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Toyota C-HR Gets Tech+Styling Upgrades and a New Grade Strategy for 2019

Stylish, athletic and filled with technology like Toyota Safety Sense P™ (TSS-P), the 2019 Toyota C-HR is the Coupe High-Rider, still representing a leap forward in design, manufacturing and engineering for Toyota. Across all grades, new tech features are included for 2019, as all C-HR grades receive an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® connectivity as standard. New Grade Strategy for 2019 Now available with a new grade strategy for 2019, the C-HR is available in three grades: LE, XLE and Limited (removing XLE Premium grade from 2018.) LE is equipped with 17-inch steel wheels and LED DRLs with halogen headlamps as well as a polyurethane steering wheel. For the XLE grade, standard features now include Blind Spot Monitor + Rear Cross Traffic Alert, auto-folding side mirrors, “Toyota C-HR” puddle lamps, piano black upper console and switch base, Smart Key with push button start, and available features now include Entune 3.0 Audio Plus. For the Limited grade, standard features now include fog lamps, piano black B-pillar, “Limited” badging, rain-sensing wipers, Entune 3.0 Audio Plus, heated front seats, driver seat power lumbar, chrome window trim and leather-trimmed or leather-trimmed/fabric seats. New options for the Limited grade now include Entune 3.0 Premium Audio. more A Distinctive Design The iconic gemstone of the Toyota C-HR evokes universal notions of luxury, attractiveness, sophistication, and strength. At the C-HR’s nose, two slim projector-beam halogen headlights with LED daytime running lights (DRL) and auto-on/off activation wrap deep into its toned shoulders – nearly all the way into the front quarter panels. Because of this, the vehicle possesses an assertive fascia that’s uncommon in the segment. In fact, its dimensions – width (70.7 in.), height (61.6 in), length (171.2 in.), and wheelbase (103.9 in.) – can best be described as compact and neat. Its rear tracks match that of Toyota’s diehard sports car, 86, at 60.6 inches. Deep, curvy character lines emerge from a prominent Toyota badge that’s flanked by the headlamps and lead into the narrower core body. They run below the windows and continue above the rear wheel where they marry to a high beltline and distinctive C-pillar with hidden-type design door handles. The rear is a cohesive balance of its elaborate lines and 3D shapes. The tail lamps protrude outward and the hatchback –outfitted with a lip spoiler and functional color-matched cantilevered wing– tapers neatly inboard. Toyota’s aerodynamicists pulled no punches when honing the C-HR’s 0.34 coefficient of drag. Canards on the rear quarter panels, front and rear spats, a streamlined rear lower bumper, and stabilizing fins integrated into the taillights all manage critical airflow in and around the body. Underneath, a bevy of rigid covers – on the engine, floor, fuel tank, and aft of the rear wheels – cull turbulence and, in doing so, help enhance vehicle control and fuel efficiency. At the rear, its aerodynamic details continue: the lower arms of the multi-link rear suspension have a streamlined edge. As one can imagine, the exterior color options are plentiful for C-HR. Standard color options include Blue Eclipse Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, Silver Knockout Metallic, and all-new-for-Toyota, Blue Flame (Radiant Green Mica discontinued.) Available colors include Ruby Flare Pearl and Blizzard Pearl. For a bigger dose of individuality, the C-HR can be outfitted in R-Code, a special paintjob that pairs body color with either a black or white-painted roof (white R-code roof option only comes with Blue Eclipse Metallic), side mirrors and A-pillar for a truly custom look. Additionally, for 2019, the R-code black roof is now available with Silver Knockout Metallic, Blizzard Pearl, Ruby Flare Pearl, and Blue Flame. Compact Punch The C-HR’s engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder dual-overhead cam producing 144 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 139 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm, sends all power to the front wheels via the Continuously Variable Transmission with intelligence and Shift mode (CVTi-S). The engine employs many of Toyota’s latest generation of technologies, including Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and Valvematic, both of which have received extensive optimization to enhance fuel economy and smooth operation. Valvematic offers a broader range of continuously variable valve timing (lift and phasing) to provide optimal intake valve (not on exhaust side) operation relative to engine demands. Furthermore, to reduce exhaust emissions, the catalyst is warmed earlier during the engine’s ignition cycle. Both models have EPA-estimates of 27/city, 31/highway and 29/combined miles-per-gallon. The CVTi-S received much attention by engineers and utilizes redesigned pulleys to enhance acceleration and fuel economy; a new belt structure to reduce cabin noise; and a coaxial two-port oil pump system that allows for continuous oil pressure modifications in various driving conditions. A Preload Differential helps to distribute torque between the left and right wheels during low-speed operation to make for easier, composed driving. Of course, drivers and passengers will welcome the powertrain’s