aa decisive winter 2013 v4

d

Winter Issue

DECISIVE

速

The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News

2013 Cadillac ATS Urban Car Of The Year!

Urban Autos of The Year Reviewed:

Also Inside:

High Tech Bedrooms

Free IRS Tax Advice

> 2013 Cadillac ATS > 2013 Ram 1500 > 2013 Tesla Model S Hyatt Carmel Highlands

Urban Wheel Awards Special Issue: Celebrating Women In The Auto Industry!

We Drive:

> 2013 Buick Verano > 2013 Jaguar XJ AWD > 2013 Toyota Avalon > 2013 VW Jetta Hybrid

Get Your Subscription to Decisive Digital at www.DecisiveMagazine.com

cad i ll a c .c om /at s ©2012 General Motors. All rights reserved. Cadillac ® ATS ®

AT L AS M O U N TA I N S , M O R O C C O

T h e r e ’ s A s e r p e n T i n dA d è s g o r g e t Hat c a N sWa llo W V E H i c l Es W H o l E .

A single glance at the slithering pavement can twist

before the ATS slices through the switchback.

a stomach into knots. This isn’t

Setting a blistering

a leap of faith. This is a test of

pace, the driver’s right foot

will. Dadès Gorge, in Morocco’s

relentlessly pummels the

Atlas Mountains, poses a most

accelerator and brake pedal.

formidable challenge for the race-

Turn 50 turns into turn 75.

inspired front Brembo® brakes available on the all-new

Each time he touches the pedal, the Brembo brakes

Cadillac ATS. 100 turns. Three miles. Less than zero

respond as if they’ve been tapped in the knee.

opportunity for the brakes to catch their breath.

Every horse under the hood stampedes down into the teeth of the first turn. The driver hits the brake pedal, instantly corralling all forward momentum

98…99…100. The brakes haven’t broken a sweat. In a rare turn, the serpent’s stomach growls.

The all-new Cadillac ATS. Setting the standard in every corner on earth.

d

DECISIVE

®

The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News Volume 5 | Issue 1 | winter On the Cover: 2013 Cadillac ATS – Urban Car of The Year

06 08 10 12 16 26 28

features IRS Offers Free Tax Preparation

It’s bad enough we have to pay taxes, why should we pay to find out how much we owe too? For 2013, the IRS is offering some relief in this regard — if you qualify.

The High Tech Boudoir

Tech is infiltrating every aspect of our lives, so it makes sense there’d be some cool technological developments for the bedroom too. Computer control is everywhere.

A Monterey Peninsula Getaway

Yeah, all the car people converge on this area in August. That’s why you should go in March. All the beauty is still there, and there’s more room to appreciate it too...

Four More To Go

Our first experiences with these four all-new 2013 models bode well for what we can expect in the upcoming months as the auto industry continues its renaissance.

The 17th Annual Urban Wheel Awards

The faithful gathered once again in January, this time to honor the achievements of women in the auto industry. You’ll find them all here, plus reviews of the 2013 Urban Car, Truck and Green Vehicle of The Year.

Back In The Black

The auto industry’s most significant auto show, the Detroit Auto Show, demonstrated clearly that the car industry is getting back on track. And, there’s an all-new Corvette!

Long Term Veloster

With eleven months under its belt, our long term Veloster is still leaving everyone it meets quite smitten. The tech-laden little car’s only problem is…well, go see for yourself.

Index to Advertisers

Cover II: Cadillac – Cadillac.com Page 3: Toyota – Toyota.com Page 5: General Motors – GM.com Page 16: Cadillac – Cadillac.com Page 24: Buick – Buick.com Cover III: Urban Wheel Awards – UrbanWheelAwards.com Cover IV: Decisive Digital – DecisiveMagazine.com

Subscribe to Decisive Digital@ www.decisivemagazine.com

Publisher: Randi Payton Editor-in-Chief: Lyndon Conrad Bell.

Editorial Director: Joyce Gates Art Director: Fran Sherman Editors-at-Large: Mary M. Chapman, Hank Chase, Christopher Jackson, Valerie Menard Senior Editors: Warren Brown, Brian Armstead contributing writers: Sheryll Alexander, Lori Downes, Gayle Fleming, Wendy Ida, Chris Mendoza, Joan Stanford, Joanne Tucker web development: Thuan Ngo decisive Media Headquarters: 8181 Professional Place, Suite 170, Hyattsville, MD 20785 T. 301.850.2858 • F. 301.390.1825 President & CEO: Randi Payton Vice President: Karen Payton Production/Distribution: Joyce Gates Business Manager: Damon Redmond Sales Director: Karen Payton Publisher's assistant: Natalie Dorris DECISIVE MEDIA DETROIT: Leonard Corbin event director: Rosiland Triche public relations: Marjorie Staten DECISIVE magazine © 2013 is published four times annually as a newspaper-delivered publication and digital e-magazine by Decisive Multi-Media, Inc. Your complete resource for research and opinion on consumer products and services.

Visit us at www.DecisiveMagazine.com.

Email us at Comments@DecisiveMagazine.com

For licensing and reprints of Decisive/Decisive Auto content, contact Nick Lademarco at Wright’s Media, Niademarco@wrightsmedia.com, Toll Free 877-652-5295

Membership applied for October 2010

“The way I see it, conformity erodes the soul.”

Raphael Saadiq

Toyota Prius

The estimated 50 MPG Toyota Prius hybrid.

1

Named a Best Overall Value2 of the year for the last 10 years in a row.

And with the available Entune®3 Multimedia System, including apps like Pandora, I can discover bands as opposed to bandwagons.

The Toyota Prius. Those who get it … get it.

Get it for yourself at a dealer near you or visit toyota.com/prius to learn more.

Options shown. 1 2012 EPA estimates 51/city, 48/hwy, 50/comb. Actual mileage will vary. 22012 IntelliChoice, www.IntelliChoice.com 3Always drive safely, obey traffic laws & focus on the road while driving. Apps/services vary by phone/carrier; functionality depends on many factors. Select apps use large amounts of data; you are responsible for charges. Not all apps/services are available initially and subject to change. Apps identified by ™ or ® are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

For enrollment, cost and more details, see Toyota.com/entune®. ©2012 Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

letters from the editor

Urban Wheel Awards

observations

dDECISIVE

Winter Issue

The BesT source for culTural and consumer news

2013 Cadillac ATS Urban Car Of The Year!

®

For the past 17 years, Decisive Media has hosted the Annual Urban Wheel Awards, the of-

ficial multicultural event of the

North American International Auto Show. As part of the event, we’ve always named the Urban Car, Urban Truck, and Urban Green Vehicle of The Year.

Lately, we’ve noticed an interesting occurrence.

Our picks (announced in November) Urban Autos of have, over the last few years, been virtually The Year Reviewed: mirrored by the committee choosing the Also Inside: > 2013 Cadillac ATS > 2013 Ram 1500 North American Car and Truck of The Year > 2013 Tesla Model S — announced the following January.

We Drive: Now, I’m not saying they crib off of us.

