Spokane auto show, february 13, 2015

Advertising Supplement to The Spokesman Review an S R Media Company • spokesman.com Friday, February 13, 2015 1

2 Friday, February 13, 2015 Advertising Supplement to The Spokesman Review an S R Media Company • spokesman.com

Now in full recovery following the Great Recession, the auto industry offers buyers the broadest and best range of new products in its history. From tiny electric cars that point the way to one possible energy future to 700-horsepower muscle cars; from powerful and newly efficient trucks to crossovers large and small, luxurious and economical; from family sedans to 200-mph sports cars; there truly is something for everyone at the 2015 International Auto Show, presented by the Spokane New Car Dealers Association. The show, which fills three large buildings at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, opens today, Friday, Feb. 13, and continues through Sunday, Feb. 15. The purchase of a show pass allows admittance throughout the weekend.

Prepare to be overwhelmed Show-goers should be prepared to be over-whelmed, said Rick Rielly, vice-president and

general manager of Foothills Lincoln Mazda and president of the New Car Dealers Association. “With technology changing faster than people can keep up with, they’ll see all kinds of new things, both inside and outside (the cars),” he said. Computer-designed unibodies are stronger and more rigid, boosting safety and allowing precise suspension tuning. The new 4G LTE wireless networks turn cars into Internet “hot spots.” Some cars can read your texts to you and

others have safety systems that can distinguish between vehicles and pedestrians and apply the brakes to minimize the impact of a collision. New lighting systems illuminate the road ahead as if it were daylight. New audio systems rival the best home systems. Then, there’s the elephant in the room. “With fuel prices so low, efficiency is not as great of a concern at the moment, but everybody knows that will change,” said Rielly. Accordingly, manufacturers are reevaluating all their processes in terms of economy. “Ford’s new F-150 uses aluminum body panels to reduce weight, which makes a huge difference,” he said. Other strategies look deeply into a car’s inner work-ings, seeking ways to reduce weight, minimize friction and maximize the effi-ciency of engines and transmissions.

Great entertainment; great buys Besides being the weekend’s best entertainment value, the International Auto Show is also the best time to buy a new car. “All the dealers will there, ready to make their best deals of the year,” Rielly said. “We look at this as the beginning of our selling season. “Financing a purchase is easier now than it has been in some time and interest rates are still very low.” New 36- and 48-month, user-centric lease programs also play a big role in new-car sales, he noted: “About half of our dealership’s sales are leases.” In the wake of the recession, the nation’s dealers are looking to replenish their used-car inventories. With used cars in demand, trade-ins are valued now more than ever. All told, there’s never been a better time to buy a new car. With manufactur-ers battling for market share in the new economy, buyers get more car than ever for their dollar. “The value story is probably better than ever,” said Rielly.

Rick RiellyVice-president/General Manager, Foothills Lincoln MazdaPresident, Spokane New Car Dealers Association

2015 International Auto Show offers best and broadest range of products ever at the year’s best prices

Page 2:Mazda6Volkeswagen Golf

Page 3:Lincoln MKCScion FR-S

Page 4:Subaru OutbackFiat 500L

Page 5:Ford EdgeAcura TLX

Page 6:GMC Sierra 1500Buick EncoreMitsubishi Outlander

Page12:Honda FitAudi Q3Hyundai SonataChrysler 200Jeep Grand Cherokee

Page 14:Toyota CamryDodge ChargerRam 1500 Nissan Murano

Page 15:Chevrolet TraxAlfa Romeo 4CInfinity Q70L

Today’s cars are safer, more efficient and more comfortable than ever; see all the new models under one roof and make your best deal at the Auto Show!

Directory of Featured Autos

The 2015 Mazda6 stands out among midsize family sedans for its distinctive sheet metal, nimble ride and outstanding efficiency. Not only is the 6 one of the most enjoyable drives in the midsize segment, but its 30 mpg combined efficiency rating tops all but the hybrids. The Grand Touring trim uses Mazda’s i-Eloop technology to score 32 mpg combined. The 184-hp 2.5-liter four that powers the FWD sedan can be mated with a six-speed manual gearbox (Sport and Touring trims only) or six-speed automatic, with shift paddles. This year, all Mazda 6 sedans get one-touch up/down power windows all around. Keyless entry and igni-tion is now standard on the Touring trim.

