By SEMA Editors

The statement took place at a joint hearing, and comes on the heels of last week’s U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Oversight Subcommittee hearing with SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting.

Earlier this week, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC) questioned EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy on the agency’s proposed regulation that would prohibit the conversion of a motor vehicle to a race-only vehicle.

Rep. Hudson:  “… not only is this an important part of the way of life for a lot of Americans who enjoy taking cars and modifying them so they can race, but it’s a billion-dollar industry of aftermarket folks who make parts for people to use in competition. I remember back in February you testified before the committee and you made the point that, ‘Not one EPA regulation has ever cost one job.’ Well I’m telling you this is a billion-dollar industry that will be wiped out if we can’t clarify this and make sure the intent you’ve expressed is reflected in the regulation.”

The statement took place at a joint hearing, and comes on the heels of last week’s U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Oversight Subcommittee hearing with SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting.

It also follows Representatives Doug LaMalfa (R-California) and Austin Scott's (R-Georgia) letter to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy. In the letter, the Members ask Administrator McCarthy to provide clarity on the regulation and certainty for racers and our industry. 

Rep. Hudson represents the congressional district that includes Charlotte Motor Speedway and Rockingham Dragway. He is a co-sponsor of the “Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act of 2016,” a bill introduced earlier this month, which clarifies that emissions-certified street vehicles can be modified and converted for competition use.

Join the effort. Tell Congress to save our racecars and support the RPM Act. Sign the letter today!

By SEMA Editors

The statement took place at a joint hearing, and comes on the heels of last week’s U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Oversight Subcommittee hearing with SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting.

Earlier this week, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC) questioned EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy on the agency’s proposed regulation that would prohibit the conversion of a motor vehicle to a race-only vehicle.

Rep. Hudson:  “… not only is this an important part of the way of life for a lot of Americans who enjoy taking cars and modifying them so they can race, but it’s a billion-dollar industry of aftermarket folks who make parts for people to use in competition. I remember back in February you testified before the committee and you made the point that, ‘Not one EPA regulation has ever cost one job.’ Well I’m telling you this is a billion-dollar industry that will be wiped out if we can’t clarify this and make sure the intent you’ve expressed is reflected in the regulation.”

The statement took place at a joint hearing, and comes on the heels of last week’s U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Oversight Subcommittee hearing with SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting.

It also follows Representatives Doug LaMalfa (R-California) and Austin Scott's (R-Georgia) letter to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy. In the letter, the Members ask Administrator McCarthy to provide clarity on the regulation and certainty for racers and our industry. 

Rep. Hudson represents the congressional district that includes Charlotte Motor Speedway and Rockingham Dragway. He is a co-sponsor of the “Recognizing the Protection of Motorsports (RPM) Act of 2016,” a bill introduced earlier this month, which clarifies that emissions-certified street vehicles can be modified and converted for competition use.

Join the effort. Tell Congress to save our racecars and support the RPM Act. Sign the letter today!

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Joe Sebergandio

Motor Media Inc. Selected to Represent TEN’s Roadkill Brand

Motor Media Inc. has been selected to direct the sales efforts of TEN: The Enthusiast Network’s Roadkill brand, which delivers a one-of-a-kind taste of “Automotive Chaos Theory,” and features authentic gearheads David Freiburger and Mike Finnegan in a variety of mediums, including a YouTube automotive original series, two Roadkill Nights-branded events, a quarterly magazine and social media outlets. In addition, the brand-new series “Roadkill Garage” is now available on Motor Trend OnDemand. Joe Sebergandio, owner of Motor Media Inc. (MMI), has represented TEN for a number of years independently selling print, digital, and event-related opportunities within the automotive aftermarket. Prior to establishing MMI in 2005, Sebergandio worked at Petersen Publishing Co., eMap and Primedia as a publisher of many titles, including 4-Wheel & Off-Road and Sport Truck magazines, and also served as vice president of automotive events during his more than 20-year tenure there.

Three generations of Hellwigs.

