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  • Certified Pre-Owned Chevrolet – Everything You Need To Know About CPO
    Why Buy Certified Pre-Owned?
    Chevrolet's Certified Pre-Owned, CPO, program has been available for many years.  And, when you break it down, buying a certified pre-owned Chevy can be a compelling proposition.

    In this iDriveSoCal Podcast, I go to Martin Chevrolet in Torrance, CA to get honest behind-the-scenes details on buying a certified pre-owned Chevrolet.  And you're going to want to listen closely to this one.

    That's because my friend Lewis Cook, who's the general manager of Martin Chevrolet, really doesn't hold anything back.  He even tells us exactly how much it costs Chevrolet dealers to certify a vehicle!  Click play below and enjoy. :0)

      
    Chevy Certified Pre-Owned - aka CPO
    Lewis: The factory gets involved heavily.  They go through this 172-point inspection.

    They go through a Carfax and DMV history and everything, really. I mean, they try to make this car as new as possible.

    You can get that interest rate close to what a new car interest rates are.  It takes that extra cost out of the picture.

    Tom:   Welcome to iDriveSoCal, the podcast, all about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California.

    Tom Smith here and I am excited to be at Martin Chevrolet in the Los Angeles suburb of Torrance, California, with Mr. Lewis Cook, General Manager.

    Lewis:  Hello!

    Chevy Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Podcast

    Tom:  And this report we are bringing to you, obviously live from Martin Chevrolet, but certified pre-owned, the benefits of Chevrolet certified preowned. The certified pre-owned programs have—what are they? They’ve been out for a while now, haven’t they?

    Lewis:  Yeah. I think each factory has some kind of rendition of a certified program.

    Tom:  Basically, it’s a pre-owned vehicle, but it’s a pre-owned vehicle that the factory kind of gives its blessing to at a—

    Lewis:  If you want to call it a blessing, okay.

    Tom:  [Laughs] At a higher level of specification, as far as the overall condition of the vehicle, right?

    Lewis:  Yeah. I joke about blessing and the reason is for—

    Tom:  Are we going to get religious now?

    Lewis:  This is actually pretty funny, and this is unscripted.

    My mechanic just walked in and he has a certified pre-owned checklist in his hand. I promise you, this is unscripted.
    Detailed Documentation to Certify a Pre-Owned Chevrolet
    Tom:  This is perfect!

    Lewis:  The reason why I say—

    Tom:  I know it’s unscripted because it’s like, he’s not wanting to come closer.

    Lewis:  He doesn’t want to come on camera. I’m not going to sign any—okay, I’ll sign it. But you need to leave this with me for a second, so give me a minute.

    The reason why I laugh at the blessing is if you can see this vehicle inspection and re-conditioning, I’ll show it.

    Tom:  Let’s get a close up of that.

    The actual 172-Point Inspection document!

    Lewis:  I’ll show the camera on the podcast.

    Tom:  On the audio podcast, let me show you this! You see this right here, what I’m talking about?

    Lewis:  You see this, guys? This is what I’m talking about. You say a blessing, I say curse. Not so much. I’m being facetious.

    Tom:  Understood.

    Lewis:  It’s a 172-point vehicle inspection and reconditioning form. It’s two pages. There’s a ton of checkmarks on here, so basically what happens—

    Tom:  And now it has the boss’s signature on it, too, so this is a no joke thing.
    172-Point Inspection for Every CPO Chevrolet
    Lewis:  No, it’s a no joke thing.

    The factory is so much behind this and they’re so concerned about the condition of ...
    20 min
  • Awesome Auto Show June
    Awesome Auto Shows in June here in Southern California?  Oh yeah, summer is huge for car shows!  Arguably June is the best month of the year for auto shows.  But, September is not too far behind.

    Here's our second annual report covering The Professor's Awesome Auto Show June!  And, if you simply cannot contain yourself the below list links to each of the shows on our events calendar:





    Friends of Steve McQueen Car Show
    Huntington Beach Concours d'Elegance
    San Marino Motor Classic
    Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance
    San Clemente Car Show
    Highway Earth Car Show
    Rods and Roses Car Show



    But, you really should continue reading or click play below and check out all the preview pictures.  And be sure to hit these shows - you will not be disappointed!




    Southern California's Best Summer Car Shows
    Tom: Welcome to iDriveSoCal the podcast, all about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California, Tom Smith here with the good profess, Mr. Clinton Quan. Say hello, Clinton.

    Professor: Hey, Tom.

    Tom: Hello my friend. This podcast, what are we covering right now? Oh, the Professor's awesome auto show June. Dun, dun, dun, dun!

    San Marino Motor Classic | Awesome June!

    For those of you that are new to the iDriveSoCal podcast, or new to the Professor and the auto shows, quick overview.

    iDriveSoCal, obviously we cover all things automotive, transportation, and from the home base here in Southern California, the automotive capital of not only the United States but the automotive capital of the world.
    The Professor's Awesome Auto Show June!
    Now, the good Professor is a car... I would say an uber automotive enthusiast. And so, he kind of curates that majority, probably like 95% of our I Drive SoCal events calendar.

    So, Mr. Quan, the Professor, is dialed into all of the very best automotive events year-round here in Southern California.

    Rodeo Concours Lamborghini 350 GT

    And when we first started this over a year ago, Clinton was saying, "Oh my god, June's going to be so awesome, there's this show, there's that show, there's this show, there's that... "

    So, we hatched the plan, hey, let's... make it something, we'll call it the Professor's Awesome Auto Show June, and dun, dun, dun, dun! My little... whatever. Yeah.

    Tom: So now that you're all completely on the edge of your seats, June is huge for auto shows.

    And the Professor has his favorite picks that we're going to share. I think there's a little bit of a difference between this year and last year based on some scheduling.

    Professor: Yes.

    Tom: So, without further ado, Professor, why don't you take it away.
    Friends of Steve McQueen Car Show
    Professor: Well let's start off with the first weekend in June, because there are two major events that take place.

    #48!

    The first one is going to be Saturday, June 1st, and that's going to be the Friends of Steve McQueen Car Show. And I believe this is the 12th annual event, started in 2008. And this takes place out in Chino Hills at the Boys Republic. Now, this is a school where Steven McQueen attended, and that's a major reason why the car show is held there.

    Tom: And it's for troubled youth kind of thing, or-

    Professor: Troubled teens.