The CX-5 is one of the most entertaining, safe and economical entries in the compact crossover category. The CX-5 strikes an ideal balance between sport and comfort, with precise steering and nimble handling complementing a smooth ride, quiet cabin and comfortable, five-passenger seating. Two engines are avail-able; the base 155-hp 2.0-liter four is joined in the lineup by the same 184-hp 2.5-liter that powers the Mazda6. Standard gear includes full power accessories, air-conditioning, cruise, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio jack and a USB/iPod interface.

The Mazda6 is not only one of the most enjoyable drives in the midsize segment; its 30 mpg combined efficiency rating tops all but the hybrids.

The Mazda6 sedan and CX-5 crossover offer economy, comfort and driving pleasure.Mazda

It may not look like it, but Volkswagen’s compact Golf hatch-back is completely made over for 2015. Headlights and taillights are freshened and body-side creases are crisper. Interior updates are similarly modest, though a 5.8-inch touchscreen is now standard on all trims. Underlying everything is a rigid new unibody and a more powerful (170 hp) and efficient turbocharged four that replaces last year’s base five-cylinder engine. Pricing on TDI turbo-diesel trims drops about $3,000 and a limited-availability, $18,000 Launch Edition includes the new infotainment system, heated mirrors, A/C, hill-hold assist and Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System (APCBS) is standard on all Golf models. The all-electric e-Golf debuts. Jetta receives front and rear styling updates and structural enhancements that boost safety. Interior materials are improved and a new, 150-hp turbo-diesel engine debuts. A pair of turbocharged four-cylinder gas engines make 170 hp and 210 hp, respectively. The Jetta Hybrid returns.

Headlights and taillights are freshened and body-side creases are crisper. Interior updates are similarly mod-est, though a 5.8-inch touchscreen is now standard on all trims. Turbo-diesel prices drop $3,000.

Rigid new unibody for Golf ... turbocharged four replaces last year’s base engine. Volkswagen


*All offers on approved credit plus tax, title, license & negotiable $150 doc. fee. Price after all Lincoln rebatesand discounts. Subject to prior sale. EPA estimated MPG, actual mileage will vary. Expires 2/15/15

www.foothillslincoln.net (509) 324-8200 1-800-669-8801

202 E North Foothills Dr. Spokane, WA 99207

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9am-7pm Sunday: 11am- 5pm

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• Navigation System • Moonroof • 20" Chromes

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Ford’s faith in Lincoln bears promising fruit this year. The 2015 MKC com-pact luxury crossover weaves the proven platform of the Ford Escape into a luxury vehicle worthy of the venerable Lincoln imprint. Its Euro-inflected lines and crisp-yet-comfortable handling will play well in Ford’s global markets. Its cabin is modern yet warm and the MKC receives a full array of luxury-class goods — 18-inch wheels, xenon headlights, LED taillights, dual-zone climate control, back-up camera and the MyTouch touchscreen interface, with voice controls and newly restored haptic responses. Engine choices include a 240-hp 2.0-liter four

and a turbocharged, 285-hp 2.3-liter four. The full-size Navigator SUV receives a well-executed facelift, a freshened cabin and a thrifty new turbocharged V-6. The Navigator wears Lincoln’s new “split-wing” grille and cabin updates include the latest version of the MyLincoln Touch interface. The new 3.5-liter turbocharged six makes 380 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, allowing a properly prepared Navigator to tow up to 9,000 pounds. Rear-wheel-drive is standard, with AWD available. All the expect-ed luxury-class accoutrement are aboard.

Its Euro-inflected lines and crisp-yet-comfortable handling will play well in Ford’s global markets. Its cabin is modern yet warm and the MKC receives a full array of luxury-class goods.

