2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 AWD: An All-New Redesign

Highlight: The GLE 350 is now available with an optional third row seat.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $83,990 (Base Non AWD Model: $54,695)

Seating Capacity: 5 to 7

Standard Safety Features: airbags; a collision preventive assist system; a trailer stability assist system; an electronic brake hold feature; a tire pressure monitoring system; a parking assist system; an electronic blindspot  system; a crosswind assist system; a tire pressure monitoring system; a brake hold feature; and a rearview camera  

Standard Equipment: 19-inch wheels; a 9-speed automatic turbo transmission; rear wheel drive; LED headlights; LED tail lamps; an engine start/stop system; a drive mode select system; a keyless entry system; a dual zone automatic climate control system; leather-like seats; heated front seats; power front seats with driver’s memory; a handsfree power lift gate; a 12-inch digital instrument cluster; a navigation system; a touch pad controller; a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel; power folding side mirrors; a power sunroof; aluminum roof rails; and a retractable luggage cover

Its Shop Time Mondays: Toyota Is Recalling 266,000 Prius Cars

Hybrid System may Shutdown and cause Stall

An unexpected hybrid power system shut down may increase the risk of a crash.

NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V369000

Manufacturer Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Components HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM

Potential Number of Units Affected 266,638

2020 Lexus LC 500: The Brand's Luxury Performance Flagship Coupe

Highlight: A stylish LC 500 convertible is headed to dealerships this summer as a 2021 model.   

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $106,440 (Base Model: $93,975)

Seating Capacity: 2 (2 extremely small kids in the rear)

Standard Safety Features: ABS; airbags; a back up camera; heated dimming exterior mirrors; a tire pressure monitoring system; a pre-collision system with pedestrian protection; an all speed radar activated cruise control system; automatic high beam headlights; a blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert; a lane keep assist system; a lane departure alert system with steering assist; a traction control system; a vehicle stability system; an automatic locking retractor; a first aid kit; and an emergency locking rectractor

2020 Hyundai Kona Ultimate: The Korean Brand’s Entry-Level Compact Crossover

Highlight: The Kona is available in all-electric configuration.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $28,980 (Base model: $20,840)

Seating Capacity: 4 (super tight fit in the back seat)

Standard Safety Features:  ABS; airbags; a tire pressure monitoring system; automatic headlights; a blind spot driver’s mirror; a downhill brake control; a hillstart assist control; a forward collision assist system; a lane keep assist system; a backup camera; a remote keyless entry system; stability control system; a traction control system; and a compact spare tire

Its Shop Time Mondays: Jeep Is Recalling 67,000 Cherokees For Possibly Rolling Away

Power Transfer Unit Input Splines May Break

A loss of drive can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning. A loss of the Park function can cause unintended vehicle rollaway which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V343000

Manufacturer Chrysler (FCA US LLC)

Components POWER TRAIN

Potential Number of Units Affected 67,248

2020 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison Crew Cab 4WD Diesel

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $54,580

Seating Capacity: 2 (2 in rear if legroom isn’t important)

Standard Safety Features: ABS; airbags; traction control system; a back up camera; LED daytime running lights; a stability control system; a rollover mitigation system; a trailer sway system; and a tire pressure monitoring system

Standard Equipment (ZR2 Bison): 17-inch wheels;4x4; locking tailgate; two-tier loading; tie-down locations in the bed; remote keyless entry system; remote vehicle start; embroidered headrests; a tilt/telescopic steering wheel; a single zone automated a/c system; a siding rear windows (manual); rear seat under seat storage; a folding rear bench seat; heated front seats; front and rear floor liners; heated steering wheel; built-in Wi-Fi; wireless smartphone charging; four USB data ports; an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system; a modified rear axle with 3.42 ratio; front and rear electric locking differential; cast iron control arms for exceptional strength; an aggressive design grille; a multi-matic dynamic suspension; suspension lifted 2-inches higher; fuel tank skid plates; transfer case skid plate; and a rear differential skid plate

2020 Lexus RC F: The Brand’s BMW M Series Fighter Coupe

Highlight: The RC F is outfitted with an active rear spoiler just like one would find on performance cars from Audi and Porsche.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $78,849 (Base Model: $65,925)

Seating Capacity: 4 (2 small kids in the rear)

Its Shop Time Mondays: Ford Is Recalling Over 2.4 Million Vehicles

1. Doors May Open While Driving

A door that is not securely latched could open while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V331000

Manufacturer Ford Motor Company

Components LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

Potential Number of Units Affected 2,147,323

An Industry I Have Given My Life To Has Gone Silent Like A Hybrid

This is the paint job of NASCAR's only Black fulltime driver Bubba Wallace, Jr., official Black Lives Matter car, after the sport agreed to ban the Confederate flag.

Dear Automotive Community,

Over the past few weeks, America has been dealt a triple whammy. Our country has had to manage COVID-19, the recession and the recent racial injustices that can no longer be ignored. As Americans, we are no longer in a position to lecture other countries about their human rights injustices, when this country has literally turned a blind eye to the Black community, more specifically Black men who look like me.

The industry, which I have invested my life in, has literally switched into hybrid mode - being as silent as a mouse. Unlike with COVID-19, almost every automaker wanted to show the world how they were committed to fight the virus. Most automakers adjusted their advertising to reflect the mood of America, while others offered 'Car Mortgages' and deferred payments to let Americans know, as many were sheltered in place, and unable to work, sending the message we are here for you. Some car companies converted segments of their manufacturing plant to build ventilators, while others lent out vehicles to essential workers. The automotive community showed their compassionate side, as well as their financial commitments.