    Tom: Or at risk, at risk-

    Professor: Yes.

    Tom: Okay.

    Professor Quan & Associate Professor

    Professor: Correct, yes.

    Tom: Kids that might be going down the wrong path, they go to this school. So Steve McQueen went to this school because he w...
    18 min
  • 2019 Chevrolet Colorado Review, Prices, Trims & Photos
    2019 Chevrolet Colorado Review
    The 2019 Chevrolet Colorado is a complete package that's difficult to resist.  Actually, let me restate that.  After driving the '19 Chevy Colorado I want to buy one - hands down.

    However, being a married man, there's more to the equation than simply what I want. :0)  But, if you're married, then you know.  And if you're not yet married - you'll find out.

    So, Chevy Colorado delivers a great combination of drivability, style, functionality, and command of the road.  It's big enough to get lots of jobs done while not being too big to drive all over Southern California on a regular basis.  Like I do, ahem, darling wife... :0)

    2019 Chevrolet Colorado Top-3
    1. Drivability
    2. Versatility
    3. Styling

    And now you can continue reading for my complete review of the 2019 Chevy Colorado or listen to the podcast versions by clicking play below.  Either way, check out all the pics from my test drive - courtesy of my friends at Martin Chevrolet.




    2019 Chevy Colorado Trim Options
    So, the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado is basically a small Silverado.  Perhaps that's a key ingredient why I fancy it so much... hmm.
    "Beyond providing the best deals they [Martin Chevrolet in Torrance] focus on assuring you buy what you want."
    And, being a truck and, being that we live in the United States our trucks must be available in every possible variety.  And the '19 Colorado definitely does not disappoint in the optional configuration category.  Chevrolet tries to keep the huge number of options as simple as possible... but frankly, that's a tall order.

    2019 Chevy Colorado LT Redline

    For example, if you want to dial-in exactly what you want - you should contact my friends at Martin Chevrolet.  Beyond providing the best deals they focus on assuring you buy what you want.  Not what they want to sell you like many other dealerships.  That's a big difference in the car buying game.

    Black bowtie Colorado - Martin Chevrolet, Torrance

    So there are three basic trim levels for the Chevy Colorado.  There's the Base, the Work Truck (WT) and the LT.  (BTW the LT in Chevrolet-speak stands for Luxury Touring.)  Starting manufacturer's suggested retail pricing below.


    2019 Chevrolet Colorado Trims & MSRPs:



    Base $21,300
    WT $24,800
    LT $27,600



    Special Edition Options:



    RST 
    Trail Runner
    Redline
    ZR1 Midnight
    ZR2s

    Bison
    Midnight
    Dusk





    Cab Options:



    Extended Cab
    Crew Cab (4-door)



    Bed Options:



    Short Box 61.70 inches
    Long Box 74.00 in



    '19 Chevrolet Colorado Engines, MPG & Towing
    The 2019 Chevy Colorado offers up three powerplants.  And of course, you also have the option of 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive.  Here's the breakdown for each of the three engines, with towing capacity and MPG ratings:


    '19 Chevy Colorado Power, MPG & Towing:

    2.5-liter 4-cylinder



    200-horsepower
    191 pound-feet of torque
    3,500-pound towing capacity
    20-MPG city & 26-MPG highway



    3.6-liter V6



    308-horsepower (best in class)
    275 lb-ft of torque
    7,000 lb towing capacity
    18-MPG city & 25-MPG highway



    2.8-liter Turbo-Diesel - GM's Exclusive Duramax



    181-horsepower
    369 lb-ft of torque
    7,
    20 min
  • Benedict Castle Concours
    Benedict Castle Concours
    For the past 6-years, the Benedict Castle Concours has brought together automotive enthusiasts for a great local cause.

    And that cause is the Teen Challenge substance abuse and recovery program.  It’s a non-profit with centers across all of Southern California.

    Additionally, the annual Inland Empire car show plays host to a wide variety of cars and car lovers.


    Upcoming Benedict Castle Concours event details HERE.

    iDriveSoCal’s Professor, Clinton Quan, attended this year’s soiree.  Click play below to hear his complete review and scroll through the gorgeous pics of automotive excellence below.


    6th Annual Benefit Car Show
    Clinton "The Professor" Quan: This Concours is a little bit more unique and I think the organizers of the event, they really wanted to capture the automotive community of Southern California and not just a specific genre of vehicle.

    The type of vehicles that you normally wouldn’t see at a Concours d’Elegance. This is the reason why it’s, I think, why it’s called just a Concours. 

    Classic Woody @ Benedict Castle Concours

    Tom Smith:  Welcome to iDriveSoCal, the podcast. All about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California. Tom Smith here with the good Professor, Mr. Clinton Quan. Say hello, Clinton.

    Professor:  Hey, Tom!

    Tom:  Hello, my friend! This podcast, as you know, because you clicked play, is on the Benedict Castle Concours. And what the Professor just explained to me—and I didn’t know, but he knows these things, that’s why I call him the Professor, that’s why we keep him around—the Benedict Castle Concours is not a Concours d’Elegance. A Concours d’Elegance and a Concours are apparently two different things.
    "...the Benedict Castle Concours is not a Concours d’Elegance. A Concours d’Elegance and a Concours are apparently two different things."
    Professor:  Yes.

    Tom:  And I did not know that. So, Professor, please enlighten us.
    Difference Between Concours and Concours d'Elegance
    Professor:  Well, most car shows that are a Concours, it is called a Concours d’Elegance, which translates to a competition of elegance, in French. So, usually, you’ll see very elegant automobiles on display. There could be 20, 25, 30 different classes of vehicles, and you’ll see a lot of the owners of the vehicles, they’ll dress up in that same time period as their vehicles.

    Chevrolet Corvette

    This Concours is a little bit more unique and I think the organizers of the event, they really wanted to capture the automotive community of Southern California and not just a specific genre of vehicle.

    Tom:  Okay.

    Professor:  They’re looking for muscle cars and exotics and hot rods, all types of vehicles. Maybe the type of vehicles that you normally wouldn’t see at a Concours d’Elegance. This is the reason why it’s, I think, why it’s called just a Concours.
    "They’re looking for muscle cars and exotics and hot rods, all types of vehicles. Maybe the type of vehicles that you normally wouldn’t see at a Concours d’Elegance."
    Tom:  And we just scrolled through the pictures that you took and some gorgeous automobiles, as always.

