Ford F-150 debuts in Detroit 2015

One of the most anticipated debuts at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show has finally happened and it comes in the form of the 2015 Ford F-150.  Right off the bat, we can now confirm that the latest F-150 is comprised of a high-strength steel frame and a high-strength aluminum-alloy body, which helps shave off 700 pounds compared to the out-going model. Besides the weight-saving materials, an available 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine bows for the first time, confirming what we already had been expecting. This new engine, along with the rest of the 2015 F-150 lineup, went through more than 10 million miles of testing and even ran in the 2013 Baja 1000

Starting with the most important change, Ford hasn't come out and said exactly what type of aluminum the 2015 F-150 will consist of but it did say it is similar to that found on a military HUMVEE, commercial transportation and other various aerospace applications. The F-150's signature fully boxed ladder frame consists of new high-strength steel and is stronger and lighter than the one it's replacing. This new steel frame is rated up to 70,000 psi, which is stronger than some competitors' heavy-duty truck frames.  In all, eight through-welded crossmembers beef up stiffness and staggered rear outboard shocks bolster stability. Ford claims that the 2015 F-150 is the strongest and most durable model to ever be introduced and was tested under a variety of conditions, including crisscrossing the United States while towing a trailer through desert valleys and over high-altitude mountain passes. As mentioned above, Ford even went as far to test the 2015 F-150 and its new 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine by entering a disguised truck into the Baja 1000, which it completed, and then engineers drove it home

In all, four engines are set to be offered in the new F-150, including the new turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine that features auto start-stop technology. This start-stop technology only shuts the engine off when you're not towing anything or not in four-wheel drive. Ford promises this new engine will offer power similar to that of a mid-range V8. The outgoing 3.7-liter naturally aspirated V6 has been downsized slightly to 3.5-liters, while the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine will return as expected. The 5.0-liter V8 engine is now the biggest engine offered in the F-150's portfolio as the 6.2-liter V8 sails off into the sunset.  All four engine choices are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. On 2015 F-150s equipped with an EcoBoost engine, Active Grille Shutters, which stay open when the engine requires extra cooling, will be a standard feature. These same shutters will automatically close in an effort to reduce aerodynamic drag when cruising at highway speeds

Design-wise, it's immediately obvious when looking at the 2015 Ford F-150 that the nose reflects the Atlas Concept very closely, giving the Blue Oval's latest variation of its light-duty pick-up a chiseled look. The LED headlight and tail lamp design also shares similar styling cues from that of the Atlas Concept.  The next-gen tailgate step makes its debut on the latest F-150 along with other new features like a 360-degree camera view, integrated loading ramps in the bed, 400-watt power outlets in the cab and a remote tailgate release

Inside, the 2015 F-150 features some styling cues that were first seen in the Atlas Concept at the Detroit Auto Show last year. The steering wheel is one of the more notable features that made the jump from the Atlas Concept to the production version of the 2015 F-150. A new 8-inch touchscreen sits in the middle of the dashboard and allows drivers to customize the home screen with apps they expect to use often. Big buttons and controls are easy to operate even when wearing gloves, and various storage spaces positioned through-out the F-150's cabin can accommodate the usual job-site staples like cell phones, drinks and laptops. In the Super and Crew cab configurations, rear under-seat storage provides a spot to store valuables away from prying eyes. Other new features include second-row inflatable seat belts, Curve Control that regulates four-wheel braking when entering a corner too quickly, adaptive cruise control, Lane-Keeping System, Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert, trailer hitch assist and a smart trailer tow module

When it goes on sale late this year, five primary trim levels will be available: XL, XLT, Lariat, Platinum and King Ranch. Those who like chrome can opt for the chrome appearance package on the XL, XLT and Lariat trim levels, while the FX4 off-road package can be added to most four-wheel-drive models. The FX4 off-road package includes an electronic locking rear axle, skid plates and off-road tuned shocks

The 2015 Ford F-150 will continue to be assembled at the Blue Oval's truck facility in Dearborn, Michigan, and its Kansas City assembly facility in Claycomo, Missouri. Pricing and fuel figures are expected to be made available closer to the 2015 F-150's sale date

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New York International Auto Show: Sedans in the spotlight 2015

There's no question that the auto industry is mad for crossover SUVs as the compact-sized variety is one of the fastest growing segments currently. But that's not to say that the traditional 4-door sedan has been consigned to the ash pile of history. At least that's the conclusion to take away from the New York International Auto Show, which played host to a bevy of new 4-door models