Hellwig Products Celebrates 70th Anniversary

Hellwig Products is celebrating its 70th year in business. Hellwig was founded in 1946 after the Second World War and has remained family owned and operated to this day, manufacturing all of its steel products in California’s Central Valley. Hellwig’s expansive line of load and sway-control products can be found on everything from musclecars to trucks, military vehicles and RVs. Don Hellwig’s son Mark joined the family business in the ’60s and is currently president of the company. Melanie Hellwig White came to the business after gaining experience in other industries, and now holds the title of vice president. Hellwig has grown to become an industry-leading manufacturer of suspension products. The company began manufacturing sway bars in the ’70s, which now account for a majority of its sales, and has also leveraged its manufacturing expertise to build a private label and OEM division. In 2006, air suspension was introduced and added another dimension to Hellwig’s towing and hauling product line. Today, Hellwig offers suspension components for a variety of on-road and off-road vehicles. All Hellwig Products are made in the United States and come with a lifetime warranty on all steel parts.

PPG Refinish Continues Its Commitment to Training

While more than 16,600 students participated in PPG Automotive Refinish’s product, distributor and MVP training courses in 2015, PPG foresees an ongoing need to keep its customers and business partners up to date in all matters concerning collision refinish and commercial coatings. To address the challenge, the company will offer an expanded array of classes throughout 2016, with subjects ranging from basic and advanced product line training to custom painting techniques, business management, shop operations and customer service. Courses will be available in 16 state-of-the-art PPG Business Development Centers in the United States and Canada. Specific locations are being upgraded with new equipment and remodeled to accommodate the increased demand. PPG trainers will also travel to numerous vocational schools, PPG distributors and other PPG-affiliated locations across North America. Class schedules will continue to be announced throughout the year.

Brian Altenberger

Brian Altenberger Joins TI Automotive as Director, North American Aftermarket

TI Automotive has announced the appointment of Brian Altenberger as director, North America aftermarket. Altenberger will be responsible for North American sales, product management, marketing and business development, and will report to David Barbeau, managing director of global aftermarket at TI Automotive. Before joining TI Automotive, Altenberger spent 16 years with Delphi Product & Service Solutions in a variety of leadership roles, including his most recent assignment as director of North America marketing and service. Before that, he spent 10 years at Federal-Mogul Corp. and four years at Unisys Corp. Altenberger replaces Doug Thomson, who recently retired from TI Automotive after a distinguished career in the automotive aftermarket that included leadership posts at Federal-Mogul Corp. and Sloan Transportation Products. Altenberger is a former chairman and vice chairman of the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) Marketing Executives Council.

Keystone Automotive Operations Inc. Partners With DECKED

During the past year, Keystone Automotive Operations Inc. partnered with DECKED—a manufacturer of in-vehicle storage systems for trucks and cargo vans—as an important distributor in Canada, and now is delivering to U.S. customers. Contractors, outdoorsmen and commercial fleet operators are the core customers of DECKED products.

Excelsior Comp H tires feature a European-style “triple-stud” tread pattern, and they are available in a wide range of sizes to fit rim diameters from 18 to 21 in.

Excelsior Named the Recommended Tire for Pur Sang

Recently, Pur Sang selected Excelsior Comp H tires as the recommended tire choice for all Pur Sang T-Series builds (including T13, T35B, T35T, T37A, T43, T51 and T55), owned by the likes of Jay Leno and many other collectors. This exclusive agreement is based on the quality, authenticity and service associated with the Excelsior brand and its parent company, Coker Group. While Pur Sang has a United States presence, many of its customers and clients are based in other parts of the world, and the same can be said for Coker Group.

Excelsior Comp H tires feature a European-style “triple-stud” tread pattern, and they are available in a wide range of sizes to fit rim diameters from 18 to 21 in. Excelsior is the only full line of vintage-style racing tires to feature DOT and ECE approval. The tires feature an H-speed rating (130 mph) and eligibility in both FIA and VSCC racing organizations. Original fitments, such as 4.50-19, are included in the Excelsior tire product line but many racing enthusiasts increase sizing to enhance performance. Excelsior tires are available in many sizes to provide options for all types of street and race applications.