New compact luxury MKC crossover proves worthy of Lincoln nameplate.Lincoln

When it debuted in 2010, the Scion FR-S successfully — and impressively — recreated the classic sports car in modern form. Its athletic, rear-drive chassis and impeccably tuned suspension served as a stable, responsive and forgiving-when-necessary platform within which its punchy 200-hp four could stretch out. This year, suspension tweaks reduce body roll and enhance the platform’s communica-tive properties. Buyers can choose a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and downshift rev-matching. Either way, a standard limited-slip differential allocates power to the wheel with the most traction to enhancing handling. tC coupe buyers who opt for the automatic transmission now get steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

When it debuted in 2010, the Scion FR-S successfully — and impressively — recreated the classic sports car in modern form.

Suspension tweaks improve FR-S, reduce body roll and enhance driver feedback.

Scion

http://www.foothillslincoln.net


For 2015, Subaru’s famed Outback wagon improves in ways that will enhance its popularity without compromising its capabilities. The cabin is roomier — with big gains for rear-seat passengers — and more richly furnished; onboard tech-nology takes a step forward; and fuel economy improves. Engine choices don’t change — base power is by a 175-hp horizontally opposed (“boxer”) four-cylinder engine; the optional boxer six makes 256 hp — but a new CVT is now standard, boosting fuel economy. AWD is standard and ground clearance stands at 8.7 inches, higher than most crossovers. The Legacy sedan receives many of the Outback’s updates, including a room-ier, more attractive cabin finished in higher-quality materials, better cabin elec-tronics and improved fuel efficiency. It shares the Outback’s engines and, like its

wagon cousin, can now be had only with a CVT. The 2015 WRX sport sedan receives new exterior and interior styling, a new base engine and a stiffer body structure with a retuned suspension. Its cabin is a bit roomier and a 6.2-inch touchscreen interface is now standard, with a 7-inch screen available. The new powerplant is a 268-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer four that makes considerably more midrange power, more efficiently, than the engine it replaces. The standard AWD system adds torque-vectoring functional-ity, improving traction and handling. Two transmissions are available, a six-speed manual and a CVT with paddle shifters. The 305-hp WRX STI receives stiffer suspension tuning, quicker and more communicative steering and a driver-adjustable center differential.

The Outback’s cabin is roomier — with big gains for rear-seat passengers — and more richly furnished; onboard technology takes a step forward; and fuel economy improves.

Outback and WRX are fully redesigned ... Legacy gets significant upgrades. Subaru

If you’ve admired the cute-as-a-button Fiat 500 but couldn’t handle its minus-cule dimensions, there’s a new Fiat for you. The 500L adds two doors, two feet in length and a whole new take on the Fiat gestalt. The compact wagon offers an upright, crossover-like driving position and rear-seat accommodations for two adults or three children. A 160-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides the motivation. Standard gear includes keyless entry; power windows and locks; air-conditioning; cruise control; a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with audio controls; a six-speaker CD stereo with a 5-inch touchscreen display, USB/iPod integration, an auxiliary input and voice control for audio functions; Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity; and 60/40 split-folding rear seats that recline and adjust fore and aft.

The 500L offers an upright, crossover-like driving position and rear-seat accommodations for two adults or three children.

Compact, four-door 500L wagon brings new utility to Fiat lineup.