The most anticipated new sedan at the show was the all-new Cadillac CT6, a full-size sedan offered in either rear- or all-wheel drive positioned to take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series. The CT6 not only ushers in new nomenclature for the car side of GM's luxury division, but also debuts a new lightweight architecture and a new family of twin-turbo V6 and V8 engines. It is a make or break product in Cadillac's bid for global parity among the top luxury cars. Cadillac's longtime rival Lincoln showed off an early look at its own new flagship sedan, the Continental Concept

No less important to Jaguar/Land Rover Group is the remake of the mid-size Jaguar XF, which will share the aluminum-intensive approach introduced in the compact XE. In addition to hitting the show floor in New York, the car also bowed in London as part of a high wire act

In the mainstream market, the Nissan Maxima has also been redesigned and will again stress its performance-oriented suspension and drivetrain under the 4-door sports car positioning, Chevrolet's much needed remake of the Malibu midsize sedan showed off completely new skin and a package that promises more rear legroom, while Kia took the covers off the next installment of its popular Optima midsize family car. At a more entry-level price point, Scion gave us a two-fer: The iA is that division's first 4-door sedan, and it bowed alongside the all-new iM hatchback

Other non-SUV offerings include a new Chevrolet Spark hatchback, Smart hosted the American debut of its new Fortwo city car and McLaren flaunted the high-performance 570S Sport two-seater

And even though sedans dominated the New York Auto Show headlines, there were some significant SUV introductions, too. Making their world debuts were the Mercedes-Benz GLE — a replacement for the current ML — a redone Mitsubishi Outlander and perhaps most important of all, the all-new Lexus RX, a remake of the iconic crossover SUV that created the segment

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Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class unveiled 2015

The wraps have just come off the all-new 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class prior to its public debut next month at the Frankfurt Auto Show

The production version of the 2015 GLA-Class retains most of the basic styling cues seen in the GLA Concept that was unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show in April. In creating the package, M-B design chief Gorden Wagener aimed to create a look that was both traditional and progressive but also embodied a uniquely youthful character. The GLA's boldly contoured yet aerodynamically efficient bodywork is complemented by edgy but elegantly rendered front/rear fascias, a low greenhouse, and prominently flared fender arches filled with a standard 18-inch wheel/tire package or optional 19-inch upgrade. In addition to numerous visible wind-cheating details -- from the shape of its mirror housings and taillamp lenses to a subtle but effective liftgate spoiler and rear diffuser -- the profile of the GLA-Class has been further streamlined through the use of various hidden air-channeling devices that include an array of underbody fairings

The young-and-cool persona of this new compact SUV carries over to its passenger compartment, starting with a dash design that, save for GLA-specific wood or aluminum trim finishes, is a virtual clone of the one in the new CLA-Class. Beyond the GLA's leather-wrapped, 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel is an instrument cluster that matches analog main gauges with digital ancillary readouts, while a large multimedia display screen positioned high in the center of the dash works in concert with the GLA's various infotainment systems, including the standard mbrace2 connectivity services and optional COMAND telematics. Like other Mercedes offerings, the GLA-Class will be available with M-B-Tex or optional leather upholstery in a variety of colors, with standard buckets or more aggressively bolstered sport seats up front. The GLA's aft quarters feature a belted-for-three split rear bench with flat-folding seatbacks. At the rear, its large liftgate teams with a low sill height to ease cargo loading chores

The 2015 GLA-Class will share all of its key powertrain elements with the A-Class/CLA-Class. That includes the CLA 250's 2.0-liter turbocharged/direct-injected 4-cylinder engine that cranks out 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and a 7-speed (DCT) dual-clutch automatic transmission. In addition to standard front-wheel drive, the GLA also will offer M-B's all-new lightweight and super-efficient 4Matic system specifically designed for vehicles with a transversely-mounted engine. Opting for this sophisticated all-wheel-drive setup also nets Downhill Speed Regulation control that uses a variety of engine/transmission/brake inputs to maintain a safe pace on challenging grades as well as a dedicated "off-road" transmission mode that tweaks the throttle and shiftpoint mapping to optimize the GLA's traction and handling on loose surfaces

Like all M-B vehicles, the new GLA-Class will come with a comprehensive array of standard safety systems highlighted by Attention Assist drowsiness detection and M-B's radar-based Collision Prevention Assist with adaptive Brake Assist that can help protect against impacts from as low as 4 mph. Other available safety upgrades include Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, Collision Prevention Assist Plus all-speed autonomous braking capability, Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assist and Parktronic with optional Park Assist. In addition to Sport and Driver Assistance Packages, the new GLA-Class also will be available with a power liftgate and Panorama sunroof