“We’re proud to be working closely with such an esteemed group of folks at Pur Sang.” said Coker Group President Wade Kawasaki. “The workmanship that goes into these cars is outstanding, and we’re thrilled to be the exclusive tire supplier for a company that takes pride in every nut and bolt that goes into a build. We take that same type of pride with our Excelsior tires, in addition to all of the tires and wheels within the Coker Group.”

Dee Zee Supports the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation “Awareness” Support Program

Dee Zee Inc. has announced its support of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), which is dedicated solely to helping members of the automotive aftermarket industry and their families. For more than 50 years, the AACF has assisted numerous individuals and families of the automotive aftermarket industry who have fallen on hard times due to a death, catastrophic accident or illness leading to financial or emotional hardship.

Ryan Feyer

Ryan Feyer Named Marketing Manager, Air Lift Co. Load Support Division

Air Lift Co. has promoted Ryan Feyer to marketing manager of its Load Support Division. Feyer will be responsible for developing and executing the marketing strategy behind Air Lift’s load support brand. Feyer has been with Air Lift since 2012, when he joined the company as an Internet marketing manager. Prior to working at Air Lift Co., he served as a website administrator at Vertafore in East Lansing for three years.

WELD Participates in KC World of Wheels Student Career Day

Keith Kern, general manager of CCW Forged Performance, a WELD brand, helped educate more than 500 students on careers in the performance aftermarket industry during Student Career Day at the KC World of Wheels in February. Student Career Day is an initiative to support the automotive educational programs at schools by exposing students to the wide range of opportunities in the industry through speakers, corporate support and event participation. Kern was among several industry guest speakers and told students that it’s an ideal time to start a career in manufacturing. He also told students that the performance aftermarket is booming, and a significant sector of the U.S. economy, employing more than 4.3 million people. He also explained that industry sales in 2015 totaled $340.9 billion—a 3.9% increase over the previous year—contributing more than 2.3% of the U.S. gross domestic product.

DEI Announces Inaugural Cruise-In Custom Car Show Event

Design Engineering Inc. (DEI) has announced the company’s inaugural Cruise-In car show planned for Saturday, June 18, at the company’s headquarters in Avon Lake, Ohio. The show will bring some of the area’s most exciting custom cars and hot rods to DEI as part of the 2016 Cruisin’ Times Lucky 7 Road Show.

Women’s Automotive Association International Announces 2016 Spirit of Leadership Honorees

Five exceptional female business leaders have been selected to receive the 2016 Spirit of Leadership Award presented annually by the Women’s Automotive Association International (WAAI) in recognition of professional accomplishments, community involvement, and contributions to the growth and progress of the automotive industry. The award was established in 1999 to honor women in the automotive industry who have achieved noteworthy accomplishments in their profession, community and family, and who have served as role models and mentors, noted WAAI Founder and CEO Lorraine Schultz. This year’s honorees include Mandi Fang, vice president of product management, vAuto; Kathy Gilbert, director, sales and business development, CDK Global; Shellie Medici, commodity manager, FCA; Michelle Primm, managing partner, Cascade Auto Group; and Christy Roman, founder, Women in Automotive Conference. The women will be honored at the 18th annual Spirit of Leadership Awards Reception, Saturday, April 2, from 5:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m., at The D Hotel in Las Vegas. The reception, hosted by WAAI and presenting sponsor Cox Automotive, will be held in conjunction with the NADA Convention. For additional information, email Lynn Wilhelm or visit www.waai.com.

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.

SEMA-member companies have posted several new listings for job opportunities (view all here) in the Classifieds page of SEMA.org. Working for a SEMA-member company has many advantages. In addition to working for a company that supports and contributes to the success of the overall industry, being employed by a SEMA-member company enables employees to participate in webinars, access free market research, join SEMA committees and more.

SEMA-member companies have posted several new listings for job opportunities (view all here) in the Classifieds page of SEMA.org. Working for a SEMA-member company has many advantages. In addition to working for a company that supports and contributes to the success of the overall industry, being employed by a SEMA-member company enables employees to participate in webinars, access free market research, join SEMA committees and more.

The SEMA Show is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world. It draws the industry’s brightest minds and hottest products to one place, the Las Vegas Convention Center.

As part of Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week (AAIW), the SEMA Show attracts more than 100,000 industry leaders from more than 100 countries for unlimited profit opportunities in the automotive, truck and SUV, powersports and RV markets.

