If you’re more performance-oriented, however, the Acura TLX Type S may be more up your alley. Here’s a deeper look into why the Type S deserves the attention of serious enthusiasts.

What’s Under the Hood

The car’s performance mostly comes from the 3.0L turbo V6 engine. This engine is specifically made for the Type S, and its capabilities include churning out 355-HP and 354-lb-ft of peak torque. Also, according to Acura, the engine in the sedan can reach peak torque at just 1400RPM, which translates into faster acceleration. 

The Type S is also fitted with a Super Handling all-wheel-drive system (SH-AWD), which boosts handling even when you step on the gas. It does this by vectoring power between the axles, so the car can turn better in fast corners. A locking rear differential is added for extra measure. As a result, the system does exceptionally well at controlling wheel power.

The car’s transmission is a 10-speed automatic, although manual mode is available as well. Also notable is the double-wishbone suspension, which partly explains why the car is so stable while cornering.

The bottom line? If you’re an enthusiast driver, you’ll feel the power and emotion of the ride as soon as you get behind the wheel, with the engine sounding every bit as good as it feels.

Bringing Interior and Exterior Style

The Acura TLX Type S has an extremely aggressive and athletic-looking body with the aerodynamics to enhance downforce and traction. Additionally, it incorporates quad exhausts in its design—something it picked up from the much older 2008 TL Type S.

There are also two trim levels, though the difference between the regular TLX Type S and the higher trim version of the vehicle is minimal. You’ll note the upgrade primarily in the wheels, where the latter incorporates Acura NSX Type S-inspired, lightweight Y-spoke wheels matched with high-performance tires and enhanced brakes.

With a flat-bottom steering wheel, the car’s interior feels just as sporty as the exterior. It also comes standard with ultra-suede trimmed seats, though it’s possible to select an orchid leather interior exclusive to the Type S as well.

Head-to-Head: The TLX Type S vs. the Regular TLX

Both the TLX sedan and the TLX Type S are built on the same platform, so there isn’t much to separate the two. In fact, the 2022 regular TLX, which was on the market much earlier than its counterpart, was built with the Type S in mind.

One major difference comes in the engine where, as we mentioned, the 3.0L turbo V6 is made exclusively for the Type S. The regular TLX sedan, meanwhile, has a 2.0L turbo VTEC engine with a maximum power output of 272-HP.

Also, while Super Handling all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) is standard on the Type S, it’s optional on its less performance-oriented counterpart.

Unsurprisingly, the premium performance of the Type S means a difference in price tags, too. The lowest trim of the regular TLX is available for $37,700, while the pricing for the Type S starts at approximately $52,300.

Head-to-Head: The TLX Type S vs. the Competition

The primary competitors for the TLX Type S include the BMW M340i and Mercedes AMG C43. The $58,795 BMW, according to Car and Driver, comes with a 382-HP turbocharged inline-six engine. It’s also a bit quicker than the TLX, achieving 60 mph in about 4.1 seconds.

The Mercedes AMG C43 is even more expensive with its $61,550 starting price. It achieves the same 4.1 seconds acceleration as the BMW M340i, thanks to a 385 HP 3.0L V6.

In terms of value for money, the Type S is one of the best offerings available and comes cheaper than its competition. Our one caveat? A slightly lower power-to-weight ratio means slightly slower acceleration relative to the BMW and Mercedes: The Type S goes from 0-60mph in about 4.9 seconds. Its extra weight, however, combined with superior handling from the SH-AWD, means it feels a bit more stable and firm on the road.

The post The 2022 Acura TLX Type S: A Car for Serious Performance Enthusiasts appeared first on Verblio.

Sierra Options for a Futuristic EV

Car and Driver recently reported on GMC’s teaser image of the Sierra EV’s front grille, but, besides that futuristic peek, information about the new electric pickup has been scarce. Based on the existing options for the Sierra 1500, however, we can make some predictions as to the future EV’s specs.

The Sierra EV will likely offer Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab configurations, with short, standard, and long box beds available. We also expect the EV to sport a 13.4-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. These features are currently available on all Sierra 1500 trims except the base model Pro, so we anticipate the EV will follow suit.

