Author: Tabitha
The Spymaster keeps seeing reviews by automotive writers complaining about how out of date Dodge’s minivan is and how its retirement can’t be too far off. Although there’s no news as to a departure or replacement date, it doesn’t seem the Grand Caravan is leaving anytime soon, other than from showrooms into the driveways of thousands of new owners. For as old as it is (the current platform dates back to 2008), Dodge’s big, boxy carryall was the top-selling minivan for calendar year 2017, besting the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna and Kia Sedona. The Grand Caravan also beat the Chrysler…
The Sleuth has received official word that Mazda’s two-seat roadster will get a power infusion for the 2019 model year. The MX-5 Miata’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine will produce 181 horses and 151 pound-feet of torque, which is up from 155/148. To get nearly 20 percent more power, Mazda reduced the weight of the pistons and connecting rods, increased exhaust-manifold flow and put in higher-pressure fuel injectors (to name just a few adjustments). There are also minor tweaks to the interior, plus new alloy-wheel designs. The 2019 MX-5 is expected to debut later this summer. The MX-5 will get 26 more…
The Sleuth recently drove the automaker’s new entry-level small utility rig and it’s good, despite a few notable shortcomings. The small-but-roomy wagon’s electric power steering assist (EPAS) feels too amped up, resulting in a numb feel. It reminds The Sleuth of older EPAS systems from other automakers, although those systems that have since been improved or totally fixed. Another issue is the Kicks’ meek 125-horsepower four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission that, like the EPAS, also feels behind the times. The lack of all-wheel-drive was explained by Nissan product planners as being unnecessary for most drivers’ needs. Those comments…
The Spy Guy’s take on BMW’s newest “sport activity vehicle” is that it’s a bolder, better model than the previous generation. Most noticeable is an enlarged version of BMW’s grille that also sits quite upright. The new platform that was originally developed for the automaker’s big 7-series sedan gives the X5 a longer, lower and wider look and very likely more space for occasional third-row-seat passengers. Turbocharged inline six-cylinder and V-8 models, producing 335 and 456 horsepower respectively, will be offered, each with standard all-wheel-drive. A plug-in hybrid option will follow, plus a more potent X5 M model. Pricing is…
Although perplexed at the lack of info forthcoming regarding FCA’s strategy for the Chrysler, Dodge and Fiat brands, The Spy Guy thinks the future looks bright for Jeep and Ram. For Jeep, there will be a redesigned Renegade for the 2019 model year, including new front and rear styling and a refreshed interior. Mechanically, it appears likely that a detuned version of the automaker’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the latest Jeep Wrangler will be part of a new Renegade Trackhawk model (and accompanying eight-speed automatic transmission). Also in the planning stages is a new model that’s even smaller than…
The Sleuth recently experienced a problem that he suspects is more common than you might think. He parked a car outside but did not push the “start” button to turn it off, returning four hours later to realize the engine was still running. Other than wasting fuel, there was no apparent harm or foul, but had The Spymaster parked inside a closed garage, the result could have been considerably worse. According to a recent New York Times story, there have been 28 deaths and 45 injuries due to carbon-monoxide poisoning reported in the United States since 2006, caused by drivers…
Hyundai’s size-small utility wagon is in line to receive the N performance treatment. This will likely mean the installation of a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 275 horsepower, compared to the Kona’s non-turbo base 2.0-liter engine that makes just 147 horses. The Kona N isn’t expected before 2020, one year after the electric Kona. The output for the electric has been pegged at 201 horsepower, with an expected range of close to 300 miles. Hyundai will build an electric version of the Kona as well as a new N performance model (gasoline powered) with about 275 horsepower. (PHOTO: HYUNDAI)
The Sleuth’s sources report that Toyota’s luxury division will launch a new utility vehicle for the 2020 model year. Apparently called the LQ, the midsize model will be based on the California-designed LF-1 Limitless concept that broke cover at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Mich., in January. It was positioned as a four-passenger ultra-high-end vehicle, although the production model will accommodate up to five passengers. The LF-1 was also promoted as being able to accommodate plug-in hybrid, electric and hydrogen powerplants, and the first two are likely to be available for LQ buyers when production begins. The…
Roof-rack systems are handy for moving cargo, canoes, bikes and sports equipment. Loading and unloading is difficult without a ladder, however, as is washing the roofs of tall vans and utility vehicles. The Utility Step hooks to the front door latch of virtually every car and truck made over the last 40-plus years, which literally give you a step up to the roof. The Utility Step is made from aircraft-grade aluminum and, according to the manufacturer, can support up to 300 pounds. When not it use, the Utility Step folds up for storage. Order one for $40 from www.gearizm.com.
Candylab Toys is no friend of plastics, especially when it comes to the company’s model cars that are designed to be played with by kids and adults alike. The company specializes in stylized versions of yesteryear classics from the 1940s to the ’60s. All are made from solid beech wood — with rubber tires — and are covered in brightly colored non-toxic paint. They’re also built to withstand just about any kind of torture that a kid could inflict. Older kids will likely dress up their bookshelves or office desks with these toys. Prices range from $25 to $35. Visit…