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MotorWeek’s 2018 “Best of the Year” Revealed: Kia Stinger 2.08.2018

 

MotorWeek’s 2018 “Best of the Year” Revealed: Kia Stinger

Announced at the Chicago Auto Show, nation’s largest consumer auto show 

 

CHICAGO – The all-new Kia Stinger is MotorWeek’s 2018 Drivers’ Choice Award winner for “Best of the Year,” announced today in Chicago at the nation’s largest consumer automotive showcase. Over an unprecedented 37 years of bringing weekly automotive news to consumers, MotorWeek has evaluated thousands of distinctive cars, all potentially deserving of their “best of” moniker. Every year, the pressure is on to thin the herd to a handful and then to just one winner overall. 

 

The Kia Stinger luxury-sport sedan aimed itself squarely at the compact European sport sedan segment – and with its design team based in Germany, there is little doubt that it earned its style points alongside traditional luxury-performance brands while also looking very different from other cars in the Kia stable.

 

“Dynamic in both design and quality, the Stinger is a superlative example of how to successfully break into the established European sport sedan market –  no easy task –  but the Stinger proves it has what it takes,” says MotorWeek creator and host John Davis. “Delivering on both style and drive, the Stinger is incredibly responsive with great power as well as solid handling and brakes. That’s why the Stinger won our staff’s vote in the “Best Sport Sedan” category, which then put it in the running for our ‘Best of the Year’ honor.” 

 

By design, Kia engineers skipped the typical four-door sedan formula and went directly to the five-door coupe-roofed hatchback so popular outside of America. Then they added capable power from a 365-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 for the top level Stinger GT, while base Stingers get a still-potent 255-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. 

 

“Kia knows it takes some splash to get noticed in the sport sedan segment, and they’ve delivered,” says Davis. “MotorWeek followers count on our awards to steer them towards the cars that are the most fun to drive – after all, that’s the point of our awards.” 

 

In Stinger, the fast-roofed skin cloaks a finely-balanced, rear-drive chassis. Either of the two engine choices found under the long hood is paired with an 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters. Both powertrains can also be fitted with all-wheel drive, a great benefit for buyers in the Midwest and Northeast especially.

 

“While the 2.0 is no slouch, the GT’s V6 powertrain really impressed us with its overall smoothness. Even the paddle shifters work with a quick precision we didn’t expect,” says Davis.

 

Starting at around $32,000 for the 2.0-liter and $40,000 for the GT, Kia has married good looks and a great drive with affordability. 

 

All Drivers’ Choice Award winners are featured on Motorweek.org, and will appear on a special episode (#3723) of MotorWeek airing on public television stations beginning February 10, and on cable’s Velocity beginning February 20.  MotorWeek and the 2018 Drivers’ Choice Awards are nationally sponsored by The Tire Rack, WeatherTech, RockAuto, State Farm and Hum by Verizon.

 

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 2018 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.

 

2018 Drivers’ Choice Award Winners:

 

Best Small Car - Honda Civic**

Best Family Sedan - Honda Accord

Best Convertible - Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Best Luxury Sedan - BMW 5 Series

Best Sport Sedan - Kia Stinger

Best Sport Coupe - Lexus LC 500

Best Performance Car - Dodge Challenger SRT Demon, Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

Best Small Utility - Mazda CX-5

Best Large Utility - Volkswagen Atlas

Best Luxury Utility - Land Rover Range Rover Velar 

Best Minivan - Honda Odyssey 

Best Pickup Truck - Ford F-150 

Best Eco-Friendly - Chevrolet Bolt EV*

Best Dream Machine - Aston Martin DB11, Porsche 911 GT2 RS, Mercedes-Benz G550 4X4²

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 37th 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 the Velocity cable channel.  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 MotorWeek on Instagram and Twitter.

