Volvo has launched a new flagship, its all-new midsize luxury sedan, the S90, that replaces the S80 in its lineup. Marketed as a vehicle that celebrates those who follow their own paths, its commercials are set to the inspiring words of American poet, Walt Whitman, and his “Song of The Open Road.”

This subliminal urging to escape the confines of indoor spaces to seek inspiration outside and behind the wheel, is paid off with Volvo luxury, attention to detail, crisp and upscale architecture, and Volvo’s advanced modular product platform – Scalable Product Architecture – that underpins all new Volvo cars in the 90 and 60 Series.

Making a strong first impression, the 2017 S90 has received a car-full of accolades from industry magazine and groups: S90 was a finalist for the 2017 Motor Trend “Car of the Year” and the “2017 North American Car of the Year”; it won the “Roadshow Editor’s Choice Award”, presented by CNET, excelling in multiple areas; it won the NAIAS (North American International Auto Show ) “EyesOn Design Awards” that honor the best production and concept vehicles making their worldwide auto show debut in Detroit; was called “an All-Star” for its “cohesive package of safety, style, sensibility, and supple ride” by the editors of Automobile magazine, and the S90 was awarded Top Safety Pick designation for 2017 by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety).

The S90 is a premium 4-door, 5-seat flagship sedan that carries the confident face of Volvo’s new design language, along with classic Volvo styling cues. Key features include the iconic “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlight design, the new grille and Volvo Iron Mark, and the expressive use of the Volvo word mark on the rear.

Measuring 56.8 inches in height, 195.4 inches in length, and 79.5 inches in width, on a 115.8-inch wheelbase, the Volvo S90 is sleek, rounded and elegant with 9-inch 10-spoke Silver Diamond cut alloy wheels, special trim badges, grille and cosmetic elements; color-coordinated door handles with side decor, illumination with Puddle Lights, a Panoramic Moonroof with Power Sunshade; dual integrated tailpipes; retractable mirrors and tire pressure monitoring system.

The lavish cabin adapts design cues utilized in Volvos XC90 model with new details on the dashboard and instrument panel, including new air blades that stand vertically on each side of the Sensus user interface. Measuring a comfortable, but not spacious
38.7 inches of front headroom with 37.8 inches in the rear; legroom of 42.2 inches up front and 35.9 inches for passengers and front shoulder room of 47.5 with 44.9 inches in row two, the cabin is packed with amenities. A brief list of interior niceties includes Keyless entry; Rear Park Assist Camera; 4-Zone Electronic Climate Control; an Automatic CleanZone Function that lets you and your passengers enjoy clean, healthy cabin air and monitors incoming air -- shutting the cabin's air intakes if harmful substances are detected. You also get a 12.3-inch digital driver display; 224-watt High Performance Audio System with tweeters and woofers; Sensus Navigation; Smart Phone Integration; SiriusXM Satellite Radio; Speech Function; Sun Curtain, Rear Side Door Windows and rear window; Nappa Leather upholstery; ventilated and heated front seats; 10-way, Power Front Driver Seat including Driver Seat Memory; Inscription Carpet; Interior High Level Illumination, headlight high-pressure cleaning; and Road Sign In formation that detects various speed limits and road information signs.

Offering two 4-cylinder engine options (and a Plug-in Hybrid model as well), the T5 models use a 2.0-liter Inline four -cylinder turbocharged engine that puts out 250 hp and 250 lbs.-ft. of torque for an EPA estimate of 34/highway and 23/city. My test T6 AWD powered up with a 2.0-liter In-line four-cylinder turbocharged and supercharged engine that provided 316hp and 295 lbs.-ft. Rated at 31/highway and 22/city, my tests brought in an average of 26.6mpg.

Handing was solid, and road manners were refined, though the suspension was rough at times. S90 was agile, but steering was a bit heavy with minor understeer. Performance-wise, the twin-charged T6 engine was not hesitant and accelerated seamlessly. On the track, a zero-to-60mph sprint was finished off in 5.9 seconds and the quarter-mile was dispatched in 14.4 seconds (hand timed).

Available in four trim options, the S90 T5 Momentum starts at $46,950; the S90 T5 Inscription starts at $49,650; the S90 T6 Momentum starts at $48,100 and my test S90 T6 Inscription based at $58,600. The T8 Hybrid will start at $68,150.

My T6 Inscription added Bright Silver Metallic exterior paint for $595 and was mated to Charcoal Perforated Leather upholstery. A heated steering wheel added $300; the Convenience package added $2250 for a compass in Interior Rear View Mirror, Park Assist Pilot and Front Park Assist, Heated Washer Nozzles, Power Operated Trunklid, 360-degree Surround View Camera, 12 Volt Outlet in Luggage Compartment and Homelink®. Going all out and all upscale, the Luxury Package added $3450 for Nubuck Headliner, Heated Rear Seats, Deluxe Rear Seat Center Armrest and a Backrest Massage. A Graphical Head Up Display added $900 and upmarket sound systems and suspension could have added an additional $4400, but were not on my test vehicle. With destination fees of $995, the sticker as tested was $67,390.


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Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Mazda launched its CX-9 in 2006, as a midsize three-row crossover that laughed in the face of standard SUV boxiness, and offered more carlike handling and a more sculpted look. That first CX-9 shared elements with its Ford brethren, but after 11 years, and now a full season into its second generation, Mazda’s flagship sports-ute stands and rides firmly on its own.

Largely unchanged for the 2017 model year, the mid-trim-level CX-9 Touring adds Smart City Brake Support as a standard feature, an amenity that was previously reserved only for CX-9’s Touring’s available options package as well as Grand Touring and Signature trims. And this year’s model has trimmed down a bit, as my test CX-9 Signature in AWD configuration is 26 pounds lighter with a curbweight of 4301 pounds.

Speaking to the niche’s tech-demanding audience, technology highlights on the CX-9 include an available windshield-projected Active Driving Display; MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment system with 7-inch or available 8-inch, full-color touchscreen display and voice command; standard rearview camera; Multi-function Commander control; Auto-dimming rearview mirror; Standard Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio; BOSE® 12-speaker surround sound system with Centerpoint® and AudioPilot®.

CX-9’s execution of the Mazda KODO—Soul of Motion design lives through its proportion—a long hood, swept greenhouse, large wheels and short overhangs that convey stability and a contained sense of potential energy. At 199.4 inches long, CX-9 is 1.2 inches shorter than its Gen-1 length, but its wheelbase was stretched 2.2 inches to 115.3 inches, benefiting passenger leg room as well as entry to and exit from the rear. CX-9 carries shorter overhangs on both ends than previous models, as its long hood adds a sense of strength through proportions. CX-9 measures 77.2 inches in width and 67.6 inches in height with a ground clearance of 8.8 inches and curb-to-curb turning circle radius in 19.4 feet.

After being named as a finalist for the 2017 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, 2017 World Car of the Year and 2017 World Car Design of the Year, CX-9’s design cues play a role through the KODO architecture concept. CX-9’s exterior flows with a proud front fascia that blends into crisp lines that flow to the rear, a rounded and curvy demeanor and subtle creases. The cabin is ergonomic, thoughtful, high-tech and imbued with upscale inclusions specific to each trim level. The focus of CX-9 continues to be one of being an automotive experience rather than simply another vehicle to get from, place to place.

CX-9’s powertain remains its 2.5-liter inline-4 turbo that delivers 227hp on regular (87-octane) unleaded fuel and 250hp with Premium (93-octane) gas. Torque is 310 lbs.-ft., and the EPA estimate is 20/city, 26/highway in AWD configuration (FWD gets 2mpg better). A week of road tests in mixed-use situations averaged 22.9mpg.

The CX-9 driving experience is marked by responsive steering and a relatively smooth ride on uneven surfaces. Acceleration was steady and predictable, as passing at speed and tackling long uphill grades proved easy tasks. On the track, a zero-to-60mph time of 7.3 seconds and a consistent 15.4-second quarter-mile were fun and stable. Autocross tests showed some top wobble during quick turns, but certainly well within expectations for the niche.

The CX-9 cabin is comfortable, but tight for drivers and passengers over 6-feet tall. Front headroom is 39.3 inches up front without a moonroof, 38.5 in row two and a child-friendly 35.4 inches in row three. Legroom is comfortable at 41.0 in front with 39.4 in row two and a confining 29.7 in row three, and shoulder room comes in at 57.9, 58.1 and 53.1.

The cabin is packed with high-tech and comfort amenities. My test Signature was loaded with such items as Nappa leather-trimmed seats, Auburn-colored interior accents, leather wrapped steering wheel with unique stitching, genuine Rosewood interior trim, power sliding-glass moonroof with sunshade, rain-sensing windshield wipers, heated front seats, windshield-projected Active Driving Display, 12-speaker Bose® Centerpoint® 2.0 Surround Sound System with AudioPilot®, SiriusXM Satellite radio, Mazda Navigation System and much more.

Safety items include i-ACTIVSENSE, which provides active safety features such as Mazda Radar Cruise Control and Blind Spot Monitoring. CX-9 is also outfitted with Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam, Smart City Brake Support, Distance Recognition Support System, Forward Obstruction Warning and Smart Brake Support. And there is also the typical array of airbags, Anti-lock Brake System, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution with Brake Assist, dynamic stability control and traction control system, a tire pressure monitoring system and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children.

The 2017 Mazda CX-9 starts at $31,520 for a front-wheel drive in the Sport trim – AWD starts at $33,320. Touring trim starts at $35,970 (FWD); the Grand Touring trim starts at $40,370 and the new top-of-the-model-line Signature starts at $44,315 for AWD.

My test ride, a CX-9 Signature in Machine Gray Metallic (an extra $300), mated to a Jet Black Mica interior, offered no available major packages as this trim is loaded as is. Mazda Mobile Start (Smartphone-controlled App) added $550 and an Interior Lighting Kit added $350. With a destination fee of $940, my 2017 Mazda CX-9 Signature stickered-as-tested at $45,905.

Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Debuting for the 2001 model year, the Ford Escape was once referred to as the “Baby Explorer”. Now, five years into its third generation, Escape is firmly entrenched as Ford’s No. 2 nameplate behind only the F-Series.

Significantly updated for the 2017 model year, Escape now features more of what Ford says its customers told them they really wanted.

Manufactured at Louisville Assembly Plant in Louisville, Kentucky with a unitized welded steel body, Escape has tweaked its exterior demeanor to create a more confident, rugged persona. The redesigned hood and raised hexagonal grille replaces the old trapezoid, and slimmer headlamps look sexy. In the rear, the liftgate is more upright and pleasing, and the taillamps have also been slimmed.

Inside, a new push-button electronic parking brake replaces the large hand-actuated parking brake, and the gear shifter has been repositioned rearward for improved access to climate controls on the center stack. The redesigned steering wheel is more ergonomic and the center armrest is more comfortable, combining with the other changes for a greater feel of spaciousness.

The 2017 Ford Escape has also updated its engines, replacing a 1.6-liter engine with a new turbocharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost® I-4, and it has added 5 hp to its 2.0-liter EcoBoost® four-cylinder engine. Additionally, Escape is the first Ford vehicle to make Auto Start-Stop technology standard.

The new Escape also features available SYNC® Connect mobile access, which allows owners to use the FordPass® smartphone platform to start, lock, unlock and locate their vehicle.

The 2017 Escape continues in its compact crossover footprint at 178.1 inches in length, 66.3 inches in height and 72.4 inches in width on a 105.9-inch wheelbase. Minimum running ground clearance is 7.9 inches and Escape has a curb weight of 3765 lbs. for its 2.0-liter powerplant and 4WD. When properly equipped, Escape can tow 3500 lbs.