well-sorted nature, but they’ll love Sport mode and the simulated 7-speed Sequential Shiftmatic. Engaging Sport mode via the multi-information display (MID) increases the responsiveness of the throttle, quickens the CVT’s automatic artificial “step-up” shifts, and maintains high engine speed to enhance acceleration. The electronic power steering (EPS) systems’ feedback is weightier for a more confidence-inspiring feel. Pushing the gearshift over to the left while in Drive engages Sequential Shiftmatic, and lets drivers shift simulated gears at their convenience. “MeZONE”-Designed Cabin The C-HR offers a modern and uncluttered interior with a keen placement of accents and a driver-centric “MeZONE” orientation. Along with the soft-touch materials covering surfaces throughout, the diamond pattern influences the designs of the dual-zone climate controls, speaker surrounds and black headliner above the front passengers. Updates for 2019 include an available gray fabric for XLE grade and a black leather or brown leather/fabric combination for the Limited grade. Together with slim A-pillars, the angled dashboard and amenity controls allow for the driver to have a clear view of the road ahead and intuitive access to instrumentation. The 8-inch audio display is positioned centrally atop the dash, rather than in it, to help reduce drivers’ eye movements. An informative twin-ring gauge cluster resides behind the leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel. The tilt/telescoping wheel is reminiscent of a sports car’s easy-to-grip helm. The satin-plated shift knob exudes a high-quality feeling, and once in-hand, has a solid shift movement. A bright 4.2-inch color Multi-Information Display (MID) sits between the twin-ring cluster and shows odometer, SPORT and ECO modes, outside temperature, fuel economy and trip information, fuel economy history, G-force monitor, and much more. Key LE standard features include all-black appointments; Remote Keyless Entry System, urethane tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio, Multi-Information Display, Bluetooth® hands-free phone, voice-command, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with steering assist and trip controls; Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Automatic High Beams; leather-trimmed shift lever with satin-plated shift knob; Sport fabric-trimmed front bucket seats; 6-way adjustable driver's seat with sport bolsters; 6-way adjustable front passenger seat with sport bolsters; 3-passenger rear seating with fabric-trimmed 60/40 split fold-flat second-row rear seat with adjustable headrests and center armrest with 12V power outlet. XLE and Limited Grades add a leather-trimmed tilt/telescopic steering wheel; Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Smart Key System with Push Button Start. All models are equipped with a six-speaker AM/FM/HD Radio™, Aha™ app, USB 2.0 port with iPod® connectivity and control, Apple CarPlay® connectivity; AUX audio jack, Bluetooth® wireless connectivity, and Voice Recognition with voice training. The C-HR offers a convenience feature called Brake Hold Function. This feature is designed to maintain braking force on all four wheels to keep the vehicle stationary when at a full stop. As a result, the vehicle will remain still even if the driver reduces the pressure on the brake pedal. Once the driver depresses the accelerator, brake pressure will release, and the vehicle will move forward. Bolstered bucket seats help to keep passengers snug and comfortable. All passengers will appreciate the generous amount of small item storage space (sculpted in-door pockets) and cup holders (two front cup holders; two front, two rear bottle holders). Designers used scalloped seatbacks, foot well cubbies carved below the front seats, and a chamfered headliner to create a spacious backseat environment. Sound insulating materials placed on the carpet, headliner, A-pillars, and door trim help to keep unwanted noises out and the good chats in. For extra cargo carrying versatility, the rear 60/40 seat can split and fold flat, and, when in an upright position, can easily accommodate child seats with its LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system. Seatback lock releases are positioned at shoulder height, making it possible to fold seats without bending over. The rear seats are designed so that seatbelts do not interfere when folding the seats. As an added bonus in the cargo area is a hidden storage compartment located in the sidewall to store small items, as well as compartments below the deck board. Everything in the trunk is concealed by a standard cargo cover. Impressive Ride Comfort The Toyota C-HR scores high on style points, but it is also a hit when it comes to thrilling fun and impressive ride comfort. The C-HR’s adaptable Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) C-platform allows for on-road nimbleness and ride quality. The TNGA C-platform – with an inherent low center-of-gravity, high strength, and low weight – benefits from extra rigidity through added spot welding, gussets, braces, and adhesives in and on key connection structures. The MacPherson strut front suspension has angled strut bearings and a large diameter stabilizer bar to help the C-HR’s front end respond quickly and precisely at initial corner turn-in. And at the rear, a multi-link rear suspension utilizes a 26-mm stabilizer bar with urethane