Matt M. Myftiu

Matt M. Myftiu

Matt Myftiu has been a journalist for two decades with a focus on technology, NASCAR and autos.

The good numbers keep on coming for Audi of America.
In November, a month where many automakers were flat or even down, Audi reports their numbers rise 12 percent to a total of 19,195 deliveries. For the year, Audi sales are up 6.7 percent, with just under 200,000 vehicles sold.

One new item that helped in November was the A5 Sportback, a new arrival in the U.S. that totaled 1,130 sales.

The biggest sales increases came on the SUV side, with Q5 sales increasing 31 percent (5,467 sold) and Q7 sales growing 31 percent (3,292 sold).

At the L.A. Auto Show this week, Lexus has unveiled a three-row version of its RX crossover, dubbed the RX L. The RX is an annual top seller among luxury SUVs, and this adds another option to the RX portfolio. Seating capacity in the RX L will be either 6 or 7 passengers, depending on the configuration. Two models will be offered: The 2018 RX 350L and RX 450hL (hybrid) models.

To achieve the third row option, the RX L is 4.3 inches longer in the rear, and the tailgate window uses a steeper angle. Third row can be accessed via a lever that slides and folds the second seat forward. The six-seat configuration features second-row captain’s chairs.

Also, in the 2018 RX L models, full-length side curtain airbags are installed for all three rows, and the Lexus Safety System+ remains standard.


Due to arrive at dealerships by year’s end, the 2018 RX 350L will start at $47,670 (FWD) and $49,070 (AWD).

Those considering their first foray into the world of luxury cars have a cornucopia of impressive options at the entry level -- with notables including the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, BMW 3-series and the Cadillac ATS. But there’s one entry from the Asian market that should also not be overlooked -- the Lexus IS.


I recently spent some time in a 2017 Lexus IS 200t, and I’m back with a full report on how it compares in this heavyweight segment.


LOOKS

One thing I can tell you with certainty: You won’t confuse the look of the Lexus IS with any of its competitors. Lexus’ bold front grille design is one of the most recognizable in the auto industry, and the brand has done a great job distinguish its look from the European models. It’s not trying to blend in, and that’s a good thing.

Is it a beautiful design? That’s up for debate. It won’t be to everyone, that’s for sure, and some people may downright dislike it. But no one will say Lexus is trying to follow the crowd. I’ve always been a fan of originality.

Even as they rose in popularity, SUVs weren’t always something that people thought would make their way to every single automaker -- particularly sports car brands like Jaguar.

But Jaguar couldn’t resist, and it’s even spread from there (Alfa-Romeo, Maserati and Lamborghini now have SUV offerings, and Ferrari is reportedly has one in the pipeline -- who woulda thunk it?).

As much as the sports car purists are made sick by this development (“how dare they tarnish the brand” or something like that is often muttered), there’s no denying the SUV and its practicality are here to stay -- even in the upper echelons of the automotive world.

Having debuted for the 2017 model year (and now already updated for 2018 edition with more engine options and other additional features), the F-Pace made its mark in the luxury SUV class instantly. As the brand continues to grow its offerings in this segment (the compact E-Pace and electric I-Pace are just around the corner), the F-Pace was their opening shot.

I spent some time in an F-Pace 35t R Sport, and here’s my take on how it fits in the scheme of luxury SUVs.

Volkswagen has announced that it will offer the R-Line package on the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan. The new trim package augments the all-new SUV’s sportiness with interior and exterior design elements that give it an even more dynamic appearance. The Tiguan R-Line package will be introduced at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The R-Line package enhances the robust list of equipment in the Tiguan SEL and SEL Premium trims with performance-inspired treatments. The sporty exterior styling details include 19-inch “Trenton” aluminum-alloy wheels for SEL trims and 20-inch “Braselton” aluminum-alloy wheels on SEL Premium trims. Also included are R-Line badging; unique front and rear bumpers that incorporate stylish air intakes at the front and a diffusor in glossy black paint at the rear; and body color wheelarch extensions and side skirts.

No ifs, ands or buts about it: When Hyundai came up with the new Ioniq -- which comes in hybrid, plug-in hybrid and EV-only varieties -- it had one thing on its mind: Siphoning buyers away from the Toyota Prius.

That’s no easy task, with the Prius having carried the banner for hybrids for two decades now, but it’s a task Hyundai is taking seriously.

Of the three versions of the Ioniq, I tested the one that is most accessible and likely to succeed, the hybrid, and I’m back with a full report.


LOOKS

If we’re talking hybrids and the topic is looks, there’s bound to be some shade thrown in the process. That’s because these vehicles often have what I can only call “unique” looks, that won’t always sit well with everyone. Thankfully, the design of the Ioniq hybrid is somewhat tame compared to the goofier/bolder design of the Prius, which may be a blessing for Hyundai if people cross-shop. Even those who love driving a Prius often mention the looks as something that could be improved, and I would say the Ioniq wins the beauty contest, both inside and out, over the Prius.

Most people who grew up in the 70s and the 80s have fond memories of the station wagon as a family vehicle of choice. Before minivans and then SUVs/crossovers took over, these vehicles were the places where long trips were enjoyed and families got their quality time in.


