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2015 RAM 2500 Power Wagon

by: Albert Fender

Dodge has made quite a name for itself in the past decade as a powerful, stylish cutting edge manufacture that pushes the envelope when it comes to innovative design. Not to be out done, in 2015 Dodge can claim: Best-in-class fuel economy with exclusive EcoDiesel – 29 mpg with Ram 1500. How about Best-in-class towing capability – 30,000 pounds with Ram 3500. Another milestone Best-in-class payload at 7,390 pounds with Ram 3500, and finally Best-in-class torque at 865 lb.-ft. with Ram 3500 equipped with the Cummins.

When it comes to power, the term Hemi gets thrown around quite a bit! The 2015 2500 Power Wagon certainly has plenty of power to go around. Outside of all that power, Ram HD trucks continue to be the only heavy-duty pickups to meet EPA emissions regulations without the need for Diesel Exhaust Fluid. But when you are talking power, the available 6.4-liter HEMI V-8, in the Ram Heavy Duty delivers to best-in-class horsepower and best-in-class torque among pickups with gasoline engines. A 16-valve engine with 410 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and a peak torque rating of 429 lb.-ft at 4,000 rpm, does the job. Of course if you do not need that much power, you can get the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, standard which is equipment for the Ram 2500 and 3500. The engine produces 383 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and generates peak torque of 400 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 is mated to a 66RFE six-speed automatic transmission. But if you tow for a living the 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel I-6 is what you want and is available in three versions. The first version is paired with Ram’s segment exclusive six-speed manual transmission, which delivers 350 horsepower at 2,800 rpm and 660 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,400 rpm. The second option matches the Cummins to the 68RFE six-speed automatic transmission. The diesel engine cranks out 370 horsepower at 2,800 rpm with 800 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,600 rpm. But if you are looking for a beast, the 6.7-liter Cummins High-Output Turbo Diesel I-6 for Ram 3500 is paired with the Aisin six-speed automatic transmission leaving no doubt that the Ram Heavy Duty’s is more than capable! In addition to 385 horsepower at 2,800 rpm, the most powerful Cummins generates best-in-class torque of 865 lb.-ft. at 1,700 rpm.

Not only is the Ram heavy-duty series powerful, but also it has a solid body to go with it. Trucks that are expected to haul and carry heavy loads need to be solid to be able to withstand the abuse they are going to get on the work site. The Ram Heavy Duty comes equipped with robust engine, transmission and body mounts, including pioneering hydro-mounts at C-pillar positions for class-leading noise, vibration and harshness characteristics despite the truck’s aptitude for higher payloads and towing. And of course if you are in the business of towing and hauling materials, operating costs are critical. The Ram Heavy Duty holds class-leading features in, extended maintenance cycle (oil change of 15,000-fuel filter life on diesel, Brake life with advanced engine exhaust brake and largest brakes in the segment. The 2015 Ram Heavy Duty is backed with an unsurpassed five-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. The powertrain-limited warranty covers the cost of all parts and labor needed to repair a covered powertrain component – engine, transmission and drive system. Coverage also includes free towing to the nearest Ram Truck dealer, if necessary. The warranty also is transferable allowing customers who sell their truck during the warranty period to pass the coverage on to the new owner.

On top of all the power and warranty you get with the Power Wagon, you also get extra touches like the available class-exclusive RamBox® Cargo Management System+ offers lockable storage, and with the available AllSecure® remote security system, access is as easy as a push of a button. And with lighted, drainable storage, it's perfect for tools, gear or beverages. Tailgates tend to take the toughest abuse on almost every job. So Dodge has equipped all of our tailgates with the Ram Truck Tailgate Lift Assist, a resilient tension-releasing torsion bar that helps make lowering your tailgate smooth and easy. With a big truck like this you need to be able to see around it, so Ram made available power side mirrors. These exterior mirrors offer available features like integrated turn signals, heated defrost as well as power functions such as driver memory and power folding.