upper supports. The material, together with an aluminum-cast upper support housing, aid in the dampers’ absorption efficiency and, therefore, greatly benefit passenger comfort, cabin quietness, and vehicle agility. Feeling connected to the road is characteristic of a sporty drive, and the C-HR delivers with its column-type Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system. As is the case with other EPS systems, a tilt of the steering wheel will return light feedback at low speeds, and at higher speeds, drivers will notice stronger feedback for increased confidence while behind the wheel. The C-HR’s steering system’s feel, however, relies on a highly rigid rack-and-pinion steering gearbox that is installed directly to the front suspension. Braking is handled brilliantly by a pairing of 11.7-inch front ventilated discs with 11.5-inch rear solid discs. State-of-the-Art Safety The C-HR comes equipped with standard Toyota Safety Sense P™ (TSS-P). TSS-P is a multi-feature advanced active safety suite that bundles Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection function (PCS w/PD) featuring forward collision warning and Automatic Emergency Braking; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist function (LDA w/SA); Automatic High Beams (AHB); and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD) uses a camera and radar to detect a vehicle or pedestrian ahead of the C-HR in certain conditions. When the system determines there is a possibility of collision, it prompts the driver to brake with an audio and visual alert. If the driver notices the hazard and brakes, the system may provide additional braking force using Brake Assist. If the driver fails to brake in a set time and the system determines that the risk of collision with a vehicle or pedestrian is extremely high, the system may automatically apply the brakes and reduce speed in order to help the driver avoid the collision or reduce the impact. Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist function uses an in-vehicle camera designed to detect visible white and yellow lane markers in front of the vehicle and the vehicle’s position on the road. If the system determines that the vehicle is starting to unintentionally deviate from its lane, the system alerts the driver with an audio and visual alert. When the alert occurs, the driver must check the surrounding road situation and carefully operate the steering wheel to move the vehicle back to the center part of its lane. In addition to the alert function of LDA, the C-HR will feature a Steering Assist function. If the system determines that the vehicle is on a path to unintentionally depart from its lane, the system may provide small corrective steering inputs to the steering wheel for a short period of time to help the driver keep the vehicle in its lane. On highways, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) functions similar to conventional “constant speed” cruise control in that it helps vehicles travel at a consistent speed set by the driver, but this system adds a vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode designed to assist the driver by adjusting vehicle speed to help maintain a pre-set distance to a preceding vehicle when the preceding vehicle is traveling at a lower speed. Once a vehicle speed is set by the driver, Full-Speed Range DRCC uses a front-grill mounted millimeter-wave radar and an in-vehicle camera designed to detect a preceding vehicle and help determine its distance. If the vehicle ahead is detected traveling at a speed slower than your set speed or within your distance range setting, the system is designed to automatically decelerate the vehicle without having to cancel the cruise control. When a greater reduction in vehicle speed is necessary, the system may apply the brakes and operate the vehicle brake lights. The system will then respond to changes in the speed of the vehicle ahead in order to help maintain the vehicle-to-vehicle distance set by the driver. When there is no longer a preceding vehicle driving slower than the vehicle’s set speed, the system accelerates until the set speed is reached and returns to the pre-set speed cruising. Full-Speed Range DRCC is designed to function at approximately 0 to 110 mph, and may enable low speed following, speed matching, stopping, and acceleration/deceleration to a preceding vehicle. Automatic High Beams (AHB) helps enhance forward visibility during nighttime driving. It uses a camera to detect the headlights of oncoming vehicles and the tail lights of vehicles ahead and then automatically switches between high beams and low beams so as not to distract other drivers. Complementing TSS-P are 10 standard airbags, standard Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) and rear backup camera, as well as available Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which are standard on the XLE and Limited models. Priced Right The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2019 C-HR will start at $20,995 MSRP for LE, $23,030 MSRP for XLE and $26,050 MSRP for the Limited grade. The MSRP for the C-HR does not include the delivery, processing, and handling (DPH) fee of $1,095. The DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary. Limited Warranty and Toyota Care Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. The C-HR also comes standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.

