2016 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT SPORTS REFRESHED LOOK AND NEW TECH

At the Chicago Auto Show, Hyundai Motor America introduced a refreshed Elantra GT for the 2016 model year, offering updated styling with customer-focused technology and features. With a more distinctive front fascia and all-new 17” alloy wheels, Elantra GT’s new look further enhances the vehicle’s signature sporty styling. And when mated to a standard 2.0-liter Gasoline Direct Injection engine, the formula comes together to deliver a vehicle that both looks and feels dynamic. Elantra GT’s acclaimed sporty styling, crisp handling and spacious interior won’t break the bank either, as 2016 Elantra GT pricing will start at just $18,800, excluding $825 freight charge, and will be available in dealerships starting this March.

2016 Elantra GT Updates Redesigned grille with horizontal chrome and argent slats Newly styled 17-inch alloy wheels Available Ventilated Driver’s and Passenger’s Seat (a segment first) Available next-generation navigation with HD Radio and Apple Siri integration Available next-generation Blue Link system with new connectivity features such as Remote Start with Climate Control and Destination Search Powered by Google

STANDARD 2.0-LITER NU GASOLINE DIRECT INJECTION ENGINEThe 2016 Elantra GT comes standard with a 2.0-liter Nu engine mated to the choice of either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual shift control. Fuel is delivered by a high-pressure Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) system, which helps improve engine response compared to non-GDI models. A shorter, more direct path of fuel delivery allows for greater control of the fuel mixture, thus improving efficiency. The fuel is injected by a camshaft-driven, high pressure pump that operates at pressures up to 2,175 psi. Direct injection also utilizes a higher than normal 11.5:1 compression ratio for increased power. The pistons are “dished” to increase combustion efficiency in the cylinder. This high-tech, all-aluminum engine also has Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (DCVVT) and a Variable Induction System (VIS) for better engine breathing. A lightweight intake manifold also reduces weight by 30 percent over a cast unit. Power is rated at 173 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 154 lb.-ft. of torque at a 4,700 rpm. The 2.0-liter Nu has been tuned to provide more torque at 1,500 rpm than the 1.8-liter Nu previously available on the Elantra GT and currently available on the Elantra Sedan. The engine also produces more torque - from 4,000 rpm to 5,500 rpm - for impressive linear power delivery all the way to redline. The engine delivers an impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 24 mpg city/33 mpg highway/27 mpg.

Hyundai is known for its defining and distinctive ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design language. The ‘Fluidic’ essence provides the Elantra GT with a slippery .30 coefficient of drag. Everything about Elantra GT is aerodynamic from the aggressive profile and low overall height, to the sleek side mirrors. Tire gaps are minimized while rocker panels are streamlined. Lower wind resistance translates into a smoother and quieter ride.

Up front, Elantra GT’s revised front grille adds a distinctive and assertive look more consistent with Hyundai’s newer models. Its sporty look is further complemented with wrap-around headlamps and sculptured hood creases. The body-side graphic features a chrome beltline molding to keep up with the sleek character lines. Sharp projector headlamps, available fog lights and all-new 17-inch euroflange alloy wheels complete the modern design. It’s all finished off in the rear with available LED taillights.

LOW CURB WEIGHTElantra GT’s widespread use of high-strength steel results in a lower curb weight and allows the suspension to work optimally. At 2,904 pounds, the automatic transmission Elantra GT is lighter than most of its competitors, while offering more interior room than Focus, Mazda3 and Golf. Elantra GT is 44 pounds lighter than Focus and 119 pounds lighter than Golf 5-door.

SIX-SPEED TRANSMISSIONSThe Elantra GT can be equipped with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual shift mode. The six-speed automatic includes an overdrive lock-up torque converter for higher fuel economy at freeway speeds. Elantra GT’s six-speed manual transmission provides short, crisp shifts and further optimizes engine performance thanks to triple-cone synchronizers for first and second gears, double-cone for third gear and single-cone for fourth, fifth and sixth gears. Also, an upshift indicator in the instrument panel identifies the ideal shift points to save fuel.

Maximizing interior volume and delighting customers with various seating layouts are hallmarks of Hyundai engineering and translate into more cabin room, cargo space and versatility. The Elantra GT features seating layouts that can comfortably seat five people or accommodate four passengers, plus long items like golf clubs or snowboards. Drivers may opt to fold down two seats to seat three people and hold larger packages or fold down all of the back seats to get CUV-sized cargo space. The rear seats can fold completely flat by first folding the lower seat cushion upward. These options allow customers to discover that Elantra GT has more interior volume than Mazda3, Ford Focus and VW Golf and even more cargo capacity than the Nissan Juke crossover, thanks to the fold-flat rear seats. Elantra GT also features the best front and rear shoulder room in its class.

