2019 KIA Sorento - Refreshed & Ready For LA Auto Show

KIA Sorento unveiling at AutoMobility LA ... formally the LA Auto Show Press Days. The Sorento sits on the presentation stage next to the recently introduced, and nominated as finalist for 2018 Car Of The Year Stinger GT (left) and the 2018 Niro Plug-In Hybrid (right). Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2017)

2019 KIA Sorento - Refreshed & Ready For LA Auto Show

Kia Motors America (KMA) today unveiled the refreshed 2019 Sorento SUV at the Los Angeles International Auto Show.

Refined, rugged and roomy, the Sorento remains as capable as ever, but touts a number of visual and feature enhancements, inside and out.

Aside from new front and rear fascias, which help achieve a more sophisticated appearance, the cabin is now decidedly more upscale and integrates newly-added technology, including Driver Attention Warning, Lane Keep Assist1 and QuantumLogic™ Surround Sound.

In addition, the Sorento now pairs its available 3.3-liter V6 with a new 8-speed automatic transmission for an even smoother and more seamless driving experience.
[ht: KMA]

See the 2019 KIA Sorento conquer the Gates Of Hell in Moab Utah.

... notes from The EDJE



TAGS: AutoMobility LA, LA Auto Show, KIA, KIA Motors America, Sorento, Moab, Utah, Gates Of Hell, Kia Tech Talk, The EDJE

BMW At The 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show

The 2015 BMW X6 M and X5 M. Image Credit: BMW AG

BMW At The 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show

As usual, BMW did not disappoint the car enthusiast with its presentations at Los Angeles.  BMW chose diversity in unveiling four models at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show.  Two of these were World Premiers while the other two are new to the US market.

The aggressive 2015 BMW X6 M in Laguna Seca Blue as seen at the LA Auto Show. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

"Innovative technology and powerful presence" is the way BMW describes the new X5 M and the X6 M.  Both making their world premier in Los Angeles. These vehicles are unfazed by any weather and road conditions and yet can be "thrillingly dynamic" on the track. Like all Motorsport BMW's they have been designed for an exceptional driving experience.

The 2015 X5 M as seen at the LA Auto Show. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Both the X5 M and X6 M are powered by the same V8 with M Twin Power Turbo technology generating an output of 575 hp and a maximum torque of 553 ft. lbs.  Both vehicles are equipped as standard with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic propelling them from 0-62 mph in 4.2 seconds. Even with this substantial power, fuel economy and CO2 emissions are about 20% lower than previous models.

The interior of the X6 M. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Joey Hand, of BMW racing fame, was on hand for the premier. Stepping out of his current ride, a BMW M4 DTM, he had a chance to take the X6 M for a few laps at Texas and was impressed with the its agility, speed, and stopping power. He was looking forward to driving the car more at Laguna Seca which is one of his favorite tracks. It sounds like BMW hit the mark again with it's new X6 M.

The US Premier of the 2015 BMW 228i Convertible. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

One of the new models for introduction into the US market in February 2015 is the BMW 2-Series Convertible.  Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO of BMW North America mentioned that Los Angeles was the perfect location to unveil this new model because of its great top-down year round weather.  The electrically operated soft-top is acoustically optimized for comfort and can be closed in 20 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph.

The 2-Series Convertible will be available as two models; the 320 hp M 235i and the 240 hp 228i.  The M 235i will go from 0-62 mph in 5.2 seconds while the 228i takes 6.1 seconds.  The M 235i can be equipped with a Six-Speed manual transmission or the Eight-Speed  Steptronic Sport transmission which will be standard on xDrive versions as well as the 228i Convertible.

The driver oriented interior of the 2015 BMW 228i Convertible with optional red leather. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The interior is driver focused and contains the high-quality materials that BMW is noted for.  The specially designed climate control panel features a display with white readouts.  With the top down the standard climate control system takes into account the impact of the airstream on the temperature.  The optional leather trim includes surfaces that use SunReflective technology to reduce the extent the leather is heated by the sun.

