SEPTEMBER 21, 2016

Editor-In-Chief's Note: Apple is in talks to either partner with or buy McLaren outright, according to several reports. I expect the latter, actually. Stunning news, but what does it all mean? A giant "we'll see." (And just like that, late this afternoon McLaren has denied that there any talks going on.) -PMD

(Chevrolet)
Last week, Chevrolet announced that the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt will have an EPA-estimated range of 238 miles. This week, Chevrolet has announced that the Bolt will have a base MSRP of $37,495 including destination charge. Depending on individual tax situations, according to Chevrolet, customers may receive an available federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for a net value of $29,995. The LT trim starts at $37,495 and comes with standard features that include, among others, Regen on Demand™ steering wheel paddle, rear vision camera, 10.2-inch diagonal color touch screen and MICHELIN™ Self-sealing tires (in certain circumstances). The top trim level is the Premier, which includes all LT equipment plus additional standard features such as leather-appointed seats, front and rear heated seats, surround camera and rear camera mirror. The Bolt EV will be available at select dealerships in late 2016. Editor-In-Chief's Note: The new Bolt is our early contender for Car of the Year, for a number of reasons. With value and range, I predict that the Bolt will be the all-electric car that finally breaks through with the mainstream public. -PMD

(BMW)
BMW of North America is announcing the return of BMW Films with “The Escape,” a short film from Academy Award® nominated director Neill Blomkamp (“District 9,” “Elysium”) featuring original BMW Films star and Oscar® nominated actor Clive Owen (“Closer,” “Children of Men”), who reprises his role as The Driver. “The Escape” - presented as an homage to the 15th anniversary of the original BMW Film series - also stars Dakota Fanning (“War of the Worlds,” “I am Sam”), Jon Bernthal (“The Punisher,” “Daredevil,” above) and Oscar® nominee Vera Farmiga (“The Departed,” “Up in the Air”). “The Escape” will premiere on Sunday, October 23, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. EST on BMWFilms.com.

(BMW)
MINI USA has introduced the new 2017 MINI John Cooper Works Clubman. Powered by the BMW Group's 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine producing 228HP and 258 lb-ft of torque, it also features the ALL4 all-wheel drive system. Other stuff? A sport exhaust system, updated suspension technology and Brembo brakes. 0-60 mph takes six seconds with both the standard 6-speed manual transmission and the optional 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission. A Launch Control function is also part of the package. The 2017 MINI John Cooper Works Clubman will hit U.S. dealers in December.

(Chevrolet)
This is the all-new 2018 Equinox. It is lighter (by 400 pounds); the available AWD system is "switchable" to disconnect the rear axle when not needed for enhanced efficiency; it features a unique kneeling rear seat that enables a flat rear load floor and up to 63.5 cubic feet (1,798 liters) of maximum cargo space; it offers three new turbocharged engines, including a 1.5L turbo, a 2.0L turbo — matched with GM’s new nine-speed automatic transmission — and a segment-exclusive 1.6L turbo-diesel; and it's better looking. It will be available in the first quarter of 2017 in North America. Big deal? Well, actually, yes. The Equinox is Chevrolet’s second-best retail selling vehicle, after the Silverado.