2014 Acura MDX Prototype With Front-Wheel Drive

At the Montreal International Auto Show, Acura gave Canadian media their first look at two vehicles that will help redefine Canadians' expectations of what a luxury car can be.

Making its Canadian debut, the 2014 Acura MDX Prototype evokes strength and excitement and once again raises the bar in the luxury SUV category it created. Utilizing "Aero Sculpture" design language impacting form and function, the 2014 MDX Prototype features alluring proportions with smooth, arching body lines matched to an efficient architecture. The new MDX will feature a new direct-injected 3.5 litre V-6 engine that will deliver improved torque and expected class-leading fuel economy.

"Since its introduction, and with every new generation, the MDX has redefined what an SUV can be," said Jerry Chenkin, executive vice president, Acura Canada. "In true Acura fashion, this next model will take the current MDX's inspired performance and move the needle further by improving fuel economy, luxury and comfort. It's a very exciting time for the Acura brand and we're looking forward to continuing the momentum from 2012 into 2013."

Also making its first Canadian appearance was the all-new 2014 Acura RLX - the most powerful, spacious, and technologically-advanced Acura sedan ever. Utilizing an all-new direct-injection engine, lightweight body structure and the first-ever application of Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer , the 2014 RLX delivers a new and dynamic driving experience unlike that of any other luxury performance sedan. Inside, the RLX also features the Canadian introduction of the AcuraLink connectivity system, which delivers a wealth of communication and entertainment features.

"This RLX achieves our goal of beautiful, timeless design with flowing lines that make a statement from any angle," said Chenkin. "Like the new ILX, RDX and MDX, this new RLX represents Acura's return to setting new standards in the luxury market."

The only real change, traction-wise, is that for the first time the MDX will be available in a front-wheel-drive format. This comes in response to requests from Sun Belt dealers.

Otherwise, the '14 MDX gets a full facelift. Its new "Aero Sculpture" styling not only looks good but also improves aerodynamic efficiency by up to 16 percent.

It will be shorter by 1.5 inches and ride on a longer wheelbase, which should enhance ride quality and boost cabin and cargo space. A new chassis is lighter and more rigid and new front and rear suspension designs are expected to produce in a sportier ride-and-handling package.

There's a new engine, a 3.5-liter V-6 that's expected to produce more torque while improving fuel efficiency to class-leading levels.

Acura will load the MDX with a host of safety technologies and expect to see the next generation of Acura's cloud-based AcuraLink connectivity initiative.

2013 Dodge Journey Crew FWD

We completed yesterday (Jan. 25) a little more than a week driving a 2013 Dodge Journey Crew FWD around Central Texas and on a road trip between Austin and Houston, covering a little over 500 miles of driving over the several days.

The 2013 Dodge Journey Crew FWD (front-wheel drive) seven-passenger (three-row) with its 3.6-liter V-6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission met and exceeded all of our expectations as both a city and a highway SUV.
View slideshow: 2013 Dodge Journey Crew SUV delivers exceptional value, safety and performance

Without a doubt, the Dodge Journey is one of the best values in the market and in its segment for a mid-size, seven-passenger crossover SUV vehicle.

With a starting MSRP of $18,995 and features like in-seat and second row in-floor storage bins, fold flat front passenger seat, plus available child booster seats built into the second row seating - the Journey offers exceptional functionality, performance and safety for couples and families at a most affordable price.

Recognition for the 2013 Dodge Journey Crew includes being an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick four years running plus Road and Track Magazine named the 2013 Journey a Top 10 Pick in its 2012 SUV Buyers Guide and Consumers Guide has named it a Best Buy in its segment.

Our test 2013 Dodge Journey Crew FWD had a MSRP of $27,995. The Brilliant Black Crystal Coat exterior paint stunningly enhanced the sculpted and clean yet aggressive lines of this Dodge crossover riding on 19-inch painted aluminum wheels.

The award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, which is standard on Crew and R/T models, produces a best-in-class 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to a very smooth shifting six-speed automatic transmission. This Pentastar V-6 engine was recognized as a Ward's "10 Best Engines" for 2012.

The fuel economy ratings for this engine are 17/25 mpg city/highway. We averaged just under 23 mpg in our 500 miles of driving. With the 20.5 gallon gas tank in the FWD (21.1 in the AWD) this Dodge Journey Crew has a practical range of just over 400 miles.