While Mercedes has not yet released pricing for any GLA-Class model, it has confirmed that the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 4Matic will be the first to reach showrooms here when it goes on sale in fall 2014 and takes on rivals like the Acura RDX, BMW X1 and upcoming Lincoln MKC. The front-drive 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 is set to make U.S. debut in early 2015. No word yet on any arrival date for a performance version of this classy crossover, although it's believed that a CLA45 AMG powered by the same 355-horse engine used in the CLA45 AMG Sedan is in the pipeline

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Ford Expedition adds EcoBoost power and Platinum trim 2015

Getting its formal reveal on the eve of the DFW Auto Show in Dallas, Texas, the 2015 Ford Expedition boasts a fresher look, a more connected character, enhanced dynamics and a new 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine.  Continuing in standard and EL (119-inch/131-inch wheelbase) configurations, the 2015 Expedition models will offer a range-topping Platinum trim grade when it goes on sale this fall

While modest in scope, visual changes to the 2015 Expedition's fascias add more contemporary flair to the package. Up front, the soft cap is edgier, a look complemented by new lighting elements - including available LED fog lamps - plus a bolder lower valance treatment. The rear sports a redesigned liftgate and new chrome-tipped dual exhaust outlets. In addition to new colors that are specifically keyed to the XLT, Limited, King Ranch and new Platinum trims, the 2015 Expedition lineup also gets redesigned alloy wheels that range up to 22 inches in diameter

The cabin makeover on this 7/8-passenger SUV travels a similarly purposeful route. Key revamps consist of new 4.2-inch LCD driver information screens in the main instrument cluster and a restyled center stack to accommodate an 8.0-inch high-res color display for the Expedition's available SYNC with MyFord Touch infotainment/navigation system. Other standard/available tech highlights for 2015 include a 10-speaker/700-watt Sony premium audio system, Intelligent Access with push-button start, seven-color ambient LED lighting, a rearview camera and Ford truck apps to facilitate trailer towing and off-road driving. Going Platinum brings all of the above and more, including supple leather upholstery, power-adjustable pedals, Ford's radar-based Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert and unique trim accents

For many, the most meaningful change on the 2015 Ford Expedition will be found underhood where the current 5.4-liter V8 gives way to Ford's well-proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 as sole engine in the North American market. While final figures on the popular twin-turbo/direct-injected engine have yet to be released, they'll at least match the 365-horsepower/420 lb-ft of torque it produces when fitted to an F-150 pickup. Both numbers handily exceed the 310/365 output stats of the current V8, and promise to add a good deal more snap to the Expedition's overall performance. The EcoBoost engine is also expected to deliver significantly better fuel economy in both rear-drive and 4-wheel drive models. While gear-changing will still be handled by a 6-speed automatic, for 2015 the transmission adds SelectShift manual-style capability

Although the 2015 Expedition's standard fully-independent suspension is largely carryover, it does gain more energy-efficient electric power steering that improves driver feedback across the entire speed range. The Expedition also will be the first Ford-badged product to offer the automaker's trick Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) system as an option. The tri-mode (Comfort/Normal/Sport) CCD setup constantly reads and reacts to 46 different steering/braking/dynamic inputs. It alters shock absorber settings in milliseconds to minimize unwanted body motion and enhance overall ride comfort

Pricing, EPA figures and final equipment details for the 2015 Ford Expedition will be announced closer to its arrival in dealer showrooms

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Subaru Outback gets a major makeover 2015

Ready to start a new chapter in its illustrious history, the fully redesigned 2015 Subaru Outback made its debut at the New York Auto Show boasting more of everything that matters. Still available in 2.5i/2.5i Premium/2.5i Limited and 3.6R Limited variants, the fifth generation of Subie's versatile compact all-wheel-drive crossover SUV matches a bolder appearance with enhanced on/off-road capabilities, greater efficiency, new tech touches and a more refined overall character

Marginally longer, lower and wider than the vehicle it replaces, the 2015 Outback has a sleeker and more stylish profile abetted by a redrawn greenhouse that brings a more steeply raked windshield and back glass. The new front-end shares grille and lighting cues with the also new-for-2015 Legacy Sedan while upsized wheel/tire fitments impart an even greater sense of purpose. Ground clearance on the 2015 remains a generous 8.7 inches, but boonie bounders will be happy to hear the recasting process also increased both the approach and departure angles

