February in Florida is a dream for most; sunny skies, warm temps and cool cars – lots of them!  All that and then some came together for Winter AutoFest in Lakeland.  Spanning February 22-24, 2019 at the SUN ‘n FUN Campus, the event proved to be the best Lakeland offering yet for Carlisle Events.  The event success was due in part to a dedicated core of automotive enthusiasts within the Sunshine State and beyond.

 

Winter AutoFest was billed as a Friday through Sunday show, but people showed up Thursday jonesing for an automotive fix.  While some got an early jump on the automotive flea market shopping on set up day, it was the Friday through Sunday morning offerings that really brought show-goers out. 

 

When gates opened Friday at 8 a.m., there were lines of anxious enthusiasts, proving that the demand for an event like this is real.  Once on grounds, the lines snaked past hundreds of cars parked within the FREE cruise-in as well as vendors who set up in the blue field.  Waiting for these same guests past the tree line at SUN ‘n FUN were hundreds more vendors, thousands more pieces, parts, merchandise and collectibles, plus nearly 1,500 cars spanning the auction, car corral, free cruise-in, NCRS Winter Regional event, Corvette Fun Field and Imperial Mustang Club of Polk County Mustang showcase.  Of that estimate, the Corvette and Mustang camps were able to boast over 300 cars each.  Of course there was a hearty line of people at the food stands too, enjoying the unique fair-style offerings.

 

Saturday ushered in even more guests and cars for a full day of festivities.  GM Certified Technician Paul Koerner returned for another day of tech sessions and tech talks, former FBI agent and 9/11 first-responder Wes Wong spoke at the auction, while the Fly Adventure team from St. Augustine was up and down all day with their vintage Stearman Bi-Plane offering rides high above the facility.  Speaking of the aforementioned auction, it offered yet another entertainment option with two days of live fun.  The top seller was a 1965 Corvette, going for $72,760, with the top 5 overall garnering $274,455.  All dollar amounts include fees applicable to the sale.

 

Other highlights included seminars from Kevin Mackay of Corvette Repair Inc, Corvette vs. Cobra from Fabulous Restorations and a Resto Mod talk from Extreme Mid-Years LLC.  There was also a special screening of The Quest, a Corvette documentary film directed and produced by Michael Brown.  Brown, Mackay and Lance Miller were also on hand to sign copies of the DVD following the screening with monies benefiting the Chip Miller Amyloidosis Foundation.

 

As the show wrapped on Sunday, guests had one last chance to pick up a little something within the automotive flea market, make a deal on a car corral sale or work with the auction team on a Still for Sale consignment. 

 

Another piece of news coming out of the show was Carlisle Auctions announcement of a two-day auction only event in Sarasota, Florida.  Suncoast-Carlisle spans November 8-9, 2019.  More details will be released on this event in the coming weeks, but complete info on Winter AutoFest can be found at www.CarlisleEvents.com, while auction news comes via www.CarlisleAuctions.com.  Save the date, because Winter AutoFest 2020 returns to SUN ‘n FUN February 21-23. 

Since Honda Pilot was introduced to the public in 2002, as the first three-row, mainstream SUV to be developed on a car-like unit-body platform, it has been a favorite in America, as the 2 millionth Pilot was sold in North America in January, and its top sales year coming last year with 159,615 units sold in North America. Pilot also has garnered high brand loyalty, with approximately 63 percent of Pilot buyers returning to purchase another Honda vehicle.

 

Last re-engineered from the ground up for the 2016 model year, the family adventure vehicle gets a mid-generation freshening for 2019 with restyling, added tech capabilities and new features.

 

Borrowing inspiration from Honda’s Odyssey minivan, the 2019 Pilot restyles with an aggressive new grille featuring a bold interpretation of the Honda “flying wing” design, and sporty front fascia with standard LED low-beam headlights. The rear features new taillights, a new bumper, and chrome accents. Updates to the interior include a redesigned steering wheel, new trim around the vents and wider fold-down armrests for the driver and front passenger. Additionally, the clock-radio-style digital speedometer and analog tachometer have been replaced with a larger high-res central screen and enhanced infotainment system. The 2019 augmentations also include a number of refinements to the 9-speed automatic transmission available in Touring and Elite models, and the Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety features is now standard for all trims.

 

The eight-person family utility vehicle is built with unit-body construction with angular architecture and a muscular demeanor. The 2019 Pilot measures 196.5 inches in length; 78.6 inches in width; and a wind-attracting at 70.6 inches in height on a 111.0-inch wheelbase. Ground clearance is 7.3 inches, and curbweight ranges from 4036 lbs. to 4306 lbs. depending in trim and extras.