    Professor: There are a lot more cars there. That doesn’t really showcase all the vehicles that were on display, yes.

    Tom:  I’m sure you can’t picture all of them, right?

    Professor:  Yeah.

    Custom Volkswagen Bus
    Cars at the Benedict Castle Concours
    Tom:  So, give some examples of vehicles that are going to be at a Concours d’Elegance as opposed to a Concours.

    Professor:  A Concours d’Elegance, you’re really talking about some of the most expensive vehicles in the world.
    16 min
  • 2019 Chevrolet Blazer Podcast Review, Prices, Trims & Pics
    2019 Chevrolet Blazer Review
    We've reviewed the all-new 2019 Chevrolet Blazer and have found it to be a stylish and fun to drive crossover SUV.

    Most of us recall the Blazer name. Because Chevy has used it in a couple of previous versions. There was the compact S-10 Blazer and then going way back there was the full-sized K-5 Blazer.

    You'll see in our 2019 Chevy Blazer review that this car is now more of a crossover. Whereas its predecessors were definitely more of SUVs. But, that's really only in the more serious off-road department.

    2019 Chevrolet Blazer Top-3 Features
    1. Styling
    2. Tech
    3. Power

    My friends at Martin Chevrolet in Torrance, CA recently gave me a 2019 Blazer for a day of fun-driving around Southern California. Continue reading below or click play to listen to my review while scrolling through my '19 Chevy Blazer photo shoot.

    2019 Chevy Blazer review


    All-New 2019 Chevrolet Blazer Crossover SUV
    The rebooted 2019 Chevrolet Blazer that we reviewed comes in three primary trim options.  There's the base, the RS and the Premier.  If you go with the base then you have a few additional, call them sub-trim, options to chose from.


    2019 Chevrolet Blazer Trims & MSRPs:



    Base/L $29,995
    RS $41,795
    Premier $43,895



    As always, don't worry about MSRP.  The manufacturer's suggested retail price is only that.  The two things that are important.

    2019 Chevy Blazer review - front fender/bumper

    First, be sure to review your 2019 Chevrolet Blazer and get it equipped the way you want.  We spend way too much time in our cars here in Southern California to not love what we drive!
    Where to Buy - 2019 Chevrolet Blazer
    And second, go to Martin Chevrolet.  Hands down, this is the best place to buy a Chevy.  Of course, your price will be the best.  But Martin Chevy is led by my friend Lewis Cook.

    Talking w/ Lewis Cook, GM, Martin Chevy

    And I love his no-nonsense straightforwardness.  The first thing Lewis suggests when helping customers buy or lease cars is to get what you want!  (Of course, we all have a budget we need to work within.)  But getting the features you want is key to automotive happiness!


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    18 min
  • 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Review, Prices, Trims & Pics

    2019 VW Jetta GLI Review

    The long-anticipated 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI has officially made it to dealers like our partner in the Los Angeles suburb of Ontario, CA – Ontario Volkswagen. And we took it for a test drive to bring you this in-depth 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Review.

    The GLI is the enthusiasts, sporty model, of the Jetta.  Volkswagen updated its standard line of Jetta’s in the previous year.  So, with these 2019 models, Volkswagen marks the 7th generation of GLIs and Jettas.  And actually, in VW-lingo that’s ‘Mark 7 or Mk7.’

    2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Top-3

    1. Exterior Styling.
    2. The Drive.
    3. Warranty.

    My friends at Ontario VW gave me a Jetta GLI for a day recently.

    Here’s my complete report after running around Southern California’s Inland Empire and getting a feel for the all-new 2019 VW Jetta GLI!

    May 7, 2019

    Volkswagen Jetta GLI Review

    The Volkswagen Jetta GLI has historically been compared to its VW hatchback (hot hatch in VW-lingo) sibling the Golf GTI.  Why?

    Well, they’re both Volkswagens and both the sporty/enthusiasts trims of their respective models.  Personally, I like both for different reasons.  I’ll contrast the two vehicles, only once, in a moment.

    2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary Edition driver front

    With the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI being in its 7th generation that equates to 35-years here in the United States.

    And those 35-years are honored in one of the trim options for the 2019 VW Jetta GLI.  And, it just so happens that, my test-driver was a 35th Anniversary Edition GLI.

    Jetta GLI & Golf GTI

    So here’s the cool comparison I’m going to give the 2019 VW Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary Edition and the 2019 Golf GTI Rabbit Edition.

    Volkswagen’s stylish, yet in-the-know and subtle seat tags.

    ’19 VW Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary seat tag

    Okay, one other comparison, with the GTI and the GLI both being the sporty trims, is the very cool red line across the grills of both vehicles.

    ’19 VW Golf GTI Rabbit Edition seat tag

    It’s in all sorts of pics.  BTW, wondering what GTI and GLI stand for?

    2019 VW Jetta GLI badge

    Those are acronyms for Grand Touring Injection and Grand Luxury Injection.

    2019 VW Golf GTI badge

    So to put the comparisons of the Jetta GLI and the Golf GTI to rest, at least for this post, the Golf is going to be sportier and a hatchback.

    Whereas the Jetta GLI is a sedan and slightly less aggressive.

    Trim Options & Pricing

    The ’19 VW Jetta GLI is offered in three different trims.

    2019 VW Jetta GLI Trims & MSRPs:

      • S (base model) $25,995
      • 35th Anniversary Edition $26,995
      • Autobahn $29,195
      • As always, don’t worry about the MSRP – manufacturer’s suggested retail price – for two reasons.  First, you need to get your ’19 VW Jetta GLI equipped to your specifications.

        And more importantly, go see my friends at Ontario Volkswagen.  Beyond putting you in the car you want and at the best price, they’re not going to play any of the old school (or new school!) games.

        2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary front

        The guys and gals at Ontario Volkswagen are my friends and I’m happy to personally introduce you.  Just email me tom [at] idrivesocal [dot] com.

        Powertrain & MPG

        Volkswagen’s 2019 Jetta GLI comes with the same engine across all three trims.

        That’s a 2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that puts out 228-horsepower with 258 lb-ft of torque.

        2019 VW Jetta GLI 35 passenger profile

        The ’19 Jetta GLI comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission.  And I love driving manual on open roads and low-traffic conditions.

