USA - New packaging options and enhanced technology make 2015 Sorento an even better deal

• Kia’s latest version of UVO telematics included in hot-selling CUV 
• 3.3-liter V6 and 2.4-liter 4-cylinder GDI engines offer fun-to-drive performance and fuel efficiency

A little more than a year ago, Kia Motors America (KMA) debuted a significantly redesigned Sorento CUV at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.  No mere refresh or facelift, the Sorento benefitted from an all-new chassis, a powerful new Gasoline Direct Injected (GDI) V6 engine, a restyled interior, a next-generation infotainment system and Kia’s first-ever Blind Spot Detection system.  Carrying over into the 2015 model year, the Sorento success story continues.  The 2015 Sorento remains a formidable competitor in the CUV segment, offering equal measures of value and sophistication.

Available in four trims – LX, EX, SX and SX Limited – the 2015 Sorento is offered with an all-aluminum 3.3-liter GDI V6, which produces a smooth 290 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and a stout 252 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,200 rpm, and a fuel-sipping 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder engine – enhanced for 2015 to provide greater fuel efficiency – producing 191 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 181 lb.-ft. of torque at a low 4,250 rpm.

Power is routed to either the front wheels or, optionally, to all four using an enhanced Torque On Demand all-wheel drive system that seamlessly directs power to the tire with the most traction and now includes Torque Vectoring Cornering Control (TVCC) for added stability under certain driving conditions.

Regardless of engine or driveline choice, the 2015 Sorento comes standard with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.  Also standard is Electric Motor Driven Power Steering for improved efficiency, and it’s quicker with 2.95 turns of the steering wheel, lock-to-lock.  The steering also features an available Flex Steer™ system that offers drivers a choice of three steering modes: Comfort, Normal and Sport.

The 2015 Sorento sports dynamic and sophisticated design elements, inside and out.  Aggressively styled front and rear fascias enhance the Sorento’s road presence with a lower, broader appearance up front and a visually wider stance at the rear.  For 2015, the signature Kia grille is enhanced with an anodized silver metal or black mesh appearance, and the lower valance has been opened to expose an aggressive cross-hatched intake.  Front LED positioning lamps create dramatic eyebrows while projector-style headlights peer from behind tapered clear lenses.  Available fog lights on all trim models are upended and pushed to the far corners of the front bumper for better forward and side visibility.  Horizontally positioned rear LED combination lamps embrace the turn signal and back-up lights, emitting a warm corona that makes the 2015 Sorento instantly recognizable from behind.  The Sorento rides on handsomely designed 17-, 18- and available 19-inch wheels.

Inside, the instrument panel deftly combines technology with proven ergonomics.  Standard on EX and available on the LX trim, the large center gauge cluster features a 7-inch TFT LCD that projects a digital speedometer flanked by easy-to-read analog instruments for the tachometer, fuel level and engine temperature. The TFT LCD readout also displays trip and vehicle information, along with navigation updates (optional).  The center stack’s appearance and layout convey a modern feel, and button positions are arranged for a more user-friendly experience.

The 2015 Sorento is designed with a large, vibrant touch screen.  Diagonally spanning eight inches, the optional screen integrates navigation, SiriusXM Traffic1 with real-time road information updates, a premium Infinity®2 audio system, SiruisXM Satellite Radios, Bluetooth® hands-free connectivity3, vehicle settings and UVO eServices4, Kia’s next generation of infotainment and telematics.  For 2015, navigation can be uncoupled from UVO and the Infinity sound system, delivering an added option for superior voice-recognition technology and premium sound quality. Carry-over options in the 2015 Sorento include a programmable power liftgate, panoramic sunroof with a one-piece, power-operated shade, integrated 2nd row sliding sunshades, available dual ventilated air-cooled front seats, a 115-volt power inverter, and illuminated door handle pockets.

LEXUS #2 - 2014 Lexus LX570, luxury, capability and and technology all in one great car

• 383-hp 5.7-liter V8 and substantial towing capability
• Full-time 4WD with Multi-terrain Select system
• Adaptive Variable Suspension provides silken-smooth ride
• Lexus Enform® with App Suite multimedia

Navigate urban traffic in superlative comfort with room for eight? Wind along rutted, off-road trails to a secluded vacation home? Tow a horse trailer? The Lexus LX 570 can dispatch all of those duties with aplomb, all the while providing the comfort, luxury and infotainment technology expected from a Lexus flagship model. A safari would not be out of the question.