High Tech Bedrooms Free IRS Tax Advice Hyatt Carmel Highlands > 2013 Buick Verano > 2013 Jaguar XJ AWD In fact, I’m reasonably certain Urban Wheel Awards Special Issue: > 2013 Toyota Avalon Celebrating Women In The Auto Industry! > 2013 VW Jetta Hybrid they don’t.

Get Your Subscription to Decisive Digital at www.DecisiveMagazine.com But it does say our intrepid band of journalists is remarkably astute when it comes to judging fine automotive talent. After all, the panel choosing the North American Car of The Year routinely seconds our picks. If imitation is indeed the most sincere form of flattery, then we here at Decisive Media are suitably flattered.

Thanks NACOTY panel!

This year’s Urban Wheel Awards also honored the accomplishments of women in the auto industry. Having followed the careers of many of these women individually over the years, it was truly remarkable for me to see them all gathered in one place. It really is evidence of how far the auto industry has advanced, both in the factories and in the executive suites.

I recall hearing stories from the first women who ventured onto the assembly lines in car factories about the insults and indignities they suffered. Being African-American already made you a target of disdain; add being a woman on top of that and suddenly the crass had twice as many insults to hurl. The women who hung in there and did what they had to do awe me. Hopefully, the fact one of the Urban Wheel Awardees this year was plant manager at two automotive assembly facilities simultaneously vindicates those first female auto workers.

And yet, there’s still a long way to go for women in the industry.

Observing the nominations process for the 17th Annual Urban Wheel Awards from a distance, I was quite surprised to see how difficult it was to find women to fill some of the initial categories the UWA organizing committee considered. In fact, some of the categories had to be dropped because to date, there are no women in those professions.

Which is one of the reasons the Urban Wheel Awards continues each year to focus a spotlight on diversity and inclusiveness in the auto industry. And yes, we’ll keep on doing it until the need is no longer there. .Lyndon Conrad Bell Editor-in Chief Decisive Media

4

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

GM takes

5 Urban Wheel Awards Crystal Windham

Alicia Boler-Davis

Vivian Pickard

jenell ross

cadillac ats

The 17th annual Urban Wheel Awards celebration was dedicated to the accomplishments of women in the auto industry. General Motors earned top honors in five award categories at the official multicultural event of the

North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 13, 2013.

The company was recognized for having the best female designer in the industry, along with the best female executive, the most significant pioneering effort, achieving the most progress in community service initiatives for women, and for delivering the Urban Car of The Year.

General Motors’ awardees included: • Designer of the Year – Crystal Windham, director of Design for the Chevrolet Passenger Car and Small Crossover Interior Studio • Executive of the Year – Alicia Boler-Davis, vice president of Global Quality and U.S. Customer Experience special advertising section

• Company of the Year for Progress in Community Service Initiatives to Women – accepted

by Vivian Pickard, president General Motors Foundation and director of Corporate Relations and Ken Barrett, chief diversity officer • Pioneer of the Year – Jenell Ross, president of the Bob Ross Auto Group in Centerville, Ohio representing GM’s Buick and GMC brands • Urban Car of the Year – 2013 Cadillac ATS – accepted by Don Butler, vice president of Marketing, Cadillac. d D

finance

taxesforfree how to do your

Going to college; getting your first job; moving into your own place...

To these rites of passage add one more: doing your own taxes. It’s not as scary as you might think because there’s help available.

It’s called Free File, and it’s offered exclusively from the IRS in partnership with nearly 15 leading tax software companies. About 3 million people use it every year.

Free File lets you choose brand-name software that does the hard work for you — all for free. And, it offers a fast, safe and free option for everyone. Brand-name tax software is available to those who made $57,000 or less in 2012 — which is about 70 percent of us. Earned more? Try Free File’s online fillable forms, the electronic alternative to IRS paper forms.

6

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

Three Simple Steps Step 1: Gather Your Tax Information —Collect your tax information and log on to Free File through the IRS website: www.IRS.gov/freefile.

Step 2: Choose an Option —The “Help Me Choose A Company” option helps you pick the brand-name software that will guide you through the tax process.

—Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic documents, perform basic math calculations and are for people who are comfortable preparing their own paper tax returns.

Step 3: Prepare and e-file Your Return —E-file your return for free. No matter what option you choose, IRS and brand-name software providers use the most current technology to ensure tax information is encrypted, so it’s safe and secure when it’s transmitted.

Free File is also available online 24/7, giving you the freedom to choose when and how you do your taxes.

Materials Checklist Keep this list as a checklist of the items you will need to do your taxes. The IRS recommends keeping all taxrelated documents for three years, in case of an audit. Tracking income-related documents can help you take full advantage of deductions available to you.

—A copy of last year’s tax return —Valid Social Security numbers for yourself, spouse and children —All income statements, i.e. W-2 forms, from all employers —Interest/dividend statements, i.e. 1099 forms —Form 1099-G showing any state refunds —Unemployment compensation amount —Social Security benefits —Expense receipts for deductions —Day care provider’s identifying number Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) No tax benefit offers a greater lifeline to working families than EITC. Yet, one out of every five eligible taxpayers fails to claim it, according to the IRS. Because of the economy, even more people may be eligible if they have had changes in their earned income.

A few things to keep in mind: —The maximum credit for 2012 tax returns is $5,891 for workers with three or more qualifying children.

—Eligibility for the EITC is determined based on a number of factors including earnings, filing status and eligible children.

Workers without qualifying children may be eligible for a smaller credit amount.

To learn more, use the EITC Assistant at www.irs.gov/eitc. If you are eligible for the EITC, you are eligible for free tax help at VITA sites nationwide and to use Free File at www.irs. gov/freefile.

EITC: Eligibility Requirements —You must have earned income.

—Your adjusted gross income cannot be more than the limit.

—Your filing status cannot be “Married f iling separately.”

—You must have a valid Social Security number.

—You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien all year.

—You cannot file Form 2555 or Form 2555-EZ. —Your investment income must be $3,200 or less.

Did you know?

—Most refunds are issued in less than 21 days.

—Combining e-file with direct deposit is still the fastest way to get your refund.

—Use “Where’s My Refund?” to get personalized refund information based on the processing of your tax return.

—You can also use the IRS app, IRS2Go, to check the status of your refund.

—Can’t meet April 15 deadline? Use Free File to get a free exten sion—then use Free File to do your taxes by October 15.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance There are thousands of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites nationwide offering free help to those earning $51,000 or less. To locate the nearest VITA site, search for “VITA” on www.IRS.gov.

Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE), supported by AARP, offers free tax help to people who are aged 60 and older. Locate the nearest AARP Tax-Aide site at AARP.org or call 1-888-2277669. Some VITA/TCE sites even offer Free File.

You can do it yourself on their computers.d D

To view a video about Free File, use a scanner app on your smart phone to read this QR code.

winter | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

7

technology

the

modernmastersuite Adding technology and style to the bedroom

When it comes to adding technology to your home, high tech is becoming an integral part of every living space — including the bedroom.

 8

A survey by the International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA) looked at what designers expect to see in American homes by the year 2020. The report predicts that: —Master bedroom suites will get busier, sharing time as a home office, media center or exercise room.

