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2019 Detroit Motor Show Preview: What To Expect

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The 2019 North American International Auto Show, also referred to as the 2019 Detroit Motor Show is just around the corner. In fact, it begins Monday, January 14th and runs through Sunday, January 27th this year. As with all the major auto shows, there’s a lot to look forward to.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of the most anticipated events happening this year. While we don’t yet know everything to expect, there’s plenty to get excited about.

2019 Detroit Motor ShowFord Mustang Shelby GT500

This supercharged 5.2-liter V8 muscle car produces about 700 horsepower. This makes it one of the most powerful road-legal vehicles that Ford ever offered.

It’s been co-engineered with Shelby, so you know it has the high-performance features that any muscle car enthusiast hopes for.

2019 Toyota Supra - left side view
Balise Toyota

Toyota Supra

Of course, most people are already talking about the Toyota Supra debut at the 2019 Detroit Motor Show. It was produced alongside the BMW Z4 and is the first since 2002. It will come complete with a 3.0-liter straight-six engine that puts out 340 horsepower.

Pictures of the car have been leaked online, but we will have the first chance to see it in person at the auto show.

Subaru WRX STI S209 - left rear view
The Drive

Subaru WRX STI S209

Subaru Tecnica International, a Japanese firm, is preparing to unveil the WRX STI S209 this year. We’ve only seen a teaser view and we have limited details at this time. The previous generation, S208 was launched back in 2017 and featured a 2.0-liter flat-four engine with 324 horsepower.

Infiniti Electric SUV - 2019 Detroit Auto Show
Infiniti

Infiniti Electric SUV

How fitting is it that Infiniti was first launched in 1989. This marks the 30th anniversary of the brand. To celebrate, they plan to debut their first electric SUV concept.

This SUV might match the size of a BMW X1, but we’ve only seen a darkened image for now.

Kia Telluride - drivers side view
Kia

Kia Telluride

We are about to view the production model Kia Telluride. This large SUV will hold seven passengers and is based on the concept unveiled in 2016.

Lexus RC F Track Edition - rear wing
Lexus

Lexus RC F Track Edition

Lexus also has something in store to celebrate the 30th anniversary. This year, they will debut the RC F Track Edition, their performance-focused model. We’ve already spotted the large carbon fiber rear wing and think it could just rival the BMW M4 CS.

2019 Cadillac XT6 - Camo
Motor1

Cadillac XT6

Don’t forget about GM. They also plan to launch their large XT6 SUV. We won’t see it for sale until 2020, but it’s based on the Traverse platform.

More Happening at the 2019 Detroit Motor Show

Of course, this is strictly a sampling of what we can expect during the 2019 Detroit Motor Show. Starting January 14th, we will offer full coverage of what’s hot and what’s not during the Detroit Auto Show. Don’t forget that in February, we will also have the 2019 Chicago Auto Show to report from.

VW Cargo e-Bike Features 463-Pound Payload

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Continuing with our 2018 LA Auto Show coverage, we have this little VW Cargo e-Bike to share with you. It’s the automaker’s smallest commercial vehicle ever and might revolutionize the way things get done in the city. It’s also their first e-bike.

VW Cargo e-Bike
VW

Check Out the VW Cargo e-Bike

Prior to the Los Angeles debut, it was first shown off at the 2018 IAA Commercial Vehicle Show held in Hanover. It’s specifically designed for downtown usage. We also see a use for it in production plants, hotels and certain businesses. As you can see, there really is an endless opportunity available for a vehicle like this.

This Volkswagen Cargo e-Bike is emissions-free and can reach places a typical delivery truck can’t. That’s what makes it ideal for use in pedestrian-only centers. The bike features two wheels located in the front and a load platform positioned low between them. Then, it features a cargo box mounted on the platform. Surprisingly, this box has a storage volume of 17.7 cubic feet.

