MAMA News

Joliet, Illinois (Oct. 7) – The Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) recently held its annual Fall Rally, where nearly 80 media members gathered to test-drive more than 50 of the industry’s latest cars, trucks and SUVs. Held at the Autobahn Country Club in Joliet, the 2019 MAMA Fall Rally was presented by Subaru and offered journalists ample opportunities to put brand-new vehicles – such as the 2020 Cadillac XT6, 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 2020 Ford Escape, 2020 Lincoln Aviator and 2020 Toyota Supra – through their paces on track, on street and off road.

Toyota revved attendees’ engines with a breakfast and an opening presentation on the 2020 GR Supra. Toyota North America Senior Product Specialist Thomas Kretschmann discussed the highly anticipated return of the Supra – after a 21-year hiatus – and highlighted the sports car’s performance, capability and style.

“The 2020 GR Supra was designed to evoke passion in driving,” said Kretschmann. “Seeing the MAMA members who got to experience the vehicle at the rally with smiles on their faces shows the GR Supra is the complete package – great both on and off the track.”

The 2020 Supra is now on sale and is available in 3.0 and 3.0 Premium trim levels, as well as an exclusive Launch Edition based on the 3.0 Premium grade. The manufacturer didn’t miss the opportunity to bring not one, but two 2020 Toyota GR Supras for MAMA journalists to experience.

Following the morning session of driving on track, on street and off road, Honda refueled Fall Rally attendees with lunch and a presentation on the 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, signaling the first electrified SUV from the Honda brand in the U.S. 

“The Honda CR-V is the best-selling CUV over the past two decades and the updates we've made to the 2020 model, including a new hybrid-electric variant, solidify its position in this highly competitive segment,” said Steve Kinkade, head of Honda brand public relations, American Honda Motor Co. “We were excited to share key details on this important vehicle as well as our broader electrification strategy with the Midwest Automotive Media Association.”

Throughout the day, journalists also had the opportunity to maneuver 4WD and AWD trucks and SUVs through an off-road course, sponsored by Jeep. Participating vehicles included the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison, 2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, 2019 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk, 2020 Kia Telluride and 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro.

MAMA also encouraged members to test-drive contenders for the MAMA Family Vehicle and Luxury Family Vehicle of the Year Awards. To qualify, candidates for each category must be four-door, family-capable vehicles and be present at the MAMA Spring or Fall Rallies. Voting MAMA members chose the following Family Vehicle of the Year finalists at the 2019 MAMA Fall Rally: the 2020 Ford Escape, 2020 Ford Explorer, 2020 Hyundai Palisade, and 2020 Subaru Outback. The Luxury Family Vehicle of the Year Award finalists are the 2020 Cadillac XT6 and 2020 Lincoln Aviator.

These vehicles will join the list of finalists from the 2019 MAMA Spring Rally, and a final round of voting will take place online. Both the MAMA Family Vehicle of the Year Award and Luxury Family Vehicle of the Year Award winners will be announced at the MAMA opening breakfast during the 2020 Chicago Auto Show on Feb. 6.

The MAMA Fall Rally is one of two track events the media association hosts each year. MAMA also organizes monthly meetings for its members; the upcoming meeting event schedule can be found at www.mamaonline.org.

For more information on the Midwest Automotive Media Association, please visit www.mamaonline.org.

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About the Midwest Automotive Media Association

Founded in 1991 and now in its 28^th year, the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) comprises more than 250 automotive journalists and industry professionals from approximately 23 states and the District of Columbia. Though based in the Chicago area, MAMA welcomes members from all parts of the country. The organization’s primary purpose is to provide a forum for newsworthy people, current issues and new products in the auto industry.

Last week, the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) hosted MAMA’s August meeting to share an update on the advanced high-strength steel industry, as well as provide attendees a glimpse at what an autonomous vehicle may look and feel like through a virtual reality experience.

According to AISI, as autonomous vehicles grow in popularity, “traditional” virtues such as performance, value sustainability and occupant protection will become that much more critical. Dr. Jody Hall, vice president, automotive, AISI, shared recent findings with the MAMA group to reinstate why it’s safer, more efficient and more sustainable for manufacturers to build vehicles with steel versus aluminum or carbon fiber, for example. Hall cited aluminum as steel’s direct competition, as carbon fiber is used in niche circumstances.

Consumer Preferences

Based on a recent study, AISI found that 90 percent of consumers believe that steel is stronger, safer and more durable than aluminum, and that most consumers prefer a vehicle made from steel versus one manufactured with aluminum. These assumptions greatly impact their purchase decision.  

Moreover, 71 percent of consumers cite price as being one of the most important criteria when purchasing a vehicle.

Finally, 60 percent of consumers buy a vehicle for its appealing physical design and ease of entry and exit.

Cost and Efficiency

AISI states that the strength of steel allows automakers to design more efficiently and safely to achieve important objectives such as performance. Because of its higher strength, manufacturers can use less of the material to complete the same amount of work. It’s all about input vs. output.

AISI also argues that, with aluminum, manufacturers have to change a vehicle’s structure to achieve the same objectives, thus driving up the cost to produce the vehicle and being less efficient overall.

Steel is known for its outstanding formability, interior spaciousness and smaller structural sections, hitting on the aforementioned points regarding consumer preference.

Steel and the Industry

A study conducted by Ducker Worldwide in 2014 predicted that seven out of 10 new pickup trucks produced in North America would be aluminum-bodied within a decade. Seven years later, the Ford F-150 is the only pickup that is all-aluminum. AISI lists cost, efficiency and sustainability as the top three reasons automakers have stuck with steel.  

