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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Dodge Charger: Retro Muscle in a Sleeker Package 2015

The Charger has been the full-size bread-and-butter sedan at Dodge since its revival for the 2006 model year, and the division expects this extensively freshened version to maintain sales momentum when it reaches showrooms next fall

All New Skin

Aside from new aluminum axles and axle housings, the chassis carries over from the current Charger. But the skin is almost all new-grille, headlights, hood, fenders, and rear fascia. The roof and rear doors are the only exterior panels that survive, though the base of the rearmost roof pillar has been pulled aft, giving the rear window a faster slope and visually reducing the rear overhang

The goal of the design team was to imbue the new Charger with a sleek skin that would make this big sedan look smaller and lighter, even though the 2015 dimensions are almost exactly the same as those of the current car. A concurrent objective was to preserve the Charger's four-door muscle car persona

It's fair to say the styling effort was successful. Unveiled at the New York International Auto Show, the new Charger sustains the powerful presence of the current car. Dodge cites the 1969 Charger as the inspiration for the 2015 redesign, from the heyday of the muscle car era even though those '69 models were coupes

New Wheels, Hemi Power

Other new exterior details include projector beam headlamps, LED fog lamps, a three-piece rear spoiler (standard on R/T models), center high-mounted stop lamp, and Dodge's "racetrack" LED taillight array. The wheels are also new for all four trim levels, with six different 20-inch styles, including a forged aluminum set, 20 x 9 inches

The car's muscular persona is backed by Chrysler's 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with 370 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque-in R/T and R/T Road and Track models. The base engine continues to be the 3.6-liter V-6 (292 hp, 260 lb-ft), with 300 hp and 264 lb-ft available in SXT models with the Rallye Appearance Group option package. Both the Hemi and the V-6 are paired with Chrysler's 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic, new with the Charger's Hemi V-8 and the only transmission offered

With the V-6, the Charger is EPA-rated for 31 mpg on the highway, best in class, according to Dodge. All-wheel drive continues to be available, and features a new active transfer case that automatically disconnects the front axle when it's not needed. Dodge engineers claim this feature can improve fuel economy by up to 5 percent

Interior Upgrades

The all-new interior includes new seats, extensive soft touch material on the dash, center console, and door panels, with eight different trim packages, including cloth and leather upholstery choices

The sporty three-spoke steering wheel is new, backed by paddle shifters (optional). A new electronic feature delivers brisk shift times-400 milliseconds, according to Dodge, diminishing to 250 milliseconds in sport mode, which also holds the selected gear to redline. Sporty also applies to the electronic power steering, updated to provide three modes-normal, comfort, and sport-that vary effort to suit the driver's mood

As with almost any of today's new cars, new telematics abound. A standard 7-inch TFT (thin film transistor) programmable screen nestles between the speedometer and tachometer, with programmable info including Dodge Performance Pages. The new center stack embraces a 5.0-inch touchscreen (standard) or 8.4-inch version (optional), with a next generation radio and premium audio options, as well as the available nav system. Chrysler's optional U-Connect Access provides a variety of connectivity features, including a Wi-Fi hotspot and mobile apps

New safety features include lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist; adaptive cruise control capable of a full stop and speed resumption; and forward collision Warning-Plus, which will provide autonomous braking if the driver fails to respond to the situation

As noted, the freshened Charger will go on sale this fall as a 2015 model

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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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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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Chevrolet Suburban LTZ Quick Take 2015

Texas has a well-deserved reputation for big things, from the size of the state to portions of barbequed brisket. So, it was fitting on a recent trip to Dallas for a family wedding that we had an opportunity to drive around in a 2015 Chevrolet Suburban LTZ

This 7-passenger SUV is outsized, riding on a 130-inch wheelbase and measuring 224.3 inches overall. It was great at hauling a lot of people, and on the open road was fairly easy to maneuver. However, in tighter parking garages, it is truly a handful- that's where the rear-view camera and parking sensors with built-in vibrating seat warnings helped tremendously in avoiding contact with other vehicles or stationary objects

SUV usefulness, Corvette pricing

The 2015 model year marks the 80th anniversary of the Suburban nameplate but the latest edition is a far cry from its forebear. There is plenty of the utility part of being an SUV, particularly the load space behind the third row. But there is also a huge luxury component that was never dreamed about when these rather Spartan vehicles first came on the scene. Our test vehicle was richly appointed with stitched leather seating and dash surfaces, beautifully turned out wood trim and classy chrome accents

The Suburban LTZ model we drove had a base price of $64,600 base price and when equipped with the Sun, Entertainment, Destination package that added a power sunroof and navigation, as well as retractable running  boards , adaptive cruise control, and a trailering package, the all-in price came to an eye-popping $72,835

Dressed to impress

Despite, or maybe in Texas, because of the sticker, the Chevrolet Suburban LTZ, clad in black, looks the part of being the preferred ride of a Texas oilman or former U.S. president. It has an impressive size and aggressive good looks thanks to the huge chrome grille and projector beam headlamps. The new design of GM's full-size SUVs have a linear, tailored look that comes off as being more formal than the previous generation that had softer contours

The 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V-8 engine, with 383 lb-ft of torque, provided plenty of power through the smooth-shifting 6-speed transmission.  We never felt that powertrain was ever overwhelmed by the size and weight of the vehicle

While the basic seating and control layout was well-laid out and in most cases easy to use, the touch screen and nav system took a little patience in mastering. There are other easier and more intuitive touch screens out there-the Chevy's took more steps to enter even basic addresses and wasn't very good at offering up lists and alternatives when inputting addresses or points of interest

These minor nits aside, the 2015 Chevrolet Suburban LTZ has the looks, features and performance that would give many luxury full-size SUVs from European manufacturers a run for their money

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