*Denotes Repeat Winner from 2017    **Denotes Repeat Winner from 2016 & 2017

 

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MotorWeek’s Season 37 drives into the future September 9th 8.23.2017

OWINGS MILLS, MD – Drive into the future during season 37 of MotorWeek, television’s original and longest-running automotive magazine series. Join host John Davis and the MotorWeek team to experience all that’s new for 2018, the year where the concept of the ultra-smart “future car” becomes an affordable reality. MotorWeek premieres on public television stations across the country beginning Saturday, September 9 (check local PBS listings).

  

MotorWeek’s new season drives deep into this exciting automotive revolution, one that is altering every aspect of the familiar family car. From rapid advances in self-driving car technologies, to the expanding world of on-the-road connectivity, to greater use of electrical motive power, and even a fundamental change in how a car’s comfort and convenience systems themselves are powered, MotorWeek is ready to be your “future car” GPS.  

 

“When consumers head out to purchase a new car, they are being confronted with dramatic and often confusing changes – things they have never seen on a vehicle before,” says MotorWeek host John Davis. “Semi-autonomous driving capabilities, automatic emergency braking, active cruise control and lane change assist, self-parking modes, in-car Wi-Fi hubs, 48-volt electrics, automatic start-stop, surround view cameras, and the list goes on and on. Not only will consumers find these changes in vehicle amenities surprising, they will also surely change their driving habits forever.”

 

MotorWeek road tests will also be keeping ahead of current consumer buying trends, as the appeal of the traditional cars increasingly gives way to the popularity of trucks and SUVs. New utilities already on our test schedule, such as the Ford Expedition, Mazda CX-5, and Volkswagen Atlas, will face renewed efforts to stem the tide with ground-up redesigns for sedan stalwarts Toyota Camry and Honda Accord among others. 

 

Season 37 of MotorWeek will also continue to analyze the rapid growth of electrified vehicles, and not just plug-in hybrids and full EVs, but how electric assist is being employed to boost both the power and efficiency of traditional internal combustion engines.

 

“In spite of lower gas prices, countries and car companies around the globe are embracing the electrification of the automobile,” explains Davis. “It’s a way to preserve the environment without giving up performance. We’re not talking about the demise of the traditional gasoline and diesel engines but rather taking their efficiency to the next level.”

The American consumer’s appetite for the automobile is insatiable, and in the quest to feed the ongoing frenzy, MotorWeek will continue to road test and review more than 150 new cars, utilities, and trucks throughout the 37^th season.  

 

In addition, during this season MotorWeek will inaugurate two new limited run features focusing on the incredible legacy of the automobile. “Spirit of Competition” will highlight the history of some of the rarest and most significant race cars ever built. But, this is not just a walk around a collection of museum artifacts. MotorWeek will also be behind the wheel of these race winning classics to give viewers a taste of what they were actually like to drive by the checkered flag. 

 

“Retro Roadtests” will expand from its highly successful and exclusive presence online to the television series itself. “Retro Roadtest” looks back at the most exciting and interesting cars MotorWeek tested in its early years. Hearing what was said about those cars then, and knowing how they are viewed today, is guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of everyone who loves cars.

 

In Season 37, MotorWeek’s feature line-up also 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 Lauren Morrison has 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. Finally, Yolanda Vazquez keeps viewers in the know with consumer news and trends on “Motor News.” 

 

MotorWeek airs on 92 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, RockAuto.com, and State Farm. MotorWeek is produced and distributed by Maryland Public Television.

 

MotorWeek’s 2017 “Best of the Year” Revealed: 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV 2.09.2017

Thirty-five years of “Best of…” announced at nation’s largest consumer auto show

Chicago, IL - For 35 of its 36 broadcast years bringing weekly automotive news to consumers, MotorWeek has evaluated thousands of distinctive cars, all potentially deserving of their “best of” moniker. But, every year that crowd is whittled down to a handful and then to just one. This year, MotorWeek announces the Chevrolet Bolt EV as the 2017 Drivers’ Choice Awards “Best of the Year.”

