Connecticut International Auto Show Blog
First Drive: 2014 Chevrolet Impala
Tuesday, 09 October 2012 15:16
The 10th generation of one of America’s most iconic sedans will be available in early 2013. The redesigned 2014 Chevrolet Impala features a new, sculpted body and flowing interior, as well as three engine choices, including eAssist. The 2014 Impala’s redesigned center console also features an eight-inch touch screen with the Chevrolet MyLink system. Other available features include full-speed-range adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, rear camera and rear-park assist. The 2014 Impala is a modern interpretation of classic American style and luxury.
First Drive: 2013 Ford C-MAX Energi
Monday, 17 September 2012 15:24
Hybrids are old hat by now, and range anxiety proves that consumers aren’t quite ready to switch to pure electrics just yet. That leaves a new middle ground for hybrid plug-ins, like the 2013 Ford C-MAX Energi. A marriage between the best of both technologies, these vehicles plug in to charge, but when the electricity runs out, fall back on hybrid engines to keep the car running. The C-MAX Energi has three driving modes: EV Now (electric only), EV Auto (electric/gasoline blend), or EV Later (gasoline only). It achieves a combined fuel rating of 95 MPG-e (its sister, the C-MAX Hybrid, achieves 47 MPG). Check out the 2013 Ford C-MAX Energi at the Show this year, and see how it stacks up against its strong plug-in hybrid competition, like the Chevy Volt and Toyota Prius Plug-In.
First Drive: 2013 Aston Martin Vanquish
Tuesday, 17 July 2012 11:54
Mr. Bond's other Aston.
The DB5 may be the most iconic vehicle in its history, but in a year that brings the debut of the latest 007 adventure, Aston Martin also ushers in a revival of the Vanquish. The sleek head-turner made it's first splash (literally) in 2002's Die Another Day (no, seriously -- remember the melting ice palace?), buoying it to the upper ranks of movie cars. The new Vanquish evolves from the DBS, with luxurious inspiration from the the exclusive One-77. The lavish attention to detail on the interior (such as hand-stitched leather) is carried over to the mechanics under the hood (or "bonnet", as Bond would say). Aston Martin's flagship V12 engine has been tweaked to deliver 565 bhp and 460 lb-ft of torque, resulting in 0-62 mph in 4.1 seconds and topping out at 183 mph. Utilizing an updated Touchtronic 2 transmission that's shaken, not stirred, the Vanquish is only available as an automatic. The Vanquish is set to conquer these shores next year, estimated at around $300,000. In the meantime, pay homage to 007 in November's Skyfall, and check out the current Aston Martin lineup at www.astonmartin.com.
First Drive: 2013 Dodge Dart
Monday, 09 July 2012 11:20
What's the hottest segment in the auto industry right now? Forget the SUVs and people carriers of old, because compact cars are on fire. With their small dimensions and light weights, compacts have become the consumer's weapon of choice to combat rising gas prices. With the stylish 2013 Dart, Dodge aims to make a splash in the compact segment and appeal to younger, economical buyers. The brand's first vehicle to be built on Fiat technology, the Dart is highly customizable, with unbundled options. Buyers can choose from 12 exterior colors, 14 interior color combinations, 4 grilles, 6 wheels, and 3 engines and transmissions. It also offers affordable luxury, with standard features like a back up camera starting for under $20,000. With an entry model that achieves 160hp and 36mpg (all without sacrificing safety features like 10 standard airbags), the 2013 Dart is an excellent red-hot addition to a segment that has traditionally been ruled by the most boring shades of beige. Don't miss it at the Show this year!
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