The 2015 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers.

The SEMA Show is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world. It draws the industry’s brightest minds and hottest products to one place, the Las Vegas Convention Center.

As part of Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week (AAIW), the SEMA Show attracts more than 100,000 industry leaders from more than 100 countries for unlimited profit opportunities in the automotive, truck and SUV, powersports and RV markets.

The 2015 SEMA Show drew more than 60,000 domestic and international buyers.

By John Stewart

Photos by Warren Kosikov

Nissan Introduces ’17 GT-R

The new ’17 Nissan GT-R, which debuted Wednesday at the 2016 New York International Auto Show, received what the manufacturer calls its “most significant makeover since its launch in 2007,” now offering 565 hp—an increase of 20 hp versus the ’16 model.

The new ’17 Nissan GT-R made its global debut Wednesday at the 2016 New York International Auto Show.

The new ’17 GT-R received what the manufacturer calls its “most significant makeover since its launch in 2007,” now offering 565 hp—an increase of 20 hp versus the ’16 model—with a flatter torque curve for improved acceleration. Among the powertrain changes is a new titanium exhaust system—standard on GT-R Premium models—which combines with new active noise cancellation and active sound enhancement technologies. Acoustic glass and targeted sound dampening help reduce the intrusion of wind and road noise into the GT-R cabin.

The GT-R’s new styling update incorporates the new V-motion grille—one of Nissan’s latest design signatures. The grille has been slightly enlarged to provide better engine cooling, and now features a matte chrome finish and an updated mesh pattern. A new hood, featuring pronounced character lines flowing flawlessly from the grille, has been reinforced to enhance stability during high-speed driving. One new four-coat premium exterior paint color, Blaze Metallic, has been added to the exterior paint palette.

Inside the cabin, the new premium interior design features an instrument panel wrapped in hand-selected Nappa leather and a revised front-seat design. A simplified switch layout reduces the number of switches from 27 in the previous design to just 11, while an 8-in. capacitive touch-panel monitor replaces the previous 7-in. design. In addition, the paddle shifters are now mounted on the steering wheel, allowing drivers to make mid-turn gear changes without taking their hands off the wheel. The interior of the Premium Edition, featuring semi-aniline leather, offers three different options: the newly added Rakuda Tan, as well as Amber Red and Ivory.

The GT-R Premium—the first of four ’17 GT-R grade levels—goes on sale at select GT-R Certified Nissan retailers in summer 2016.

In presenting the ’17 GT-R to an assembly of international automotive and business media Daniele Schillaci, executive vice president, global marketing & sales, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., stated: “This new GT-R is the most advanced, most refined and most progressive sports car that Nissan has ever built. And that is saying a lot.”

Powered by Nissan's 5.6L Endurance V8 gasoline engine, the half-ton Titan will be available in 4x2 or 4x4 drive configurations and three bed lengths—5.5, 6.5 and 8 ft.

Nissan Unveils ’17 Titan Crew Cab

Nissan officially unveiled the half-ton version of its family of Titan pickups—the ’17 Titan Crew Cab, powered by Nissan's 5.6L Endurance V8 gasoline engine.

With the all-new flagship XD model of Nissan's reimagined Titan family of pickups already in dealer lots, this volume model, half-ton Titan will go on sale in the late summer of 2016. Titan will initially launch as a Crew Cab model with Single and King Cab variants planned for later in the model year.

“Titan shares its aggressive style with the Titan XD, but the two vehicles are completely different underneath the skin,” said Fred Diaz, division vice president and general manager, North America Trucks and Light Commercial Vehicles, Nissan North America Inc. “Titan will compete in the heart of the fullsize pickup segment—the half-ton—while the Titan XD provides a unique solution for customers by bridging the cost and capability gap between traditional half-ton and full heavy-duty pickups. Between Titan and Titan XD, we will cover about 85% of the fullsize truck market.”

Titan is built on a separate chassis from Titan XD, and is approximately 228.1 in. long (14.7 in. less than XD) and 79.5 in. wide (same as XD), with the cab size shared between the two vehicles.