—97 percent of respondents believe that by 2020 many home furnishings will be activated by means such as voice and sensor. Primary candidates for remote control/motorized operation include lighting, entertainment gear, environmental controls and window treatments.

“High-tech is here to stay,” said Emily Henderson, HGTV “Design Star” winner and designer on “Secrets from a Stylist” on HGTV. “Technology can make your life easier in so many ways. And with so much activity centered in the master suite, it makes sense to add useful tech devices into that living space, too.”

Here are a few of Henderson’s favorite ways to modernize the master bedroom in style: decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

Bed Control “It shouldn’t take a lot of work to get comfortable enough to relax,” said Henderson. “Traditional beds only have one position, and that’s not going to be a good fit for everyone or every activity. That’s why I love Leggett & Platt’s adjustable bed bases. With a wireless remote I can easily change my position to be comfortable no matter what I’m doing.”

Henderson said today’s adjustable base beds are not only more functional than old models, but they’re more attractive, too. “You can find a style to fit your room and a model that offers the level of technology that you’re comfortable with,” she said. “For example, the Leggett & Platt Designer Series has intuitive digital remotes that let you adjust both the head and the foot of your mattress so you can find exactly the right position. They even have a massage feature for a little stylish pampering and a bed skirt option for a more traditional look.” Learn more at www.lpadjustablebeds.com.

Motorized Window Treatment Control “It’s such a luxury to be able to lie in bed and use a remote to open your curtains or shades in the morning,” said Henderson. “I think it officially means you are a grown up, but in a good way.”

Henderson recommends that you get shades or curtains that have blackout lining, and ideally two settings — one for privacy and light control, which would be lighter and thinner, and one with the blackout lining for that perfect dark room that you can sleep in. Blackout curtains also muffle outside noise. “I’m a big fan of The Shade Store motorized window treatments, which are all custom made. They are super high quality so less likely to break down and are still very attractive.”

You can find motorized shades or shutters with a timer, which lets you program them to open and close whenever you like. Some have wall switches, while others have a remote control so you can operate them from anywhere.

Remote Control TV Mount “Wall mounting your TV isn’t anything new, but being able to lie in bed and control the exact placement (right, left, tilt up, tilt down) is a total luxury,” said Henderson. “Many companies are starting to do this so you don’t have to have the TV across from your bed, instead you can put it on a side wall and have the long extendable arm bring the TV to you — by remote.”

Make sure that your wall mount is compatible with your television.

—Check the weight rating on the mounts and brackets to make sure they can support your TV. —Some mounts have different shapes to fit different screen sizes. Check the specification on the packaging to be sure.

Hide ugly cables with a cord concealer. You can find low-profile paintable flat screen cord cover kits at your local home improvement stores. Paint them to match your wall and they’ll blend right in.

Heat Control Sleeping at the right temperature is crucial for a wakeless night’s sleep, but finding an attractive thermostat can be tricky. “There are thermostats which you can control with your iPhone even if you are traveling, so that when you are headed home you can make sure it’s warm enough without wasting a lot of energy,” said Henderson.

These thermostats are intended to save you energy and money by automatically learning your patterns and behavior and adjusting itself accordingly.

You can also create your own personal comfort zone within the bedroom with temperature controlled pillows and blankets. And there’s nothing quite like waking up and putting your feet down on heated flooring.

Music Control You want to listen to music on good quality speakers, but you don’t want a huge speaker in your bedroom; nor do you want to have to get up and turn the stereo off. “Also, I don’t always like the music right next to my ear, on the nightstand,” said Henderson, “so instead I recommend a Bluetooth or wireless speaker that plugs into your wall. You can find speakers that are small and attractive with a great sound and can be controlled by your smartphone next to your bed.”

When choosing a speaker, keep a few things in mind: —Bluetooth reach is limited to about 30 feet. Some speakers use Wi-Fi wireless network technology, which has wider coverage.

—Some models have a dock for smartphones or other devices, as well as additional audio inputs for connecting other devices such as your TV. Make sure the model you choose is compatible with your devices — some only work with iOS or Android systems.

—Some wireless speakers come with remotes or voice recognition controls, but the quality varies. Read user reviews before making your decision.d D

travel

hyatt carmel Highlands

bigsur, carmelhighlands montereypeninsula 2013 Porsche Boxster

and the

written by Lyndon Conrad Bell

On Northern California’s Monterey Peninsula, crisp ocean breezes whisper through sharply drawn cypress trees, framing some of the most exquisite ocean vistas in the world. And, just when you thought the Peninsula’s scenic beauty was the most heavenly sight your eyes have ever been afforded; a short drive just a bit farther south reveals the world-renowned Big Sur coastline.

10

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

Characterized by dramatically soaring mountains emerging directly from the sea, the magnificence of Big Sur has moved many an emotional person to tears. On the other hand, driving enthusiasts reading that sentence, I’m sure have already calculated the equation and made the leap.

Stunning views of the Pacific ocean + mountains emerging directly from the sea = world-class sports car road.

And yes, the math does indeed pencil out.

Highway 1 thru Big Sur is one of the most fantastic drives you’ll ever experience.

To reacquaint ourselves with it, we took the new Porsche Boxster through there recently.

Seemingly designed especially with this road in mind, the Boxster was absolutely in its element.

Racing along the meandering coastal road in the 2013 Porsche Boxster is an experience more Big Sur akin to riding a magic carpet than driving a car. The Boxster seems to glide along in sympathy with the twists and turns of the road. The Porsche is so smooth, you’re almost tempted to get out and look to see if the car really touches the ground.

The 265-horsepower horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine propels the car urgently, while emitting a glorious song evocative of Highlands GuestRoom Porsche’s winning racing heritage. Meanwhile, the Boxster’s freshly renovated interior accommodations make it an even more comfortable place from which to convert time into distance.

Speaking of accommodations, our base of operations was the highly vaunted Hyatt Carmel Highlands Overlooking Big Sur Coast, situated in the town of Carmel Highlands. A storied retreat overlooking absolutely heart Pacific's Edge Restaurant stopping vistas of the Pacific, the Hyatt Carmel Highlands is gracefully draped over 12 acres of a lushly verdant hillside, the foot of which is bathed by the ebbs and flows of the Pacific Ocean.

Perfectly suited to the Carmel area, the Hyatt Highlands is a quintessential blending of rustic charm with contemporary luxury. With a heritage of fine hospitality dating back to 1916, the Highlands’ understated elegance is perfectly Point lobos conducive to relaxation. Its oceanfront setting has hosted luminaries such as Marlon Brando, Julia Child, and Madonna, who honeymooned there with Sean Penn.

The Highlands’ reputation as a gracious romantic getaway is richly deserved.

Its Sunset Lounge woos visitors with handcrafted cocktails and — of course — mesmerizing ocean vistas. The Hyatt Highlands’ carmel Mission.