It goes without saying the Ram Power Wagon has plenty of room inside for 6 adults and all their “stuff”. You can get the beautiful leather finish interior or if you’re a working stiff, you can get the available work-grade vinyl seat is durable enough to handle almost anything you throw at it, with the bonus of cleaning up quickly and easily from all your toughest jobs. And just in case you were not able to fit all you needed inside the bed of your Dodge Power Wagon, there is extra storage in our Crew and Mega Cabs to keep the essentials close at hand. This is a workingman’s truck without a doubt, yet with all the comfort and safety you would expect out of a Dodge product. My demo Power Wagon retailed for $56,200.00. Depending on what you want on your dodge truck you can certainly spend a great deal less…without compromising your driving experience and performance.

Information for this article was derived from the Dodge Media website

2015 Infinity Q40

by Albert Flores, Past President Texas Auto Writers Association

In 1989, the Nissan Corporation decided to introduce to the automotive world a high-end luxury line of vehicles that were going to deliver uncompromising value, style and safety. Nissan has certainly set the standard in many areas of automotive excellence; the 2015 InfinityQ40 is no exception. The first thing you notice about the Infiniti Q40's is it’s exterior design which is defined by its sleek wave form hood, raked A-pillars, trademark taillights and strong stance projecting the power and grace that is the Infinity brand. It’s sleek Q40 silhouette offers a wedged roofline and a sweeping body that emphasizes the Infiniti design. For 2014 four exterior colors are offered: Liquid Platinum, Graphite Shadow, Black Obsidian and Moonlight White.

On the inside the dramatic body the Infiniti Q40 provides a high-end environment with a long list of luxury features. The instrument panel offers a predominately white color scheme for the gauge and LCD instrument display, enhancing both legibility and cohesiveness of design. The driver's area has a simple, intuitive layout with easy-to-read electroluminescent gauges. Technology abounds with the Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, 7.0-inch color monitor display, 6-speaker AM/FM/CD premium audio system, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, and a Navigation Plus Package. Needless to say an audiophile-quality Infiniti Studio on Wheels® by Bose® is included which combines Bose®'s 3-way speakers using 10-inch subwoofers in the front doors with a parcel shelf-mounted subwoofer in the rear. Interior space is generous for both front and rear passengers with plenty of head and legroom. Seating is generous, soft, but with plenty of lumbar and back support for long trips.

Under the hood the Infinity Q40 continues to impress! The 2015 Infiniti Q40 features an advanced 3.7-liter V6 rated at 328 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. The specially tuned dual exhaust system features equal length exhaust manifolds and low muffler exhaust backpressure to help improve engine breathing. To help take full advantage of the refined engine design, both the Q40 and Q40 AWD come with a 7-speed automatic transmission that allows for sportier shifts in performance driving situations. Fuel economy for the Q40 is rated at 19-mpg city and 27-mpg highway, while the Q40 AWD is rated at 18-mpg city/25 mpg highway.

Safety has always been an important aspect of the design behind all Infinity models. The Q40 has a multitude of safety features to include: standard Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags, Available Pre-Crash Seat Belts which will activate under emergency braking, Front seat Active Head Restraints, Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones and a Standard Vehicle Dynamic Control and Traction Control System.

My 2015 Infinity Q40 had a sticker price of $33,950.00 with the Q40 all wheel drive version going for $35,440.00. You could easily spend a great deal more and get a great deal less. Nissan and Infinity have teamed up once again to provide the consumer with a high quality vehicle that is easy on the pocket book and on the eye!

Information for this column was derived from the Infinity media website

2015 Kia Forte5

2015 Kia Forte 5-door

by: Albert Fender

For those of use that want a quick, sporty, affordable, hatchback that can carry lots of your stuff and do it while saving you gas…the 2015 Kia Forte5 is what you have been looking for! The Forte5 is offered in two trim levels, EX and SX, with two distinct engine choices. The Forte5 certainly is going to get your attention when you hit the gas with the EX’s 2.0-liter GDI four-cylinder engine and the SX’s powerful 1.6-liter GDI turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The SX comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and offers an available 6-speed automatic featuring steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The Forte5's eye catching hatchback profile, large wheels and aggressive look give it a distinctly Euro appearance that lets you know it was made to be a performance vehicle. The chiseled body is precisely what KIA was looking for in this model because it wants to provide you with good looks at a price point you can’t beat.