        Of course, here in Southern California, we’re hardpressed to find either of those settings.  So the optional 7-speed automatic transmission is probably the way to go.

        2019 VW Jetta GLI 35 Ontario VW plate

        My test driver hand the automatic transmission option and it’s Tiptronic shifting offered the fun and control of manual while delivering the convenience of automatic.

        What’s even better are the paddle shifters.  Even in normal drive mode, I spun the tires with the paddles.  In sport mode, you can easily smoke the rubber.

        2019 VW Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary driver rear

        And with the 2019 VW Jetta GLI still being a Volkswagen, great fuel economy comes standard.   All the trims and engines are rated the same at 25-miles-per-gallon in the city and 32-miles-per-gallon on the highway.

        Review of the 2019 VW Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary Edition

        Like usual, the Ontario Volkswagen team set me up in a gorgeous, well-equipped test driver.  The 35th Anniversary Edition is super-eye-catching, especially in the Pure Gray color they gave me.

        But really, you can’t go wrong with any of the colors, (red, white, black, gray, & silver) VW offers for the ’19 Jetta GLI.  All of them look fantastic with the red highlighted GLI badging.

        2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35 exterior badge

        Another nod to the 35th Anniversary Edition, in addition to the seat tags mentioned above, is the exterior badging on both sides of the Jetta GLI.

        2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35 5-spoke wheel

        And the 18″ 5-spoke gray-painted wheels, on the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary Edition, with red accents, looked great especially with the red brake calipers visible.

        2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI: Driving Review

        Driving the enthusiasts’ version of the 2019 Jetta was a blast.  Exactly as, I’m sure, Volkswagen intended.  The GLI is quick.  From a dead stop, you can really feel the torque.

        And that goes the same for when you’re on the highway and want to pass someone.  In both cases, it also sounds great when doing so!  Even more so in the Sport mode when the GLI gets a little ‘throaty.’

        2019 VW Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary Edition passenger front

        My test driver, the 35th Anniversary Edition, also had Volkswagen’s Dynamic Chasis Control (DCC) giving it a very sure-footed and stable feel when handling at any speed.

        2019 VW Jetta GLI 35 driver profile

        So, between the power and enhanced ability to handle it the ’19 VW Jett GLI delivers a whole lot of fun starting at under $30k.  And again, that’s just MSRP, go see my friends at Ontario VW for the best deal you’ll find.

        ’19 VW Jetta GLI Review: Exterior

        The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is distinctive and sharp in its styling.  LED headlines and daytime running lights lend further accent to the great design lines and the red GLI accent line that screams performance.

        2019 VW Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary front close up

        Black painted side mirrors and a thin rear spoiler are nice additional touches.

        Chrome exhaust tips and LED taillights give the Jetta GLI a look that’s every bit equal to its performance.

        2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35 passenger rear

        And the 2019 VW Jetta GLI is a little more than half-an-inch lower than the regular Jetta.  And the 5-spoke rims with red accents and brake calipers are worth restating here – very sporty yet stylish.

        Reviewing the Interior of the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

        Moving inside the 7th generation VW Jetta GLI you have a handsome cockpit and dash with an awesome flat-bottom steering wheel.

        2019 VW Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary rear to front dash

        The 35th Anniversary Edition comes with cloth interior and heated front seats.

        If you step up to the Autobahn you get leather and both heated and ventilated front seats – a favorite feature of Mr. and Mrs. Smith’s. :0)

        2019 VW Jetta GLI stainless steel pedals

        The 35th Anniversary did have the stainless steel pedal covers – which adds another great looking dimension to the inside.

        ’19 VW Jetta GLI 35 backseat child safety seat latches

        And I have to point out the awesome accessibility of the child safety seat latches in the backseat.

        This is another favorite feature of mine that VW brings to its vehicles.

        ’19 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35 backseat

        There’s plenty of human-space throughout the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI – just like the regular Jetta.

        And while there’s ample trunk cargo-space as well VW engineering takes the Jetta’s versatility to the next level.

        ’19 VW Jetta GLI 35 trunk

        The trunk turns into a huge cavern by dropping the backseats.

        ’19 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35 trunk w. both backseats down

        By allowing both backseats to fold way-down there’s a huge access-point between the trunk and the interior of the vehicle’s backseat area.

        ’19 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Review: Technology

        The 35th Anniversary Edition I test drove didn’t have Volkswagen’s new digital cockpit.  But that is an available option that I’d probably add on to my purchase.

        It goes nicely with the 10-color interior accent lighting.  Since my test drive was during the day I didn’t get any pictures of that but it gives the Jetta GLI a very classy look in the evening.

        2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary Edition dashboard

        Apple CarPlay and Android Auto play key roles in the technology stack in the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI.

        And the touch-screen interface with dials brings all the tech to your fingertips in a very user-friendly and intuitive way.

        2019 VW Jetta GLI 35 instrument cluster

        And while Volkswagen adds the Fender brand name to its SUVs (Tiguan and Atlas), the ’19 VW Jetta GLI gets boosted in the audio department by the beats name brand!

        2019 VW Jetta GLI Review: Driver Assistance & Safety

        The ’19 Jetta GLI delivers some of VW’s top driver assistance tech features to help keep you safe on the roads.

        “The ’19 Jetta GLI delivers some of VW’s top driver assistance tech features to help keep you safe on the roads.”

        Blind Spot Monitoring will alert you to vehicles you can’t see when changing lanes.  Front assist will audibly alert you of potential front-end collisions.

        And Rear Traffic Alert keeps you in the know when backing up.  It can even brake for you to avoid accidents.

        ’19 Volkswagen Jetta GLI & The People First Warranty

        VW describes it’s ‘The People First Warranty’ as America’s Best Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty and it’s rather tough to dispute.

        “The People First Warranty… 6-Years/72,000-miles and the fact that it’s transferable too is impressive.”

        6-Years/72,000-miles and the fact that it’s transferable too is impressive.  That definitely delivers extra peace of mind – especially if you’re buying rather than leasing.

        2019 VW Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary Review | Top-3
        1. Exterior Styling – All trims of the 2019 VW Jetta GLI look awesome.  I love the 35th Anniversary badging.  Gotta go with the 5-spoke painted wheels with red accents
        2. The Drive – ’19 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is a fun car to drive.  The turbocharged power, torque, and paddle shifters provide an exceptional performance package.
        3. Warranty – Of the many additional options to include in the ’19 Jetta GLI the People First Warranty just can’t be taken for granted.  It adds big value.
          Ontario Volkswagen

          If the 2019 VW Jetta GLI or any Volkswagen is of interest to you then you have to connect with my friends at Ontario Volkswagen.