The Elantra GT includes a number of convenient, standard stowage and storage features, including a sunglasses holder, two front and two rear cup holders, door bottle holders, cooled glove compartment, central console storage, sliding armrest, front storage tray and front seatback pockets. The cargo area also has a 12-volt outlet for passengers who desire to plug in their portable electronic devices.

RIDE AND HANDLINGElantra GT is fitted with a MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. The rear suspension is comprised of a lightweight coupled torsion beam for enhanced steering stability and monotube shock absorbers. A 22mm diameter front stabilizer bar helps reduce body roll when cornering. Elantra GT is tuned for added feel, responsiveness and control, while the Elantra Sedan is tuned for comfort. Modifications to the GT include higher rear spring rates, a stiffer twist beam and Sachs dampers for improved body motion control. These changes create driving dynamics which are sporty and comfortable. In addition, two suspension packages were developed to optimize tuning for the two different tire sizes. The Elantra GT’s Style package offers a sportier suspension calibration that is optimized for its lower-profile P215/45R17 tire.

Behind the wheel, drivers benefit from Hyundai’s Driver Selectable Steering Mode, which has been enhanced with a 32-bit processing system and tuned for better steering feel for the 2016 model year. With three operating modes to select – Comfort, Normal and Sport – this innovative system allows drivers to adapt Elantra GT steering characteristics to varying driving preferences and road conditions any time they choose. ‘Comfort’ offers the greatest ease of steering and is ideal for city and parking environments. ‘Sport’ is optimized for higher-speed highways or winding roads, while ‘Normal’ is ideal for a mix of driving conditions. The Driver Selectable Steering Mode adjusts power assistance levels in each mode and moderates on-center feel and steering build-up curves throughout the steering range, allowing for a very natural, progressive feel. Steering damping characteristics, active return gain and high frequency friction levels have also been optimized for Elantra GT in this system. Even more, Elantra GT’s turning diameter of 34.8 feet is better than Focus and Golf.

OVERALL DIMENSIONS

Elantra GT rides on a 104.3-inch wheelbase and has an overall length of 169.3 inches. The height is 57.9 inches and the width is 70.1 inches.

CABIN REFINEMENT

Cabin refinements on the Elantra GT are inspired by the high standards of the entire Hyundai lineup. Located in the center console, the available all-new navigation system is displayed via a seven-inch touch-screen and incorporates the rearview camera screen. Elantra GT’s rear-view camera is like no other. This mechanized camera is hidden behind the Hyundai badge on the rear hatch and only appears when needed.

 Dual-zone climate controls ensure a comfortable environment for all occupants, and the addition of a panoramic sunroof provides increased natural light within the cabin. The dual-zone climate controls also incorporate an automatic defogging system, which detects humidity levels using a sensor and activates the system accordingly. Another premium feature in the Elantra GT is a CleanAir Ionizer that automatically cleans the air when the heater or air conditioner is running.

For the 2016 model year, both driver and passenger can enjoy the comfort of the segment’s first ventilated front seats available in the Tech Package. Heated seats are standard on all trims of Elantra GT.

Nissan in Europe is first car maker to apply glow-in-the-dark car paint.

• EV pioneer Nissan is first manufacturer to partner with similarly innovative inventor to create paint that uses UV energy absorbed during daylight to glow at night
• Increasing numbers of LEAF owners expanding sustainability efforts by installing solar panels to their homes

Nissan in Europe has become the first manufacturer to apply glow-in-the-dark car paint to showcase how its market-leading, all-electric LEAF is helping more and more people convert to solar energy at home.

The manufacturer worked with inventor, Hamish Scott, creator of STARPATH, which is a spray-applied coating that absorbs UV energy during the day so that it glows for between eight and 10 hours when the sun goes down.

While glowing car paint is already available, as are glow-in-the-dark car wraps, the bespoke, ultraviolet-energized paint created especially for Nissan is unique thanks to its secret formula made up of entirely organic materials. It contains a very rare natural earth product called Strontium Aluminate, which is solid, odorless and chemically and biologically inert.

Various third-party companies have applied non-organic glow-in-the-dark paint to vehicles before, but Nissan is the first car maker to directly apply such technology. Nissan's unique paint, if made commercially available, would last for 25 years.

With running costs of just two pence* or less per mile to run, the UK's 7,500 plus Nissan LEAF owners have reported significant savings and are using the money they save on a wide variety of items; among the more popular of these are solar panels for the home, which decreases the household carbon footprint and means owners are also effectively charging their vehicle for free.

Research revealed recently by Nissan showed that 89 percent of LEAF owners charge their cars at home overnight. Although solar panels do not store energy or provide it outside of daylight, any leftover power generated during the day is fed back into the national grid and homeowners can get a Government payment for it, meaning that the overnight charge is already paid for.

