The latest rides on the road run the gamut from super cool to red-hot
By Jim Gorzelany
CTW Features
Though SUVs and pickups may be the auto industry’s darlings these days, manufacturers aren’t ignoring their loyal sedan and sports car fans. Here’s a quick look at a fresh fleet of passenger cars coming to dealers’ showrooms for the 2017 model year:
- Alfa Romeo Giulia. This comely midsize Italian sedan comes to America this fall packing a choice of either a quick 276-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a truly fast 505-horsepower bi-turbo V6 in the top “Quadrifoglio” model — it’s good for a 0-60 mph time of just 3.8 seconds. Expect tenacious handing abilities, with all-wheel-drive available in four-cylinder models for added foul-weather prowess.
- Chevrolet Bolt. This new full-electric subcompact hatchback promises a 200-mile range on a charge — which is about twice (or more) than most current EVs — with a top speed of 91 mph. Its available navigation system can create driving routes to help maximize the car’s range, and can find nearby charging stations if battery power is running low.
- Genesis G90. The large rear-drive luxury sedan formerly known as the Hyundai Equus is restyled and renamed the G90 for 2017 as the flagship in the automaker’s new Genesis line of luxury cars. It remains stately looking inside and out and features either a new 365-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6, or a smooth V8 with 420 horses. Its Nappa leather and wood-trimmed interior can be fitted with ambient mood lighting and a 22-way power driver’s seat.
- Fiat 124 Spider. Sharing its underpinnings with the Mazda MX-5 Miata, this new roadster honors the 1960’s original and packs a 160-horsepower four-cylinder engine. Expect playful rear-drive handling, especially in the top “Elaborazione Abarth” version that packs a sport suspension and other enhancements that include an optional Brembo braking system
- Hyundai Ioniq. Hyundai’s latest hatchback covers all the bases, debuting for 2017 in hybrid, plug-in hybrid and full-electric versions. The plug-in model is able to run solely on battery power for the first 25 miles, while the Ioniq Electric is claimed to run for up to 110 miles on a full charge and deliver the electric equivalent of 125 mpg. Options include a cruise control system that can operate in stop-and-go traffic.
- Jaguar XE. Jaguar takes on the venerable BMW 3 Series with this aggressive-looking compact sports sedan. It features a choice of gasoline or diesel-powered four-cylinder engines, or a supercharged V6 with 340 horses that can take the car to 60 mph in around five seconds. Expect tenacious handling, with a new All-Surface Progress Control system available to help maintain traction at low speeds on slippery surfaces.
- Lexus LC. Lexus new line of driver-focused sports coupes debuts for 2017 with the low-slung LC 500 and its 467-horsepower V8 engine. This is the first model to ride on a new premium rear-wheel-drive luxury platform the automaker says delivers “enhanced dynamic capability and performance.” A high-performance gas/electric hybrid version will follow, with a convertible model also said to be in the works.
- Lincoln Continental. Lincoln’s new full-size flagship sedan brings back a cherished name and backs it up with ample luxury. A new twin-turbocharged V6 engine generates an estimated 400 horsepower with 400 pound-feet of torque for brisk V8-like acceleration. A three-mode suspension and steering system assures a smooth ride with effortless handling abilities. Its roomy interior can be fitted with 30-way adjustable heated, cooled and massaging front seats.
- Volvo S90/V90. Volvo’s stylish new top sedan and station wagon models offer either a 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a higher-performance 316-horsepower turbo-four with all-wheel-drive in top models. Packed with technology that includes a large tablet-like touchscreen display, available safety features includes a semi-autonomous Drive Control system that keeps the car centered within lane markers on the highway.
© CTW Features