What’s most remarkable about the e-Bike is how much it can carry. In fact, with the rider included, it will hold 463 pounds. Plus, with the tilt-compensation technology, the platform stays horizontal through turns. This means that nothing harms the goods in transport.

The power comes from a 250-watt 48-volt electric motor. Because of this, the rider easily pedals up to 15.5 mph. At the same time, the energy is supplied through a 500 Wh lithium-ion battery which propels this bike to travel 62 miles per charge.

As you can tell, it’s also quite lightweight. At just 88.1 pounds, it feels like you’re driving a bicycle. On top of that, the long wheelbase and lower center of gravity enables the bike to offer a higher level of rollover safety than you would expect.

We expect the arrival of the VW Cargo e-Bike on the market in 2019 after being produced in Germany.

Volkswagen at the LA Auto Show

VW is featuring several other automobiles at the show. Not only can see the Cargo e-Bike, but you have access to several other vehicles.

Now is the time to head to the show and see what’s going on. Stay tuned to Car Blog Writers for all the latest news from LA.

2019 Mazda3 Debuts at 2018 LA Auto Show

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We’ve been fans of the 2019 Mazda3 since we first saw its teaser image. After seeing it at the 2018 LA Auto Show, we can’t help but get more excited.

2019 Mazda3
Mazda

What’s So Great about the 2019 Mazda3?

This car was inspired by the Mazda Kai Concept, so there’s simply no way the automaker could have gone wrong with the styling. Both the hatchback and sedan feature designs that evolved from their predecessors. Overall, we find ourselves drawn to the hatchback model because it seems to capture the true Kai essence, but that wouldn’t stop us from driving the sedan as well.

On top of that, it features a minimalist interior the comes with a sharp-looking dashboard. The competitors are going to have a tough time competing with this in relation to its appeal. It does also have available all-wheel drive. We don’t know the exact specs as of yet, but Mazda has confirmed a 1.5-liter, 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter gas engine plus a 1.8-liter diesel. Also, the SkyActiv-X engine will pair with their new M Hybrid system.

SkyActiv-X

If you haven’t heard about the SkyActiv-X system, it featured an SCCI (Spark-Controlled Compression Ignition) which combines diesel efficiency with gas-engine performance. In its debut with the Madza3, it will come with front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam. This allows the 2019 Mazda3 to turn, accelerate or brake any way it pleases.

Mazda at the LA Auto Show

Mazda is featuring several other automobiles at the show. You can see the Mazda3 plus four more vehicles.

  • Mazda6 Signature
  • MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring
  • CX-9 Signature
  • CX-3 Grand Touring

If you haven’t made your way to the show yet, now is your chance. Then, you can decide for yourself if you prefer the Mazda3 sedan or hatchback. Stay tuned to Car Blog Writers for more news from LA.

Believe in the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Sleigh

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Dodge may not have anything new to show its customers during the 2018 LA Auto Show, but they made a big impression modifying a fan favorite. On display this year is a Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Sleigh.

SRT Hellcat Redeye Sleigh
FCA

Santa Drives the SRT Hellcat Redeye Sleigh

This muscle sleigh gets rid of the need for reindeer with its 797 horsepower. It was created specifically for the year-end commercial we told you about last month. There are some significant modifications to this powerhouse. First, the roof and doors are removed. Then, the windshield got cut in half and sleigh tracks are where the wheels once were.

It also features special exhaust tips, six-passenger seating and six-piston Brembo brakes. Considering elves are so much smaller than people, it’s probably possible to fix seven inside instead.

Of course, you can’t physically purchase this Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye sleigh, but we know you want to. Dodge is happy, however, to sell you t-shirts promoting it on their website. We expect this means more holiday merchandise is following right behind.

We are also actively waiting the arrival of a new social media series chronicling the Santa sleigh overhaul. This series will reveal the features in further detail and talk about the reasoning behind them.

