Hosting a monthly Cars & Coffee event can be a lot of work. From the pre-planning and advertising to the day of the actual event, there are lot of moving parts. With an event the size of Jacksonville’s Cars & Coffee, with 800-1000 vehicles in attendance, setting up requires a lot of equipment.
In February of 2020 our team used the Mercedes-Benz Metris cargo van to haul 100 cones, a couple pop-up tents, boxes of merchandise, banners and signs and more to the Avenues Mall for the early morning cruise-in. The Metris swallowed it all and had plenty of room for more.
Not too big and definitely not too small, the Mercedes-Benz Metris Mid-Size Commercial Van provides incredible cargo capacity for very little money. Matter of fact, the Metris is the least expensive U.S. Mercedes-Benz with a starting price of $28,950.
Our Metris is powered by a fuel efficient 4-cylinder gasoline engine that makes 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and sends power to the rear wheels through a 7-speed automatic transmission. Even though the Metris looks much bigger on the outside, we found the driving dynamics similar to a Mercedes-built minivan, if that existed. Braking was excellent, steering on point and much to our surprise, the suspension felt quite sporty.
View event photos from the February 2020 Jacksonville Cars & Coffee here:
Compact crossover SUVs are everywhere. From entry-level to high-end luxury there is a compact crossover being built for just about everyone. The compact SUV combines sedan-like handling and performance with utility vehicle practicality. Fuel economy is often on par with smaller hatchbacks or less versatile station wagons.
2020 Cadillac XT4
The 2020 Cadillac CT4 is on the luxury side of today’s compact crossover landscape. Designed to appeal to younger consumers, both in age or spirit, the CT4 features innovative design inside and out. Cadillac’s “user experience” infotainment intuitively grows and adapts with the user. It wouldn’t be a stretch to call it “smart infotainment” as it leverages cloud-based connectivity to continually update systems with the latest technology. The standard 8-inch touchscreen system includes 4 USB ports, BOSE seven-speaker audio, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Upgraded audio and a wireless charging station are available as options on select models.
2020 Cadillac XT4
One engine sits under the hood of every trim, regardless of the modifier in the name. All Sport, Luxury and Premium Luxury models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline4 that produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A smooth, quick-shifting nine-speed automatic is standard. Front wheel drive models are rated at 24/30 city/highway mpg and all-wheel-drive, which is available as an option, yield 22/29 city/highway mpg.
2020 Cadillac XT4
What defines the trim levels is appointments and design elements. XT4 Sport models feature a gloss black mesh V-Series inspired grille, gloss black window moldings and unique alloy wheel choices. Luxury and Premium Luxury models feature extensive brightwork, including grilles with metallic accents, satin aluminum window moldings and satin chrome-accented door handles.
2020 Cadillac XT4
Our review vehicle was the front-wheel-drive XT4 Sport model with front-wheel-drive. The review period fell during a busy time of the year and the XT4 worked hard to transport materials, chauffeur friends and run numerous errands. The fuel efficiency was appreciated as we racked up more than 500 miles on the odometer. While the engine and transmission combination fall short of the “sport” nomenclature, they do work exceptionally well as a spirited daily driver. The XT4’s steering is precise. The suspension is comfortable and braking confident.
2020 Cadillac XT4
New for 2020, automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking and forward collision alert and safety alert seat are now standard on all models. Additional standard active safety features include rear park assist and an HD rear vision camera. Optional safety feature highlights include Lange change alert with blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, following distance indicator, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, rear pedestrian alert and more.
The 2020 Cadillac CT4 has a starting price of $36,690 including destination.
We have to wonder how Hyundai continues to find ways to squeeze more value into their vehicles. Each new offering seems to further defy the pricing standards, as they incorporate long lists of active safety equipment and infotainment options into vehicles priced below many competitor’s meagerly-appointed base offerings.
For instance, take the all-new 2020 Hyundai Venue. For an almost unbelievable starting price of $17,350 the 2020 Venue includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as lane-departure warning and an automated emergency braking system. With pricing and options like that Hyundai’s subcompact crossover SUV actually redefines expectations for an “entry-level vehicle.” Further, the low pricing and advanced safety and connectivity features make the Venue an appealing option for parents looking for a first vehicle for a new driver.
