Press Room

Ford Maverick earns MotorWeek’s 2022 top Drivers’ Choice Award 2.10.2022

For second year, Ford captures “Best of the Year” designation 

TV series' annual Drivers' Choice Award winners announced in digital ceremony

OWINGS MILLS, MD – Purposeful, modern, and durable, the Ford Maverick compact pickup is the “right vehicle, at the right time,” said  MotorWeek Host and Creator John Davis. With its affordability, standard hybrid powertrain, advanced connectivity, and personal use versatility, Ford Maverick is MotorWeek’s 2022 Drivers’ Choice Award winner for “Best of the Year” designation. The announcement was made during a digital ceremony conducted February 10.

The full slate of awards announced by MotorWeek, now in its 41st season as TV’s and digital media’s original automotive magazine series, reflects the enthusiasm Americans continue to have for cars. The Drivers’ Choice Awards digital ceremony can be viewed at MotorWeek.org/about/press_room/.

The 2022 Drivers’ Choice Award winners also are featured on MotorWeek.org and appear on a special episode of MotorWeek (#4123) airing on public television stations beginning February 12. The episode can also be seen on the series’ cable/satellite partner, MAVTV Motorsports Network. 

MotorWeek’s editorial staff evaluated more than 150 cars, trucks, and sports utility vehicles this year.  Drivers’ Choice Award winners in 13 consumer-driven categories were chosen based on driving performance, technology, practicality, fuel efficiency, and value for the dollar. 

The award program added a “Best EV” category this year in recognition of the electrified trend of the automotive industry and increasing consumer interest best plug-in choices. The trio of vehicles selected in this category span a broad range of capabilities and prices to address that interest. 

MotorWeek’s “Best of the Year”

“Ford Maverick is both obtainable and highly efficient and designed from the start to appeal to a large and varied buyer base,” explained Davis. “The first-ever pickup with a standard hybrid powertrain, even in base 2.5-liter front-wheel drive form, the 2022 Maverick can tow up to 2,000 pounds or handle up to 1,500 pounds of cargo. That towing capacity rises to 4,000 pounds with the optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine and all-wheel drive. With its four-door SuperCrew body style, it’s roomy enough for five passengers, while having enough gravitas to handle both weekend home projects and fun runs without compromises. It truly is an urban adventure vehicle.”

The base model is available in front-wheel drive with a starting price of just under $20,000 before delivery charges. That low entry point makes Maverick an attractive choice to first-time buyers, businesses, and those on a tight budget, Davis said. The price includes built-in 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a built-in WiFi hotspot, and wireless smartphone charging.

Despite a short 4.5-foot length, multiple tie-down points and the multi-position tailgate allows Maverick’s “flex-bed” to accommodate up to 18 quarter-inch sheets of plywood. The bed also has two 12-volt power points. Ford offers bike racks for outdoor enthusiasts as well as numerous other factory-designed accessories so owners can customize the Maverick for their own needs. 

Davis also lauds the truck’s off-road handling. “We found that the Maverick handles steep, ruddy hills and high-speed bumpy areas with ease. The compact size of the truck gives owners a range of operating capabilities without the cumbersome aspects of larger trucks,” he said.

With its standard 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain, the Maverick is almost 40 percent more fuel efficient than any other pick-up truck on the market. Davis observed that the Maverick even exceeded Ford’s expectations when it comes to miles per gallon (mpg). The ratings from EPA testing has this compact hybrid truck at 42 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 37 mpg combined.

The 2022 award was Ford’s second in two years.  Ford’s Mustang Mach-E drove home with Best of the Year in 2021.

“Receiving the Drivers' Choice Award for ‘Best of the Year’ reaffirms the overwhelming response we’ve had from Maverick customers and means so much to our team, considering the attention they put into making Maverick affordable, flexible and fuel-efficient. We’re honored to earn this recognition for the second year in a row after winning with Mach-E last year,” said Samir Raval, Maverick chief engineer.

Chicago Auto Show   

While the Drivers’ Choice Awards are announced annually with great fanfare at the Chicago Auto Show, the largest consumer-driven auto show in North America, MotorWeek will take another pause due to the pandemic.  “We at MotorWeek salute our colleagues at the Chicago Auto Show, and we look forward to returning next year to announce the 2023 Drivers’ Choice Award winners,” Davis said.

MotorWeek and the 2022 Drivers’ Choice Awards are nationally sponsored by Lucas Oil, TireRack.com, and RockAuto.com.

2022 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award Winners

Best Family Sedan                          Honda Civic

Best Luxury Sedan                          Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Best Sport Sedan                             Cadillac V-Series Blackwing

Best Sport Coupe                             Subaru BRZ / Toyota GR 86

Best Performance Car                    Porsche 718*

Best Small Utility                            Volkswagen Taos

Best Midsize Utility                         Nissan Pathfinder

Best Large Utility                             Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Best Luxury Utility                          Genesis GV80

Best Compact Truck                        Ford Maverick

Best Midsize Truck                          Nissan Frontier

Best Fullsize Truck                          Ford F-Series* 

Best EV                                               Lucid Air, Rivian R1T, Volkswagen ID4

 

* Denotes repeat winner from 2021   

About MotorWeek

MotorWeek is television’s longest-running and most-respected automotive series. Debuting in 1981, MotorWeek launched a new television genre by becoming the first weekly series to offer consumer-oriented car and truck reviews, do-it-yourself car care tips, and the latest auto industry news. 

