Issue 1244
April 24, 2024
 

About The Autoextremist

@PeterMDeLorenzo

Author, commentator, "The Consigliere."

Editor-in-Chief of Autoextremist.com.

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Tuesday
Sep112018

SEPTEMBER 12, 2018

(Mercedes-Benz)
The new Mercedes-Benz GLE is here! 
The new Mercedes-Benz GLE is here! Stuff? E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL is a 48-volt active suspension system and "a world first"; Active Stop-and-Go Assist; more room inside with a third row seat available on request. More? Larger screens for the infotainment system, a full-color head-up display with a resolution of 720 x 240 pixels and the new MBUX Interior Assistant, which can recognize hand and arm movements and supports operating intentions. Um, sure. Mercedes PR minions say that, "The exterior design not only exudes presence and power, but also sets a new standard for aerodynamics in the SUV segment." Sure, we can see that. Not. The 2020 GLE will receive a new range of engines and a new 4MATIC system and it will make its debut at the Paris Motor Show in October. It goes on sale in the U.S. sometime in 2019. We can wait.
(Lexus images)
Lexus has introduced the 2019 UX with
 "compelling Creative Urban Explorer design," or so they say. This new entry-level Lexus will be available in a gasoline version - UX 200 starting at $32,000 - and hybrid UX 250h with AWD (for $2,000 more). The UX will be in dealerships in December 2018, and the the UX 250h will follow in January 2019. The UX name is derived from the design team’s guiding concept and describes the vehicle’s mission: Urban + X-over (crossover) = UX. Funny, we thought it stood for UltimateXylophone.
(VW images)
Volkswagen of America, Inc. will end production of the Beetle in 2019. Two special models will join the lineup for its last model year — Final Edition SE and Final Edition SEL. Available in coupe and convertible body styles, the Final Edition models include exclusive equipment and unique upscale décor elements designed to send the Beetle off in style. Models also draw inspiration from the first-generation Beetle’s final run in Mexico, where the vehicle is assembled. The 2003 Última Edición (last edition) models were only available in two colors — beige and light blue. Today’s Final Edition models will feature two unique colors: Safari Uni — a reinvention of Harvest Moon Beige, a color from the New Beetle — and Stonewashed Blue, a nod to the 1970 Jeans Bug and most recently seen on the 2016 Beetle Denim. Final Edition models will also be available in Pure White, Deep Black Pearl, and Platinum Grey. Convertible Final Edition SEL models in every exterior color except Safari Uni are available with a unique Brown soft top. Pricing for the 2019 Beetle Final Edition coupe starts at $23,045 for SE models and $25,995 for SEL models. Beetle Convertible Final Edition pricing starts at $27,295 for SE models and $29,995 for SEL models. The destination charge for all Beetle models is an additional $895.
The 2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Final Edition interior.

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