The 2019 Acura RDX is one of the company’s largest designs in the past decade. With new sheet metal and a new powertrain, the Acura RDX is ready to take the luxury crossover market by storm. And recent sales figures reflect it’s been doing just that, at least in the past month. However, there’s still one important question to ask. Is this $45,000 crossover faster than a Ford Fiesta…ST? In the latest episode of our game show series, we answer that all important question. Not only that, but you may be surprised just how close the results are!
Let’s start with the figures. In one corner, we have the upstart challenger: the 2019 Acura RDX. Acura’s newest crossover is packing a fashionable 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). It makes 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, all of which is routed through a new ten-speed automatic transmission. The RDX also has torque vectoring, which pushes the outside wheels in the corners to make sure this crossover is light on its feet. However, speaking of light, that’s one thing the Acura is not. This all-wheel drive 2019 Acura RDX, with the A-Spec package, tips the scales at 4,015 pounds.
Which will be faster: the more powerful 2019 Acura RDX, or the lighter Ford Fiesta ST?
Power…or weight?
Now, in the other corner, we have the returning contender. It’s our long-term 2017 Ford Fiesta ST. It’s also packing a turbocharged engine, albeit a smaller one. The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine punches out 197 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque. All that is routed to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. It’s down on power, but it’s also significantly down on weight. Especially with Geoff, our resident teddy bear, weighing the Acura down. The Fiesta ST is a featherweight against the 2019 Acura RDX, at just 2,720 pounds.
Check out the video above to see the results! Come back to TFLcar.com and subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow on YouTube to see if more family cars are faster than a Ford Fiesta…ST!
For some, the Suzuki Samurai – also known in the U.S. as the Sidekick and Vitara in later generations – was an oddity among off-roaders, to say the least. In a world of Jeep Wranglers, Toyota 4Runners, Ford Broncos and Chevy Blazers, the Samurai looked…well, a bit silly. That said, the boxy little SUV took a different approach than its larger contemporaries. Instead of a large, ungainly vehicle that lumbers over obstacles in its path, the Jimny, as its known in global markets, hops over the terrain. Weighing just over a ton, the small SUV could get by with its 1.3-liter, 101 horsepower four-cylinder engine.
Now, after twenty years in production, Suzuki is replacing the Jimny with a new model. It will go on sale next year in Europe and other global markets, but not in the U.S. That is, of course, because Suzuki withdrew from our market in 2012 after slow sales. Suzuki’s American arm actually ended up declaring bankruptcy as a result of the ordeal. However, that doesn’t mean we wouldn’t love seeing this quirky off-roader on our roads. It’s like a miniature G-Wagen.
2019 Suzuki Jimny launched in Japan
After two decades, the 2019 Suzuki Jimny has emerged into the spotlight in Japan. Instead of a 1.3-liter gasoline engine or even a diesel unit, the new model’s packing a new 1.5-liter engine. Exact power figures weren’t released, but we do know that engine will come mated to five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions. The latter isn’t the most modern setup, and the car also sticks to a manual low-range selector. However, the rugged, simple setup does mean less that could go wrong in the 2019 Suzuki Jimny.
With 8.3 inches of ground clearance, the 2019 Suzuki Jimny comes fairly well-equipped to tackle off-road obstacles. It also has a pretty good 37-degree approach angle, and a 49-degree departure angle. The design takes influence from the older Jimny. It’s still boxy with a mix of retro and modern features.
While the new Jeep Wrangler kicks off at $27,000 for a base Sport, the Jimny will ring in at the equivalent of $18,500, according to some estimates. A cheap, small, fun-looking off-roader for under $20,000? That sounds like it could be a winning combination.
Unfortunately, we’re still not getting it. The 2019 Suzuki Jimny will go on sale worldwide, but not the United States. For some, that’s a pity. Let us know what you think of the new Jimny in the comments below!
Models like the popular BMW 3 Series are assembled in Germany. [Photo: BMW]
The U.S. threatened high tariffs on imported cars from the European Union earlier this year.
U.S. Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell told executives from Daimler Group, Volkswagen, Volkswagen and BMW that President Donald Trump would suspend tariff threats against the EU in exchange for trade concessions, according to a recent Reuters report. German media outlet Handelsblatt reported that Trump wanted the EU to annul duties on U.S. cars imported to the bloc. In exchange, the U.S. would not enact a proposed 20-percent tariff against cars assembled in the EU and shipped overseas.
