Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT 2015

Aston aficionados in the U.S. seeking more bang for the buck will have something to look forward to this fall with the arrival of the new 2015 Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT. Making its debut in New York, this enthusiast-grade variation of the V8 Vantage theme boast more power and sharper handling to match its competition-influenced appearance - and will open at $102,725, almost $17,000 below the starting price of a base V8 Vantage model

Vantage S performance in a GT

The new V8 Vantage GT can be had in both Coupe and Roadster body styles. It shares performance with the V8 Vantage S, which has a more potent 430-horsepower version of Aston's 4.7-liter naturally aspirated V8 Vantage engine that gives the GT a top speed of 190 mph and lets it charge from 0-60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission. However, the 7-speed Sportshift II transaxle that's standard-issue on the S is available here as an option. To ensure the extra muscle gets put to best use, the new GT also boasts a full-on sport suspension and quick-ratio power steering setup

Visually, the V8 Vantage GT draws its inspiration directly from the successful GT4 racing variant that will be campaigned here and in Europe. Standard exterior enhancements include extensive blackout out trim touches and distinctive graphite-painted diamond-turned light alloy wheels. A selection of optional heritage-themed graphics packages is offered as part of an intentionally limited extras list

Sporty Interior

That same type of fast-paced flair is evident inside the new V8 Vantage GT. Unique cloth/leather/Alcantara trim is used on the door panels and deeply contoured sport buckets - seats first seen on the V12 Vantage S -- while machined carbon, carbon fiber, piano black and satin chrome accent elements add further distinction. Clearly far from Spartan, the fun-focused GT does sacrifice some of the normal Vantage luxo features in the interest of achieving its more affordable price point. That list includes items like cruise control, heated/memory seats, Bluetooth, satellite radio and a primo audio package (although a 1,000W Bang & Olufsen sound system is optional). But despite those missing goodies, hard-core Aston aficionados should still find plenty to like about this new, high-value entry level offering. The 2015 Aston Martin V8 Vantage GT models are expected to arrive in the U.S. starting this fall

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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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Toyota RAV4 Hybrid joins refreshed lineup 2016

Eighth member of the automaker's ever-expanding gas/electric contingent, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid made its world debut in New York. This new greener variant was accompanied by other members of an updated/upgraded 2016 RAV4 family that will include a new SE trim grade

Set to arrive in the fall, Toyota is aiming the 2016 RAV4 Hybrid at young active-lifestyle couples. While offering no specifics on the Hybrid Synergy Drive system that will be fitted to this compact crossover SUV, Toyota did say that in addition to earning superior EPA numbers, the new RAV4 Hybrid also will be quicker off the line and more powerful than its conventional RAV4 counterpart. The 2016 RAV4 Hybrid will be offered in XLE and Limited trim grades, both fitted with Toyota's On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive System with intelligence (AWD-i). In addition to six exterior colors including a new bespoke BLUE, the Hybrid variant will be available with unique 17-inch alloy wheels

A fresher look and new features for all 2016 RAV4 models 

To help enhance the RAV4's appeal in what's become the hottest segment in today's automotive market, Toyota has made a number of significant changes to the entire lineup. All versions feature more aggressively styled front/rear fascia treatments, revised rocker sills and new skid plate garnish elements along with new wheel designs and colors. The RAV4 remix also adds the option to step up to full LED headlights and taillamps

Inside, the roomy RAV4 cabin gains new and more premium trim touches throughout complemented by detail upgrades like an additional front USB port and rear 12V powerpoint, reconfigured cupholders and a dedicated sunglasses holder. Front/rear parking sonar is standard across the board and all but the LE will come with SiriusXM All-Access Radio and a 3-month complimentary trial subscription -- although the entry-level model will now offer a Scout cellphone -- based navigation system. Other available new-for-2016 upgrades include a 4.2-inch multi-information display in the revised gauge cluster, 7.0-inch touchscreen for the Display Audio sound system and a 360-degree Bird's Eye View Monitor. The 2016 RAV4 also will offer the new Toyota Safety Sense system. Standard on the top-line Limited, it complements the existing Star System elements with a Pre-Collision/Pedestrian Pre-Collision System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Alert, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Automatic High Beams

New RAV4 SE adds enthusiast appeal

Those seeking a RAV4 with more dynamic character will find it in the new SE which matches a sport-tuned suspension with a unique front bumper/lower grille, full LED lighting, 18-inch alloy wheels and available two-tone exterior treatment that pairs a Super White, Black Sand Pearl or Electric Storm Blue upper color with a Classic Silver Metallic lower body trim. Inside, the new RAV4 SE features the Limited's SofTex seat coverings and a black headliner while adding SE-spec instrument graphics and the 4.2-inch info display as well as steering-wheel mounted shifter paddles

Specific packaging details as well as pricing and EPA numbers for the entire 2016 Toyota RAV4 lineup will be realesed closer to their actual on-sale dates

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Toyota Tacoma V6 First Review: More Modern, More Efficient, More Capable 2016

Ever since Toyota's little truck was actually little, it has earned a strong reputation for rock-solid reliability and tough, capable off-road performance. When it became the Tacoma, that reputation -- and the size of the truck -- grew. The Tacoma has a fantastic resale value, earning the top spot in Kelley Blue Book's Best Resale Value Awards. It dominates sales in its segment -- the current generation of Toyota's midsize pickup makes up about half of all midsize pickup sales. But as new competition comes to the segment, and the Tacoma continued to age, it was time for an upgrade. And it got a big one for 2016

