© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Top Cars
SUV and crossover debuts may have received a lot of attention at this year’s New York Auto Show, but there were also a good number of important new car debuts. From the new fuel-efficient Honda Clarity models to the high performance Porsche 911 GT3 and the special edition Maserati Ghibli Nerissimo, the new car debuts covered the spectrum. We take a look at the car premiere highlights from the 2017 New York Auto Show.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2018 Acura TLX
Acura debuted the all-new 2018 Acura TLX sport sedan at the New York Auto Show with a more-aggressive design and new technology including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and AcuraWatch standard across the model line. The new design features Acura’s diamond pentagon grille and follows the design language of the Acura Precision Concept which debuted last year.. The updated front-end includes the new grille, new front bumper, revised hood, new front fenders, redesigned Jewel Eye headlights with LED turn signals. TLX is powered by either a 2.4-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V6 – the V6 TLX receives a revised rear fascia with rectangular dual exhaust, rear diffuser and standard 18 inch wheels. The standard TLX is front-wheel drive however the V6 is available with torque vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2018 Acura TLX
The performance oriented TLX A-Spec stands out with an exclusive front fascia, round LED fog lights, aggressive side sills, rear diffuser, large round dual-exhaust outlets, gloss black rear spoiler, 19-inch wheels, sport suspension and retuned electric steering. When equipped with SH-AWD, TLX A-Spec receives stiffer springs and rear stabilizer bar. Inside the A-Spec adds leather seats with more aggressive side bolsters, red instrument highlights, brushed aluminum-look trim, sport steering wheel, wireless charging pad, ventilated front seats and red LED ambient lighting. A-Spec exclusive interior color choices are red or black leather with Alcantara seat and door inserts.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Audi RS 5
New York saw the U.S. debut of the new Audi RS 5 which was first shown at the Geneva Motor Show in March, the first car to display Audi’s new design direction for the high-performance RS models. The most powerful and top performing version of Audi’s A5 coupe, the RS 5 receives an all-new 2.9-liter TFSI biturbo V6 engine that produces 450 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Power is directed through a sport-tuned 8-speed tiptronic transmission and permanent quattro all-wheel drive.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Audi RS 5
Audi designers drew inspiration for the RS 5 from the Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO that raced in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, incorporating elements such as the large air inlets with black honeycomb material. The Singleframe grille is wider and flatter than the A5 and additional air inlets are added next to the headlights. At the back is the rear diffuser which is specific to RS 5, along with large oval exhaust tips and a rear spoiler. Standard wheels are 19-inch with 20-inch available as an option. Inside are RS sport seats with available diamond stitching, flat-bottom sport steering wheel and special RS displays for the Audi virtual cockpit. The RS design package adds red as a contracting interior color and Sonoma Green Metallic exterior paint color is exclusive to RS 5.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Buick Regal Sportback
Buick is expanding the Regal model line with the addition of the Regal Sportback, a sleek new 5-door with an elegant design, sleek profile and the added versatility of a hatchback. With the second-row seat in place, the Regal Sportback offers 31.5 cubic feet of cargo space, more than twice as much as the 2017 Regal, and increases to 60.7 cubic feet when the rear seat is folded. A 60/40 split-folding second-row seat is standard with a 40/20/40 rear seat also available. Power comes from a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that produces 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission for the front-wheel drive version. When all-wheel drive is added, torque increases to 295 lb-ft delivered through an 8-speed automatic transmission. Buick’s new all-wheel-drive system uses two clutches at the rear wheels for torque distribution.