LEAF owner Ian Finch is one of those who has combined the savings offered by running an all-electric vehicle with solar panels to power his home.

"Running the Nissan LEAF costs a sixth of the amount we'd pay to run a diesel or petrol car," he said. "Overall, we are probably using 25 percent less electricity thanks to our solar panels and it's a fantastic experience to be able to drive the LEAF using electricity that's been produced completely for free."

SUBARU COLLECTS BEVY OF AWARDS AT CHICAGO AUTO SHOW

Bolstering its tremendous seven-year sales growth, Subaru’s product line-up is also receiving strong recognition: at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show the company collected no less than four separate awards for its products. 

Subaru won the 2015 Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own Award for the Brand category. These awards are based on Kelley Blue Book’s 5-Year Cost to Own data for new cars for the initial five-year ownership period. 

Motorweek awarded the all-new 2015 Legacy its Drivers' Choice Award for Best Family Sedan. Each year, MotorWeek editorial staff selects the best models in a variety of lifestyle categories ranging from family sedan to luxury car, to large utilities and pickups. From that group, an overall best of the year is chosen. 

U.S. News and World Report gave Subaru its 2015 Best Wagon for the Money award for the best-selling Outback. To find the award winners, U.S. News combines the average price paid from TrueCar, Inc. and five-year total cost of ownership data from Vincentric, LLC with their rankings data. The U.S. News rankings are based on the opinion of the automotive press about a car's performance, interior features and interior comfort, along with reliability and safety ratings.

Consumer Guide® Automotive awarded the Subaru BRZ with a “Best Buy Award” in the Sporty/Performance Car category. This is the second consecutive win for the BRZ in the category. Editors of Consumer Guide® Automotive test drive more than 150 new vehicles each year and select the top ones in each class as Best Buys. A vehicle does not become a Best Buy based solely on objective ratings; it also has to distinguish itself as being a good dollar value compared to others in the class.

The awards given to the Legacy model in particular cap a strong launch for the all-new 2015 model which has earned attention from media writers for its much improved interior, entertainment and connectivity, as well as improved ride and handling. Further to its status as an IIHS Top Safety Pick, Legacy was also named "Best Car to Buy 2015" By The Car Connection and “Best New/Redesigned Car $25,000-$30,000” in Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Top Picks for 2015.

In January 2015, Subaru recorded a 24 percent increase over January 2014. These results continue the company’s sales momentum from 2014 where Subaru achieved six consecutive years of record sales and exceeded 500,000 annual sales – a first in company history. 

All seven 2015 Subaru models have Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awards – two with Top Safety Pick and five with Top Safety Pick+ including the Forester, Legacy, Outback, Impreza, and XV Crosstrek, when equipped with optional EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. In January, Subaru also earned Kelley Blue Book’s prestigious 2015 Best Resale Value Brand Award and three vehicle segment awards – Compact Car Category: 2015 Subaru Impreza; Sporty Compact Car Category: 2015 Subaru WRX; and Mid-Size Car Category: 2015 Subaru Legacy. 

2016 HYUNDAI VELOSTER RECEIVES MAJOR PERFORMANCE, DESIGN AND CONNECTIVITY ENHANCEMENTS, PLUS NEW RALLY EDITION

Hyundai unveiled a new Rally Edition, coupled with significant design, dynamic and connectivity enhancements to its Veloster coupe at the Chicago Auto Show today. The Veloster Rally Edition builds upon Veloster Turbo R-Spec enthusiast credentials, with a more performance-focused suspension, RAYS® lightweight wheels with wide 225/40R18 tires, carbon-fiber-look aero accents, unique badging and floor mats. The Rally Edition is a limited production run planned for 1,200 units, all in a stunning Matte Blue paint, guaranteeing exclusivity to its enthusiast owners. 2016 Veloster will be available at dealers in May 2015.

In addition, the 2016 Veloster Turbo model now offers a performance-oriented 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), a new machined-finish turbo-exclusive wheel design, a sportier seat design, enhanced electroluminescent gauge cluster and black headliner. The Veloster non-turbo receives a new 17-inch wheel design and available black seats with yellow accents.

 Also for 2016, all Veloster models offer a revised hood appearance without vent accents, a dark gray grille surround, 10mm-wider tires fitted to all 18-inch wheels, and new audio/navigation system functions (HD Radio®, Apple Siri®, and next-generation Blue Link®).

 All Veloster and Veloster Turbo models feature cutting-edge powertrain technologies like direct injection, optimizing their appeal to youthful customers by combining excellent fuel economy, spirited performance and low emissions without compromise.