Another EV to Come Out of Factory Zero

We also know that the electric Sierra will be manufactured alongside the Hummer and the Chevy Silverado EV at GMC’s Factory Zero plant in Detroit, Michigan, to leverage the plant’s economies of scale. It’s expected to share the same platform as the Silverado and use the same Ultium battery packs that provide the Chevy pickup up to 400 miles of range.

These ties to the Silverado provide additional clues as to the electric Sierra’s potential capabilities. The Silverado EV, which will be released as a 2024 model, will be powered by two motors, as compared to the Hummer’s three. Its horsepower ranges between 510 and 664, depending on trim choice, and it will come with a fast-charging option that provides 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes.

The Silverado will also come standard with AWD, be able to tow up to five tons, and carry a 1300-pound payload. However, given that the gas-powered Silverado can haul and tow a bit more than the Sierra 1500, the Silverado EV may have the upper hand over the Sierra EV on these capabilities as well. 

The GMC Sierra EV: The Next Electric Pickup

So far, all we have for the GMC Sierra EV is a front grille, and a lot of speculation. GMC has not yet revealed so much as a release date for its newest electric pickup.

It’s logical to assume, however, that as GMC looks to scale up EV production rapidly in the next few years, the company would manufacture similar models using the same chassis, powertrains, and other fundamental components. Given how much the gas-powered Silverado and Sierra have in common, it’s likely the Silverado and Sierra EVs will be similar as well.

In the meantime, what we know for certain is that the Sierra EV will be built using the Ultium platform, with production slated to begin in 2023 at Factory Zero.  As for the rest, only time will tell.

The post What We Know About GMC’s New 2023 Sierra EV appeared first on Verblio.

If you’re looking for a convertible to spruce up this season’s drives—whether that’s across town or across the country—you’ve got nearly unlimited options from different manufacturers. To help narrow your options, we drew our own conclusions about five of this year’s top choices.

1. 2022 BMW Z4 Roadster

Starting MSRP: $49,900

The BMW Z4 Roadster is a fast, agile, and sophisticated machine. The smallest convertible BMW offers, this two-seater prioritizes a downright fun driving experience with sport-tuned suspension and rear-wheel drive, in addition to its 3.0L I6 Turbo engine.

Unsurprisingly, the Roadster is built around the driver. It also offers two trim levels and includes much of the tech that is becoming standard on new cars, such as Android Auto/Apple CarPlay compatibility and remote start. While it lacks several of the assistive driving features that you’ll see from the more expensive options on this list, the Roadster is hard to beat for handling and sheer excitement.

2. 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 

Starting MSRP: $140,000

On the opposite end of the spectrum from the driver-obsessed Roadster, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a full-size luxury sedan built with comfort in mind. The four-seater features five trim levels and a host of customizable features, from the 64-color LED ambient lighting to the dual 12.3-inch widescreens. It also offers additional advanced technology, like the Mercedes-Benz AIRSCARF® neck-warming system designed to keep your convertible comfortable for longer. 

At that price tag, however, you want to know you’re not paying only for elegant add-ons. Fortunately, the S-Class delivers on the performance side, too. Its 4.0L Biturbo V8 engine can take you from 0 to 60 in 4.5, while all-wheel drive and adaptive suspension keep you firmly on the road. 

3. 2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

Starting MSRP: $69,695

While its styling has changed over the years, one thing that has never changed is the Corvette’s place at the top of many driver’s wishlists. On the inside, this two-seater features three trim levels, cooled front seats, a heads-up display, in-car WiFi, remote engine starting, and several other technologies for maximum comfort and convenience.

Under the hood, it is mounted with a high-performance 6.2L V8 engine for incredible speed, and it comes standard with rear-wheel drive. The Corvette continues to be the go-to convertible for anyone looking for a thrilling driving experience. 

4. 2022 Ford Mustang GT

Starting MSRP: $45,785

Another American classic, the Ford Mustang GT is both a high-style and high-performance convertible. The four-seater offers six trim levels and a 2.3L I4 Turbo engine with rear-wheel drive. 

