Subaru introduces all-new BRZ Sports Coupe for 2022

A few years ago, Toyota and Subaru got together and created an all-new sports coupe to be sold by Subaru and Scion dealers. The cars each had details that differed, but the basic design was the same. When Scion went bye bye, the sports coupe became a Toyota, the FT 86. For 2022, the Subaru BRZ has received updates and upgrades to allow for the all-new title. New styling, a new engine, new infotainment, new safety equipment, etc. The cool thing here is that sports coupes can get pushed aside and the Subie (at least, no word on the Toyota version) has been redone to keep the little coupe relevant. Okay, no hybrid or EV at this time, but the 2.4-liter Subaru Boxer, naturally-aspirated engine is new (228 hp, 184 lb./ft. of torque) that comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic with paddle shifters. With the car's low center of gravity, handling should be exceptional but the BRZ is more about balanced performance than straight-line numbers. The interior is new with Subaru's latest infotainment package and the interior looks like a nice place to be. The BRZ is a 2+2, but the room in the back is better for kids or short folk. But then if you wanted comfy seating for four+, you wouldn't be buying a sports coupe, you'd find some sporty sedan to fill your needs. The new styling is a stand out like a sport coupe should be with sculpted sides and a reworked rear clip that is very good-looking. The front clip is also nice as it should also be. The 2022 Subaru BRZ will be hitting your local dealer later next year, but if this looks like it could be your next car, get in line at your local Subaru dealer now. Sports coupes often sell out after a major update and this is an update. For more info, check out the media release and video after the jump. More to come, I'm sure...

Source: Subaru - Media release. pics, and intro video after the "read more" jump.

AVWWG - Morgan Motor Company launches final run of P101 limited-edition three-wheeler

Morgan Motor Company is known for their sports cars with wood chassis bits and their original vehicle, the three-wheeler. But the vehicle seen here, the P101, marks the end of an era. Morgan is going to halt production of it's three-wheeler in 2021. The current three-wheeler was updated in 2011. The P101 will be available with four distinct packages, the Belly Tank, The Dazzleship (below), the Aviator, and the Race Car each with their own graphics package that attaches to the Deep Black or Satin White Silver painted body. So why is this Another Vehicle We Won't Get (AVWWG) you ask? Well firstly there isn't much call for three-wheel vehicles in the US. Secondly there is the whole regulations and crash testing thing and thirdly Morgan is only going to make 33 examples which appear to be spoken for. Also, the P101 would set US owners back about $70k with current exchange rates, etc. so there's that. I could see a very few collectors wanting to add this special, limited-edition model that marks the end of three-wheeler production to their respective garages. Since Morgan is to continue sports car production, it will be interesting to see how the boutique automaker will handle the upcoming ICE ban in Europe and the UK. Morgan's sports cars use running gear sourced from various other companies, like BMW, so sourcing EV parts should be relatively easy. Just wanted to let you know that the automotive world was much more than just GM, Ford, Toyota, and now Tesla. Check out the media release and video after the jump. Enjoy!

Source: Morgan - Media release, pics, and video after the "read more" jump.

Lincoln upgrades 2021 Nautilus mid-size crossover/SUV

For 2021, Lincoln has refreshed the Nautilus mid-size crossover/SUV with updated styling and a new interior that echoes larger Lincoln vehicles. Yes folks, you can expect mega luxury and loads of safety equipment and the latest Lincoln technology in a nice-sized vehicle. Not everyone needs a Navigator. The updates are good-looking and the interior looks to be a "serene" place to be. The Nautilus comes in many portfolio trims that in "Black Label" trim offer specific environments to uplift your driving experience. Ford's new Sync 4 handles the infotainment duties along with Lincoln's safety and technology suite (including Co-Pilot 360) befitting the Nautilus's stature (see media release for specifics). Two engines will be available depending on trim level chosen: a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four that produces 250 hp and 280 lb/ft. of torque and a 2.7-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6 that makes 335 hp and 380 lb/ft. of torque both mated to an eight-speed automatic. That's where my problem with the new Nautilus lies. Where's the plug-in hybrid or the EV? The Nautilus appears to be similarly sized to Ford's Mustang Mach-e EV, so why not make the leap and make the Nautilus Lincoln's first EV? Could be supply issues or dealer resistance, but Ford/Lincoln missed an opportunity here. What do you think? For more info and two videos (one at the end of the release) make the jump and enjoy!