Chevrolet Bolt EV is the new key to the automotive plug-in lifestyle, eliminating range anxiety that often plagues eco-conscious vehicles. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the 5-passenger Chevy Bolt EV has an estimated combined driving range of 238 miles. Further, it hits the sweet spot of the light duty vehicle market being available for purchase at under $30,000 after Federal and State tax incentives are applied.

Winner of this year’s “Best Eco-Friendly” car category put the Bolt EV in contention for overall “Best of the Year.”

“The Chevrolet Bolt EV is the new benchmark of how continuous improvements in technology can transform the ultra-efficient zero-tailpipe-emissions electric car from a novelty into a highly practical alternative to traditional gas and diesel powered cars,” says MotorWeek creator and host John Davis. “MotorWeek’s pick for “Best of the Year” in our Drivers’ Choice Awards line-up is here because General Motors made good on its commitment to an eco-conscious lifestyle, giving consumers an impressive option with a down-to-earth price point. Plus, the Chevrolet Bolt EV can be outfitted with most of the gadgets and entertainment add-ons that are desired by today’s tech-obsessed society. Finally, the Bolt EV also proved to be highly enjoyable to drive. That’s what a Drivers’ Choice Award is all about.”

The Bolt EV’s minor carbon footprint, attractive yet aerodynamic exterior, spacious interior with heated seats, available both front and rear, and built-in WiFi, also exceeded MotorWeek’s standards, making it a clear standout amongst the 14 categories this year that span a wide variety of vehicle segments from “Best Small Car” to “Best Dream Machine.”

“Chevrolet has taken the anxiety-inducing aspects out of driving a totally eco-friendly vehicle, making it more than just a socially acceptable car to drive, but a safe, enjoyable family car at the same time,” says Davis.

“The Bolt EV is a game-changer that makes driving an electric vehicle a more practical and attainable choice for a wider range of customers,” said Brian Sweeney, U.S. vice president of Chevrolet. “We’re honored by MotorWeek’s recognition of the Bolt EV as its car of the year.”

All Drivers’ Choice award winners are featured on MotorWeek.org, and will be appearing on a special episode (#3623) of MotorWeek airing on public television stations beginning February 11, 2017, and on cable’s Velocity beginning February 10, 2017.  MotorWeek and the 2017 Drivers’ Choice Awards are nationally sponsored by TireRack, RockAuto and State Farm.

One of the auto industry’s most coveted honors, The MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Awards were announced at the largest consumer-driven auto show in North America, the 2017 Chicago Auto Show. In selecting the annual Drivers’ Choice Awards, MotorWeek’s editorial staff evaluates more than 150 cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles every year. Winners are chosen based on driving performance, technology, practicality, fuel efficiency, and value.

2017 Drivers’ Choice Winners:

Best Small Car - Honda Civic*

Best Family Sedan - Ford Fusion

Best Convertible - Mini Cooper Convertible

Best Luxury Sedan - Mercedes-Benz E300

Best Sport Sedan - Audi A4

Best Sport Coupe - Chevrolet Camaro*

Best Performance Car - BMW M2

Best Small Utility - Honda CR-V

Best Large Utility - Mazda CX-9

Best Luxury Utility - Jaguar F-Pace

Best Minivan - Chrysler Pacifica

Best Pickup Truck - Nissan Titan*

Best Eco-Friendly - Chevrolet Bolt EV

Best Dream Machine - Acura NSX, McLaren 570GT, Porsche 911 Turbo S

*Denotes Repeat Winner

MotorWeek is television’s longest-running and most-respected automotive series. Debuted 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 36th 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% of PBS broadcast stations and can also be seen on the Velocity cable channel, as well the V-me Spanish-language 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 MotorWeek on Instagram and Twitter.

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MotorWeek kicks off Season 36 September 10 with focus on the evolution of the autonomous car 8.30.2016

OWINGS MILLS, MD -- Season 36 of MotorWeek, television’s original and longest-running automotive series, premieres on public television stations across the country on Saturday, September 10, 2016.

MotorWeek will drive into season 36 with a hands-on exploration of the future of autonomous driving. Host John Davis and the MotorWeek crew will examine how the push toward driverless vehicles is already impacting the cars we drive today. 