Inside, the 2015 Outback takes a step up in look and feel thanks to additional soft-touch surfaces, new trim, better sound isolation and enhanced standard features highlighted by a new gauge cluster plus a selection of model-specific upgraded infotainment systems that have a 6.2-inch touchscreeen display and full smartphone/Bluetooth/iPod integration. Modest gains in hip and shoulder room enhance passenger comfort while  cargo space rises from 34.3 to 35.5 cu ft with the Outback's rear seatback up and 71.3 to 73.3 cubic feet with it folded. In addition to new easy-release/fold-flat backs, accessing the rear bay is now more convenient thanks to a lower liftover height and an optional power rear hatch

Motivation for the 2015 Outback comes from an enhanced and slightly more potent --- 175-hp vs 173-hp - version of the 2.5-liter flat-four and a carryover 256-horsepower/3.6-liter boxer-6 but both are now backed by a standard Lineartronic CVT that offers six virtual gears that can be selected using shift paddles on the steering wheel. That transmission change plus Active Grille Shutters on the 2.5 and new electric power-assist steering on both helps improve EPA numbers across the board, adding 2 mpg to the combined ratings. The 2015 Outback's mechanical remake bolsters the existing suite of vehicle dynamics systems with an extensively retuned suspension, upgraded brakes and enhanced Symmetrical AWD with Active Torque Split power vectoring for improved stability plus Subaru's driver-selectable X-Mode system that further optimizes engine and CVT mapping on all terrains

Safety also figures prominently into the 2015 Outback's recasting process, with all models getting new front seat-cushion airbags, rollover sensors and rearview cameras while Limited-spec vehicles add a Rear Vehicle Detection System (optional on the 2.5i Premium) that includes Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert

The 2015 Subaru Outback will arrive in dealers this summer. Pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date

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Acura TLX to bow in New York 2015

It's now official: the production version of the all-new 2015 Acura TLX sport-luxury sedan will have its global unveiling next month at the New York Auto Show. 

Acura provided a good deal of technical information on the production 2015 TLX when the wraps came off of the TLX Prototype, much of it concerning the powertrain. The 2015 TLX will be offered with two direct-injected i-VTEC engines and two new transmissions. The all-new 2.4-liter direct-injected 4-cylinder base motor gets backed by a new 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission while the optional 3.5-liter V6 pairs up with a new 9-speed autoshifter.  Performance and EPA stats still remain undisclosed, but Acura anticipates best-in-class status for both

All-Wheel Steer Featured

All front-drive versions of the 2015 TLX will feature a new generation of Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer technology that offers independent left/right rear toe-angle control. Stepping up to a V6 will allow buyers to opt for a next-gen version of the automaker's Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system that incorporates new torque-vectoring control logic. We now know that this new SH-AWD package also is 25 percent lighter than the current setup, which should further enhance the dynamic qualities of the 2015 Acura TLX

Acura also announced driver assist technology available on the new TLX. Topping that long list are a Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow and Blind Spot Indicator. We'll have full details on the 2015 Acura TLX following its reveal on April 16

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Nissan Murano: Boldly Beautiful 2015

 unveiled at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, the dramatically recast 2015 Nissan Murano made a scintillating debut in the Big Apple. In addition to bringing show car looks to the showroom, the third generation of Nissan's mid-size crossover SUV has a new cabin to match the bold exterior design

 Inspired by what Nissan calls "a new age of future flight," the exterior of the 2015 Murano embodies the automaker's latest design thinking. Slightly lower, wider and longer than the current model but with the same 111.2-inch wheelbase, the new Murano sports dramatically contoured bodywork, a bold "V-Motion" front fascia, boomerang-style LED-infused front/rear lights and a jet-inspired "floating roof" with a unique D-pillar treatment. Matching form with function, the 2015 Murano also features loads of aero-enhancing details from articulated grille shutters to a tasteful decklid spoiler, tweaks that help improve overall aerodynamics by more than 16 percent. While the standard wheel/tire fitment wraps 235/655 rubber around 18-inch alloy wheels, the new also Murano offers 20-inch rims shod with 235/55 rubber