“We’ve said before that even the lug nuts are different from Titan to Titan XD,” added Diaz. “What’s important is that these two trucks are serving a completely different type of customer. As the head of Nissan’s light commercial vehicle program in the U.S, I’m thrilled to be getting this truck into the lineup as an option for fleets as well as for the personal-use buyer.”

The half-ton Titan will be available in 4x2 or 4x4 drive configurations and three bed lengths—5.5, 6.5 and 8 ft. Similar to Titan XD, the half-ton will be available in five trim levels—S, SV, PRO-4X, SL and Platinum Reserve.

The Titan will be powered by Nissan's 5.6L Endurance V8 gasoline engine, producing 390 hp. This engine, which will also be featured in the Titan XD V8 Gas and the all-new ’17 Armada, will be mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. A V6 gasoline engine will also be available (details to be announced at a later date).

The Nissan Titan will be assembled in Canton, Mississippi, with the 5.6L V8 gasoline assembled in Decherd, Tennessee. The truck goes on sale in summer 2016, and pricing will be available closer to its on-sale date.

The Mazda MX-5 RF’s retractable hardtop consists of a front roof, middle roof, rear roof and back window glass.

Mazda MX-5 RF with Retractable Hardtop Makes Global Debut

Also at the New York Auto Show, Mazda revealed the MX-5 RF—a Miata successor with a retractable hardtop and fastback lines.

The MX-5 RF’s retractable hardtop consists of a front roof, middle roof, rear roof and back window glass. The model’s unique design features back window glass that retracts when the top is down to enable the driver to fully enjoy the exhaust note. A large acrylic aero board wind blocker helps prevent air from the rear blowing back into the cabin.

According to Mazda spokesmen, synchronizing and overlapping the various movements of the roof sections enables MX-5 RF to achieve one of the fastest opening/closing times of any retractable hardtop. When the roof is open, the front and middle roof sections are stowed together with the back window glass in the space behind the seats. A new power top lock makes it possible to open and close the roof with the flip of a switch.

A new control system enables the roof to be opened or closed, even when in motion at speeds of 6 mph or less, useful if it suddenly begins to rain. At 4.6 cu. ft., trunk capacity is the same as the soft-top model, even when the roof is stowed behind the seats, and can accommodate two carry-on bags.

The suspension and Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system have been tuned specifically for the MX-5 RF, delivering the kind of driving performance MX-5 owners have come to expect, while also delivering a more comfortable and refined ride.

A sound-absorbing headliner used on the inside of the front and middle roof panels combines with sound insulation around the rear-wheel housings to result in a significantly quieter ride when the roof is closed.

The powertrain lineup consists of the 2.0L and 1.5L SKYACTIV-G gasoline engines paired with either a six-speed SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission or six-speed automatic transmission. Availability will depend on the market.

The i-ACTIVSENSE advanced safety technologies employed by MX-5 RF include Mazda’s Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring (ABSM) system and High Beam Control System (HBC), which automatically switches between high and low beam. MAZDA CONNECT allows drivers to take advantage of phone and Internet connectivity services.

The MX-5 RF is scheduled to become available “before the end of this year.”

By John Stewart

Photos by Warren Kosikov

Nissan Introduces ’17 GT-R

The new ’17 Nissan GT-R, which debuted Wednesday at the 2016 New York International Auto Show, received what the manufacturer calls its “most significant makeover since its launch in 2007,” now offering 565 hp—an increase of 20 hp versus the ’16 model.

The new ’17 Nissan GT-R made its global debut Wednesday at the 2016 New York International Auto Show.

The new ’17 GT-R received what the manufacturer calls its “most significant makeover since its launch in 2007,” now offering 565 hp—an increase of 20 hp versus the ’16 model—with a flatter torque curve for improved acceleration. Among the powertrain changes is a new titanium exhaust system—standard on GT-R Premium models—which combines with new active noise cancellation and active sound enhancement technologies. Acoustic glass and targeted sound dampening help reduce the intrusion of wind and road noise into the GT-R cabin.