Produced by Maryland Public Television (MPT), the award-winning series is now in its 41st season. The winner of numerous automotive journalism awards, MotorWeek is a reliable and trusted source of automotive news on television and on the web.

Distributed nationwide and overseas by MPT, MotorWeek airs on 92 percent of PBS stations and can also be seen on cable/satellite on MAVTV.  MotorWeek programs are accessible via the PBS Living channel on Prime video, part of Amazon’s streaming subscription service. Program excerpts are available to viewers on the program’s website MotorWeek.org and on its YouTube Channel, youtube.com/MotorWeek.  Fans can like MotorWeek on Facebook and also follow the series on Instagram and Twitter.

For commercial licensing opportunities regarding the 2022 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Awards including use of the logo, contact Sean Rokisky at PARS International Corp. (212) 221-9595 x163 or sean.rokisky@parsintl.com.

 

40th anniversary of landmark automotive TV series MotorWeek being celebrated with special retrospect 5.11.2021

OWINGS MILLS, MD – MotorWeek, TV’s original and longest-running automotive magazine series, marks its milestone 40th season with a special episode premiering Saturday, May 15 on public television stations across the country.

Maryland Public Television (MPT) will air the MotorWeek 40th anniversary special on MPT-HD on May 15 at 5 p.m. and Wednesday, May 19 at 7:30 p.m. The episode will also be shown on MPT2/Create® on Sunday, May 16 at 7:30 p.m.

Fans of the show should buckle up as longtime host and series creator John Davis and the MotorWeek crew take viewers on a 30-minute high-speed run through the vast archives of the show’s four decades on the air. John Davis, MotorWeek host and series creator “It’s been a wonderful ride,” says Davis. “When we started, I thought it would be a fun project for a few years. Who knew that it would last four decades and still be going strong? But the real credit for that goes to the viewers and their insatiable love of the automobile and, of course, to the cars themselves that from day one are the stars of MotorWeek.”

Special episode features include a look back at MotorWeek’s earliest days and how the series got started; a visit with some of the people and places seen during the show’s 40 years on the road; and conversations with feature reporters, past and present, as they reminisce about their most memorable stories.

MotorWeek fans also will enjoy a countdown of the series’ top 10 most popular Retro Reviews; a segment with Master Technician Pat Goss showing that the more things change, the more they stay the same; and no episode of MotorWeek is complete without a look John Davis (center) and the MotorWeek crew, circa 1982 ahead at the future of driving.

During this 40th anniversary season, MotorWeek is continuing its quest, to test, evaluate, and understand the insatiable American appetite for personal transportation, despite major shifts in culture and the global Covid-19 pandemic.

Davis and team bring the 2021 model year into focus, and while the automotive industry is still ripe with near-term prospects of cleaner electric and self-driving autonomous vehicles, the landscape is cloudier than ever due to ever-changing car company priorities, and the impact of the pandemic on sales.

“MotorWeek remains committed to reporting the facts that most affect consumers in their wallets,” notes Davis. “As always, our reporters navigate the marketplace and identify genuine trends and best values for drivers and their passengers.”

MotorWeek is produced and distributed by Maryland Public Television. The series airs on 90 percent of PBS stations nationwide. Viewers can find out which station near them airs MotorWeek by going to the station listings page on motorweek.org/about/station_listings.

The winner of dozens of prestigious automotive journalism awards, MotorWeek is also seen on Discovery’s MotorTrend cable channel, and on the V-me Spanish-language network.

MotorWeek is available for every type of video screen and mobile device with up-to-the-minute automotive news, instantaneous driving impressions, and exclusive videos at motorweek.org. More than 500 of the latest MotorWeek road tests are available through series partner cars.com.

Program excerpts are available at pbs.org/motorweek, and MotorWeek’s YouTube Channel, youtube.com/motorweek, with two million views per month. Viewers can also follow MotorWeek on Facebook, Twitter as well as download complete episodes on iTunes.

MotorWeek is nationally sponsored by RockAuto.com and TireRack.com.

# # #

About Maryland Public Television Maryland Public Television (MPT) is a statewide, public-supported TV network and Public Broadcasting Service member offering entertaining, educational, and inspiring content delivered by traditional broadcasting and streaming on TVs, computers, and mobile devices. A state agency, it operates under the auspices of the Maryland Public Broadcasting Commission. MPT creates local, regional, and national content and is a frequent winner of regional Emmy® awards. MPT’s commitment to educators, parents, caregivers, and learners of all ages is delivered through instructional events and Thinkport.org. MPT’s year-round community engagement activities connect viewers with resources on a wide range of topics. For more information visit mpt.org.