The rear seating area as seen on the 2015 BMW 228i Convertible. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Intelligent connectivity between driver, vehicle, and the outside world is another step forward for BMW. Among items found in the BMW ConnectedDrive program are the rear view camera, Parking Assistant, System Driving Assistant which includes Lane Departure Warning and Collision Warning.  The 2-Series Convertible is BMW's first model that can be upgraded with the new-generation Navigation system Professional which allows free over -the-air updates via the built-in SIM card.

The 2015 BMW X6 making its debut at the LA Auto Show. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The final vehicle making it's first US showing is the 2nd generation BMW X6. The X6 captures the imagination of the Sport Activity Coupe with its even more potent presence, the extrovert athleticism of its design, and its standout performance.  The X6 will be offered as two models.  The xDrive 50i offering 445 hp and the xDrive 35i offering 300 hp.

The beautiful interior as seen on the 2015 BMW X6. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Both models come equipped with the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and BMW xDrive all wheel drive technology. Optioned with one of the three Adaptive Suspension packages the new X6 offers a supreme driving experience to any type of driver wanting the sporty looks and functionality that the X6 offers in a larger sport activity coupe.
(words and photographs by Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images unless otherwise noted)

... notes from The EDJE

CONNECTED – THE KEY WORD FOR THE 2014 LA AUTO SHOW

2015 Audi  TTS with Mark Dahncke on right in background as seen on the opening day of the Los Angeles Auto Show. Image Credit: Brandon O’Brien / Motor Driven Images

CONNECTED – THE KEY WORD FOR THE 2014 LA AUTO SHOW

Are you “connected”?  Or should I say is your car “connected”?  This is a key topic at the Los Angeles Auto Show which opened to the media on November 18th.

There were a number of programs dealing with the future of the “Connected Car”.  This is not the future in, ten years, but next year.  One speaker likened this to the “period of the muscle cars”. He stated that if you missed that era you will not want to miss this one.  Miss it?  I do not think any car owner will be able to miss it. 

So what does “Connected Car” technology entail?  Smartphone integration, voice activated systems, your car receiving software updates from the manufacturer (Tesla), automotive apps, and autonomous drive to name a few.  Only time will tell if all of these will last the test of time or prove their safety. Two of the manufacturers that presented their products were Audi and Volvo.

Audi has taken the centrally mounted CRT and moved it into the instrument cluster.  In collaboration with nVidia they have developed what Audi calls “the virtual cockpit”. A concept very similar to the “glass cockpits” found in all modern airliners and many newer private aircraft.  According to Mark Dahncke of Audi this will only be available as a standard feature on the 2015 Audi TT models. At this time, it is unlikely that it will be an option on other models.

Audi / nVidia Virtual Cockpit components. Image Credit: Brandon O’Brien / Motor Driven Images

The feeling is that since this is driver oriented it may not be appropriate in a larger sedan where the passengers may want to have control over systems. In the virtual cockpit the driver will have control over all common functions via the centrally mounted MMI controller with displays being easily viewed within the instrument cluster.  Future models may incorporate both the virtual cockpit as well as a centrally mounted CRT to allow for passenger interaction.

Instrument cluster set to Sport Mode. Image Credit: Brandon O’Brien / Motor Driven Images

What this author found interesting was the Google Maps mode which places a graphic map within the cluster showing current location and route.  Turning the MMI knob zoomed the picture in or out with instantaneous resolution correction.  The system will also show active traffic alerts and is voice programmable.

Instrument cluster set to Google Maps. Image Credit: Brandon O’Brien / Motor Driven Images

Close-up of the Google map viewed from the driving position. Note the presence of the tachometer and speedometer. Image Credit: Brandon O’Brien / Motor Driven Images

 On the other end of the spectrum Volvo, for a number of years,  has been working on the autonomous self driving car.  Eric Coelingh was kind enough to speak with me about the benefits of this type of vehicle. These cars a conventional in all aspects, i.e. they have brake and accelerator pedals and a steering wheel.  Like “cruise control” there is a button on the steering wheel that activates the self driving mode. If you are on a road and you want to drive, go ahead. But when the traffic is a mess, push the button and sit back.

the 2017 Volvo V60 Drive Me/Self-Drive. Image Credit: Brandon O’Brien / Motor Driven Images

The idea is that in this day of technology where more individuals are involved in accidents due to inattention (cell phones, messaging, eating) that a self driving automobile may be the answer to these safety concerns.  Also, traffic has become an increasing issue all over the world. More cars generally necessitate larger highways.  With our current fixed lane size, the only way to increase road size is to physically expand it. One concept that Volvo has is that with a self driving car lane size can actually be decreased possibly allowing for an additional lane without expanding the highway.