2016 Veloster Highlights

• Veloster Rally Edition
  • Sportier spring, damper, and stabilizer bar tuning compared with R-Spec
  • RAYS® lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels (5 lbs. lighter per wheel)
    • 225/40R18 performance all-season tires
  • B&M Racing® Sport Shifter
  • Carbon-fiber-look aero accents
  • “Rally Edition” floor mats and badging
  • Exclusive Matte Blue Paint

• Veloster
  • New 17-inch alloy wheel design
  • Revised hood and front grille design
  • 10mm-wider tire width for 18-inch wheel option; now 225/40R18
  • Available black-bolster seats with yellow inserts w/select exterior colors
  • Enhanced 7-inch touchscreen audio/navigation system functions, including:
    • HD Radio® capability
    • “Eyes Free” Apple Siri® integration
    • SiriusXM® Travel Link (90-day trial)
    • Next-generation Blue Link® telematics enhanced function

• Veloster Turbo
• Available 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT)
• New Turbo-exclusive18-inch machined-finish alloy wheel design
• New, sportier front seats with more aggressive bolstering
• Available orange-accented seat bolsters and interior accents
• New, sportier electroluminescent gauge cluster
• Red seat belts on Turbo R-Spec model
• 10mm-wider tire width for 18-inch wheels; now 225/40R18

NEW VELOSTER RALLY EDITION

New for 2016, the Veloster Rally Edition leverages the street credibility established by the Turbo R-Spec model. It features a higher performance tune for the springs, dampers, and front stabilizer bar, for even more responsive and precise handling capabilities. Complementing these suspension tuning upgrades, RAYS® lightweight alloy wheels have been fitted, reducing unsprung weight by five pounds per wheel for even better dynamic response and a distinctive sports appearance. The aero kit features carbon-fiber-look accent covers for a sporty appearance, with Rally Edition exterior badging. The Rally Edition is only available in an exclusive Matte Blue exterior color and black leather with blue-accented sport seats and only with the short-shifting B&M Racing® Sport Shifter and 6-speed manual transmission. Finally, embroidered floormats round out the distinctive look of this special performance model. 

                                                                                   SPORT BIKE TUNER INSPIRATION

In profile, the Veloster features “Fluidic Sculpture” character lines, muscular wheel arches, bodycolor door handles and mirrors, and wraparound headlights and taillights. Veloster’s dynamic rear design has a distinctive glass hatch and dual center-fascia chrome exhaust tips that complement the assertive front fascia.

On the Turbo, the Veloster offers two distinctive, free-flowing round exhaust tips. Further, all Turbo models feature Active Sound Design, providing richer in-cabin powertrain sound character for an even more involving driving experience, especially during spirited driving.

From the bigger, bolder hexagonal front grille, ground effects, rear bumper fascia, and prominent diffuser vents, Veloster Turbo’s design adds aggression and aerodynamic stability compared with the base model. A new set of machined-finish 18-inch alloy wheels with argent spoke bevels add sophistication and sportiness to the side profile. From the front, Veloster Turbo reveals eight individual headlight LED accents, a feature typical on more expensive models.

Inside Veloster Turbo, leather seating surfaces with Turbo embroidering on the side bolsters help deliver a distinctive appearance while providing higher levels of comfort and support. For 2016, orange-accented seat bolsters are available with Ultra Black and Vitamin C exterior colors on the turbo model, and the turbo-exclusive electroluminescent gauge cluster has been enhanced, offering the driver information in a larger, clearer and more interactive format, with a larger TFT screen located between the tachometer and speedometer. Heated front seats are also standard on the Turbo version.

All-New 2016 Honda Pilot Makes World Debut and Redefines the Midsize, Three-Row SUV at 2015 Chicago Auto Show

• Modern, refined and confidently capable new Pilot launching this summer
• Advanced and efficient Earth Dreams Technology™ powertrains
• Class-leading safety features, fuel efficiency and driving dynamics
• A host of new technologies and even more packaging flexibility

The all-new 2016 Honda Pilot SUV made its global premiere today at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show. Reengineered and redesigned in America, the 2016 Honda Pilot delivers more family-friendly utility, more advance technology and more premium attributes and amenities than ever before, boasting class-leading safety features, fuel efficiency and confident driving dynamics in a thoroughly modern, stylish and sophisticated new package.

The all-new 2016 Pilot, launching at Honda dealerships nationwide this summer, is the third generation of Honda's three-row midsize SUV to be designed, developed and manufactured in America. Reinforcing 2015 as the "Year of Honda," Pilot further strengthens Honda's SUV/CUV triple threat by joining the exceptionally well received 2015 CR-V (2015 Motor TrendSUV of the Year) and greatly anticipated new 2016 HR-V.

"With looks that command attention and the powerful presence of true functionality, the 2016 Pilot sets a new benchmark in the midsize SUV class with an unmatched combination of sophistication and utility," said Jeff Conrad, Honda Division senior vice president and general manager. "This means the all-new Pilot will comfort, entertain and assist active families in all aspects of their lives, whether it's an evening out for two, a road trip adventure for all or just the chores of everyday life."