Point Lobos Pacific’s Edge Restaurant, with its glass walls,

is a fine dining destination for locals and guests alike. Hosting events such as the Artisan Wines of California Winemaker dinners and the Meet The Farmer Lunch series, Pacific’s Edge is justifiably proud of the broad diversity of the local produce, wines and seafood readily accessible to it by dint of its unique location between the sea and the incredibly fertile Salinas Valley.

Just across the way from the Hyatt Carmel Highlands is the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Offering guided walks daily at 10:30a, Point Lobos is within biking distance of the Hyatt, which perhaps not so coincidentally offers bikes to its guests. Once slated for development into 1000 lots, Point Lobos was saved when Alexander Allan bought the land specifically to set it aside and prevent its development.

Today, Point Lobos teems with a rich variety of wildlife and has been called the greatest meeting of land and water on earth. A favorite of landscape artists, Point Lobos will captivate your memories for years after your visit.

Another historically significant place near the Highlands is Mission San Carlos Borroméo del río Carmelo — also known as the Carmel Mission. The church has been there since 1771 and is on the National Register of Historic Places, in addition to being a U.S. National Historic Landmark.

Carmel Mission served as the headquarters of the original upper Las Californias Province missions headed by Father Junípero Serra until his death in 1784.

The original building was destroyed in the mid-19th century, but was restored to its current appearance in 1884. Parishioners still attend Mass there to this day.

Attractions such as these, as well as of course, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Hearst Castle, the 17-Mile Drive, the events surrounding the Pebble Beach Concours d’ Elegance, and the annual AT&T ProAm golf tournament are but a few of the many and varied reasons to visit the Monterey Peninsula and Big Sur any time of the year.

And, if you’re fortunate enough to do it in a Boxster and stay at the Hyatt Carmel

winter | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

11

first looks

first 2013 Buick Verano

written by karen payton

There was a time when Buick, even before Cadillac, was known as the top luxury vehicle of the GM family and the marque was recognized around the world as such. I recently had the pleasure of test-driving one of the newest members of the Buick family, Verano.

Expanding Buick’s footprint into a new category, the 2013 Verano competes in the “compact luxury” segment. It’s a great expression and describes the tidy Buick perfectly.

Three Reasons To Consider The Verano (OK, Three Reasons I Like The Verano) 1. Verano is a luxury sedan with the interior feel, quiet ride, overall look, and styling of larger luxury vehicles but without the price (from $22,585 MSRP).

2. Reasonable fuel costs (Verano is rated at 21-city/32-highway), and easy maneuverability, which is where the “compact” in compact luxury sedan comes in handy.

3. Acoustic engineering specifically for noise isolation, which delivers a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere, while the Verano also provides spirited performance and handling.

There’s Also High Technology For Young’uns • GM’s Intellilink: Seamless Connection Of Smart Phones • Voice Activated Pandora Streaming • Touch Screen Interface • Voice Activated Hands Free Calling • CD, MP3 Player, Aux Audio Input • Front And Rear 12V Power Outlets To Charge Computers, Or Phones • USB Ports • Remote Vehicle Start Heats Verano On Cold Nights/Cools On Hot Days • Iced Blue Ambient Interior Lighting See more at: http://www.decisivemagazine.com/2013-buick-verano

12

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

2013 AWD Jaguar XF & XJ written by Valerie Menard

Adjusting to market demands, Jaguar recently premiered its all-new, all-wheel drive (AWD) technology on the 2013 XJ and XF sedans.

Launched in Montreal, Canada and surrounding areas, the weather included rain and snow flurries, generally a disaster for most car launches but in this case, perfect conditions for this vehicle.

The new AWD system not only remained sure-footed, but it allowed us to drive where no one would dream of taking a luxury sedan, e.g. snow drifts and a circular ice track.

Developed specifically for Jaguar’s new 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine with the eight-speed automatic transmission; the AWD compliments the engine’s high output that delivers smooth safe power and torque delivery. With 340 horsepower and 332 ft.–lbs. of torque, the powertrain delivers drive predominantly to the rear wheels, producing the responsive driving performance expected of a Jaguar in less hazardous conditions.

While the track testing was an impressive demonstration, driving the vehicles on-road offered another advantage—seat time in the most exquisite interiors in their class. Still built in England, the combination of real wood accents and succulent leather seats come as no surprise but at this price point, the features should go beyond that, and they did.

The AWD system adds $3,000 to the price of the XF and $3,500 to the XJ. See more at: http://www.decisivelatino.com/2013-jaguar-xf-and-xj

looks 2013 Toyota Avalon

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid

While some things never change, others do; case in point, the 2013 Toyota Avalon. Once designed specifically to be the “old folk’s” Toyota, the all-new 2013 Avalon has been infused with an athleticism previously considered way too risqué for Toyota’s flagship. Its look is sexy, its equipment is decidedly high-tech, and it goes with vigor previously unknown to sedans wearing its nameplate.

Going down the street, the new Avalon delivers a comfortable, well-damped ride, with good reflexes when changes of direction are requested. Its steering feels direct, acceleration with both engines is good and braking is strong, albeit somewhat devoid of feel in the hybrid version of the car. Handling on twisty roads is actually entertaining, and there’s even an XLE Touring model with 18-inch wheels, paddle shifters, and throttle blips on downshifts. This, most assuredly, is NOT your oldschool Avalon.

We’re talking the top Toyota model here, so you know the Avalon can be had with near-Lexus levels of kit. In fact, the top of the line Avalon Limited flaunts HID headlamps, LED daytime-running lamps, rainsensing windshield wipers, three-zone climate controls, a seven-inch video display, the premium Entune setup, four heated seats, and cooled front seats too.

Avalon starts at $30,990. Avalon Hybrid starts at $35,555.

If you’re a global automobile company aiming to be one of the largest players on the planet, your products have to appeal to as significant an audience as possible. Specifically, your most mainstream product must hold as much appeal as possible for as broad a swath of the market as possible.

Witness the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid.

In typical contemporary VW fashion, the Jetta Hybrid is a well-turned out piece with some remarkable engineering. Its gasoline-fired internal combustion engine is a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline four producing 150 horsepower and 184 ft-lbs of torque. Yes, that is more than 100 horsepower per liter and for such a small powerplant the 1.4 is remarkably robust.

Factor in the output of the 20-kilowatt electric motor and the Jetta Hybrid boasts a total system output of 170 horsepower while delivering a combined fuel economy rating of some 45 miles per gallon. The hybrid Jetta will run up to 44 miles per hour on electric power only and has a range of 1.2 miles on electric power (presumably NOT running at top speed).

Few exterior styling cues announce the “green-ness” of the Jetta Hybrid. A subtle tail spoiler, a blue hue to the badging, and hybrid script in the grille are pretty much all you’ll find. If you can’t wrap your head around a diesel, but you like the feel of a German car and you’re of a mind to be as frugal as possible while enjoying your drives, the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid may well be a strong consideration.

Pricing starts at $24,995.

written by Lyndon Conrad Bell

See more at: http://www.decisivemagazine.com/2013-toyota-avalon

written by Lyndon Conrad Bell

See more at: http://www.decisivemagazine.com/2013-volkswagenjetta-hybrid winter | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

13

CadillacATS

Wins Urban Car of the Year Award

The all-new Cadillac ATS was named Decisive magazine’s 2013 Urban Car of the Year. The award is part of the Urban Wheel Awards held annually each January at the North American International Auto Show.