© General Motors
Buick Regal Sportback
Safety innovations include a Buick-first active hood pedestrian safety system, Front Pedestrian Braking and Lane Keep Assist. The standard active hood pedestrian safety system senses the imminent impact of a pedestrian between 16-30 mph and uses a pyrotechnic actuator to lift the back of the hood up about 4 inches to lessen the impact and potentially reduce injury. Buick QuietTuning includes all-new tire insulation to help reduce road noise on front-wheel-drive models and premium five-link rear suspension on AWD models. The 2018 Regal Sportback is scheduled to go on sale in the fourth quarter of 2017.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Dodge Challenger SRT Demon
Dodge stole the show with the introduction of the limited-edition Challenger SRT Demon, powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI Demon V8 engine that produces 840 horsepower and 770 lb-ft or torque, the highest horsepower V8 engine ever offered in a production car. The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is also the fastest production car ever — certified in the quarter-mile by the National Hot Rod Association with an incredibly quick elapsed time of 9.65 seconds with a trap speed of 140 miles per hour. The Demon’s powerplant is based on the same architecture as the 707-horsepower HEMI Hellcat engine, although more than 50 percent of the components have been upgraded, including a high-speed valvetrain, strengthened connecting rods, stronger pistons and an improved lubrication system. This supercharged 6.2-liter V8 also gets extensive modifications such as a larger supercharger, increased boost pressure to 14.5 psi, SRT Power Chiller liquid-to-air intercooler system, two dual-stage fuel pumps, and a larger induction air box.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Dodge Challenger SRT Demon
The widest Challenger ever, the SRT Demon adds factory-installed fender flares that increase the overall width by 3.5 inches — required to cover the lightweight 18×11-inch “Hole-shot” wheels with specifically-designed and Demon-branded 315/40R18 Nitto NT05R drag radial tires front and rear. The SRT Demon also adds a wide Air Grabber hood scoop, the largest functional hood scoop for a production car. Inside, the Challenger SRT Demon focuses on the driver and — in the interest of weight savings — the standard configuration deletes the front passenger seat, rear passenger seat, corresponding seat belts and the trunk carpeting. Buyers have the option of adding the front passenger seat, rear seat and trunk carpeting for $1 each. The front seat(s) feature standard performance cloth with Ballistic II inserts and an embroidered Demon logo, and a Laguna Leather package adds Laguna leather with Alcantara suede inserts.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Honda Clarity Series
Honda introduced two new Clarity models, the 2017 Honda Clarity Electric and the 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid, joining the 2017 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell that launched in December 2016. The 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is scheduled to go on sale later this year and is expected to feature an all-electric range of 42 miles. For longer trips, the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid has a 1.5-liter Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine that will generate electricity and under some conditions will power the car directly with the total driving range expected to be more than 330 miles.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Honda Clarity Series
Completing the Clarity Series of electrified vehicles, the Honda Clarity Electric is an all-electric vehicle powered by a 161-horsepower (120-kilowatt) electric motor producing 221 lb-ft of torque, storing power in a 25.5-kWh battery pack. The Clarity Electric can by fully charged in just over three hours at 240 volts and using DC fast charging can reach an 80 percent charge in just 30 minutes. The driving range on a full charge is expected to be 80 miles. The EPA fuel economy rating for Clarity Electric is expected to be 120 city/102 highway/111 combined MPGe. Both the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid and the Clarity Electric offer three selectable driving modes, Normal, Econ and Sport to choose between optimal economy or improved performance. The Clarity Electric is schedule to launch later this year with a lease program in California and Oregon.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Hyundai Sonata
Hyundai’s midsize sedan is redesigned for the 2018 model year with a bold new front end that features a new “Cascading Grille” that will become a signature look for future Hyundai models. The hood slopes further down to meet the low, wide grille flanked by vertical LED daytime running lights. The front fenders and narrow headlights with optional LED lights taper forward to the grille. At the rear, the license plate has been moved lower and a Sonata logo has been added to the center of the trunk lid with narrow taillights and the overall shape that mimics the front-end design. Sonata Sport and 2.0T trims add a mesh grille, unique front and rear fascias and gloss black window trim.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Hyundai Sonata