The Lexus LX was the first premium, full-capability prestige three-row luxury utility vehicle, and the latest edition, refreshed in 2013, wears the bold brand-signature spindle grille front design.

While many luxury buyers find an all-wheel drive crossover fits their needs, those requiring true off-pavement driving capability and high towing capacity find those capabilities with seating for up to eight in the LX 570. For nearly 20 years, the Lexus LX models have offered an optimal balance of luxury, off-road capability and everyday usability. It’s the luxury SUV that can take the whole family on a camping adventure, including towing the camper. The LX 570 comes standard with a 7,000-pound towing capacity.

No-Compromise Capability
The LX 570’s capability to handle heavy loads and rutted roads is rooted in its high-strength body-on-frame construction and plenty of power. The 5.7-liter V8 engine produces 383 horsepower and 403 lb.-ft. of torque and is teamed to a six-speed automatic transmission with standard full-time four-wheel drive. Ninety percent of peak torque comes on stream at just 2,200 rpm, giving the LX 570 exceptional responsiveness and also making it an outstanding tow vehicle.

The full-time four-wheel drive system in the Lexus LX 570 employs a Torsen® limited-slip locking center differential that splits the power 40:60 under normal driving conditions. The rearward power bias contributes to on-road agility. The Torsen differential responds to changing conditions, adjusting the power distribution as necessary, with no input needed from the driver. The driver can, however, lock the center differential to handle especially challenging off-road trails.

Working in concert with the 4WD system, the four-wheel Active Traction Control system (A-TRAC) helps to control wheel slip. The Multi-Terrain Select system lets the driver select the type of terrain -- Rock, Rock & Dirt, Mogul, Loose Rock, or Mud & Sand – to optimize Active Traction Control.

A driver-selectable low range for the transmission, something many other luxury SUVs lack, provides low-speed crawling capability for handling steep off-road declines. Shifting into low range engages
Active Height Control, which raises the vehicle to increase ground clearance by two inches.

Low-range capability is augmented by Crawl Control with Turn Assist and Hill-start Assist Control. Crawl Control carefully manipulates the throttle and brakes to help maintain a steady slow, even pace on steep declines or while maneuvering over rough, uneven or difficult surfaces. The Hill-start Assist Control can prevent the LX 570 from rolling backward when moving from a stop on an incline.

While on trails, the LX 570’s Turn Assist feature helps tighten the vehicle turning circle by applying brake force to the inside rear wheel. The Variable Gear Ratio Steering gives the LX 570 optimal steering response in slow, rugged trail driving situations and enhances directional control in highway driving.

Silken Ride
What’s really remarkable about the Lexus LX 570’s capability is that it’s paired with the brand’s renowned silken ride quality. High-strength construction establishes the foundation for such comfort, and it’s aided here by Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). This technology continually adjusts the shock absorber damping rates on the move, ensuring optimal comfort even as the road surface changes. Selectable Comfort, Normal and Sport modes allow the driver to tailor the system’s ride firmness and comfort.

         
Whatever the suspension setting, everyone aboard rides in the lap of luxury, as the Lexus LX 570 comes equipped with such standard amenities as a driver’s 14-way power adjustable front seat, four-zone independent climate control, front power-seat cushion extenders, navigation system, a rear back-up camera, a power-sliding second-row seat and power-retractable third-row seat.

The LX 570 can even help make getting in and out of the vehicle easier. When the ignition is turned off, the Easy Access system automatically retracts the steering wheel and moves the driver’s seat rearward. Both return to their preset memory positions the next time the driver is seated and turns on the ignition. Active Height Control, which is engaged for off-road travel, lowers the LX 570 by about two inches to assist when entering or exiting. Normal height resumes automatically when the vehicle begins to accelerate.

Versatility
When full 8-passenger seating is not needed, the Lexus LX 570 can open up a large useful cargo area. With the 50/50 split power-retractable third row seat folded into the floor, the LX 570 provides 41 cu. ft. of carrying space, and this expands to 83.1 cu. ft. with the 40/20/40 split middle row folded. The clamshell-design tailgate, which features a power upper section, is much more versatile than a typical one-piece hatch.