Presently, the European Union imposes a 10-percent duty on cars imported from the U.S. On the other hand, the U.S. levies a smaller duty on European cars, at 2.5 percent. However, should the 20-percent tariff go into effect, automakers and industry analysts alike believe it would likely upset the current industry model for producing and selling European cars for the American market. To that end, German Chancellor Angela Merkel would also back lowering EU automotive tariffs against the U.S., according to a separate report in Reuters. However, Merkel also stated that the bloc would have to decide as a whole, rather than Germany agreeing to lower tariffs on a unilateral basis. “When we want to negotiate tariffs, on cars for example, we need a common European position and we are still working on it.”
German chancellor Angela Merkel would support lowering current EU tariffs on cars imported from the U.S., according to a Reuters report. [Photo: Wikimedia Commons]
A positive signal moving forward
Nevertheless, support on both the U.S. and EU sides to reduce or withdraw tariffs sent positive signals. U.S. stocks opened higher on Thursday at the hint of concessions on EU automotive tariffs. At this point, neither side has officially agreed to end the current tariffs or new ones. This also does not seem to affect the United States’ current EU tariffs on aluminum and steel. Steel imported from the 28-nation bloc is taxed at 25 percent, while aluminum imports are taxed at 10 percent. Those tariffs also apply to steel and aluminum imported from Canada and Mexico.
Stay tuned to TFLcar.com for more updates! Check back for more news, views and real-world reviews.
The third-generation model Toyota Highlander is now in its fourth year after its most recent redesign in 2013. The company’s midsize SUV – slotted above the RAV4, consists of four trim levels: LE, XLE, Limited and Limited Platinum. The LE is front-wheel drive only, while all other grades offer both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. Powering all Toyota Highlander Hybrid models is a 3.5-liter V6 engine and electronically controlled automatic transmission that offers selectable manual sequential shifting.
Visually, the 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a carryover from the 2017 model year. It features a bolder and more dynamic exterior persona than previous generations. There’s a lower, sleeker roofline and narrowed “A” pillar. Up front, the hood merges with the stylish trapezoidal grille, wraparound headlamps and deeply chiseled and pronounced fenders. The length of the profile, from the front fenders to the rear quarter panels stands out with sculptured wheel wells at all four corners.
[Photo: Toyota]
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
The aft end of the 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid finishes with a height-adjustable rear lift-gate with an available one-touch power open/close and driver selectable memory height settings. Toyota uses acoustic-type glass for the windshield, helping to reduce noise throughout the cabin. Even the panoramic moonroof design works to help reduce wind noise, even when open.
The 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid benefits from a premium interior design and advanced technological features. It offers spacious accommodation for up to eight occupants. There’s an extensive array of standard comfort and technology features. Premium fabrics, available smooth and perforated leather trim seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel add to the Highlander’s upscale interior.
A new roll-top center console provides a comfortable armrest. When it’s fully opened, the console is large enough to hold a large bag. The Highlander feature a 3.5-inch monochrome or 4.2-inch color display, depending on which model you choose. Ambient lighting is available around the front dash. A feature normally relegated to luxury cars, it helps create a more relaxing environment.
The 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provides second and third-row air vents with available three-zone climate control. Upscale models come with heated and ventilated front seats, with an available heated steering wheel and heated second row seats. A panoramic moonroof is also available. Upscale models like the Limited Platinum offer advanced safety technologies such as Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Parking Assist Sonar, and an available Driver Technology Package includes a Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Automatic High Beam Headlights and Safety Connect. Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) driver-assist technology is now standard.
[Photo: Toyota]
PERFORMANCE
The 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid uses a 3.5-liter V6 that delivers 231 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque. Its Hybrid System delivers a maximum of 280 horsepower thanks to front and rear electric motors. It comes coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with a planetary gear unit for gear reduction and power splitting. All Toyota Highlander Hybrid models feature an electronic all-wheel drive control system. AWD-i models are equipped with front and rear electric drive motors.
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid yields an impressive EPA fuel rating of 27 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway – a best-in-class figure. Toyota rates the Highlander Hybrid’s towing capacity at 3,500 pounds.
This latest iteration Highlander handles itself well, considering its 2.5-ton mass. While not a sports car, it performs with surprising stability on the road. It also delivers a comfortable ride. When asked to perform, the duo of electric motors and the 3.5-liter V6 are up to the task.
[Photo: Toyota]
[Photo: Toyota]
TFLCAR’S TAKE
Considering the wide grade range in terms of equipment and feature content, the 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid presents itself as a capable three-row SUV. It comes with a choice of attractive exterior colors and a basic limited warranty coverage. All models come with a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, as well as 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage. The Highlander Hybrid and other models also come standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.
After thorough consideration, the 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid fits the bill as a competent, capable and efficient hybrid SUV.