Premium Style and Features
The all-new design of the 2016 Pilot sports a modern, sleek, yet commanding and muscular form incorporating new premium features, including optional brighter and more efficient LED projector headlights with auto high beam technology, available signature LED daytime running lights and taillights, plus available 20-inch wheels and a first-ever panoramic roof option. The premium quality of the new Pilot carries over to the interior, where designers have applied high-quality, soft- touch materials throughout the cabin and added thoughtful details such as LED map lighting.

Additional high-end amenities include available heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel and heated second-row seats. For the first time, upper-trim Pilot models will have available two second-row captain's chairs, providing for easy walk through between the second and third rows, in addition to the standard second-row three-person 60/40 split seat for 8-passenger seating capacity.

Advanced Technology 

The new Pilot delivers the connectivity and power access that the modern family demands, including up to five USB ports, four that provide better recharging with 2.5-amp output, to charge iPads or smartphones while in use. Additional ports and plugs include an auxiliary jack for nearly any audio player, an HDMI port for a gaming console, two headphone jacks, two 12-volt power outlets and a 115-volt outlet to power just about anything.

The new Pilot also incorporates Honda's latest thinking for advanced, family-friendly technology, including an upsized 8-inch capacitive touchscreen Display Audio telematics interface powered by a new Android-based operating system and more powerful processor, along with an available all-new embedded Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™. The new navigation system features improved graphics and new capabilities, including 3D renderings of terrain, buildings and road signs, improved lane guidance, live search function, 911 emergency services and more.

The Pilot's Display Audio system enables simplified smartphone connectivity making for easier access to all the features and connectivity options of the HondaLink™ connected-car system. A 9-inch rear entertainment system with DVD and new Blu-Ray disc™ capability is available.

Family-Friendly Utility
The new Pilot builds on its reputation for best-in-class interior space, versatility and utility with 3.5 inches of added overall vehicle length, enabling a larger cargo area that can hold an 82-quart cooler without compromising third-row seating capability, a segment-exclusive feature. Third-row entry and exit is made even easier and more intuitive courtesy of an available one-touch walk-in second-row seat that slides and tilts to its forward-most position at the touch of a button. As compared with the current Pilot, the width of the lower portion of the third-row entryway has been increased by 2.5 inches with 1-inch lower step-over height.

The Pilot's new center console features a cavernous storage compartment capable of accommodating items as large as a full-size iPad or large purse. And with its seamless cover in the closed position, the console provides a convenient, non-slip surface for items that the driver or front passenger may need close at hand.

Earth Dreams Technology™ Powertrain
The 2016 Pilot delivers more refined, powerful and fuel-efficient performance than ever before courtesy of its new 3.5-liter, direct-injected i-VTEC® V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™) cylinder deactivation technology. For improved fuel efficiency, the Pilot will include available Idle Stop technology that shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, instantly and smoothly restarting the engine when the driver lifts their foot off the brake pedal. The new engine is mated to one of two advanced new transmissions – a Pilot-first 6-speed automatic transmission, or on upper trims, a Honda-first 9-speed automatic transmission – both delivering notably refined, responsive and fuel-efficient performance. The new Pilot will be available in front-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations and will feature a completely new Honda all-wheel-drive system that delivers even more confident, efficient and dynamic all-weather performance.

The new Pilot is almost 300 pounds lighter than the outgoing model; its more rigid, tightly sealed yet lighter body in combination with new, efficient powertrains, a new all-wheel-drive system and class-leading aerodynamics result in class-leading dynamic performance and fuel efficiency along with a new level of cabin quietness befitting its status as a premium family SUV. 

Advanced Safety Performance
In keeping with Honda's commitment to safety, the new Pilot will feature the most comprehensive set of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies ever offered on a Honda vehicle. Together these technologies make up Honda Sensing™, a suite of technologies designed to expand the driver's situational awareness while sensing and responding to potential road hazards, including other vehicles, road obstacles and even pedestrians, mitigating the possibility or severity of a collision. It includes Honda's popular LaneWatch™ display, Blind Spot Indicators, a standard Multi-Angle Rear View Camera, and available Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, Adaptive Cruise Control and a Honda-first Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) system.

The new Pilot is expected to deliver the highest safety ratings in its class and targets a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), including a GOOD rating in all crash modes. The new Pilot incorporates Honda's next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, designed to more efficiently absorb and disperse the energy from a frontal collision, along with a new ultra-high-strength door ring designed to help better protect occupants. The 2016 Pilot also incorporates an all-new 3-bone platform while also utilizing high and ultra-high strength body materials, which together reduce noise, vibration and harness (NVH), improve handling, increase rigidity and reduce weight. 