Connected, Informed and Entertained
Cutting-edge multimedia abounds in the Lexus LX 570, providing something for everyone onboard.  Lexus Enform® can make a compatible Bluetooth® smartphone even smarter. The available Enform service, with Destination Assist, eDestination, and App Suite, comes with the Navigation System/Mark Levinson® Audio Package.  Lexus Enform provides access to the subscription-free App Suite.  These voice-enabled apps let you search the Internet through Bing™, make restaurant reservations through OpenTable®, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com™, listen to Internet radio, including , Pandora®, and  iHeartRadio™, search business reviews on Yelp®, and check in on  Facebook Places™.

Lexus Enformwith Safety Connect® is available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are available on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features. Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles while Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is on all vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.

Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative SiriusXM® services including NavTraffic, NavWeather, Sports, Stocks and Fuel Prices. SiriusXM services offer complimentary one-year trial data subscription.

The standard navigation system features Voice Command casual-language voice recognition.

Music plays in the LX 570 via iPod®/USB connectivity, HD Radio™ with iTunes® tagging, and streaming music via Bluetooth through a nine-speaker Lexus Premium Sound system or the available, sonically stunning 19-speaker, 450-watt Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound audio system. An available dual screen rear seat entertainment system allows two sources to be viewed at the same time. A 120-volt power outlet in the middle row can power a video game, laptop computer or other device.

Vehicle Details

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance

• 5.7-liter V8 produces 383 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 403 lb.-ft. peak torque at 3,600 rpm.
• An electronically-controlled six-speed automatic transmission estimates road conditions and predicts the driver's intention in order to select the appropriate gear ratio for the vehicle's speed and the driving conditions.
• A sequential shift mode allows the driver to select gears manually.
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) helps maintain directional control during cornering and can be disengaged via the “TRAC off” switch.
• Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) helps provide additional control for off-road driving by helping to keep the vehicle from rolling back when transitioning from the brake to the gas pedal on a steep incline or slippery surface.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes

• Body-on-frame construction provides ruggedness and durability in challenging driving conditions, along with impressive ride isolation characteristics and a 7,000-pound maximum towing capability.
• The Active Height Control (AHC) system lowers the chassis by about two inches for easy entry and exit and returns automatically to its normal height when the vehicle begins to accelerate.
• Split five-spoke, 20-inch alloy wheels with Liquid Graphite finish and 285/50R20 tires.
• The multi-terrain Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) determines road-surface conditions and automatically optimizes lock-up control, selecting the suitable ABS profile for on- and off-road driving surfaces.
• Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) employs the ABS to properly balance braking forces between the front and rear wheels, while Brake Assist (BA) provides auxiliary force to assist the driver during emergency braking.
• Crawl Control feature provides optimum throttle and brake modulation when maneuvering over rough, uneven or difficult terrain.
• Turn Assist helps tighten the vehicle’s turning circle by adding more brake force to the inside rear wheel.

Safety/Security Features

• 10 standard airbags, including driver- and front-passenger knee airbags, front and second-row seat-mounted side airbags in the outboard seating positions, and roll-sensing side curtain airbags that cover all three rows.
• First vehicle in its class to use Active Front Headrests that move upward and forward in the event of certain low speed rear-end collisions when the force of the occupant's body is applied to the seat back.
• First in its class to offer available Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
• First Lexus to offer the optional Wide-view Front and Side Monitor. Designed for use in tight settings, such as parking garages, cameras can display the front and side views simultaneously in split-screen mode

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

• 120-volt power outlet in the middle row.
• Mahogany wood trim.
• The 40/20/40 split, power-sliding second-row seat slides forward and aft 3.5 inches for passenger comfort and cargo storage versatility.
• Power retractable third row provides easy access to the cargo area.
• The split rear tailgate features a power upper door, while the bottom section raises and lowers with minimal effort.

Luxury Options

• Luxury Package includes a cool box for beverages; semi-aniline leather-trimmed upholstery with contrast stitching; heated steering wheel and mahogany wood trimmed door switch plates and rear armrest; heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row seats (outboard positions).
• Dual screen rear-seat entertainment system with wireless headphones and three-prong electrical outlet.
• Cutting-edge infotainment abounds in the Lexus LX 570, providing something for everyone onboard.

Warranty

• 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles.
• 72 months/70,000 miles powertrain and restraint system coverage.
• 72 months corrosion perforation protection coverage, regardless of mileage.