The Forte5 offers an impressive list of amenities. The base EX comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth®1 wireless technology, SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio2, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio and cruise control buttons3, FlexSteer®, tilt and telescoping steering column, power windows, and LED positioning headlights with fog lights. The SX trim ups the ante with standard 18-inch alloy wheels, dual chrome exhaust tips, UVO eServices4 with rear camera display5 and LED taillights.

Fuel economy is always important in this segment, and the Forte5 will not let you down. The Forte came back with a respectable 24-mpg city and 32 mpg highway. It also was able to attain 60 mph in 6.9 seconds and hit the quarter mile in 15.3 seconds at 89.4 mph. The 2015 Forte5 also stopped at an really good 110 feet. Forte5 SX also offers an aggressive front fascia with larger bumper and grille openings, black gloss grille inserts, larger front brakes and alloy sport pedals. The lower front fascia and rear valance also feature carbon fiber-look trim. Also both EX and SX trim levels offer optional HID headlights, navigation system with HD Radio™6, sunroof, heated steering wheel, 10-way adjustable power driver’s seat, heated front seats and ventilated driver’s seat, heated rear outboard seats, leather-trimmed seating surfaces, SmartKey with push-button start, electric chromatic rearview mirror and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Here is the bottom line, Kia once again bring in a 5 door entry level vehicle that has plenty of space, good acceleration, great fuel economy, plenty of room, plentiful safety features and a price point that is going to be hard to beat. The Forte5 runs from $19,690 - $21,890 depending on the options you chose.

This column used information from the Kia Media Website to create this review.

2015 Acura TLX

by: Albert Fender

Since its launch in March 1986, Acura has been considered a performance/luxury sedan that can take on the best in the industry and hold it’s own, if not exceed all of their standards. The 2015 Acura TLX is an all-new midsize sports sedan, that succeeded the TL, which makes it the third vehicle in Acura's re-envisioned performance-luxury sedan lineup. It is positioned between the ILX entry-luxury sedan and the RLX flagship Acura sedan. Acura used the theme 'Red Carpet Athlete,' to define the TLX, which was made to deliver blend of sports-sedan athleticism and premium luxury refinement. The Acura TLX seems to be intuitive, while still exhilarating and giving the driver confidence-inspired driving brings back the fun of driving. In order to give the buying public that performance-luxury sedan, it required Acura to use a host of new technologies, including two new, high-output direct-injected i-VTEC engines; two advanced new transmissions, including the world's first automotive Dual Clutch Transmission with torque converter; and the latest versions of Acura precision-handling technologies – Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS), next-generation Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), and Agile Handling Assist (AHA). All that technology produced the most advanced Acura ever produced! It’s quick and responsive in sporty driving, stable and sure-footed in higher speed maneuvers, calm and quiet during long-distance cruising.

The TLX comes in different flavors: a 2.4-liter, 206-horsepower iVTEC inline-4 with 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (8DCT) with torque converter, and Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS). The TLX with 3.5-liter, 290-horsepower i-VTEC V-6 with 9-speed automatic transmission and P-AWS; and the TLX SH-AWD with next-generation Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive, available only with the 3.5-liter, 290 horsepower V-6 and 9-speed automatic. On the outside the TLX has a strong look with body surfaces that are sculpted with fender arches, and deliberate lines that give it a sense of movement. Its sporting look is carried by a more compact sports-sedan proportions, which seem to make it look light on its feet. Compared to the 2014 TL, the 2015 TLX is 3.7-inches shorter in overall length while maintaining the same wheelbase and tandem (front-to-rear) passenger-seating distance. The TLX's front and rear overhangs are shortened by 1.1 inches and 2.7 inches, respectively, when compared to the outgoing TL.