Inside the Crew was a gorgeous black with subtle uses of accent colors and premium materials. The bucket front seats were black leather trimmed with contrasting stitching as were the second and third row seating.

The accent materials used in dash and door trims were exceptional in touch, texture and color. The trim accents in the dash and surrounding other cabin features was in a brushed nickel color hard surface material that was used sparingly highlighting the interior leather styling. Spot touches of chrome were added for effect.

Continuing on the inside, this 2013 Dodge Journey Crew had heated front seats and heated leather wrapped steering wheel with mounted audio controls and a leather wrapped shift knob.

The driver seating was six-way power with power four-way lumbar adjust. An optional Flexible Seating Group package ($1,150) added second row 40/60 seating with Tilt and Slide feature for access to the fold flat, reclining 50/50 third-row seating. Three zone Automatic Temperature Control was included in this package.

It should be noted that the LED lighting in each of the second and third row control modules was very good for all rows including the cargo area behind the third row.

The Navigation and Sound Group Package ($995) included the ParkSense Rear Park Assist System, ParkView Rear Backup Camera and universal garage door opener. The Dodge Uconnect 8.4N AM/FM/SAT/NAV system with its exceptional 8.4-inch touch screen provided the very good Garmin Navigation System and the SiriusXM Satellite Radio and RealTime Traffic Service. The audio portion of the system was powered by a 368-Watt amplifier through six premium speakers with a subwoofer ($395).

The available second row seating with the Integrated Child Booster seats (both sides) was $225.

Additional features of this well equipped Dodge Journey Crew included: remote start, keyless entry and push button start, audio jack for mobile devices, power windows and tilt/telescoping steering wheel, front and rear floor mats, interior rear observation mirror, auto dimming rear view mirror with microphone, 12-Volt DC power outlets front and rear, 115-Volt power outlet and rear deck cargo net.

The tire pressure monitoring display appears in the standard full color display EVIC (Vehicle Information Center) positioned in the center of the gauge cluster. Power heated exterior mirrors with fold-away feature, fog lamps, automatic headlamps, bright door handles and dual chrome exhaust tips complete the Journey Crew.

As driven, this 2013 Dodge Journey Crew FWD was $31,755 including destination charge.

This 2013 Dodge Journey Crew was very quiet and smooth riding with solid performance and handling in all traffic and road conditions. It is solidly an option any family, young couple or older couple with grandchildren should consider for the perfect SUV without breaking the bank.

The 2013 Dodge Journey is available in AVP, SE, SXT, Crew and R/T models with MSRP of $18,995 to $28,995.

The Journey AVP, SE and SXT models are powered by a 2.4-liter 16-valve DOHC four-cylinder engine that produces 173 horsepower and 166 lb.-ft. of torque, linked to a four-speed automatic transmission. This four-cylinder engine delivers 26 mpg on the highway.

The V-6 power train is optional on the SXT and standard on the Crew and R/T. Journey is also available in AWD (all-wheel drive) on the SXT, Crew and R/T models and a limited capacity (2,500 pounds) towing package is available.

2013 New Audi Allroad

The German Audi allroad returns to the United States for the first time since 2005 as a roomy car-like crossover vehicle. Or call it an oversized station wagon, if you like.

Despite its German engineering, I found during a media preview of the allroad near Denver that this vehicle has a very American feel. For instance, while precise, the electromechanical steering almost feels a little too light.

Some may like that feel, but those looking for a firmer "German feel" may look elsewhere-although the nicely built allroad is plenty solid, in the best German tradition.

The allroad may look much like an off-road vehicle, but isn't. Still, it easily tackles rough roads with its supple, all-independent suspension and Audi's superior and standard all-wheel-drive system.

Three trim levels start with the base $39,600 Premium version. A $42,900 Premium Plus version is in the middle and the $48,800 Prestige trim level is at the top.

All trims are well-equipped, but there are attractive options. They include keyless start, navigation system, upscale sound system and folding side mirrors. The power tailgate is handy. While 18-inch wheels are standard, 19-inch wheels are optional.

Available safety features include a rearview camera with an acoustic rear warning system and adaptive cruise control.

The allroad has a distinctive, exclusive "waterfall" grille that looks better than some Audi grilles and there are also stainless steel skid plates and side sills. The dual exhaust tips look sexy.

The 2013 allroad is nearly an inch wider, 2.3 inches taller and has 1.5 inches of greater ground clearance than the previous allroad, which wasn't successful in America. It's almost as easy to get in and out as with a sedan. Outside door handles are large, and the allroad has a fairly low floor.