          They’re located just off I-15 at I-10 and at OntarioVW.com.

          2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35 rear

           

          All The Latest Volkswagen News HERE.

          18 min
        4. Lease Or Buy Chevrolet? Top SoCal Dealer Reveals Secrets
          Lease or Buy - Chevrolet?
          Should you lease or buy when it comes to Chevrolet vehicles?  Or any vehicle for that matter.

          In recent years, leasing vs. buying has been on the rise.  And for lots of good reasons.  For instance, who doesn't like getting a new car every few years?

          Also, always having a newer car that's covered under a factory warranty offers a great feeling of protection.  And then there's the element of being able to afford a little nicer car for a little lower payment... the list of 'pros' to leasing versus buying goes on.

          However, there are cons to leasing versus buying.  Personally, I don't think the cons outweigh the pros... but I used to.  That's why I love sitting down with experts to discuss this very topic.

          In this iDriveSoCal Podcast, we get the lowdown on leasing versus buying from Lewis Cook, General Manager of Martin Chevrolet.  Click play below to hear the details.  (BTW - I think this report is a listen rather than a read... but consume it as you wish.  I also lease instead of buy! :0))


          ***Transcription***
          Recorded at Martin Chevrolet, Torrance, CA

          Lease Or Buy Chevrolet?
          Lewis: You ultimately are paying less interest, that’s cool, for a lot of people - for everybody.

          On a lease, you don’t pay the tax upfront. It’s another huge part of the savings that you get from leasing.
          "...paying less interest... you don't pay tax up front... an option at the end of a lease to purchase the vehicle if you want."
          You have an option at the end of that lease to purchase the vehicle if you want. When you come and you’re going to lease again, you find, if you are over mileage...  there’s a good chance that the dealer can absorb some of that.

          Tom: Welcome back to iDriveSoCal, the podcast, all about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California.

          Behind the Scenes on Leasing with Lewis Cook.

          Tom here and I am very excited to be sitting down and recording a podcast with my friend, Lewis Cook, General Manager here at Martin Chevrolet in the Los Angeles suburb of Torrance, California, right off of Hawthorne Boulevard.
          "When you come and you’re going to lease again, you find, if you are over mileage...  there’s a good chance that the dealer can absorb some of that."
          So I’m really, really excited to be working with Lewis and Martin Chevrolet for the proximity reason, but also because these guys are just awesome, and Lewis is a fantastic human being!

          Lewis: Your intros are getting better and better!

          Can we do that again? [Laughs] It just feels good. Don’t worry, we got it recorded.


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          24 min
        5. Classic Auto Show 2019 Complete Report And Podcast
          You might think there's no room for newcomers in the world of Southern California auto shows but luckily the organizers of the Classic Auto Show didn't think so.

          And we're glad they took the plunge hosting their first event in Los Angeles three years ago.  For their 3rd Annual Classic Auto Show, they moved the venue down to Orange County.

          We dispatched iDriveSoCal's Professor, Clinton Quan, and his Associate Professor, pictured below to check out the show.  They came back with this complete report.  Click play to listen below or continue reading and check out the great Classic Auto Show pictures.


          ***Transcription***
          Recorded in Los Angeles, CA

          3rd Annual Classic Auto Show
          Clinton "The Professor" Quan: It’s an outdoor and indoor venue, so they had cars that were inside and outside as well and there were over 2,000 vehicles that were on display.

          There were car clubs that were represented at the event, there are muscle cars, there’s hotrods, antiques, classics, a wide range of vehicles.  Adam Carolla was the grand marshal for the event.

          1972 Alpine

          Tom Smith: Welcome to iDriveSoCal, the podcast. All about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California. Tom Smith here with the good Professor, Mr. Clinton Quan. Say hello, Clinton!

          Professor: Hey, Tom!

          Tom: Hello, my friend. This podcast—it’s been a while. Good to see you.
          "...there are muscle cars, there’s hotrods, antiques, classics, a wide range of vehicles.  Adam Carolla was the grand marshal for the event."
          Professor: Good seeing you, too. Yeah, it’s been quite some time.

          Tom: Podcast listeners totally know that it’s been a while.

          Professor: They don’t.

          Tom: But thank you for tuning in. Thank you for listening. This podcast is about the Classic Auto Show.
          Cars Show that Makes The Cut
          The good Professor hits all of the top auto shows, has very discriminating taste
          when it comes to all things automotive.

          He knows what shows—there are tons of shows to hit throughout the year and that’s going to be another whole podcast.

          Professor: Absolutely.

          1954 Citroen

          Tom: But there are tons, I mean, every weekend there’s shows to hit, right?

          Professor: There are automotive events that literally take place every single weekend in Southern California.

          Tom: Professor Quan here…
          If you’re a new listener, I call Clinton the Professor because he just keeps his finger on the pulse of everything coming out of all the manufacturers.
          "This year they decided to move it to Orange County in Cosa Mesa at the OC Fair and Event Center."
          Domestic, import, luxury, exotics, supercars, you name it. I mean, he goes to shows like regularly.

          Pretty much every weekend, he’s seeing something automotive-related. If he’s not, that’s the anomaly in his life.

          This is cool, because we then leverage that expertise into iDriveSoCal. Clinton, for the most part, curates iDriveSoCal’s events calendar. Thank you for doing that.

          Porsche 356 Speedster

          And any big events that are worthy…

          Because again, all you have to do is Google and you can find something automotive-related.

          Something going on every Saturday, every Sunday, of the year, somewhere in Southern California, hands down, no problem.

          The thing is, which ones do I want to go to? That’s why I come to iDriveSoCal, to find the gems.

          One of them that we covered recently, The Best of France and Italy? Or is it Italy and France?
          The Best of France and Italy
          Professor: The Best of France and Italy, yes, you are correct.

          Tom: The Best of France and Italy.
          15 min
        6. 2019 Chevrolet Silverado Review, Prices, Trims & Pics
          2019 Chevrolet Silverado Review
          The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 doesn't appear to be all-new at first glance, or even second for that matter.