Ford Mustang Mach-E Takes MotorWeek’s 2021 “Best of the Year” 2.10.2021

Ford Mustang Mach-E Takes MotorWeek’s 2021 “Best of the Year”

TV series' annual Drivers' Choice Award winners announced in digital ceremony

OWINGS MILLS, MD – With mass market appeal, heavy doses of style, performance, and heritage, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, has taken the electric vehicle herd by storm and is MotorWeek’s 2021 Drivers’ Choice Award winner for “Best of the Year.”

“By invoking the vaunted “Mustang” and “Mach” names, Ford has given electric vehicles mass market cache – and did it first,” said MotorWeek Host and Creator, John Davis. “Mustang is one of the world’s most widely known nameplates. Ford took an electric vehicle to the next level by giving it that Mustang DNA with elements of style and performance that echo the classic appeal of the Mustang coupe.”

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is the “best total package of an electric vehicle that anyone has designed to date,” said Davis. “Its overall tech, comfort, interior styling, ergonomic appeal, and drivability all got it to the No. 1 “Best of the Year” spot in MotorWeek’s 2021 Drivers’ Choice Awards.”

The large center screen, Davis notes, while not the first of its kind, is one an average person can use without being confused or overwhelmed. The interior is modern luxury from start to finish, with the creature comforts, ergonomics, and technology that the majority of car buyers seek, plus a 300-mile range, collectively adds to Mach-E’s mass market appeal. 

The 2021 Drivers’ Choice Award winners are featured on Motorweek.org, and will appear on a special episode of MotorWeek (#4023) airing on public television stations beginning February 13 and on cable’s MotorTrend Network beginning February 23.

The MotorWeek editorial staff evaluates more than 150 cars, trucks, and sports utility vehicles every year. Winners are chosen based on driving performance, technology, practicality, fuel efficiency, and value for the dollar.

The full slate of awards announced by MotorWeek, now in its 40^th season as TV’s and digital media’s original automotive magazine series, reflects the enthusiasm Americans continue to have for cars, even throughout a pandemic. While COVID-19 changed the way consumers shop in general, the car industry rose the occasion – and so did consumers.

In early 2020, at the start of the pandemic, auto sales dropped off by almost 80 percent with dire warnings of what was to come. Isolations and quarantines at various times nationwide meant families spent more time together, including in the car, if just to take a drive and get out of the house. But the market proved far more resistant than experts predicted, as SUVs and trucks continued their growing appeal, and by the end of the year sales were down by only 14 percent.

Consumers embraced alternative ownership options in car buying as the industry’s comeback reflected entrepreneurial approaches, all while protecting workers. Dealers reached out online to make the process as hands-free as possible – including appointments for test drives and expanded home delivery. Prior to the pandemic, the smallest SUVs and trucks were the on-trend, but as the pandemic lingered the trend shifted to midsize and larger SUVs – indicating the need to fit a full family for those much-needed excursions.

While the Drivers’ Choice Awards are annually announced with great fanfare at the Chicago Auto Show, the largest consumer-driven auto show in North America, this year, like many other major events, the one million square feet of McCormick Place convention space is on pause until later this year. MotorWeek salute its colleagues at the Chicago Auto Show and looks forward to returning next year to announce the 2022 Drivers’ Choice Award winners.

MotorWeek and the 2021 Drivers’ Choice Awards are nationally sponsored by RockAuto.

2021 Drivers’ Choice Award Winners:

Best Small Car                                    Mazda3*

Best Family Sedan                             Kia K5

Best Luxury Sedan                             Acura TLX

Best Sport Sedan                               Mercedes-AMG CLA35

Best Sport Coupe                               Toyota GR Supra*

Best Performance Car                       Porsche 718

Best Small Utility                               Ford Bronco Sport

Best Midsize Utility                         Land Rover Defender

Best Large Utility                               Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban

Best Luxury Utility                             Mercedes-Benz GLE*

Best Midsize Truck                            Honda Ridgeline

Best Fullsize Truck                             Ford F-150

Best Eco-Friendly                               Ford Mustang Mach-E

Best Dream Machine                        Bentley Flying Spur

                   Aston Martin DBX

                                                           Porsche 911 Turbo

* Denotes Repeat Winner from 2020   

MotorWeek is television’s longest-running and most-respected automotive series. Debuting in 1981, MotorWeek launched a new television genre by becoming the first weekly series to offer consumer-oriented car and truck reviews, do-it-yourself car care tips, and the latest auto industry news. Produced by Maryland Public Television, the award-winning series is now in its 40th season. The winner of numerous automotive journalism awards, MotorWeek is a reliable and trusted source of automotive news on television and on the web.

Distributed nationwide and overseas by Maryland Public Television, MotorWeek airs on 92 percent of PBS broadcast stations and can also be seen on cable’s MotorTrend Network. MotorWeek programs are accessible via the PBS Living channel on Prime video, part of Amazon’s streaming subscription service. Program excerpts are available to viewers on the program’s website motorweek.org, and on its YouTube Channel, youtube.com/Motorweek.  Fans can like MotorWeek on Facebook and also follow the series on Instagram and Twitter.

