2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI First Look
Coming this spring is the feistiest version of the all-new Jetta; the small, sporty GLI.
Marking its 6th generation, the 2019 GLI swaps the Jetta’s 1.4-liter engine for the GTI’s 2.0-liter turbo, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque – increasing its power over the previous generation.
2019 FORD EDGE REVIEW
So you’re considering an Edge; good timing. Ford has updated their 5-passenger midsize SUV for the 2019 model year to keep it a compelling choice.
Though most Ford shoppers opt for the smaller Escape or larger Explorer, the venerable Edge is still a big volume player for the brand. It has staying power, name recognition and has long since received positive reviews from me. Built upon Ford’s CD4 platform which also underpins products such as the Fusion and Lincoln Continental, this 2nd generation Edge debuted for the 2015 model year and moves into 2019 refreshed with a new look and host of new features.
So the 3.5-liter V6 is no longer, replaced across the board, with the exception of the sporty ST, with this 2.0-liter turbo making marginally more horsepower than before and working through a new 8-speed automatic producing relatively impressive fuel economy of 23mpg on regular unleaded.
2019 HYUNDAI SANTA FE REVIEW
This all-new Santa Fe showcases Hyundai’s bolder and bigger design language and really reignites the brand’s mojo which has been slipping in recent years. This 2019 model is the most complete, family-oriented SUV in its segment. It’s that good. Now, if you’re on a tight budget there’s the front-drive Santa Fe SE for under $25,000. But 6 trim levels up is this range-topping Ultimate 2.0T AWD for $39,970 before any available incentives. And that includes everything the Santa Fe offers as standard. It’s incredibly well-stocked, drives with a reassuring polish and pays special attention to cabin aesthetics and ergonomics. It recaptures the MO from Hyundai’s maturation process; providing a generous, modern package at a price that undercuts the competition.
At 235 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, the 2.0-liter turbo’s output doesn’t wow on paper but it never feels inadequate, producing strong low-end acceleration, mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission that doesn’t interfere with the fluid driving experience. I also like having this Smart drive mode in addition to the Comfort and Sport settings that automatically selects the proper steering effort, engine and transmission control logic based on the driver’s habits. It works really well and helps save a little gas and that’s a good thing, because at 21mpg the Santa Fe trails the more powerful Ford Edge by 2mpg in mixed driving and 4mpg on the highway.
The interior dimensions of the Santa Fe have grown to give 2nd row passengers more space. And, there’s more cargo room behind these seats. All told it’s a great place to spend time with this beautiful panoramic sunroof, 2 USB ports, slide and recline heated seats, and window sunshades.
ADVENTURE-READY 2019 HONDA PASSPORT LAUNCHES INTO DEALERS ON FEBRUARY 4
The all-new 2019 Honda Passport begins arriving at Honda dealerships nationwide on February 4, filling out Honda’s award-winning SUV lineup and delivering a unique combination of on-road driving refinement and off-road capability along with best-in-class interior space.
ALL NEW AUDI TT 20TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION ARRIVES IN SHOWROOMS
Featuring unique TT Anniversary Edition interior design details, including the original baseball stitch, and “20 Years of TT” badging
Available in coupe and roadster and painted in either Aviator Gray pearl metallic, or – exclusive to the U.S. – Nimbus Gray metallic
Limited number available in U.S. and globally
To celebrate two decades of iconic design, Audi of America announces the 20th Anniversary Edition of the Audi TT, now available in U.S. dealer showrooms.
With a limited number of models available in the U.S. and globally, the TT 20th Anniversary Edition features unique design elements that celebrate the heritage of the Audi TT and embody the model’s transcendent design. The limited 20th Anniversary Edition is available in coupe and roadster body style – painted in either Aviator Gray pearl metallic, or – exclusive to the U.S. – Nimbus Gray metallic. A nod to the original TT, all models feature Moccasin Brown Fine Nappa leather with custom-made yellow contrast stitching.