Other Happenings at the Show

While Dodge may not have a lot going on at the show, FCA isn’t holding back. Of course, most people are busy talking about the 2020 Jeep Gladiator, but there’s plenty of other sights to see. If you are heading to the show, make sure you check out these FCA vehicles as well:

  • Fiat 500X
  • RAM 2500 Laramie Sport
  • Fiat 500 Turbo
  • RAM 1500 Big Horn
  • Fiat 500e Lounge
  • RAM 5500 SLT
  • RAM 3500 Limited Longhorn
  • Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Touring S
  • Jeep Compass Limited
  • Jeep Renegade Limited
  • Chrysler 300S
  • RAM 3500 Longhorn Rodeo
  • RAM ProMaster City
  • Chrysler 300C Platinum
  • RAM 2500 Power Wagon
  • Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited
  • RAM ProMaster Cargo 159″
  • Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk
  • Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited
  • Dodge Durango R/T
  • Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack
  • and so much more!

Stay tuned to Car Blog Writers for even more news from the auto show.

2020 Jeep Gladiator Makes Its LA Auto Show Debut

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Are you tired of waiting for the new Jeep truck? So are we! The wait is officially over now that the 2020 Jeep Gladiator has debuted at the 2018 LA Auto Show.

2020 Jeep Gladiator
FCA

Worth Waiting For?

Now that the 2020 Jeep Gladiator made it into the market, it ends two and a half decades without a Jeep pickup truck. It comes with several options that should make fans pretty excited.

Under its hood, you’ll find the 3.6-liter V6 engine standard. There’s also the option of adding a 3.0-liter Ecodiesel V6 paired with an eight-speed automatic or choose the six-speed manual transmission instead. Supposedly, it should come with 7,650 pounds of towing capacity, which isn’t too shabby!

This Jeep truck still utilizes doors that come off plus there’s a soft top option. If you add on the Rubicon package, you’ll have more off-road fun. This helps drivers feel like it’s a typical Jeep 4×4.

Just like with the Wrangler, this Gladiator comes with many driver assistance features. These include blind-spot monitoring, a rear backup camera, rear cross path detection, adaptive cruise control plus an off-road camera. Inside the cabin, you have access to one of the three UConnect infotainment packages which include either the 5, 7 or 8.4-inch screens.

Now that we know the official name of the Jeep pickup truck and we’ve gotten to see it, the excitement finally became a reality. If you want to look at it for yourself – make sure you get to the LA Auto Show.

Other Than The 2020 Jeep Gladiator

If you want to see some other amazing displays at the show, here are a few you’ll want to watch for.

  • 2019 Nissan Maxima
  • 2020 Kia Soul
  • Audi E-Tron Concept
  • 2020 Mercedes AMG-GT R Pro
  • Cadillac Escalade Sport Edition
  • 2020 Hyundai Palisade
  • 2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
  • and so much more!

Let us know what you’re most excited about and then stay with us at Car Blog Writers for all the latest updates from the event.

2018 LA Auto Show: What to Expect

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We are expecting multiple concepts and new model premieres at the upcoming 2018 LA Auto Show. The event begins on November 30th and we are already receiving lots of news about vehicles we can’t wait to see. Not only are we thrilled to be blogging this year through the event, but we’ve got the list of some things to watch for.

Not everyone is in the position to travel out to LA for an auto show. Because of this, we’ve decided to bring all the details straight to you.

2018 LA Auto Show
Nissan

2018 LA Auto Show Debuts

Audi e-Tron GT Concept – prototype to rival the Tesla Model S. It’s due out in 2020.

BMW 3 Series G20 – preview the newest variant in this sedan range. This is the first of many BMW models we expect to see.

BMW 8 Series Convertible – will come with the same engine as the BMW 8 Series Coupe.

BMW iNext Concept – we’ve seen the electric crossover so this will be the public debut.

BWW M340i xDrive – powered by a turbocharged six-cylinder engine that features 374 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.