2019 Toyota Camry Builds on Exciting Style, Sport Performance, and Innovative Safety Tech with More Standard Equipment

The 2019 Toyota Camry, the best-selling car in America for the past 16 years, continues to build on its already thrilling style, performance, and innovative safety and technology. The continued excitement over the eighth-generation sedan is the result of its total evolution that first debuted last model year, from a proven, dependable and safe car to one that adds a more exciting and emotional character, thanks to its much talked about newfound performance and style. The Camry continues to utilize TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture), which represents a completely new strategy to the way the company designs, engineers, and packages its vehicles. TNGA retains all of Toyota’s traditional values of superlative build quality and safety while injecting a fun driving experience that plays on all the senses. The physical manifestation is the usage of its engine, transmission, and GA-K platform. more Design Backstory The Camry development team aimed for a styling design concept that achieves strong harmony between refinement and a sensual athletic image, creating a new approach to the market. The result is a signature design language that takes the car into a beautiful and futuristic new direction. There were three primary design goals when penning the Camry: a distinctive, low center of gravity that results in a firm wide stance; a practical-yet-emotionally styled cabin profile, and a sporty and upscale image both inside and out. These design goals have resulted in a type of sedan that’s both exciting to look at and, more importantly drive, reestablishing itself as the standard in the mid-size sedan category. An Exterior with Unexpected Attitude The Camry’s face is accentuated by a two-piece grille comprised of flowing thin and thick treatments – key elements of the Camry’s “Keen Look” design philosophy. The curvaceous 1.6-inch-lower aluminum hood sits neatly above the grille’s uppermost section which accommodates a commanding Toyota emblem. For the hybrid model, the emblem is tinged a distinct blue hue. This fashionable trifecta of grille, hood, and emblem blends flawlessly into the A-pillar, and produces a stance that is undoubtedly more aggressive than that of any predecessor. The 2019 Camry has an unchanged exterior. By lowering the hip points of the occupants over the previous generation (0.8-inches in the front and 1.2-inches at the rear), and therefore their seating positions, the design team was able to reduce the car’s overall vehicle height by approximately one inch and incorporate a lower roofline, without sacrificing interior space. This invited the designers to pursue a wind-cutting shape and improve aerodynamics. Striking character lines around and along the body augment the aggressive front and rear fenders, giving the reimagined Camry a sportiness that it’s never had. The hip point, shoulder line, roof line and hood height gives the Camry the appearance that it has a low center of gravity, which it does. The design team took full advantage of the TNGA platform’s versatility to create a very expressive sedan. They penned ground-hugging lines, and formed an energetic silhouette. Their efforts enhanced the Camry’s stance, which is now striking at all angles. Like the front, the rear features an athletic motif that melds flowing lines and complex shapes to form a sculpted landscape. Looking closely at the C-pillar’s detail reveals a multitude of surfaces that reflect light from all angles. A distinct crease extends from the slim multicolor taillights down to the bumper, effectively “pushing” the wheels outward in appearance to create a wide posture akin to that of a premium sports sedan. The exclamation point here is provided by the “C A M R Y” badge that gives the car an upscale identity. Camry is available in five grades: L, LE, XLE, SE, and XSE. The sportier SE and XSE grades wear a noticeably different body style than the entry level L and LE, and premium XLE grades, highlighted by a sculpted rocker panel, 19-inch black machined-finish alloy wheels (standard on XSE) a subtle rear spoiler lip, aggressive front bumper, and rear bumper with a lower diffuser. The face is much more distinctive with large side intakes flanking the lower bumper’s unique “Catamaran-inspired” accents, a high and slim upper intake encompassing the central Toyota badge, and a powerfully expressive gloss black mesh grille. A unique rear bumper with distinctive corner lines highlight the changes at the rear. Smoke-tinted rear combination lamps are available on the XSE grade. Designers sought to make the Camry sport grades instantly recognizable and appear different from the other models from as far as 200 yards away. Click here to read the full article.