As in most four-seaters, the Mustang’s backseat passengers may feel cramped—but honestly, you don’t drive a convertible for the space. Ford has also kept this car up-to-date with features like lane-assist technology and Bluetooth compatibility, while still keeping its classic feel, even down to the standard 6-speed manual transmission.

5. 2022 BMW 4 Series

Starting MSRP: $53,300

For a more fully decked out BMW than the Roadster, the 4 Series offers a choice between the core model 430i Convertible and the 430i xDrive Convertible. Both cars feature a 2.0L I4 engine, though the xDrive comes standard with all-wheel drive.

This four-seater also boasts a start/stop system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, pedestrian detection, front and rear parking sensors, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. It also features remote access via the BMW app to lock and unlock your doors and even start your engine.

Whether you want the agility of the Roadster, the comfort of the S-Class, or the all-American muscle of the Mustang, you can’t go wrong with any of these convertible picks. Still undecided? Browse more of our car insights to find the perfect vehicle for your summer (and year-round) drives.

The post Our Top 5 Convertibles of 2022 appeared first on Verblio.

Why so many traffic delays?

Traffic delays occur for a number of reasons, many of which are outside the control of the average driver on the road:

• Vehicle congestion: There are too many cars on the roads. For years, news outlets have warned of overcrowding and the resulting increase in charges for vehicle owners, especially in large cities. Some of those cities are even considering legislation that could limit the number of cars registered in the city in an effort to curb congestion.
• Public transportation: In many areas, public transportation is inaccessible and slow, making it hard to use and causing more people to turn to their cars. 
• Lack of sidewalk and bike paths: Eco-friendly transportation methods, including biking and walking, are inaccessible in many areas of America due to the sheer size of some cities, the way things are spread out in those cities, and even safety concerns. 
• Poorly-maintained roadways: Many roads require what seems like never-ending maintenance, causing shutdowns and increasing delays across the board. 
• Lack of expansion: There are no reasonable options for building more highways to increase convenience.

America’s roads are becoming increasingly hazardous, and more drivers than ever are struggling to make their commutes and keep them as safe as possible. Dealing with the challenge has become a pressing concern, particularly in many major cities. 

Each year, many of the citizens of those cities waste time sitting in traffic or waste money dealing with the impact on their vehicles from poorly-maintained roads, from increased risk of flat tires to brakes that have to be replaced more frequently. 

Solutions to Traffic Delays

While there are many challenges facing the average driver today—and many problems that could raise risks out on the road—luckily, there are also solutions. The Biden administration aims to repair damaged infrastructure and improve not just the quality of roads and transportation options, but their designs. With those efforts, drivers may soon start to see more solutions to the problems they’ve been facing.

Other solutions include:

• Better infrastructure: Cities of the future may have better infrastructure designed to reduce the need for personal vehicles, including a more robust, accessible public transportation system. 
• Autonomous vehicles: Driverless vehicles could decrease the number of people who have to own their own vehicles. 
• Rideshare options: Platforms like Uber and Lyft have already reduced demand for personal vehicle ownership and made it easier for the average person to access personalized transportation options in a convenient, accessible way. 
• Better road maintenance: New technology in asphalt paving and road creation makes it easier for cities to maintain the roads they already have, which can create a safer infrastructure and help avoid road closures. 
• Working from home: As people settle into a permanent work pattern amidst the pandemic, many more people may choose to work from home either in a hybrid model or on a full-time basis, easing some of the strain on roads. The high number of people moving out of big cities and into more suburban and rural areas may also help ease the strain.

The challenge of increased congestion on the roads is very real. Traffic accidents and fatalities continue to rise. The current road system is in dire need of strategies to help rebuild and transform it, from more reasonable public transportation options to better maintenance and repair that will help keep roads open and safe. 

While those challenges abound, however, Americans continue to adapt, from helping to create new technology to looking for ways that they can decrease time spent on the road.

The post Challenges Across the Nation: Overcrowded Roadways appeared first on Verblio.

Buying a car is a big investment. Whether you’re shopping for a big vehicle that will allow you to transport all the members of your family or you want a smaller, faster vehicle just for you, you want to make sure that you make the right choice. All those options can quickly become overwhelming! Following these tips, however, can make it easier for you to purchase the right car for you. 

Tip #1: Know how much car you can afford. 