Escape’s engine choices include the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter iVCT inline-4 engine that delivers 168hp and 170 lbs-ft of torque with sequential multiport electronic fuel injection. For the economy minded, a direct-injection 1.5-liter EcoBoost® I-4 with Auto Start-Stop is available, rated at 179hp, with 177-lbs-ft of torque. My test Escape Titanium was powered by a turbocharged direct injection 2.0-liter Twin-Scroll EcoBoost® inline-4 with Auto Start-Stop that supplied 245hp and 275 lbs.-ft. of torque on premium fuel. EPA ratings are 21mpg in city driving and 29mpg on the highway for the 2.5 in FWD configuration; the 1.5-liter EcoBoost® is estimated at 23/30 in FWD and 22/28 in AWD; and my test 2.0 liter EcoBoost® was rated at 20/27 in AWD configuration. A week of mixed-use tests including long interstate drives, and a few off-road excursions, averaged 24.3mpg.

Escape handles and steers in carlike fashion. The rack-and-pinion steering with electric power assist is responsive and predictable, and the MacPherson front struts with stabilizer bar and twin-tube hydraulic gas-pressurized shocks work in concert with an independent double lateral link rear suspension with semi-trailing arms, stabilizer bar, linear-rate springs and monotube hydraulic gas-pressurized shocks to soften many road irregularities, but it is NOT a luxury smooth ride and road noise often permeates the cabin.

Power from the 2.0-liter was strong across all ranges. Passing at speed and uphill grades are conquered without issue, and a zero-to-60mph dash was accomplished in 7.7 seconds during a 15.9-second quarter-mile (hand-timed).

Inside, the cabin is well-appointed and seats five with headroom of 39.9 inches in front and 39.0 in row two. Legroom can be stretched to a maximum of 43.1 inches in row one, while second-row passengers have 37.3 inches. Shoulder room is 55.9 in row one and 55.2 for row two.

My test Escape in Titanium trim also came standard with remote start, power liftgate, reverse sensing system, silver roof rails, dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and SYNC® with SYNC Connect.

The 2017 Ford Escape starts at $23,750 in S trim with the 2.5-liter I-4 engine, and moves to $25,250 for the SE and its 1.6-liter EcoBoost®. My test Escape Titanium in Ruby Red paint, started at $27,645 in 2WD with the 1.5 engine, and came with leather-trimmed 10-way heated power driver and passenger seat, remote start, Blind Spot Information System and a 10-speaker Sony audio system. The Ruby Red paint added $395. Up-powering to the 2.0-liter EcoBoost® engine added $1345 and 4WD upgraded road capabilities for an additional $1750.

The 301A Equipment Package of auto high beams, Enhanced Active Park Assist with Parallel Parking, Park Out Assist, Reverse Perpendicular Parking, Forward and Side Sensing Systems, Bi-Xenon HID headlamps, LED Signature Lighting, heated steering wheel, Lane-Keeping Alert, Lane-Keeping Aid and Driver Alert System, rain-sensing windshield wipers and supplemental PTC heater added $1995.

Adaptive Cruise Control with Pre-Collision Assist added $595; a Panoramic Vista® roof added $1495; roof-rail crossbars added $145; all-weather floor mats added $75; a cargo mat in the back added $90; a Sony® audio system with SYNC® 3 and Voice-activated Navigation System added $795; side-window deflectors added $89; and destination charges of $895 put the sticker-as-tested at $36,269. Incentives are available and could save you as much as $2500 depending on your region, so check with your dealer.


> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Model Year 2017 is barely into its halfway point, and some carmakers have already begun springing the 2018s on us. So when you read this review of the 2017 Acura TLX, you may already be watching commercials of the 2018 TLX.

While the 2018 TLX is refreshed with a more aggressive and sporty look inspired by the Acura Precision Concept’s signature diamond pentagon grille, paired with changes to the sedan's stance, proportion, wheels and sheet metal, and there are some high-tech additions, the 2017 TLX is noteworthy in its own right, having earned the Consumers Guide “Best Buy” nod in the Premium Midsize Cars segment.

The TLX journey began 30 years ago as the TL, when cars were given alpha-numeric names that meant something other than just being cool numbers and resonant letters. Launched by Acura in 1996, TL was short for “Touring Luxury.” The midsize luxury sedan became TLX in 2014 – replacing both the TL and TSX.

Still in its first generation, with its facelift beginning for the 2018 model, the 2017 TLX last presented a refreshening in 2015, and only a new palette of colors changes this year -- San Marino Red, Lunar Silver Metallic, and Modern Steel Metallic.

Longer and wider than most of its competition in the small-midsize-luxury segment, the exterior “beak” look is underwhelming, and that figures to become striking in 2018. A blend of sports-sedan athleticism and premium refinement, the exterior design embodies taut body surfaces, dynamically sculpted fender arches, and purposeful character lines in small sports-sedan proportions.

Assembled at Honda’s Marysville, Ohio Auto Plant, TLX is 190.3 inches long, 53.0 inches high and 57.0 inches wide, on a 109.3-inch wheelbase, offering a ground clearance of 5.8 inches.

Inside, the quiet cabin is well-thought-out and offers an abundance of available luxury features and technologies including heated and ventilated front seats, HomeLink®, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, Smart Entry/Push Button Start keyless access system, Acura Navigation System with 3-D view, and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ with Traffic Rerouting. A 7-inch On Demand Multi-Use Display™ touch screen, located in the center console, controls these and other features, and, with its contextual menus, displays relevant items while minimizing instrument panel clutter. The TLX also features AcuraLink®, Acura's cloud-based connected car system.

Comfortable, but not spacious, TLX provides 37.2 inches of front headroom with 36.7 inches in row two. Legroom is a relaxing 42.6 inches in row one, but a tight 34.5 inches in the rear seats; and shoulder room goes 57.5 and 55.4.


TLX powers up with either of two engine choices designed to merge muscle with acceptable fuel economy. The TLX 2.4-liter inline-4-cylinder engine delivers 206 hp and 182 lbs.-ft. of torque for an EPA rating of 24/city, 34/highway and 28/combined mpg on Premium Unleaded 91 Octane; and the direct Injection 3.4-liter V-6 provides 290hp and 267 lbs.-ft. of torque for a 21/31/25 estimate on Premium Unleaded 91 Octane. My week of mixed-use driving with the 3.4-liter V-6 averaged 21.6mpg.

The V-6 proved to be refined and predictable, while imparting a gratifying engine purr. Passing at speed and conquering hills and inclines are accomplished effortlessly, though steering was vague at times, and road feel was often loose.

On the track, my TLX with the 3.5 engine mastered a zero-to-60mph sprint in 6.4 seconds (it seemed quicker behind the wheel) while finishing off a 14.8-second quarter-mile.

The 2017 Acura TLX sedan advances Acura's reputation for delivering cutting-edge safety performance with its AcuraWatch™ suite of technologies. The TLX deploys a cooperative monocular camera and millimeter wave radar system that expands both the fidelity and scope of the vehicle's road-sensing capabilities. This fusion of camera and radar technology underpins the TLX's available Collision Mitigation Braking System™, which can provide enhanced car-to-car and car-to-pedestrian collision mitigation, while also enhancing the capabilities of the Adaptive Cruise Control. Crash tests helped TLX earn a perfect five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It also earned a Good rating in the moderate overlap front, side, and roof strength tests and for its head restraints and seats from the IIHS.

The 2017 Acura TLX starts at $32,000 in Front-Wheel-Drive with the 2.4-liter inline-4 engine. The 3.5-liter V-6 gains you 84hp for $3400 -- included with the V-6 engine upgrade are the dynamic Sequential SportShift paddles, an electronic gear selector, 8-way power front passenger seat with lumbar adjustment and the sporty 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. All-Wheel-Drive adds $2200. The Technology Package adds $4050 for rain-sensing windshield wipers, perforated Milano premium leather-trimmed interior, Acura Navigation System with 3-D view, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ with exclusive street and freeway conditions Traffic Rerouting™, Color Multi-Information Display with turn-by-turn guidance, AcuraLink® The Next Generation, ELS Studio® Premium Audio System with 10 speakers, Song By Voice®, HD Radio®, GPS-linked climate control, and such safety additions as Forward Collision Warning System, Lane Keeping Assist System, Blind Spot Information System and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor. Back-up Sensors add $528, a Decklid Spoiler adds $397 and Body Side Molding adds $259.

With a destination charge of $950, the 2017 TLX as-tested stickered at $43,834, but with the 2018s already being talked up, there may be room to deal.

> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

What began as a mid-size replacement for Buick’s Century and Regal sedans in 2004 (for the 2005 model year), the 2017 LaCrosse begins its third generation as the Tri-Shield badge’s flagship vehicle.

Fully redesigned in 2010 and upmarketed as a full-size premium sedan, LaCrosse has been redesigned again for 2017 with a striking, all-new demeanor, sophisticated technologies and more-responsive performance. Longer, lower and wider than the previous model, the 2017 LaCrosse is built on a stronger, yet lighter structure. It is about 300 pounds lighter than Gen-Two, thanks largely to the use of press-hardened, high-strength steels, which contributes to greater efficiency and more responsive handling. There is also the introduction of “the new face of Buick,” which is influenced by new grille design with a large opening distinguished by the return of a three-color -- red, silver and blue -- Buick Tri-Shield insignia, accented by wing-shaped elements set against darkened waterfall grille bars.

But the new LaCrosse is more than just looks and added tech. The luxury sedan is now powered by a new 3.6-liter V-6 engine paired to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, featuring Stop/Start and Active Fuel Management. This set-up allows the V-6 to operate as a four-cylinder in many conditions.

Once marketed to the 65-70-year-old audience, Buick’s average customer age has dropped to 59, and LaCrosse hits that target by providing all the quietness and luxury that more experienced drivers require, while trending well with younger purchasers who demand high-tech, connectivity, safety, comfort and power to spare in a luxury package.

Vehicle highlights over four trim ranges include IntelliLink® with a frameless 8-inch-diagonal color touchscreen featuring Apple CarPlay; Android Auto and OnStar 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot integration (standard on all trims); a remote vehicle starter system and keyless open and start (standard on all trims); high-intensity discharge headlamps and LED signature lighting; LED taillamps, and the Teen Driver feature (standard on all trims) that allows parents to set controls, review driving habits and encourage safe driving habits even when they are not in the vehicle.

The dark finish version of the Buick waterfall grille bisected by a chrome bar with the three-color version of the Buick logo comes boldly at you in an elegant, forward-motion vehicle design that measures 197.5 inches in length, 73.5 inches in width and 57.5 inches in height on a 114.4-inch wheelbase. The La Crosse weighs in at 3840 lbs. curbweight for AWD.

Inside, the exterior elegance is paid off with interior lavishness, comforts, tech and quietness. With available leather, upgraded sound systems, connectivity, wireless charging and climate system, as well as the new lumbar massaging feature on certain trims, LaCrosse delivers what most buyers want in their luxury sedans.

Interior measurements are a bit tight for taller drivers at 38.4 inches of front headroom without sunroof and 37.2 inches in the rear; legroom is comfortable at 42 inches in row one and 40 inches for rear passengers; and shoulder room affords 57.7 inches up front and 55.1 in row two.

Safety is attended to with 10 standard air bags – including two knee air bags for front passengers; standard rear-vision camera; Forward Collision Alert, Following Distance Indicator and Safety Alert Seat, as well as several additional available safety packages.

