2019 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CROSS
2019 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CROSS QUICK TAKES. The Eclipse Cross offers something truly different in the compact SUV sector. Its coupe styling is combined with Mitsubishi’s SUV functionality and driving experience to create a car which is stylish, rugged and fun to drive. Its global success is proof that the concept is resonating with customers around the world.
Mitsubishi Motors’ first foray into the Coupe SUV segment, the Eclipse Cross is winning customers over with its style: customer surveys show that ‘Design’ is listed as the main reason for purchase.
“The Eclipse Cross offers something truly different in the compact SUV sector,” said Yuichiro Hayashi, Chief Product Specialist. “Its coupe styling is combined with Mitsubishi’s SUV functionality and driving experience to create a car which is stylish, rugged and fun to drive. Its global success is proof that the concept is resonating with customers around the world.”
2019 HYUNDAI VELOSTER R SPEC
TESTDRIVENOW OVERVIEW: 2019 HYUNDAI VELOSTER R SPEC QUICK TAKES. The Veloster merges the design appeal of a sport coupe with the versatility of an additional passenger side rear door in an asymmetrical two-plus-one configuration for easier rear-seat access. From the front, available LED headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights flank a striking new grille design. Functional air curtains add both a visual design cue and an active aerodynamic function. Hyundai’s signature cascade grille shape has morphed into a strong, three-dimensional design that sets the sport coupe apart.
2019 FORD EDGE ST REVIEW
This 2.7-liter engine is the real deal. Making 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque it’s a huge upgrade over the standard Edge’s 2.0-liter engine and gives real credence to the ST badge. You’ll feel the steering wheel tug a little on full throttle, what’s referred to as torque steer, before the all-wheel drive system helps rein it in. When driving for the thrill of performance, it’s all about pressing the S in the center of the rotary dial. You can also put the traction and stability control system in a sport or full-off mode but there’s seemingly little difference in the handling when you do. The ST sticks pretty well no matter what. Ford’s all-wheel drive utilizes a disconnect feature to save gas, letting the front wheels do the all of work without parasitic losses until more grip is needed. You can view the torque bias right here in the gauge display. Unlike the Raptor though, another Ford Performance truck, the Edge’s sport gauges are minimal in scope, dated and small. There’s also no heads-up display which is particularly helpful in a faster drive like this. The 8-speed auto is smart in keeping the revs where you want them but the paddle shifters are hugely disappointing…way to slow to react to your input, especially upshifts. Another sign of age is the lack of drive modes – there’s only normal or sport.
2019 KIA K900 LUXURY QUICK TAKES
The completely redesigned Kia K900 establishes a new standard for luxury, driving dynamics and automotive technology for Kia. The all-new second-generation model combines a dignified and sophisticated exterior design, a beautifully crafted cabin of premium materials, and performance characteristics that befit a world-class flagship sedan. Reimagined in every way, the K900 brings with it an array of new systems and safety features, making it the most technologically advanced Kia ever.
2019 TOYOTA AVALON QUICK TAKES
For its fifth generation, Avalon received an all-encompassing makeover by Toyota’s U.S.-based design, engineering, and manufacturing entities at Calty Design Research Inc. (Calty) in Ann Arbor, Michigan; Toyota Motor North America Research and Development (TMNA R&D) in Saline, Michigan; and Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) in Georgetown, Kentucky, respectively. Spearheaded by Chief Engineer, Randy Stephens, and Calty President, Kevin Hunter, the brain trust masterminded an Avalon that represents multilateral progressiveness – for itself, its diverse group of drivers, and, for Toyota.
The teams minded two keywords throughout their development paradigm: Authenticity and Exhilaration. Both were applied in every area of Avalon’s sophisticated essence, and throughout the four available grades: the athletic XSE (all-new) and Touring, as well as the more opulent XLE and Limited. HV grades include XLE, Limited, and XSE.