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Happy St. Patrick’s Day from all of us at Passport Auto Group

Thank you for making us feel so Lucky and best wishes for a Happy St. Patrick's Day!

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Can Passport Collision Center repair the peeling paint on your vehicle?

Can peeling paint be repaired on a vehicle? Peeling paint in also know as delimitation on a vehicle and is caused by a lot of time in direct sunlight. Passport Collision Center is able to get your vehicle back to its original shape. Consider the following when deciding which way to go when having your vehicle repainted. Is the area that has started peeling deep? If the paint beneath the clear coat is peeling there is more of a serious problem. if this problem is occurring you should immediately have the affected area painted. more Is the peeling widespread? If the affected area is no bigger than a coin it is able to be spot painted. If there are several different areas on your vehicle that are peeling than it is better to have the entire vehicle body repainted so that the paint matches. Paint repair is performed at our Passport Collision Center body shop using the water-based Waterborne Color System, which keeps organic solvent emissions low. This innovative painting system ensures a superb color match to the existing paint and a seamless finish to all surfaces. That's why all warranty-covered paint repairs use this system.

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No Payments for 3 months when you purchase a new 2018 or 2019 BMW at Passport BMW

90 Days to First Payment Imagine yourself driving in a new 2018 or 2019 BMW and making no payments for 3 months! Enjoy credits up to $4,500 and financing rates of 2.89% with terms up to 60 months.