Standard safety and driver-assistive features include four-channel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist; Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control; an Expanded View Driver's Mirror; dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, driver and front passenger SmartVent™ side airbags and side-curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions; and a new Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with real-time display of individual tire pressures.

For more photo's on the all new 2016 Honda Pilot, click here.

VOLKSWAGEN ANNOUNCES PRICING OF 2015 GOLF SPORTWAGEN

• Pricing starts at $21,395 for the S model with manual transmission: a content adjusted reduction of $700 over the previous base Jetta SportWagen
• New TDI® S model reduces base Clean Diesel pricing by almost $2,000
• Newly available driver assistance technology includes Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
• Larger interior than outgoing Jetta SportWagen rivals compact SUVs for size
• Car will be offered with 1.8-liter turbocharged TSI® gasoline and 2.0-liter TDI Clean Diesel engines
• TDI Clean Diesel model offers EPA estimated highway fuel economy of up to 43 mpg, beating all compact SUVs
• Based on flexible Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) architecture, this new car weighs up to 137 pounds less than outgoing Jetta SportWagen
• As much fun to drive as a Golf with the versatility of a compact SUV

Volkswagen of America, Inc, announced pricing of the all-new Golf SportWagen. With a starting Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $21,395 for the 1.8T S model with manual transmission, the latest SportWagen features more standard equipment, increased fuel efficiency, and more space than the outgoing Jetta SportWagen S model. The TDI® Clean Diesel model starts at $24,595, a reduction of almost $2,000 over the previous base TDI model price.

Scheduled to hit dealer showrooms in April, 2015 Golf SportWagen models will be offered with two powertrains: the EA888 1.8-liter, 170-horsepower turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder TSI® engine mated to a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission; and the EA288 2.0-liter, 150-hp turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder TDI Clean Diesel, fitted with a six-speed manual or a six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The 1.8T model with manual transmission has an EPA estimated highway fuel economy rating of 36 mpg, while the TDI Clean Diesel model gets 43 highway mpg according to EPA estimates. These figures better all compact SUVs on the market, while offering comparable cargo volume—30.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 66.5 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.

In addition to a long list of standard amenities, several new comfort and convenience features will be available on the 2015 Golf SportWagen including the Fender® Premium Audio System and Climatronic® automatic air conditioning. Newly available driver assistance systems include Automatic Post-Collision Braking, the Forward Collision Warning System, and front and rear Park Distance Control. An available lighting package includes LED Daytime Running Lights and the Adaptive Front-lighting System.

The Golf SportWagen has grown in size yet dropped in weight by up to 137 pounds (depending on model) compared with the Jetta SportWagen, despite a plethora of new and upscale features. Dimensionally, the Golf SportWagen has grown slightly, by 1.1 inches in overall length to 179.6 inches, and by 0.7 inches in width, to 70.8 inches. However, because the new car is 0.9 inches lower and has a 2.2 inch longer wheelbase, it looks more muscular and has a premium “cab backward” aesthetic.

MODEL LINE-UP
Golf SportWagen TSI S

The SportWagen TSI S starts at $21,395 and features a standard turbocharged and direct-injection1.8-liter engine; 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; Bluetooth® connectivity; a touchscreen radio; Sirius XM® Satellite Radio; a Media Device Interface (MDI) with iPod® integration; leatherette seating surfaces with manual lumbar adjustment; power windows; power door locks; and air conditioning. An automatic transmission is available as an $1,100 option.

Golf SportWagen TSI SE
Available only with the six-speed automatic transmission, the SE starts at $26,995 and adds the following features over the S: 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; front foglights; a panoramic sunroof; KESSY® Keyless access with push-button start; a rearview camera, and the Fender® Premium Audio System. An optional Lighting package is available for $995 and includes Bi-Xenon headlights with the Adaptive Front-lighting System, LED DRLs, and ambient interior lighting with LED interior reading lights. The $695 Driver Assistance package includes the Forward Collision Warning System and front and rear Park Distance Control.

Golf SportWagen TSI SEL
Building on the specifications and layout of the TSI SE, the top gasoline-powered SportWagen trim starts at $29,345 and adds: 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels; chrome roof rails; a navigation system; Climatronic® automatic air conditioning; sport comfort seats with a 12-way power driver’s seat; and ambient lighting with LED interior reading lights. The Lighting and Driver Assistance packages are available on the SEL as well.

Golf SportWagen TDI S

The line-up of Clean Diesel Golf SportWagen models largely mirrors its gasoline siblings in terms of features and packages. The base TDI S starts at $24,595 and offers a six-speed manual gearbox and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels as standard, with a dual-clutch DSG automatic available for an extra $1,100. KESSY Keyless access with push-button start and a rearview camera are among the standard features.