MotorWeek: 40 Years of Steering You in the Right Direction 8.26.2020

MotorWeek celebrates four decades of extraordinary automotive television by taking a look back while delivering advice viewers depend on today

 OWINGS MILLS, MD – MotorWeek, television’s original and longest-running automotive magazine series, marks its milestone 40^th season starting in September. During the upcoming season, the series will glance in the rearview mirror to take a look at the cars and the people that have made the show such as success while still keeping a focused eye on the road ahead. Every episode of the 40^th anniversary season will be punctuated with archival automotive highlights, some funny and some ironic, but all entertaining and informative. 

MotorWeek’s 40^th season premieres on public television stations across the country beginning Saturday, September 12 (check local PBS listings).  Every week, series host and creator John Davis and the MotorWeek team continue their relentless quest to test, evaluate, and understand the insatiable but evolving American appetite for personal transportation, despite major shifts in culture and the global COVID-19 pandemic. 

The new season brings the 2021 model year into focus for viewers. While the automotive industry is still ripe with near-term prospects of cleaner electric and self-driving autonomous vehicles, things are cloudier than ever due to ever-changing car company priorities and by the fact that sales having been negatively impacted by the pandemic. 

“Despite these grey clouds, Americans continue to purchase pickup trucks and SUVs in near-record numbers, even as traditional sedan sales decline,” explains John Davis. “While consumers are interested in learning more about electric vehicles -- and there’s no question that a lot of electrification will be used in all future cars -- buyers are still concerned about their high price, range limitations, and the slow growth in the number of charging stations even along frequently traveled routes. These concerns will continue to make EVs niche vehicles at least for the next few years.”

Complete with updated anniversary open animation and music, the MotorWeek 40^th season feature lineup continues with its roster of popular segments including Goss’ Garage, in which Master Technician Pat Goss offers up do-it-yourself car care advice; Lauren Morrison keeps viewers in the know with consumer news and trends in Motor News; daring Over the Edge reporter Greg Carloss turns up the fun with his unique look at the auto world in overdrive; lifestyle reporter Stephanie Hart delivers insights on driving and automotive safety, money-saving advice, and the latest in automotive technology in FYI; Brian Robinson brings his years of motorcycling experience to the Two Wheelin’ segment, reviewing the latest motorcycles on the road; and AutoWorld explores the advancing influence of alternative fuels, electrification, and autonomous driving safety. 

“MotorWeek continues to report the facts that most affect consumers in their wallets,” says Davis. “As always, our reporters help navigate the marketplace and identify genuine trends and best values for drivers and their passengers.”

Through it all, the American car consumer remains in the driver’s seat, armed with MotorWeek’s unbiased evaluations. Season 40 of the series will cover all the new vehicles on any car buyer’s wish list, showcasing the latest technology while measuring each car’s real-world performance, practicality, efficiency, and safety.  From hatchbacks to sport-utility vehicles, exotic performance machines to pickup trucks, MotorWeek’s team of experts buckle into more than 150 vehicles each season. 

Davis says that amid the myriad of highly-anticipated EVs soon to hit our streets, like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Tesla Cybertruck, and Nissan Ariya, the real standout in 2021 is the return of an old school gasoline-powered off-roader, the reborn Ford Bronco.  Now, a brand within a brand, the new Bronco returns with a three-model lineup aimed squarely at competing with the Jeep brand. 

Safety, Davis notes, continues to be a high priority for both carmakers and consumers.  “With younger buyers putting a higher value on advanced safety systems for their new cars, semi-autonomous driving systems like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring are even more in play. Carmakers that make these systems easily affordable stand to increase market share at the expense of those who don’t.”

With some 17 million new vehicles purchased last year, car buying clearly remains a priority with consumers. MotorWeek continues to offer viewers a vicarious experience from behind the driver’s seat as well as from behind the wheel. At the start of its 40^th season, MotorWeek will hit the ignition on a broad variety of all-new models including the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Porsche 911 Turbo S, Lexus LC 500 Convertible, Lincoln Navigator, Volkswagen Passat, Ford F-150, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Kia K5, plus a bevy of high-performance cars. Despite soft demand, more and more plug-in electric vehicles are also launching, including the MINI Cooper SE and Mercedes EQC.

MotorWeek is produced and distributed by Maryland Public Television and airs on 90 percent of PBS stations nationwide. With the recent addition of St. Louis, the series can now be seen on public TV stations in all of the nation’s top 25 markets. Viewers can find out which stations air MotorWeek by going to the station listings page on motorweek.org.

Winner of dozens of prestigious automotive journalism awards, MotorWeek is also seen on Discovery’s MotorTrend cable channel, and on the V-me Spanish-language network.

MotorWeek is available for every type of video screen and mobile device with up-to-the-minute automotive news, instantaneous driving impressions, and exclusive videos online at motorweek.org.