Source: Lincoln - Media release, digital experience, pics and videos (YouTube, 2) after the "read moire" jump.

Honda debuts prototype of the 2022 Civic sedan

To say that the new 2022 Honda Civic is good-looking is more than accurate. The aspects of the current 10th-generation car have been improved. The new, 11th-generation Civic gets a much cleaner front end without the awkward chrome bars while the sides receive a very clean muscular design. So far, Honda has committed to the standard Civic sedans and the Civic Hatchbacks, as wells as the Civic Si, and the high-performance Civic Type R that will be built in the US for the US market. Since this is a prototype, there could be some changes, but production is set to begin in the Spring. Expect updated tech and safety equipment to help the Civic maintain its "Best-Seller" badge. Yep, Civic is the best-selling compact cat and one of the top-ten sellers period (on and off). The dash art (above) gives an indication of the interior direction of the new Civic. Since Civic is Honda's best-selling compact the new design is important. I don't think Honda needs to worry. Enjoy the intro video above and go to the "read more" jump for the media release and an additional pic. More info to come...

Source: Honda - Media release, video, pics

Mini shows one EV future with innovative Vision Urbanaut concept

Minis have always been about space utilization and their new Vision Urbanaut concept takes the uses of space to a new level. The four-seat interior comes in varying modes aka "Mini Moments" like Chill, Wanderlust, and Vibe with varying uses of the "Cozy Corner" rear seating area. The driver's front area can be converted to a daybed and the instrument cluster folds down into a table. Camping (or is it glamping) anyone? The Urbanaut's footprint is very Mini-esque with a much taller greenhouse than any other Mini model. Interesting touches include front and rear lamps that change from their normal "working" colors to various images, a new interpretation of the Mini grille that houses sensors for autonomous driving, etc,. and the versatile interior. The body-color shading of the glass is very nice and could become the new dark-tinted rear windows. The concept's wheels draw upon the look of skateboard wheels and are unique with clear centers that color change with the Mini Moment selected. Don't see that one making production due to cost and regulations. The hinged windshield is really unnecessary. The single side door entry is interesting. So what could eventually see production? The overall shape and size of the Urbanaut is similar to VW's upcoming iD Buzz reinterpretation of the classic VW van from the 60's. The Urbanaut utilizes an existing BMW/Mini EV platform and the Cozy Corner hoop could provide crash protection and structural strength to offset the large glass area. The reconfigurable four-seat interior (with single door entry) could see production in some form and the digital exterior lights are a possible next step in lighting. As mentioned before, the glass gradient is nice and wouldn't overly restrict the outside view (see bus and building wraps, etc.).  So there is a lot going on with the Mini Vision Urbanaut that shows possible future directions of automotive design, execution, and usage. The question is, "How quickly could Mini get the Urbanaut into production without overly watering down the concept's flavor? We shall see. Interesting though. For lots more info and pics, not to mention the introduction video (after the release), click on the "read more" jump. Enjoy! Oh yeah, add bumpers...and rear-view cameras...

Source: Mini - Media release, intro video (after the media release), and pics

Toyota to begin deliveries of the latest Mirai hydrogen-powered sedan in December