Take a look at your budget before you start car shopping. How much do you have to put down as a down payment? Include the value of a trade-in if you have it. Next, evaluate how much you can afford to spend on car payments each month. Keep in mind that you may also need to calculate an increase in your insurance, especially if you’ll need to put full coverage insurance on your car while you pay it off. You may also want to check your credit score or visit a lender to get a better idea of what kind of loan you can get.

Tip #2: Narrow down the features you want.

Some people want all the latest and greatest features on their vehicles. Others are focused on safety features: the latest collision detection and avoidance technology, for example. Take a careful look at the features available for your vehicle and which ones you really want. Make a list of any deal-breaker features that you can’t do without. 

Tip #3: Do your research before you visit a dealership.

Many car buyers walk into a dealership with little to no idea of what they want to purchase, its market value, or even the type of vehicle they want. Visiting a dealership with no idea of what you want, however, can lead to wasted time–for both you and the salesperson. Instead, do some basic research before you visit the lot. Consider:

What type of vehicle do you want? Are you looking for a car, truck, van, or SUV? How many passengers do you want your vehicle to hold? 

How much cargo space do you need? When it comes to looking at SUVs or cars, in particular, cargo space can vary dramatically. Narrow down the vehicles that offer the cargo space you really need. 

What specific brands are you interested in? Check out reviews of popular vehicle brands that fit your requirements. Take a look at how long they usually last, what problems they’re most likely to have, and how happy people generally are with their purchase. 

When do people typically trade in the type of vehicle you’re considering? Are there a lot of vehicles available at a certain mileage? That could be when the vehicle starts having problems. 

Often, by doing your research ahead of time, you can significantly reduce the amount of time you spend in a dealership. It can also allow you to see whether a specific dealership has the vehicle you want in stock before you ever set foot on the lot. 

Tip #4: Check out what local dealerships can offer.

Many dealerships run through sales cycles around the same time. That does not mean, however, that all sales are created equal. Take a look at the specific incentives and sales offered by your local dealerships. Pay attention to financing options: if you intend to pay cash for a vehicle, you may not care about what financing options the dealership can offer.

On the other hand, you may be very interested in increase value for your trade-in or a deal that will allow you to save money on the sticker price of your car. In many cases, you may be able to get similar vehicles from different dealerships with dramatically different price points or features. 

Before you buy a new vehicle, make sure you consider all the relevant factors. A little forethought and planning can make your vehicle purchase much easier, and also ensure that you’re happier with the one you choose. 

The post The Top 4 Things to Consider When Buying a Car appeared first on Verblio.

Tune Up

Most new vehicles need servicing every 12 months or 12,000 miles. How often your car needs maintenance also depends on how hard you drive it. Heavy usage vehicles, off-road vehicles, and trucks that are used for work can get a full-service checkup every 6,000 miles.

A full check-up includes:

• Lubrication of all moving parts
• Check and top off transmission, antifreeze and brake fluids
• Oil change and new filter
• A 35 key electronic components check
• Vehicle’s computer check
• Air conditioning and heating systems checked
• Brake check
• Tire check
• Spark plugs changed when necessary
• Battery, alternator, and charging devices check
• Steering, suspension, and shock absorber check
• Exhaust system including a manifold check
• Special systems check for hybrid and electric motors

These are the major parts of a complete service check-up. You may find it necessary to check the oil and other fluids more frequently. Dashboard displays should warn you of any low fluids or other minor problems.

Winterizing a New Automobile

Preparations for winter weather is also based on where you live. Your windshield wipers may need to be changed frequently in rainy climates such as the Pacific Northwest. The wiper fluid receptacle should always be full.

Coolant and antifreeze should also be checked before winter. The antifreeze will keep your engine from freezing when the temperature drops. The vehicle’s manufacturer may have information on the type of antifreeze and engine oil preferred for cold weather.

You may need to change to snow tires in some areas. You should check your tire pressure and tread depth before heavy winter weather if you don’t have need snow tires. Wet pavement requires tires that give you a good grip.

A winter emergency kit is always a good idea. This includes flares, a flashlight, and blankets along with extra gloves and even a first-aid kit. You may need an extra ice scraper and shovel. Keep your cell phone charged, and it is a good idea to belong to a road service organization, even with a new car.