The ATS was chosen in part for its performance when tested in urban environments for comfort, ease of maneuvering and technical sophistication.

The Urban Wheel Awards judging panel spent several months determining the most stylish, practical and attainable new vehicles for 2013 before settling on the Cadillac.

"The ATS is the latest and most significant step in Cadillac's long-term mission to return to being the standard of the world,” said Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac Marketing. “That makes it especially rewarding to have ATS recognized by experts on the leading edge of cars and culture."

"The renaissance at Cadillac shows no signs of abating,” said Randi

14

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

special advertising section

Payton, founder of the Urban Wheel Awards, now in its 17th year. “With the good-looking and fun-to-drive ATS, Cadillac is wading into one of the most competitive automotive segments in the market with a very strong contender."

A compact sport sedan, smaller than Cadillac’s centerpiece CTS product line, the new ATS is the lightest car in its class with a unique architecture designed for nimble driving performance. The new ATS is offered in rear- and all-wheel drive versions, with a choice of powerful and efficient four and six-cylinder engines.

The all-new 2013 Cadillac ATS compact luxury sports sedan is the brand’s entry into the world’s most significant luxury car segment and is designed to challenge the world’s best premium cars. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive,

in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industryfirst controls and commands for information and media data.

Developed on an all-new, lightweight rear-drive architecture, the ATS reflects a new expression of Cadillac’s Art & Science execution philosophy, centered on a foundation of driving dynamics and mass efficiency. It is the most agile and lightweight Cadillac, with one of the lowest curb weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg). All-wheel drive is available.

Germany ’s famed Nürburgring served as one of the key testing grounds, along with additional roads, race tracks and laboratories around the globe, where ATS engineers balanced performance with Cadillac’s trademark refinement.d

special advertising section

D

winter | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

15

17th Annual Urban Wheel Awards: Honoring Women In The Auto Industry

The 17th Annual Urban Wheel Awards (UWA), the official multicultural event of the North American International Auto Show hosted its annual awards show on Sunday, January 13, 2013 in the Sound Board Theater, at the MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit.

Hosted by by award-winning actors Edward James Olmos and Niecy Nash, the event honored the contributions of women in the automotive industry in management, manufacturing, engineering, design, marketing, human resources, and communications, as well as other segments of the industry.

Companies dedicated to the development and advancement of women in the auto industry were also recognized.

"Our mission is to ensure efforts in all aspects of diversity are honored and rewarded with the Urban Wheel Awards. For seventeen years, this has been the only event held during the

16

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

NAIAS promoting and celebrating diversity and inclusion in the auto industry. We were extremely honored to dedicate this year’s event to women in recognition of their significant accomplishments and successes in the automotive industry.” says Randi Payton, UWA founder.

Proceeds from the UWA support the Emerging Diversity Education Fund to provide scholarships, internships, and mentoring support for ethnic minority college students pursuing careers in communications and the auto industry.

In addition to the women honored, the Cadillac ATS was named Urban Car of The Year, the Ram 1500 was named Urban Truck of The Year, and the Tesla Model S was named Urban Green Vehicle of the Year. You’ll find detailed reviews of each of those vehicles starting on page 18 of this issue.d D

Toyota Motor Sales, Progress in Women’s Dealership Diversity: Alva Mason Manager, Strategic Dealer Representation & Community Relations

Chrysler Group LLC, Progress in Human Resources: Georgette Borrego-Dulworth Director, Talent Acquisition and Global Diversity Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA), Progress in Women’s Supplier Development: Adrienne C. Trimble Project General Manager, Corporate Diversity & Inclusion General Motors, Progress in Community Service Initiatives to Women: Vivian Pickard President, General Motors Foundation & Director, Corporate Relations, General Motors Company

Pioneer of the Year: Jenell R. Ross President, Bob Ross Auto Group —Centerville, Ohio

Designer of the Year: Crystal Windham Director of Design GM North American Passenger Car Interiors

Hispanic Supplier of the Year: Dolores M. Rodriquez President, Whisper Creative Products, Inc.

Native-American Supplier of the Year: Andra Rush President, The Rush Group

African-American Dealer of The Year: Gail Burrus Martin CEO, Martin Management Group

Hispanic Dealer of The Year: Evelyn Chatel Freedom Auto Group Lifetime Achievement Award: Kathy Jackson Legendary Automotive Journalist

Executive of the Year: Alicia Boler-Davis Vice President of Global Quality and U.S. Customer Experience General Motors Company

Asian Dealer of The Year: Lori Lum Toyooka President And General Manager, Lum’s Auto Center

winter | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

17

urban wheel awards

cadillacATS 2013

Urban Car of The Year!

The all-new 2013 Cadillac ATS, the Urban Wheel Awards Car of The Year, is a true compact luxury sedan positioned to do battle with the likes of BMW’s 3-Series, the Lexus IS lineup and the C-Class stable from Mercedes-Benz.

At first glance, the new ATS may appear to be a smaller version of Cadillac’s highly successful CTS. However, the ATS is its own vehicle – and the most significant Cadillac to be launched since the original CTS. The ATS showcases new technologies, along with a quick, nimble and fun to drive high performance driving experience. Nine inches shorter than the CTS sibling and weighing 545 pounds less, the ATS

18

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

rides on a 109.3-inch wheelbase and measures 182.3-inches in overall length.

The 2013 Cadillac ATS offers three engine choices, two transmission choices and is available in a collection of four trim levels: Standard; Luxury; Performance; and Premium. There are other choices to be made, such as rear- or all-wheel drive, and suspension packages like

FE3 sport suspension option.

The ATS displays exceptional 50/50 weight distribution front to rear, delivering balance and stability, both on the road and on the track.

In all frankness, I was not a big fan of the 2.5-liter ATS, as it didn’t seem really Cadillaclike. My on-road choice was the 2.0-liter turbo AWD automatic with tap shift feature. While I enjoyed the 2.0-liter turbo manual RWD ATS powertrain on the track, my pick for the track was without question the 3.6-liter

the FE3 sport suspension option.

Engine choices consist of two new four-cylinders and a V6: the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder delivers 202 horsepower; the optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder cranks out an impressive 272 horses; while the 3.6-liter V6 generates 321 horsepower. All three engines feature direct injection and dual overhead camshafts with continuously variable valve timing. These combine to optimize power and efficiency, along with reducing emissions. Six-speed automatic transmissions are teamed with all three engines; a six-speed manual is available for the turbocharged engine.

Opting for the Sport trim adds front sport seats and magnesium paddle shifters, while the Premium level includes navigation and the

AWD automatic.

The automatic delivered downshift rev matching when braking hard going into curves. The Magnetic Ride Control was phenomenal – ably reading the pavement’s surface and providing instantaneous damping adjustments.