BMW X7 – we expect to see the first versions of this large SUV including the xDrive50d and xDrive 40i.

Hyundai Palisade – all-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive SUV that looks similar to the Kia Telluride.

Jeep Gladiator – this might be the name for the new Jeep pickup truck which will make its world debut at the show. There’s been a lot of speculation regarding this new addition, so we simply can’t wait to find out all the details.

Kia Soul EV – supposably comes with the same 150 mile and 301-mile range as the Niro EV.

Lincoln Aviator – the prototype was unveiled at the March auto show, but we’ll see the pre-production model before its debut next year.

Mazda 3 – features the SkyActiv2 architecture and is the start of the new line of Mazdas.

Nissan Maxima – because it’s redesigned for the 2019 year, we expect full details at the show.

Porsche 911 – powered by a turbo H6 engine and a PHEV expected in 2020.

Porsche Panamera – view the GTS and Sport Turismo GTS, powered by a 460 horsepower biturbo 4.0-liter V8 engine.

Rivian SUV & pick-up – a preview of the electric vehicle prototypes that will be built in the former Mitsubishi plant in Illinois.

Volvo S60 – first world debut of this sedan.

Going to the Show?

Will you be attending the 2018 LA Auto Show? It’s a great opportunity for the entire family to enjoy some entertainment and check out the latest in the automobile world. If you can’t make it this year, we will be providing full coverage. Given that, you can get your new car fix simply by visiting us.

2018 SEMA Highlights: The Best Cars Worth Noticing

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The 2018 SEMA show is underway in Las Vegas, and many performance cars have shown up. All the reputable aftermarket companies are on-site to show off their parts. It’s also the place where many automakers exhibit their own upgrades and aftermarket options. It takes a lot to get noticed during the event, so exhibits need to stand out. For those of you that aren’t able to attend this year, we’re bringing the 2018 SEMA Highlights to you.

2018 SEMA highlights
Power & Performance Magazine

Ford Mustang Series 1

When you go to SEMA, you expect to see plenty of modified Mustangs. The official Ford show car was created this year by RTR Vehicles. Their Mustang Series 1 features a Gurney flap-style spoiler, 19-inch wheels, side skirts, front splitter, and the RTR grille with LED lights. Expect to see 500 units of the Mustang Series 1 produced.

Audi RS5-R and SQ5 Widebody

Audi RS5-R and SQ5 Widebody
Motor1

You won’t just see American companies at SEMA. Abt, a German tuner is also on-site with two of their cars. You can see the Audi RS5-R on display with 503 horsepower, 21-inch wheels, and a carbon-fiber tipped exhaust. They also have an SQ5 Widebody which has 22-inch wheels, wide arches, and an aero kit.

Dodge Challenger SRT Demon

Dodge Challenger SRT Demon - driver side front view
TheDrive

As if the Challenger wasn’t exciting enough, Speedkore took the vehicle and bumped it up a notch. The SRT Demon on display features 1200 horsepower, which is mind-blowing in itself. All of the exterior bodywork was replaced with carbon fiber panels and then they also swapped out the supercharger for two turbochargers instead. This makes the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye look like your typical Sunday afternoon driver.

Ford F-150

Ford F-150 Hoonitruck - front view
Motor1

While there are tons of pickup trucks at SEMA, the Hoonitruck Ford F-150 takes the cake. The F-150 receives its power from the same V6 engine as the Ford GT Superformance, except it produces 914 horsepower instead of 647. Expect to see it in Ken Block’s Gymkhana films.

Custom Lexus

Lexus RC 350 F Sport - right front view
Tech A Peek

Lexus is also on-site with some customizations. They brought the RC 350 F Sport Cross Country which sits lower than normal. They also included geometric Y-spoke wheels and Nitto performance tires. Lexus also showcased the LS, a big sedan, but gave it a menacing look with the additional bodywork, satin black wheels, and grey paint job.