Enjoy your new vehicle. It will last for many years and thousands of miles with proper maintenance.

The post Maintain Your Vehicle in Top Condition appeared first on Verblio.

According to U.S. News, newer pre-owned F-150s lead in price and towing, while the Silverado has the edge in reliability. U.S. sales of the F-150 topped 896,000 units in 2017, a year-over-year increase of almost 10 percent.

Full-Size Pickups

In the latest U.S. News ranking of the top 25 used trucks under $25,000, Ford (F-150), GM (Sierra, Silverado and EXT) and Ram dominate. However, Toyota does place two Tundras on the list. The $25,000+ category is loaded with later model year versions of these same popular pickups, although Nissan’s Titan does make an appearance at #14.

Believe it or not, Ford introduced the 13th generation of F-150s in 2015. Ford has been an innovator in producing smaller, fuel-efficient, yet powerful engines, like the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 found in newer pre-owned F-150s.

Of real interest to consumers is that U.S. News also ranks the most reliable used pickups, and the GMC Sierra 1500 is the leader among traditional half-ton pickups. Keep in mind that the Chevy Silverado is the mechanically identical twin to the slightly more upscale Sierra. In 2014, GM introduced the third-generation Silverado/Sierra. The 5.3L Ecotec V8 is the most common engine, and the big 6.2L EcoTec V8 is an option for those that need even more power and torque.

Heavy-Duty Pickups

If you’re looking for a heavy-duty pickup for work or some serious towing, the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra are among the best vehicles in their class. Don’t be shy about taking a close look at the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500HD series pickups. Properly maintained, the 6.6L Duramax, coupled with the Allison transmission can perform well for hundreds of thousands of miles.

Of course, Ford didn’t build its reputation for dynamic pickup trucks without also delivering solid diesel options in its Super Duty line of F-250s and F-350s. Beginning in 2011, Ford offered the 6.7L Powerstroke Turbo Diesel, a real workhouse delivering 800+ lb-ft of torque. For less torque-intensive applications, Ford’s Super Duty gasoline engines are also very reliable.

Heavy-duty Ram pickups with their Cummins diesel engines certainly have a strong following as well. The 6.7L High-Output Turbo Diesel delivers an eye-popping 900 lb-ft of torque, and the Ram 3500 can tow more than 31,000 pounds. For fans of gasoline engines, the 6.4L HEMI is a best-in-class engine.

Compact Pickups

The increasing power and towing capabilities of later model compact pickups make them an increasingly interesting option for the right buyers. This is a category that Nissan, Toyota and Honda have focused on for some time now. Not surprisingly, you’ll find the Nissan Frontier, Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline dominating the top ten spots on the U.S. News ranking of the top compact pickups under $20,000.

However, the Dodge Dakota does make the list as well, tied for #8. In the $20,000+ category, the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado make a strong showing, and you’ll often find excellent pre-owned versions priced well below the $20k mark.

Call or visit today!

The [insert name of auto sales shop] is your source for some of the best pre-owned trucks. We also offer an excellent selection of certified pre-owned (CPO) trucks with extended warranties.

Visit us today, or call us to schedule a test drive. You’ll receive prompt, professional and friendly assistance from start to finish!

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Unfortunately, with the wealth of safety options now available, many people struggle to know which features are worth the extra cost. If you have plans to buy a new car, but would like to learn more about the features available today, keep reading. This article takes a closer look at three of the most useful safety features to invest in.

Forward-Collision Warning Sensors

When it comes to safe driving, a common rule holds that, for every ten miles per hour of speed, you should maintain one car length of distance between you and the next car. In other words, a car traveling at 50 mph should maintain a gap of five full car lengths. Unfortunately, judging such distances can be difficult, especially when traveling in heavy traffic.

As a result, rear-end collisions rank among the most common types of automotive accidents, accounting for a whopping 28% of all crashes. In the majority of cases, rear-end collisions stem from misjudgments about the speed and intentions of the car in front of you. Simple lapses in attention can also make it difficult to react to sudden changes on the part of other drivers.

