Archive for January, 2018
If there is an automotive analogy to the concept of a shadow government, it’s the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). Although there’s nothing actually shadowy about the group, its members do establish a considerable number of standards and general guidelines by which the industry regulates and organizes itself. The SAE does this while having no direct relationship with any car manufacturer or the government.

2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio in Trofeo White (a $2200 option)
2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio RWD
Class: Premium Compact Car
Miles driven: 267
Fuel used: 14.2 gallons
Review Flashback! 1989 Yugo GVX

1989 Yugo GVX
Even folks with just a passing interest in comedy know that there are dozens of punch-line responses to the classic prompt, “Waiter, there’s a fly in my soup!” My new favorite is, “That’s possible–the chef used to be a tailor.”
First Spin: 2019 Jeep Cherokee

2019 Jeep Cherokee
With the automotive market making a tsunami-like shift to SUVs, Jeep has found itself in an enviable position.
The Pontiacs of 1990

Pontiac Sunfire Concept
The very last Pontiacs were sold as 2010 models, though production of all Pontiac models had ceased by late 2009. The demise of General Motors’ “performance division” was certainly a sad affair, but truth be told, the brand had become largely unrecognizable to many marque enthusiasts. With a largely alphanumeric naming scheme and an intentionally toned-down design theme meant to attract Japanese-car intenders, the Pontiac of the 21st century bore little resemblance to the nameplate once known for Wide Track design and the GTO.

2018 Honda Accord Touring 2.0T in Kona Coffee Metallic
2018 Honda Accord Touring 2.0T
Class: Midsize Car
Miles driven: 679
Fuel used: 26.3 gallons

2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE in Byron Blue (a $610 option)
2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar R-Dynamic HSE
Class: Premium Compact Crossover
Miles driven: 221
Fuel used: 12.3 gallons
What Was The GMC MotorHome?

GMC MotorHome
In the large motorhome biz, it is customary for a coachbuilder to purchase a basic chassis and powertrain from a truck maker, and then assemble its end product on that procured rolling framework. That’s how big-name motorhome companies such as Winnebago and Holiday Rambler do it.
What Was Sterling?

Sterling was the American arm of England’s Rover Group. Seen here are a 1990 827 SL (foreground) and 827 SLi.
If you’re relatively new to driving, there’s a good chance you’ve never heard of Sterling. If you’re older and have been looking at the cars around you for a while now, there’s a good chance you’ve simply forgotten that this short-lived brand ever existed. Because, odds are, you’ve never actually seen a Sterling.