From a power perspective, Buick LaCrosse muscles up with a 3.6-liter V-6 DOHC VVT engine with direct injection that delivers 310 hp and 282 lbs.-ft. of torque. Rated at 20mpg/city and 29mpg/highway for AWD, my test LaCrosse Premium averaged 23.3mpg in mixed-use driving.

On the highway, LaCrosse accelerated smoothly and predictably, handled well, showed minimal torque steer, cornered with aplomb and leveled road imperfections as expected from a luxury sedan.

On the track, the 3.6-liter showed a broad torque curve and finished off a zero-to-60mph sprint in 6.2 seconds during a brisk 14.7-second quarter-mile –that’s a half-second faster than my last test ride in a Gen-Two LaCrosse.

Available in four trims, the base LaCrosse starts at $32,990; the LaCrosse Preferred trim adds a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, SiriusXM radio and a cargo net and starts at $36,990; the LaCrosse Essence adds leather-appointed seating, heated front seats, memory settings for two drivers, auto-dimming rearview mirror and articulating headlamps and starts at $38,590; and the top-of-the-line LaCrosse Premium trim adds a heated steering wheel, 4-way lumbar with massage front seats, head-up display, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
Side Blind Zone Alert with Lane Change Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Safety Alert Seat, and starts at $41,990.

My test Buick LaCrosse Premium added AWD for $2,200; Quicksilver Metallic exterior paint added $395 and was matched to Ebony perforated leather inside; Driver Confidence Package #2 added adaptive cruise control, automatic park assist, front automatic braking and front pedestrian detection for $1690; the Sights and Sounds Package added Buick IntelliLink® Radio with Navigation and Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound for $1145; a rear lip spoiler added $415; cool chrome air vents on the front quarter panels added $495; custom molded splash guards added $300; premium carpeted floor mats added $190 and Destination Freight Charges of $925 put the sticker-as-tested at $48,820.

> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

The all-new Infiniti QX30 premium active crossover was created for a new generation of premium buyers who appreciate category-defying design inside and out. As all Infiniti SUVs and crossovers now bear the QX badge the new QX30 remains true to the powerful and elegant design cues that guided the original QX30 concept, with a highly sculpted exterior, unique crossover stance and asymmetric cabin design exemplify Infiniti’s design-led approach to product development.

While its being a true crossover can be debated -- any off-road capability seems to be “soft-road” -- this compact SUV is luxurious and comes with German heritage despite its Japanese parent (Nissan) and its assembling in Sunderland, UK. The 2017 QX30’s engines are assembled in Germany, and it shares the Mercedes-Benz GLA’s structure, engine, and transmission.

The all-new QX30 combines a crossover appearance with signature Infiniti design cues and provides a balance of coupe sportiness, utility and 5-door versatility. It delivers a confident drive and versatile attitude, aided by intelligent all-wheel drive intuitive technologies to enhance safety, comfort and convenience. The architecture provides the look and feel of a luxury coupe with a lavish cabin and a smooth, coupe-like roofline. Showing a wide stance, QX30 is 174.2 inches long, 82.0 inches wide and 59.4 inches high on a 106.3-inch wheelbase. Its step-in height is 16.5 inches and minimum ground clearance is 6.8 inches. Curbweight is 4277 lbs. for the Luxury trim version in AWD.

QX30 is built with unibody construction utilizing high-strength corrosion-resistant steel and an aluminum hood. The QX30 exterior is characterized by dramatic curves and turbulent, sculpted character lines, with dynamic shapes to create a purposeful appearance. Standard exterior features include signature LED daytime running lights and auto on/off halogen headlights, with available LED headlights with Active Front lighting System (and auto high/low beam function), and LED fog lights. A panoramic moonroof and roof rails are also offered.

The QX30 Luxury AWD and QX30 Premium AWD also include unique front and rear lower fascias, extended overfenders, unique black mold-in color side sills, roof rails, unique 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and a higher ride height.

The bold Infiniti design approach continues inside, with QX30 challenging traditional standards of symmetry through its expressive, modern and dynamic interior.
The asymmetric surfaces feature wave shapes and forceful lines that twist apart and flow away from the driver. These give an "in-motion" feel when natural light moves over the highly sculpted lines and contrasting materials in the cabin.

Premium materials and processes were selected by the Infiniti designers in order to create a modern-looking and luxurious cabin. The standard interior is finished in high quality black Fibretec, while optional black or beige Nappa leather appointments (standard on QX30 Luxury) deliver an even more premium finish.

With seating for five, the QX30 cabin fits the small crossover niche and is a tight fit for taller drivers and occupants. Front headroom with a moonroof is 38.4 inches, with rear headroom at 37.5 inches – cramped for anyone over 6-feet tall. Shoulder room is 54.8 inches in the first seats and 53.1 in the second row, and leg room is a comfortable 41.3 inches in the first row, but only child-accommodating 33.5 inches for rear-seat passengers. Outward sightlines are hampered but the overall road experience is quiet.

Power is delivered by the standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged unit that is rated at 208 horsepower, with peak torque of 258 lbs.-ft. available from 1,200 – 4,400 rpm. Turbo pressure keeps the power sufficient when called upon, and the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission system provides seamless acceleration. Highway acceleration is predictable, and on the track, a zero-to-60mph sprint was finished in a brisk 6.7 seconds during a 15.2-second quarter-mile. EPA rated at 25mpg/city and 32mpg/highway, my week of tests yielded an average of 19.1mpg in mixed-use driving.

The comfort level was pampering, with the MacPherson front struts and 23mm stabilizer bar working well with the multi-link independent rear and its stabilizer bar to level most road inconsistencies.

From a safety perspective, QX30 is among the safest cars in its class owing to a range of active safety and hazard avoidance technologies that enhance the driving experience and provide a high level of safety to all occupants. And an Around View Monitor with moving object detection and Intelligent Parking Assist make the QX30 a maneuverable and easy-to-park vehicle.

The base 2017 QX30 starts at $29,950; QX30 Luxury starts at $32.600; QX30 Premium starts at $35,300; QX30 Sport starts at $38.500; QX30 Luxury AWD starts at $34,400 and the QX30 Premium AWD starts at $37,700.

My test QX30 Luxury in AWD included all QX30 Luxury trim features plus Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD); 18-inch machine finished aluminum-alloy wheels; unique front and rear AWD styling; extended overfenders with unique sill panels; roof rails and a raised AWD suspension. Upgrades from the base QX30 included Nappa leather-appointed seating; 8-way power front seats; 4-way power front passenger lumbar; memory seats and mirrors; heated seats and Leatherette-appointed and stitched dash insert.

Loaded as a trim, few extras were needed. All-season floor mats added $125; a reversible cargo protector mat added $95; Infiniti WiFi added $495 and Destination and Handling added $995 for a sticker-as-tested of $36,110.



> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Arguably the first sports-utility or multi-purpose vehicle built, Jeep began the concept with its General Purpose military transport in 1941. Its Grand Cherokee debuted in 1992, and in the quarter-century since, Grand Cherokee has been an award-winning off-road and around-town luxury sports-utility vehicle that performs equally well at upscale occasions, off-road and while towing boats, toys and workloads.

And the awards continue in 2017, as “Car Connection” editors selected the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee as “Best SUV to Buy” and “Consumers Digest” named it “Best Buy” for the seventh consecutive year. And The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 has earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA -- the highest single rating in NHTSA’s vehicle-evaluation program.

Assembled at the Jefferson Avenue North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan, Grand Cherokee continues on its theme as a Premium SUV with a refined exterior design — complete with available bi-xenon headlamps with signature LED daytime running lamps. Also new for 2017 are a rearview camera and rear park sensors that are now standard on all Jeep Grand Cherokee models; three new exterior paint schemes – Diamond Black, Rhino and Walnut Brown; and many model- or trim-specific upgrades. For example, the new Trailhawk model expands the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup with most capable version ever produced and features red tow hooks in the front and rear, standard rugged 18-inch Goodyear Adventure off-road tires with Kevlar reinforcement, and new Trailhawk and Trail Rated badges with red accents. Trailhawk also features a cornucopia of off-road features and interior specializations and other trims have upgraded interiors as well.

The four-door multi-purpose vehicle is a front-engine vehicle offered in rear- or front-wheel-drive, and is made with steel uniframe construction, and the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo, Limited, Overland, and Trailhawk models utilize front fascia and seven-slot Jeep grille that debuted on the 2016 Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary edition. Key exterior features include front and rear LED lighting, and bi-xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps that are outlined with signature LED running lamps. The front and rear feature unique lower fascias for every trim level and a large, aerodynamic rear spoiler.

I tested the Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, which weighed in at 4875 lbs. (curbweight), and measured 189.8 inches in length, 84.8 inches in width at the mirrors (body width is 76.5 inches), and 69.3 inches in height at the roof rails, on a 114.8-inch wheelbase, with a load floor height of 32.4 inches, sill step-in height of 20.5 inches and a minimum ground clearance of 8.6 inches.

Grand Cherokee offers four engine choices including HEMIs and an Eco-Diesel. The standard engine, which also powered my test Grand Cherokee Limited, is the economical 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 Engine that provides 295 hp and 260 lbs.-ft. of torque for an EPA rating of 17/city and 24/highway – my week of testing in wintry conditions and included some off-road play, averaged 20.5mpg. A 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 is also available with 360 hp and 390 lbs.-ft. of torque, and choices also include a 3.0-liter Ecodiesel V-6 with 240 hp and 420 lbs.-ft., and on the SRT model, a 6.4-liter V-8 is standard, to power up with 475 hp and 470 lbs.-ft.

All of Jeep Grand Cherokee’s engines are mated to the ZF automatic eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers quick acceleration and precise, smooth shifting. While the engine noise that filled the cabin was greater than expected, acceleration was steady on the highway and toque provided good off-road power when called upon. At the track, a dash from zero-to-60mph was polished off in 7.8 seconds during a 16.0-second-flat quarter-mile.

The cabin seats five and is well-crafted, technically enhanced and comfortable. Interior accommodations provide 39.9 inches of front headroom and 39.2 in row two; first row legroom is 40.3 inches with 38.6 in the second row with 4.3 inches of knee clearance, and shoulder room is 58.7 inches in front with 58 inches in row two.

The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is offered in nine trim styles in 4x2 or 4x4 configurations, beginning with the base Laredo 4x2 at $30,395 and moving through the Laredo E at $32,695; 75th Anniversary Edition at $34,775; Altitude at $36,395, Limited (my test ride) at $37,995, Trailhawk at $43,095, Limited 75th Anniversary Edition at $43,605, Overland at $44,795; Summit at $50,495 and the super-powered SRT goes $66,895.

My Velvet Red Pearl Coat test Grand Cherokee Limited in 4x4 configuration -- for an extra $2000 – came with the 3.6-liter engine -- the 5.7 HEMI would have added $3295. The Luxury Group II added $4300 for a 506-watt amplifier, 9 amplified speakers with subwoofer, Automatic High Beam Headlamp Control, Automatic Headlamp Leveling System, Bi-Xenon HID Headlamps, Dual-Pane Panoramic Sunroof, LED Daytime Running Headlamps, Power Tilt / Telescope Steering Column, Uconnect® 8.4 with 8.4-Inch Touchscreen Display, GPS Antenna Input, Integrated Voice Command with Bluetooth® and Ventilated Front Seats.

The Keep Active Safety Group was $1495 and upgraded safety with Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, Advanced Brake Assist, Forward Collision Warning systems, Lane Sense®, Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist and Rain-Sensitive Windshield Wipers. Blind Spot and Cross Path Detection added $595. With Destination Charges of $1095, my 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited-as-tested, stickered at $45,980.

> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been
writing professionally for about 30 years.

The Honda CR-V has been the best-selling entry-SUV since its launch in 1995 as the Comfortable Runabout Vehicle. It debuted as a small SUV that met the need for a daily driver that could go off road while satisfying varied lifestyles. CR-V has since been upgraded to add elegance, sportiness, state-of-the-art tech and entertainment, more power and better fuel economy.

Last redesigned for 2012, the 2017 CR-V begins its fifth generation with a new chassis, more aggressive styling, and an available turbocharged engine.

New for 2017 are more than 60 changes that have been made to the CR-V’s body to increase safety performance through better energy absorption; enhance dynamic performance with increased body stiffness; and improve noise, vibration and harshness. North American-built, the new CR-V is produced at three plants -- East Liberty, Ohio; Alliston, Ontario, Canada; and Greensburg Indiana -- and its engines are manufactured in Anna, Ohio and in Alliston, Ontario.

The new CR-V styling heads in a fresh direction with an aggressive attitude, thanks to crisper and sharper front-end design elements, aggressive stylized headlights surrounded by a wing-shaped LED DRL array on all models, and wide, muscular fenders. The long hood, longer wheelbase, short rear overhang and new dual exhaust outlets give the 2017 CR-V a more sophisticated and athletic presence.

The CR-V's new windswept front end appearance includes signature Honda LED headlights (Touring trim), a Honda-first Active Shutter Grille system that lowers aerodynamic drag, uprated aluminum alloy wheel sizes to 17 or 18 inches on all trims, narrower A-pillars for improved visibility, and sporty dual exhaust.

The revised CR-V is higher and longer, with a wider stance, as the compact SUV gains 1.2 inches in length over the previous generation and now measures 180.6 inches in length, 66.5 inches in height (a gain of 1.4 inches), and 73.0 inches in width (up 1.4 inches) on a 104.7-inch wheelbase, an increase of 1.6 inches. Curbweight comes in at 3421 for my test vehicle, taking off about 130 lbs. from a similar Gen-4 model I tested two years ago.

The 2017 CR-V in EX and higher trims are powered by CR-V's first-ever turbocharged engine, a 1.5-liter DOHC, Direct-Injected and turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder engine with dual Valve Timing Control, delivering refined and responsive performance across the engine's full operating range. Combined with the CR-V's more aerodynamic body, models equipped with the new turbocharged powerplant have the highest EPA fuel economy ratings in the compact SUV class (non-hybrid).

CR-V LX trims are powered by a 2.4-liter DOHC direct-injected i-VTEC engine with Variable Timing Control. Both engines are mated to a smooth shifting and sporty continuously variable transmission with Honda G-Shift control logic. The 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine produces 184 hp and 180 lbs.-ft. of torque, and the 1.5-liter turbo is rated at 190hp and 170 lbs.-ft. of torque. In AWD, the 2.5 is EPA rated at 25/city, 31/highway and 27/combined mpg. My test turbo, rated at 27/city, 33/highway and 29/combined in AWD, averaged 28.1mpg in mixed-use driving.

On the highway, acceleration is predictable, with sure passing power, but on the track, CR-V lumbered through a zero-to-60mph sprint in 9.1 seconds during a 17.0-second quarter-mile. The MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear, both with stabilizer bars provide a family-friendly riding experience and steering is responsive for the niche, with minor understeer.

The 2017 CR-V raises the bar for interior refinement, utility and premium features in the compact SUV class. Spacious inside, the quiet cabin is accommodating, filled with electronics and comfort items and is thoughtfully laid out. Passenger volume is up by 1.8 cu.ft. to 105.9 cu. ft. Interior room measures 40.1 inches of front headroom and 39.2 in row two – slight gains over last year; Legroom is 41.3 inches in front and 40.4 inches for the second seats – more than 2 inches of increased rear seat room, and shoulder room measures 57.9 and 55.6 – an inch less than last year.

The fifth-generation CR-V incorporates premium active safety, passive safety and driver-assistive features, including Honda Sensing™ technology, now offered as standard equipment on EX and higher trims. Utilizing Honda's next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ body structure, the 2017 CR-V targets the highest available collision safety ratings, including an NCAP 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the IIHS, including a SUPERIOR rating for frontal crash prevention when equipped with Honda Sensing.

CR-V is offered in four trim packages in both AWD and 2WD. The Base LX starts at $24,045 and the EX trim I tested starts at $26,695 for the 2WD -- and you gain the Turbo engine, Honda Sensing™, Smart Entry and a 7-inch display audio touchscreen. EX-L starts at $29,195 gaining leather inside, a power liftgate, power seats and auto-rearview mirror. The top-of-the-line Touring trim starts at $32,395 in 2WD and picks up a hand-free access power tailgate, full LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers and satellite-linked navigation. My EX in AWD (for $1500 more) based at $28,195. Body side molding added $225, roof rails were $399, running boards were $549, splash guard set added $104, back-up sensors added $528 and destination and handling charges were $940, for a sticker-as-tested of $30,515.

> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Scheduled for a full makeover for 2019, Toyota’s three-row family SUV, the Highlander, nears the end of its third generation, which debuted in 2014. In January 2001, Highlander became the first car-based midsize SUV or midsize crossover available in North America, and it has been a solid seller for Toyota ever since.

Fast-forward to 2017, Highlander has earned a solid rep for being the right size for family use, with good economy for the niche and easy maneuverability for in-town and soft-road utility.

This year’s edition is 1.35 inches longer for improved dynamics; the top engine gains 25 horsepower and 15 lbs.-ft. of torque; sportier styling has refreshed the SE trim; the hybrid line-up has been expanded to four grades and Highlander adds more safety features to gain it an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ ranking – qualifying for the award with standard equipment.

The Highland exterior has been tweaked with revised front and rear styling and enhanced interior convenience and comfort. Up front, the grille is larger and bolder and the new LED taillights are crisp and lithe. And the interior has been enhanced in the areas of convenience and comfort.

Safetywise, Highlander is among numerous Toyotas employing the innovative Toyota Safety Sense™ P driver-assist technology as standard. Using millimeter-wave radar and a monocular camera sensor to detect a preceding pedestrian, a preceding vehicle, and visible lane markers in the surrounding area, TSS-P can help the driver identify obstacles and automatically apply braking if necessary to help mitigate or avoid collisions in certain conditions. TSS-P includes the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection function; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist function; Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Automatic High Beams.

Sophisticated and dynamic, Highlander features a progressive silhouette, a low roofline for improved aerodynamics, and sculptured side-door panels. Dimensions for Highlander measure 192.5 inches long, 75.8 inches wide and 68.1 inches high on a 109.8-inch wheelbase, to offer 8.0 inches of ground clearance and a towing capacity of 5000 lbs., with a curbweight in Limited trim of 4495 lbs.

The 2017 Highlander is available in 4-cylinder and V-6 powertrain configurations. The 2.7-liter 4-cylinder is mated to a 6-speed Electronically Controlled automatic transmission with FWD, and with intelligence (ECT-i), sequential shift mode and snow mode. The system provides 185hp and 184 lbs.-ft. of torque for an EPA estimate of 20mpg/city, 24mpg/highway and 22/combined.

The 3.5-liter V-6 engine is rated at 295hp and 263 lbs.-ft- of torque, coupled with a Direct Shift – 8AT, 8-speed Electronically Controlled automatic transmission with intelligence in either FWD or AWD, for an EPA fuel rating of 20mpg/city, 26mpg/highway and 22mpg/combined for AWD.

My test Highlander Limited’s 3.5-liter finished a week of mixed-use driving in wintry conditions, with an average of 21.9mpg. Acceleration and performance were confident and responsive at speed and off the line, as tests polished off a zero-to-60mpg dash in 7.7 seconds while completing 16-second quarter-mile.

Independent MacPherson front struts with an L-shaped lower arm and a stabilizer bar, worked with a trailing arm double wishbone rear, Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive, optimized electric power steering and enhanced fine tuning of springs and shocks to demonstrate solid grip, handling and a road-smoothing experience.

Inside, the quiet cabin seats seven with 39.5 inches of front headroom (with moonroof), 39.6 in row two and 35.9 inches in row three; leg room is 44.2, 38.4 and a child-worthy 27.7 in row three, with shoulder room of 59.3, 59.6 and 55.0. And the Limited trim cabin is packed with infotainment and amenities upgraded with Entune™ Premium JBL®Audio with Integrated Navigation and App Suite. Blue LED ambient lighting around the dash and doors adds a touch of high-tech elegance, and comfortable second-row captain’s chairs, perforated leather-trimmed seats, heated and ventilated front seats, a 4-way power passenger seat and memory settings for the driver seat and side mirrors set the luxury tone for driver and passengers.

Available in LE, LE Plus, XLE, SE, Limited and Limited Platinum trims, as well as four Hybrid trims starting at $36,270, the gas-version Highlander starts at $30,630 for the base model and tops out with the Limited Platinum starting at $46,260, My test Limited based at a $43,140 starting price that included the Toyota Safety Sense™ P (TSS-P) package, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Rear Parking Assist Sonar, Integrated Backup Camera, Smart Key System+ Liftgate with Push Button Start, Leather-Trimmed Steering Wheel, Tilt/Telescopic Steering Wheel, Heated/Ventilated Front Seats, Perforated Leather-Trimmed Front- and Second-Row Seats, Seating for Seven With Second-Row Captain's Chairs and 60/40 Split Third-Row Seats, Multi-Information Display, Roll-Top Center Console, Soft-Touch In-Dash Shelf, Three-Zone Automatic Climate Control, Entune™ Premium JBL®Audio with Integrated Navigation and App Suite, Height-Adjustable Power Liftgate and Flip-Up Rear Hatch, Chromtec® Roof Rails and a Moonroof.

Ooh La La Rouge Mica (Red) paint was matched to a Black Perforated Leather interior. Body Side moldings added $209, Door Edge Guards added $125, Roof Rack Cross Bars added $350, Running Boards added $599, Carpet Floor Mats added $129 (but I would opt for the all-weather floor liner package at $249 instead), Remote Engine Starter added $499. With Delivery, Processing and Handling fees of $960, my test 2017 Toyota Highlander Limited stickered at $46,011.

> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

The Lexus RX remains America’s best-selling luxury SUV, as it has since its launch in 1998. Using 350 and 450 as its designated line names, the 350 is outfitted with a 3.5-liter engine, typical of a 350 designation, but the 450h is also equipped with the 3.5 (along with a hybrid electric motor), as Lexus deviates from the alpha-numeric norm.

After introducing the all-new fourth-generation RX 350 and RX 450h Hybrid luxury utility vehicles for 2016, Lexus opens the RX model’s second season with such advancements as making the Lexus Safety System+ standard equipment. Introduced as an option for 2016, Lexus Safety System+ includes Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beam and High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

Also new for 2017 are rain-sensing wipers standard on RX 350 models; an auto-brake function added to the Intuitive Parking Assist and Rear Cross monitor system; a new F SPORT FWD Model added to the line-up and Atomic Silver added to the color palette.

While the Lexus RX has been marketed as a combination of SUV versatility and luxury sedan-like comfort, it also stands out in the segment with a dramatic mix of sculpted creases and elegant curves. The focal point of the front is the Lexus signature spindle grille, set off by a lavish chrome-plated border and standard Bi-LED headlights.

The available L-shaped premium LED headlights are accompanied by 18 individual LEDs that surround the headlights and act as turn signal indicators. The spindle theme repeats at the rear, where L-shaped LED taillights envelope the tailgate and wrap into the rear fenders. Capping off the design is a floating-roof effect created by sophisticated blacked-out C-pillars.