FRANKFURT - Lexus displays a not too pretty concept

• World debut for the Lexus LF-NX mid-size crossover concept
• Live streaming of the press conference is available here.
• European premiere of the Lexus GS 300h

Lexus’s presentation at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show (IAA) is led by the world-first appearance of its new LF-NX concept, a vision for a mid-size luxury crossover model.

The show also hosts the first European public appearance of the new Lexus GS 300h, a full hybrid that will be added to the new GS model range in the UK later this year.

Lexus LF-NX concept

• Vision for a mid-size Lexus crossover model
• Distinctive, sculpted exterior
• Lexus Hybrid Drive full hybrid powertrain tuned for SUV performance
• Human Oriented interior with touch-sensitive instrumentation
• Debut appearance at 2013 Frankfurt motor show on 10 September

A new Lexus mid-size crossover concept, the LF-NX, will make its world debut at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show, a study that explores the potential for this kind of vehicle in the Lexus model range.

The LF-NX reinforces Lexus’s leadership in hybrid power in the premium market, being powered by a new variation of the Lexus Hybrid Drive full hybrid system, tuned for SUV performance. It combines a 2.-5-litre, four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine with a power electric motor. At lower speeds, LF-NX can be driven under electric motor power alone.

The powerfully sculpted styling reflects a further evolution of the L-finesse design language that influences the look of all today’s Lexus models.

The car’s frontal appearance is dominated by a strong interpretation of Lexus’s spindle grille and a signature arrangement of the front lights. The daytime running lights are given added visual emphasis by being positioned independent from the headlamps, in a similar fashion to the new Lexus IS, and underscored by full length LED turn signal lamps. The headlamps comprise three diamond-shaped LED units.

The LF-NX also displays a distinctive treatment of the front corners, which separate the bumper from the front wings with a sharp vertical cut line that narrows to a point beneath the headlamp units.

In profile, the LF-NX concept presents muscular wheel arches, edged with a black protective finish that expresses its urban crossover character. Above the pronounced diamond shape of the belt line, the side glazing is arranged in the classic Lexus profile, which works with the steep rake of the tailgate and integrated rear spoiler to create an athletic coupe-like silhouette. Both the front and rear wings are formed by a series of muscular, concave and convex curves.

At the rear the highly articulated lamp clusters project down the full depth of the bumper, creating a sharp, aerodynamic trailing edge to the vehicle that mirrors the detailing of the front wing design. The classic Lexus L-shape of the lamps is scored strongly into the rear bodywork, echoing the spindle form of the front grille. The wide lower bumper has no visible exhaust outlet, in recognition of the full hybrid powertrain’s low emissions performance.

The concept is being presented in a new Brushed Metal Silver exterior finish that creates a striking impression of the car having been carved from a single piece of solid metal.

The interior mirrors the highly sculpted approach to the exterior with powerful forms and a highly ergonomic driver’s cockpit.

The cabin follows the “Human Oriented” element of Lexus’s L-finesse design, presenting a dashboard divided between an upper display zone and lower operation zone – a format perfected in successive generations of Lexus models. This enables intuitive interaction with the concept vehicle’s next generation technology, including touch-sensitive electrostatic switches and a new touchpad Remote Touch Interface design. Ease of use is further supported by an adjustable driver’s armrest.

The centre console extends the full length of the cabin, bisecting the rear seats. Its bright, brushed metal finish has also been applied to the main instrument meters, the steer wheel, seat structure and overhead console.

The concept’s status as a premium crossover is reinforced by carved metal surfacing around the interior, sophisticated blue instrument lighting and yellow and black leather upholstery with contrast stitching.

Lexus GS 300h

• Introduction of GS 300h makes Lexus the first premium brand to offer two full hybrid vehicles within the same model range
• 2.5-litre Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain delivers CO2 emissions from 109g/km and combined cycle fuel consumption of more than 60mpg
• Full GS range to benefit from desigh technology and safety enhancements
• Details of UK range and specifications for new GS 300h to be released shortly

The introduction of the new GS 300h premium saloon makes Lexus the first prestige brand to offer a choice of two full hybrid powertrains in the same model range, the new version lining up alongside the GS 450h launched in 2012.

The GS 300h will be launched in the UK later this year, with details of performance and specifications due to be announced shortly.

Lexus is taking the opportunity of the new model addition to bring in a series of design, technology and safety enhancements for the full GS range.