 

Inside, Pilot is filled with soft-touch materials throughout the cabin and tech runs supreme throughout and now benefits from a variety of enhancements and upgrades to its audio/connectivity and driver convenience. Pilot's new instrument cluster now uses a 7-inch Thin Film Transistor with a wide range of information content and driver-selectable customizable features.

 

Standard in Pilot EX trims and above, its 8-inch touchscreen uses gestures common to smartphones and tablets, such as swipe, tap and pinch, to control the vehicle's audio system, display settings and other advanced features, while also adding a volume knob. Pilot LX, EX, and EX-L models get a 218-watt audio system with six speakers plus a subwoofer; and Touring and Elite models get an updated 10-speaker 590-watt system with a subwoofer.

 

The Pilot cabin is accommodating, with headroom for the EX-L I tested of 39.5 inches up front (some trim models reach 40.1 inches), 39.9 inches in row two and 38.9 in row three. Legroom is 40.9 inches in the front row, 38.4 inches in the middle row and a child-accommodating 31.9 inches in row three. Shoulder room comes in at a comfy 62.0, 62.0 and 57.6.

 

The 2019 Pilot powers up with a 280hp, 262 lb-ft of torque 3.5-liter V6 engine. Depending on the trim model, it is mated either to a 6-speed automatic or 9-speed automatic transmission.  My EX-L trim was outfitted with a 6-speed and was EPA rated at 18 mpg/city, 26mpg/highway and 21mpg overall in AWD. My mixed-use tests showed an average of 21.1mpg.

 

My Pilot showed good road manners, a quiet cabin and a smooth, bump-resistant experience. The unit-body construction body and chassis are mated to a MacPherson Strut Front Suspension and a Multi-Link rear with front and rear stabilizer bars, resulting in a level and attentive experience. Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering is compliant and understeer is apparent only in the quickest of maneuvers.

 

Acceleration is better than expected for a 3-row family mover, and handling is a bit vague. But zero-to-60mph tests were accomplished in 6.6 seconds, with a quarter-mile dispatched in 15.2 seconds (hand-timed) in less-than-perfect road conditions.

 

Honda remains committed to safety, and for 2019, all Pilot models come standard with the Honda Sensing® suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies. Honda Sensing® helps provide greater awareness of driving conditions around the vehicle, and in some cases helps drivers maintain lane position. Comprising the Honda Sensing® suite are Collision Mitigation Braking System™ with Forward Collision Warning; Road Departure Mitigation; Lane Keeping Assist System; and Adaptive Cruise Control.

 

The 2019 Honda Pilot is available in five trims, starting with the LX at $31.450 for 2WD; the EX starts at $34,330; the EX-L starts at $37,760; the Touring trim starts at $42,540 and the top-of-the-line Elite trim starts at $48,020. My Obsidian Blue Pearl test EX-L was loaded with standard items including a leather-trimmed interior, power tailgate, one-touch power moonroof, two-position memory for driver's seat, 4-way power passenger's seat, automatic-dimming rearview mirror, integrated 2nd-row sunshades, HomeLink® remote system and three USB charging ports. I always opt for 4WD and that added $1900 to the sticker. Body side molding added $225; crossbars with black roof rails added $750; low-profile hood air deflector added $100; black running boards added $450; my Gray leather interior added all-season floor mats for $208; and back-up sensors added $500. With destination and handling fees of $1045, my test 2019 Honda Pilot EX-L stickered at $42,438 (by comparison, that is only $8 above the similarly outfitted 2016 EX-L I tested for this column.

 

 

> Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.

 

Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years. </I>

 

 

The Carlisle Chrysler Nationals hosts some of the best collectible and classic rides in the world.  The annual weekend returns July 12-14 at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds and for 2019, guests of all ages have a new collectible option.  Carlisle Events and M2 Machines are giving guests a collectible as scarce as their real-life counterparts; a 1969 Plymouth Barracuda with the rare M-Code 440.

M2 Machines is no stranger to collectibles at Carlisle, having partnered with the Chrysler Nationals since 2016 with a die-cast to commemorate 50 years of the iconic Dodge Charger.  True to previous form, the 2019 option is a 1:64 scale die-cast and its ’69 design perfectly complements the overall Summer of ’69 theme at Carlisle in 2019.  In addition to a focus on the rare M-Code 440, the sinister look comes from the X9 Black Velvet paint and the red interior really makes an impact.  The look is capped perfectly with the infamous Recall Wheels from Kelsey Hayes and redline tires to break up all of that black.