The Acura TLX's has managed despite the shorter length to provide a spacious five-passenger interior that has been is designed development theme of the new TLX, providing a high degree of refinement, luxury comfort and plenty of technology, while supporting an awe in inspiring driving experience. High-end premium choices were made to include a soft-touch, one-piece instrument panel upper cover, alloy and wood-grain accents, and available Milano leather seat trim. The TLX offers an abundance of luxury and technology, including heated and ventilated front seats, HomeLink®, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, Smart Entry/Push Button Start keyless access system, Acura Navigation System with 3D view, and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ with Traffic Rerouting. A 7-inch On Demand Multi-Use Display™ (ODMD) 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 the next generation of AcuraLink®, Acura's cloud-based connected car system, offering Acura owners a broad range of cloud-based and embedded convenience, connectivity and available security features. All TLX models come equipped with Siri Eyes Free technology that when paired with a compatible iPhone, allows the driver to use the features of Siri using familiar voice commands. Additional standard and available luxury features includes one-touch turn-signals and power windows, power driver and front passenger seats, GPS-linked automatic climate control, color Multi-Information Display (MID) with turn-by-turn guidance, LED accent lighting, HD Radio®, Pandora® and Aha™ integration, and HDMI and USB connectivity. World-class audio was the goal of the Acura engineers when they designed the TLX. So it comes equipped with a 455-watt, 10-speaker Acura/ELS Studio® Premium Audio System, engineered specifically for the TLX.

As I mentioned before, high performance is key to the TLX’s mission to bring an exhilarating drive to its owner. In order to achieve that Acura placed a direct-injected 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC in-line 4, producing a peak 206 horsepower and 182 lb.-ft. of torque, is mated to an all-new 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (8DCT) with torque converter, the world's first transmission of this type to be paired with a torque converter.

The direct-injected 3.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC V-6 incorporates Variable Cylinder Management (VCM), with the ability to deactivate three of the engine's six cylinders, for improved fuel efficiency. The aluminum-alloy 24-valve engine produces a peak 290 horsepower and 267 lb.-ft. of torque, gains of 10 horsepower and 13 lb.-ft. versus the 2014 TL 3.5-liter engine. TLX models also feature the new 3.5-liter V-6 engine and 9AT also utilize an advanced new Electronic Gear Selector that replaces the traditional gear lever with an intuitive and easy-to-operate push-button array. The new interface frees up center-console space while presenting an advanced and futuristic appearance.

Fuel economy is always important, no matter how much power you have under the hood. The TLX with the 3.5-liter V-6 with P-AWS has an EPA fuel-economy rating of 21/34/251 mpg (+1 city/+5 highway versus the two-wheel-drive 2014 TL). The TLX SH-AWD has an EPA fuel-economy rating of 21/31/251 (+3 city/+4 highway versus the 2014 TL SH-AWD).

As I said from the beginning, the TLX is an all new sedan with lots of upgrades to the Acura TL it replaces. The TLX is built on an all-new body and chassis that was designed from the ground up to support and enhance the vehicle's outstanding driving dynamics, luxury-sedan refinement, class-leading fuel efficiency and high-level collision safety performance. The chassis features a newly designed four-wheel independent suspension system – McPherson Strut front and multi-link rear with new Amplitude Reactive Dampers for improved ride comfort and handling performance.

The TLX's unit body utilizes advanced lightweight materials, including ultra-high-strength steels, aluminum hood, bumper beams and front subframe and magnesium steering hangar beam, to minimize weight while providing for a high degree of rigidity that benefits both dynamic performance and occupant safety. Also incorporated into the body is the next generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering frontal body structure, and a new one-piece, hot-stamped-steel door stiffener ring, similar to the design first applied on the 2014 Acura MDX. The new, sleeker body design is also optimized for class-leading aerodynamic efficiency and boasts a 15 percent improvement in CdA versus the outgoing TL. Stronger, more aerodynamic and safer, bringing all that engineering in play to produce an exceptional sedan. My TLX has a sticker of $39,375 but can be found for as low as 31K and as high as 45K depending on the options you chose.

