The Biggest Changes Coming to the Automotive Industry in 2019

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carl-turnley-automotiveUntil recently, the automotive industry has been in a slump. It seems the early 2000s brought design changes that would move the industry forward; however, it was simply a new standard was set. Only a few innovative companies have been pushing the industry forward. Even a few newcomers – like Google and Tesla – have brought new technology to the automotive world in recent years. 2018 saw some interesting changes, and 2019 seems to have a lot in store as well. Below are some of the trends – some carrying over from last year and some new – for the automotive industry in 2019.

Electric Cars

Electric cars aren’t going anywhere. They may not be ideal for all areas of the world, but they are great in the cities. You won’t see many electric cars on the planes of Kansas or the mountains of Colorado, where you’ll often have to travel 100 mile round trips to visit certain points of interest; however, they are perfect for short commutes.

Ferrari’s New CEO

One of the many predictions for 2019 relates to Ferarri being under new leadership. We know that Ferrari has announced 15 new models to be released in the coming years, but they may not be what we expect. If the upcoming Ferrari Purosangue is anything to go by, Ferrari could be transitioning heavily into the crossover world. It all depends on how successful the Purosangue is. We could even see a low-cost crossover from Ferrari.

Subscription Services

Leasing or buying? This has been the question for anyone looking for a new car up until now. BMW and Porsche already have projects like these, but considering the cost, they will remain exclusive clubs for the wealthier citizens. However, if other companies hop on the trend, we could see subscription services like these that will rival the cost of leasing or buying.

Self Driving Vehicles

The innovative self driving car has met some speed bumps in the last few years, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t pushing forward. Only available in certain cities, like San Francisco and Phoenix, self driving cars could really be the future. Ideally and under perfect conditions, self driving cars would be the safest way ever invented to travel.

Top Cars Arriving in the New Year

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carl-turnley-2019carIn time for the start of 2019, a number of auto manufacturers are getting ready to introduce their new lineups. In the mix, will be a number of new models in addition to upgrades of popular models and a few that are being resurrected from the past.

The popularity of the crossover and SUV inventories will see a number of new models for the New Year. Subaru plans on introducing the larger Ascent SUV. The vehicle is designed to include three rows of seats. Fuel economy conscious consumers can expect a number of new hybrids that include the Honda Insight, the Jaguar I-Pace and the Lexus UX. Tesla will offer the all-electric Model X.

Upgraded vehicles include the RDX by Acura. The Ford Ranger boasts an all-new design as does the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, the GMC Sierra 1500 and the Ram 1500. Ford brought about a few changes in the company’s latest Mustang.

The Mustang GT coupes feature the Performance Package Two. The PP2 includes “MagneRide” adaptive dampers. The anti-roll bars on the front and rear of the vehicles are designed to be up to 67 percent stronger. The springs on the front and the rear are also reportedly up to 20 percent stiffer. The changes enable the GT to take corners better and provide more stability on the back roads.

Powerful muscle car fans will love the Ford Mustang Bullitt. The impressive engine in the Bullitt delivers 480 horsepower without forced induction. The sound alone of the engine revving provides an adrenaline rush. Add the blast from the exhaust and you have an exceptional muscle car that performs.

Jeep has long been synonymous with making quality off-road vehicles. However, for 2019, the company introduces the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. The vehicle shows us a totally different side to the Jeep name. The SUV features a 6.2 supercharged V8 engine capable of delivering more than 700 horses. The new Jeep goes from zero to 60mph in a mere 3.3 seconds. On a quarter-mile track, the Trackhawk easily accomplished the task in 11.6 seconds.

Although many believe that turbocharged four-cylinder engines are somewhat run of the mill, the engine in the new Mazda MX-5 Miata models is definitely different. The engine’s design reminds some of the capabilities of an Alfa Romeo or a Lotus-Ford twin cam. As such, drivers get a vehicle that is responsive and smooth.