The Venue is powered by a 121-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. A standard six-speed manual transmission is standard and a CVT is optional. The engine provides excellent fuel economy with up to 30 city and 34 highway mpg. For the majority of daily driving, the Venue’s Unfortunately, the engine concedes acceleration for efficiency and highway passing often requires extra planning. The precise steering and sharp handling make the Venue a fun little vehicle around town, but again the Venue feels out of place on the highway at speed. The little SUV seems to wander a bit, requiring a little extra driver effort.
The Venue’s interior shines, especially in light of the price point and subcompact segment classification. Front seat passengers are given plenty of room. The driver will appreciate the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. It is amazing how much those two touchpoints add to the overall driving perceptions. Yes Hyundai cuts corners, for instance the base model has no center armrest, but the overall appearance and comfort of the interior is a step above the base models of many competitors and just about every entry-level vehicle made only a few years ago.
Rear seat passengers will find the accommodations adequate for two adults, three smaller children will also fit comfortably. Venue offers 19 cubic feet of cargo room behind the 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Fold them down and cargo space increases to 32 cubic feet. Both numbers are right in line with subcompact crossover segment expectations.
Hyundai should be proud of their latest crossover, fitting in nicely with the Kona, Tucson, Santa Fe and Palisade. Consumers looking for an affordable subcompact SUV will appreciate the value and high-level of standard features.
Fiat’s use of heritage marketing has helped bring some lovely cars to the market. The current Fiat 500 is close enough in design to the original that it brings back memories for many. Like the original Fiat 500, the current iteration is a true city car. Yes, the 2020 model is far more capable on the highway, but the vehicle truly shines in urban environments where space is at a premium.
Over the past decade enthusiasts and fans who appreciate the look of the tiny 500 have had new options from Fiat, including the 2020 Fiat 500X. Larger and more practical than the 500, the 500X small crossover not only gives the consumer more seating and cargo space but all-wheel-drive makes Fiat’s little SUV a better choice in less than ideal weather conditions.
Photo Courtesy of FCA
The 2020 Fiat 500X is powered by an all-new 1.3-liter direct-injection turbocharged engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Fiat’s new powerplant features FCA’s MultiAir valve-actuation technology and engine stop-start technology. The tiny engine is surprisingly powerful, rated at 177 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. That torque number is best-in-class. Thanks to the advanced tuning and a disconnecting rear axle, fuel economy is also noteworthy at 24 city / 30 highway.
Photo Courtesy of FCA
Fans of the 500 will appreciate the Fiat 500X’s incorporation of heritage-influenced styling cues. To our eyes, the 500X does the best job to date of expanding the proportions of the 500 to date. The larger dimensions mean that squeezing five adults into the 500X is possible, if only for short periods of time. The oversized windows and optional dual-pane sunroof enhance the open feeling of the interior, but make no mistake the 500x is definitely a compact vehicle.
Photo Courtesy of FCA
Cargo space is at a premium for a compact crossover SUV, more on par with compact hatchbacks than many of the 500X’s direct competitors. The 14 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats expands to 32 cubic feet when they are folded down, still plenty of room for groceries, backpacks or a couple carry-on bags.
Photo Courtesy of FCA
The 2020 Fiat 500X’s Uconnect 4 infotainment system features a 7-inch touchscreen radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth audio. Upgrades include navigation and SiriusXM Radio. Those looking for a bit more will want to investigate the 8-speaker and a subwoofer BeatsAudio premium sound system.
Photo Courtesy of FCA
All 500X models come with a standard Rearview camera. Additional available safety features include lane departure warning, front and rear park assist, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, rain-sensing windshield wipers, blind-spot monitors and rear cross path detection.
Powered by a time-tested V6 engine, the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder offers strong performance and excellent towing capabilities. Families will appreciate the spacious interior and cargo space. Enthusiasts will find the “Rock Creek Edition” to have a fun throw-back appeal, kindling fond memories of the brutish Pathfinder of the 1980s and 1990s.
For 2020, the Nissan Pathfinder is available in five trim levels: S, SV, SL, Rock Creek Edition (SV and SL) and Platinum. The V6 is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive. An all-wheel drive system is available for an additional $1,690.