Full episodes are available at pbs.org/motorweek, and can be streamed through PBS Living on Amazon Prime. Individual roadtests and feature segments are posted daily on MotorWeek’s YouTube Channel, youtube.com/motorweek, now with more than two million views per month. Viewers can also follow MotorWeek on Facebook and Twitter as well as download complete shows on iTunes.

MotorWeek is nationally sponsored by RockAuto.com. 

MotorWeek Names Corvette Stingray 2020 Drivers’ Choice “Best of the Year” 2.06.2020

MotorWeek’s 2020 “Best of the Year”: Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

TV series' annual Drivers' Choice Award winners announced at Chicago Auto Show  

 

CHICAGO – The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, the newest generation of an American icon, is MotorWeek’s 2020 Drivers’ Choice Award winner for “Best of the Year.” The full slate of awards was announced today on the floor of the Chicago Auto Show, the nation’s largest consumer automotive showcase. MotorWeek, TV’s original automotive magazine, has evaluated thousands of impressive cars in nearly four decades – and this year’s top winner deserves all the accolades it will surely receive.

MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Awards evaluators expressed that this iteration of Stingray, 66 years in the making, has been well worth the wait. Described as precise, confident, and incredibly responsive, with driver-centric cockpit and ergonomics, they said the Corvette Stingray breaks all the rules by its predecessors. This eight generation design is the first production Corvette with the engine mounted behind the driver, while producing an amazingly quiet cabin environment.

MotorWeek Creator and Host John Davis said, “Chevrolet has managed to engineer a vehicle that delivers on performance, comfort, technology, and aesthetics, the likes of which will give its global rivals more than a little heart burn, and they’ve done it all for a base price of just under $60,000.”

 “I love the fact that the new Stingray still centers on a naturally aspirated small block V-8. The new LT2 engine is a delight, and fits seamlessly with the super-fast shifting dual-clutch automatic,” said Davis. “The whole Stingray package is impressively well thought out and executed.”

“We’re honored to have the Corvette chosen as MotorWeek’s Best of the Year winner,” said Steve Majoros, director of Chevrolet passenger car and crossover marketing. “The first mid-engine Corvette represents a huge milestone for Chevrolet and we’re eager for customers to get behind the wheel.”

Th 2020 Drivers’ Choice Award winners are featured on Motorweek.org, and will appear on a special episode of MotorWeek (#3923) airing on public television stations beginning February 8, and on cable’s MotorTrend Network beginning February 18. 

MotorWeek and the 2020 Drivers’ Choice Awards are nationally sponsored by The Tire Rack® and RockAuto. 

One of the auto industry’s most coveted honors, MotorWeek’s Drivers’ Choice Awards were announced at the largest consumer-driven auto show in North America, the 2020 Chicago Auto Show.

In selecting the annual Drivers’ Choice Awards the MotorWeek editorial staff evaluates more than 150 cars, trucks, and sports utility vehicles every year. Winners are chosen based on driving performance, technology, practicality, fuel efficiency, and value for the dollar.

2020 Drivers’ Choice Award Winners:

Best Small Car                                    Mazda3

Best Family Sedan                             Hyundai Sonata

Best Convertible                                BMW Z4

Best Luxury Sedan                             Audi A6

Best Sport Sedan                               BMW 3 Series

Best Sport Coupe                               Toyota GR Supra

Best Performance Car                       Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

Best Small Utility                               Toyota RAV4*

Best Midsize Utility                         Honda Passport

Best Large Utility                               Hyundai Palisade                                                                                                                   

    Kia Telluride

Best Luxury Utility                             Mercedes-Benz GLE

Best Pickup Truck                              Ram Pickup Trucks*

Best Eco-Friendly                               Kia Niro

Best Dream Machine                        Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

                                                           Mercedes-AMG GT R

                                                           Porsche Taycan Turbo S

MotorWeek is television’s longest-running and most-respected automotive series. Debuting in 1981, MotorWeek launched a new television genre by becoming the first weekly series to offer consumer-oriented car and truck reviews, do-it-yourself car care tips, and the latest auto industry news. Produced by Maryland Public Television, the award-winning series is now in its 39th season. The winner of numerous automotive journalism awards, MotorWeek is a reliable source of automotive news on television and on the web.

Distributed nationwide and overseas by Maryland Public Television, MotorWeek airs on 92 percent of PBS broadcast stations and can also be seen on cable’s MotorTrend Network. Beginning February 7, MotorWeek programs will be accessible via the PBS Living channel on Prime video, part of Amazon’s streaming subscription service. Program excerpts are available to viewers on the program’s website motorweek.org, and on its YouTube Channel, youtube.com/Motorweek.  Fans can like MotorWeek on Facebook and also follow the series on Instagram and Twitter.