Fiat


The Edge crossover receives its first full makeover, growing longer, taller and roomier. Riding on a new platform, with a redesigned suspen-sion, the Edge is smoother and quieter, and all passengers enjoy increased legroom and headroom. Every Edge gets a rearview camera, while other standard and optional features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control with forward col-lision warning and automatic braking and inflatable rear safety belts. Base power is a 245-hp turbocharged four. Available sixes include a a 285-hp 3.5-liter and a new turbocharged 2.7-liter making more than 300-hp in a new Sport trim. A four-cylinder, AWD Edge can tow up to 3,500 pounds. The quest for efficiency manifests itself at Ford in the form of the 2015 F-150. The light-duty pickup makes extensive use of lightweight materials to boost efficiency without curbing its capability. Engine choices include a new, turbocharged 325-hp V-6. Base power is by a 283-hp six; up-level choices include a 365-hp turbocharged six and a 385-hp, 5.0-liter eight. Maximum towing capacity is 12,200 lbs. Assorted onboard video cameras include a trailer hitch-assist that makes easy work of lining up the hitch ball. A new 8-inch “productivity” screen joins the gauge cluster and new safety features include lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise. For 2015, the large, three-row Expedition SUV receives new front and rear styling and a more efficient powerplant. Front and rear styling is updated and the updated suspension can be had with three-mode adjust-able damping. A new turbocharged V-6 makes 365 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, or more than the eight it replaces, while retaining Expedition’s 9,200-lb. tow capacity. The Focus sedan and hatchback are thoroughly made over, with a restyled hood, grille and trunk lid. Cabin materials are improved and the dash layout has a fresh look. The suspension is re-calibrated for increased comfort and a rearview camera is newly standard. A new turbocharged 181-hp three-cylinder EcoBoost engine joins the lineup. The Focus Electric provides about 75 miles of pure electric range that can be recharged in about four hours from a 240-volt power source.

Mustang celebrates its 50th anniversary with a new engine. The 2.3-liter turbo-4 makes 310 hp and up to 320 lb-ft of torque and earns up to 26 mpg combined. Mustang also finally ditches its solid rear axle for a new indepen-dent setup that improves ride and handling. More aggressively designed, the ’15 Mustang is 1.5 inches lower than last year and rides on a 3-inch wider rear track. Cabin materials are improved and a new, leather-wrapped steering wheel now telescopes. Engine choices range from a 300-hp six to the 435-hp GT and every engine can be mated with a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

Powered by a 197-hp four-cylinder engine, the ST runs a six-speed manual transmission, performance-tuned suspension, 17-inch wheels and upgraded brakes.

Ford Edge and Fusion are fully redesigned … aluminum-bodied F-150 debuts … new powerplants, more freshen Expedition and Mustang

Ford

Fresh this year from Acura, the 2015 TLX will contend in the midsize entry-luxury segment. Quiet, roomy and drip-ping with tech, the TLX gets standard all-wheel steering, LED headlights and brake lights, sunroof, heated side mir-rors, keyless ignition and entry and dual-zone automatic climate control. Power is by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter six (Acura’s SH-AWC AWD system is available on the six). A pair of new transmissions — an eight-speed for the four and a nine-speed for the six — are calibrated to balance power with efficiency. Balance is key; the TLX stitches together the elements of the near-luxury sedan in a sturdy, fun-to-drive package.

The TLX gets standard all-wheel steering, LED headlights and brake lights, heated mirrors, key-less ignition and entry and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Midsize entry-luxury contender drips tech ... SH-AWC available

Acura


A company once known for land yachts now does a brisk business in small. Nearly a foot shorter than the Honda CR-V, the 2015 Encore crossover delivers Buick comfort in a personal-size package. Power is by a tur-bocharged, 138-hp four mated to a six-speed automatic. All models can be had in FWD or AWD and standard gear includes a rear-view camera, tilt/telescoping steering, cruise control, heated mirrors, air-conditioning and a six-way power driver seat. A fold-flat front passenger seat allows stowage of 6-foot objects and split folding rear seats boost cargo capacity. All models get the latest edition of OnStar, which includes 4G LTE connectivity and a WiFi hotspot. Buick’s IntelliLink electronics interface features a 7-inch touchscreen and smartphone app integration. Buick still does big, too. Its 7-passenger, three-row Enclave will handle a family and its goods — and tow up to 4,500 pounds. A 288-hp V-6 powers the Enclave, a six-speed automatic and FWD are standard, with AWD optional. Standard are automatic xenon headlights, rear privacy glass, a power liftgate, heated mirrors, rear parking sensors, remote ignition, cruise control, tri-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver seat, a two-way power pas-senger seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

A pair of crossovers — the subcompact Encore and three-row Enclave — showcase Buick’s broad-ranging portfolio.

