November 2016

2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport — More horsepower, upgraded suspension

By Christopher A Sawyer
The Virtual Driver

(November 5, 2016) As VW did with the current generation Jetta when it introduced the GLI model, the Hyundai Sport jettisons the standard car’s inexpensive torsion beam rear suspension for a more expensive and capable multi-link independent design. While they were at it, Hyundai engineers also increased the spring and damper rates, added a rear anti-roll bar, and increased the size of the front bar by 2 mm to 24 mm.

Harold labels the new Chrysler Pacifica a winner

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(November 4, 2016) Chrysler moved back to the head of the minivan class with its all-new 2017 Pacifica. Its stylish looks, upscale interior, roomy cabin, and scads of convenience and features make it a top pick against the segment leaders Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna.

So there's no surprise that the Automotive Reporter's Harold Gunn also livery much liked the new minivan as he signs its praises in his weekly radio report.

Historical Ford Rouge Center goes landfill-free

(November 4, 2016) DEARBORN, Mich. — After two years of work and planning, the historical Ford Rouge Center has achieved true landfill-free status. It is the company’s largest complex to send zero waste to landfill. 

“It’s an incredible achievement,” said Gary Johnson, Ford North America manufacturing vice president. “With 16 million square feet of factory floor space and approximately 7,000 employees it was a challenge, but we’ve succeeded in finding solutions for our manufacturing waste streams.”

Toyota Highlander gets more horsepower for 2017; starts at $31,570

(November 4, 2016) TORRANCE, Calif. — Toyota has announced manufacturer’s suggested retail prices for the 2017 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid sport utility vehicle starting at $31,570 including destination charge. Toyota says the Highlander’s value is significantly enhanced thanks to an array of technologically advanced safety, performance and convenience features added as standard equipment, enhanced styling, and competitive pricing.

While the base price is up only $140, the popular XLE model has been increased by $1,205 to $39,460, representing a 3.2 percent hike from 2016.

Audi's first U.S. laser light will be on the R8 V10 to be shown in L.A.

(November 4, 2016) Audi of America will debut its first U.S. production laser light on the 2017 Audi R8 V10 plus exclusive edition. The R8 exclusive edition utilizes full LED headlights, which are now supplemented by a laser high beam module in each headlight at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show.

World Series MVP Ben Zobrist presented 50th anniversary Camaro

(November 3, 2016) CLEVELAND — It's become a tradition — Chevrolet hands over a new car or truck to the most valuable player of the World Series. And last night the 2016 World Series Most Valuable Player Ben Zobrist was presented with a 2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS 50th Anniversary Edition, recognizing his strong performance on the field as the Chicago Cubs won their first World Series since 1908.

A media panel and first-ever online fan vote on MLB.com, the club sites and the MLB.com At Bat app helped determine the MVP Award winner.

EPA names Mazda most fuel-efficient automobile manufacturer in U.S.

(November 3, 2016) WASHINGTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) noted in its most recent Light Duty Fuel Economy Trends report that Mazda Motor Corporation is the most fuel-efficient auto manufacturer in the U.S.  With the highest fleet-wide adjusted fuel economy performance of 29.6 miles per gallon (MPG), Mazda led the chart for model yea 2015.

For the fourth consecutive year, Mazda has achieved the highest fuel-efficiency of any mainstream automotive manufacturer in the industry, without offering a hybrid or electric vehicle.

Ford unveils next-generation driver-assist technologies

(November 3, 2016) Building on its industry leadership in available driver-assist technologies, Ford Motor Company is expanding its offerings with a range of next-generation features designed to ease parking hassles, improve collision avoidance, detect objects in the road and prevent wrong-way driving.

Ford unveils next-generation technologies for stress-free driving

(November 3, 2016) DEARBORN, Mich. — Building on its industry leadership in available driver-assist technologies, Ford Motor Company is expanding its offerings with a range of next-generation features designed to ease parking hassles, improve collision avoidance, detect objects in the road and prevent wrong-way driving.