Get them while they last, because just 750 will be produced.  Not only did M2 design these gems, but they’ll come with the official logo of the 2019 Carlisle Chrysler Nationals 50th anniversary logo of the M-Code A-Body Darts and Barracudas.  Remember, production is limited and once they are gone…they are gone!  Pre-orders are available now via store.carlisleevents.com and MUST be picked up in-person during event weekend in July.  These amazing collectibles are just $15, but there’s a limit of 3 per customer.  Get yours today before they end up on eBay or within our automotive flea market for three times the price!  

The world’s largest all-Mopar event kicks off with a FREE cruise-in and kick-off party on July 11 at the Carlisle Expo Center.  That party is the appetizer to the main course at the adjacent fairgrounds where 40,000+ guests and nearly 3,000 cars come to park and party!  The size of the automotive flea market is unmatched in the hobby and the showfield is beyond diverse, featuring all eras of production.  From the annual Mopar Survivor’s Tent to the featured vehicle displays to the anniversaries and more, this event has it all.  Speaking of features, 2019 features the aforementioned M-Code A-Body, plus 50 years of the Dodge Charger Daytona & 500, 50 (and ½) Years of the A12 Road Runner & Super Bee, plus a nod to the automotive Summer of ’69.

Getting involved is easy, too.  It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to show, sell or spectate, tickets and details are available at www.CarlisleEvents.com or by calling 717-243-7855.

Let’s make a deal at Carlisle!  Afterall, isn’t that what the picking culture is all about?  Spring and Fall Carlisle offer acres of vendors and millions of items for sale.  There are hidden gems and guests are encouraged to always expect the unexpected.  For 2019, Carlisle Events is bringing guests even closer to the action AND helping make the process a little simpler via the VIP Power Picker Program.

All-new for Spring Carlisle (April 24-28) and returning for Fall Carlisle (October 3-5), this special VIP feature helps you get in, get everything you want and get out with ease.  It’s all just $99 and here’s how it works!

The VIP access pass offers its holder access to the grounds for all five days of the event, plus early access starting Monday of event week.  That means starting April 22 for Spring and September 30 for Fall the grounds are yours – from sun up to sun down.  Shop till you drop!  You’ll get the same access as vendors at Carlisle!  In addition to the ultra-early access, you receive ON GROUNDS parking by Gate 4, though spaces are available on a first come-first served basis. 

While this initial space comes with your $99 purchase, if additional space for trailer parking or a flatbed is required, you will need to buy an additional space for $50 per space.  Also, if you have a passenger who doesn’t want the VIP treatment, they will need to pay either $12 per day or $35 for a five-day pass. 

Now that you’re on-site, Carlisle Events wants to help you shop with ease. As part of your access, you’ll get a FREE canvas shopping tote sponsored by Hemmings Motor News.  In addition, you’ll receive FREE direct taxi service from your parking space to a drop spot of your choosing and FREE parts hauling from pick up to your space, a window decal, a FREE coffee voucher from Shuman’s concessions on the west end of the food court, a FREE pre-qualified bidders badge for the two-day auction, powered by Carlisle Auctions (if pre-qualified 14 days prior to the event), a VIP lanyard and badge identifying you as a VIP Power Picker and of course, the pride in the fact that you’re coming to Carlisle to buy, sell and trade all things automotive. 

Come hungry and leave happy because the VIP pass also affords you two meal tickets, one for Thursday and the other for Friday, at our neighboring auction at the Carlisle Expo Center. Thursday and Friday meals are served between approximately 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Much like on-site parking, food is available while supplies last. Again, this cost is just $99 for the entire five-day event but has a retail value of much, much more! Plus, even more goodies will be coming your way before Fall Carlisle starts in October. You may also obtain Power Picker status on a per-day basis of $40, if there is space available. Certain restrictions may apply. 

If you’re a VIP Power Picker, then you’re a privileged enthusiast who knows a good deal when you see it. Register today at www.CarlisleEvents.com or by calling 717-243-7855 and don’t miss out on the fun. 

Acura revamped and upleveled its luxury SUV lineup in 2001, when it replaced the SLX with a newly initialed mid-size crossover that was created to supply “Multi-Dimensional luXury," or MDX. In other Acura initialese, RDX hit the scene as Acura’s first luxury crossover SUV in 2006, and for 2019, RDX is all-new for its third generation. Now, RDX may mean Rapid Detonating Explosive in military terms, but RDX letters have no special meaning -- just a marketing grouping of letters. However, RDX is special, as the 2019 version is the first in a new generation of Acura models designed and engineered around Acura's innovative Precision Crafted Performance brand values. A top-seller in the premium compact SUV niche, RDX’s new generation model the first to be designed and engineered in America, with styling design conducted in the Acura Design Studio in Los Angeles, California, and development conducted by Acura’s engineering team headquartered in Raymond, Ohio, adjacent to the RDX's manufacturing home in East Liberty, Ohio where RDX is produced using domestic and globally sourced parts.