INFORMATION FOR THIS REVIEW WAS PROVIDED BY THE ACURA MEDIA WEBSITE .

2015 Sorento SX

by: Albert Fender

Kia has come along way from it’s early days when it’s overall impression with the buying public was well weak. Now Kia has taken the automotive world by storm with stylish, economic and safe vehicles that have received their share of awards. The 2015 Sorento follows the Kia’s trend of dynamic and aggressive designs inside and out. The front and rear fascias give the Sorento a lower, broad appearance up front and a sporty wide stance at the rear. For 2015, the signature Kia grille is enhanced with an anodized silver metal or black mesh appearance, and the lower valance has been opened to expose a cross-hatched intake. Front LED positioning lamps create a very dramatic look while headlights appear from behind a tapered lens. Horizontally positioned rear LED combination lamps draw your attention to the turn signal and back-up lights, creating a warm glow that makes the 2015 Sorento unique and recognizable from behind. The Sorento moves down the road on specially designed 17-, 18- and 19-inch wheels.

The Sorento for 2015 is available in four different trims LX, EX, SX and SX Limited. Powering all those options is an all-aluminum 3.3-liter GDI V6, which produces a strong 290 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and a stout 252 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,200 rpm, and a fuel-sipping 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder engine – enhanced for 2015 to provide greater fuel efficiency – producing 191 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 181 lb.-ft. of torque at a low 4,250 rpm. Power can be routed to either the front wheels or, optionally, to all four using an enhanced Torque On Demand all-wheel drive system that seamlessly directs power to the tire with the most traction and now includes Torque Vectoring Cornering Control (TVCC) for added stability under certain driving conditions. The 2015 Sorento comes standard with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. Also standard is Electric Motor Driven Power Steering for improved efficiency, and it’s quicker with 2.95 turns of the steering wheel, lock-to-lock. The steering also features an available Flex Steer™ system that offers drivers a choice of three steering modes: Comfort, Normal and Sport.

On the inside, The Sorento continues to impress. With plenty of headroom both front and back, soft touch surfaces and well placed, storage and cup holders. The instrument panel combines technology with ergonomics. Standard on EX and available on the LX trim, the large center gauge cluster features a 7-inch TFT LCD that projects a digital speedometer flanked by easy-to-read analog instruments for the tachometer, fuel level and engine temperature. The TFT LCD readout also displays trip and vehicle information, along with navigation updates. The center stack’s appearance, layout and button positions are arranged for a more user-friendly experience. The 2015 Sorento is designed with a large, vibrant touch screen. Diagonally measuring eight inches, the optional screen integrates navigation, SiriusXM Traffic1 with real-time road information updates, a premium Infinity®2 audio system, SiruisXM Satellite Radios, Bluetooth® hands-free connectivity3, vehicle settings and UVO eServices4, Kia’s next generation of infotainment and telematics. Add to that a programmable power liftgate, panoramic sunroof with a one-piece, power-operated shade, integrated 2nd row sliding sunshades, available dual ventilated air-cooled front seats, a 115-volt power inverter, and illuminated door handle pockets.

The 2015 Sorento continues to be a formidable competitor in the CUV segment, offering equal measures of value and sophistication that continues to bring in new buyers to the Kia showrooms across this country. Take a moment to drop by your Kia dealership and see that high end technology, a favorable price point and quality can feel like behind the wheel.

INFORMATION FOR THIS REVIEW WAS DERIVED FROM THE KIA MEDIA WEBSITE

2015 Mazda CX-5

by: Albert Fender

Mazda has always been an automotive manufacture that seeks to provide their customers with well-built, economic transportation with a nice flair of style and economy of space. The 2015 Mazda CX-5 is a perfect example of how successful they have been at that! The CX-5 has managed to take on all competitors and received many awards for its functionality and style. You only get one chance to get the attention of a buyer when they are walking the lot of a car dealership, so its important that you grab their attention quickly. With attractive lines, that make you stop and look again, are necessary to capture the wandering eyes of consumers. Mazda used the KODO design language, which is meant to create the “Soul of Motion” which focuses on sculptured grace and power. The exterior captures strength and movement within chiseled lines that evoke the power within. What CX-5 offers is a sharp looking alternative to the boring alternatives provided by the other manufactures that get you from the A-to-B people movers.