BMW 2020

The first-ever 2020 BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M

BMW introduces the newest vehicles to join the exclusive BMW M line-up; the first-ever 2020 BMW X3 M Sports Activity Vehicle and the first-ever 2020 BMW X4 M Sports Activity Coupe. Powered by the high-revving, 473 hp S58 3.0 liter 6-cylinder M TwinPower Turbo engine, the newest M SAV variants are built with more than 40 years of BMW M’s experience in developing high performance automobiles that are capable on both street and track. For those who want the ultimate in performance, both the X3 M and X4 M will be available in 503 hp Competition versions. The new M models will be built at Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina, the home of X vehicle competency for the BMW Group. Plant Spartanburg is the largest BMW production plant in the world, employing 11,000 people and is supported by 300 suppliers across the U.S. 70% of the vehicles produced at Plant Spartanburg are exported overseas making BMW the largest exporter of vehicles from the U.S. by value. more The latest M TwinPower Turbo engine technology. The new BMW M S58 six-cylinder in-line engine found under the hood of the first-ever X3 M and X4 M features a forged crankshaft allowing it to handle extremely high levels of torque. The forged crankshaft’s low weight and reduced rotating mass also allow the engine to rev to a 7,200 rpm redline. The closed-deck design of the six-cylinder engine’s block ensures it is incredibly rigid, paving the way for higher combustion pressure and increased power. The wire-arc sprayed-on iron coating for the cylinder walls reduces both engine weight and frictional losses. In addition, the cylinder head has a core manufactured using 3D printing. This additive manufacturing process enables geometric forms to be created that are beyond the capability of conventional metal casting techniques. 3D printing technology has cut the weight of the new engine’s cylinder head core and allows its coolant ducts to be routed in a way that optimizes temperature management. This latest incarnation of M TwinPower Turbo technology features two mono-scroll turbochargers, which supply compressed air to cylinders 1 – 3 and 4 – 6 respectively. The engine’s power output is enhanced through the use of upgraded turbo compressor wheels and a water-to-air intercooler. A flow-optimized air intake system reduces pressure losses, while an electronically controlled wastegate enhances turbo response. High Precision Injection technology raises maximum fuel injection pressure from 200 bar to 350 bar, enabling extremely efficient mixing of fuel and air. The fine atomization of the fuel in the combustion chambers reduces emissions, especially under full acceleration loads and at high speeds. The engine technology is rounded off by VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. The six-cylinder in-line engine in the first-ever X3 M and X4 M produces its peak torque of 442 lb.-ft. between 2,600 and 5,600 rpm and between 2,600 and 5,950 rpm in the BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition models. It generates maximum horsepower output at 6,250 rpm and sustains its potent power delivery until the 7,200 rpm red line. The BMW X3 M and BMW X4 M accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, while the Competition models hit the 60 mph mark in 4.0 seconds. The top speed of all models is electronically limited to 155 mph. If the optional M Driver’s Package is specified, the limit rises to 174 mph for the X3 M and X4 M and up to 177 mph for the Competition models. Cooling systems and oil supply developed from motorsports. The new six-cylinder in-line engine’s track-tested cooling system has been designed to work with its increased levels of performance and includes one large central radiator and two smaller radiators positioned on either side of it. The system also includes an additional engine oil cooler and a separate transmission oil cooler. This sophisticated system ensures that optimum operating temperatures are maintained at all times, both in everyday use on short urban journeys and during track use. The motor sport expertise amassed by BMW M GmbH also makes its presence felt in the design of the oil supply system, which is required to meet the challenges of track driving. The engine’s lightweight oil sump has two separate chambers and an integrated suction channel. An additional suction stage allows the map-controlled oil pump to draw lubricant from the smaller chamber, which steps in when extra flow is needed. This ensures a reliable supply of oil at all times, even under the most extreme lateral and longitudinal acceleration and braking forces. Dual exhaust system with electrically controlled flaps and four tailpipes. The exhaust system designed for the first-ever X3 M and X4 M not only delivers reduced backpressure but also a stirring soundtrack. The dual-branch pipework releases the exhaust gas – in customary M fashion – through two pairs of 100 millimeter tailpipes. Electrically controlled flaps help to produce the rich engine note for which BMW M cars are renowned. The nature of the soundtrack takes its cues from the selected engine mode; standard setting, SPORT or SPORT+. Standard specification for the Competition models includes the M Sport exhaust system, which gives the engine a pleasingly sonorous tone, especially when it is being pushed hard and at high revs. Its continuously variable exhaust flaps create a particularly broad range of sound. Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and three shift modes. The new, high-performance S58 engine is linked up with the latest version of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. As well as fully automated gear changes, the M Steptronic also enables manual shifts with sequential gear selection via either the gear selector lever or steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. The M Steptronic delivers instantaneous response and lightning-fast gear changes. The driver can use the gear selector lever’s Drivelogic switch to adjust the transmission’s shift characteristics in both automatic and manual modes. Drivelogic mode 1 aids relaxed driving with smooth gear changes, while switching to mode 2 increases the sport factor with shorter shift times. The third mode makes gear changes even faster and sharper. Here, the transmission holds the engine in its upper rev range, helping the driver to push the dynamic envelope and maximize the powertrain’s performance on the track. Click here to read the entire article.