Eric Coelingh and the Self Driving Volvo V60. Image Credit: Brandon O’Brien / Motor Driven Images

In Sweden and in this country there are a limited number of partially autonomous cars being tested by Volvo. In 2017 Volvo will lease 100 fully autonomous cars to lessees in Sweden for a 1-year trial. This trial will be designed to see how the general public adapts to this new concept in driving.  If the test phase is successful we may see more self driving cars entering California.  

How nice would it be to be stuck in traffic on the 101 through LA and all you had to do was to sit back, answer your emails, or read your kindle?  The technology is here today and we are getting connected.
[words and photographs by Brandon O’Brien / Motor Driven Images]

... notes from The EDJE

New Format MPG Track Days Off To A Good Start

Motorsports Report managing editor Edmund Jenks takes the first drive of the day at Big Willow in the new 5th generation Dodge VIPER T/A production two-seater super car. The Yorange 2015 Viper has not been outfitted with the SRT performance division’s 707-horsepower Hellcat engine (which was available in a lime green Charger and also driven at Big Willow) but its 8.4-liter V-10 engine is now rated at 645 horsepower, up 5 horses on the previous model year. Torque remains unchanged at 600 ft.-pounds. Production of this particular model in specialized colors (Competition Blue, Yorange, and Venom Black) will be limited to 96 units. Image Credit: Albert Wong

New Format MPG Track Days Off To A Good Start

The Motor Press Guild (MPG), the largest automotive media association in North America, re-launched its annual Track Days media event with an all-new program this week on Oct. 14-15 at the Hilton Pasadena, the Rose Bowl, and Willow Springs International Speedway.

Pulling in elements from business retreats and professional conferences, the re-imagined MPG Track Days program included a discussion panel led by A-list media, presentations from industry executives and exclusive test drives of more than 50 new cars, trucks and SUVs on public roads, closed courses and an historic raceway.

Chris Kersting, CEO of SEMA, the trade association representing the $33B automotive aftermarket industry, shared his insights on the latest parts and accessory trends ahead of the SEMA Show. The SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) Show, scheduled for November 4-7 at the Las Vegas Convention Center and plays host to more than 130,000 attendees and is where the industry comes to do business. For the first time in the Show's nearly 50-year history, the general public will be invited to partake in the action at a separate event called SEMA Ignited after the Show closes.

MPG Track Days “Secrets of Success in Automotive Journalism” panel shared many strongly held opinions in a lively and open, back and forth, forum. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2014)

MPG Track Days' professional media panel this year, entitled "Secrets of Success in Automotive Journalism," was moderated by Sue Callaway, editor-in-chief of THE AUTO 100 and senior contributing editor at Fortune magazine. Callaway and the panel shared insights on what it takes to be an influential journalist in today's complex media world. Panelists included "BJ" Chris Woodyard, auto industry reporter at USA Today; "The Retiring" Mark Vaughn, west coast editor at Autoweek; "Just a grateful blogger" Michael Harley, west coast editor at Autoblog.com; "From radio to video" Micah Muzio, managing editor for video, Kelley Blue Book; and "Managing Motormouth" Michelle Naranjo, editor-in-chief at Autobytel.com. A second panel discussed the role of technology in the auto industry, from design to driving.

As in years past, MPG journalist members drove and evaluated vehicles from nearly every automaker in various environments on road, off road and on track. A back-to-back comparison test of compact SUVs and luxury sedans were staged at the historic Rose Bowl, followed by a street drive through scenic Pasadena. On-track drives at Big Willow and Streets of Willow courses were held at the historic Willow Springs International Raceway in Rosamond, CA. An off-road course through the hills overlooking the Raceway hosted a selection of trucks and SUVs, including the incredibly capable 550hp Lingenfelter Chevy Reaper pickup truck.

