NOVEMBER 20, 2017

Infiniti’s Variable-Compression Engine Packs Punch

Modifying the compression ratio of a running engine sounds like a recipe for disaster, but after driving Nissan’s variable-compression 4-cyl. we can attest it’s ready for production.

Kiekert Proposes ‘Smart Doors’ to Eliminate Dings

The supplier’s latest iteration of the e-release latch is a first step toward autonomy. NuEntry-Latch eliminates the need for exterior door handles, which reduces weight and locking system complexity.

2017 Wards 10 Best UX Quick Hits

A summation of all 23 vehicles evaluated as part of the 2017 Wards 10 Best User Experiences competition. Many of these comments are taken directly from score sheets submitted by WardsAuto editors. Prices listed are sticker, as tested.

At Age 41, Honda Accord Looks, Feels and Drives Great

Test Drive
You could say it should be good after 10 shots at it. But that would be cynical. And unfair, because the Accord just keeps getting better.

Hyundai Packs More Into Accent

Test Drive
Hyundai says relatively basic vehicles are an important entry point into a brand for many buyers, helping build loyalty as well as being an alternative to a used car.

Volvo’s Natural-Born Racing Engine

Story Behind 2017 10 Best Engines
Boasting an eye-popping 184 hp/L, Volvo’s turbocharged and supercharged 4-cyl. Polestar started life as a racing engine before it found its way into family haulers.

VW Updates Infotainment Amid U.S. Sales Hot Streak

The refreshed Golf is the latest of VW’s U.S. models to get updated infotainment, while the brand’s U.S. sales are recovering from Dieselgate.

Mazda’s Innovative 4-Cyl. Engine Pulls Like Big V-6

Story Behind 2017 Wards 10 Best Engines
Mazda’s Skyactiv-G 2.5T is unique in that its enhanced scavenging technology and cooled EGR make it a new type of downsized turbocharged engine that performs like a torquey V-6.

Hydrogen Retailer Says Sales Surpass 250,000 Kg

The True Zero stations plus 13 others make up a total of 31 stations open across California thanks to more than $50 million in California Energy Commission grant funding and the state’s commitment to zero-emissions vehicles.

Hyundai Launching Eight CUVs in U.S. by 2020

Diesel and electric CUVs are part of a group of new or redesigned models coming in the next few years. The automaker also is considering switching back to port fuel injection in its engines, due to particulate issues inherent with direct injection.

Altran Opens Passive-Safety Center in Michigan

Passive-safety features will carry over from today’s cars to the self-driving vehicles of the future, says Keith Williams, Altran’s group chief technology officer.

BMW Unleashes 453-hp Limited-Edition M3 CS Sedan

Building on the developments already brought to the M3 Competition Package, the M3 CS adopts a number of lightweight body components in line with the approach taken with the M4 CS.