Futuristic interior

The cabin in this new-age Murano parallels the forward thinking evident in its exterior, eschewing convention in favor of a more open, lounge-like realm. Nissan's NASA-inspired "zero-gravity" seats in all outboard positions ensure that second-row passengers enjoy a first-class travel experience. The revamped interior offers an extra four cubic feet of cargo space. Other key features include a 7.0-inch reconfigurable Advanced Drive-Assist main instrument display, NissanConnect with Mobile Apps, full Bluetooth smartphone/streaming-audio integration and dual-zone climate control. Murano options include leather upholstery, climate-controlled front buckets, Bose audio, NissanConnect with Navigation/SiriusXM, an 8.0-inch touchscreen and an expansive single-pane panoramic glass roof

Available in S, SV, SL or Platinum trim and front- or all-wheel drive, every 2015 Murano variant will share Nissan's well-proven 260-horsepower/3.5-liter V6 engine backed by the automaker's Xtronic CVT automatic transmission. Although EPA numbers haven't been released, the Murano's sleeker shape and 130-pound weight reduction coupled with minor drivetrain tweaks and low rolling resistance tires are expected to net about a 20-percent gain in combined fuel economy

The 2015 Nissan Murano will be produced at the automaker's Canton, Mississippi, assembly plant and arrive in arrive in dealers in late 2014. Pricing will be announced closer to its actual on-sale date

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Dodge Challenger: Retro Packaging, Current Technology 2015

Following up on six years of steadily increasing sales, Dodge revealed an update of the revivalist Challenger pony car at the New York International Auto Show, an extensive freshening that preserves the look, spirit, and rumble of yesteryear with contemporary engineering and electronics

The 2015 Dodge Challenger sustains its unabashedly retro roots, but the updated styling is drawn from the 1971 model, rather than 1970, according to the Dodge. That year, its second on the market, marked the zenith of Challenger performance, the final year with the option of 426 Hemi V-8 muscle

Subtle Design Cues

The design distinctions between 1970 and '71 were subtle, and that's true of the 2015 update. The front and rear fascias have been redesigned-a thinner split grille slot, deeper airdam, an LED halo surrounding the quad headlights, a bigger power bulge in the hood, a new Shaker hood option, and LED taillights

But like the transition from 1970 to '71, the 2015 profile is essentially the same as 2014. Aside from a new cast aluminum axle housing, that's also true of the chassis. And the retro theme is sustained by what Dodge calls "high impact heritage hues:" B5 Blue, Tor Red, and Sublime, an electric green that may be visible from low earth orbit. There are also seven "heritage inspired" stripe options

Redesigned Cabin

The all-new interior is a blend of retro design and contemporary technology. Highlights under this heading include a new 7-inch TFT cluster nestled between the tachometer and speedometer with programmable information via Dodge's Performance Pages feature; a new 8.4-inch touchscreen option with Chrysler's U-Connect telematics; driver selectable operating modes; and a new rearview camera. An S3 card slot, auxiliary audio input and USB outlet are integrated into a new media hub housed in the center armrest

The front seats have been redesigned, with upholstery choices ranging from cloth to Nappa leather, and the option of heating and cooling for those clad with hides. There's also a performance seat option with heftier bolstering

V-6 and V-8 Power

As you'd expect, there's no shortage of muscle. Engine choices are familiar: Chrysler's 305-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6, and 5.7- and 6.4-liter Hemi V-8s. EPA fuel economy ratings weren't final at show time, but are expected to be about the same as 2014

Output for the Hemis ranges up to 375 hp and 410 pound-feet of torque in the Challenger R/T when the intake air is enhanced by cold air from the optional Shaker hood, and the engine is paired with a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission. The Shaker package also includes a low restriction exhaust, emitting a visceral rumble.The Shaker package also extends to the chassis via the optional Super Track Pack, with upgrades to suspension, brakes, steering, three-mode stability control, and Goodyear Eagle F1 performance rubber

The 6.4 Hemi generates 485 hp and 475 lb-ft, and both Hemis will include the option of Chrysler's TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic (standard with the V-6), replete with paddle shifters and a new electronic shift feature

Also new: an electric power steering system

Scat Pack Returns

Dodge has also introduced a new line of Scat Pack accessories from Mopar, Chrysler's in-house aftermarket department. Scat Pack hardware includes 5.7-liter V-8 engine upgrades, performance suspension parts, and 20 x 9-inch forged alloy wheels, and Brembo brakes, plus a Scat Pack appearance package with a 276-watt audio system and animated start-up screen

Offered in eight trim levels-SXT, SXT Plus, R/T, R/T Plus, R/T Shaker, R/T Plus Shaker, 6.4-liter Scat Pack, and 392 HEMI Scot Pack Shaker-the 2015 Challengers will reach showrooms this fall, with some of the high performance Shaker elements due later in the year