The much anticipated, limited-edition Reaper, a no-nonsense performance off-road edition of the 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500 pickup, is now available at select General Motors dealerships nationwide. The heavily customized Chevy Silverado that can be ordered with a supercharged 550hp 6.2L, comes in red, white, gray and black with a long list of standard features: three-inch lift, long-travel off-road suspension; Fox Racing shocks; 20-inch exclusive Reaper wheels mounted on General Grabber LT tires; and a Lingenfelter performance exhaust system. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2014)

"Our track event has always provided a vital comparative driving experience for professional journalists to evaluate several cars in a short amount of time," said Joni Gray, MPG president. "This year, we've stepped up our program with newsworthy speakers and hands-on instruction to provide our members with even more content to fill the stories, reviews, TV segments and podcasts they create in the automotive media space."

MPG members were treated to a special ride along in a 2015 Nissan GT-R NISMO - one of only three in the country -- with 2011 Nissan GT Academy winner Bryan Heitkotter.

On the evening of Oct. 14, the gala dinner prepared by celebrity executive chef Gina Rodriguez was served. Rodriguez was a contestant on Food Network's hit show, Chopped. In the morning following the dinner, members were transported between the Hilton Pasadena and Willow Springs on Wi-Fi enabled luxury corporate coaches, which allowed members to network and be productive on the 90 minute ride each way.

MPG Track Days was open to all Motor Press Guild members, but only journalist members were credentialed to drive vehicles.

For information about becoming a member of MPG, please visit www.MotorPressGuild.org, or follow us on the MPG Facebook and Twitter pages.

Presenting Sponsors:
SEMA - Specialty Equipment Market Association
Nissan North America

Sponsor provided street drive cars lined up on the parking lot tarmac at the Southwest front entrance of the Rose Bowl complex. Journalist members had an enjoyable time driving a neighborhood street course that had all cars pass by a California Highway Patrol field office just off of the 210 Freeway. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2014)

Participating Sponsors:
Volkswagen of America
Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America
Mercedes-Benz North America
Lingenfelter
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Mazda
Ford Motor Co.
Subaru of America
Kia Motors
Hyundai Motors
Chrysler Corp.
Jeep
Fiat
Alfa Romeo
Infiniti
Honda North America
Acura
BMW North America
Volvo
Toyota
Scion
MINI
Porsche Cars North America
Jaguar
Land Rover
Tesla Motors
NVIDIA
Newspress
PR Newswire
(ht: Doug Stokes - MPG Track Days Committee)

... notes from The EDJE

60 Total Reveals, 30 World Debuts, Confirmed For The 2014 LA Auto Show

The Cadillac booth under construction at the 2012 L.A. Auto Show. GM's luxury arm has confirmed the high-performance ATS-V sedan will make its world debut at the 2014 L.A. show in November. Image Credit: Gary Friedman/Los Angeles Times

60 Total Reveals, 30 World Debuts, Confirmed For The 2014 LA Auto Show

Here's the breakdown of the 2014 Press & Trade Days (Nov. 18-20) at the Los Angeles Convention Center:

** Half of all unveilings will be never-before-seen global premieres
** More than 63 percent of global debuts are luxury and performance vehicles
** Technology announcements expected from OEMs across the board
** Important statements regarding several brands' evolution of their design language
** Several brands entering into new market segments
** Fastest growing SUV/CUV category to represent one-fifth of this year's global debuts

The Los Angeles Auto Show confirmed today that 30 world debuts (totaling 60 vehicle unveilings overall) will be introduced in front of a global audience during its 2014 Press & Trade Days at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Almost every manufacturer has news to make in Los Angeles, but several automakers stand out with multiple global premieres of significant new vehicles.

Audi is planning one of its biggest LA Auto Shows to date, with up to eight total debuts, three of which are global, all to be presented by chairman of the board, Rupert Stadler. Mercedes-Benz will feature three world premieres, which will be showcased alongside the brand's two North American debuts, while Porsche will hold several world reveals. Mazda will feature three global premieres, one of which is an all-new vehicle. BMW has confirmed two world debuts and three North American debuts, and Chevrolet has also committed to two global premieres.