Ford GT

2019 Ford GT Carbon Series - passenger side view
Motor Trend

Sema is also the platform for Ford to showcase their GT Carbon Edition. It’s a limited-edition and much lighter than the original, thanks to the carbon fiber parts and wheels.

2018 SEMA Highlights

Of course, our 2018 SEMA highlights don’t offer nearly enough of the excitement. This is one show you have to attend for yourself to fully grasp the gravity of amazing vehicles on display.

2018 Orange County Auto Show Highlights

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During the 2018 Orange County Auto Show, a lot of newer models were featured. This prestigious event was held in Anaheim, California from October 4th through 7th. It was just across the street from Disneyland and occurred at the Anaheim Convention Center. In total, there were more than 600 vehicles on display from 35 different manufacturers. We’ll highlight the best of the best at this year’s 2018 Orange County Auto Show.

2019 Audi e-Tron Quattro

2019 Audi e-Tron Quattro - 2018 Orange County Auto Show
Audi

Just like at the Paris Motor Show, the 2019 Audi e-Tron Quattro was on display. It is the first all-electric Audi SUV and guaranteed to make a notable appearance into the market. Expect to see many more of them on the road soon.

2018 BMW 530e Plug-In Hybrid

2018 BMW 530e Plug-In Hybrid - front view
BMWBlog

Another popular exhibit was the plug-in hybrid BMW. This vehicle adds some substantial torque for a lower price increase than you would expect. It also features improved balance but it’s less powerful than the previous ActiveHybrid.

Chevrolet

2019 Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss
Chevrolet

This automaker didn’t hold back with their offerings this year. They had a 2019 Chevrolet Blazer, 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and 2019 Chevrolet Silverado all on display. GM even brought out their 2019 GMC Sierra Denali to offer more excitement.

Dodge

2019 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeyes
FCA

The auto show wouldn’t have been complete without a 2019 Dodge Challenger Hellcat SRT on display. As we reported earlier this week, the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeyes just started coming off the assembly line so it won’t be long now!

Ferrari

2018 Ferrari Portofino - right side view
Ferrari

Ferrari enthusiasts got a glimpse into the exquisite style of a 2018 Ferrari 488 GTB Spider. If that didn’t fulfill their desires enough, there was also a 2018 Ferrari Portofino on display.

Ford

2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt - left side view
Ford

Ford is another auto manufacturer that showcased numerous vehicles. Visitors got to see the 2019 Ford Edge ST 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt and 2019 Ford Ranger. Don’t forget that the 2019 Ford Ranger has been labeled a leader in its class.

Jeep

Jeep Sandstorm Concept - right rear view
Jeep

Another brand to watch this year will be Jeep. They showed off their Jeep Sandstorm Concept and the 2019 Jeep Wrangler. Of course, with all these recalls overshadowing the company, it should be interesting to see what happens.

Other Highlights from the 2018 Orange County Auto Show

While there are too many vehicles to list, there were some other highlights that pleased the crowd. We spotted a 2019 Acura ILX-A-Spec, 2019 Aston Martin DB11 Volante as well as the 2019 Honda Pilot. It was clear that SUVs and trucks were the main highlights of the party which was seen with the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, 2019 Jaguar I-PACE and 2019 Lamborghini Urus.

Some of the luxury models on display included the 2018 Lexus LC500, 2019 Lexus UX, 2019 Lincoln Nautilus, 2018 Mercedes Benz Sprinter Trailmobile and 2019 Range Rover Velar. In addition, we also saw the 2019 Mazda CX-9, 2019 Nissan Altima and 2019 Subaru Forester Sport. A few others we got to take a glimpse at included the 2019 Subaru WRX Grey Series, 2019 Toyota RAV4 and 2019 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro.

There are more auto shows to watch for this year. In fact, tomorrow the Nashville International Auto Show begins. We also have the San Antonio Auto & Truck Show, SEMA and Motor Trend International Auto Show happening in November. Keep your eyes locked on Car Blog Writers for more auto show news coming soon.