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Happy Valentine’s Day From Passport Auto Group

Customers like you are the HEART of our BUSINESS! Thank you for your continued loyalty and support.

2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata Earns MotorWeek Drivers‘ Choice Award As Top Convertible For Second Consecutive Year

Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) announces the Mazda MX-5 Miata has won the 2019 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award for Best Convertible for the second consecutive year. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a symbol of Mazda’s car-making philosophy and tireless pursuit of driving pleasure. As a result of numerous changes, the 2019 MX-5 is quicker, more responsive and aims to be more engaging to drive, adhering to Mazda’s unique Jinba Ittai —“horse and rider as one”—engineering philosophy. For 2019, the MX-5 gains a new SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine, increasing the horsepower by 26 and further improving its performance, response, feel, and efficiency. Additionally, the MX-5 receives advanced safety features from Mazda’s i-ACTIVESENSE suite of technology including a standard rearview camera and available Smart City Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Departure Warning System, and Adaptive Front Lighting System. more “Getting behind the wheel of a Mazda Miata MX-5 is an exhilarating experience which provides the freedom of exploration to those who love driving. The Miata has always been focused on providing an elegant and intuitive vehicle to all drivers,” said Masahiro Moro, CEO of Mazda North American Operations and senior managing executive officer of Mazda Motor Corporation. “The Miata is a legendary vehicle and we are continuously innovating and improving to provide passengers the joy of driving for years to come.” The Mazda MX-5 Miata debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in 1989. Now, 30 years later, Mazda proudly made another debut at the Chicago Auto Show with the world premiere of the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary Edition. The special edition is meant to commemorate all of its milestones and the important people that have been part of its special journey, especially Mazda’s enthusiastic fans. The first noticeable new feature is the exclusive Racing Orange exterior paint color. This strikingly vivid color pays homage to the yellow MX-5 Miata Club Racer that also debuted at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show. Racing Orange is meant to represent sunrise and anticipation, while staying true to the characteristics of a pure sports car. More detail and preorder information are available at https://www.mazdausa.com/30th-anniversary.

Mazda to Unveil New SUV at Geneva Motor Show

Mazda will showcase the world premiere of a new SUV, the second model in its new-generation lineup, at the Geneva International Motor Show which runs from March 5-17, 2019.1 As a brand-new addition to the Mazda lineup, the SUV offers refined quality in all the areas that matter to drivers. It features the maturing Kodo design language and Mazda’s new-generation Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture, which draws out people’s inherent balance ability. The powertrain lineup comprises the latest Skyactiv engines, including the revolutionary Skyactiv-X, which adopts a unique combustion method to combine the free-revving performance of a gasoline engine with the superior response of a diesel. Geneva will also host the European premiere of the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary, which will be revealed for the first time at the Chicago Auto Show in February.

Size matters: Choosing the right Nissan for that big game TV bargain

Nachos, chicken wings and a brand new flat-screen TV are on the shopping list this week as folks stock up on party supplies before America’s favorite football game on Sunday. To make sure the television fits in your ride home, Nissan is issuing the ultimate big game guide for TV hunters. Some 44 million people are planning to host a game day gathering according to National Retail Foundation. The best time besides Black Friday to find deals on a flat-screen TV is right before the big game. Nissan SUV and truck owners will be relieved to know that nearly all nameplates can transport a shiny, new 50-inch fully boxed TV, with the exception of the Nissan Kicks compact crossover, which can amply fit a 32-inch fully boxed flat screen. more Shoppers can use the below guide – based on specifications of the most popular packaged TVs – to see how big of a screen will fit in a Nissan, crossover, SUV or truck in plenty of time for kickoff. • Kicks: up to 32 inch • Rogue/Rogue Sport: up to 50 inch • Pathfinder: up to 50 inch • Murano: up to 55 inch • Armada: up to 58 inch • Titan: up to 75 inch* Electronics experts recommend positioning a new flat-screen TV upright in a vehicle to prevent damage.