Details on the 2015 Chrysler 300 are light, but the American automaker is expected to update the sedan with new styling along with numerous upgrades to the interior. Image Credit: AutoGuide/Fiat Chrysler

Cadillac has already announced its world reveal of the high-performance 2015 ATS-V, while Chrysler plans to introduce its completely refreshed 300 and 300C models.

An effort to establish a greater luxury perception upon Acura by Honda was the theme at a recent Motor Press Guild meeting at the Honda Collection Museum in Torrance. Michael Accavitti, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Acura Division delivered a keynote address on the launch of the all-new TLX luxury performance sedan. The Motor Press Guild (MPG) is the sponsoring association for the Los Angeles Auto Show where the MPG honors innovation with it's Innovation Vehicle of the Year, or IVY Award. The IVY recognizes vehicles that represent segment-busting technology, engineering, and other significant factors that move the industry in a notable direction. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2014)

Scion also recently announced its plans for a global premiere of an all-new vehicle. Other brands making big statements with world premieres include Acura, Lexus, Toyota and Volkswagen. A few other brands that are keeping their plans under wraps are expected to add to LA's roster of global premieres.

There's little doubt that the 2015 BMW i8 is one of the most radical and groundbreaking performance cars this industry has seen in a long time. From its unique carbon-intensive construction to its 1.5-liter, three-cylinder and electric motor plug-in powertrain to its concept-car originated appearance in 2009 , the flagbearer for BMW's new i venture challenges the very notion of what it takes to be a supercar. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2013)

At least a dozen manufacturers have confirmed North American introductions, including Land Rover, who will reveal its all-new 2015 Discovery Sport crossover. Also expected are the MINI hardtop four-door and the Superleggera Vision concept, a redesigned Kia Sorrento, the convertible versions of the 228i and M235i from BMW, the Mitsubishi XR-PHEV concept vehicle and a dramatic statement by Volvo, who is re-launching its entire brand with the introduction of the second generation XC90, the company's first model in four years. Fiat, Infiniti and Nissan are also verified to make North American debuts.

Volvo's "Drive Me" autonomous vehicle will also make its North American premiere on the Connected Car Expo (CCE) show floor on Nov. 18, with executives discussing the car's progressive autopilot technology. For the second consecutive year, the LA Auto Show's CCE will take place in conjunction with Press & Trade Days and will feature 80 presenting experts, 20 conference topics and executive interviews, multiple news conferences and an expanded 50,000 square foot exhibit space. Breaking technology news from Audi, Hyundai, KPMG and several other exhibitors will highlight a full day of expert presentations. Additional information HERE.

"With this debut lineup, Los Angeles will deliver the best of what's to come in the automotive space and we're eager to see how it all unfolds," said LA Auto Show President, Lisa Kaz. "The automotive landscape is ever-changing and we continue to be at the forefront of the groundbreaking news."
(ht: LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW)

... notes from The EDJE

Mazda Burnishes New Mazda6 Clean-Diesel Reputation

Mazda announces its participation in the 2013 Grand Am racing series in front of the media crowd gathered at the LA Auto Show during Press Days. Image Credit:Edmund Jenks (2012)

Mazda Burnishes New Mazda6 Clean-Diesel Reputation

Mazda North American Operations, in a move to further enhance its reputation as a company that builds cars that are fun to drive, announced that the new, redesigned Mazda6, Mazda's flagship mid-sized car, will be entered into the Grand Am series running on Mazda's SKYACTIV technology clean-diesel.

The 2014 Mazda6 will make its motorsports debut at the Rolex 24 endurance race on January 26-27, 2013 in Daytona Beach, Fla. The Mazda6 racecar will be powered by a Mazda SKYACTIV-D Clean Diesel engine (video) and is being developed to compete in the new GRAND-AM GX class.