Buick

For 2015, GMC’s Sierra light-duty pickup adds to its powertrain roster a new smooth-shifting and efficient new eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard on trims powered by the EcoTec3 6.2L V-8 (420 hp/460 lb-ft), the new gearbox helps the Sierra retain its 12,000-pound maximum trailering rating under the newly adapted SAE J2807 Recommended Practices. All ’15 Sierras also get the latest iteration of OnStar, which includes 4G LTE WiFi and hot-spot capability, and new power-folding trailer-towing mirrors. The Denali trim adds magnetic ride control and a spray-in bedliner The midsize Canyon pickup is back and better than ever, with a pair of new

engines and a significantly updated cabin. Four-cylinder trims are powered by a 200-hp engine and can tow up to 3,500 pounds. An available 3.6-liter V-6 makes 305 hp and is tow-rated to 7,000 pounds. Inside, improved materials and the lat-est version of OnStar headline the updates. A rearview camera is standard and available safety options include forward-collision and lane-departure warning systems. The full-size Yukon SUV is better in nearly every way this year. Highlights include more productive and efficient powertrains, longer standard features lists and more options. Sheet metal is updated and the third-row seat now folds flat.

Standard on trims powered by the EcoTec3 6.2L V-8, the new gearbox helps the Sierra retain its 12,000-pound maximum trailering rating under the SAE J2807 Recommended Practices.

Full-size Yukon SUV and midsize Canyon pickup are all-new ... Sierra 1500 gets new eight-speed transmission.

GMC

Nearly a foot shorter than most compact crossovers, the 2015 Encore delivers up Buick comfort and quality in a personal-size package.

For 2015, the compact Outlander Sport adds LED running lights and an updated continuously variable transmission (CVT) that boosts fuel economy numbers and improves off-the-line response. The cabin is quieter and dressier this year, thanks to new sound-deadening insulation measures and the addition of high-gloss piano black audio trim with silver accents. The power steering system is improved and offers greater feel and precision. Power comes by way of a 148-hp four that, mated with the revised CVT, delivers 28 mpg combined in FWD trims and 27 mpg combined with AWD. The midsize Outlander gets the FUSE Hands-Free Link system (audio and phone connectivity) as standard gear. Sound insulation is improved for reduced noise, vibration and harshness and suspension tuning and CVT calibration also contribute to a more serene driving experience. Look for modest updates to the front fascia, including a new upper grille design and bumper and wheel-arch trim.

The Outlander Sport cabin is quieter and dressier this year, thanks to new insulation mea-sures and the addition of high-gloss piano black audio trim with silver accents.

The compact Outlander Sport and midsize Outlander are quieter and better equipped.

Mitsubishi







Honda gives its little Fit a full makeover this year, with updated styling and a roomier cabin that features improved materials. A new, fuel-sipping CVT transmission is offered alongside the base six-speed manual. The Fit’s 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine receives numerous revisions, including direct injection, for enhanced power and efficien-cy. Horsepower (130) and torque (114 lb-ft) are both up and combined mpg ranges from 32-36, depending on the model. Fit’s wheelbase grows and rear-suspension revisions allow for enough rear-seat leg-room to accommodate a pair of six-footers. Honda’s “Magic Seats” can be folded to create a low and flat cargo floor, or flipped up to allow storage of tall items behind the front seats. New tech features include a larger touchscreen, smartphone app integration and keyless ignition. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that powers the compact CR-V crossover is more powerful and more efficient this year, thanks to the addition of direct injection. In tandem with a CVT, the new engine is capable in 2WD trims of a combined 29 mpg on the EPA cycle, a 3-mpg improvement. Exterior styling is freshened and new features come aboard, including a 7-inch touchscreen that’s integrated on upper trims with the LaneWatch blind-spot monitoring system. A ver-satile new center console doubles as a softly padded armrest.

An experienced builder of elegant and sporty small cars, Audi is ide-ally positioned for battle in the new luxury compact crossover segment. Its stylish little Q3 crossover is finished outside and in with Audi’s usual attention to detail. Standard features include a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery and heated, power-adjustable front seats. The Q3 is powered by a punchy-but-thrifty 200-hp turbocharged four. Available in front- and all-wheel-drive configurations, the Q3 is sure-footed in the snow and a lively handful to drive. Audi’s subcompact A3 changes stripes this year as a traditional four-door sedan supplants the previous hatchback body style. At Audi, smaller does not equal lesser; the A3 cabin rivals its larger siblings in style, qual-ity, comfort and equipment — both standard and optional. Taut and engaging handling meets a pair of punchy and efficient turbocharged fours (170/220 hp), as well as an ultra-economical diesel. There will also be an A3 convertible and high-performance S3 sedan.