Nissan refreshed the Pathfinder’s in 2017 and the SUV remains relatively unchanged for the 2020 model year. The SUV’s headlights and “V-Motion” grille align with rest of Nissan’s lineup. Base models come with 18-inch alloy wheels and Platinum trims receive 20-inch versions. Our Rock Creek Edition tester sported a nice set of 18-nch dark-finished aluminum-alloy wheels and all-season tires. The Rock Creek package also includes a black front grille, side mirrors, front and rear bumper accents, outside door handles, overfenders and roof rails. A unique lower front fascia, exterior badging and a tow hitch receiver with 7-pin wiring harness finish out the exterior enhancements. Inside, you get unique Rock Creek Edition interior with high-contrast stitching, Rock Creek Edition interior trim, and Rock Creek Edition badging.
The Pathfinder’s interior is roomy and comfortable. Larger families will appreciate the three-row seating which makes the SUV a decent alternative to buying a mini-van. Yes, a mid-size SUV will never be able to compete with the amount of cargo space provided a minivan, but the Pathfinder’s utility and low price point make it a viable option for other reasons. The second-row bench seat slides back and forth, allowing for cabin configuration based on the number of passengers.
The 2020 Pathfinder has 16 cubic feet of cargo space which expands to 47.8 cubic feet and 79.8 cubic feet when the second and third rows are folded.
Photo courtesy of Nissan
Nissan’s V6 produces 284 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque. The CVT transmission works well, but takes away from the overall driving experience. Fuel economy is strong, especially for the segment. Front-wheel drive models achieve an EPA-estimated 20/27 mpg city/highway. All-wheel drive models are rated at 19/26 mpg. Towing capacity is rated at 6,000 pounds.
Photo Courtesy of Nissan
The Pathfinder is a comfortable vehicle on the road. The V6 provides excellent power for highway passing and towing. Stopping is easy and the suspension keeps the SUV in check on less than ideal roadway surfaces. While the 7 inches of clearance may limit the Pathfinder’s offroad capabilities, Nissan’s SUV is a great option for winter climates especially when equipped with all-wheel-drive.
Photo Courtesy of Nissan
The standard 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system features a six-speaker sound system with a CD player. Base-model Pathfinders also arrive with six USB ports, Bluetooth, satellite radio, tri-zone automatic climate control and push-button start/stop. Available tech includes navigation, an upgraded 13-speaker Bose audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Photo Courtesy of Nissan
Standard safety features include a rearview camera, forward collision warning, rear parking sensors and automatic emergency braking.
Pricing for the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder starts at $31,980. The SV Rock Creek Edition starts at $35,765.
Recently we spent some time with two of Nissan’s smaller sedans, the compact Sentra and the subcompact Versa. Both are “all-new” for 2020. Enhanced styling give both a stronger presence on the road and in the driveway. Upgraded powertrains yield better road-going characteristics.
The 2020 Nissan Sentra: Nissan’s best Sentra to date
While other Nissans tend to grab the headlines, particularly the iconic Z car and the GT-R, the Sentra quietly remains the best-selling Nissan of all time in the United States. The popular compact sedan is all-new for 2020, with a fresh design built upon a new platform. Two inches lower and wider than the outgoing model, the new Sentra is, in our eyes anyway, attractive.
All models get Nissan’s V-motion grille, select versions also receive LED projector headlamps and LED daytime running lights. The sharp creases, low roofline and wider stance give the Sentra an athletic appearance, something that Sentras of old never had.
Under the hood sits a new 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine which replaces the previous 1.8-liter. Horsepower is rated at 149 hp, which is sufficient for the compact sedan and more impressively marks a 20 percent increase over the previous model. The 146 lb-ft of torque is also a noteworthy 17 percent jump over the 2019 model.
Power is sent to the front wheels by Nissan’s latest generation Xtronic transmission. Nissan has done a decent job of adding some excitement to the CVT transmission, but even with all the refinement and economy, we would prefer a traditional automatic gearbox. That said, Nissan was an early adopter of the CVT and you can tell that they put some work in to make it as decent as possible.
Fuel economy is impressive. The 2020 Sentra is rated at 29/39/33 mpg city/highway/combined for the S and SV grades and 28/37/32 mpg city/highway/combined for the SR grade.