For that reason, manufacturers are increasingly offering forward-collision warning systems in their cars. These systems use multiple radar sensors on the front of your car to monitor your car’s distance from objects in the road, whether cars, cyclists, pedestrians, or animals. Warning lights mounted on your dash change colors as distance decreases and danger increases.

The most cutting-edge forward-collision warning systems even include automatic braking components. Such an automatic braking feature allows your car to independently apply the brakes if it detects that your current speed will result in a collision. This can prevent — or at least decrease the severity of — accidents.

Active Blind Spot Monitors 

Another common source of roadway collisions involves the inability of a driver to see cars in their side view mirrors’ blind spots. Blind spots represent a serious risk when it comes to changing lanes. In that case, drivers may think they have a safe lane to enter, when it fact a car is actively passing them.

Traditionally, drivers had to crane their necks to look back over their shoulder in order to spot cars in their blind spot. Now, however, many manufacturers offer active blind spot monitors that can accomplish the same task. These monitors use either cameras or electromagnetic waves to supply the computer with data about the blind spot.

If the monitor detects a car in your blind spot, it triggers a light at your periphery — usually somewhere near the mirror itself. In addition, many blind spot monitors also produce an audible sound to warn you that now is not a safe time for changing lanes.

Backup Camera

Blind spots aren’t the only source of danger that a special camera system can help monitor. Another preventable source of accidents involves cars striking people or objects as they back out of parking spaces. Studies estimate that as many as 15,000 people suffer injuries every year as the result of backover crashes.

In recognition of this sobering fact, the federal government recently introduced legislation requiring that all new cars, trucks, and buses under 10,000 pounds in weight contain a backup camera and view screen. Such a system allows you to see what lies behind your car, often providing warning lines to show how close you can get before striking an object as you back out.

The post 3 Key Safety Features to Look for in a New Car appeared first on Verblio.

Tip One: Always wear your seat belt.

You would think that this one would go without saying. Unfortunately, an insurance study as recent as 2010 reports that only 86% of truck drivers claim to wear their seat belts “often.” The matter becomes especially serious if you consider that motor vehicle crashes were the leading cause of occupational fatalities in the United States in 2012, accounting for 25% of deaths. Truck drivers accounted for 46% of those deaths.

So buckle up.

Tip Two: Always inspect your vehicle before getting behind the wheel.

A visual inspection at the very least will alert you to any major issues, but it’s also wise to check your tire pressure, especially if you’re dealing with truck tires or experiencing shifts in weather. Tire pressure is directly related to temperature, so the colder the weather shift, the greater the chance for a drop in tire pressure. Low tire pressure can result not only in decreased gas mileage, but also increased risk of a blowout.

So it’s best to keep your eye on the gauge.

Tip Three: Drive defensively.

Follow posted speed limits, keep space between yourself and the cars head of you, and check your mirrors constantly. Don’t assume that drivers around you will always drive as well as you do, and be ready to adjust to their aberrations.

Always remember that you’re not just looking out for yourself; you’re also looking out for the safety of others.

The post 3 Tips to Keep Safe on the Road and Maximize the Value of Your Time appeared first on Verblio.

The Subura Impreza got the award for the Top Compact Car. The Consumer Reports review of the Impreza said:

“The Impreza’s interior packaging is outstanding, especially when you put friends (who you want to remain your friends) in the backseat… The ride is more comfortable than in some pricier cars.”

The Subaru Legacy received the award for the Top Midsized Sedan and got a score of 89 out of 100. The Forester took the award for the best Small SUV and received a five out of five on reliability. Of course, there are many other great vehicles created by Subaru. For example, although the Outlander did not get a vehicle category award from Consumer Reports, it got U.S. News and World Reports’ 2015 Best Wagon for the Money and Best Wagon for Families Awards. Subaru as a whole was also given Kelley Blue Book’s 2015 5-Year Cost-to-Own Award for Best Brand as well as their 2015 Resale Value Award for Best Brand.

Of course, we do not expect you to just trust other people’s opinions about the top vehicles. We want you to test-drive a Subaru to see for yourself why so many people love them. As the top Subaru dealer in the area, we encourage you to visit our dealership so we can help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs.

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