          But when you dive into the details it's clear to see that Chevy worked hard to magnify what was already great about the Silverado 1500 and make the overall product even better.

          I recently spent a day with an all-new 2019 Chevy Silverado courtesy of our friends at Martin Chevrolet in Torrance, CA.

          2019 Chevy Silverado Top-3
          1. The Drive
          2. Interior
          3. Power

          Continue reading below for my complete review or click play to listen to the podcast version.  Either way, check out the pictures from my afternoon drive along the Pacific Coast right here in SoCal!

          2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Review


          April 26, 2019



          The All-New 2019 Chevy Silverado Review


          If you've ever shopped for a new full-sized pick-up truck then you know there are seemingly endless configuration possibilities.

          And, it makes sense, when you consider that this vehicle segment accounts for around 14% of all new vehicles sold in the United States each year.

          Hello '19 Silverado! (review)

          Additionally, the Chevrolet Silverado's eight ( yes, 8) different trim options also make sense.  Because the Chevy Silverado makes up a huge percentage of that 14% I just mentioned.

          So, it's important to have something for everyone.

          2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 review - Can-do powerful stance.

          So, here are the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado trim options.  Starting with the Silverado Work Truck (WT) that a country club groundskeeper might drive.  And, going all the way up to the High Country that a billionaire oil tycoon would feel very comfortable tooling around in.


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          19 min
        7. 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan Review, Prices, Trims, Features And Pics

          In this 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan review, we take a look at VW’s new compact SUV that’s as stylish as it is big!  So big that VW even offers up the option for the third row of seating.  And so stylish that many find it more appealing than Volkswagen’s former Toureg model.

          Additionally, this second-generation Tiguan comes in a trim level to suit every driver’s needs.  Even offering up the sporty R-Line package!

          2019 VW Tiguan Top-3:

          1. Exterior Styling

          2. Interior Tech & Design
          3. Engine Power & Torque

          We picked up a 2019 VW Tiguan to review from our friends at Ontario Volkswagen for a recent fun day of driving Southern California.  Click play below to hear the complete details in our podcast or you can continue reading below and check out the pictures from our test drive.

          2019 Volkswagen Tiguan Review

          April 24, 2019

          2019 Volkswagen Tiguan Review

          Clinton “The Professor” Quan: This is one of the biggest compact, crossovers on the market.  That extra third row, it’s a nice feature to have.

          This is one of the most attractive compact crossovers out there.  I’m a huge fan of the interior as well.  It’s got plenty of torque, plenty of pick up, very, very smooth.

          “We’re looking at about 22-city, 29-highway… that’s solid for a vehicle this big, because this is one of the biggest compact, crossovers on the market.”

          Tom: Welcome to iDriveSoCal the Podcast, all about mobility from the automotive capital of the United States, Southern California. Tom Smith here with the good Professor, Mr. Clinton Quan. Say hello Clinton.

          Bold new Tiguan!

          Professor: Hey Tom.

          Tom: Hello my friend. This podcast is a vehicle review, the good Professor, Mr. Quan went on out to our friends at Ontario Volkswagen in the Los Angeles suburb of Ontario, California, just off the 15 there and he picked himself up a Volkswagen Tiguan.

          Tiguan Toureg Comparison

          And I’ve been eyeballing that Tiguan I tell you. I recently drove the Atlas and obviously the Tiguan is the Atlas’s smaller sibling, but I’ve seen a Tiguan sitting next to a Touareg and we talked about this a little bit. A lot of people love the Touareg. The Touareg’s no longer, but it’s still an awesome truck.

          But the Tiguan looks just about as big as the Touareg when you’re looking at them side by side from the rear. Now I know they’re not. I know that the Touareg’s still a little bigger.

          Tiguan design is reminiscent of Touareg

          Professor: Just a little bit bigger.

          Tom: Yeah, but we were talking and I don’t think you looked this up, I didn’t look it up.

          I’ll bet with the enhanced engineering technology as far as the interior goes, that the current Tiguan has more interior people and cargo space than the past Touareg.

          Professor: I wouldn’t be surprised.

          “…the new Tiguan is so much bigger. It’s a little over a foot longer than the previous Tiguan.”

          Tom: Probably just a little bit of trivia, but nevertheless, to kind of bridge the gap of Volkswagen before and Volkswagen now.

          Professor: And that’s I think another reason why the Touareg was discontinued because the new Tiguan is so much bigger. It’s a little over a foot longer than the previous Tiguan.

          Tom: Yeah, it’s a much bigger vehicle. So at any rate, out to Ontario Volkswagen, picked up the Tiguan…

          Thanks to our partners at Ontario Volkswagen, Mr. Earl Reed, General Manager, Randy Halcomb, our go-to guy, Shant Bashian, General Sales Manager, Jim Straley, Service Director, love everybody at Ontario Volkswagen.

          For all your Volkswagen needs, head on out to Ontario Volkswagen, just off the 15, in the Los Angeles suburb of Ontario, California.

          That being said, Professor, take it away.

          Tiguan Trim Levels

          Professor: Yes, I drove the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan, SEL Premium which is one of the top-of-the-line trims in the Tiguan family.

          There’s let’s see, six different trims, well if you include all the different… if you include the four motion trims, then you’re really looking at probably like nine or ten different trims.

          Tom: They have something for everybody the way that they section off all of the various trims. So let’s go base to tippity-top and all the variations as you can, off the top of your head.

          Tiguan Trims & Manufacturer Suggested Retail Pricing*:

          • Tiguan S, starting MSRP $24,295
          • S with 4Motion MSRP $25,595
          • SE $26,695
            • with 4Motion $27,995
            • SEL $31,795
                • with 4Motion $33,095
                • R-Line $33,645
                • R-Line with 4Motion $34,945
                • Premium with 4Motion $37,195
                • Premium R-Line with 4Motion $38,895
                • *Don’t worry about MSRP – go see my friends at Ontario VW! 

                  Professor: Got it. So, for our 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan review, we’re gonna start off with the base trim which is the S, and that starts off at about $24000.

                  Then you move up to the SE and that goes for about $27000 and both of those have the analog cockpit. From there you move up to the SEL which has the digital cockpit and that runs for about $32000.

                  Then, there is an SEL R-Line and that runs for about $34000. And so, all of these first four trims that I mention, they also have a 4-Motion option.

                  Stylish from every angle!

                  Tom: Option. And 4Motion is their all-wheel drive.