SPECIFICATIONS: 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited Platinum AWDi
On Sale:
Now
Base MSRP:
$48,280
Price as Tested:
$49,275
Engine:
3.5-liter V6 with dual VVT-I plus three permanent magnet electric motors Hybrid System net 280 horsepower (209 kW) with three permanent magnet Motor Generators – MG1-650V max voltage. Max output MG2=167 hp (123 kW) / 247 lb. ft torque / MG- rear= 68 hp (50 kW) / 103 ft-lb. torque. Sealed nickel metal hydride battery pack with 288V nominal voltage and 45 kW Max power output.
Drivetrain (Layout):
Transversely mounted front engine, all-wheel drive
How does the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine cope in the new Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk?
Jeep has a renowned off-roading reputation that permeates every model throughout the brand. From the iconic Wrangler all the way down to the subcompact Renegade, each car in the lineup does provide some inclination to tackle obstacles off the beaten track. Now, as you would expect, some are more capable than others. While the new Wrangler JL – particularly in Rubicon trim – is trail-ready right out of the box, other models in Jeep’s arsenal also have some helpful tools in their off-road kit. That comes in the form of the Trailhawk trim on the Renegade, Compass, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee.
2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk [Photo: Jeep]In the case of the revised 2019 Jeep Cherokee, what does the Trailhawk trim get you? From $33,320 and up, you get an inch more ground clearance – up to 8.7 inches. There’s an actual low range option, rather than other models like the Renegade that simply lock the transmission in first gear. You also get new wheels and meatier tires, as well as a locking rear differential. But, perhaps most importantly, there’s a new engine in the stable.
We’ve talked about it to great extent in the new Wrangler. However, this is the first chance TFL has had to test the range-topping 2.0-liter turbo engine in the new Cherokee. Making 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, the new engine offers a torquier option to the standard 3.2-liter Pentastar V6. Like the Pentastar, the 2019 Jeep Cherokee’s 2.0-liter engine is also mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Find out how the 2.0-liter turbo Cherokee performs off road in the video above! Stay tuned to TFLcar.com for more Cherokee videos, and subscribe to TFLcar and TFLnow for more news, views and real-world Jeep reviews.
CORRECTION: The article previously stated the Cherokee’s standard engine as a 3.6-liter V6. The standard engine in a Cherokee is a 3.2-liter V6.
June 2018 crossover sales show more growth in almost every segment.
Crossovers make up a massively competitive part of the market. Across the size spectrum from compact to midsize, these vehicles accounted for hundreds of thousands of new car purchases just last month. But which manufacturer came out on top in June 2018? Well, that depends on how you slice it. In this comprehensive sales report, we’ve compared each size category and their competitors to see which one was the best-seller, by sheer volume, last month. We report full-size SUV sales on TFLtruck.com. We’re including mainstream and luxury crossovers in different sections, listed by size category.
Important note: GM just reported their first quarterly results since switching away from monthly sales. Results for GM combine sales from April, May and June 2018.
As gas prices start to rise again, subcompact crossovers saw a spike in sales compared to June 2017. Accounting for GM’s new quarterly reporting, the Chevrolet Trax came out on top, with an average selling rate of 8,835 units per month for April, May and June 2018. Chevrolet sold 26,507 total units of the Trax in the second quarter. The Honda HR-V came out second, while the Jeep Renegade rounded out the top three.
*New model – 2017 sales figures are not available.
**GM reports sales quarterly. 2018 figure is an average across three months.
Compact Crossovers (Winner: Toyota RAV4)
Few surprises here, as the Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue and Honda CR-V round out the top three best-selling compact crossovers. The RAV4 and Rogue were neck-and-neck, while the CR-V gained significant ground over June of last year. Nearly every model in the segment gained sales ground, with the exception of the Subaru Forester and the Kia Sportage.
*New model – 2017 sales figures are not available.
**Includes sales of the Outlander PHEV.
***GM reports sales quarterly. 2018 figure is an average across three months.
Midsize Crossovers/SUVs (Winner: Jeep Grand Cherokee)
FCA made huge gains in the midsize segment this month, eclipsing the Toyota Highlander as the first and second best-selling crossover. The Jeep Grand Cherokee gained 23.0-percent over this time last year, while the 2019 Cherokee nearly doubled the model’s sales from June 2017.
*New model – 2017 sales figures are not available.
**GM reports sales quarterly. 2018 figure is an average across three months.
Subcompact Luxury Crossovers (Winner: BMW X1)
BMW X1. [Photo: BMW]The Mercedes-Benz GLA lost some momentum against its rivals in June, while the BMW X1 remains in the lead position. The BMW X2 gained sales in June 2018, while the Mercedes-Benz GLA shrank against the same time last year.