This sleek-looking sedan replaces one of the arguably ugliest vehicles ever produced, the Toyota Mirai. I believe the idea was to make the original Mirai stand out when it came to market five years ago and boy did it. Toyota sold very few of them and the range was very small. In later years, range was improved but if you think it's hard to find electrical charging, try finding a hydrogen station. In fact, Toyota has installed a handful of hydrogen stations as a result. Toyota bribed Mirai buyers with free hydrogen for up to three years (term of a lease?). Sales improved, but not to the levels required. So a new Mirai was needed. Enter the 2021 Mirai with styling that says Toyota/Lexus and is a major improvement. Now Mirai will be offered in XLE (red car below) and Limited grades (blue car and interior pic above) with varying levels of trim and features. Most of Toyota's safety and tech suites come standard with models differentiated by trim mostly like wheels, tires, panoramic roof, upholstery choices, etc. Interestingly, at least to me, the media release does not mention range or pricing, so check with your dealer for info or visit Toyota's consumer website. While the 2021 Mirai is a step forward, why Toyota didn't take the next step and make the Mirai an EV is beyond me. It feels like Toyota invested in the wrong technology, especially since EVs are being accepted around the globe and maybe they didn't anticipate battery advancements. (FYI: hydrogen fuel cells create electricity which is used to power electric motors.) Also hydrogen for vehicles is often created from hydrocarbons aka oil or by breaking apart water molecules which requires energy. Is Toyota somehow wedded to the oil industry? Hydrogen-fueled vehicles emit mostly water out the exhaust which is a step up from ICE vehicles, but hydrogen-fuel cells seem to be a middle step most manufacturers decided to skip. The 2021 Mirai will be at your local dealer in December. Maybe Toyota will release an EV version of the new Mirai which might spur more interest from consumers.

Source: Toyota - Media release and pics

Hyundai adds 50+ mpg hybrid model to dramatic 2021 Elantra

 

To say that Hyundai has upgraded the 2021 Elantra is an understatement. The new car has a dramatic styling overhaul that makes the new Elantra appear much larger than its predecessor while the increases in size are less than two inches (length, width, lowered height) the interior volume remains mostly the same. The styling updates are, like all things, subjective and up to your eyes to decide, but the new Elantra is a looker. The big news is the addition of the new hybrid model that is expected to get a 50+ mpg rating by the EPA. Just to show how diminutive the new Elantra really is, just look at the power ratings. The standard car's 2.0-liter four is rated 147 hp and 132 lb./ft of torque while the hybrid makes 139 hp and up to 195 lb./ft of torque which in the past, has moved the car along nicely. If you're interested, drive it and decide for yourself. The hybrid gets a six-speed dual-clutch automatic while the ICE version has to make do with a CVT (continuously-variable transmission) or what I like to call a rubber-band transmission (sound and engine noise/revs don't always match speed). The interior (shown) has an optional 10.25 infotainment screen and 10.25 instrument display along with what you'd expect and can afford. Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto are new additions. For more info on standard and available equipment, check out the media release, intro video (at the end). and pics after the "read more" jump. Expect the 2021 Elantras (Elantri?) to show up at your local dealer soon.

Source: Hyundai - Media release, B-roll video, and pics

Volkswagen intros new Golf R with R-Performance Torque-Vectoring 4Motion all-wheel drive

Volkswagen's Golf (now in its eighth generation) has been a mainstay in the automaker's line-up as the replacement for the venerable Beetle. Since then, the Golf has received numerous upgrades including the performance-oriented GTI and R models. Where the GTI is a well-balanced run-a-bout, the Golf R is all about speed and handling with 4Motion all-wheel drive. This newest Performance Golf R features an upgraded engine with more than 315 hp and torque-vectoring added to the all-wheel-drive system. Expect the new Golf R to hit 60 mph in about 4.5 seconds and early prototypes have posted record times (for Golfs) at Germany's Nürburgring Nordschleife racing center. As the top-of-the Golf line, the R receives all of VW's good stuff from tech to safety equipment. As anyone who's shopped a Golf R before, prices can climb to the mid-five-figure region quickly depending on options chosen, etc. VW may not sell tons of these, but those lucky enough to come up with the price of entry are generally very happy. On a down note, couldn't all this have been accomplished with a performance-hybrid system (gas engine in the front driving the front wheels, electric motor in the back driving the rear wheels) which could provide equal or better performance with improved fuel economy and provide a bit of a "green" patina. VW is expected to phase out the Golf over the next few years and replace it with the iD.3 EV series. Rumor has it that VW is already at work on an iD.3 GTI. We shall see. Enjoy the media release and video after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, video, and pics after the "read more" jump.