Audi’s stylish Q3 crossover is finished with the company’s usual attention to detail.

Two new Audis bundle European style and performanceAudi

In its previous generation, Hyundai’s midsize Sonata caught the attention of the American public in a big way. Now, a redesigned, 2015 Sonata improves on its predecessor in every important aspect. Styling is a bit more subdued this time around and the cabin grows larger and more sophisticated. Chassis revisions improve handling and ride quality and a new Eco trim features a thrifty, 177-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a seven-speed automated manual transmission. Other choices include a 185-hp 2.4-liter four and a turbocharged 2.0-liter that makes 245 hp, both mated with a six-speed automatic. Options now include adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams, a hands-free trunk opener and such safety features as blind-spot detection and forward-collision alert systems A new platform underlying the full-size, rear-drive Genesis boosts its wheelbase 3 inches, which translates into greater legroom for rear-seat passengers. All-wheel-drive is now available on six-cylinder trims. Cabin updates include a curvaceous new dash, larger navigation display and revised center stack and center console. Last year’s 311-hp V-6 and 420-hp V-8 engines remain and are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. An optional driver-adjustable Sport mode alters transmission, steering and suspension settings.

Fit’s wheelbase grows this year and rear-suspension revisions allow for enough rear-seat legroom to accommodate a pair of six-footers.

Fit gets updated styling, roomier cabin and an efficient new powertrain.

Hyundai’s midsize Sonata grows roomier and more sophisticated.

Sonata’s styling is more subdued and the cabin grows larger and more sophisticated. Chassis revisions improve handling and ride quality and a new Eco trim features a thrifty, 177-hp four-cylinder engine.

Honda

Hyundai

Chrysler returns to the midsize fray in a serious way this year, with the release of the all-new 2015 200. The 200’s sweeping silhouette and all-new interior are the most obvious of a long list of upgrades and updates that start with a rigid new platform and include an AWD option on six-cylinder models. The new chassis improves ride qual-ity and reduces interior noise, and a host of new safety gear comes aboard, as either standard gear or optional. A new, user-friendly cabin-electronics interface debuts. Base power is by a 184-horsepower four, with a 295-hp six available. Both engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, with optional paddle shifters on the V-6. The six also includes a Sport mode that sharpens engine and transmission responses and boosts steering effort. The full-size Chrysler 300 enters its second decade with a sheet-metal refresh and updated cabin, improved electronics and new safety features. Up front, honeycomb mesh replaces last year’s slatted grille. The instrument panel and console are more refined in appearance and a new rotary-style transmission shifter debuts. V-8 models get a new eight-speed automatic transmission and a new power steering system. New tech features include adaptive cruise control and a forward collision warning system. Engine choices remain untouched.

The 200’s sweeping silhouette and all-new interior are the most obvious of a long list of upgrades and updates.

For 2015, Chrysler shines a spotlight on the all-new midsize 200 ... 300 sedan is refreshed

Chrysler

Refinements are the name of the game at Jeep. Grand Cherokee Summit mod-els get new premium standard features, including Active Noise Cancellation. A choice of three 4x4 systems, an available air suspension and Jeep’s Selec-Terrain traction management system continue the premium crossover’s off-road mastery. Meanwhile, the available 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6, in tandem with an eight-speed transmission, delivers 30 highway mpg, a driving range of more than 730 miles and best-in-class 7,400-lb towing capacity. The 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 that powers the Grand Cherokee SRT gets a horsepow-er bump to 475 and torque improves to 470 lb.-ft. Towing capacity jumps from 5,000 to 7,200 lbs. Active Noise Canceling technology boosts cabin refinement and a new Red Vapor special edition ads unique content.

