October 2020

Volvo's accident research team celebrates 50th anniversary

(October 31, 2020) At Volvo Cars, they are known as the company’s in-house detectives. Yet they could also be called the Swedish car maker’s own CSI team, with a little twist on the acronym of TV fame. The crash scene investigators of the Volvo Car Accident Research Team, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, are ready around the clock to make sure that Volvo Cars learns from real-life accidents and constantly improves its cars.

2021 Jeep Gladiator — Now with unique Willys edition

(November 1, 2020) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — The Jeep brand is introducing a new edition of the 2021 Jeep Gladiator in the form of the Willys models, delivering a new level of personalized content for a distinct appearance that is combined with legendary Jeep 4x4 capability. Jeep Gladiator Willys models are available for ordering and in Jeep showrooms now with a starting price of $36,760 including a  $1,495 destination charge.

All-new 2021 Toyota Sienna minivan hits dealerships next week

(October 31, 2020) PLANO, Texas  — Aiming to redefine the segment, the fourth generation Toyota Sienna reimagines the minivan to support a wider array of life stages and activities.  With a standard hybrid powertrain across all trims and an array of new tech and amenities, the 2021 Toyota Sienna raises the bar for style, safety, comfort, versatility and fuel efficiency in its segment. It will reach Toyota showrooms across the country during November.

Chevrolet to preview 1977 K5 Blazer converted to all-electric at SEMA360

(October 30, 2020) DETROIT — At SEMA360 Nov. 2-6, Chevrolet will showcase a 1977 K5 Blazer converted to all-electric propulsion. The K5 Blazer-E is a functional proof of concept of the upcoming Electric Connect and Cruise package Chevrolet Performance plans to sell in the second half of 2021. During the virtual event, Chevrolet Performance will survey SEMA members interested in building their own electric projects to help finalize Chevrolet’s initial eCrate offering.

Ford to unveil electric E-Transit cargo van on Nov. 12

(October 30, 2020) On Nov.12, Ford officially unveils the zero-emission, all-electric E-Transit — a new version of the world’s best-selling cargo van. And it’s arriving at a time when Americans — and others around the globe — are ready to embrace the potential of green delivery.

Would you like a seat with that car?

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DRIVER'S SIDE DIATRIBE
By Al Vinikour    

My family tree does not contain many, if any members who had long — or even normal-length legs. Truth be told, if we were dogs we’d be Welsh Corgis (and my family left the Ukraine in the 19th century for the gold-lined streets of Indiana.) There’s absolutely no reason to short-sheet the front seat of a vehicle by installing bottom cushions whose end catches me at mid-thigh. If it catches me at mid-thigh then it would be a tushy rub for someone with normal-length femurs.

Genesis reveals its second SUV — The GV70

(October 30, 2020) SEOUL, Korea — Genesis has officially revealed the exterior and interior of the GV70. The much-anticipated GV70 becomes the fifth model in the Genesis lineup, joining the G70, G80 and G90 sedans, and the GV80 mid-luxury SUV. Like other models in the lineup, the GV70 will be based on the rear-wheel-drive platform. All-wheel drive will also be available. The “G” in GV70 represents Genesis, while the “V” refers to the versatility that only a Genesis SUV can offer.

2021 Ford Edge gets new technology, standard 12-inch center screen

(October 29, 2020) DEARBORN, Mich.  — The 2021 Ford Edge and performance-oriented Edge ST add smart new technologies, including a new standard largest-in-class 12-inch size center screen, all-new SYNC 4A with connected built-in navigation and cloud connectivity with conversational voice recognition, plus refinements to Edge’s interior and exterior design.

“Ford Edge is the choice for tech-savvy customers on the go,” said Angela Cascaden, Edge marketing manager. “It offers standard Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies with driver assist features. And with SYNC 4A with over-the-air updates, customers can get the latest tech and services from Ford at any time — no dealership visit required.”

Audi sets starting price for 2021 A6 Sport at $56,445

(October 29, 2020) HERNDON, Va. — Audi has announced a mid-model year refresh for the entry-point to the A6 model line, the 2021 A6 Sport 45 TFSI. The arrival of this new variant brings notable standard equipment and package enhancements. The A6 Sport maintains benchmark connectivity services, MMI Navigation and advanced driver assistance systems. The entry A6 Sport will begin at $56,445 including destination charge.

Mercedes-Benz, Aston Martin announce extension of partnership

(October 28, 2020) STUTTGART, Germany Stuttgart — Mercedes-Benz AG and Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings (Aston Martin) have announced a new strategic technology agreement and an enhanced partnership. The new agreement will see Mercedes-Benz AG grant access to a range of advanced Mercedes-Benz technologies, including next generation hybrid and electric powertrains, as well as other vehicle components and systems.