The new GS 300h is powered by a second generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system, similar to that introduced in the IS 300h. It offers significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2, NOx and particulate emissions, at no cost to performance.

The full hybrid system comprises a 141bhp (105kW) electric motor and a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC Atkinson cycle petrol engine with next-generation D-4S fuel injection, Dual VVT-i intelligent valve timing and a high-efficiency exhaust gas recirculation system. The engine develops 178bhp (133kW) at 6,000rpm and 221Nm of torque from 4,200 to 5,400rpm.

Drive is to the rear wheels via an electronic continuously variable transmission (ECVT). Total system power is 220bhp (164kW). CO2 emissions for the GS 300h will start at 109g/km – band B for UK road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty), with combined cycle fuel consumption from 60.1mpg.

The GS 300h remains true to the principles of delivering an engaging drive that have helped shaped he dynamic performance of the new GS range. It features double wishbone front and multilink rar suspension systems, powerful brakes and sharp, accurate steering to deliver agile handling, excellent body control, high speed stability and the kind of ride comfort expected of a Lexus.

The GS 300h F Sport will be available with additional elements to sharpen ride and handling, including Active Variable Suspension..

In styling terms, the GS 300h adopts the exterior design introduced by the GS 450h in 2012, including the prominent interpretation of the Lexus spindle grill design.

The launch of the GS 300h will also usher a choice of additional F-Sport-specific colours, including G White, Starlight Black and Midnight Blue (UK colour designations will be announced shortly). LED fog lamps are now available for F Sport models and the option of 19-inch alloy wheels has been extended to Luxury grade versions of GS.

The spacious, finely crafted interior follows the latest Lexus cabin design theme with an ergonomic, dual-zone driver cockpit and use of advanced HMI technologies designed to help keep drivers alert as well providing easy, intuitive operation of controls and access to information. The fourth generation GS introduced a number of technology innovations, including an S-Flow energy saving air conditioning system with integrated climate management and nanoe technology; a second generation Remote Touch Interface linked to one of the world’s largest on-board information displays; and a choice of audio systems offering unparalleled power and clarity.

At the same time as Lexus adds the GS 300h to the range it also makes a new design shift lever and colour head-up display available for the GS 450h.

The GS’s comprehensive array of active, passive and preventive safety features is being further extended, with addition of a Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which uses the same radar technology as the Blind Spot Monitor to alert the driver to vehicles approaching from either side when reversing out of a parking space.

2014 Honda Accord Pricing and EPA Chart

This Chart provides a breakdown of all the 2014 Honda Accord Sedan and Coupe models.  You can compare options, EPA mileage, and pricing between models

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Model	Transmission	MSRP*	EPA** City/Hwy/Combined MPG
SEDAN
4-cylinder models
Accord LX Sedan	6-Speed Manual	$21,955	24/34/28
	CVT1	$22,755	27/36/30
Accord Sport Sedan	6-Speed Manual	$23,715	24/34/28
	CVT	$24,515	26/35/29
Accord EX Sedan	6-Speed Manual	$24,880	24/34/28
	CVT	$25,680	27/36/30
Accord EX-L Sedan	CVT	$28,270	27/36/30
Accord EX-L Sedan Navi	CVT	$30,045	27/36/30
V-6 models
Accord EX-L V-6 Sedan	6-Speed Automatic	$30,345	21/34/26
Accord EX-L V-6 Sedan Navi	6-Speed Automatic	$32,120	21/34/26
Accord Touring V-6	6-Speed Automatic	$33,480	21/34/26
COUPE
4-cylinder models
Accord LX-S Coupe	6-Speed Manual	$23,625	24/34/28
	CVT	$24,475	26/34/29
Accord EX Coupe	6-Speed Manual	$25,300	24/34/28
	CVT	$26,150	26/34/29
Accord EX-L Coupe	CVT	$28,345	26/34/29
Accord EX-L Coupe Navi	CVT	$30,120	26/34/29
V-6 models
Accord EX-L V-6 Coupe	6-Speed Manual	$30,625	18/28/22
	6-Speed Automatic	$30,625	21/32/25
Accord EX-L V-6 Coupe Navi	6-Speed Manual	$32,400	18/28/22
	6-Speed Automatic	$32,400	21/32/25
1 CVT = Continuously Variable Transmission
*Manufacturer 's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) excluding tax, license, registration, $790 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
**Based on 2014 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.