The 4387-lb. (for the AWD) RX 350 measures 192.5 inches long, 74.6 inches wide and 67.7 inches high on a 109.8-inch wheelbase. Ground clearance is 8.2 inches and maximum towing capacity is 3500 lbs.

The RX 350 is powered in either a full-time all-wheel drive (AWD), or front-engine, front-wheel drive (FWD), by a 3.5-liter V-6 aluminum block engine, matched to an 8-speed Automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission. The system delivers 295 hp and 267 lbs.-ft. of torque, and the transmission, with “intelligence”, accelerates car-like, but you perceive truck confidence, as you quickly and seamlessly hit speed without feeling as though you are going that fast -- so watch your speedometer. On the track, my test RX 350 dashed from zero to 60mph in 7.6 seconds (hand-timed) during a 16.0-second (hand-timed) quarter-mile – and at 80mph, within the luxurious and well-thought-out surroundings, it really felt as if I were going 60. The Lexus RX 350 is EPA rated at 19/26/22 for AWD, my test ride averaged 21.8mpg in mixed-use tests.

The RX’s electric power rack and pinion steering with electronic power assist is a bit vague, with a bit of understeer, and quick turns result in some top-wobble. But the ride is luxury-smooth, as the all-wheel-drive set-up and the MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and the rear double wishbone, flattened out most inconsistencies encountered on the road.

The cabin is packed with intuitive, indulgent and high-tech conveniences. Interior dimensions are generous at 39.4 inches up front and 39.1 in the rear; legroom is 44.1 inches in row one and 38.0 inches in row two; and shoulder room is 57.8 and 57.6. The cabin is packed with too many amenities to fully list, but they include: automatic dual-zone climate control; dust and pollen particle and deodorizing interior air filter; dual sliding sun visors; electrochromic rearview mirror with compass; power door locks with anti-lock out feature; power tilt-and-telescopic steering column; power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature; steering wheel audio controls; Lexus Display Audio with an 8-inch screen and nine speakers; backup monitor and Bluetooth® hands-free phone and automatic phonebook download capabilities.

Safety items are also plentiful and include side impact door beams, a supplemental restraint system consisting of dual-stage and dual-chamber driver’s and front passenger’s airbag, driver and front passenger knee airbags, front side airbags, rear side curtain airbags and front and rear seat-mounted airbags; a tire pressure monitor system with available tire inflation display function; active front headrests; vehicle theft-deterrent and engine immobilizer system.

The base 2017 Lexus RX 350 starts at $43,020 in front-wheel drive and $44,420 in all-wheel drive. The dynamic sport-tuned RX 350F Sport starts at $48,920 (FWD) and $50,320 (AWD). The 450h (gas-electric Hybrid) starts at $53,035 with the RX 450h F Sport basing at $56,495.

My all-wheel-drive test RX 350 in Eminent Pearl White with a Black Leather/Espresso Walnut trim interior added the $2770 Navigation/Mark Levinson Package with a 15-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound Audio System, Navigation System, 12.3-inch color multimedia display, Lexus Enform App Suite, in-dash DVD/CD player, remote touch and climate control smog sensor. The Premium Package, for $980, added a rear armrest storage compartment, rain-sensing wipers, leather interior trim, electrochromic outside mirrors, roof rails and the Lexus Memory System. A power moonroof added $1100, running boards were $639, Intuitive Parking Assist added $535, and a Touch-Free Power Open/Close rear door added $200. With delivery fees of $995 my test RX350 stickered at $51,619.


> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

The 2017 Nissan Rogue upgrades last year’s model with extensive enhancements, including an optional new hybrid powertrain, updated exterior styling, a refined interior and advanced safety, security, connectivity and driving aid features.

This year’s nuances include revised available optional equipment packages with new content as well as three new ones – Sun and Sound Touring, Platinum and Platinum Reserve interior. In addition, other available packages include the Family Package, Appearance Package and Premium Package; all available on several trim levels.

Rogue embarked on its second generation in 2014 and improves on the theme this year -- a fact that is not lost on automotive judges. Cars.com selected the redesigned crossover as its “2017 Family Car of the Year.” Rogue has also been named a 2017 Consumer Guide® Automotive Best Buy Award winner and The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the 2017 Rogue a "Top Safety Pick Plus" (TSP+) vehicle safety rating.

Rogue’s updated exterior styling features designed to enhance Rogue's robust, dynamic presence. They include a new front fascia with integrated fog lamps, bumper, Nissan signature “V-Motion” grille and revised headlights with LED signature daytime running lights. In the rear, a new bumper and revised rear combination lamps with LED boomerang signature taillights have been added, while new chrome-trim side door moldings complete the freshened appearance.

With mid-size crossover dimensions, Rogue measures 184.5 inches long; 72.4 inches wide and 66.6 inches high on a 106.5-inch wheelbase. Minimum ground clearance is 8.2 inches (AWD) and curbweight for the AWD in SV trim is 3554 lbs.

Rogue’s refined interior is enhanced with a new D-shaped steering wheel and leather-booted sport-mode shifter, available heated steering wheel, memory for driver's seats and mirror, and remote engine start. New design features include tweaked door and instrument panel finishers, fresh shift knob design, revised center console and console lid and fashionable seat fabric. The result is a more premium look and feel.

While thick rear roof pillars create a large blindspot, and the side curtain airbags limit headroom for second-row passengers, Rogue’s cabin is spacious for a midsize SUV at 41.6 inches of front headroom, 38.5 inches in row two and 34.6 in row three, meaning the third row is best left for small children. Interior legroom is roomy in front at 43.0 inches for row one, comfortable in row two at 37.9 inches and a child-friendly 31.4 for row three. Shoulder room is 56.6 in row one and 55.9 and 49.3 in rows two and three, and Rogue offers 32-cubic-feet of cargo area.

Rogue’s standard power source remains its 170-horsepower, 175 lbs.-ft. of torque, transverse 2.5-liter inline-4-cylinder DOHC engine, mated to an Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission) with standard Sport Mode and Eco switches. With an EPA rating of 25/city, 32/highway and 28/overall, my week of mixed-use testing yielded an average of 26.7mpg. On the road, acceleration is sluggish, but steady. Uphill grades and passing at speed require strategy and perseverance, and the electric power-assisted power assisted rack-and-pinion steering was often heavy. On the track, the 0-60mph time was 9.1 seconds, and a quarter-mile was a 17.3-second journey.

The optional hybrid is rated at 141 hp and 144 lbs.-ft. of torque and a total system output of 176 hp, and a 31mpg/city, 34mpg/highway and 33mpg/overall rating.

Earning top marks in safety, Rogue Safety Shield technologies include radar-based Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rogue is also available for the first time with Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention. New this year are Intelligent Cruise Control and Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection. Additionally, Rogue is constructed with zone body construction with front and rear crumple zones; energy-absorbing steering column; hood-buckling creases and safety stops; body side reinforcements; shift interlock system; vehicle security system; vehicle dynamic control and traction control system.

The 2017 Nissan Rogue starts at $23,820 for the base S trim in FWD and $25,170 for AWD. The SV with all-wheel-drive started at $26,590. The SV trim adds 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, Nissan Intelligent Key® with push button ignition, blind spot warning , rear cross traffic alert, dual zone automatic temperature control and a 6-way power driver's seat to the base S. The upper-scale Rogue SL I tested starts at $31,310 in AWD and gains a Motion Activated Liftgate; NissanConnect℠ with Navigation, Mobile Apps, and Services; Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection and Leather-appointed seats. The SV Hybrid starts at $27,590 with the SL Hybrid basing at $32,510.

My Monarch Orange test 2017 Rogue SL (premium color that added $395) added a power panoramic moonroof and Forward Emergency Braking for $2020 with the SL Premium Package. The SL Platinum Package, for $770, added 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention, Intelligent Cruise control and Forward Emergency Braking with pedestrian detection. The standard Charcoal Leather seats were upgraded to a Premium Tan-appointed seating look with special quilted leather inserts as part of the Platinum Reserve Interior Package, for $250. Four splash guards added $160; roof rail crossbars were $355 and a chrome rear bumper protector was $155. Adding destination charges of $940, my 2017 Rogue SL-as-tested came in at $36,355.

> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Mitsubishi’s top-selling vehicle is the Outlander, a small crossover for soft-road and around-town utility. Outlander represents Mitsubishi’s attention to an all-season vehicle with good fuel economy and compact size. Carrying the Outlander badge, but in a smaller, sportier and more affordable configuration, the Outlander Sport, debuted in 2011, and has earned its own following.

Outlander Sport remains mostly untouched for 2017. Sport powered up last year with the introduction of a larger and more muscular engine, a 2.4-liter MIVEC 4-cylinder engine that delivers 168 horsepower and 167 lbs.-ft. of torque to join its economical 2.0-liter offering, and those power trains remain intact for 2017. Additionally, following the 2016 additions of Outlander Sport’s “Dynamic Shield” front design concept, 18-inch alloy wheel design and lip wheel moldings, and power folding side door mirrors with turn indicator lamps that contribute to the sleek new architecture, and various cabin and infotainment enhancements, the 2017 editions stands pretty well pat and gains a standard shark fin antenna, standard automatic climate control and upgraded interior seat fabric.

Outlander Sport is rounded and aggressively forward-leaning, utilizing an aerodynamic, low-drag body design with a clean, sloping demeanor, a short hood, raked windshield, angular corners and the “Dynamic Shield” grille bisected horizontally by a thick black centerpiece. Side action lines are sculpted in and the rear employs a front-focused stance.

The 2017 Outlander Sport in GT configuration (as was my test drive) is light at 3285 lbs. (curbweight with the 2.4 engine and AWD) and measures 171.5 inches long, 71.3 inches wide and 64.8 inches high on a 105.1-inch wheelbase. Ground clearance is 8.5 inches,

Sport power comes from either a 2.0-liter engine that provides 148 horses and 145 lbs.-ft. of torque, with an estimated 24 mpg city/31 mpg highway for 2WD models and 23 city/29 highway for AWD; or the 2.4-liter MIVEC 4-cylinder engine which is estimated 23/28 2WD and 22/27 AWD. Both engines are set up with a 5-speed manual or Sportronic® continuously-variable transmission.

My test ride, an Outlander Sport GT, was outfitted with the 2.4-liter powerplant that is less noisy than the smaller engine, but while quicker than the 2.0, it is not a fast accelerator. You get steady and predictable speed increases, and uphill grades are easily and successfully traveled, but passing at speed takes some strategy and track tests showed a plodding attack at 8.9 seconds for a zero-to-60mph run and a 17.0-second quarter-mile journey. A week of mixed-use tests on snowy and slick surfaces yielded an average of 24.2mpg.

Behind the wheel, there is a compact sedan feel rather than a sports-ute experience, though the electric power steering often lacked focus. Driving in town was fun, as Sport easily maneuvers into tight spaces and around obstacles, making it better suited for urban than off-road scenarios -- Sport is more pleasant and friendly than it is rugged. The MacPherson front struts with stabilizer bar and multi-link rear with stabilizer bar deftly leveled minor road and highway bumps and gave good road feel, but soft-road seemed about its upper level.

The Outlander Sport cabin is driver and passenger friendly and is brimming with expected tech and infotainment. With the Panoramic Roof above, the interior provides 39.4 inches of front headroom with 37.9 inches for row two. Legroom is comfortable up front at 41.6 inches up front, but tighter in the rear at 36.3 inches. Shoulder room is 56.2 inches in row one and 55.5 inches for the rear seats.