The updated Sonata receives a new rear suspension design and revised steering calibration designed to improve ride, handling and steering response. Sonata 2.0T is powered by a 245-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with a new 8-speed automatic transmission and standard 18-inch alloy wheels shod with Michelin tires. Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is now standard for all trim levels. The Sonata Sport 2.4L receives a sunroof, leather-bolstered sport seats, dual exhaust and sport steering wheel with paddle shifters. Hyundai Blue Link now talks to Amazon Echo, allowing you to control your car inside your home, or wherever your Amazon device is located.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Jaguar F-Type
The 2018 Jaguar F-Type debuted at the New York Auto Show with a new look, new powertrain options and new standard technology. For the first time, the F-Type will be offered with a 4-cylinder engine – a 296-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter teamed with the 8-speed Quickshift transmission. Peak torque is produced as low as 1,500 rpm, helping the 4-cylinder F-type reach 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. Top track speed is 155 mph. The F-Type continues to be available with supercharged V6 and V8 engine options, including the 575-horsepower F-Type SVR.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Jaguar F-Type
Design updates for 2018 include new full-LED headlights, a new front bumper and new air intakes. New lightweight slimline seats offer improved ergonomics and comfort but also provide a weight savings of more than 17 pounds. The ReRun App developed with GoPro creates video content with real-time on-board telemetry integration. Standard on all F-Types is the Jaguar InControl Touch Pro infotainment with fast responses, tablet-style pinch-to-zoom and swipe operation, navigation functions such as Share ETA and online services such as real-time traffic and live weather reports. A new F-Type 400 SPORT special edition is offered only for the 2018 model year powered by a 400-horsepower version of the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 with suspension updates and special 20-inch wheels.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Maserati Ghibli Nerissimo
Maserati debuted the special edition 2017 Maserati Ghibli Nerissimo black edition in New York of which only 450 will be produced for the U.S. and Canadian markets. The name Nerissimo is based on the Italian phrase for “extremely black” and the Nerissimo is essentially all black with just a touch of red, including red brake calipers and red interior stitching. The Ghibli Nerissimo will be available in Ghibli, Ghibli S and Ghibli SQ4 variations.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Maserati Ghibli Nerissimo
In addition to the black exterior paint, the Maserati Ghibli Nerissimo features Glossy Black 20-inch Urano wheels, black door handles, black trim and a black grille. Ghibli Nerissimo is well equipped with the Sport Package, Premium Package, Extended Leather interior in black with red stitching, gear shift paddles, Dark Mirror interior trim, Sport Seats and a Sport Steering Wheel. Each Ghibli Nerissimo with include a plaque on the center console with the production number out of 450. The Maserati Ghibli is powered by the Ferrari built twin turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. The Ghibli SQ4 Nerissimo on display in New York had 404 horsepower and was equipped with Maserati Q4 intelligent all-wheel drive, making it capable to accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and reach a top track speed of 176 mph.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet
Following the debut of the E-Class Cabriolet in Geneva last month, Mercedes-Benz premiered the E-Class Cabriolet for the U.S. market in New York. The addition of the Cabriolet completes the redesign of the entire E-Class lineup which now includes sedan, wagon, coupe and convertible. The E-Class Cabriolet utilizes a classic soft-top rather than a heavier, more expensive hardtop. The top is multilayered and insulated to keep the interior quiet, even when driving at high speeds.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet
The new E-Class Cabriolet will be offered with a powerful but efficient 3.0-liter biturbo V6 engine and for the first time the convertible will be available with 4Matic all-wheel drive. The top on the E-Class Cab can be raised or lowered in 20 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph and with the top raised, the cabriolet has a similar silhouette to the E-Class Coupe. The E-Class also features the signature Mercedes-Benz Airscarf, which circulates warm air near the neck when ambient temperatures are low and AIRCAP wind deflector. The E-Class Cabriolet is expected to go on sale before the end of the year.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Nissan 370Z Heritage Edition