The GT-R’s new styling update incorporates the new V-motion grille—one of Nissan’s latest design signatures. The grille has been slightly enlarged to provide better engine cooling, and now features a matte chrome finish and an updated mesh pattern. A new hood, featuring pronounced character lines flowing flawlessly from the grille, has been reinforced to enhance stability during high-speed driving. One new four-coat premium exterior paint color, Blaze Metallic, has been added to the exterior paint palette.

Inside the cabin, the new premium interior design features an instrument panel wrapped in hand-selected Nappa leather and a revised front-seat design. A simplified switch layout reduces the number of switches from 27 in the previous design to just 11, while an 8-in. capacitive touch-panel monitor replaces the previous 7-in. design. In addition, the paddle shifters are now mounted on the steering wheel, allowing drivers to make mid-turn gear changes without taking their hands off the wheel. The interior of the Premium Edition, featuring semi-aniline leather, offers three different options: the newly added Rakuda Tan, as well as Amber Red and Ivory.

The GT-R Premium—the first of four ’17 GT-R grade levels—goes on sale at select GT-R Certified Nissan retailers in summer 2016.

In presenting the ’17 GT-R to an assembly of international automotive and business media Daniele Schillaci, executive vice president, global marketing & sales, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., stated: “This new GT-R is the most advanced, most refined and most progressive sports car that Nissan has ever built. And that is saying a lot.”

Powered by Nissan's 5.6L Endurance V8 gasoline engine, the half-ton Titan will be available in 4x2 or 4x4 drive configurations and three bed lengths—5.5, 6.5 and 8 ft.

Nissan Unveils ’17 Titan Crew Cab

Nissan officially unveiled the half-ton version of its family of Titan pickups—the ’17 Titan Crew Cab, powered by Nissan's 5.6L Endurance V8 gasoline engine.

With the all-new flagship XD model of Nissan's reimagined Titan family of pickups already in dealer lots, this volume model, half-ton Titan will go on sale in the late summer of 2016. Titan will initially launch as a Crew Cab model with Single and King Cab variants planned for later in the model year.

“Titan shares its aggressive style with the Titan XD, but the two vehicles are completely different underneath the skin,” said Fred Diaz, division vice president and general manager, North America Trucks and Light Commercial Vehicles, Nissan North America Inc. “Titan will compete in the heart of the fullsize pickup segment—the half-ton—while the Titan XD provides a unique solution for customers by bridging the cost and capability gap between traditional half-ton and full heavy-duty pickups. Between Titan and Titan XD, we will cover about 85% of the fullsize truck market.”

Titan is built on a separate chassis from Titan XD, and is approximately 228.1 in. long (14.7 in. less than XD) and 79.5 in. wide (same as XD), with the cab size shared between the two vehicles.

“We’ve said before that even the lug nuts are different from Titan to Titan XD,” added Diaz. “What’s important is that these two trucks are serving a completely different type of customer. As the head of Nissan’s light commercial vehicle program in the U.S, I’m thrilled to be getting this truck into the lineup as an option for fleets as well as for the personal-use buyer.”

The half-ton Titan will be available in 4x2 or 4x4 drive configurations and three bed lengths—5.5, 6.5 and 8 ft. Similar to Titan XD, the half-ton will be available in five trim levels—S, SV, PRO-4X, SL and Platinum Reserve.

The Titan will be powered by Nissan's 5.6L Endurance V8 gasoline engine, producing 390 hp. This engine, which will also be featured in the Titan XD V8 Gas and the all-new ’17 Armada, will be mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. A V6 gasoline engine will also be available (details to be announced at a later date).

The Nissan Titan will be assembled in Canton, Mississippi, with the 5.6L V8 gasoline assembled in Decherd, Tennessee. The truck goes on sale in summer 2016, and pricing will be available closer to its on-sale date.

The Mazda MX-5 RF’s retractable hardtop consists of a front roof, middle roof, rear roof and back window glass.

Mazda MX-5 RF with Retractable Hardtop Makes Global Debut

Also at the New York Auto Show, Mazda revealed the MX-5 RF—a Miata successor with a retractable hardtop and fastback lines.

The MX-5 RF’s retractable hardtop consists of a front roof, middle roof, rear roof and back window glass. The model’s unique design features back window glass that retracts when the top is down to enable the driver to fully enjoy the exhaust note. A large acrylic aero board wind blocker helps prevent air from the rear blowing back into the cabin.