This exploration will include reviews of emerging Congested Traffic Self-Drive systems and examination of how safety features such as Automatic Emergency Braking and Lane Keep Assist are maturing as well as influencing new car buying decisions. 

In season 36, MotorWeek also will review additional new advanced safety systems, along with complete semi-autonomous vehicles, such as the Tesla Model X and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, to see if today’s rapid rise in technology will also mean a rapid rise in cost of ownership.

As always, new vehicle road tests remain the core of the series. In season 36, MotorWeek will continue to monitor the march toward higher mandated fuel economy and how the latest powertrain technologies, from turbocharging to all-electrics, are impacting new car designs. From sedans to sport utility vehicles, from exotics to economy cars, the MotorWeek crew gets comfortable behind the wheel of more than 150 vehicles annually. This season, MotorWeek will test the rankings of new entries such as the Jaguar XJL Portfolio, Toyota Prius Prime, the Nissan Titan XD, the Genesis G90, GMC Acadia, and the Audi TTS Coupe.

In season 36, MotorWeek’s feature line-up will continue with the return of popular segments such as Goss’ Garage with master technician Pat Goss offering know-it-yourself car care advice.  Yolanda Vazquez also keeps viewers in the know with consumer news and trends in the “Motor News” segment.  “Over the Edge” reporter Zach Maskell turns up the fun with a look at the auto world in overdrive, while feature reporter Lauren Morrison delivers information on driving and automotive safety, money-saving advice, as well as the latest technological advances in her “FYI” reports.  Finally, MotorWeek’s Brian Robinson takes a very hands-on look at the two-wheel experience, reviewing the newest motorcycles and scooters in his “Two Wheelin’” reports. 

Produced and distributed by Maryland Public Television, MotorWeek airs on 92% of PBS stations nationwide and can also be seen on the V-me Spanish-language network.  Winner of dozens of prestigious automotive journalism awards, MotorWeek is also seen on the Velocity channel.  Program excerpts are available to viewers on the program’s website, motorweek.org, and on its YouTube Channel, youtube.com/Motorweek.

To find out which public television station in your area airs MotorWeek, go to motorweek.org and click on find your station. MotorWeek can also be seen on pbs.org, Discovery’s Velocity channel and the V-me Spanish language television network. You can also find MotorWeek on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and iTunes.

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

MotorWeek 2016 Drivers’ Choice Best of the Year: The 2016 Volvo XC90 2.11.2016

OWINGS MILLS, MD -- MotorWeek names the Volvo XC90 as the 2016 Drivers’ Choice Awards “Best of the Year”. The all-new XC90 was the clear standout amongst the 13 categories this year that span from a wide variety of vehicle segments from “Best Small Car” to “Best Dream Machine.” The Volvo XC90 is the first utility vehicle to win the top Drivers’ Choice honor in the 34 year history of the awards. The Volvo XC90 also won the honor of “Best Luxury Utility.” 

Fourteen years have passed since Volvo made its mark in the three-row luxury crossover segment with its first XC90. That first XC90 proved to be the right vehicle at the right time, and this innovative second-generation 7-seater scores again. The Volvo XC90 impresses with top notch safety, otherworldly comfort, and extra family-friendly features; all wrapped up in an unmistakably Swedish style.

“In selecting the Volvo XC90 as our Drivers’ Choice Best of The Year, we’re honoring both the car and the brand for their supreme achievement.” says MotorWeek Creator and Host John Davis. “The XC90 is not only a vehicle we like to drive, but one we like to be surrounded by as well. That doesn’t mean it’s a cocoon, but rather one that invites the driver and occupants to be involved with it. The technology, the safety, and of course the luxury, are all very personal in this car. Plus, Volvo, in this one new design, completely changed our perception of the brand; from conservative and safe to visionary and smart. Be it the advanced powertrain and chassis, or just the ease at which everything in the XC90 is controlled. Plus, this ground breaking crossover is priced as much for those that live on Main Street as on Wall Street.”