In addition to the plethora of standard cabin amenities across all trims, my Sport GT came standard with a 6.1-inch Touch panel display audio system, 140-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with 6 speakers, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio with 3-month subscription, Digital HD Radio®, FUSE Hands-free Link System® with Bluetooth® technology, USB port, and steering wheel controls, Color Multi-Information Display, Rearview camera system, FAST-key passive entry system with panic feature, One-touch Start/Stop engine switch, automatic air conditioning climate control, heated driver and front passenger seats and much more.

For comparison, the full-size 2017 Outlander starts at $22,995 for the ES trim and tops at (before options and add-ons) at $30,995 in GT trim. The smaller 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport starts at $19,595 for the 2WD ES 2.0 trim with a 5-speed manual transmission, while the automatic version bases at $20,795. All-wheel drive takes the base 2.0 to $22,195. With 11 trim levels offered across the Sport line-up, the 2.4 engine model begins at $22,495 in manual 2WD and tops at $25,395 for the 2.4 Sport in all-wheel-drive automatic. Moving up to the GT 2.4, pricing starts at $25,995 for 2WD, automatic while the GT 2.4 I tested in all-wheel-drive and standard black leather interior starts at $27,395.

The Navigation Package added $1800; The All-Weather Package 2 added remote engine start and front and rear mudguards for $595; the Exterior Package added $515, for a large rear spoiler, alloy fuel door and front and rear undercovers; the Interior Package added $200 for Piano Black gear shift panel and black leather/aluminum gear shift knob; Rear Park Assist Sensor Package added $350; and Destination and Handling added $895 for a sticker-as-tested of $31,750.

Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Since 1995, when Chevrolet renamed its Blazer, GM has packaged its full-size truck-based SUV as Tahoe, a name borrowed from a rugged and scenic California ski area.

Three years into its fourth generation, the 2017 Tahoe has replaced the top trim LTZ with a new name: Premier, which now comes with perforated, leather-trimmed heated and vented driver and passenger seats. Also new is a standard Teen Driver feature that encourages safe driving habits with teenagers, enabling parents to view the vehicle’s maximum speed, distance driven and the number of times active safety features were engaged during a drive.

New front active aero shutters enhance aerodynamics on the highway and new available items for Tahoe include rear seat entertainment system upgrades with HDMI/MHL connector; additional USB port; digital headphones and device projection and a new video voiceover feature that benefits visually and hearing impaired. Chevrolet MyLink adds in-vehicle shopping apps and you also get Rear Seat Reminder Customization, and available Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking. New exterior colors for this year include Blue Velvet Metallic and Pepperdust Metallic

Bucking the trend toward curved, Euro-sculpture for sports-utes, Tahoe doesn’t pretend to be something it isn’t. It is a truck-type SUV and it comes at you as such. It is upright and trucklike in its architecture – old-school boxy, though Chevy considers it refined and precisely sculpted. Its inlaid doors fit into the body side openings instead of over the top of the body, for quietness of the interior cabin while contributing to solid aerodynamics – an attribute that helps the vehicles slip through the air on the highway with less drag for greater efficiency. Lightweight aluminum hood and liftgate panels also enhance efficiency through reduced overall mass.

Tahoe measures 204.9 inches long, 74.4 inches high and 80.5 inches wide on a 116-inch wheelbase, and weighs in at 5631 lbs. in the LT trim I tested.

Tahoe can carry up to nine people, though the third row can be tight. Inside, you get 45.3 inches of front legroom, 42.8 inches of front headroom and 64.5 inches of front shoulder room. The second row comes in at 30.0 (headroom), 42.8 (legroom) and 64.5 (shoulder room), and the rear seats accommodate only 27 inches of headroom, 38.4 inches of legroom and 63.5 inches of shoulder room.

The cabin is refined to enhance functionality and comfort, while delivering advanced technologies and connectivity. Premium materials and enhanced ergonomics demonstrate the SUVs’ blend of sophistication, craftsmanship and function.
The instrument panel, for example, has a straightforward design featuring a large, easy-to-view cluster. It includes a 4.2-inch color driver information center display in the center of the cluster, for vehicle, infotainment and other data. There’s also an eight-inch-diagonal color touch screen radio on LT and LTZ models in the center of the instrument panel, incorporating secured storage behind the motorized screen.

Tahoe is powered by a 5.3-liter V-8 that thunders out 355hp and 383 lbs,-ft. of torque. The system delivers excellent passing power, but there was a slight delay in translating pedal inputs to engine response. With a truck feel and action, and mated to a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission, my Tahoe LT finished off a zero-to-60 mph sprint in 7.4 seconds (hand-timed) and completed a quarter-mile in 15.6 seconds (also hand-timed), EPA estimates of 18/city and 22/highway in 4WD configuration were close to my tests, which yielded an average of 19.7mpg in mixed-use driving.

I found Tahoe’s electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system to be a bit heavy, and maneuvering this big SUV in tight city or town spots can be challenging. Braking response was good, but you need to press down and not ease down on the pedal for solid engagement; and the independent coil-over-shock front suspension works with a solid axle rear with five-link location and coil springs to give soft road feel at speed and some bounce over highway irregularities.

The 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe is available in three trims. The Base LS starts at $48,410 in 2WD, the LT adds leather-appointed first- and second-row seats, power liftgate with programmable height, heated front bucket seats with memory, Bose® premium sound system, and safety upgrades and starts at $53,540. The top trim, Premier, starts at $63,225 and adds high-intensity discharge headlamps, 12-way power-adjustable heated and cooled front seats, 20-inch wheels, Side Blind Zone Alert with Lane Change Alert, and more.

My Black test Tahoe, in LT trim, added 4WD for $3,000; The Luxury Package for $2995 added keyless entry with push button start; heated second row power-release 60/40 split-bench seats; outside heated power-adjustable, power-folding mirrors; power-fold third row 60/40 split-bench seats; memory power tilt-and-telescopic steering column and heated steering wheel; wireless charging; hands-free power liftgate; fog lamps; Front and Rear Park Assist; Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Side Blind Zone Alert; body-color trailer hitch closeout in the rear fascia.

The Sun, Entertainment and Destinations Package for $2710, added Chevrolet MyLink® Radio with Navigation ; rear seat Blu-ray entertainment system; power sunroof and more.

Integrated roof rails added $250; molded splash guards added $170; and Destination and Freight charges of $1285 put the sticker-as-tested at $61,265 after manufacturer discounts.

Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Volkswagen’s best-selling car had been offered in sedan and hatchback configurations, but is now only presented as a sedan. That design downsize doesn’t compromise Jetta’s range that starts as a stylish econo-car and tops off as a sporty and quick performance compact.

Volkswagen’s Jetta was originally a Golf hatchback with specifically different styling and a conventional trunk. Launched in 1979 as a small family car, it was latched onto by trend-setting college-age buyers, and as Jetta has evolved into a larger, more powerful and more electronically advance vehicle, it has remained trendy and has been VW’s top-selling model for years.

This sixth-generation Jetta began production in 2010 for the 2011 model year, and for 2017, VW has simplified the Jetta line-up to four trims -- S, SE, SEL, and GLI. The base S trim includes a 1.4-liter, 150-horsepower TSI® engine, 16-inch steel wheels, LED DRLs and two-tone cloth seats as standard, along with a rearview camera that is now standard for all Jetta trim levels. The midline SE adds Volkswagen Car-Net® App-Connect connectivity and connected services, a sunroof, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter knob, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, KESSY® Keyless access and push-button start, and V-Tex leatherette seats with rear pass-through functionality. The top SEL trim gains a 1.8-liter, 170-hp TSI engine, power driver’s seat; exterior chrome accents; Climatronic® automatic dual-zone climate control; a navigation system, rain-sensing wipers, front foglights; Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist); and Adaptive Cruise Control. The Jetta GLI is now available in only one trim, with a 2.0-liter, 210-hp TSI engine, standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, a navigation system, power driver’s seat, LED taillights, Park Distance Control (Park Pilot), the Fender® Premium Audio System, and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert.

The Jetta design continues its architecture of clear, precise lines and muscular surfaces in a Euro-elegant demeanor. At the front, the coupe-like incline of the windshield and the consistent use of horizontal lines present Jetta’s identity as wide and energetic. The visual band formed by the radiator grille that features three crossfins, combines with headlight clusters and large lower air intake to give the Jetta a signature appearance. This look is finished off on the SEL and GLI trims with foglights mounted in the outer areas of the bumper.

Jetta is a compact at 183.3 inches long (182.2 for the GLI trim), 70 inches wide and 57.2 inches high (56.5 for the GLI) on a 104.4-inch wheelbase, with a ground clearance of 5.2 inches. Jetta seats five and weighs in at a light 3194 lbs. for the automatic transmission version.

The Jetta interior features well-equipped style and substance Even the entry-level Jetta models have standard air conditioning, a multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, one-touch auto up/down power windows, power locks with remote keyless entry, Bluetooth® technology for compatible devices, a rearview camera, and power heatable exterior mirrors. And premium features abound on higher-level trims.

The cabin is accommodating with an un-compactlike at 38.2 inches of front headroom with 37.1 inches in row two; shoulder room is 55.2 inches in front and 53.6 inches in the rear, and legroom is a comfortable 41.2 inches for row one and 38.1 inches for the second-seat passengers.

Jetta offers three engine choices. The base 1.4-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged/intercooled engine provides 150hp and 184 lbs.-ft. of torque; the
1.8-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged/intercooled engine delivers 170hp and 184 lbs.-ft. and the 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged/intercooled engine that powered my GLI test ride, hummed out 210hp and 207 lbs.-ft.

The automatic version of the three are EPA rated at 28/city, 38/highway and 32/combined for the 1.4; 25/city, 35/highway and 29/combined for the 1.8; and 24/city, 33/highway and 27/combined for the 2.0-liter. My week of tests with the 2.0 averaged 25.9mpg.

My automatic GLI accelerated and turbo’d-in seamlessly, and was predictable and reliable when needed. Track tests showed a 6.6-second zero-to-60mph sprint and a 15.4-second quarter-mile.

My Jetta handled admirably. The rack-and-pinion, electric steering with power assist was responsive with some driver-friendly understeer and torque steer. The suspension held the pavement well and sway was minimal.

Building on its rep as a top safety vehicle, the 2017 Jetta, when equipped with optional Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) and Bi-Xenon headlights, has earned a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and was awarded the top rating -- 5 stars -- in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration tests.

The base 2017 Jetta S 1.4T starts at $17,895, followed by the 1.4T SE at $20,895 and the 1.8T SEL at $24,995. The sporty 2.0T GLI starts at $27,895. Destination and handling charges of $820 brings the base GLI to $28,715.

My test Jetta GLI was bathed in Platinum Gray Metallic exterior paint, mated to a Titan Black V-Tex Sport Leatherette interior. I prefer a manual transmission in sports cars, but my test ride was outfitted with a 6-speed automatic with Tiptronic® and Sport mode for an additional $1100. Side window deflectors added $188; sunroof wind deflector added $110; and body side molding added $214 for a sticker-as-tested of $30,327.

Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Launched for the 2004 model year as an alternative to the full-size pick-up establishment, Nissan’s Titan went through its first generation without a major redesign until 2016. This year, the all-new Titan Crew Cab adds a bold design, a new half-ton model and a new standard 390-horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance® V-8 gasoline engine coupled with a 7-speed automatic transmission.