Golf SportWagen TDI SE
Starting at $27,995, the TDI SE has the same list of equipment and optional packages as its gasoline-powered counterpart, the TSI SE, including the Fender Premium Audio System, automatic headlamps and a panoramic sunroof. The Lighting and Driver Assistance package are available. The DSG transmission is an $1,100 option.

Golf SportWagen TDI SEL
Starting at $30,345, the TDI SEL’s standard equipment mirrors the TSI SEL, adding features such as a navigation system, Climatronic automatic air conditioning, and sport seats with 12-way power adjustment for the driver. Both Lighting and Driver Assistance options packages are available on this trim. The six-speed manual transmission is standard, with the option of the DSG automatic ($1,100 extra).

Fresh Face: Chevrolet Introduces Restyled 2016 Equinox

Premium cues, new safety features enhance Chevy’s record-selling compact SUV

Chevrolet today introduced the 2016 Equinox – a contemporized version of the popular compact SUV. Updates include new styling with premium accents, new wheel designs and new available safety features, as well as a larger color touchscreen radio and a standard rear-vision camera for entry-level models.

The enhanced Equinox goes on sale this fall, building on five years of record sales in the highly competitive compact SUV segment and strengthening Chevrolet’s broad sport utility lineup, which includes the Traverse, the all-new Trax small SUV and the redesigned 2015 Tahoe and Suburban full-size SUVs.

“Chevrolet Equinox is a pillar of the compact SUV segment, thanks to a value rooted in great style, efficiency, safety and connectivity,” said Alan Batey, president, GM North America. “The enhancements to the 2016 Equinox make a versatile vehicle an even better choice, and demonstrate Chevrolet’s commitment to delivering the broadest lineup of SUVs in the industry.”

Equinox sales in the U.S. increased to 242,242 in 2014 – the fifth consecutive year of record sales since the second-generation launched as a 2010 model.

It also held more than 9 percent of the compact SUV market, which surged 17.4 percent in 2014 and accounted for 15.5 percent of the total vehicle market – eclipsing midsize cars for the first time to become the auto industry’s largest segment.

The roster of new and updated features available on the 2016 Equinox includes:

• New trim lineup: L, LS, LT and LTZ, a streamlining of the model lineup that eliminates the 1LT and 2LT trims.
• New front fascia and chrome-accented dual-port grille design – including specific chrome trim on LT and LTZ grilles
• New, premium projector-beam headlamps on all models helps make the Equinox more visible at night
• New daytime running lamps on LT and LTZ, with reflector-style lamps on L and LS, and light-emitting diode, (LED) lamps on LT and LTZ that create a distinctive, upscale lighting signature
• New fog lamps on LTZ
• New, Chevy-signature dual-element taillamps, revised license plate applique and revised lower rear fascia on all models, with chrome trim on LTZ lower fascia
• New 17-inch aluminum wheels on LT and new 18-inch aluminum wheels on LTZ
• New available 17-inch wheel optional on LS model
• New chrome exhaust outlets on V-6 models
• Available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert safety features on LT and LTZ
• Standard seven-inch-diagonal Color Touch radio (including Bluetooth phone connectivity) and rear-vision camera on L and LS models
• Revised instrument panel “center stack” with new storage shelf and updated control graphics
• New, chrome-trimmed transmission shifter with Electronic Range Selector mode buttons relocated to the top of the shifter handle
• Enhanced interior fabrics in L and LS designed for a premium look and feel
• New Saddle Up interior color
• New universal tablet holders available through dealers from Chevrolet Accessories. They mount on the rear of the front seats to provide convenient access for rear-seat passengers.

“The new face of the Equinox is highlighted by a more expressive execution of chrome accents and premium lighting,” said John Cafaro, executive director of design, global Chevrolet cars. “The result is a modern exterior that’s matched inside with premium features on all trim levels, complementing the Equinox’s enhanced technology and functionality.”

A compact SUV with big features

The 2016 Equinox seats five, with all-wheel drive offered on LS, LT and LTZ models. Its roomy interior – with the GM-exclusive MultiFlex sliding rear seat – offers 31.4 cubic feet (889 liters) of cargo space behind the rear seat and 63.7 cubic feet (1,803 liters) with the rear seat folded. 

The standard Ecotec 2.4L direct-injected engine delivers an EPA-estimated 32 mpg on the highway (FWD models). A direct-injected 3.6L V-6 is available with LT and LTZ models and delivers best-in-class 301 horsepower (225 kW) and 272 lb-ft of torque (369 Nm). The V-6 engine also enables a trailering capacity of up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg) – capability unmatched by four-cylinder-only competitors.