For 2020, the Sentra now includes Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard equipment. The safety equipment package includes six driver-assist systems: Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist and Rear Automatic Braking.
Pricing for the all-new 2020 Sentra S starts at $19,090 plus fees. The base model includes 16-inch steel wheels, cloth interior and remote keyless entry with push button start.
For $20,270 plus fees, the Sentra SV adds 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 8-inch color display with multi-touch control, 6-speaker audio system, auto climate control, intelligent cruise control and a nicer cloth interior.
At $21,430 plus fees, the Sentra SR includes 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, LED headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights, LED fog lights, sport cloth interior with orange stitching, rear spoiler and lower body side sill extensions.
The 2020 Versa: Subcompact Steps in the Right Direction
Full Disclosure, I’ve never been a fan of Nissan’s entry-level subcompact sedan. I understand the premise and appreciate the excellent fuel economy and the value of having a new car warranty, but nothing about the outgoing Versa really stood out in a crowded subcompact segment. So it was a bit of a surprise that the 2020 Versa won me over in a few areas.
Versa’s new design, stronger engine, enhanced driving dynamics and improved interior left a lasting impression. While I wouldn’t look for excuses to take the Versa out for a drive, something I do with my Z cars, the daily commute to work was easy behind the wheel. On the highway the Versa does what you ask if you are patient. The seats are comfortable and the stereo system actually sounds really good.
Wider, longer and lower, the new Versa is a sportier take on Nissan’s affordable subcompact. The design is a bit softer than I’d like in spots, something common in the subcompact segment, but overall the new lines are quite pleasing. The signature V-motion grille helps the Versa fit in with its relatives and the SR model is equipped with attractive LED lighting.
Abundant hard-touch plastic surfaces mar an otherwise surprisingly spacious and thoughtful interior. The 88.9 cubic feet of interior space and 14.3 cubic feet of trunk volume help the Versa feel more like a compact vehicle than a subcompact. Six-way adjustable cloth front bucket seats are standard. Heated front seats can be had with the SR Convenience Package. The Versa SR also features sportier seat fabric and upgraded interior trim and accents.
Our SR model test vehicle included a great-sounding 6-speaker system controlled by a 7.0-inch touchscreen Display. The infotainment system features satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Nissan’s reluctance to offer either smartphone connectivity system appears to be in the rearview.
Under the hood sits a new 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that is rated at 122 horsepower and a 114 lb-ft of torque. Both numbers are considerable jumps over the outgoing powerplant. The added power gives the Versa a little more zip, but make no mistake, Nissan’s subcompact is designed for efficiency.
The base S model arrives with a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an available CVT transmission. The latter is standard on Versa SV and SR grades. Fuel economy for the base model with the 5-speed is rated at 27/35/30 mpg city/highway/combined. Xtronic (CVT) models see 32/40/35 mpg city/highway/combined.
While not standard, Versa is now available with Nissan’s “Safety Shield” active safety technology. The package includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear automatic braking, lane departure warning, high beam assist, blind spot warning and rear cross traffic alert.
Pricing for the 2020 Versa S starts at $14,730 plus fees. The base model is very limited in features, making it a good choice for basic transportation. Our recommendation would be to look at the SV model with the upgraded wheels, infotainment and safety features for $17,640 plus fees.
When my neighbors began the search for a new car they investigated the latest from Dodge, Chevy, Ford, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai and others. We would chat about their discoveries and I would offer my two cents. In the span of a few weeks they had narrowed their search to some very viable options, any of which would have led to years of relatively carefree ownership. In the end they drove home in a new 2020 Kia Stinger.
Photo courtesy of KIA Motors.
KIA’s Stinger is a compelling new(ish) sports sedan from a manufacturer that learns from their mistakes and victories and uses the lessons to build better cars. Watching the evolution of the brand is inspiring. From the simple econoboxes of twenty years ago to the comfortable and luxurious vehicles of today, KIA has gone from being the car you could afford to a vehicle that many aspire to own.
Photo courtesy of KIA Motors.
The Stinger is attractive. The profile is a convincing take on much loftier British and European sports sedans. The 365-horsepower 3.3-liter turbocharged engine is reminiscent of the 3-liter twin-turbos that resided under the hoods of yesterday’s Japanese supercars. In short, KIA not only learns from KIA, they are studying the best habits of the competition.