Active noise cancellation hushes cabins ... Grand Cherokee SRT gets power bump.

Jeep



Nissan’s midsize, five-passenger Murano enters its third generation with new styling, a roomier cabin and smoother ride. Outside, wedges meet curves in a body style that won’t get lost in the parking lot. Look for the “floating” roof, which appears to be supported not by pillars but by glass. Clean and contemporary in design, the large cabin features high-end materials. Nissan’s excellent NASA-inspired “Zero Gravity” seats make their Murano debut, while, ride-wise, Nissan dials back the “sport” for a gentler experience. Never fear; Murano’s well-tuned suspension still controls body roll. A 3.5-liter V-6 makes 260 hp, a CVT is standard. Front- and AWD trims are available. Standard features include 18-inch alloys, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, Bluetooth phone and audio, touchscreen controls, rearview camera, smartphone app integration and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and an auxiliary input jack.

Outside, wedges meet curves in a body style that won’t get lost in the parking lot. Look for the “floating” roof, which appears to be supported not by pillars but by glass.

Premier midsize crossover hits third generation running.Nissan

It’s not an easy thing to stand out in a category where the rules are as fixed as they are in the pickup segment. Still, the Ram 1500 light-duty pickup does its utmost to stand aside from the pack. The only light-duty full-size truck to offer a diesel engine option, the Ram 1500 boasts best-in-class fuel economy. It’s also the only pickup to employ a coil-spring rear suspension, which produces a smooth, controlled ride, even with an empty bed. For 2015, an off-road trim called the Ram 1500 Rebel adds an air suspension for additional ground clear-ance; factory lift, skid plates and tow hooks; and a unique black-out grille and LED fog lamps.

The 2015 Ram 1500 Rebel adds an air suspension for additional ground clearance; factory lift, skid plates and tow hooks; and a unique black-out grille and LED fog lamps.

Ram 1500 unique in light-duty pickup class

Ram

In a surprise move, Toyota treats the midsize Camry to an extensive mid-cycle refresh. Up front, Camry gets Toyota’s angular new corporate grille and dramatic character lines animate the sedan’s tidy proportions. Inside, materials quality is upgraded and soft-touch surfaces cover the dash and door panels. Controls are larger and easier to use. A strengthened body structure allows more precise suspension tuning, improving handling and ride quality. Engine choices include a 178-hp four and a 3.5-liter six that makes 268 hp. A new SLE trim combines the sportiness of the SE trim with the comfort and convenience of the luxurious XLE.

The Sienna minivan’s body structure is stronger this year and its suspension is retuned for a more comfortable ride and more confident handling. Interior upgrades include a redesigned dash and increased use of soft-touch materials. On the outside, there’s an updated grille and new taillights. The only minivan with optional AWD, the Sienna is powered by a 3.5-liter six that makes 266 hp. Yaris gets updated styling and improved cabin materials. A touchscreen info-tainment system interface is newly standard and all trims now qualify for naviga-tion.

Up front, Camry gets Toyota’s angular new corporate grille, while dramatic character lines animate the sedan’s tidy proportions.

Restyled Camry gets stronger body structure, revised suspension and more luxurious cabin.

Toyota

Dodge rolls into 2015 in spectacular fashion. Its signa-ture muscle cars — the two-door Challenger and four-door Charger — are heavily updated. There are new engines, new trim levels and a new quick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Topping each branch of the family tree is the bodacious new 707-hp SRT Hellcat model. Nearly every one of the Charger’s body panels is re-sculpt-ed, with a big nod to the ‘69 Charger’s Coke-bottle design and scalloped body sides. New R/T Road & Track, R/T Scat Pack, SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat models join the lineup. Engines include a 305-hp 3.6-liter V-6 and three V-8s — a 370-hp 5.7-liter; a 485-hp 6.4-liter; and the supercharged, 707-hp 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat. The new eight-speed automatic transmission is standard. There are also new electronic driver aids and safety features, including a frontal collision warning and mitigation system. Subtle sheet-metal updates revive Challenger design cues from 1971 and make room in the engine bay for an enhanced cooling system, the new gearbox and the supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V-8. New safety and technology features include forward collision warning, adaptive cruise, blind-spot moni-toring and rear cross-traffic detection. Steering, throttle and transmission settings are customizable and Chrysler’s 8.4-inch touchscreen navigation and multimedia interface appears. New trims include the 392 Hemi Scat Pack Shaker (375 hp); R/T Scat Pak (485 hp) and the Hellcat. The base engine is a 305-hp V-6. The eights can be paired with a six-speed manual or new TorqueFlite eight-speed gearbox.