* Denotes Repeat Winner from 2019     

 

MotorWeek Season 39 Helps Consumers Navigate Uncertain Automotive Terrain 8.20.2019

 

OWINGS MILLS, MD – MotorWeek, television’s original and longest-running automotive magazine series, cruises into an unprecedented 39th season with an eye on global and domestic manufacturing shifts and their potential effect on consumer new vehicle choices. Host John Davis and the MotorWeek team invite viewers along for a ride that brings the 2020 model year into focus where, even with major shifts in culture and lifestyle, the American car consumer remains in the driver’s seat. MotorWeek premieres on public television stations across the country beginning Saturday, September 7 (check local PBS listings).

While government mandates, especially in Europe and China, are dictating manufacturing trends in the EV (electric vehicle) sector, so far consumer vehicle demand does not match manufacturer investment or enthusiasm. With a mere 2.1 percent worldwide sales for EVs and all plug-in vehicles, and an even smaller 1 percent demand here in the U.S., it could be decades before sales, and thus profits, begin to pay off the enormous investment battery powered vehicles require. Add in the fact that global vehicle demand is slowing due to deteriorating economic conditions, it presents a difficult and uncertain future for automobiles general.

“Still, despite these dark clouds, Americans continue to purchase pick-up trucks and SUV’s in near record numbers, even as traditional sedan sales decline,” says host John Davis. “While consumers are interested in learning more about electric vehicles - and there’s no question that a lot of electrification will be used in all future cars - buyers are still concerned about their high price, range limitations, and the slow growth in the number of charging stations even along frequently traveled routes. These concerns will continue to make EVs niche vehicles at least for the next few years.”

“In this confusing market terrain, which often includes murky claims about autonomous driving capabilities, MotorWeek will continue to report the facts that most effect consumers in their wallets.” says Davis. “As always, our reporters will help navigate the marketplace and identify genuine trends and best values for drivers and their passengers.”

Davis says that amid all the posturing and promises of EVs, the real standout in 2020 is a game-changer in the gasoline-powered performance car category – the all-new, 8th generation, Chevrolet Corvette. Often referred to as the ‘C8’, it is the first Corvette with the engine behind the driver. Up until now, all previous versions of America’s favorite sports car had the engine in the front. The new powertrain arrangement allows for improved handling that matches or exceeds some of the world’s most expensive cars, and all for a base price of under $60,000.”

“On another note, individual car ownership isn’t going away,” says Davis, “But the paradigm for ‘why’ people are buying personal cars is shifting. Millennials, especially, are responsible for the rise in car sharing services like Uber and Lyft, yet, they remain the fastest growing segment among vehicle buyers. They will likely represent about 40 percent of the U.S. new-vehicle market by 2020*, are buying at a higher rate than baby boomers and investing more in their vehicle purchase.”

“With younger buyers putting a higher value on advanced safety systems for their new cars, semi-autonomous driving systems like automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring, are even more in play. Carmakers that make these systems easily affordable stand to increase market share at the expense of those who don’t,” says Davis. 

With some 17 million new cars purchased last year, car buying clearly remains a priority with consumers. MotorWeek’s reviews and road tests more than 150 new cars, trucks and sport utilities each season, offering viewers a vicarious experience from behind the driver’s seat as well as from behind the wheel. At the start of season 39 MotorWeek will hit the ignition on a broad variety of all-new models including the new Subaru Outback, Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, Toyota Highlander, Volkswagen Arteon, Cadillac XT6, Hyundai Sonata, Lincoln Corsair, plus a bevy of new heavy duty pickup trucks. Despite soft demand, more and more plug-in electric vehicles are also launching including the Audi eTron and Mercedes EQC.

MotorWeek’s feature line-up includes the return of popular segments such as Goss’ Garage, with master technician Pat Goss, offering know-it-yourself car care advice. “FYI” reporter Stephanie Hart brings consumer-focused updates on driving style and automotive safety; Lauren Morrision keeps viewers in the know with consumer news and trends on “Motor News" and veteran Roger Mecca and “Tire Tracks” continues to fill our bucket list with reviews of the most desirable ultra-high performance cars of the past.

In addition, MotorWeek’s Brian Robinson takes a very hands-on approach for his “Two Wheelin’” reports with reviews of the newest motorcycles and “Over the Edge” reporter Zach Maskell turns up the fun with a look at the auto world in overdrive.

MotorWeek airs on 90 percent of PBS stations nationwide. Viewers can find out which public television stations air MotorWeek by going to the station listings page on motorweek.org.

 Winner of dozens of prestigious automotive journalism awards, MotorWeek is also seen on Discovery’s MotorTrend cable channel, and on the V-me Spanish-language network.

MotorWeek is available for every type of video screen and mobile device with up-to-the-minute automotive news, instantaneous driving impressions, and exclusive videos online at motorweek.org. More than 500 of the latest MotorWeek roadtests are available through series partner cars.com. 

Program excerpts are available at pbs.org/motorweek, and MotorWeek’s YouTube Channel, youtube.com/motorweek, with two million views per month. Viewers can also follow MotorWeek on Facebook, Twitter as well as download complete shows on iTunes.

MotorWeek is nationally sponsored by TireRack.com, RockAuto.com and State Farm. MotorWeek is produced and distributed by Maryland Public Television.

