September 2020

LA Auto Show moved from November 2020 to May 2021

(September 7, 2020) LOS ANGELES — The LA Auto Show held annually at the Los Angeles Convention Center will move six months into the spring of 2021. Originally planned for Nov. 20-29, the public show will now be held on May 21-31, 2021. Press Days (also known as AutoMobility LA) have been rescheduled to May 19-20, 2021.

"We are appreciative for the continued support from the LA Convention Center, the City of Los Angeles and all of our automotive partners," said Lisa Kaz CEO of the LA Auto Show.

Widebody Package now available on additional Dodge Challenger vehicles

(September 7, 2020) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Dodge is literally expanding the availability of its Widebody Package, bringing it to the Challenger R/T Scat Pack Shaker and T/A 392 for the 2021 model year.
 
“The Widebody on Charger and Challenger continues to gain traction, making way for wider wheels and tires, which means more grip and faster times at the drag strip,” said Tim Kuniskis, global head of Dodge, SRT – North America.

16-year-old in Porsche 718 sets world record for fastest vehicle slalom

(September 7, 2020) ATLANTA — Porsche Cars North America, in support of Chloe Chambers, has announced a new Guinness World Records achievement for the Fastest Vehicle Slalom. Sixteen-year-old Chambers achieved the 47.45-second run on Aug. 21, setting a new benchmark pace in an exercise that tests both driver and vehicle. She achieved this feat behind the wheel of a 2020 Porsche 718 Spyder, which was completely stock, right down to its tires.

Ordering opens for refreshed 2021 Chrysler Pacific; AWD now available

(September 6, 2020) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Ordering is now open for the refreshed 2021 Chrysler Pacifica, giving families the chance to bring home the most advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system in its class, up to 80 MPGe with the first hybrid powertrain in the segment, more standard safety features, a refreshed exterior and interior and upgraded technology, such as the new Uconnect 5 system, at a starting U.S. manufacturer’s suggested retail price of  $36,540 including destination charge. AWD is available at a starting U.S. price is $39,535.

Kia, Hyundai recalling 641,575 vehicles over leaks that could cause fire

(September 5, 2020) Kia Motors America and Hyundai Motor America are recalling 641,575 vehicles because of the possibility of leaking brake fluid that can lead to fires. The recalled U.S. vehicles are 283,803 Kia Optima sedans from the 2013-15 model years, 156,567 Kia Sorento crossovers from 2014-15 and 151,205 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport crossovers from 2013-15. The recall also includes 52,000 2013-15 Santa Fe Sport crossovers in Canada.

Jeep Wrangler to get plug-in hybrid version with 375 hp

(September 5, 2020) AUBUN HILLS, Mich. — The Jeep brand has introduced its new Wrangler 4xe, marking the arrival of the most capable, technically advanced and eco-friendly Wrangler ever. Jeep Wrangler 4xe models will be available in Europe, China and the United States by early 2021. The Jeep Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe models — introduced last year in Geneva — began arriving in Europe this summer. The new Jeep 4xe models follow the introduction of the Jeep Grand Commander PHEV in China last year.

Black Line Special Edition added to 2021 Lexus RC lineup

(September 4, 2020) PLANO, Texas — For 2021 the Lexus RC sports coupe adds the RC Black Line Special Edition to its lineup, offering Lexus owners a new way to express their bravura. For added peace of mind and convenience, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is now standard across the entire RC range.

Since its introduction in 2014, the RC has played a major role in expressing Lexus’ commitment to delivering an emotional driving experience. Thanks to its aggressive styling and versatile driving character, the RC has become a highly sought-after coupe by enthusiasts who value performance and world-class craftsmanship.

Who sets speed limits...Beavis & Butthead?

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DRIVER'S SIDE DIATRIBE
By Al Vinikour     

I live in a state where drivers show little if any regard for speed limits. Speed limit signs are like figuring tips on restaurant checks…add 15%-20%. Why does this nation have one flag, one national anthem and even a self-proscribed national pastime…but yet we seem to have 50 different plans for speed limits? Whatever happened to consistency?

Grand Wagoneer Concept marks the rebirth of an American icon

(September 4, 2020) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — An all-new Grand Wagoneer Concept — introduced Thursday in Detroit — marks the rebirth of a classic and premium American icon, providing a vision of what the modern expression of the original, ultimate, premium SUV can be. The  Grand Wagoneer Concept’s debut instantly positions the storied Wagoneer name as a premium extension of the Jeep brand. Wagoneer will define “American Premium” while delivering a unique and unprecedented customer experience.

Lucid Air develops 1,080 horsepower; runs 9.9 second quarter mile

(September 3, 2020) NEWARK, Calif. — Lucid Motors, which seeks to set new standards for sustainable transportation with its advanced luxury EVs, has announced details of the proprietary, in-house developed electric drivetrain that will power the forthcoming pure-electric luxury Lucid Air and allow it to become the instant class leader in a number of key performance and efficiency metrics.