Photo courtesy of KIA Motors.
KIA’s excellent adaption of technology gives the interior an upscale feel and provides an enhanced level of usability without a steep learning curve. We have long praised the functionality and performance of the manufacturer’s infotainment system and the latest iteration is the best yet. The excellent sound quality and intuitive smartphone integration are evidence that KIA understands today’s marketplace.
Photo courtesy of KIA Motors.
Driving the Stinger, especially the top-trim performance model GT2, proves our hypothesis; KIA has done their homework. It may fall short of being named the best handling sports sedan on the market. While it is attractive, few would call it the ultimate in sports sedan design. But it comes close in all aspects. While it may be difficult to name KIA’s sports sedan as the top pick in a single category, the Stinger rises much closer to the top when you consider the car as a whole.
Photo courtesy of KIA Motors.
The turbocharged engine provides decent fuel economy (17/25 mpg city/highway) while having enough power to launch the sedan from zero to sixty in about five seconds. Our overall impression of the Stinger’s suspension was that it was a bit too soft, but it is hard to argue that KIA’s compromise likely yields a better driving experience in the long run. How often are you negotiating a tight hairpin turn in relation to the time spent in stop and go traffic?
Photo courtesy of KIA Motors.
Our top-trim GT2 was equipped with perforated leather seats and a nicely-appointed interior. The abundance of soft touch surfaces and the high level of fit and finish all add up to a sport-themed luxury interior that is easy to live with. We have already mentioned the infotainment system, but it is worth adding that the 360 surround view camera, blind spot detection, lane keep assistance and a long list of active safety features included in the GT2 all add to the value of this performance-themed model.
Photo courtesy of KIA Motors.
KIA’s entire line up of sedans are noteworthy. The entry-level subcompact RIO includes a 7-inch infotainment system with Apple Carplay and costs less than $16,000. The flagship K900 is a legitimate contender in the full-size luxury sedan segment, taking on the likes of BMW, Audi and Mercedes for just less than $60k.
Photo courtesy of KIA Motors.
The term “value” comes up a lot when we discuss KIA here at Automotive Addicts. When you place the Stinger’s performance, exterior design and interior comfort into direct comparison with similar vehicles, it is the value that helps give KIA’s take an edge. Add in one of the best warranty packages on the planet and it is hard to argue that the Stinger is a great car to own on day 1 and on day 1,001.
Subaru has done an incredible job building a loyal following. Owners are faithful and often purchase the same model, a few years newer, when it is time to upgrade. Outback owners are in for a nice surprise when it is time to trade up. The new for 2020 model offers more power, better technology and enhanced rear seating and cargo space.
Two More Powerful Engines, One Transmission
We’ve always appreciated the Outback formula. Subaru’s mid-size SUV looks and handles more like an oversized station wagon than a traditional SUV, mini-van or truck. However, we often found the outgoing engines, including the top-trim V6 to be a bit lacking in terms of power. Fuel economy was great, but the energy that the exterior design evokes always felt a bit betrayed by the power.
Photo Courtesy of Subaru
Apparently we weren’t alone; the new for 2020 powerplants address the need for more muscle while simultaneously offering superior fuel economy. Both engines send power to all four wheels through a CVT transmission. Subaru’s reputation for offering all-wheel-drive all-weather ready vehicles is only strengthened by the new model.
The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine offers surprisingly good fuel economy. The Outback stands out in the mid-size crossover SUV crowd by delivering an impressive 26/33/20 mpg city/highway/combined. Perhaps even more exciting is the range. On the highway the Outback is good for more than 600 miles before you need to be dreadfully aware of the next exit with a gas station.
Photo Courtesy of Subaru
Our Onyx XT review vehicle was fit with the all-new 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that creates an impressive 260 horsepower and 277 ft-lbs. of torque. The additional torque really helps the Outback shine, providing stronger acceleration and more immediate highway passing. While we aren’t fans of any CVT, Subaru has done an excellent job with this one. The manufacturer’s transmission choice also helps yield fantastic fuel economy with 23/30/26 mpg (city/highway/combined).