 

*Root & Associates

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MotorWeek Names Jaguar I-PACE Drivers’ Choice “Best of the Year” 2.07.2019

MotorWeek’s 2019 “Best of the Year” Unveiled: Jaguar I-PACE

TV series' annual Drivers' Choice Award winners announced at Chicago Auto Show

 

CHICAGO – Jaguar’s first all-electric vehicle, the I-PACE, is MotorWeek’s 2019 Drivers’ Choice Award winner for “Best of the Year,” announced today at the Chicago Auto Show, the nation’s largest consumer automotive showcase. Over an unprecedented 38 years of bringing weekly automotive news to consumers, MotorWeek has evaluated thousands of distinctive cars, but only a handful deserving of their “best of” moniker. This year’s winner brings every bit of nuanced luxury into the future all while making it the car for right now.

The Jaguar I-PACE luxury utility keeps the family-resemblance and driving character strong in this eco-friendly iteration of its brand. With all-wheel drive, a familiar Jaguar grille, and an open interior that luxuriously manages both occupants and their gear, along with a generous 234 mile plug-in range, the I-PACE is the new benchmark for five-passenger utilities.

“Jaguar has managed to engineer an electric vehicle (EV) whose creature comfort quotient is high but with all the advantages and technology we’ve come to expect from the new age of electrified models,” says MotorWeek creator and host John Davis. “The I-PACE totally delivers as an EV, besting our expectations with outstanding style, range, roominess, as well as performance handling, acceleration, and braking. As a total package, the I-PACE not only is a standout luxury utility, it is a clear winner among all new passenger vehicles.”

“We are honored to have the Jaguar I-PACE named 2019 Drivers’ Choice Award for ‘Best of the Year’ by MotorWeek,” said Joe Eberhardt, President and CEO, Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC. “The Jaguar I-PACE has been a game changer for the brand. Being recognized as the ‘Best Luxury Utility’ vehicle and win ‘Best of the Year’ is a testament to the pioneering spirit and dedication of the design and engineering teams at Jaguar.”

 

Luxury buyers who sample the I-PACE will be impressed, while driver and passengers will bask in the shelter of serenity that electric vehicles provide. With an absence of engine noise, there is still an exciting element of surprise with so much effortless power and road prowess on tap.  MotorWeek testing proved that point with a 0 to 60 mile per hour sprint of just over 4.2 seconds. With ‘oomph’ married to great balance and maneuverability, drivers know they are in the cabin of a Jaguar.

Jaguar has inaugurated its latest dual-screen infotainment system in the I-PACE that features a pair of instrument panel touchscreens called InControl Touch Pro Duo. While the I-PACE doesn’t ‘scream’ new technology from its ultra-plush interior, the Jaguar’s ergonomic control center is intuitive and easily within reach.

“These are only some of the reasons the I-PACE won our staff’s vote in the ‘Best Luxury Utility,’ category,” says Davis, “which then put it in the running for our ‘Best of the Year’ honor.

Watch MotorWeek’s Jaguar I-PACE roadtest (Episode #3810)

All Drivers’ Choice Award winners are featured on Motorweek.org, and will appear on a special episode of MotorWeek (#3823) airing on public television stations beginning February 9, and on cable’s MotorTrend Network beginning February 19.  MotorWeek and the 2019 Drivers’ Choice Awards are nationally sponsored by The Tire Rack®, WeatherTech, RockAuto, and State Farm.  Additional support for the 2019 Drivers' Choice Awards has been provided by Rain-X.

One of the auto industry’s most coveted honors, MotorWeek’s Drivers’ Choice Awards were announced at the largest consumer-driven auto show in North America, the 2019 Chicago Auto Show. In selecting the annual Drivers’ Choice Awards, the MotorWeek’s editorial staff evaluates more than 150 cars, trucks, and sports utility vehicles every year. Winners are chosen based on driving performance, technology, practicality, fuel efficiency, and value for the dollar.

2019 Drivers’ Choice Award Winners:

Best Small Car                                   Kia Forte

Best Family Sedan                            Nissan Altima

Best Convertible                                Mazda MX-5 Miata*

Best Luxury Sedan                            Genesis G70

Best Sport Sedan                              Volvo S60

Best Sport Coupe                              Hyundai Veloster N

Best Performance Car                       Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye

Best Small Utility                               Toyota RAV4

Best Midsize Utility                            Ford Edge

Best Large Utility                               Volkswagen Atlas*

Best Luxury Utility                             Jaguar I-PACE

Best Pickup Truck                             Ram 1500

Best Eco-Friendly                              Honda Clarity

Best Dream Machine                         Bentley Continental GT

                                                           Ferrari 812 Superfast

                                                           Porsche Panamera

MotorWeek is television’s longest-running and most-respected automotive series. Debuting in 1981, MotorWeek launched a new television genre by becoming the first weekly series to offer consumer-oriented car and truck reviews, do-it-yourself car care tips, and the latest auto industry news. Produced by Maryland Public Television, the award-winning series is now in its 38th season. The winner of numerous automotive journalism awards, MotorWeek is a reliable source of automotive news on television and on the web.