New for 2019  are such powertrain items as a VTEC Turbo® 2.0-liter, DOHC direct-injected inline-4 engine, 10-Speed Automatic Transmission with Sequential SportShift, Acura Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ and 4-mode Integrated Dynamics System.



But the first things you see are exterior changes that include: improved aerodynamics with specially shaped front-end components, a more rigid, lightweight and acoustically sealed chassis, repositioned rear spoiler, and a rounded in-motion demeanor. Interior augmentations include Acura True Touchpad Interface™ with 10.2-inch HD display, Acura sports seats with available full-grain perforated Milano leather and up to 16-way power adjustment (12-way standard), Natural Language Voice Recognition, Frameless interior rearview mirror with integrated HomeLink™, available heated steering wheel and available Surround-View Camera System.



The 2019 RDX strikes a more aggressive and athletic pose with a long and wide stance, wheels pushed to the corners and sharply sculpted design details. Premium exterior details include all-LED lighting featuring the next generation of Acura's Jewel Eye™ LED headlights and an ultra-wide power tilt and slide panoramic moonroof, standard on all grades. Gaining length, width and height, RDX now measures 186.8 inches long (up 2.4 inches), 65.7 inches high (0.7 inches higher) and 74.8 inches wide (1.1 inches wider) on a 108.3-inch wheelbase (2.6 inches longer) and weighing in at about 3783 lbs. (47 lbs. lighter). Ground clearance is about the same at 8.2 inches.



The new RDX has changed its muscle delivery system for an interesting approach to more power and better acceleration. Available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations, RDX is now powered by a new direct-injected and turbocharged 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC inline-4-cylinder engine with VTEC® valvetrain. Mated to a niche-first 10-speed automatic transmission, there is a peak output of 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. That’s down seven ponies from the last-gen 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V-8 model, but that’s made up for by the increase of 28 lb-ft of torque. What you get is better off-the-line and passing acceleration, and higher efficiency. Reliable on uphill grades, passing at speed and low-end around-town performance, RDX surprised me at the track with a (hand-timed) 5.8-second zero-to-60 sprint and a 14.5-second quarter-mile.



Fuel efficiency was solid for the segment with an EPA rating of 21mpg/city, 27mpg/highway and 23mpg/combined. My 400 miles of mixed-use tests showed an average of 22.2mpg; and handling was also better-than-expected for the segment, with little understeer, a smooth ride and average body sway and top wobble during autocross maneuvers.



The new RDX offers a high level of convenience and new technology in a more spacious cabin. High-end appointments, including authentic brushed aluminum accents and available genuine Olive Ash wood trim, hand-wrapped and stitched leather trim, and softer, more durable full-grain Milano leather seating surfaces. Filled with tech, infotainment and comfort, the RDX cabin affords ample room for five, providing a 0.9-inch gain in front headroom, at 39.6 inches, and 0.2 in. more in row two at 38.3; legroom lost 0.4 inches in front, at 41.6, but gained 0.1 in the rear at 38.4; and shoulder room increased by an inch up front at 59.7 inches, with rear shoulder room down 0.6 at 56.6 inches.



The third-generation RDX offers the highest level of standard safety and driver-assistance features in the model's history – and in its class. The AcuraWatch™ suite of driver-assistance technologies is now standard on all RDX grades, along with a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, while the Technology Package and higher grades add Blind Spot Information, front and rear parking sensors and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor.



The 2019 Acura RDX starts at $37,400 in Front-Wheel Drive. White Diamond Pearl was my no-charge exterior color, matched to an Ebony interior. The standard 19-inch Glitter Silver wheels beat spending $2000-$3000 for cosmetic wheel upgrades. Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ was added for $2000; and  the Technology Package added $3200 for  Premium Perforated Milano Leather-Trimmed Sport Seats, GPS-Linked Climate Control, Rear Doors, Smart Key Entry, Premium Audio System with 12 Speakers, Acura Navigation System with 3D View, HD Radio™, Song By Voice®, Traffic Rerouting, AcuraLink®, Blind Spot Information System, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, Front and Rear Parking Sensors, and oh yeah, I got a wheel upgrade anyway -- 19-in Pewter Gray Metallic Machine-Finished Wheels. All-Season Floor mats added $175, Silver Cross Bars added $299 and Destination charges of $995 put the sticker-as-tested at $44,629.


Visit www.CarlisleEvents.com for more on the automotive hobby.



Mike Blake, former editor of KIT CAR magazine, joined Carlisle Events as senior automotive journalist in 2004. He's been a "car guy" since the 1960s and has been writing professionally for about 30 years.