined, front-wheel drive; 26 mpg all-wheel drive). Front-wheel-drive models offer a 35% improvement in fuel efficiency over the previous V6 gasoline QX50; all-wheel-drive models offer a 30% improvement. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), for seamless power delivery. Its infinite number of ratios perfectly matches the engine's ability to transform. All-new platform with predictive, predictable ride and handling The 2019 QX50 is built on an all-new platform, featuring a front-engine, front-wheel-drive-based layout. Engineered with flexibility of application in mind, the new platform sets new standards for refinement, rigidity and interior space in the compact luxury crossover segment. "The crossover market is the number one premium segment globally. The new QX50 is INFINITI's core model and offers premium buyers everything they could want from a vehicle of this type, thanks in part to the development of an all-new platform that is an ideal combination of roominess and packaging efficiency." François Bancon, Vice President, Product and Programs The platform's layout allows for higher levels of packaging efficiency than before, resulting in the new QX50's ideal interior proportions for passengers and cargo. The 2019 QX50 represents the first automotive use of SHF (Super High Formability) 980 MPa high-tensile steel, further strengthening the all-new platform. The high-tensile material can be molded into unprecedented shapes, saving weight and representing a torsional rigidity improvement of 23% over the current QX50. New ProPILOT Assist technologies support single-lane highway driving INFINITI's customers have stated their desire to remain a key element in the driving equation, so the brand's vision for driver-assistance technologies is a step removed from the notion of fully autonomous "driverless" motoring embraced by some carmakers. "INFINITI's ProPILOT Assist technologies offer support when needed and add to the enjoyment and confidence of the driver. Our intention is to empower the driver and enhance feelings of pleasure behind the wheel, not to remove the driver from the equation. The brand new QX50 will set a new benchmark in the biggest premium segment." François Bancon, Vice President, Product and Programs In the 2019 QX50, ProPILOT Assist technologies help the driver control acceleration, braking and steering during single-lane highway driving, placing them in total control. ProPILOT Assist is designed to add to driving enjoyment and confidence, and is available at the push of a button. Powerful exterior design, handcrafted interior Remaining true to the design of the QX50 Concept and QX Sport Inspiration, the QX50's aerodynamic exterior reinterprets INFINITI's distinctive Powerful Elegance design language and signature design cues for the mid-size crossover segment. It combines a confident stance with intelligent packaging, while deep character lines highlight the influence of human artistry in the design process. The new QX50 stands out on the road. Its elevated driver position maximizes visibility, for a clear view while driving and parking. Aerodynamic efficiency is key to the new QX50's design – the drag coefficient is reduced significantly compared to the previous QX50. Its hood, bumpers, A-pillars, tailgate and enclosed underbody are all specially designed to encourage airflow over, around and under the vehicle, with minimal turbulence. The unrivaled interior space, artistic application of high quality materials, and advanced craftsmanship make the cabin as welcoming and comfortable as it is flexible. Driver-centric, yet passenger-minded, the 2019 QX50 offers a package of technologies to enhance the driving experience. Its asymmetric layout and calm, connected ambience is designed to meet different needs of the driver and passengers. The cabin boasts extraordinary space, with a sliding rear bench enhancing cabin and cargo flexibility and creating rear legroom that is expected to be best in class. The trunk's volume expands from 31.6 cu ft (895 liters SAE) to 37 cu ft (1,048 liters SAE) as the rear bench slides fore and aft, growing to 60 cu ft (1,699 liters SAE) with the rear seats folded. With all seats in place, the QX50 accommodates three golf bags, or a stroller stored lengthways, with space for additional cargo. Under-floor storage areas allow owners to stow other items out of sight. Technical specifications Body and chassis Five-door, five-seater crossover, with all-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Four-cylinder variable compression ratio turbocharged engine driving the front or all wheels via a continuously variable transmission. Engine 2.0-liter VC-Turbo gasoline Type Turbocharged four-cylinder in-line with variable compression ratio Displacement (cc) 1,997 (8:1 CR) ~ 1,970 (14:1) Bore and stroke 84.0 x 90.1 mm (8:1 CR) ~ 84.0 x 88.9 mm (14:1 CR) Compression ratio 8:1 ~ 14:1 (variable) Max power 268 hp (200 kW) @ 5,600 rpm Max torque 280 lb ft (380 Nm) @ 4,400 rpm Valves 16 Fuel system Direct injection and multi-port (variable) Transmission XTRONIC continuously variable transmission with manual shift mode Performance 0-to-60 mph 6.3 secs (AWD) / 6.7 secs (FWD) Top speed (mph) 143 (230 kph) Dimensions (in / mm) Overall length 184.8 / 4,693 Overall height 66.1 / 1,679 Overall width* 74.9 / 1,903 Wheelbase 110.2 / 2,800 Ground clearance 8.6 / 218 *excluding door mirrors Fuel economy (US mpg) FWD, combined 27 AWD, combined 26 NOVEMBER 2017 # # # View full article