A true sports sedan, The 2013 Cadillac ATS is a car to be enjoyed by enthusiasts. Smoke into a corner too hot and brake to correct, and you’ll likely encounter understeer. Nail the throttle too aggressively on exit and the rear is quite capable of breaking loose. Traits driving enthusiasts covet jealously. It’s all fun stuff in moderation and kept suitably under control.

In the looks department, the ATS is both sleek and sexy with proportions dictated by Cadillac’s “Art and Science” philosophy. In addition to looking good, the extremely slippery design features underbody sheathing to enhance aerodynamics, while the split dual exhaust tips set in the rear diffuser hint at the car’s performance prowess.

Moving to the inside, the interior is inviting, luxurious and comfortable. Cue, (Cadillac’s User Experience) is the focal point of the dash layout with a large screen and intuitive controls. CUE marks the first application of capacitive touch technology to an automobile.

Long story short, the four-passenger, four-door 2013 Cadillac compact luxury sedan is ready to take names and seriously kick some European boo-tay.

The 2013 Cadillac ATS went on sale this past August. The 2.0-liter turbo starts at $33,795, with the 3.6-liter V6 beginning at $42,090. All quoted prices include destination and handling charges.

- See more (including video) at: http://www.decisivemagazine. com/2013-cadillac-ats-reviewd D

winter | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

19

urban wheel awards

ram1500 2 0 13

Urban truck of The Year!

Easily the quietest pickup truck we’ve ever driven, the 2013 Ram 1500, winner of the 2013 Urban Wheel Awards Truck of The Year is a technological tour de force, representing an outstanding achievement in improvement over an already fine product. As you may be aware, the Dodge name has been dropped from Chrysler’s pickups, so now Ram is a standalone brand. And, as the first all-new model to fly the Ram flag, this new 1500 series pickup bodes extremely well for the fledgling enterprise.

20

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

The Ram product team say they were after four key areas of improvement; design, technology, features, and fuel economy. During our day with the new truck, we can certainly confirm they nailed the first three, to quantify the last one; we’ll have to spend a bit more time with the product. But until then, the EPA estimates 17-mpg city/25-mpg highway. Which, for a vehicle the size of this new Ram is quite remarkable. There is also a high fuel efficiency (HFE) version of the truck equipped with a stop-start function, in addition to other fuel saving measures. That version of the Ram 1500 returns 18-mpg city and 25 on the highway.

Two engines are offered; a 305-horsepower, 3.6-liter which generates 269 ft-lbs of torque and will tow 6,500 pounds. A 395-horsepower, 5.7-liter HEMI V8, pumping out 407 ft-lbs of torque is the other offering. Towing capacity with this engine is expected to be in the 9,000-pound range. An eight-speed automatic transmission is paired with both powerplants, which is a first for a Chrysler with a V8.

Controlled by a rotary dial on the dash, rather than a conventional

shift lever on the center console, the transmission is a big part of the fuel economy gains. It also features a thermal management system to get it up to operating temperature more quickly in order to reduce friction, improving its longevity as well as its ability to increase fuel efficiency.

The look of the truck, while more of an evolution than a revolution, does stand out as being “new”. The Ram grille is larger and features a unique treatment for each different version of the venerable pickup. The halogen/LED lighting suite is designed to produce more throw and a broader spread. The taillights incorporate LEDs too. The model designation on the doors has been laid out vertically rather than horizontally to make it easier for contractors and businesses to mount their signs.

The top of the line Laramie model features plush leather and burl walnut unintentionally created by ranchers using trees as fence posts for barbed wire. Eventually, the trees grow over the rusting metal wire, creating a unique swirl coloring pattern and tone.

On the features/technology front, all secondary controls have been grouped by function, making them much easier to locate. While this sounds like such a logical thing, many manufacturers overlook it.

Chrysler’s Uconnect infotainment system has also been applied to the new Ram truck and uses an 8.4-inch touchscreen interface—in addition to the redundant controls, for each incorporated system. Additionally, TFT (thin-film transistor) technology has been incorporated into the instrument cluster—enabling instant reconfigurability of the instrumentation and the information provided—depending upon the operating mode selected.

A new electrical architecture was developed for the Ram to enable the new electronic feature-set. High and low-speed data networks are employed for both comfort and convenience features, as well as to improve the truck’s performance. The Ram is also capable of functioning as a Wi-Fi hot spot. Available Smartphone applications include remote lock and unlocking of the truck. Speaking of locking the truck, the new Ram has a central locking system like that applied to better luxury cars. Locking the Ram’s doors also locks the storage bins in the walls of the pickup box in addition to the fuel-filler and the tailgate.

On the road, the 3.6-liter V6 is so well matched we thought it was the V8, until we were informed otherwise. Then, when we drove the V8, it was like wow! This thing’s got a lot of kick. Additionally, the Ram 1500 has a very smooth ride, thanks to the new air suspension system— which also features a load leveling function. Surprisingly, to be as big as it is, the Ram 1500 really does drive like a car. It is comfortable and smooth, as well as very quiet.

Available in Regular-, Quad- and Crew-cab configurations, with either four-wheel drive, or two-wheel drive, and both long and short truck boxes; 2013 Ram 1500 pricing starts at $23,585 (including destination charge).d D

winter | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

21

urban wheel awards

teslamodelS 2013

Urban green Car of The Year!

Streaking along the ridgeline of the mountaintop in Tesla’s Model S sedan, the silence is almost deafening.

The complete absence of mechanical noise — no intake growl, no exhaust rumble — makes hustling the extremely powerful car along a mountain road a near-surreal experience.

Hampered briefly by a slower-moving vehicle, when a passing lane opens up, we give the Model S full throttle for the first time in order to execute the passing maneuver. A great leaping explosion of forward thrust shoves the 4,770-pound car onward like a fastball from Aroldis Chapman of the Cincinnati Reds. With our crania shoved back against the headrests from the massive force, our mouths hang open, dumbfounded as we are at both the alacrity and relentlessness of the acceleration.

(For you non-baseball fans, Aroldis Chapman holds the record for the fastest pitch ever recorded — a mind-bending 105 miles per hour).

22

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

Here, we should interject the rear mounted 310 kW electric motor in the rear-drive Model S generates 416 horsepower at 5,000 RPM and 443 ft-lbs of torque — the moment you depress the throttle. In other words, the motor’s full torque potential is available the moment you set the Tesla into motion. Nail the throttle, as we did on that mountain road, you’ll get an inkling of what it feels like to be launched in a rocket test sled. The Model S accelerates instantaneously, and just as viciously as any supercar you can name.

Further, when it’s time for the serpentine waltz, the Model S is as graceful as any sports sedan in its class, whether we’re talking Brand A, Brand B, Brand C, Brand M-B, and yes, even Brand P. The steering

is highly responsive and adjustable for effort through three ranges.

The way the sleek sedan feels ratcheted to the road surface inspires tremendous confidence, while the Tesla’s braking ability is fully commensurate with its other performance attributes.

In fact, while we’re on the subject of braking, the Model S is designed to recapture inertial energy through a regenerative braking system just like every other car with an electric motor. However, its engineers aggressively calibrated its regenerative braking system to perform the moment you release the throttle, before you touch the brake pedal.