"We are honored to receive a MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award for the Volvo XC90, the first of a new generation of vehicles from Volvo Cars. The XC90 brings Volvo firmly into the luxury space and fully represents the company’s new direction," said Dean Shaw, Vice President, Corporate Communications, Volvo Car USA. 

All Drivers’ Choice winners are featured on Motorweek.org, and will be appearing on a special episode (#3523) of MotorWeek airing on public television stations beginning February 12, 2016, and on cable’s Velocity beginning February 23, 2016. MotorWeek and the 2016 Driver’s Choice Awards are nationally sponsored by RockAuto and Tire Rack.

Known as one of the auto industry’s most coveted honors, The MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Awards were announced at the largest consumer-driven auto show in North America, the 2016 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.

2016 Drivers’ Choice Winners:

Best Small Car - Honda Civic

Best Family Sedan - Chevrolet Malibu         

Best Convertible - Mazda MX-5

Best Luxury Sedan - Jaguar XF

Best Sport Sedan - Nissan Maxima

Best Sport Coupe - Chevrolet Camaro

Best Performance Car - Ford Shelby GT350R Mustang

Best Small Utility - Hyundai Tucson

Best Large Utility - Honda Pilot

Best Luxury Utility - Volvo XC90

Best Pickup Truck - Nissan Titan XD

Best Eco-Friendly - Chevrolet Volt

Best Dream Machine - Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 SV, Mercedes-AMG GT S, Land Rover Range Rover Sport SVR

 

MotorWeek is television’s longest-running and most-respected automotive series.  Debuted 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 35th 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% of PBS stations and can also be seen on the Velocity channel and V-me Spanish-language 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 MotorWeek on Instagram and Twitter.

Lauren Morrison joins MotorWeek as feature reporter/producer 10.21.2015

Veteran TV reporter and anchor Lauren Morrison has joined the staff of the national TV series MotorWeek.  In her new role with the 35-season series, Morrison will serve as feature reporter and producer for the show’s consumer-oriented “FYI” segments. 

As part of the MotorWeek production staff, Morrison will cover trends in the automotive industry that directly affect car ownership such as evolving automotive safety technology and the integration of personal digital devices into routine car operation.  On a lighter note, she will also be free to explore the backroads of America’s automotive love affair to seek out special destinations that no car enthusiast should miss. Her MotorWeek “FYI” segments will continue to follow a fun- and fact-filled format that has both entertained and enlightened viewers for decades.

“I’m excited to start this new adventure, but, let me tell you, my dad and brother sure are jealous! I can finally put all those hours in the garage and at the track with them to good use,” says Morrison.

Prior to joining MotorWeek, Morrison was a morning reporter and fill-in anchor at WAFF, the NBC affiliate in Huntsville, AL.  Before her tenure with WAFF, Morrison was an evening news anchor at WABI, the CBS affiliate in Bangor, ME.  Originally from Florida, Morrison is an alumna of Florida State University in Tallahassee where she earned her bachelor's degree in media and communications studies.

 “We are delighted that Lauren has joined the staff of MotorWeek,” says show host John Davis.  “Her experience in producing and reporting a wide variety of timely stories, mixed with a profound affection for all things cars, makes her a perfect fit with our audience,” he adds.

 

National series MotorWeek celebrates 35 years in public television with special anniversary episode 10.07.2015

The 35-year anniversary special of television’s longest-running automotive series, MotorWeek, premieres on public television stations across the country on Saturday, October 10, 2015.

In this special anniversary episode, the MotorWeek crew digs deep into the archives to put together an entertaining and informative ride through time.  Feature segments will track the evolution of automotive styling over the past 35 years; re-visit MotorWeek’s Drivers’ Choice Award winners to see which picks have stood the test of time; showcase the most iconic and influential vehicles we’ve road-tested; reminisce over our favorite adventures, destinations and people; and poke a bit of fun at ourselves with a classic selection of humorous bloopers, flubs and spins.