Regardless of trim level, Sport, Touring and Grand Touring, all CX-5s feature the same muscular shape that has a level of elegance rather than brawny. With a distinctive familial front grille, broad and black, and a trapezoidal grille, that adds depth to the design with the five-point chrome “signature wing. These strong lines give the vehicle a feeling of movement while standing still! Somehow, sharp angles magically flow into soft edges. No part of the CX-5 feels out of place, which leads to a complete vehicle profile unlike any other in its class. All of that thought into the design also provides the CX-5 with one of the segment’s best coefficients of drag at 0.33 and provides one of the widest fields of view for all its occupants.

Under the hood it is no less impressive. It is dependable, reliable and consistent in delivering what you expect from a Mazda. SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY represents the brand’s drive to do better, and be better. This technology achieves more power, more torque and more mpg over the outgoing MZR engine, which was no minor task, and to do so without compromising anything in the process is impressive. Available with a choice of two exceptional engines, the standard SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter produces 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 150 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. A larger, optional SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter engine pushes the output to 184 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm. CX-5’s redline is reached at 6,800 rpm in the 2.0-liter engine and at 6,500 rpm in the 2.5-liter. Both engines also feature a race car-high 13.0:1 compression ratio and uniquely-crafted 4-2-1 exhaust system to produce driving exhilaration without sacrificing efficiency. But what is a powerful engine if it drains your wallet at the gas pump? Mazda’s CX-5 continues to outshine the competition in fuel economy. When equipped with the SKYACTIV-G 2.0L engine, the 2015 CX-5 offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 35 highway mpg, still the highest category mpg of any SUV in North America, including hybrids. When paired with the standard SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission, the 2.0L-equipped CX-5 achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 city/35 highway/29 combined mpg, or 26 city/32 highway/29 combined when optioned with the SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission. Boosting power in the 2.5L, CX-5 continues to sip fuel with 25 city/32 highway/27 combined mpg EPA estimated numbers. The six-speed automatic transmission is standard with the larger SKYACTIV-G engine. Also only available with 2.5L models is Mazda’s Active Torque-Split All-Wheel-Drive system. Even with the added weight of an AWD system, fuel economy sees minimal impact with an EPA-estimated return of 24 city/30 highway/26 combined mpg. A 14.8 gallon fuel tank in FWD models and 15.3 gallons for those AWD models, all versions of the 2015 CX-5 can easily go a distance of more than 300 miles.

On the interior of the CX-5, a well appointed exterior captures your attention. The cabin is driver-oriented with control functions and screens positioned within reach for drivers of all heights. Passengers are just as happy with supportive seats and lots of soft-touch surfaces. Wonderfully supportive seats are available in two shades – deep black or a two-toned black/sand combination. For Sport and Touring models, two cloth fabrics are offered while beautiful perforated leather which is also available on Grand Touring models. The tailored fit and finish of the CX-5’s interior defines luxury and plenty of comfort in every position. Mazda’s attention to detail shows up in the design of the dash and accessories. The instrument cluster features specific meter lighting to make gauges clear and legible in daylight hours and non-glaring during the night. With a wheelbase of 106.3 inches, CX-5 has plenty of room to fill with comforts and amenities with seating for up to five passengers. With the roomiest interiors for the segment, both the driver and front passenger enjoy 40.1 inches of headroom and 57.5 inches of shoulder room and 41.0 inches of legroom.

Finally safety is always a priority at Mazda! The 2015 CX-5 was named a “Top Safety Pick+” by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) and also received a 5-Star Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

All 2015 CX-5 models are equipped with a SKYACTIV-Chassis and SKYACTIV-Body, two components that help ensure rigidity to provide a driver with precise steering and handling control while employing a reinforced body to help protect occupants during an impact.