This makes for an interesting driving technique. Once you get a feel for the way it works, you can go rushing toward a corner and simply lift off of the throttle. In so doing, you’ll get weight transfer to the front wheels to improve turn-in and the car will slow enough for you to feed it into most corners without touching the brake pedal.

In other words, you can rush the Tesla Model S along a moderately winding road using only its throttle to modulate its speed with complete confidence and utter control. Of course, when acute cornering, say something demanding more vigorous braking is required, depressing the “other” pedal hauls the curvaceous sedan down from speed with significant authority. There was a relative lack of braking action right

at the top of the pedal’s travel in our test car, but when you got deep into the binders, the car stopped — really well. And, it did so repeatedly from quite high speeds, with no brake fade evident.

Those expecting the world’s first practical fully electric luxury sedan to be an amalgamation of compromises are going to be happily disappointed. Dynamically, the Model S is a fully-formed well thought out effort. The vast majority of drivers will find it capable of far more performance potential than they will ever have a desire to exploit on the road.

Yeah, it’s that good.

And, while looking around the interior of the Model S reveals it has bit of a ways to go before it challenges Audi for style, fit and finish; when it comes to tech, the Tesla positively shines. The centerpiece of the interior is, quite literally, a 17-inch touchscreen panel within which is contained the interface for all of the Tesla’s comfort and convenience functions. Endlessly entertaining, positively practical, and intelligently intuitive, the flexibility the control panel affords the driver is an utterly redefining experience.

But then so is nearly every other aspect of life with a Tesla Model S and this is telegraphed before you even get inside the car.

With the Tesla’s transmitter fob in your pocket, walking up to the Model S causes it to extend its door handles from their flush resting positions. The car unlocks and awaits your entry. Settling behind the wheel, a tap of the brake pedal awakens the propulsion system and the Model S is ready to take to the road. There are no “keys”, no “switches”. The Tesla assumes if you sat down, touched the pedal, and put it in drive, you’re ready to go. When you arrive at your destination, simply depress the park button, get out and walk away. The car shuts itself down and locks itself as well.

Now, with that said, there are a few state of the art conveniences luxury sedans in the Tesla’s price range offer that have yet to be fitted to the Model S. You’ll do without smart cruise control, blind spot indicators, and lane departure warnings. You’ll also do without a driver adjustable suspension system, self-parking, infinitely adjustable seating, and the prestige factor of a three-pointed star, a golden shield with a prancing stallion, a wreath and crest, a blue and white roundel, or four interlocking rings.

However, you will get a thoroughly enthralling driving experience, a raft of luxurious accommodations, practical and seamless operation, up to 265 miles of range between recharges, and the aforementioned virtually silent operating experience. You will also get absolutely the best electric car offered for mass consumption to date. In short, the Tesla Model S is — undeniably — the real thing.

Pricing starts at $87,400 for the Performance model; base model pricing starts at $52,400.d D

winter | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

23

FEEL LIKE YOU’VE ARRIVED BEFORE YOU EVEN LEAVE. Before you even slide behind the wheel, standard features like the Buick-exclusive QuietTuning technology and IntelliLink* connectivity show that you’ve arrived. Add in the 250-hp ECOTEC 2.0L engine and you’ll see why the 2013 Buick Verano Turbo puts you at the top of the game before you even go in. Discover more at buick.com.

*Full functionality requires compatible Bluetooth ® and smartphone. Some devices require USB connectivity. ©2012 General Motors. All rights reserved. Buick ® Buick emblem® ECOTEC ® IntelliLink ® QuietTuning ® Verano ®

2013 Detroit Auto Show Highlights

Industry’s Back In Black & Back On Track Written by Christopher L. Jackson

After a couple of years of the show's future seeming uncertain, Detroit's gala automotive event seems to be back on track, with a full roster of manufacturers on hand and plenty of glitz. This year's premieres were split about evenly between concept cars and new product, with many 2014 models making early debuts. If the vehicle intros in Detroit are any indicator,

2013 is going to be a year of luxury and horsepower. It'll be efficient power, in many cases, but those acceleration numbers are trending to be just as important. Here are a few of our favorites from the show.



See everything at www.decisivemagazine.com/

2013-north-american-

international-auto-show

26

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

Production Cars: 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray: The latest evolution of the Corvette takes on a classic name to represent the quantum leaps it takes in performance and styling. Ultralightweight construction includes an all-aluminum spaceframe with composite panels and a carbon fiber hood. The new face seems to contain as much Ferrari as it does Corvette, but look closely and you'll see Chevy's signature chrome band across the lower grille opening.

The Corvette Stingray's powered by a new 6.2-liter V8 with direct injection and variable valve timing. Output is up to about 450 horsepower transferred to the rear wheels via a seven-speed manual transmission.

2014 Infiniti Q50: Forget what you thought you knew about Infiniti's alphanumerics, the company recently announced the renaming of all of its cars. Thus, the 2014 Q50 is actually the all-new version of the mid-size sedan formerly known as the G35. A new pinch-sided grille bears an unfortunately close resemblance to that of the equally new Lexus IS, which the Q50 will compete directly against in either 325-horsepower, 3.7L V6 format, or with its new 350-horse hybrid-electric powertrain. Both rear- and all-wheel drive will offered, and the Q50 will feature an adaptive active steering system.

2014 infiniti q50

2014 Lexus IS: The all-new Lexus IS was forced to share the auto show’s premium sport-sedan limelight with the Infiniti Q50. Worse, the two cars share a similar grille treatment. Fortunately, from the A-pillar back, there's no question as to the IS sedan's parentage. It picks up styling cues from the Lexus LF-A supercar. Powered by a choice of 2.5-liter or 3.5-liter engines, Lexus says maximum horsepower will be over 300. And yes, the F Sport range of hop-up parts will still be available.

2014 lexus is

Concept Cars: Acura NSX: The long-anticipated NSX continues to creep toward production. This year's update of the NSX prototype features a finished interior, which Acura says is its vision of an uncluttered, driver-focused cockpit befitting of a supercar. As with the exterior sheet metal, Acura says it's a good representation of what the finished NSX will look like when it goes on sale in the next couple of years.

BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe: BMW's plan to split the 3-Series coupe off from the sedan lineup is revealed as the Concept 4 Series Coupe. In advance of the production version, we've got a fully formed — if lightly disguised — concept version of the car. The Concept 4 Series Coupe has a longer wheelbase and a wider track than the current 3 Series sedan. It also features premium materials within a cabin nicely blending sport and luxury.