                  Professor: It’s their all-wheel drive. It’s like Audi’s Quattro. And that’ll add about $1300 to each of the trims that I just mentioned.

                  Then you go up to the SEL Premium and that comes standard with four motion and that runs for about $37000 and then the very, very top of the line is the SEL Premium R-Line and that goes for about $39000.

                  2019 Tiguan Options

                  Tom: Now the R-Line is basically an aesthetic sports package, meaning it’s badging on the outside and in, but it looks nice.

                  Professor: It looks really nice, especially with those larger rims. You’ll get the 19 or the 20-inch rims with that.

                  Tom: Yeah, I like the R-Lines.

                  ‘…4Motion is Volkswagen’s all-wheel drive.  Like Audi’s Quattro.’

                  Professor: Yeah, the R-Line looked fantastic during our 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan review. I really, really like the R-Line.

                  Tom: So it’s just the two top trims that come with four motion, standard?

                  Optional 3rd Row VW Tiguan

                  Professor: Standard equipment, yeah. You wouldn’t be able to get that without the 4Motion. All the other trims that I mentioned previously, you can get it without the 4Motion.

                  Tom: You can get in two-wheel drive and that two-wheel drive’s gonna be front-wheel drive.

                  Professor: Yes, correct. It’ll be front-wheel drive.

                  4Motion All-Wheel Drive

                  Tom: But you know hey, for 1,300 bucks, might as well get it I think right?

                  Professor: Yes. Well, a lot of people, especially in California, they don’t really need it and most people who buy crossovers and SUVs now, they don’t get the all-wheel drive.

                  You get a little bit of weight savings with that.

                  “The first one doesn’t even come close to this one, absolutely, exponentially better.”

                  Tom: You get a little bit of weight savings and you’re a little bit worse off in fuel economy which I want to get to in just a second, but to your point, because you always mention that, in L.A. don’t really need it and I agree.

                  My first four-wheel-drive vehicle, SUV, in L.A., I had for six years and I took off the road a total of zero times. However, being from the Midwest, now the present company excluded, you can drive. There’s a lot of Southern Californians who can’t or not very well. My beautiful wife… I won’t even go any further.

                  2019 VW Tiguan passenger profileBut so, with that in mind and the rainy season and the very poor drainage that we have on the roads, for 1300 bucks and not a big difference in fuel economy, getting that four-motion, all-wheel drive, not a terrible idea for some people.

                  “…the Tiguan does have available third-row seating. That’s big.”

                  Not a terrible idea. It’s going to give you better control of the road, significantly more surefootedness in certainly gravel situations, loose terrain, but especially the rainy, wet season, which we just had a heck of a one here.

                  Professor: Yeah, we had a big wet… pretty big rainy season.

                  2019 Volkswagen Tiguan MPG review

                  Tom: I just wanted to note that. But now getting back on track, fuel economy, what are we looking at?

                  Professor: We’re looking at about 22-city, 29-highway.

                  “We’re looking at about 22-city, 29-highway.”

                  Tom: Okay, that’s solid.

                  Professor: Yeah, that’s solid for a vehicle this big, because this is one of the biggest compact, crossovers on the market.

                  Probably the biggest one on the market among the compact crossovers. It even has available third-row seating on certain-

                  Optional Third-Row Seating

                  Tom: That’s right, the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan does have available third-row seating. That’s big.

                  Professor: That’s big too.

                  “It’s very well proportioned. I think it looks great from every angle, whether you’re looking at the front, the side, the back…”

                  Tom: That’s a big plus.

                  Professor: That’s a big plus for a lot of families who want that extra third row when maybe they’ll need it once every few weeks or so or once a month but it’s a nice feature to have.

                  Tom: Yeah. Next, the outside. Take us around. What do we see?

                  2nd Generation Exterior Styling

                  Professor: Well I think the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the most attractive compact crossovers out there.

                  Tom: Agreed.

                  Professor: I love the clean, modern, contemporary design.

                  2019 VW Tiguan driver rear

                  It’s very well proportioned. I think it looks great from every angle, whether you’re looking at the front, the side, the back, the three-quarter front or the three-quarter rear.

                  I don’t think there’s a bad angle on this vehicle.

                  Tom: Agreed, 100%.

                  Professor: Big fan of the design.

                  Tom: The Tiguan, this is the second generation, is it not?

                  Professor: Yes.

                  Tom: Okay and I think this generation looks exponentially better than the first generation.

                  Professor: Oh, it blows away the first generation. It’s night and day.

                  The first one doesn’t even come close to this one, absolutely, exponentially better.

                  2019 Tiguan Interior

                  Tom: Inside?

                  Professor: The inside. I’m a huge fan of the interior as well. While reviewing the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan I really liked what they’ve done with the interior. How the center stack, it’s angled towards the driver. You know-

                  Tom: You love that.

                  Professor: How I’m a big fan of that. So it’s got that big screen.

                  2019 VW Tiguan backseat

                  This one had the virtual cockpit as we mentioned earlier. The upper trims have that and it’s got really clean crisp graphics.

                  I wasn’t necessarily a big fan of this when I first saw it on a number of vehicles but after seeing this in the VW, I was very, very impressed.

                  And all of the buttons, the controls, switches, they’re all right there at your fingertips. So it’s got excellent ergonomics and there’s plenty of space.

                  It looks almost like an Audi inside, especially the top of the line trims.

                  “…all of the buttons, the controls, switches, they’re all right there at your fingertips. So it’s got excellent ergonomics and there’s plenty of space.”

                  Tom: Yeah, Volkswagen, there you go.

                  Professor: And during my 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan review I loved the massive moon roof as well. Gives it-

                  Tom: That is big right?

                  Professor: It gives it a… it makes it feel a lot more spacious inside.

                  VW Tiguan Technology

                  Tom: So, 2019 VW Tiguan technology. We already touched on it a couple of times, but the digital cockpit. That is a big thing for Volkswagen.

                  I think it’s not only a big thing for Volkswagen, I think it’s gonna be a big thing for everybody in the not so distant future.

                  2019 Volkswagen Tiguan cockpit

                  I think Volkswagen’s ahead of the curve on the digital dash, especially as more vehicles become hybrids and more vehicles become certainly electrics. The digital dash is just going to be I think, the norm.

                  Professor: Yeah, you’re seeing that in a lot of the luxury vehicles.