The SKYACTIV-Body is comprised of 61 percent high-tensile steel, creating a lighter, stronger body with improved handling. All 2015 CX-5 models are equipped with standard safety features such as six airbags (advanced dual front, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain), an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), a Traction Control System (TCS), a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), front and rear side crumple zones, side-impact door beams, a foldaway brake and accelerator pedal assembly, three-point safety belts and adjustable headrests for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters as well as Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH). Finally a New Vehicle Limited Warranty includes a comprehensive three-year/36,000-mile warranty, which covers every part of the vehicle, except those subject to normal wear, a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.

With nearly 700 Mazda dealerships across America, I am sure you can find one that will give you the opportunity to test drive the CX-5 and see for yourself the quality, economy and power Mazda has been providing it’s customers for decades.

Information for this review was provided by the Mazda Media website

2015 Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrioby

The 2015 Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio falls under the category of “pure fun” when it comes to your daily commute. It’s also a visual paradox, because looking at it from the outside you get a sense of it’s size compared to that huge VW bug right next to you, but once you get inside, physics bends space and the Fiat 500 seems like you just stepped into another entire world of spacious style, power and unique exterior and interior design elements. Since 1957, the Fiat 500 has embodied Italian style, allowing the Cinquecento to become one of the most iconic automobiles of all time. Nearly 60 years later, the Fiat 500 1957 Edition returns to showrooms to commemorate its successful history.

The Fiat 500 Lounge model, the 1957 Edition employs classic exterior colors for this limited edition Cinquecento, including Bianco (white), Verde Chiaro (light green) or Celeste (celestial blue). An exclusive 16-inch retro wheel design features a wide chromed lip, body-color accent and large center cap with historic "FIAT" emblem. Finishing off the look are the "FIAT" badges on the front fascia and rear lift gate. Keeping the vintage look is an Avorio (ivory) interior, contrasted by premium Marrone (brown) leather seats. Avorio accent stitching vertically crosses the seatbacks and seat cushions, while detailed stitching at the perimeter adds to the look of high craftsmanship. For added contrast, Grigio (grey) door panels feature a unique Avorio inner panel, while Marrone door armrests and shift boot (with manual transmission) are color-keyed to the leather seats for a harmonious look. To help put you in the mood, Fiat has provided the six-speaker and 276-watt FIAT premium audio system with SiriusXM Radio is also included.

The Fiat 500 1957 Edition features the innovative 1.4-liter MultiAir engine and C514 five-speed manual transmission, delivering an EPA estimated 31 miles per gallon (mpg) city and 40 mpg highway. A driver-selectable "Sport" mode on the instrument panel helps to unleash a more aggressive performance. Additionally, an optional six-speed automatic transmission with driver-selectable gear changes is also available. In Sport mode, the automatic transmission offers a more aggressive shift schedule and throttle map for improved engine responsiveness. For the driving enthusiast who wants a Fiat 500 Sport with more power and performance, the 2014 Fiat 500 Turbo answers the call with a 135-horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine, twin intercoolers and sport-tuned exhaust to deliver 34 percent more power (135 vs. 101 horsepower) and 53 percent more torque (150 vs. 98 lb.-ft.) compared to the Fiat 500’s naturally aspirated 1.4-liter MultiAir engine. Ad to that some dynamic styling, sport-tuned suspension, track-proven brakes and unique sport-styled interior, and you have a unique driving/riding experience you will enjoy for years to come. In addition, a track-proven C510 five-speed manual transmission offers an intermediate shaft with equal-length half shafts to mitigate torque steer. The 500 Turbo also offers sport-tuned spring rates, shock tuning and steering calibration, along with a unique lower-control arm for spirited handling.

Just like the original Cinquecento in 1957, the 2015 Fiat 500 and 500c showcase the brand’s ability to produce great small cars that bring back the “fun” to driving, by using “simple design, beautiful craftsmanship and timeless value.” My Fiat 500 had a sticker price of just fewer than 24 thousand dollars, American. Information for this review was provided by the Fiat Media website.