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Is it necessary to make an appointment at Passport Collision Center?

Is it necessary to make an appointment at Passport Collision Center? You do not have to make an appointment, but we do schedule appointments in advance for your convenience. Take a moment to schedule an appointment online or call us directly at 301-423-2200 and a customer service specialist will be more than happy to help you set up an appointment at your convenience.

Mazda CX-5 and CX-9 Once Again Awarded Two Spots on Car and Driver’s 10 Best Trucks and SUVs List

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 compact crossover SUV and 2019 Mazda CX-9 three-row crossover SUV have been named two of Car and Driver magazine’s 10Best Trucks and SUVs for 2019. This is the second straight Best Compact SUV honor for the Mazda CX-5, and third consecutive Best Mid-Size SUV crowning for the Mazda CX-9. Both SUVs distinguished themselves amongst the competition, while also exceeding expectations with their value. The Mazda CX-5 and CX-9 demonstrated the qualities of a 10Best winner by delivering visceral driving experiences, excellent fuel efficiency, sophisticated design and refined craftsmanship. Car and Driver noted that, “The Mazda CX-5 provides luxury-grade interior refinement at solidly nonluxury prices; ride and handling that feel sized up from a Miata, rather than dumbed down for mass-market appeal; and an exterior that bucks the boxy conventions of its segment in favor of something significantly more elegant. But most of all, there’s the sense that the CX-5 was designed for people like us—people who love to drive.” more The Mazda CX-9 was also praised by Car and Driver for standing out in its class by providing exceptional driving dynamics with a refined interior and design. “Nothing in this class can match the CX-9’s dynamic competence. It’s not even close, friends. If you need a three-row SUV, you will not find a better-driving, more satisfying one than the Mazda CX-9. Period. Take a gander at the flowing curves and taut lines of the CX-9. Inspect its tasteful adornment. Inside, you will find one of the most handsome arrangements of materials in the segment. A mass-market family vehicle needn’t look and feel like a plastic storage bin. And you need not pilot a rudderless barge down the shipping lanes of middle age.” The Mazda CX-5 raises the bar in 2019 by adding two new, more luxurious top-tier trim levels with Grand Touring Reserve and Signature. The 2019 Mazda CX-5 refines the powertrain lineup with the addition of the turbocharged four-cylinder SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine and an enhanced focus on the chassis featuring the latest technologies with G-Vectoring Control Plus. It also hosts advanced features that help improve on the vehicle’s comfort, convenience and safety. The 360° View Monitor and the 7-inch, full-color touchscreen display with available Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ compatibilities are among the new features available on the 2019 model. The 2019 Mazda CX-9 also introduces new features and refinements to benefit drivers and passengers in all three rows. The Mazda CX-9 has a retuned suspension that provides a smoother, more natural ride experience. Greater sound suppression was achieved by way of a thicker headliner and thicker floor mats, which aid in ease of conversation and enjoyment. The flagship three-row SUV is now available with a 360° View Monitor, ventilated front seated, new, power-folding mirrors and Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ compatibilities. Car and Driver’s 10Best accolade is one of the most sought-after awards in the automotive industry. For eligibility, vehicles must be a returning winner, all-new or significantly revised with a base price of $90,000 or less. Vehicles are judged on their class, value and driving experience. Most recently, the 2019 MX-5 Miata was named as one of Car and Driver’s10Best Cars. For the 18th year in a row, the MX-5 Miata has taken top honors on this renowned list for punching above its weight class and exemplifying the ideal roadster with value, excellent driving dynamics and a timeless design.

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