Today, with rare exception, the wagon is mostly gone in the U.S. market. Some of the higher-end automakers offer some sort of wagon version, but in the realm of affordable vehicles only the Subaru Outback jumps out as a top seller, and there have been few strong competitors for the Outback in recent years.

Enter Volkswagen, who for the 2017 model year introduced the VW Golf Alltrack, a direct attempt to take on the Outback’s market dominance in the wagon world.

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from the Alltrack, but I can tell you that I was surprised to find it was still pretty fun to drive. This is in part because it’s a Golf, and the Golf is one of the most well-loved brands in the auto industry due to their commitment to being a car for drivers. Read on for a full report.

Nissan Titan (Price as tested: $39,505)
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While truck sales are dominated by the trio of Ford, Chevy and Ram, we shouldn’t forget that there are other capable options out there worth considering. And I’m not talking about getting a truck for a Sunday drive: I’m talking about the Nissan Titan, which comes ready to do some work, whether it be hauling or towing, as a pickup truck should do.

With a starting price under $30K, the Titan is a strong option -- especially if you opt for the 5.6-liter V8 engine and its 390 horsepower/394 lb.-ft. of torque.

I used a Titan to haul some large loads of metal and appliances to the scrap yard, and it held up well throughout. It gets the job done, which is the point of a truck like this. Towing capacity is over 9,000 pounds, and payload capacity is just over 1,900 pounds.

Official mpg numbers on the Titan are 15 city/21 highway and 18 combined.

Bottom line: I wouldn’t want this big machine as my daily driver, as it’s too slow and lumbering for that, but if I was in the hauling and towing business on a daily basis, i would have to give it serious consideration.

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2017 Infiniti QX60 (Price as tested: $60,045)
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When people have money to spend, they’re often going to spend in on cars. That’s why it’s so important for automakers to get their big luxury vehicles right, as brand loyalty is a key factor so you don’t want to screw that up from the start.

I’ve driven multiple versions of this next vehicle, the Infiniti QX60 (previously known as the JX35 upon its initial launch), and it only gets better with time. It remains one of my favorite luxury SUVs, inside and out.

Recent upgrades to the QX60 include boosted power from the engine, as well as a larger infotainment screen up front. Outside design is sharp, recognizable and smooth looking -- typically the case with Infiniti. Inside layout is created for comfort for driver and passengers, with quality leather plus wood grain touches to enhance look.

Its 3.5-liter V6 (295 horsepower, 270 lb.-ft. of torque) isn’t best in class but still doesn’t disappoint. The tech setup is a bit too button-laden; could be simplified. But that’s a minor quibble since the vehicle’s drive quality is smooth to the point I’d call it silky. Fuel mileage numbers are 19 city/26 highway/22 combined, and safety ratings are top-notch.

Bottom line: Unless you absolutely need the most powerful engine in class, the QX60 is one of your most comfortable, safest and family-friendliest options in the luxury SUV category.

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AutoTechReviews.com can be found on Twitter @AutoTechReview, or stay updated at the AutoTechReviews Facebook page.

Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu.

Monday, 20 November 2017 04:13

BMW M240i kicks you in the pants

If you can’t have fun in this hot rod, you must be an empty shell of a human being or just hate the idea of driving.

Featuring 365 horsepower from a 3.0-liter, turbo 6-cylinder engine, the M240i features stunning speed and agility and was one of the strongest vehicles I tested this year.

It’s a two-seater by default (back seat isn’t really capable of holding humans of any significant size, and even the front seats are a bit cramped). But it’s all worth it due to the performance.
This machine isn’t just fast; it launches you forward, going 0-to-60 in under 5 seconds.
It’s a thrill to drive, even if you don’t have a particular destination (perhaps even moreso).
It doesn’t just hug the turns, it gives them the “I haven’t seen you since last Christmas so we’re going to make this count” embrace.

Bottom line: Enthusiasts who want to enjoy every second they’re driving should take a BMW M240i for a test drive when shopping for their next ride,, as the M series vehicles from BMW are perennial contenders for their attention.

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AutoTechReviews.com can be found on Twitter @AutoTechReview, or stay updated at the AutoTechReviews Facebook page.

Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu. 

Sunday was an emotional day in the NASCAR world -- there’s no way around that.

For a sport that’s all about horsepower and strength, whose heroes have names like the Intimidator, there’s a lot of heart underneath.

Who among us -- after watching and hearing about all the personal trials and tribulations that Martin Truex Jr., Sherry Pollex, and the entire 78 team for Furniture Row Racing, have been through in the past few years -- wasn’t moved by that championship win? Who among us watching that epic battle at the end didn’t get a little misty-eyed to see the pure joy in their celebration -- a celebration by a driver who didn’t know if he’d even have a career after a controversial end to his time at Michael Waltrip Racing (itchy arm syndrome race) and his girlfriend who has been courageously battling cancer?

“It’s just overwhelming. To think about all the rough days and bad days, the days that couldn’t run 20th, to be here, I never thought this day would come and to be here is so unbelievable,” Truex said after his win.

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