This announced entrant marks the first time a diesel-powered vehicle of any type will have ever raced at the Rolex 24. Mazda will be seeking their 24th class win in the American endurance classic, having most recently won in 2008 and 2010.

John Doonan, Motorsports Director, Mazda North American Operations noted that:

“We have been eager to announce this car for months, but had to wait until the production car was revealed. The SpeedSource engineering team, working with the Mazda engineers, have been flat out for months on engine development. We’re happy to report that the engine is meeting the performance targets for both power and endurance. That means 400+ hp for over 50 hours, with an engine that includes a very long list of production Mazda parts. This is not a pure race engine; it is a production block SKYACTIV-D. We’re excited about having our newest engine powering our newest car.”

A few of the Mazda Young Guns 2013 - Kenton Koch, Elliott Skeer, Gustavo Menezes, Joey Jordan, at LA Auto Show. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2012)

The Mazda6 was one of the first models declared eligible for the GX class, along with Lotus Evora GX and Porsche Cayman. The class will help nurture emerging technologies such as alternative fuels.

When one first sees the redesigned Mazda6, one is struck at the overall upgrade to the styling, primarily with the front end grille and rear tail light configuration. The front impresses the eye with a look similar to a blending of a Mercedes and a Volvo (not bad styling company), with the rear leaving one with the feel of a high-end Lexus without the ridging jut of the tail-light ... the Mazda6 being smoothed and rounded, say sophisticated.

Strongly influenced by the TAKERI Concept, the Mazda6 makes no excuses for its style, safety and spunk – qualities usually absent in a mid-size sedan. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2012) 

The GX racing version of the Mazda6 is being developed by SpeedSource and Mazda engineers. The challenge expects to have two factory entries ready to compete at Daytona.

GX will join the Daytona Prototype and GT classes in events sanctioned by Grand-Am Road Racing in 2013, the last year before Grand-Am and the American Le Mans Series merge in a single organization that has yet to be named.

Models eligible for GX besides the Mazda6, Evora and Cayman include the Audi TT, BMW 1 Series, Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus sedan, Hyundai Genesis, Subaru BRZ, Scion FR-S, Nissan 370Z or Altima, and Volkswagen Eos.

The KODO "Soul of Motion" design language commands and creates every facet of the vehicle's handsome sheet metal, from its alluringly swept elongated hood and cab-forward proportions to the chiseled steel shaping its frame, the Mazda6 suggests power and elegance before the gas pedal is even floored to go. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2012)

In making its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the highly-anticipated mid-size sedan will go on sale in January 2013 and be equipped first with a SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine.  The SKYACTIV-D-equipped version will follow suit during the second half of the year, making Mazda the first Asian manufacturer to offer a modern-technology clean-diesel engine in a non-commercial vehicle. The 2014 Mazda6 also will be the first production vehicle to feature Mazda's capacitor-based brake energy regeneration system called i-ELOOP.

... notes from The EDJE


** Article first published as Mazda Burnishes New Mazda6 Clean-Diesel Reputation on Technorati **

Ford To Display Tanner Foust Signature Focus At LA Auto Show

The new TF logo-ed very high-powered Foust signature Ford Focus at the Irwindale Event Center (SEMA Video HERE). Image Credit: Doug Stokes (2012)

Ford To Display Tanner Foust Signature Focus At LA Auto Show

Multi-discipline race driver, movie stuntman, TV star, and now car designer, Tanner Foust, visited the Irwindale Event Center on Sunday to "break in" a (very) special, limited-edition Focus that not only looked like something Foust would be driving on the streets, but that had his name and his distinctive TF logo emblazoned all over it.

Close up of the "TF" logo-ed racing stripe on the new signature Ford Focus. Image Credit: Doug Stokes (2012)

The car was just "off the boat"(actually it had come over to LA by truck) from an award-winning turn as one of the stars of the recent SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The four door hatchback had barely 50 miles on the clock, and, although Foust had been behind the wheel for a whole bunch of publicity shots at SEMA ... He had not yet driven the sexy-bad prototype.

That's where an off-day on the vast, empty East parking lot at IEC came in handy. At 'Vegas the car was never even fired up, or let alone driven, so there was some interest in breaking it in and getting a bit of actual seat time before it was to be on display at the LA Auto Show scheduled to open to the press on Wednesday, the 28th.