Distributed nationwide and overseas by Maryland Public Television, MotorWeek airs on 92 percent of PBS broadcast stations and can also be seen on cable’s MotorTrend Network.  Program excerpts are available to viewers on the program’s website motorweek.org, and on its YouTube Channel, youtube.com/Motorweek.  Fans can like MotorWeek on Facebook and also follow the series on Instagram and Twitter.

* Denotes Repeat Winner from 2018    

 

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MotorWeek’s Season 38 captures cultural shifts and car reviews 9.07.2018

MotorWeek’s Season 38 captures cultural shifts, car reviews and unconventional views on traditional car ownership 

 

OWINGS MILLS, MD – MotorWeek, television’s original and longest-running automotive magazine series, pulls into season 38 with an eye on cultural and lifestyle shifts and their impact on the automotive industry. Host John Davis and the MotorWeek team invite viewers on the ride to experience all that’s new for 2019 model year, when driver convenience means more than a custom ride and “sharing” extends beyond the road. MotorWeek premieres on public television stations across the country beginning Saturday, September 8 (check local PBS listings).

 

Independence and freedom have always been the cornerstones of car ownership. MotorWeek tracks how unconventional modes and methods of moving people, such as peer-to-peer ride-sharing and rent-by-the-minute electric scooters, are starting to fill those needs, but with less owner responsibility. “American car culture has moved far beyond personalizing options on the car itself,” says MotorWeek host John Davis. “It’s about personalizing how people get where they want, and need, to be.” 

 

Davis says that dynamic changes are not limited to the car industry – these cultural shifts are affecting lifestyle, budget, environmental footprint and routine. Vehicle usage has become as diverse and personalized as that of our mobile devices. Empowered consumers continue to dictate vehicle assets like reliability, safety, environmental impact, economy and luxury by their purchase preferences, but they are also changing how those vehicles play into their personal lifestyle choices.

 

“Car ownership isn’t going away,” says Davis. “The paradigm for ‘why’ some people are buying personal cars may be shifting, however. Millennials make up the fastest growing segment among vehicle buyers and likely will represent about 40 percent of the U.S. new-vehicle market by 2020*. They are buying at a higher rate than baby boomers and investing more in their vehicle purchase.”

“The vehicle focus has traditionally been on driver needs, but with ride-sharing, autonomous and self-driving cars, and services like Uber and Lyft, the backseat has never been more important,” says Davis. 

Automotive manufacturers are recognizing these trends and offering new subscription vs. traditional lease options that cater to the driver who might want to switch out an SUV for a convertible or sedan, based on their driving needs at the time. 

 

With some 17 million new cars purchased last year, car buying clearly remains a priority with consumers. MotorWeek’s reviews and road tests of more than 150 new cars, trucks and sport utilities each season are a staple of the show, offering viewers a vicarious experience from behind the driver’s seat as well as from behind the wheel. At the start of season 38 MotorWeek will hit the ignition on a broad variety of all-new models including the Jaguar E-Pace, Honda Insight, Chevrolet Silverado, Porsche Boxster GTS, Hyundai Kona, Acura RDX, and the Ferrari 812 Superfast. 

 

Season 38 of MotorWeek will also cover the rapid mainstream growth of electrified vehicles, and how to maintain them. MotorWeek’s feature line-up includes the return of popular segments such as Goss’ Garage with master technician Pat Goss offering know-it-yourself car care advice. “Over the Edge” reporter Zach Maskell turns up the fun with a look at the auto world in overdrive, while “FYI” reporter Stephanie Hart has consumer focused updates on driving style and automotive safety, money-saving advice, as well as the latest technological advances. MotorWeek’s Brian Robinson takes a very hands-on approach for his “Two Wheelin’” reports with reviews of the newest motorcycles and Yolanda Vazquez keeps viewers in the know with consumer news and trends on “Motor News.” 

 

MotorWeek airs on 90 percent of PBS stations nationwide. Viewers can find out which public television stations air MotorWeek by going to the station listings page on motorweek.org.

Winner of dozens of prestigious automotive journalism awards, MotorWeek is also seen on Discovery’s Velocity cable channel, and on the V-me Spanish-language network.

In addition, MotorWeek is available for every type of video screen and mobile device with up-to-the-minute automotive news, instantaneous driving impressions, and exclusive videos online at motorweek.org. In addition, more than 500 of the latest MotorWeek roadtests are available through series partner cars.com. 

 

Program excerpts are available at pbs.org/motorweek, and MotorWeek’s YouTube Channel, youtube.com/motorweek, with two million views per month. Viewers can also follow MotorWeek on Facebook, Twitter as well as download complete shows on iTunes.

 

MotorWeek is nationally sponsored by TireRack.com, WeatherTech, HUM by Verizon, RockAuto.com and State Farm. MotorWeek is produced and distributed by Maryland Public Television.

 

*Root & Associates

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