Ford powering ahead with new 2022 E-Transit battery-electric commercial vans

Ford, who controls much of the US van market, has just announced the 2022 E-Transit models that will be available next year. The fully battery-electric powered EV vans will come in three lengths with three roof sizes as well as cutaway and cab-only versions. Initially the E-Transit will come with one motor size and battery pack that will be good for 266 hp and 126 miles of range (van needs are much different than the needs of the general public). Even with those specs, the E-Transit is expected to carry between 3,000 and 4000+ pounds of cargo. The E-Transit is rear-wheel drive with the electric motor on the rear axle and with the batteries under the cargo floor. Pricing will start at $45k for the smallest length and lowest roof (yes these babies ain't cheap, but then neither are the gas and diesel models), but you can expect cost savings from an EV's lower costs of operation. Full info and pricing will become available closer to the van's intro. The E-Transit comes with Ford's full safety and tech suites including ProPower options, Sync 4 and a standard 4g LTE modem. For the available info and more, check out the informative media release and video after the jump.

Source: Media release, pics, and video after the "read more" jump.

BMW gives first look at the 2022 iX EV crossover/SAV

 

I'll admit it. I'm a sucker for metallic candy-apple red vehicles. But I think the red iX represents more of what consumers will lean towards...darker colors. Black is usually my choice, but like with BMW's i3, the black color choice loses the interesting contrasts in the bodywork and trim. Black would turn the iX into a "Darth Vader mobile" which is okay if that's your thing. I'm starting this post out with this discussion to underscore how important vehicle color just is. Some online posters have derided the looks of the iX (is that X for crossover/SAV or for 10?) but I like it. It's growing on me, again the color is important (the gold car doesn't do it for me). The hoodline is a great accent to the large BMW kidney grilles and the squared wheel arches are done nicely. The overall shape is very nice. The interior seems to be a nice place to ease into complete with BMW's e-Drive infotainment system. While pre-production appears to have begun (see pic after the "read more" jump), the iX is expected later next year as a 2022 model. As a result, some small things can still be tweaked, but expect BMW performance and class-competitive range (0 - 60 is expected in about 5 seconds, 500 hp, 300+ miles, fast charging - to 80% in about 40 minutes). While those are good numbers now, where will the class numbers be in a year (since Tesla upgrades all the time)? We shall see. From the pre-production pic, the iX appears to be about the size of a 5-Series which means that the iX won't be cheap. While I understand the desire to go after the top of the market since new tech is always expensive at first, pretty soon it will be tough to sell vehicles since everyone is going after the same market (not to mention the financial troubles most of us face due to the pandemic). So BMW, how about a compact SAV/crossover or sub-compact one? Until then, enlarge the i3 battery pack for more range. BTW, with all premium BMWs, the iX will feature all of BMW's tech and safety equipment. For lots more info, check out the extensive media release, with more pics after the jump. The next post features the BMW video  "What's your reason not to change?". BTW, from the cutaway pic, it seems that the iX will be all-wheel drive.

Source: BMW - Media release and pics. Video in next post.

What's your reason not to change? The first-ever BMW iX.

Source: BMW/YouTube

Hyundai Kona Electric gets a refresh and updates for the new year

Hyundai's Kona Electric has been a bit of a success for the Korean automaker already selling more than 120,000 units. For the upcoming year, the automaker has upgraded the EV run-a-bout with new styling and more safety tech and features. The front clip is much cleaner with the new "smiley" front fascia with revised daytime running lights and headlights. Depending on the color, the front charging access port could be objectionable to some breaking up the clean(er) design. The tail is a little busy but not objectionable. New colors are available as are new two-tone (black or white roof) paint options. The interior receives upgrades including a larger dash display. Hyundai's BlueLink app is also upgraded with numerous new features including charging time settings (to allow for lower electricity rates), and interior pre-heat which saves battery charge when the vehicle is still connected to its charging source, among others. Two battery sizes will be available with the larger battery expecting almost 300 miles of range (in Euro testing), For all the info regarding the numerous safety and tech updates check out the comprehensive (Euro) media release. When will these changes hit the US? Don't know since the US media site doesn't highlight these changes yet. (Probably don't want to take interest away from the upcoming all-new Tucson.) If this looks like your kind of EV, check with your local dealer for availability. Promo video available after the jump as well.

Source: Hyundai - Media release, video, and pics after the "read more" jump.