*New model – 2017 sales figures are not available.
Compact Luxury Crossovers (Winner: Acura RDX)
The Acura RDX emerged victorious in the luxury compact segment this month, thanks to a recent redesign. The Mercedes-Benz GLC still made major gains in June, but lost the overall crown to the RDX. All competitors in this segment gained ground with the exception of the BMW X4. There is a new X4 coming for the 2019 model year.
*New model – 2017 sales figures are not available.
**GM reports sales quarterly. 2018 figure is an average across three months.
Midsize Luxury Crossovers (Winner: Lexus RX)
The Lexus RX managed the top spot in June 2018, outselling the next most popular model, the BMW X5, 2-to-1. Midsize luxury SUV sales were a mixed bag, with Lexus and Audi gaining some ground. Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Porsche lost ground from June 2017.
No Beetles were harmed (fortunately) in this TFL off-road adventure.
The 1971 Volkswagen Super Beetle was one of the most common years for the entire model. That year alone, the German company sold 1.3 million units. One of the traits that made the car so popular undoubtedly its charm, but another was its rugged simplicity. With an air-cooled flat-four engine and a curb weight just under a ton, the 1971 Super Beetle can scamper over just about anything…or can it?
In this episode of the Beetle Diaries, we put our new long-term 1971 Volkswagen Super Beetle to the test. More specifically, does its 60 horsepower engine (mind you, that’s when it was new) have enough oomph to make it up Gold Mine Hill? Will those skinny tires and lack of four-wheel drive see it struggle even getting to the trailhead? Fortunately, because it’s rear-engined and rear-wheel drive, it should have some decent traction as the weight is over the back end. Sure, the 1971 Volkswagen Super Beetle is no Jeep, and that’s exactly why Tommy Mica brought his lifted Wrangler along. You know, just in case something goes wrong.
With no help at all (all right, maybe a little), the 1971 Volkswagen Beetle can go off-road. [Photo: TFLcar]Gold Mine Hill is one off-road gauntlet we use to test the prowess of trucks, SUVs and crossovers. There are three stages to the trail – a steep, rocky ascent; a sharp, off-camber corner; then a narrow, steep, and off-camber climb to the top. Each stage is a test of traction, momentum, ground clearance and skill. While the Beetle has low weight on its side, it doesn’t exactly have power. Or much traction. Or ground clearance. Bearing all that in mind, can it defy the odds and crest the top of Gold Mine Hill? Check out the video above to find out!
Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow for more news, views, and real-world, Beetle Diaries reviews.
Hyundai debunks rumors that it currently plans to merge with FCA. [Photo: Hyundai]
Late last week, a rumor broke out that Hyundai is considering a massive buyout of FCA.
Asia Times recently reported that Hyundai Motor Group CEO Chung Mong-koo was eyeing a possible takeover of Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles. On the heels of some of FCA’s high-profile launches, such as the new Wrangler JL and Ram 1500, the company’s stock has been falling in recent weeks. The report suggested Hyundai’s CEO anticipated a decline and could pull the trigger on a takeover bid, should share prices slip low enough. He allegedly planned to take action before FCA’s annual shareholder’s meeting next April. That’s when FCA’s current CEO Sergio Marchionne plans to retire, and the company will name his successor.
FCA currently owns several brands, including Jeep, Alfa Romeo, Ram, Dodge, Chrysler and Maserati. [Photo: FCA]
Not happening, says Hyundai rep
However, according to a recent CNET article, Hyundai Corporate and Marketing Public Relations senior group manager Michael Stewart said, “that rumor is totally groundless.” At this time, Fiat-Chrysler has not commented on the rumor. If the earlier report did in fact come to pass, Hyundai Motor Group – which also owns Genesis and Kia – would become the largest auto manufacturer in the world. FCA currently owns Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Maserati, Alfa Romeo and Lancia, as well as the Mopar parts brand.
The rumor of Hyundai and FCA banding together is not unfounded. Marchionne has aggressively pursued the possibility of mergers over the years – most notably in his approach to joining forces with General Motors and its CEO, Mary Barra. Volkswagen was also floated as another potential option. Although a tie-up with Volkswagen certainly won’t happen in the wake of the internal trauma of the Dieselgate scandal. Hyundai could also provide FCA with a more cohesive electric vehicle strategy, which FCA has yet to realize.
For now, however, it doesn’t seem like a merger is in the cards. However, as the dynamics shift in future car production and trade between the U.S. and its partners, the subject may come up again. Stay tuned to TFLcar.com for more updates! Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow for more news, views and real-world reviews.
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