There is plenty of room up front in the quiet interior's large supportive seats-and also good room for two tall adults in the rear. Bright sunlight doesn't wash out the gauges, and conveniently placed dashboard controls can be quickly used, although some are on the small side.

All doors have storage pockets and front/rear cupholders are nicely positioned. The rear pull-out plastic ones (from the center armrest) don't feel flimsy, as they do on many vehicles.

The cargo compartment is spacious, with a low, wide opening. Split rear seatbacks easily flip forward and sit flat to expand the cargo area to 50.5 cubic feet.

The new allroad also has a longer (110.4-inch) wheelbase for ride comfort and is 185.9 inches long overall.

This Audi is no lightweight, at 3,891 pounds. But its turbocharged 2-liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine generates 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Torque starts at only 1,500 rpm for good low-speed response.

Audi says the allroad's 0-60 mph time is 6.5 seconds, although my test allroad didn't feel quite that fast with two occupants and no cargo. Audi says it can hit 130 mph. I found the allroad is a "fooler" because it easily sneaks up to cruising speeds of 80-85 mph when you think you're only doing 65-70 mph.

The smooth engine works with an effective eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission that can be manually shifted.

Estimated fuel economy is average for this type of vehicle. It's rated at 20 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on highways. Fuel capacity is 16.9 gallons, and premium fuel is recommended.

Handling proved stable on winding roads, helped by an electronic stability control system. Braking was sure, with all-disc anti-lock brakes featuring electronic brake force distribution and hydraulic brake assist to allow surer emergency stops. The brake pedal has a linear action for consistently smooth stops.

The hood easily swings open via a hydraulic strut, but a few fluid filler areas must be reached from the side of the engine compartment, which is largely filled with a large engine cover. However, the engine oil filler area is put squarely in front of the engine, and that's the one most persons will use.

Once largely ignored in America, Audi is coming up fast here as a prestigious, high-tech rival of top-line European vehicles. The new allroad should draw considerably more Americans to this brand.

More Pictures of 2013 Audi Allroad

2012 Subaru Impreza WRX Club Spec Limited Edition

The Subaru WRX Club Spec limited edition has been revealed ahead of its Australian release in August.

Available in either statement-making Tangerine orange or Black paint, the 300 WRX Club Specs - offered only as a sedan with a manual transmission - include black door mirrors, black Subaru Tecnica International (STI) rear spoiler, black 17-inch alloy wheels and black front guard WRX logo.

Inside, leather trim is highlighted by orange-stitched WRX logos on the front seats of Tangerine cars, with black stitching on the seats and steering wheel. Black cars receive the standard car's red stitching highlights.

A numbered interior Club Spec badge is also matched by an exterior Club Spec badge, though further exclusivity is possible with the addition of an STI package that includes a front spoiler lower lip, short-throw gear shift kit and adjustable strut-tower brace. The STI pack (normally $2100) is available on the Club Spec Limited Edition for the reduced price of $1000.

The purely aesthetic changes see the Subaru WRX Club Spec limited edition priced at $41,490 - $1500 more than the entry-level 195kW/343Nm Subaru WRX.

More Pictures of 2012 Subaru WRX Club Spec Limited Edition

Chevrolet unveils three Corvettes for SEMA

Corvette Stingray Convertible Atlantic concept 04.11.2013

Models draw inspiration from private jets and Gran Turismo 6

Chevrolet has announced plans to introduce three different Corvette concepts at the SEMA Motor Show.

First up, the Gran Turismo concept pays tribute to Gran Turismo's 15th anniversary and features a carbon fiber body kit that includes a front splitter, a ventilated fiber hood and aerodynamic side skirts. The model also has yellow-tinted headlights, a revised grille, custom exhaust tips and Gran Turismo-inspired graphics.

The cabin boasts Competition Sport seats, racing harnesses and a flat-bottom steering wheel.

Next up, the Atlantic Convertible concept has "sophisticated styling enhancements resembling the details and refinement of a private jet." As a result, the model comes nicely equipped with a front splitter, extended side skirts and a sportier diffuser. Other highlights include a suede-wrapped interior, a custom luggage set and 19- / 20-inch alloy wheels.

Last but not least, the Pacific Coupe concept is based on the Z51 coupe and features a satin-black front splitter, a carbon fiber hood and rocker extensions. The car also has "Carbon Flash" graphics and 19- / 20-inch alloy wheels.