A Huge Infotainment Screen Anchors the Updated Interior
A more powerful turbocharged engine is always going to peak our interest, but the Onyx trim’s 11.5-inch infotainment touch screen probably gets the most attention. Subaru’s implementation looks like a tablet-style computer has been grafted into the dashboard and center console. The system is fairly intuitive and goes beyond traditional infotainment, encompassing climate control functions and many other important vehicle controls. While we found the software and hardware to be fast and faultless, the resolution of the screen needs refinement. The new front-view camera and backup camera in particular seem dated compared to the competition from a visual standpoint.
Photo Courtesy of Subaru
Both the driver and front seat passenger are provided with comfortable accommodations. Subaru favors long-lasting materials and excellent fit and finish over trendy fashions. It is apparent that the cabin will age well and still seem contemporary to the brand even in a decade or so. Rear seat passengers have more room than ever and the cargo space is not only bigger, but more user friendly than the outgoing model.
Spending a week with the Outback proves the family friendliness of the vehicle. From car pooling to weekend errands, the crossover simply does what you ask and uses very little fuel in the process.
Enhanced Safety Technology
Subaru’s “EyeSight Driver Assist Technology” is standard on all models. The set of active safety technology includes adaptive cruise control and active lane centering. Both features are helpful on long highway trips, giving the Outback a great chance to show off the vehicles range. Subaru’s “DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System” uses an infrared camera and facial recognition technology to help identify driver fatigue or distraction.
Photo Courtesy of Subaru
Additional features available include LED steering responsive headlights, head-up display, reverse automatic braking, blind spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross traffic alert.
Pricing
The base model 2020 Outback starts at at $27,655, including a destination charge of $1,010. The Premium trim is $29,905, Limited is $34,455 and the Touring trim starts at $38,355.
The Outback XT models, with the turbocharged engine, include the Onyx Edition XT at $35,905, Limited XT $38,755, and Touring XT at $40,705.
Once upon a time becoming a mom or dad meant trading in the fun car for something “more practical.” I’m sure that even as you read this sentence the keys to a two-passenger sports car will be exchanged for a crossover SUV or minivan. Evidently, the thoughtful folks at Dodge had seen enough and created the Dodge Charger SET Hellcat.
No longer would a loving parent have to choose between smoky burnouts and cargo space. With more than 700 horsepower on tap, four doors and comfortable seating for five, the 2020 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is, in many ways, the perfect family car. Having backseat passengers and a trunk full of backpacks may actually help times at the drag strip, the additional weight working to keep the rear tires in contact with the road.
2020 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat. Courtesy of FCA.
Powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8, the Hellcat makes 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. That’s the horsepower equivalent of SEVEN 1984 Dodge Caravans. That equates to a zero to sixty time of 3.6 seconds, about ten seconds quicker than the “vintage” Caravan.
The race-inspired interior of the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody features a standard, leather-wrapped SRT flat-bottom steering wheel with mounted controls and paddle shifters, and standard French live-stitch accents throughout the instrument panel and doors. Courtesy of FCA.
New for 2020, the Charger Hellcat now features a standard “widebody” package that adds 3.5 inches to the sedan’s width. The new design accommodates wider tires, giving the Hellcat a little better chance to claw into the pavement than before. A three-mode SRT-tuned adaptive damping suspension allows the driver to dial in the best settings for the environment. Additional 2020 upgrades include larger sway bars, stiffer springs, a new electronic power steering system and retuned shocks.
We’ve often referred to the Hellcat as the automotive equivalent of a jackhammer. While it isn’t always the nimblest vehicle, brute force makes up for any shortcomings. That isn’t to say that the Charger is a slouch, according to Dodge the new model is able to pull an impressive .96g on the skid pad. However, the supercharged V8 can throw a lot more Gs at the contact patch of the tires with very little effort. In the wrong hands this family sedan can prove unforgiving.
Thanks to FCA’s excellent Uconnect system, the Hellcat offers one of the best standard infotainment systems on the market. The 8.4-inch touchscreen includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, Bluetooth and satellite radio. Those looking for the best audio will want to add the 19-speaker Harman/Kardon system.
While I may not personally need a large family sedan, the 2020 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is still on my list of “someday” cars. Considering the incredible power and attractive styling, it is hard to deny the sedan’s appeal.