Tesla is known for building quick vehicles, but they're also known for burning through a lot of cash. Bloomberg recently crunched some numbers on how fast Tesla goes through money and the amount is quite shocking. According to their data, Tesla has been burning through $8,000 per minute (about $480,000 in an hour) for the past 12 months. At this rate, Bloomberg predicts that Tesla could run out of money by next August. Tesla spending money like it is going out of style is not all that surprising. The automaker is trying to ramp up production of the Model 3 along with dealing with various issues. Still, the $8,000 per minute figure gives us an idea of how far Tesla still has to go before exiting what it calls 'production hell'. Investors still are bullish on the electric car builder, with a share price of $317.81 at the close of trading yesterday. Tesla also has a market capitalization of more than $53 billion, beating the likes of Ford ($48 billion). The difference being is that Ford is able to consistently make a profit. Tesla says they have enough cash to meet its target of building 5,000 Model 3 sedans per week by the end of March, and expects to “generate significant cash flows from operating activities” afterward. The company is also reservations on their Roadster due in 2020* to help raise funds. Buyers will need to plop down $50,000 for the standard model or $250,000 for the Founders Edition. Tesla will only produce 1,000 models of the Founders Edition, meaning they could possibly produce $250 million in income. “Whether they can last another 10 months or a year, he needs money, and quickly,” said Kevin Tynan, senior analyst with Bloomberg Intelligence. Tynan estimates that Tesla needs to raise $2 billion or more in capital by mid-2018 to stay afloat. Source: Bloomberg View full article

I don't think that's being picky at all. I would like to have the GTI's motor in this as it would give it a little bit more oomph and might bump fuel economy.

Most wagon options in the U.S. fall under the slightly-lifted off-road category. The reason is quite simple as buyers like the looks and capability on offer when compared to standard wagons. Case in point is the latest member of the Golf family, the Alltrack. Volkswagen recently revealed that 75 percent of Golf SportWagens sold in the U.S. are Alltracks. We happen to be big fans of the Golf SportWagen as it builds upon many of strong points of the regular Golf by making it more practical. Can the Golf Alltrack do the same? The small changes made to the Golf Alltrack’s exterior help make it stand out somewhat. It begins with the slight 0.6-inch increase in ride height and a larger tire and wheel combination. Our SEL tester feature 18-inch wheels, while the S and SE make do with 17-inch wheels. Other exterior changes include new bumpers and lower body cladding. Volkswagen didn’t make any changes to the Alltrack’s interior which is a good thing. It retains the clean if a somewhat boring design that makes it easy to find the various controls. Build and material quality is very solid. SEL models get a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Volkswagen’s Car-Net infotainment system and navigation. We like how fast the system is with switching between various functions, physical shortcut buttons, and integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Car-Net loses some points for low-resolution graphics and the navigation system looking very dated. The seats are quite comfortable with excellent support and good bolstering to keep you planted when traversing down a winding road. Head and legroom are excellent in both rows of seats. A turbocharged 1.8L four-cylinder with 170 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque provides the motivation for the Golf Alltrack. This is paired with a six-speed DSG transmission (a six-speed manual is available on the S and SE) and Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system. Despite being about 300 pounds heavier than the SportWagen, the Alltrack doesn’t break a sweat. It feels just as fast as the SportWagen we drove last year with strong acceleration throughout the rpm band. The DSG still exhibits some sluggishness when leaving a stop, but improves when you’re up to speed with rapid and smooth shifts. Fuel economy is disappointing with EPA figures of 22 City/30 Highway/25 Combined. We saw an average of 25 MPG with a mix of 70 percent city and 30 percent highway driving. Ride and handling characteristics is much like the standard Golf and SportWagen. No matter the road surface, the Alltrack’s suspension was able to provide a comfortable ride. Around corners, the Alltrack does show a little bit of body roll. However, it feels as agile as the standard SportWagen and the steering is quick to respond to inputs. The Golf Alltrack begins at $25,850 for the base S with manual transmission. Our loaded SEL tester totaled $35,705 with the Driver Assistance and Light package. That’s a lot of money for a compact off-road wagon, especially considering you can get into a larger Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited with the excellent EyeSight active safety system for around the same money. If we were buying a Golf Alltrack, we would drop down to the S with the DSG and order the Driver Assistance package, bring the total price to just over $28,500. The Alltrack is a worthy addition to the Golf family as it provides something a bit more capable while retaining many of the plus points of the standard Golf. We do wish the DSG was smoother during low-speed driving and fuel economy was slightly better. Disclaimer: Volkswagen Provided the Golf Alltrack, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2017 Make: Volkswagen Model: Golf Alltrack Trim: SEL Engine: Turbocharged 1.8L TSI DOHC Four-Cylinder Driveline: Six-Speed DSG, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 170 @ 4,500 Torque @ RPM: 199 @ 1,600 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 22/30/25 Curb Weight: 3,351 lbs Location of Manufacture: N/A Base Price: $32,890 As Tested Price: $35,705 (Includes $820.00 Destination Charge) Options: SEL Driver Assistance & Lighting Package - $1,995.00 View full article