The Tacoma already had a solid foundation. Its frame is tough enough to handle fairly serious off-roading, and the truck manages to have a nice balance of being easy to park yet offering enough room to carry five passengers and gear. Toyota retained the same frame design, using more high-strength steel, a move that reduced weight while increasing rigidity. The wheelbase is the same, but the truck is longer and wider. Toyota took advantage of the new dimensions to improve interior packaging, increasing leg-, shoulder and hip room in the Access and Double Cabs

New look

The Tacoma's cool new look was inspired by Toyota's off-road race truck heritage. While it still has visual cues that align with previous Tacomas, the new muscular, bold style sets it apart. LED daytime running accent lights are available and there are four wheel and tire combinations, ranging from 16- to 18-inch, and eight exterior colors, three of which are new

We started our drive in the 2016 Tacoma by taking it on the roads near Tacoma, Washington. Our Double Cab is powered by the new Atkinson cycle 3.5-liter V6 with direct and port injection (Toyota's D4S system), which has a self-cleaning feature to remove deposits from the high-pressure fuel injectors. The V6 uses an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission and puts out 278 horsepower, 42 more than the previous 4.0-liter V6 did (with a nominal reduction in torque). Fuel economy is considerably better (the best is an estimated 19 city/24 highway versus the best 2015 V6's 17 city/21 highway). Acceleration is strong and linear, and while mashing the throttle won't snap your head back, there is a clear improvement in power over the 2015 model. The V6 is also available with a 6-speed manual. The 2.7-liter I4, still with 159 horsepower and fuel economy of 19 mpg city/23 highway, carries over. Most 4-cylinder Tacomas will come with the 6-speed automatic, but a 5-speed manual is also available

Changes to the suspension plus the tweaks to the frame make the 2016 Tacoma feel more planted and more stable on-road. Handling feels better, and the ride is comfortable and compliant. The brakes, still discs in front and drums in the rear, use an all-new braking system that has a confident and linear feel

Ready to Work

Toyota has made the Tacoma more capable and easier to use. The lockable tailgate is damped, so it opens quietly and with ease. A new lockable 3-piece hard tonneau cover is available. Buyers still have a choice of 5- or 6-foot beds, but the bed is now deeper, so it can accommodate more cargo. Both towing and payload capacities are higher, the former is now 6,800 pounds up from 6,500, while the latter is 1,620 pounds, up from 1,500

Off-road, the highly capable Tacoma has new features that make trail rides less stressful. Ground clearance is now 9.4 inches at the rear axle, up a bit from 2015. Cool new optional features, such as Crawl Control, works with the 2-speed transfer case to make for fun forays into the backcountry. With this, you set the speed (always low), and the system controls engine and brake torque at each wheel. You don't touch the throttle or brake; Crawl Control takes care of it for you while you focus on steering. We used it on steep grades, both up- and downhill, and it worked beautifully. The new Multi-Terrain Select system, another first in a midsize truck, lets you choose the mode based on the ground you want to drive on, including loose rock, mud and sand, and rock

Tacoma vs. Colorado/Canyon

The new Tacoma doesn't make as dramatic a splash as the Colorado and Canyon did in 2015, but it doesn't have to. It was already a strong competitor; Toyota worked on what needed to be improved, making a relatively old truck new again, and even more competitive. When it comes to cross-shopping the three newest members of the midsize truck segment, buyers will discover each has different priorities. The Colorado and Canyon have interiors that are more like a small SUV or a crossover. They can tow a bit more; have better fuel economy and more horsepower in the I4 and V6. But the Tacoma offers fantastic resale value, tried-and-true reliability, excellent off-road prowess, better payload capacity and convenience and safety features that aren't available in the Canyon and Colorado

When it goes on sale in September, pricing for the 2016 Tacoma will start at about $24,000 for the SR (the work truck), and the 4WD V6 Double Cab will start at around $38,000. People who like the current Tacoma will be thrilled with what Toyota has to offer

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Volvo S60 2016

Broadening the scope of its original on/off-road-oriented wagons, the 2016 Volvo S60 Cross Country will be the automaker's first luxury sedan to wear that iconic name - and to offer the same level of active-lifestyle capability. Getting its global unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show, Alain Visser, Senior Vice President Sales, Marketing and Customer Service says Volvo created the S60 Cross Country to fill an empty niche in the market for a luxurious crossover sedan that combines rugged design cues and a high profile that can deliver the kind of benefits found in a conventional crossover

Like its wagon counterpart first seen last November in Los Angeles, U.S.-spec versions of the 2016 S60 Cross Country will feature standard all-wheel drive and have suspension revisions raising its ride height by 2.5 inches. Other visual include a restyle grille insert and lower front fascia details, plastic fender spats, a unique side sill treatment and a choice of aggressively styled 18-inch and 19-inch wheels wrapped in high-profile tires that help protect the rims from damage while adding comfort and reducing road noise

At launch, the new S60 Cross Country will be fitted with Volvo's inline-5 gasoline engine rated at 250 horsepower and mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Like all other members of the automaker's lineup, expect to see the new family of Drive-E 4-cylinder turbo engines backed by an 8-speed autoshifter eventually added. Pricing for the 2016 Volvo S60 Cross Country will be announced closer to its on-sale date, but is expected to start around $40,000

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