With body-on-frame (fully boxed ladder-type) construction utilizing corrosion-resistant and high strength steel, the new Titan half-ton continues the design cues established by the original Titan full-size pickup, including bed and cab features that are now industry standard, and the rugged function and style of the Titan XD.

The Titan half-ton has the same aggressive style as the Titan XD, but is built on a completely separate chassis and is about a foot shorter in wheelbase (139.8 inches versus XD's 151.6 inches). At 228.1 inches in length, it is 14.7 inches shorter than the larger Titan XD (242.8 inches).The new Titan also measures 79.5 inches in width and 76.0 inches in height. Minimum ground clearance is 8.9 inches and step-in height is 22.9 inches up front and 23.8 in the rear and Titan has a curbweight of 5684 lbs. Titan and Titan XD share the same cabs, and both offer similar toughness, durability and innovative interior, bed and driving aid features.

The Titan half-ton's exterior design was created at Nissan Design America in La Jolla, Calif. The design's focus on improved aerodynamics (an approximate 10 percent reduction versus the previous-generation Titan) incorporates a front spoiler, roof and tailgate spoilers, front tow hook hole cover, underbody covers, rear tire wind deflectors and a seal between the cab and bed.

The Titan half-ton also incorporates an Active Grille Shutter, which helps reduce drag by closing the grille opening behind the radiator when a large amount of airflow is not needed, and its standard 5.5-foot bed is designed to work hard and play hard, with a wide range of available functionality features.

An improved interior layout offers enhanced storage versus the previous generation Titan – front storage has been increased 33 percent and rear storage 28 percent – and new second- row underseat storage includes a locking lid for added security, along with an integrated foldout flat floor.

Filled with high-tech, infotainment, climate and comfort items, the interior provides 41.0 inches of front headroom with 40.4 inches in row two; leg room is 31.8 inches in row one and 38.5 inches in the second row; knee room is 26.6 and 23.9 and shoulder room is 63.3 inches in the first seats and 63.6 in the second row.
The standard front and rear Zero Gravity seats help maximize posture positioning for enhanced comfort during long distance driving.

Titan power is provided by a smooth 5.6-liter Endurance® V-8 engine that shares its displacement with the previous-generation V-8, but gains 73 hp (390 hp) and 9 lbs.-ft. of torque (394 lbs.-ft.) from Gen-1. Titan is EPA rated at 15mpg in city driving, 21 mpg on the highway and 18mpg overall, and a week of tests in snowy conditions yielded an average of 17.3mpg.

During tests, the cabin was quiet, the seats were comfortable and the sightlines were good. Engine power built predictably and consistently and while the rack-and-pinion engine speed variable assist steering was a bit heavy, handling was par for the niche though a bit top-heavy. The double-wishbone front suspension with 34-mm stabilizer bar and twin-tube coil-over shock absorbers works with a multi-leaf solid-axle rear with an 18 mm-stabilizer bar and twin-tube shock absorbers to smooth out most road irregularities and while it floated a bit at high-speed, Titan’s road feel was dependable when needed. On the track, Titan gradually gained enough speed to finish off a zero-to-60mph sprint in 7.2 seconds and confidently completed a quarter-mile in 15.7 seconds.

With attention to safety, Titan is outfitted with an Anti-lock Braking System, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Traction Control System and Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Also onboard is the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System with single-stage driver and dual-stage passenger supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and occupant classification sensor. This includes roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor and front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags.

The 2017 Nissan Titan Crew Cab comes in nine base trim levels, beginning with the S 2x2 at $34,780 and the 4x4 at $37,760, and topping out with the Platinum 4x4 at $55,400. Second on the list – SV -- started at $37,670 and added Advanced Drive-Assist® Display, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, trailer sway control and chrome exterior trim to the S. I tested the next one up, the SL, starting at $46,380, after adding Remote Engine Start/Stop System, Leather-appointed seats, NissanConnect™ powered by SiriusXM® and a Rockford Fosgate® audio system. In Magnetic Black with an SL Black Leather interior, the Chrome Package was added for $1200 (chrome grille, exhaust finisher, 20-inch chrome wheels and kick plat finisher); and the $410 Towing Convenience Package was required; Splash Guards added $235; Running Board Lighting added $370; Door Sill Plates were $95; all-season floor mats added $135 and Destination and Handling added $1195, for a sticker-as-tested of $50,020.


> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Kia Motors is going green in a big way, with a Hybrid that doesn’t look like a Hybrid, and housed in a Crossover package that doesn’t look or act quite like a Crossover. It is more like an “un-Hybrid, non-Crossover.” Kia’s all-new 2017 Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV) is marketed by Kia as: “A no-compromise vehicle that combines driving enjoyment with eye-catching design, functional utility and hybrid efficiency.”

What Niro does well is provide impressive fuel economy – EPA rated at 51mpg in the city, 46/highway and 49/combined. To back that up (though my tests showed a bit less, as they generally do), in December 2016, Niro officially received a Guinness World Records title for the lowest fuel consumption by a hybrid vehicle, as it traveled from Los Angeles to New York City with a fuel consumption record of 76.6 mpg. Now, they hypermile and use techniques you won’t use (and I didn’t use), but my review tests still produced a notable average of 47.1 mpg in mixed-use driving.

Niro is marketed as a Crossover, but seems like more of a Hatchback. It is not offered in AWD and cargo space is not as cavernous as what we expect from CUVs. Not boxy or high – Niro is curvy, slim and only 60.8 inches tall -- it doesn’t look like a typical crossover. In fact, Kia bills the exterior design as "un-hybrid". Niro certainly doesn’t fit the perception of what a hybrid is supposed to look like as it offers a wide stance, long and curved roofline and short overhangs.

Designed at Kia’s design centers in Irvine, California, and Namyang, Korea, Niro’s architecture is atypical of a hybrid, appearing strong and confident with subtly sculpted surfaces offset by robust styling cues. Niro sports wide and low proportions, standing 171.5 inches long, 71.1 inches wide and 60.8 inches high with roof rails, on a 106.3-inch wheelbase. The overhang is 34.3 inches in front and 30.9 inches in the rear and Niro has a ground clearance of 6.3 inches. Curbweight for the upper trims is 3161 lbs.

Up front, Niro bears a familiar front fascia highlighted by Kia’s signature grille and flanked by aggressively shaped headlights that accentuate the Niro’s strong shoulders. Contours on the hood lend visual interest and, along with voluminous wheel arches, rocker cladding, roof rails, and rear skid plate, contribute to a sporty look. Although Niro employs a Crossover theme, it was designed with aerodynamics in mind, with its carefully shaped bodywork contributing to a relatively efficient coefficient of drag of .29.

Stepping inside the Niro reveals an inviting, modern and high-tech interior. Glossy white or black accents underline the HUV’s straightforward theme. The instrument panel is uncluttered and clean, with colorful and informative gauges at the forefront and perfectly positioned primary and secondary controls falling readily to hand. Interior roominess measures 49.1 inches of front headroom with 39.1 inches in the rear; legroom is 41.7 inches up front and 37.4 inches in row two, and shoulder room has been measured at 56.0 and 55.2. Seats with increased pad density in the cushions ensure a comfortable ride, helping to prevent fatigue on longer trips and the Niro boasts an elevated seating position much like the Kia Soul, providing drivers with a more commanding view of the road as well as easy ingress and egress.

The powertrain begins with an all-new, state-of-the-art Kappa 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine, engineered specifically for hybrid applications. The aluminum block and head system delivers 104hp and 109 lbs,-ft. of torque. The electric motor is a Lithium-Ion Polymer battery-powered 240-volt AC Synchronous Permanent Magnet Motor that provides 43 hp and the combined system is rated at 139hp and 195 lbs.-ft of torque. The system has a driving range of 583 miles.

Niro’s power is transmitted through a newly developed, second-generation six-speed dual-clutch transmission, which not only boosts efficiency but is also a key factor to a fun driving experience. The transmission delivers smooth, quick shifts for a natural and peppy feel, unlike other hybrids, though a zero-to-60mph “dash” took 10.9 seconds during an 18.4-second quarter-mile

Corners were taken effectively for the niche with little body roll and comparatively small top wobble. Road noise was surprisingly present in the cabin, but for the most part, Niro handled more like a sedan than a Crossover. Acceleration was decent enough for everyday driving, braking was confident, steering was supple and responsive and the independent front suspension with MacPherson struts, stabilizer and gas shocks, works well with the independent multi-link rear with twin tube shocks to smooth out most road irregularities.

The 2017 Kia Niro starts at $22,890 for the base NR trim, and moves up through the LX at $23,200; the EX at $25,700; the Touring at $29,650 and the Touring Launch at $31;950. My test Niro LX added the Sunroof Tech Package for $1450, with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning System, Lane Departure Warning System, Smart Cruise Control, Leather wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob, LED Daytime Running Lights and front fog lights. Mud guards added $95; carpet floor mat was $130; and Destination Charges added $895 for a price-as-tested of $25,570, making it one of the more affordable hybrids in the segment.


> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

In 2005, for the 2006 model year, Honda introduced the Ridgeline to give Honda automobile owners a chance to also own a truck under the badge. It was created, not as a traditional truck, but as a crossover sports-utility truck, or SUT, Production on that first generation ended in 2014, but Ridgeline is back for 2017 as an innovative midsize pickup truck. Ridgeline has been redesigned from the ground up to offer both recreational and work users a higher degree of utility and versatility in a modern, rugged and sophisticated midsize pickup.

Based on Honda's Global Light Truck platform -- with its highly rigid, aerodynamic and tightly sealed unitized body construction, Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ safety body structure, and fully independent front and rear suspension systems with Amplitude Reactive Dampers – the 2017 Honda Ridgeline has been named the 2017 North American Truck of the Year at this year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit (chosen by more than 60 automotive journalists). Ridgeline has also earned a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, when equipped with available front crash prevention system and LED headlights. Ridgeline is the first and only pickup to earn that rating.

The all-new 2017 Ridgeline sports a sleek, sophisticated and rugged exterior design, incorporating new premium features including standard LED taillights, and available features such as LED projector headlights and LED daytime running lights. The Second-Generation truck gained 3.2 inches in wheelbase over Gen-1 and now sits at 125.2 inches. This year’s model is also 3.1 inches longer at 210 inches, 0.5 inches higher at 70.8 inches in AWD configuration, and 0.8 inches wider at 78.6 inches. The bed length is 3.9 inches longer at 64 inches, yet with the size gains, curbweight is down for AWD by 73 lbs. to 4431 lbs.

The redesign retains the features and capabilities from the first generation, but with more traditional truck styling, advanced safety features and modern electronic amenities.

Powering the 2017 Ridgeline is a new 3.5-liter direct injected i-VTEC® 24-valve SOHC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management™ cylinder deactivation technology. The new engine is mated to an innovative smooth shifting 6-speed automatic that offers a 20 percent wider gear ratio spread than the previous-generation Ridgeline 5-speed automatic, for enhanced acceleration, pulling power and fuel efficiency. The Ridgeline's new engine is rated at 280 peak horsepower and 262 lb.-ft. peak torque. Peak engine output is up 30 horsepower and 15 lb.-ft. of torque over the previous Ridgeline, with increased torque over the engine's entire operating (rpm) range.

AWD fuel economy is EPA rated at 18/city, 25/highway and 21mpg/combined on regular unleaded fuel. A week of testing over snow, ice and occasionally dry roads and highways, as well as some soft-road activities, yielded an average of 20.3mpg.

Behind the wheel, steering was attentive and carlike on long straights and weaving corners, with very little body-lean. Acceleration from the six-speed automatic transmission was smooth and predictable, and track runs proved solid for a mid-size truck or SUT at 7 seconds flat for a zero-to-60mph sprint and 15.6 seconds for a quarter-mile.