Interior changes are limited but the coupe has Competition Sport seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel and carbon fiber trim.

Check out the press release for additional information

BMW-Toyota sports car will be a Lexus LFA successor - report

Lexus LFA Nurburgring Edition 07.09.2011

Could be based on the BMW i8

According to a recent report, the jointly-developed BMW-Toyota sports car will be a Lexus LFA successor.

Citing an anonymous source, Motoring says the companies have finally agreed on a model and it will be a two-door supercar with a hybrid powertrain. There's no word on specifications but the website speculates the car could use a BMW-sourced twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 and one of Toyota's hybrid systems.

Little else is known about the car but the source said Toyota is testing the i8 to determine if its carbon fiber chassis could underpin the upcoming supercar.

If everything pans out, the model could cost in excess of $300,000 AUD ($284,730 / €210,960 / £178,460).

New 2012 Kia Optima Si

With the Optima Si, Kia is targeting those who want a European style car without the hefty price tag.

And it seems to have the style to impress, with one observer christening our test car "a bad boy". Okay, that might be stretching things a bit too far, but even the base model Optima Si is light years away from the Kia we used to know.

Priced from $30,490 the entry level Si is a significant $6500 less than the $36,990 Platinum model. The price point is also slightly cheaper than the competitors: Hyundai i45 Active from $31,090 and Honda Accord Euro from $32,640.

The Si is under a generous five year warranty with a features list that includes Bluetooth connectivity, MP3 compatible CD player, steering wheel mounted audio controls, dual-zone climate control, auto door lock/unlock, auto headlamps and front fog lamps.

However at this level you get 17-in alloys and smaller discs rather than the 18s and larger ones on the Platinum spec. The only extra available on the base model is metallic paint priced at $450.

The Kia Optima gets a 2.4-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine paired with outputs of 148kW of power at 6300 revs and 250Nm of torque at 4250 revs delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed sports automatic.

The Optima's official fuel consumption is 7.9 L/100km with 189 CO2 emissions. The specs are competitive against rivals like Honda Accord Euro - which comes close but with less torque at 230Nm.

The spacious interior combines sport styling with comfort, meaning there's plenty of room for four or five adults. The cabin plastics and dashboard are attractive and well-designed and the Si also comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The boot is large enough for everyday life with a capacity of 505 litres, and that can be increased by dropping the rear seats.

It was a bit disappointing to find the seats are leather-trimmed with 'pleather bolsters', rather than the real thing. The base model also doesn't offer ventilated driver's seat or a panoramic sunroof. However, these are more compromises in order to keep the 2.4 litre engine rather than move to a smaller one at this price.

The chrome radiator grille, chrome strips over the back bonnet and doors make the exterior aesthetically striking. But sports car lovers should be aware that the base model Si doesn't come with a sports bumper, LED lights or HID headlights. Even with all these dropped features, the Optima Si is a handsome thing.

The Si has a 5-Star ANCAP crash rating, and has six airbags, anti-skid brakes with electronic helpers, stability control, hill-start assist, speed sensing auto door lock, child proof rear door locks and impact sensing auto door unlocking.

Visibility is good, and the reverse parking sensors and the rear view camera, wide-angle mirror display and parking guidelines make city parking a hell of a lot easier than in some rivals.

Kia has made an effort to make the Optima Si as inviting as possible. Cabin space is impressive with plenty of legroom, comfy seats, smooth pedal feel and adjustable steering. Tall drivers and passengers will appreciate the generous head and legroom in the front and the rear, as well as the rear door apertures.

The dashboard is tilted logically towards the driver and the cruise control and audio buttons on the steering wheel are conveniently placed. The Si comes with speed dependent volume control, however it wasn't a noticeable feature.

The Si was a surprisingly quiet ride with hardly any wind or road noise. The six-speed auto served well through heavy stop start traffic in the city. But the Si felt a bit gutless when facing a climb, with the automatic transmission struggling to find the right gear.

Once you're on the open road you'll want to shift into Sport mode to really get the most out of the car. While the Si is far from a sporty, steering was responsive and well-weighted, with more grip than expected from a front wheel drive. The Si turned corners with ease and the acceleration was more than sufficient for a vehicle of this size. Overall, the Si was extremely easy to drive but may lean to the dull side for some drivers.

More Pictures of New 2012 Kia Optima Si