                  So, you’re definitely going to see that in the non-luxury vehicles coming up.

                  “…I really like what they’ve done with the interior. How the center stack, it’s angled towards the driver.”

                  And, I’m trying to think of another compact crossover in this segment that has a digital cockpit and I can’t think of anyone off the top of my head.

                  I believe this is the only one in its class that has that digital cockpit.

                  Tom: The only non-luxury. I can’t think of any.

                  Professor: Yeah, nothing. I can’t think of anything… nothing that comes to mind right now.

                  Volkswagen Digital Cockpit

                  Tom: And before the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan review, I kept on telling you, let’s call it the right thing. Is its digital cockpit, and then I just started calling it digital dash, didn’t I? Perfect. Good job Tom.

                  To explain what the digital cockpit does is, I mean, it’s exactly what it sounds like. But instead of the two big circular gauges that you would have.

                  Professor: Tachometer and speedometer.

                  Tom: Right for your RPMs and your miles per hour. Instead of those, it’s a digital screen in either scenario and highly configurable.

                  “…this is the only one in its class that has that digital cockpit.”

                  Professor: That’s a big advantage right there.

                  Tom: Now we don’t have anybody in the Audi space that we work with or Porsche, but those are both in the Volkswagen family upstream.

                  Professor: Yes.

                  Tom: Are they big in digital cockpits right now already?

                  Professor: Oh yeah. Audi’s definitely doing it.

                  Tom: So, they’ve already been there, done that.

                  Volkswagen Tiguan Digital Cockpit

                  Professor: Yeah, that’s why it’s coming down to the Volkswagen vehicles.

                  Tom: That makes sense, that makes sense.

                  Professor: Yeah, if you look at the A8, A7, A6-

                  Tom: And they’ve been doing it for a while?

                  Professor: More recently in the past several years. Yeah, the Q5. So the Q5 is the compact crossover from Audi. Very similar in size to the Tiguan.

                  2019 Tiguan Engine & Drive

                  Tom: All right. How’d it drive?

                  Professor: Oh, it drives great. It’s got, I don’t think we mentioned the engine. It’s got a 2.0 liter inline, four-cylinder turbocharged.

                  Tom: I meant to ask you about that. Are we across the board that same engine?

                  Professor: It is the same engine across the board on all trim levels.

                  2019 VW Tiguan driver front

                  Professor: Yeah. During our 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan review, we found that it pumps out 184 horsepower, but more importantly, it cranks out 221 pound-feet of torque. So it’s got plenty of torque, plenty of pick up, very, very smooth.

                  Tom: If you have that third row, all that torque will be put to use. But that is a lot of torque, isn’t it?

                  Professor: Yes. And I felt like it had plenty of power.

                  “…I drove it up to Lake Arrowhead up on the twisty mountain roads and it handled well and plenty of power going uphill.”

                  Even though it’s a big compact crossover vehicle.  It handled very well. I drove it up to Lake Arrowhead up on the twisty mountain roads and it handled well and plenty of power going uphill.

                  Tom: The Professor. He’s always taking his test drives some exotic, southern California location. I’m just like taking mine wherever is…

                  Professor: I’m getting the full experience.

                  Tom: Yeah, absolutely, absolutely. The professor is thorough in his vehicle reviews.

                  2019 VW Tiguan Warranty

                  Okay, so that brings us to the one thing that I think we need to touch on more in our Ontario Volkswagen vehicle reviews and that is the Volkswagen People First Warranty.

                  Professor: Six years, 72000 miles.

                  Tom: Bumper to bumper.

                  ‘…Volkswagen’s People First Warranty.  6-Years / 72,000-miles transferable!’

                  Professor: Bumper to bumper.

                  Tom: Now the key thing about that, it’s okay-

                  Professor: That’s the key thing, bumper to bumper.

                  iDriveSoCal’s contact @ Ontario VW

                  Randy Halcomb

                  RHalcomb [at] OntarioVW [dot] com

                  909-772-1728

                  Tom: Bumper to bumper, right, and I mean, lots of vehicles have three year, 36000 miles.

                  So we’re already doubling that, right? Boom. But the big thing is that not only is it double what most are, it’s also transferrable. That’s big.

                  Professor: That’s big, yeah.

                  Tom: So, need to point that out. With that in mind, unless there’s anything else, the top three.

                  Top-3 | 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan

                  Professor: Top three.

                  I’m gonna have to definitely go with the exterior styling of the vehicle.

                  As soon as I saw the new Tiguan, I was very, very impressed with the design. I love the way it looks as I mentioned earlier from all angles. Really clean, modern, contemporary design.

                  Second, I’m going with the interior.

                  2019 VW Tiguan review Top-3:

                  1. Exterior – clean, modern, contemporary design.
                  2. Interior – ergonomics, high-tech digital cockpit and big screen navi.
                  3. Engine – power and torque with all-wheel drive and great fule economy!

                  I’ve been a big fan of Volkswagen ergonomics for a long time and they did another fantastic job and this one, they decided to go really high tech with the digital cockpit and they’ve got that really big screen for the navigation system.

                  So that’s really, really nice.

                  Tom: Oh, that’s right and on the center stack, big screen.

                  Professor: Yeah.

                  Tom: Yeah, we didn’t even mention that.

                  Professor: Center stack and it’s angled towards the driver.  So, it’s got great ergonomics.

                  And then third I’m going with the engine, especially with that torque and then you’re still getting great fuel economy, especially for a crossover with all-wheel drive.

                  Tom: All right, very nice.

                  Ontario Volkswagen in Ontario, California

                  Professor, thank you so much as always. That was the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan as reviewed by our good friend, Mr. Clinton Quan, aka the Professor.

                  Our thanks as always to our friends at Ontario Volkswagen, just off the 15 in the Los Angeles suburb of Ontario, California.

                  2019 Volkswagen Tiguan rear

                  Mr. Earl Reed, General Manager, Randy Halcomb, our go-to for iDriveSoCal, Shant Bashian, the General Sales Manager, Jim Straley, the Service Director.

                  Just a fine group of people out there at Ontario Volkswagen, we love working with you guys.

                  For iDriveSoCal, I am Tom Smith. Thank you, Professor, and thank you very much for listening.

                   

                  The Latest Volkswagen News HERE.

                  18 min

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                Mobility news from the automotive capital of the world – Southern California.