Chevrolet MyLink is standard on LT and LTZ models, while OnStar with 4G LTE connectivity and built-in Wi-Fi hotpot is offered on all trim levels. Equinox was the first in the segment to offer 4G LTE and it provides a mobile hub for drivers and passengers to stay connected. The hotspot is on whenever the car is on and comes with a three-month/3GB data trial (whichever comes first).

In addition to available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert safety features, Equinox also offers Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning as part of comprehensive safety packages.

Equinox fast facts

• Chevrolet’s second-best selling vehicle in North America, after Silverado
• Equinox claimed 9.3 percent of the U.S. compact SUV market in 2014
• First generation debuted as a 2005 model
• Second generation introduced as a 2010 model
• Second generation sales in the U.S. and Canada totaled more than 1 million through the end of 2014
• More than 1.4 million Equinox vehicles of both generations are on the road.

Chevrolet Equinox Has Best January Ever

Refreshed 2016 model to be introduced at Chicago Auto Show

Chevrolet will introduce an updated 2016 Equinox
on February 12 at the Chicago Auto Show.

Customers snapped up nearly 20,000 Chevrolet Equinox compact SUVs in January – a 34-percent increase over year-ago sales that made it the model’s best January ever and Chevrolet’s second-best selling vehicle, behind the Silverado full-size pickup.

Equinox’s January performance builds on the momentum of five consecutive years of record sales. Annual sales in the U.S. increased to 242,242 last year, accounting for more than 9 percent of the rapidly growing compact SUV market. Compact SUVs eclipsed midsize cars in 2014 for the first time to become the auto industry’s largest segment.

“In one of the industry’s most competitive segments, the Equinox continues to win customers with its value-driven balance of performance, versatility and personal connectivity,” said GM North America President Alan Batey. “It also represents the depth of Chevrolet’s strong SUV lineup, ranging from the all-new Trax small SUV and Traverse to the redesigned 2015 Suburban and Tahoe.”

Chevrolet will introduce an updated 2016 Equinox February 12 at the Chicago Auto Show.

2016 Honda Pilot debuting at the Chicago Auto Show

With the introduction of the HR-V subcompact crossover coming this spring, Honda turns its attention to the Pilot midsize crossover. Based on the teaser photo and what Honda is saying ahead of the debut, the three-row Pilot looks to be getting an overhaul from the wheels up. 

The redesigned Pilot, scheduled to arrive this summer, sports a more aerodynamic look than the current version. Honda says the 2016 Pilot will offer class-leading fuel economy and advanced safety features. 

For more information on the Chicago Auto Show, click here. 

Chevy Colorado GearOn™ Edition Brings More Adventure

Versatile accessories package maximizes cargo capability; enables more fun

Chevrolet today introduced the 2015 Colorado GearOn™ Special Edition, which blends the capability of the all-new midsize pickup truck with the versatility of the GearOn accessory system – and additional popular features.

It makes its public debut Feb. 13-22 at the Chicago Auto Show. 

The Colorado GearOn Special Edition goes on sale this spring with a starting price of $31,250. It’s offered on LT models in extended or crew cab configurations, with the long or short cargo bed and available 4WD.

“Chevrolet Colorado answers the call for customers who have passions of all types and the GearOn accessory system enables them to bring more adventure wherever they go,” said Tony Johnson, Colorado marketing manager. “And with Colorado offering segment-leading efficiency and capabilities, it’s a combination that maximizes adventure without compromise.” 

The GearOn accessory system is designed for easy configuration with a multitude of mounting accessories for everything from bikes, kayaks, skis and stand-up paddle boards to a bed-mounted tent. Many of the GearOn accessories allow the bikes, boards and other “tools” of adventure to be mounted on upper rails, leaving room in the bed below for complementing gear.

The Colorado GearOn Special Edition includes the GearOn bars package, divider package and cargo tie-down rings. Additional GearOn accessories can be purchased separately and the customer can have them installed at the time of delivery (installation charges may be extra). The cost of the accessories can be included in monthly vehicle payments, when they’re chosen before taking delivery.

Additional content on the Colorado GearOn Special Edition includes:

• EZ Lift and Lower tailgate
• Off-road assist steps
• Gloss black 18-inch aluminum wheels
• Body-color grille
• Front and rear black Chevy bowtie emblems
• Front fog lamps
• Rear window defogger
• Remote start.

GearOn^TM Accessories are available for installation on the entire Colorado portfolio.   

Chevrolet Colorado offers the most horsepower and best highway efficiency in the segment, as well as the highest available trailering rating – 7,000 pounds (V-6 2WD) – and higher payload rating – 1,590 pounds (V-6 2WD).

Award winner

Chevrolet Colorado was named the 2015 Motor Trend Truck of the Year^® and Cars.com’s Best Pickup Truck of 2015.

Visit Kupper Chevrolet in February to save on the 2015 Colorado during Chevy Truck Month.