The four-wheel independent suspension was supple over highway irregularities and worked well with an advanced traction management system to conquer snow and soft-road obstacles.

The new interior combines premium quality, convenience and user-friendly technology in a roomy, versatile package. With seating for five, sightlines are good and interior space is accommodating at 40.1 inches of front headroom and 38.8 in the rear; legroom affords 40.9 inches up front and 36.7 for rear seats and shoulder room comes in at 62.0 and 61.5 inches.

Ridgeline’s cabin features such available amenities as one-touch power moonroof with tilt feature; LED interior ambient lighting; Smart Entry and pushbutton start; heated front seats and steering wheel; reconfigurable rear seat; 8-inch touchscreen display audio system with Android operating system; Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto; new-generation "2.0/3.0" SiriusXM® Radio; Pandora® compatibility; SMS Text Message function and HondaLink™ connected-car system.

Key safety and driver-assistive features include Pedestrian Injury Mitigation Design, Vehicle Stability Assist™ with Traction Control, Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering, Brake Assist, advanced 4-channel ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution, Dual-Stage, Multiple-Threshold Front Airbags, driver and front passenger side airbags, side curtain airbags, Tire Pressure Monitoring System with Tire Fill Assist, Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, parking sensors, Honda LaneWatch™, Blind Spot Information, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor and much more.

With seven trims offered, the base 4-door Crew Cab 2017 Honda Ridgeline RT starts at $29,475 in 2WD automatic. The AWD automatic version (and I nearly always recommend to go AWD or 4WD) adds $1900. Cool bodyside molding added $225 and silver roof rail crossbars added $225. Door visors added $275; an expanded view mirror added $44; door edge guards added $105; fog lights added $400; running boards added $625 and splash guards added $116 for front and rear. Inside, all-season floor mats added $169 and automatic dimming mirror added $142. Three electronic additions were back-up sensors for $500, remote engine start for $99 and a CD player for $310. With destination and handling charges of $940, my 2017 Honda Ridgeline as tested was priced at $36,075.


> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

Automotive enthusiasts have a tendency to be excited by dynamic vehicles and often anoint them with the term “supercar.” This leads to what I perceive as an overuse or misuse of the term. Having said that, a new imagining of an old vehicle certainly deserves consideration of the supercar label for its design, innovation, driving excitement and its horsepower -- 573hp. That vehicle is the 3-engine, 2017 Acura NSX.

The original Acura NSX debuted in 1990 as a cutting-edge coupe combining exotic car styling and performance with a new dimension of quality, exceptional ergonomics and dynamic poise. It underwent a performance upgrade in 1997 and facelift in 2002 before being discontinued in 2005. NSX is back for 2017 as a lightweight, naturally aspirated coupe that can be perceived as a hybrid supercar, with a twin-turbo engine combined with a hybrid setup, and dual-clutch transmission. The new NSX rides on an aluminum-intensive space frame with a carbon fiber floor and a body designed to direct airflow over, under, and through the car including cooling duties.

Winter weather closed my test track, so I was unable to prove the estimated top speed of 191mph or the manufacturer’s estimate of a 3-second-flat zero-60mph sprint; and the NSX probably should be tested in spring or summer to fully enjoy the experience; but we never look gift horsepower in the trunk, so an exciting ride in winter was better than no ride at all.

Designed with elegance, NSX is constructed with a multi-material space frame of cast aluminum nodes and a mix of light aluminum and low-density SMC outer panels. The architecture features a wedge shape with prominent cooling ducts on the rear fenders, a conservative rear spoiler, and no active aero components (such as an active rear spoiler or active front grille shutters). Complex high-performance aluminum castings for crush zones is the world's first automotive application of the technique, as are the A-pillars made from 3DQ ultra-high-strength steel and a use of Carbon Fiber front floor panels.

Sitting on a wheelbase of 103.5 inches, with a length of 178 inches, height of 47.8 inches, width of 87.3 inches and a curbweight of only 3803 lbs., the NSX provides stability and speed by managing air flow through the front motor room and rear engine room as well as around the body, while still maintaining the increased stability of properly distributed downforce. Stability at speed is what the NSX delivers with exceptional balance and confidence to enhance the driving experience.

And there’s exceptional power. Maximum total system power is 573hp with maximum total system torque of 476 lb.-ft. The next-generation Sport Hybrid SH-AWD power unit consists of an all-new longitudinally mid-mounted twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 that puts out 500 hp and 406 lb.-ft of torque, and a permanent-magnet, water-cooled electric motor/generator direct drive motor. This system delivers 47hp and 109 lb.-ft. and is mated to a 9-speed dual-clutch transmission

On the road, stability is track-worthy and acceleration is immediate with the electric motors engaging before the twin turbos kick in. In tight quick turns you have to be on your toes because there is a lot of understeer, but the system softens torque steer and I wouldn’t be surprised if the 3-second factory hype on a zero-to-60 sprint is close to reality. My road-hugging pedal mashing averaged 20.7mpg in town and on the interstates.

The NSX cockpit is cozy, elegant, intuitive and filled with electronics. With seating capacity for two, NSX provides 38.3 inches of headroom, 42.8 inches of legroom, 57.6 inches of shoulder room and 54.5 inches of hip room.

Intuitive instrumentation, Alcantara® leather, well-padded sports seats, steering wheel and center console, exemplary ergonomics and a center console/control set-up designed to minimize distractions from the most important function – driving – combines with state-of-the-art connectivity and infotainment and more than a dozen active and passive safety features to provide a super interior experience.

In Curva Red – there’s not much better than a red sportscar -- the 2017 Acura NSX starts at $156,000. The Ebony interior was enhanced by Semi-Aniline Full Leather Alcantara® power seats for an additional $2500. Pricey exclusive wheel designs were available but the standard Y-spoke wheels were classy as they were. Brake packages for $10,000 or more were available, but the standard iron rotors with Black calipers served my test ride well. The Exterior Sports Package with a Black front spoiler, Black side sills, Black rear diffuser and chrome exhaust finisher was pretty cool, and we did without the $9000 Carbon Fiber rendition of the package. The same can be said for the body color rear decklid that was kept rather than to upgrade to Carbon Fiber for an additional $3000, as well as the spiffy NSX engine cover that could have been upgrade to Carbon Fiber for $3000. The standard interior package included a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Metallic Silver steering wheel spokes, Alcantara® meter visor and Black rubber pedals and footrest. An available Carbon Fiber upgrade was not included and would have cost $2900. One upgrade that was made on my test ride was an ELS Studio® Audio +Tech + SiriusXM Package for $3300 that upgraded a standard premium audio system to an ELS Studio® Premium Audio System with AcuraLink® The Next Generation, navigation, proximity sensors and XM Radio. A Black Aluminum roof antenna was also added as was Illuminated door sill trim inside (and this time Carbon Fiber was included) for $1500. Destination handling is $1800, which put the price as tested at $165,100.

> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.

What weighs in at about one ton, has been redesigned with new front-end styling and a freshened rear bumper, sports an economical 74-hp engine and is fun to drive? The answer is the tweaked 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage.

Mirage took the year off and has returned with a fresh new look thanks to a revamped front fascia with chrome upper/lower grille; new hood design; LED tail lamps; rear spoiler; color-keyed front and rear bumpers; folding side-view mirrors; door handles and tailgate handle; new 14-inch alloy wheel design; 15-inch alloy wheels; HID automatic on/off headlights; beveled fog lamps and nine exterior color choices: Wine Red, Sunrise Orange, Sapphire Blue, Infra Red, Pearl White, Mystic Black, Starlight Silver and Mercury Gray.

The exterior improvements join style with substance as its augmented aerodynamics increase fuel efficiency, while its sleek form helps reduce weight to just over 2000 pounds. This combination keeps gas mileage high while reducing the coefficient of drag (Cd) to 0.27.

The subcompact measures 149.4 inches long, 65.6 inches wide and 59.4 inches high on a 96.5-inch wheelbase, with minimum ground clearance of 6.3 inches and curb weight of only 2090 lbs. for my test Mirage in GT trim.

The GT separates itself from other Mirage trims with a 6.5-inch display audio with Smartphone link, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™; rear view camera system; bi-xenon HID headlights with light tube; 15-inch two-tone alloy wheels; front seat heater; FAST-key passive entry system and push-button start; semi-hi-contrast meter cluster with chrome accent and Bluetooth® hands-free phone system with steering wheel-mounted controls.

All Mirages are outfitted with a 1.2-liter MIVEC DOHC, 12-valve Inline 3-cylinder engine with an aluminum head and aluminum block. The fuel-efficient Inline-3 engine produces 78 hp and 74 lbs,-ft. of torque. However, even for a 2090-lb. vehicle, the economical system was a slow accelerator and under-performer. You need to strategize your passing and uphill travel, and the engine shows you it is trying with a noisy whine that enters the cabin. Track tests showed an 11.9 second sprint from zero-to-60mph and a quarter-mile journey of 18.7 seconds, slow by every means, but both seemed faster in this subcompact. And weaving in and out of traffic on the highway or cruising around town, Mirage is a very fun drive.

The rack-and-pinion, Electric Power Assist steering is a bit vague, and road inadequacies are often felt through the MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension, which reminded me of compacts back in the day, when you expected such things in return for superior gas mileage. Well, Mirage DOES deliver expertly in fuel economy. With an EPA rating of 37mpg in the city, a whopping 43 on the highway and 39 combined, Mirage is a winner at the pumps. While I didn’t average 40, my week of mixed-use tests did come in at a very pump-friendly 39.7mpg.

In the cockpit, Mirage has updated the interior with improved front and rear seat materials, steering wheel with decorative bezel, new panel design for air conditioning and illuminated semi high-contrast combination gauge cluster –speedo and tach.

The cabin offers seating for five with 39.1 inches of front headroom and 37.3 inches in row two, 41.7 inches of front legroom, but only 34.0 in the second seats and shoulder room of 51.7 and 51.0. The tight accommodations are augmented by 6-way adjustable driver’s seat and 4-way front passenger seat, automatic air conditioner and climate control with a micron air filter and rear heater floor ducts.

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage has supplemented its attention to safety with an advanced seven air bag SRS system including driver's side knee air bag, dual-stage front air bags with occupant seat position sensors, front seat mounted side-impact air bags and front and rear curtain side air bags. Mirage also employs an anti-lock braking system with Electronic Brake-force Distribution; Active Stability Control with Traction Control Logic; Hill Start Assist; Tire Pressure Monitoring System; Engine immobilizer anti-theft security alarm system and Mitsubishi Motors' patented Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution safety cell body construction

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage is available in three trim levels, with the first two in either 5-speed manual or automatic transmission configurations – the top-level GT is automatic only. The base manual ES starts at $12,995 and the automatic starts at $14,195. The SE bases at $14,795 (manual) and $15,995 (automatic) and my sporty test Mirage GT starts at $16,495. The Wine Red exterior was mated to a black fabric interior, but I thought the also-available Sunrise Orange was a much more hip color for the Mirage. A cargo net and cargo mat added $95; Floor and Center Console illumination in blue added $225; front and rear parking assist sensors added $450; front and rear mudguards and scuff plates added $180; a cool Rockford Fosgate® Premium Audio Package with a 300-watt ecoPunch™ amp with subwoofers added $575, and remote engine start added $495. With destination and handling fees of $635, my Mirage GT test ride stickered for $18,775, but some dealers offer incentives of $1000 or more, so check one out at a dealership … it’s a ton of fun.

> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.