Lincoln MKC Concept: Just like Cadillac before it, Lincoln's got a long row to hoe to claw its way back to respectability in the luxury-car market. The MKC Concept suggests the company's got its eyes on the right target. This conceptual luxury crossover features the family's "splitwing" grille and an athletic inspired long-hood, shorttailed silhouette. It's handsome too, with narrow LED headlights accentuating the well-put together design. The MKC Concept’s glass roof adds a hint of elegance. Everything from the color of the interior ambient lighting to the speed at which the pushbutton transmission engages can be tailored to the driver's taste. Perhaps most importantly for product-starved Lincoln, the concept looks productionready enough to hit the streets soon.d D

acura nsx

bmw concept 4 series coupe

lincoln mkc concept

winter | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

27

long term

Hyundai Veloster A Winning Personality & Competence Besides Last year’s Urban Wheel Awards Urban Car of The Year is nearing the end of its time with us. And yet, our 2012 Written by Lyndon Conrad Bell Hyundai Veloster endears itself to us more and more each day. We’ve regaled you over the past eleven months with stories of the impression it leaves with onlookers. To this day, the car still turns heads. Remarkably, even after they find out it’s a Hyundai, they still think the Veloster is amazingly priced for the way it looks. (The 2012 Veloster’s pricing started at $17,300.)

This happens before they even hear about all of the tech features residing within the car. Listing its features like voice activated navigation and telephony, Bluetooth audio streaming and telephony, and the touch screen interface for the telematics features leaves people slack jawed. The seven-inch monitor in the center stack hosts Pandora Internet radio, and Gracenote is there to help manage our music collection. The monitor will also display the output of a video game console — which can be powered by the Veloster’s 115-volt power outlet.

By the way, that Bluetooth we mentioned, as is the voice recognition technology, are standard equipment. Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics system is also standard equipment; providing text messaging, turn-byturn navigation, and point of interest searches — all by voice.

Trained to believe if something sounds this good, it’s probably too good to be true, they immediately ask what’s wrong with the car. While there’s nothing really wrong with it per se, over the months we have observed one or two things Hyundai could address in the next version

28

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

of the car (and in fact one of them has already been addressed).

The first is the general noise level of the car as it rolls down the highway. It’s no secret Hyundai cars are noisier in general than the cars they are typically shopped against. Our Veloster, with its low profile tires and big-ish wheels does admit quite a bit of road noise into the passenger compartment.

The second is the relative lack of oomph from the 138-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Hyundai was smart to pair the engine with a dual-clutch semi-manual transmission. In day to day driving, it’s quite all right. The engine winds freely, though with only 123 ft-lbs of torque on tap, when you turn onto a twisty road, you learn pretty quickly the Hyundai has way more chassis than engine. Of course, the Veloster Turbo solves this problem, so I won’t harp on it.

Like I said, there’s lots to love and only a little to change.

All in all, it’s been a very happy year with our 2012 Hyundai Veloster.d D

thank you urban wheel awards sponsors EXCLUSIVE AFTERGLOW SPONSOR

Titanium sponsor

platinum sponsor

silver sponsors

bronze sponsors

Kia Oval Logo 4/C - Large

Premiere Partner Sponsors

patron sponsors

Official Airline Partner

Official car rental Partner

winter | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

29

DECISIVE Media

The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News DECISIVE Media is a comprehensive multimedia platform, the aim of which is to provide culturally relevant news and information to minority consumers to help them make purchasing decisions on products and services. DECISIVE also helps companies reach this growing market with multiple marketing and public relations tools.

DECISIVE Media incorporates a variety of communication methods: targeted lists, national print, online digital and mobile magazines, e-newsletters, an interactive Website, social media, and video content. Areas of coverage include products and services, autos, travel, business, entertainment, health, green, household, pets, fitness, and food.

The magazines accomplish this with how-to articles, purchasing tips, and product comparisons. Most of the content is generated from independent experts in various fields of endeavor who provide advice, opinions, blogs, interviews, and columns to help consumers make smart decisions. DECISIVE also makes it easier for consumers to shop for vehicles at local dealerships, buy auto parts and accessories, view video content and ads, and connect with experts in the various categories.

DECISIVE Magazines are published quarterly and titles include DECISIVE and DECISIVE Latino.

dDECISIVE dDECISIVE dDECISIVE dDECISIVE Spring 2012

®

Latino

The BesT source for culTural and consumer news

Viper Returns!

Sea Ranch

Also Inside:

Garbanzos Fritos Made Healthy

Hyundai Elantra North American Car Of The Year

2013 Truck Guide

We Drive:

Olvera Street, lOS angeleS

> BMW 328i > Dodge Dart > Fiat Abarth > Hyundai Azera

Hot Swimwear Theater Festival

®

The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News

Spring 2010

¡Buen Viaje!

We pick the top five Latino friendly destinations including Frida Kahlo’s Mexico City.

our experts show you: > A skincare regimen for a healthy glow on the road. (p.3) > How to prepare your finances before you travel. (p.4) > Tips to keep fit while on vacation. (p.5) A Newspaper-Delivered Consumer Publication

Latino

®

The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News Fall 2012

2013 Car Buyer’s Guide The Newest Cars with Latino Appeal

2013 Honda Accord

Also Inside:

> 2013 New Car Buyer's Guide > A MINI Vacation > Tips For Saving On Health Insurance > 17th Annual Urban Wheel Awards Preview

For The Holidays, Our Experts Will Show You How To: > Deal With Uninvited "Guests" > Pack Gifts For Safe Shipping > Craft Distinctive Holiday Desserts > Set A Festive Holiday Table

Next Year’s Newest Trucks and SUVs

We Drive:

> 2013 BMW M5 > 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe > 2013 Lexus LS 460 > 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet

Ram 1500

Get Your Subscription to Decisive Digital at www.decisivelatino.com

dDECISIVE Latino

We Drive:

2013 Cadillac ATS 2013 Lexus ES 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550

Get Your Subscription to Decisive Digital at www.DecisiveMagazine.com

Madea Goes Action Hero In New Detective Movie

Is a Roth IRA Your Retirement Solution?

Special Feature:

> Finance A Family Holiday > Plan Budget Friendly Road Trips > Find Tech Tools For Vacationing

Tyler Perry Gets Cross

Get the 411 on the Latest Cellular Offerings

Experience Hispanic Heritage Month by Exploring Our Past

®

The BesT source for culTural and consumer news

The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News Summer 2012

Top Latino Historical Destinations

Chrysler's Supercar Is Reborn

Our Experts Show You How to:

Fall 2012

®

Get Your Subscription to Decisive Digital at www.DecisiveMagazine.com

Fashion Tips to Jazz Up Classic Business Attire Long-term Review: We Spend Quality Time in a Mazda3

Business Issue How to Find Start-up Capital

We Drive:

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe, 2013 Nissan Sentra, 2013 Buick Verano Turbo and more …

Chef Michelle Bernstein, and others, share tips for launching a business

Get Your Subscription to Decisive Digital at www.decisivelatino.com

DECISIVE’S Website serves as a consumer news hub and provides daily content to major multicultural social networking, news sites and search engines––as well as our network of Web partners and minority newspapers.

DECISIVE Mobile editions are available for current and back issues on iPhone, iPad, WeTab, Android, and other web-based devices.

The ultimate goal of DECISIVE Media is to enable readers to be more “decisive” during these uncertain economic times.

301-850-2858 • www.decisivemagazine.com • www.decisivelatino.com

dDECISIVE m e d i a

The BesT source for culTural and consumer news

®