Throughout the rest of MotorWeek’s 35^th season, Host and Executive Producer John Davis will continue to lead a team of on-air reporters in rigorously testing and evaluating new vehicles; assessing performance, practicality, efficiency, and safety.  More than 150 cars, trucks and SUVs are examined annually for the benefit of viewers.

MotorWeek’s feature line-up will continue with the return of popular segments such as Goss’ Garage with MotorWeek’s resident Master Technician Pat Goss offering do-it-yourself car care advice. Yolanda Vazquez also keeps viewers in the know with consumer news and trends in the “Motor News” segment. Zach Maskell turns up the fun with a look at the auto world in overdrive during the “Over the Edge” segment. Lauren Morrison delivers timely information on driving and automotive safety, money-saving advice and technological advances in the “FYI” segment. Brian Robinson takes a very hands-on look at the two-wheel experience reviewing the newest motorcycles and scooters in the Two Wheelin’ segment. MotorWeek will also accelerate its coverage of the use of alternative fuels and advances in green-power technologies as consumers race toward a cleaner driving future.

Produced and distributed by Maryland Public Television, MotorWeek airs on 92% of PBS stations nationwide and can also be seen on the V-me Spanish language network.  Winner of dozens of prestigious automotive journalism awards, MotorWeek is also seen on the Velocity channel.  Program excerpts are available to viewers on the program’s website, MotorWeek.org, and on its YouTube Channel, youtube.com/MotorWeek. Viewers can also find MotorWeek on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. 

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

National series MotorWeek marks 35 years on public television 9.11.2015

Season 35 of television’s longest-running automotive series, MotorWeek, premieres on public television stations across the country on Saturday, September 12, 2015.

Episodes of the 2015-2016 season will explore what MotorWeek producers call the 21^st century revolution of the car that includes such developments as self-driving technologies and the use of electric, natural gas, and even hydrogen to power automobiles.

MotorWeek creator, host, and senior executive producer John Davis cites the enormous change in the average family car over the decades since the program premiered on October 15, 1981.  “Every part of the automobile has undergone transformation,” he notes, “with the biggest changes in powertrain and control design since the automobile was first invented.”

Season 35 of MotorWeek will draw parallels from the past with on air transformations dating back to the 80’s. The series will also pause from time to time to look back at how far the “family car” has come over our generation plus on the air, through both a special anniversary episode, and through weekly MotorWeek Flashback vignettes. This season MotorWeek will look over the vehicles that were cutting edge back in the 80’s and comparing those to vehicles that are cutting edge today.

John Davis will again lead a team of on-air reporters for MotorWeek’s 35^th season in rigorously testing and evaluating new vehicles and assessing cars’ performance, practicality, efficiency, and safety.  More than 150 cars are examined annually for the benefit of viewers.  During the upcoming season, rare exotics such as the Mercedes-AMG GT-S and Bentley Mulsanne Speed will be featured as well as more practical types of transportation that families depend upon such as new generations of the Honda Civic, Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Maxima and the first-of-its-kind Tesla Model X crossover.

MotorWeek’s feature line-up will continue with the return of popular segments like Goss’ Garage with MotorWeek’s resident Master Technician Pat Goss offering do-it-yourself car care advice; Yolanda Vazquez also keeps viewers in the know with consumer news and trends in Motor News; Over the Edge Reporter Zach Maskell turns up the fun with a look at the auto world in overdrive; while Brian Robinson takes a very hands-on look of the two-wheel experience reviewing the newest motorcycles and scooters in Two Wheelin’. MotorWeek will also accelerate its coverage of the use of alternative fuels and advances in green power technologies as we race toward a cleaner driving future.

Produced and distributed by Maryland Public Television, MotorWeek airs on 92% of PBS stations nationwide and can also be seen on the V-me Spanish-language network.  Winner of dozens of prestigious automotive journalism awards, MotorWeek is also seen on the Velocity channel.  Program excerpts are available to viewers on the program’s website, motorweek.org, and on its YouTube Channel, youtube.com/Motorweek.

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