As one might expect, the car ran flawlessly. There were no formal specs officially available at the IEC shakedown runs.  But, we can indicate that this special Foust-signature model was "loaded" with cool features, and that the horsepower rating for this very special edition turbo-charged 6-speed Focus ST model was (and we quote:) "Oh ... somewhere around 300."

Close up of the "TF" logo-ed rocker panel racing stripe on the side of the new signature Ford Focus. Image Credit: Doug Stokes (2012)

Foust's willing co-conspirator in the custom body, trick semi-gloss silvery paint, and cool interior work was none other than Mike Spagnola, chief instigator and grand major-domo of Street Scene Equipment the well-known southern California custom body parts manufacturer. The basic look here is best explained as "stylistically belligerent". Subtlety is sure not the strong suite here. They WILL see you coming in this one (and a millisecond later they'll see you going).

All of the (by now) frothing at the bit Focus fans will have to wait for the magazine articles and web reviews to get all of the specs as well as to find out the information on where to buy one of these way cool little Ford supercars designed (and now test-driven at Irwindale) by Foust, who admitted to being much more familiar with the race track than the parking lot, having tested many cars for TV and raced successfully there numerous times in pro Drifting and Rallycross events there over the past years.

See the Tanner Foust signature Ford Focus on display at the LA Auto Show which opens on November 30th, 2012 and runs through December 9th, 2012.
(ht: Irwindale Event Center)

... notes from The EDJE 


** Article first published as Ford To Display Tanner Foust Signature Focus At LA Auto Show on Technorati **

LA Auto Show Keynote Places Mazda’s Yamanouchi In Spotlight

Mazda CEO Takashi Yamanouchi kicks off the L.A. Auto Show and answers questions from the gathered press with translator at his side. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2011)

LA Auto Show Keynote Places Mazda’s Yamanouchi In Spotlight

Mazda CEO Takashi Yamanouchi kicks off the L.A. Auto Show with an overview of the current state of the automotive industry, including lessons learned after the Japanese earthquake and tsunami, as well as the recent Thai floods. Additionally, Yamanouchi will discussed the theme of the show, “Fuel Efficiency Comes Standard.”

He was introduced by Mitch Bainwol, the new President of Auto Alliance, who is attending his first auto show after spending many years associated with the Grammys.

Tahashi, at 67 years old, has spent 44 years in the auto industry and became a corporate officer in his 50′s.

After introducing himself, he reviewed the recovery process from the Tsunami and floods in Thailand. He stated that he learned,”Remarkable things can be accomplished when people work together.”

Full production was able to resume in three months as opposed to the six to nine months predicted by observers. This was achieved by looking at supply chain strength through a global outlook.

This morning Mazda will introduce the new CX 5 and this car exemplifies the theme of the show … “Fuel Efficiency Comes Standard.”

The MX 5 has become the largest selling mark and Zoom-Zoom the most recognizable trade mark phrase in the automobile industry according to the Guinness Book of World Records.

Zoom-Zoom is not just a selling phrase but embodies the passion to bring fun driving automobiles to the consuming public. Of the 28 brands on the market, Consumer Reports places Mazda as #4 for quality and design among all marks.

SKYACTIV technology will bring an overall fuel economy by 30% by 2008 and with the new designs planned to be introduced, by 2015 Mazda expects to improve another 30%. Lightweight materials and slippery body design has helped, but the SKYACTIV engine, transmission and body/chassis design technology contributes by providing good acceleration along with fuel efficiency. For example, the 1.2 L engine (Mazda 2) delivers 0-60 in just under 9 seconds.

SKYACTIV manufacturing concepts allow Mazda to produce gas and diesel engines in the same plant.

The new 2.0 L introduced in the Mazda 3 SKYACTIV in 2012 delivers 40 mpg fuel efficiency.

Mazda will continue to build on 3 million vehicles per year to deliver value to the people and customers who invest in Mazda’s future. Most cars sold will still be those that use standard gasoline.

… notes from The EDJE