AVWWG - Vauxhall Mokka-e EV deliveries start in April 2021 - Update

As you may know, Vauxhall is the English Opel or you could say that Opel is the German Vauxhall. Anyway you put it, the Vauxhall Mokka is a platform mate to the Opel Corsa which are now both available in "e" versions aka EV or battery-electric vehicles. I chose the Vauxhall to write about due to it's interesting design. The Corsa is nice, but more traditional looking. So the dash pic will have the controls on the "right" side as is the case for all cars made for the UK. As a result, the Mokka-e comes to you straight from the Another Vehicle We Won't Get (AVWWG) files. While I'm focusing on the EVs, the Mokka and Corsa are all-new with new gas and diesel engines as well. Some of you may remember that Opel/Vauxhall used to be a part of GM, but was sold several years ago to the PSA Group (which also makes the Peugeot and Citroen vehicles, among others). From a design point of view, it looks like the sale was a good one for Vauxhall. The new Mokka-e features a small electric motor that puts out about 140 hp and lots of torque, The Mokka-e has a 50kWh lithium-ion battery pack that is good for about 200 miles in Euro testing. These stats are sufficient for the Mokka-e and its intended city usage. Also, remember that the Mokka-e is not a huge car, so... Pricing for the base Mokka-e starts at around 32,000 Pounds which converts to roughly $50k. Not cheap, but the price includes the UK's value added tax which can be substantial. Peugeot is considering a return to the US market so we might see either the Mokka-e or Corsa-e in a few years. If they do, let's hope for more power and range and the Vauxhall look with the dash on the left. Could happen. For more info about the various permutations of the Mokka, features, tech, and full pricing in the media release after the "read more" jump. As an added side note, the Opel Corsa-e recently won the "Golden Steering Wheel" award for 2020. 

Update: It gas been reported that the first batch of Vauxhall's Mokka-e EV have sold out, much to the surprise of Vauxhall Officials. Yes, folks will buy EVs especially good-looking ones.

Source: PSA/Vauxhall - Media release, pricing charts, and pics

AVWWG - 2020 Honda E EV - Update

Here's another one from the Another Vehicle We Won't Get (AVWWG) files, the Honda E. The Honda E is a city car that's small in stature and short on range like the BMW i3, Nissan Leaf, and others. The Honda E seats 4, hits 60 mph from a standstill in about 9 seconds in the standard model and 8.3 seconds with the Advanced versions (both wheel sizes), and has a range of about 130 miles (again based on wheel size, bigger wheels have less range). Not Tesla territory but this isn't an open-road car. A full charge takes about 4 hours at a fast charger, but a workable range can be achieved in about 30 minutes. Home charging takes about 18 hours (aka overnight). There's a lot of user-focused technology stuffed into this little package that you generally don't see in cars of this size. The Honda E wants to fit into and enhance your life. One of my favorite pieces of tech are the rear-view cameras instead of mirrors (improves air flow don't cha know). There are monitors at each end of the Honda E's full-width dash/screen that is easy to use and get used too, unlike some systems. The Honda E's electric motor is situated on the rear axle for rear-wheel drive and the battery pack is under the passenger compartment for a low center of gravity and better handling. What Honda has made is a fun, cute small EV that won't sell hundreds of thousands but will sell thousands of units. Unfortunately, those numbers aren't enough for US dealers to bother, plus this little EV isn't cheap. At current exchange rates the Honda E would start at close to $40k (assuming no Honda markdowns or added taxes like the UK's value-added tax). This is i3 money without the BMW label. But you do get one hell-of-an EV. The Honda E is kind of popular in Europe (not enough that Honda didn't have to "pool" vehicles with Tesla to meet Euro standards) and I think it would be here (at least in the first few years without changes and upgrades). Of course that could cause supply problems, but that's a good problem to have don't you think? Plus it would get EV buyers into Honda dealerships, so... Let's hope Honda changes their mind about this one. For lots more info, check out the media release, pics, and spec chart after the "read more" jump.  See next post for videos (3).

Source: Honda UK - media and pics

Honda E Videos

  Source: Honda UK/YouTube -  Additional videos after the "read more" jump.