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Audi Q3 previewed for U.S. in Detroit 2015

 the Detroit Auto Show provide an early look at its smallest crossover-style offering, which it believes also will find favor with plenty of buyers here. In presenting the 2015 Audi Q3, Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America noted: "Our growing SUV family will now offer three distinct products in the premium SUV category; and like the successful Q5 and Q7, the Q3 will continue with the established standards they started with regards to utility, technology, craftsmanship and performance

Sharing much of its basic design DNA with its larger siblings, the new Q3 offers room for five in a stylish, well-appointed package that includes a number of standards that are optional in other markets. In addition to sleek bodywork with a low, flowing roofline bookended by a lightweight aluminum hood and tailgate, the Q3's exterior is highlighted by Audi's signature monoform grille flanked by slim-line xenon plus headlights combined with LED daytime running lights up front and full LED taillights. The U.S. Q3 will ride on standard 18-inch alloy wheels but offer an optional 19-inch upgrade

The 2015 Audi Q3 will be available in front-drive or Quattro all-wheel drive, all fitted with the same 200-horsepower/2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that makes 207 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed Tiptronic automatic will be standard and versions will feature electromechanical power steering and a stability system with an off-road mode and hill descent control. Like the Q5 and Q7, the Q3 also can be fitted with the Audi drive select system, an option that brings adjustable shocks and permits a driver to choose one of three modes (Comfort/Sport/Auto) that remap the steering, damping and throttle responses

The Q3's nicely turned out cabin features leather seating surfaces with heated 12-way power front buckets, a panoramic sunroof with retractable shade and LED ambient lighting as well as the ultra-convenient Audi advanced key and a 60/40 folding rear seat that can expand cargo space from a standard 16.2 cu ft to 48.2 cu ft. The top-line Prestige trim level also includes the Audi connect infotainment system that brings Audi's sophisticated MMI navigation, a factory-fitted Wi-Fi hotspot that can handle up to eight devices, real-time news/weather/traffic, myAudi Destination, Google Voice Local Search  and more

Enhancing its personalization potential, the new Audi Q3 also will offer an impressive selection of optional equipment. Highlighting that roster is a 14-speaker/465-watt Bose premium audio system, the MMI navigation system with a 7-inch color screen, a programmable power tailgate, a Sport Package with upgraded front seats and a Driver Assistance Package that brings Audi side assist plus the Audi parking system with rearview camera.  Pricing for the 2015 Audi Q3 will be announced closer to its on-sale date

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Chevrolet Trax Arrives Stateside 2015

Chevrolet introduced a new, small SUV to its U.S. portfolio in the form of the 2015 Trax at the New York Auto Show. Originally launched in both Mexico and Canada back in 2012 and then Europe last year, the 2015 Chevrolet Trax joins division's SUV lineup bringing features like available OnStar 4G LTE, Siri Eyes Free, and a built in Wi-Fi hot spot

Available in three trim levels - LS, LT, and LTZ - the 2015 Chevrolet Trax sports divisional styling cues like the signature dual-port grille, a prominent bowtie emblem, and swept headlights. Other available exterior details include fog lights and simulated front and rear skid plates. Out back, vertical taillights flank the tailgate which help accent bodylines and give the wheel arches a more pronounced look. In all, 10 exterior colors will be available including Orange Rock metallic, Blaze Red, and White Pearl Tricoat

High Line Interior

Inside, a dual-cockpit instrument panel shares styling with that found in the subcompact Sonic and features a large, performance-oriented analog tachometer. The speedometer as well as other vital readouts is displayed digitally. A 7-inch color touchscreen display sits in the middle of the center console. Chevy's MyLink system and all of its apps come standard with the display screen and can accommodate an available GPS-enabled app navigation system that can be downloaded. A rearview camera is also standard. A small-diameter, thick-rimmed steering wheel is wrapped in leather on LTZ and some LT models. LS models get a cloth interior while LT trims get deluxe cloth or you can opt for the available cloth/leatherette. LTZ models get the full leatherette treatment. The 60/40 split rear seat folds down flat giving way to 48.4 cubic feet of space. With the seats in place, the Trax offers 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space

Under the hood, a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is the only option and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Chevy estimates that the 2015 Trax will rated at 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. The drivetrain configuration allows the Trax to keep its weight down, boost interior space, and enhance safety crush zones

Pricing will be announced closer to its on sale date, which is expected to be sometime early next year

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