The 2020 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat starts at $72,095.
Designed and engineered to push the boundaries of what a four-door family sedan can be, the new 2020 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody is the most powerful and fastest mass-produced sedan in the world. Courtesy of FCA.
In the middle of a section full of high-end Porsche, Dodge Vipers and miscellaneous Italian exotics sat a vintage Fiat 500. The tiny city car looked like it could fit into the trunk of any of the vehicles surrounding it at the car show. But the little hatchback didn’t fade into the background. Rather than being eclipsed by the exotic supercars, the 500 stole the show. In fact, when the official event photos were published, the Fiat’s “Cinquecento” main the first page of the story.
Automotive Photography by Deremer Studios LLCAutomotive Photography by Deremer Studios LLCAutomotive Photography by Deremer Studios LLC
Fast forward as we stare at the latest version of Fiat’s subcompact. The 500’s retro styling and “less is more” approach continue to command a loyal following of enthusiastic owners and fans. Fiat’s standout design, entertaining driving dynamics and excellent fuel economy provide well above average fun in a relatively affordable package.
2019 Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio. Photo Courtesy of FCA.
The Basics
The four-passenger 2019 Fiat 500 and 500c subcompact can be purchased as a hatchback or convertible. It’s sold in four trims: Pop, Lounge, 1957 Retro Edition and Abarth. Pop and Lounge models are powered by a normally-aspirated 135 horsepower four-cylinder engine. Our 500C Abarth model gets a turbocharger that boosts power to 160 hp. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic gearbox is available on all models. Front-wheel drive is standard.
Our Review Vehicle: 2019 Fiat 500C Abarth
Our reviewer checks all of the available boxes: a more powerful engine, Abarth styling and performance packages, 17-inch wheels and a unique convertible top that provides in-between open and closed options. Need a little sun and fresh air – tap the button to roll the canvas top back to the equivalent of a sunroof. Coming home from the night shift and need a boost to keep you awake? Hold the button down until the roof is completely open.
It is hard to deny the 500C Abarth’s personality. Taking a look at the vintage model, you can clearly see how the latest-model is inspired by the legendary 1950’s vehicle, considered by many as the world’s first “city car.” Much like the original, the 500’s footprint is miniscule but the subcompact’s presence is huge.
Interior
The 500’s interior is simple but fun, fitting of the Fiat’s personality. Front seating is surprisingly spacious, but the back seats are tiny (a word we use a lot in this post). Two adults would be hard pressed to even fit in the rear seats, never mind ride in them for anything longer than a short trip around town. The hatchback version allows the rear seats to be folded down, creating a comfortable two-seater with a decent size cargo area. Our convertible top comes at the expense of cargo space. With only 5.4 cubic feet available, you’d be hard-pressed to fit more than a roller bag or two in there.
Driving the Abarth
Our Abarth model’s turbocharged engine and sport-tuned steering and suspension are lots of fun on the road. The exhaust crackles and pops between shifts and when you let up the throttle. While the Abarth isn’t the fastest car we’ve driven, the tuned suspension, larger brakes and wider tires make every ride a little adventure.
2019 Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio. Photo Courtesy of FCA.
Final Verdict
The entry-level 2019 Fiat 500 Pop starts at $16,495 plus fees, providing the subcompacts retro-styling at an affordable price. Our performance-themed Abarth starts at $20,745 our nicely-equipped convertible was just shy of $27k plus fees.
Those looking for an entry-level vehicle that still commands attention will likely find the base model 500 a great deal. However, enthusiasts will find the pricing premium of the Abarth model to be well worth the added expense. For us, the 2019 Abarth hatchback with the 5-speed manual is the pick. The extra power and performance options transform the little city car into an enthusiast-friendly vehicle that loves to be driven.
2019 Fiat 500 Abarth Engine. Photo Courtesy of FCA.
Chris Brewer is an automotive writer and photographer living in Northeast Florida. Chris is a regular contributor to numerous automotive magazines and founded Jacksonville Car Culture, an automotive lifestyle firm that runs Jacksonville’s Cars & Coffee. Chris also works as the director of communications for The Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, a world-renowned automotive event and two-time winner of the International Historic Motoring Event of the Year award. He also has a doctorate degree from The Institute for Worship Studies.