According to Mazda spokesmen, synchronizing and overlapping the various movements of the roof sections enables MX-5 RF to achieve one of the fastest opening/closing times of any retractable hardtop. When the roof is open, the front and middle roof sections are stowed together with the back window glass in the space behind the seats. A new power top lock makes it possible to open and close the roof with the flip of a switch.

A new control system enables the roof to be opened or closed, even when in motion at speeds of 6 mph or less, useful if it suddenly begins to rain. At 4.6 cu. ft., trunk capacity is the same as the soft-top model, even when the roof is stowed behind the seats, and can accommodate two carry-on bags.

The suspension and Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system have been tuned specifically for the MX-5 RF, delivering the kind of driving performance MX-5 owners have come to expect, while also delivering a more comfortable and refined ride.

A sound-absorbing headliner used on the inside of the front and middle roof panels combines with sound insulation around the rear-wheel housings to result in a significantly quieter ride when the roof is closed.

The powertrain lineup consists of the 2.0L and 1.5L SKYACTIV-G gasoline engines paired with either a six-speed SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission or six-speed automatic transmission. Availability will depend on the market.

The i-ACTIVSENSE advanced safety technologies employed by MX-5 RF include Mazda’s Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring (ABSM) system and High Beam Control System (HBC), which automatically switches between high and low beam. MAZDA CONNECT allows drivers to take advantage of phone and Internet connectivity services.

The MX-5 RF is scheduled to become available “before the end of this year.”

By John Stewart

Photos by Warren Kosikov

Nissan Introduces ’17 GT-R

The new ’17 Nissan GT-R, which debuted Wednesday at the 2016 New York International Auto Show, received what the manufacturer calls its “most significant makeover since its launch in 2007,” now offering 565 hp—an increase of 20 hp versus the ’16 model.

The new ’17 Nissan GT-R made its global debut Wednesday at the 2016 New York International Auto Show.

The new ’17 GT-R received what the manufacturer calls its “most significant makeover since its launch in 2007,” now offering 565 hp—an increase of 20 hp versus the ’16 model—with a flatter torque curve for improved acceleration. Among the powertrain changes is a new titanium exhaust system—standard on GT-R Premium models—which combines with new active noise cancellation and active sound enhancement technologies. Acoustic glass and targeted sound dampening help reduce the intrusion of wind and road noise into the GT-R cabin.

The GT-R’s new styling update incorporates the new V-motion grille—one of Nissan’s latest design signatures. The grille has been slightly enlarged to provide better engine cooling, and now features a matte chrome finish and an updated mesh pattern. A new hood, featuring pronounced character lines flowing flawlessly from the grille, has been reinforced to enhance stability during high-speed driving. One new four-coat premium exterior paint color, Blaze Metallic, has been added to the exterior paint palette.

Inside the cabin, the new premium interior design features an instrument panel wrapped in hand-selected Nappa leather and a revised front-seat design. A simplified switch layout reduces the number of switches from 27 in the previous design to just 11, while an 8-in. capacitive touch-panel monitor replaces the previous 7-in. design. In addition, the paddle shifters are now mounted on the steering wheel, allowing drivers to make mid-turn gear changes without taking their hands off the wheel. The interior of the Premium Edition, featuring semi-aniline leather, offers three different options: the newly added Rakuda Tan, as well as Amber Red and Ivory.

The GT-R Premium—the first of four ’17 GT-R grade levels—goes on sale at select GT-R Certified Nissan retailers in summer 2016.

In presenting the ’17 GT-R to an assembly of international automotive and business media Daniele Schillaci, executive vice president, global marketing & sales, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., stated: “This new GT-R is the most advanced, most refined and most progressive sports car that Nissan has ever built. And that is saying a lot.”

Powered by Nissan's 5.6L Endurance V8 gasoline engine, the half-ton Titan will be available in 4x2 or 4x4 drive configurations and three bed lengths—5.5, 6.5 and 8 ft.

Nissan Unveils ’17 Titan Crew Cab

Nissan officially unveiled the half-ton version of its family of Titan pickups—the ’17 Titan Crew Cab, powered by Nissan's 5.6L Endurance V8 gasoline engine.