2019 Nissan Titan Reveals New Technology at the State Fair of Texas

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State fairs are for more than just cotton candy and Ferris wheels. This year’s State Fair of Texas is bringing many new automotive debuts worth talking about. One of the interesting additions is with the 2019 Nissan Titan and Titan XD models. Not only will they have upgraded safety equipment, but also a new touchscreen and premium sound system.

2019 Nissan Titan
Nissan

Technology in the 2019 Nissan Titan

The 2019 Nissan Titan features an upgraded seven-inch touchscreen standard on each truck. This compatible display works with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, plus NissanConnect systems. There’s also some charging and USB ports in the cabin where both the rear and front passengers can reach. The upgraded Fender Premium Sound System now has a nine-channel amplifier plus Acoustic Motion Control.

The Crew Cab, King Cab, and Titan XD models now come standard with a Rear Door Alert system. This utilizes sensors on the doors and horn to remind drivers that they need to check the back doors when the vehicle is parked.

Sleek Style

Nissan also released two brand-new color options. You can choose from Midnight Pine or Moab Sunset. If you prefer a custom look, there’s also the Midnight Edition Package. This includes dark headlamps, body-color front grille, black door handles, black exterior badging, and black fog lamp finishers.

The Titan is also available with several 1/2-ton model options. These include the Single Cab, Crew Cab, and King Cab. They come equipped with both 4×4 or 4×2 drive configurations. There’s also a 5.6-liter V8 engine on board that produces 390 horsepower. This perfectly pairs with the seven-speed automatic transmission. The XD models also include a Single Cab, Crew Cab, or King Cab, but they feature two bed length options as well. There’s also a choice of the 5.6-liter V8 or a Cummins 5.0-liter V8 Turbodiesel engine instead.

The Titan XD Diesel comes with a larger DEF tank for the 2019 model year. It also comes with an integrated gooseneck hitch and a plug inside the bed to add more towing features. Don’t take our word about the exciting additions, USA Today ranked the 2019 Nissan Titan as one of the Top 5 Full-Size Pickups of 2019.

If you’re a truck lover, you’ll also appreciate the new Ford F-150 ad.

2019 BMW 3-Series to Debut in Paris

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Among the numerous vehicles we are waiting to see at the 2018 Paris Motor Show, one of the most exciting debuts will be the 2019 BMW 3-Series. In its seventh generation, this sports sedan has come a long way since it’s inception in 1975. Let’s take a closer look at what to expect.

2019 BMW 3-Series
CNET

The New 2019 BMW 3-Series

At first, the BMW 3-Series was only offered as a two-door sedan. Later, in 1983, the four-door model debuted. At the time, it was practical and introduced the sports sedan to families. While the crossover seems to be taking over the world, the 3-Series continues to hold a spot among performance enthusiasts. That’s why the company went ahead with plans for a redesign.

To create excitement for the unveiling, BMW took to their Facebook page to release an unusual ad. It features the Mona Lisa (which is fitting for the Paris Motor Show). She has windswept hair and implies she had a wild ride. Then, viewers are left with excitement and anticipation as the ad says more will be revealed soon.

What We Already Know

While BMW hopes to tease us, there are some things we already know. The brand new 2019 BMW 3-Series rides on their CLAR platform. It comes with a turbocharged, four-cylinder 330i engine which produces 248 horsepower. Then, in 2020, they are planning to release a turbocharged, straight-six 340i as well.

The first model should go on sale in the spring of 2019, but we’ll have more information once the Paris Motor Show begins.

Other Highlights from the Show

We’ll also be reporting on the Audi e-tron electric SUV and the BMW 8-Series. In addition, BMW plans to show off the fourth-generation X5. Other automakers to watch for include Hyundai, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. Of course, we’ll be covering all aspects of the show and look forward to sharing big news with you shortly.

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