2015 Mazda CX-9

2015 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring

by: Albert Fender

The 2015 Mazda CX-9 is impressing the automotive world with spacious seating for seven in its multi-configuration three rows, that make the CX-9 extremely functional in any kind of situation, offering consumers unmatched dynamics, reliable safety and appealing design. Available in three trims: Sport, Touring and Ground Touring.

Under the hood a strong MZR 3.7-liter V-6 engine powers this mighty mid-size SUV with engine performance topping 273 horsepower at 6,250 rpm for effortless acceleration and passing performance. There is a single transmission option – an Aisin-supplied six-speed Sport AT automatic with a manual mode. Despite not having a great deal of choice in your transmissions, you will find it capable of smooth take offs and a quiet cruising at highway speeds. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard on CX-9 models while an optional Active Torque All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system is available for all trim levels. This AWD system rapidly adjusts to changing traction. The EPA-estimated fuel economy rating for CX-9 is 17 city/24 highway/19 combined mpg for FWD models and 16 city/22 highway/18 combined mpg for those equipped with AWD.

The CX-9’s fascia features the brand’s “signature wing” five-point grille with chrome highlight. You have a choice of color pallets to work with when it comes to it’s exterior finish: Blue Reflex, Crystal White Pearl, Jet Black, Liquid Silver, Meteor Gray, Titanium Flash Mica, Zeal Red. A steeply raked windshield highlights the vehicle’s lean roofline. Standard 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels wrapped in P245/60R18 all-season tires do a great job of keeping the CX-9 on the road, but is further enhanced in Grand Touring models which feature 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels dusted in a stain chrome finish. Grand Touring vehicles are outfitted with P245/50R20-sized all-season tires.

The CX-9’s provides a generous 139.4 cubic feet of passenger volume with headroom volumes of 39.6 inches, 39.0 inches and 35.4 inches in the front, second and third rows, respectively. Needless to say, all seven seating positions experience ample room. Cargo space is important so with the third-row seats up, CX-9 offers 17.2 cubic feet of rear cargo space. But when you really need some space, both second and third rows fold flat to provide up to 100.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity from the rear hatch and up toward the front-row’s seat backs.

The 2015 CX-9 is available in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trims, all 2015 CX-9 models offer three-zone automatic climate control air conditioning, cruise control, anti-pinch power windows with one-touch up/down operation for front windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry with a retractable key, a trip computer, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise control operations, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, Bluetooth®-enabled hands-free audio and phone connectivity, a 5.8-inch full-color in-dash multi-information display (MID) touch screen, auxiliary jack and USB connection ports as well as enhanced audio features such as HD Radio™ Technology, Pandora® and audio receipt/delivery of smartphone-compatible messages.

If that were not enough, if you move up to the Touring model, standard amenities include leather-trimmed upholstery in black or sand, an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat with power lumbar support, a four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, auto on/off headlights, a Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system, Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), rear backup sensors and a rearview camera. The Grand Touring models upgrade to 20-inch satin chrome-finish aluminum alloy wheels matched with P245/50R20 all-season radials. This trim adds chrome exterior door handles, rain-sensing windshield wipers, an anti-theft alarm, fog lights, exterior mirrors with turn indicators, power outside mirrors with memory and an automatic tilt-down feature, a power lift gate, auto on/off bi-xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights with manual leveling, LED daytime running lights, a three-position memory driver’s seat and a HomeLink® auto-dimming rear mirror.

All 2015 CX-9 models are equipped with standard safety features such as six airbags (advanced dual front, front seat-mounted and full-length side curtain), an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), a Traction Control System (TCS), Roll Stability Control (RSC), a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), front and rear side crumple zones, side-impact door beams, a “crushable” brake pedal assembly, three-point safety belts and adjustable headrests for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters as well as Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH).

My review car the 2015 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring has a sticker price of around $39,400.00. Comfort, sleek design, safe, functional and economical to operate, the CX-9 continues to provide the driving public just what it has been looking for. Information for this review was provided by the Mazda Media website.

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