With the all-new flagship XD model of Nissan's reimagined Titan family of pickups already in dealer lots, this volume model, half-ton Titan will go on sale in the late summer of 2016. Titan will initially launch as a Crew Cab model with Single and King Cab variants planned for later in the model year.

“Titan shares its aggressive style with the Titan XD, but the two vehicles are completely different underneath the skin,” said Fred Diaz, division vice president and general manager, North America Trucks and Light Commercial Vehicles, Nissan North America Inc. “Titan will compete in the heart of the fullsize pickup segment—the half-ton—while the Titan XD provides a unique solution for customers by bridging the cost and capability gap between traditional half-ton and full heavy-duty pickups. Between Titan and Titan XD, we will cover about 85% of the fullsize truck market.”

Titan is built on a separate chassis from Titan XD, and is approximately 228.1 in. long (14.7 in. less than XD) and 79.5 in. wide (same as XD), with the cab size shared between the two vehicles.

“We’ve said before that even the lug nuts are different from Titan to Titan XD,” added Diaz. “What’s important is that these two trucks are serving a completely different type of customer. As the head of Nissan’s light commercial vehicle program in the U.S, I’m thrilled to be getting this truck into the lineup as an option for fleets as well as for the personal-use buyer.”

The half-ton Titan will be available in 4x2 or 4x4 drive configurations and three bed lengths—5.5, 6.5 and 8 ft. Similar to Titan XD, the half-ton will be available in five trim levels—S, SV, PRO-4X, SL and Platinum Reserve.

The Titan will be powered by Nissan's 5.6L Endurance V8 gasoline engine, producing 390 hp. This engine, which will also be featured in the Titan XD V8 Gas and the all-new ’17 Armada, will be mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. A V6 gasoline engine will also be available (details to be announced at a later date).

The Nissan Titan will be assembled in Canton, Mississippi, with the 5.6L V8 gasoline assembled in Decherd, Tennessee. The truck goes on sale in summer 2016, and pricing will be available closer to its on-sale date.

The Mazda MX-5 RF’s retractable hardtop consists of a front roof, middle roof, rear roof and back window glass.

Mazda MX-5 RF with Retractable Hardtop Makes Global Debut

Also at the New York Auto Show, Mazda revealed the MX-5 RF—a Miata successor with a retractable hardtop and fastback lines.

The MX-5 RF’s retractable hardtop consists of a front roof, middle roof, rear roof and back window glass. The model’s unique design features back window glass that retracts when the top is down to enable the driver to fully enjoy the exhaust note. A large acrylic aero board wind blocker helps prevent air from the rear blowing back into the cabin.

According to Mazda spokesmen, synchronizing and overlapping the various movements of the roof sections enables MX-5 RF to achieve one of the fastest opening/closing times of any retractable hardtop. When the roof is open, the front and middle roof sections are stowed together with the back window glass in the space behind the seats. A new power top lock makes it possible to open and close the roof with the flip of a switch.

A new control system enables the roof to be opened or closed, even when in motion at speeds of 6 mph or less, useful if it suddenly begins to rain. At 4.6 cu. ft., trunk capacity is the same as the soft-top model, even when the roof is stowed behind the seats, and can accommodate two carry-on bags.

The suspension and Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system have been tuned specifically for the MX-5 RF, delivering the kind of driving performance MX-5 owners have come to expect, while also delivering a more comfortable and refined ride.

A sound-absorbing headliner used on the inside of the front and middle roof panels combines with sound insulation around the rear-wheel housings to result in a significantly quieter ride when the roof is closed.

The powertrain lineup consists of the 2.0L and 1.5L SKYACTIV-G gasoline engines paired with either a six-speed SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission or six-speed automatic transmission. Availability will depend on the market.

The i-ACTIVSENSE advanced safety technologies employed by MX-5 RF include Mazda’s Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring (ABSM) system and High Beam Control System (HBC), which automatically switches between high and low beam. MAZDA CONNECT allows drivers to take advantage of phone and Internet connectivity services.

The MX-5 RF is scheduled to become available “before the end of this year.”