Nearly every one of the Charger’s body panels is re-sculpted, with a big nod to the ‘69 Charger’s Coke-bottle design and scalloped body sides.

Dodge’s signature muscle cars are heavily updated ... new 707-hp Hellcat tops Charger and Challenger lineups

Dodge


A flood of new Infinitis are slated for release in the next several months. For now, though, the midsize Q70 sedan adds a new long-wheelbase version. With a wheelbase that’s 5.9 inches longer than the regular car, the Q70L adds 5.6 inches of rear-seat legroom and gets a more luxurious ride. Engine choices include a 330-hp 3.7-liter V-6 and a 420-hp 5.7-liter V-8. A hybrid trim is also available. All Q70s come with a seven-speed automatic transmission with man-ual shift control. Rear-drive is standard, with available AWD. Available tech-nologies include Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection, Backup Collision Intervention and Forward Emergency Braking. Following a year-long hiatus, the Q37 sedan returns as the Q40. It retains its sporty handling, willing 328-hp 3.7-liter V-6 and 7-speed automatic transmis-sion. Every Q40 offers standard high intensity discharge xenon headlights with auto on/off. Q40 is available in RWD and AWD iterations.

With a wheelbase that’s 5.9 inches longer than the regular car, the Q70L adds 5.6 inches of rear-seat legroom and gets a more luxurious ride

New long-wheelbase Q70L debuts ... G37 returns as Q40

There’s big news for lovers of Italian sports cars; the new Alfa Romeo 4C is now on sale at Spokane’s Barton Alfa Romeo-Fiat. With its lightweight carbon-fibre architecture, turbocharged 237-hp all-aluminum four-cylinder engine and Formula 1-inspired suspension, the 4C is capa-ble of a 160-mph top speed and runs the 0-60 sprint in 4 seconds.

InfinitiAlfa Romeo

The all-new Chevrolet Trax bundles four-passenger goodness and a long stan-dard features list into a subcompact frame. With its upright stance, the subcom-pact crossover offers up abundant head- and legroom for four adult passengers. A 60/40 split-folding rear seat boosts cargo space and the front passenger seat folds flat to accommodate long items. Standard gear includes automatic headlights, keyless entry, full power accessories, air-conditioning and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Onboard electronics include the Chevrolet MyLink interface with a 7-inch touchscreen and integrated smartphone apps, a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, GM’s OnStar telematics, a built-in WiFi hotspot and Siri Eyes Free voice control for iPhones. A 138-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine does the heavy lifting. Both the Tahoe and Suburban receive quieter and more refined interiors, revised sheet metal and thriftier powertrains. Integrated fold-flat third-row seats replace the old, removable unit. Inside, there’s a new touchscreen interface, with added smartphone integration, and the latest electronic safety features. A new 355-hp 5.3-liter V-8, with direct injection and cylinder deactivation, powers both rigs, each of which can be had with a traditional four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing. Tahoe can tow up to 8,600 pounds, Suburban to 8,300 pounds. The Corvette Z06 returns, with a supercharged V-8 churning out 650 hp. Suspension and brake upgrades keep the works planted. The rest of the family gets an optional eight-speed automatic transmission, plus enhanced OnStar func-tionality with a 4G LTE data connection and mobile Wi-Fi hotspot capability.

With its upright stance, the subcompact Trax offers up abundant head- and legroom for four adult passengers.

Chevy debuts a tiny crossover ... refreshes jumbo SUVs ... powers up the ‘Vette.Chevrolet


Expires 2/17/15.

Documents

Spokane auto show, february 13, 2015