The current Nissan Z car is a modern version of the iconic 240Z, originally sold nearly 50 years ago under the Datsun brand. For 2018 the Nissan 370Z Coupe Heritage Edition honors the original Z, offered in two exterior colors, Chicane Yellow and Magnetic black, with yellow interior trim. The Chicane Yellow features black mirrors and gloss black graphics and the Magnetic Black includes gloss silver graphics.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Nissan 370Z Heritage Edition
The 2018 370Z Heritage Edition also features updates that will be standard for all 2018 370Z Coupes including new headlights, new rear combination light treatment, new rear fascia paint scheme, smoke chrome door handles and EXEDY high-performance clutch when equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission. The 2018 Nissan 370Z Coupe is scheduled to go on sale this spring, including the Heritage Edition. The Heritage Edition is available on the base 370Z Coupe, powered by a 332-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine with a choice of either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed automatic transmission with Downshift Rev Matching.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Nissan GT-R Track Edition
Nissan brought the latest new edition of the vaunted GT-R to this year’s New York Auto Show. The limited production 2017 Nissan GT-R Track Edition joins the GT-R Premium and GT-R NISMO, both of which were revised for the 2017 model year. The GT-R Track Edition slots into the GT-R lineup between the Premium and the NISMO, incorporated elements of the GT-R NISMO, but keeping the 565-horsepower 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine rating of the Premium, compared to the 600-horsepower NISMO. Torque is rated at 467 lb-ft. and a titanium exhaust system is standard. The GT-R Track Edition is available only by special order.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Nissan GT-R Track Edition
The GT-R Track Edition includes GT-R NISMO front fenders, 20-inch NISMO forged aluminum-alloy wheels and a special dry carbon-fiber rear spoiler. Inside, the Track Edition interior includes a unique red and black color treatment with high-grip, motorsports-inspired Recaro seats. The GT-R Track Edition uses adhesive bonding, in addition to spot welding, to increase body shell rigidity. The GT-R Track Edition received NISMO suspension tuning with reduced weight, additional roll stiffness and NISMO-spec tires.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Porsche 911 GT3
The latest version of the 911 GT3 was on display in New York after making its world debut in Geneva last month. With more power, more speed and higher precision, Porsche believes they have “created a new ruler of the racetrack,” but this one can be driven on the road to the track as well. The new GT3 is powered by a 4.0-liter engine producing 500 horsepower — practically the same engine used in the 911 GT3 Cup Car.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Porsche 911 GT3
Driving enthusiasts will be pleased to hear that the GT3 can be equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox, as well as Porsche’s quick-shifting PDK transmission. Acceleration to 62 mph (100 km/h) takes a mere 3.4 seconds with the PDK, and top speed is just a tick under 200 mph. The GT3 will certainly get noticed on road or track with its large rear wing and large air intakes up front. Look for the 911 GT3 to be available this summer.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo
The newest addition to Porsche’s sports car lineup, the Panamera Sport Turismo also debuted in Geneva and was on display at the New York Auto Show. To create the Panamera Sport Turismo, Porsche extended the roof of the Panamera 4-door sports car to create a wagon-like profile that increases cargo volume, makes rear-seat access easier and allows three passengers to sit back there. The angle of the adaptive, extendible roof spoiler on the Panamera Sport Turismo changes based on vehicle settings and the driving situation – in Sport or Sport Plus mode the spoiler automatically moves to the performance position above 55 mph.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo
The Panamera Sport Turismo will be offered in four versions for the U.S. market: Panamera 4, Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, Panamera 4S and Panamera Turbo. The same four engine choices found in the standard Panamera will be available on the Sport Turismo, starting with the Panamera 4 Sport Turismo powered by a 330-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. The Panamera 4S Sport Turismo receives a 440-horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 while the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Sport Turismo adds a 136-horsepower electric motor to with the same V6 engine as the 4S. The top-level Panamera Turbo Sport Turismo gets its power from a 550-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine. Pricing for the Sport Turismo will start at $96,200 when it arrives in the U.S. at the end of this year.
