AUTO SLEUTH
Upcoming new and redesigned models from Volkswagen
The Sonata hits a new note: The Spy Guy’s sources have supplied him with intel and images regarding Hyundai’s mid-size sedan that will undergo some revisions for the 2018 model year. Clearly in evidence is an all-new front end with a much larger hexagonal grille (much like the current compact Elantra) and side air-intake/foglight pods. The revised interior will get a larger touchscreen plus revised seats, steering wheel and floor console. There are no planned changes to the three available four-cylinder powerplants, but an eight-speed automatic transmission will take over shifting duties from the current six-speed.
A shifting dilemma: The Sleuth has noticed that a growing number of models have abandoned the traditional automatic-transmission floor shifter for an electronic rotary knob or dash-mounted push buttons. Although the alternatives free up console space for more cup holders or larger storage space, Consumer Reports magazine claims that many buyers aren’t crazy about these alternatives as there have been accidents and injuries, some serious. As a result, editors of the influential publication will deduct points from their test scores for cars that come equipped with such shifting devices. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is being investigated by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for its faulty shifters and the company is reportedly considering a return to the long-handle versions.
A new Toyota Corolla is in the works: According to The Sleuth’s sources, the latest version of the world’s most enduring automobile brand is now at the test“mule” stage and is slated to arrive for the 2019 model year. Word has it that the compact sedan will grow slightly in size and will get the same 144-horsepower 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine as the upcoming CH-R hatchback (the Corolla’s current 1.8-litre four-cylin-
der makes 132 horses). The Corolla will also use the same all-new and more rigid platform as the CH-R. Also rumoured to be joining the sedan is a hatchback version — likely replacing the wagon-ish iM — that will allow the Corolla to more effectively compete with the Honda Civic, five-door Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback and others.
The Arteon of the deal: The Sneaky One is more than a little impressed by the rate of change going on at Volkswagen. Instead of skulking away with its tail between its legs following the recent diesel-engine-emissions cheating scandal, the automaker continues to show upcoming new and redesigned models, including the seven-passenger 2018 Atlas wagon, new extendedlength Tiguan and the I.D. Buzz concept van. Now you can add the Arteon fastback sedan to the list. The Arteon will eventually replace the similar-looking CC and might still use that handle when it arrives in North America by mid-2018 as a 2019 model. One thing for sure is that the sleek-looking four-door will be a lot roomier and will have a turbocharged four-cylinder or optional V-6 under the hood. Both will be linked to seven-speed automated manual transmissions.