September 2017

Kia unveils extended 'hot hatch' concept for Europe

(September 7, 2017) FRANKFURT, Germany —  Kia Motors has revealed new images of the Proceed Concept hatchback. Kia’s new concept car makes its world debut at the 2017 Frankfurt International Motor Show on Sept. 12. Designed at Kia’s European design centre in Frankfurt, less than a half mile from where it will be unveiled, the Proceed Concept indicates what the next-generation cee’d — sold only in Europe — could look like.

Nissan unveils all-new electric Leaf with 150-mile range

(September 6, 2017) LAS VEGAS — The all-new Nissan Leaf sets a new standard in the growing market for mainstream electric vehicles by offering customers greater range (150 miles), advanced technologies and a dynamic new design. Drivers will feel more confident, excited and connected thanks to the new Nissan Leaf's ProPILOT Assist driver assistance technology, e-Pedal, increased power and range, and improved refinement, comfort and convenience.

Chevrolet Bolt EV now available at dealers nationwide

(September 7, 2017) DETROIT — Chevrolet has announced that the Bolt EV is now available by order or in stock at certified dealerships nationwide. Through Aug. 30, Chevrolet had sold 11,670 Bolt EVs this year and 12,249 since the start of sales in December 2016. The Bolt offers an EPA-estimated 238 miles of range on a single charge.

First of the Chevy C/K pickups

Chevrolet's 1960-61 pickups wore a distinctive front end design with two large ovals enclosing the parking lights high atop the hood. The 1960 truck wore a new C/K designation — the C indicated two-wheel drive and the K indicated four-wheel drive.  Chevy used that name until 1999 when it was changed to Silverado. The first generation of the C/K truck ran from 1960 through 1966 with a new drop-center ladder frame allowing the cab to sit lower. This 1960 pickup was discovered in an Illinois salvage yard by Peter Hubbard.

A Chevrolet tribute to iconic Detroit Red Wings 'Winged Wheel' logo

(September 6, 2017) DETROIT — Chevrolet has unveiled the Wheels & Wings: A Chevrolet Tribute to the Iconic Detroit Red Wings “Winged Wheel” Logo sculpture inside the brand’s entrance to the new Little Caesars Arena. 

Measuring 9 feet long and 5 feet high, the sculpture is an original work by Tomas Vitanovsky, a former professional motorcycle stuntman from the Czech Republic who now pieces together discarded parts to create intricate works of art ranging from animals to cars and robots.

2018 Mazda CX-9 three-row crossover receives long list of upgrades

(September 6, 2017) IRVINE, Calif. —  Mazda has added numerous upgrades to the 2018 CX-9 flagship crossover SUV, further strengthening the "Mazda Premium" indulgences it provides. Among the highlights are more features at every price point such as an improved second row for both greater comfort and easier third-row access and greater sound insulation in what is already one of the quietest vehicles in its class.

Mercedes unveils 2018 S-Class coupe and S-Class cabriolet

(September 6, 2017) STUTTGART — As members of the large and successful S-Class family, the coupe and cabriolet will soon benefit from the same extensive innovations that have just been introduced on the sedan. Among the highlights are the extended driver assistance systems, the modern control and display concept with Widescreen Cockpit and new generation of steering wheels, integrated ENERGIZING Comfort control and the latest infotainment generation.

Mercedes-AMG GT family now consists of eight models

(September 5, 2017) AFFALTERBACH, Germany — The AMG GT is the second sports car to be developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG and in less than three years, it has evolved into a family comprising eight models to date. It embodies the essence of the performance and sports car brand.

The front mid-engine concept with transaxle dual-clutch transmission at the rear axle and the intelligent aluminum lightweight construction form the basis for a highly dynamic driving experience.

Marketing campaign developed for freshened 2018 Honda Fit

(September 5, 2017) TORRANCE, Calif. — The freshened 2018 Honda Fit is here and to amplify the Fit's enhanced fun factor, Honda is debuting a new integrated marketing campaign, titled "Fit for Fun," focusing on the fun attributes of the vehicle including: a new Sport trim, striking new colors and enhanced technology including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Primed for annoyance in Toyota's new Prius

By Christopher A. Sawyer
The Virtual Driver

(September 5, 2017) The timing could not have been better. It was time for the annual family get together that kinda sorta takes place at the same time as Cindy’s Uncle Bill’s birthday. His brother Ernie would be there, as would their sister Pat and Cindy’s mom, Helen. It was the perfect backdrop for the car we were driving that week.