Steel and the Environment

Not only is steel safe, cost-effective and efficient, it’s also easily recycled (steel is recycled more than any other material) and low on CO2 emissions (due to its efficiency). Only the greenest cars rely on steel and its light carbon footprint. Dr. Hall reinforced the importance of looking at the entire lifecycle of a product.

In conclusion, AISI’s stance is that steel continues to be a sound material for automakers. With more than 200 grades of advanced high-strength steel, the steel industry is providing automakers numerous benefits in design capabilities, fuel economy, strength, durability and value for both traditional and, in the near future, self-driving vehicles.

Media members are encouraged to visit AISI’s press site for additional details and assets: https://www.autosteel.org/press.

In regards to upcoming MAMA events, registration is now open for the 2019 MAMA Fall Rally, which will be held at the Autobahn Country Club on Wednesday, Oct. 2. If you have questions regarding the rally, registration or sponsorship opportunities, please contact webmaster@mamaonline.org.

South Haven, Mich. (Aug. 1, 2019) –The Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA), along with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, hosted the fifth annual MAMA Track Driving School this week at GingerMan Raceway in South Haven, Michigan. CGI Motorsports led 20 automotive journalists in a track training session covering everything from braking techniques, vehicle weight-transfer management, vision instructions and appropriate driving position.

The real schooling took place outside of the classroom and on the actual track, where MAMA media members were able to put a variety of vehicles through their paces, including an Alfa Romeo Guilia, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Dodge Challenger Scat Pack Widebody, Dodge Charger Scat Pack, Dodge Durango SRT, Fiat 124 Spider Abarth, Fiat 500 Abarth and a Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. Since the inaugural track school in 2015, MAMA has provided professional instruction to a total of 102 students.

“MAMA hosts two signature track events a year, our Spring and Fall Rallies, so it’s imperative that our members are trained on how to properly drive on a racetrack,” said MAMA President Damon Bell.

Throughout the day, both novice and intermediate drivers were paired with driving instructors from CGI Motorsports to learn how to properly and safely handle these high-powered vehicles on a track.

“GingerMan Raceway is an ideal track to build the fundamentals of high-performance driving,” said Brad Pines, CGI Motorsports instructor.

Lesson highlights included: Look ahead (plan for what’s ahead, don’t be reactive); do one thing at a time (only brake, or turn, or accelerate to ensure maximum grip); be smooth (the smoother the input, the greater the tire grip); hands should always stay at 9 and 3 o’clock; use landmarks to guide the path; master weight transfer (every control input changes balance); be aware of surroundings (always scan mirrors); increase corner speed gradually; and leave a margin of safety (don’t compound a driver error by making it worse).

In between the morning and afternoon training sessions, Dodge Charger Brand Manager Ashton Muñoz discussed the new 2020 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody, which was on display throughout the day.

“For 2020, we are literally expanding our high-performance Charger models, adding a Widebody exterior to America’s only four-door muscle car,” said Muñoz. “The Charger’s successful formula is in part due to its many personalities; there’s really no other car like it.”

MAMA members will be able to put their newly acquired skills to use at MAMA’s annual Fall Rally on Oct. 2. Held at the Autobahn Country Club in Joliet, Illinois, the 2019 MAMA Fall Rally will offer track time, street drives and an off-road course, sponsored by Jeep.

Track driving instructional videos by CGI Motorsports can be found here.

For more information on the Midwest Automotive Media Association, please visit www.mamaonline.org.

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About the Midwest Automotive Media Association

Founded in 1991 and now in its 28^th year, the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) comprises more than 250 automotive journalists and industry professionals from approximately 23 states and the District of Columbia. Though based in the Chicago area, MAMA welcomes members from all parts of the country. The organization’s primary purpose is to provide a forum for newsworthy people, current issues and new products in the auto industry.

Hyundai hosted MAMA’s July meeting with a special program to introduce the 2020 Palisade, the brand’s new flagship SUV, to media members. The morning kicked off at Hyundai’s regional headquarters in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, with a breakfast and presentation led by Mike O’Brien, vice president, product, corporate and digital planning, and Trevor Lai, manager, product planning for Hyundai. Following the presentation, 25 media members were able to test drive the Palisade via a road trip to Starved Rock State Park, a scenic wilderness area located in LaSalle County, about an hour and a half drive from Hyundai’s offices. Prior to the drive, O’Brien and Lai highlighted the features they’re confident will set the Palisade apart from its competitors in the already crowded 3-row midsize SUV segment.

The Palisade name references a line of high cliffs, and also signifies the strength of a fortress—and the Palisade’s bold exterior and strong profile are in keeping with its moniker. The standard second-row bench seat provides eight-passenger seating, but second-row captain’s chairs are also available for seven-passenger capacity and easier access to the third row. The color palate choices are subtle and reserved, which underscores the Palisade’s upscale positioning. The long wheelbase offers good ride quality, and 20-inch wheels give the midsize SUV a planted stance.

The Palisade’s interior has a high-end look; the top-line Limited model includes luxury features such as quilted Nappa leather seats, ambient lighting, Harmon Kardon premium audio system, and a surround-view monitor. Cargo space abounds; there’s 18 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seats, growing to 86.4 cu. ft. with the second- and third-row seats folded. The Palisade also offers loads of convenience features, including one-touch third-row access (where the second-row seat folds and slides with a press of a button when entering or exiting the vehicle) and available power-folding third-row seats.

In terms of tech, the Palisade features an all-new digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch widescreen navigation system, available “driver talk” in-car intercom (to broadcast the driver’s voice through the rear speakers) and a “quiet mode” feature (which mutes the speakers in the back so parents can listen to music/podcasts while kids sleep, for example).

Hyundai’s SmartSense safety technology also comes standard on every Palisade, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, high beam assist, driver attention warning, safe exit assist, highway drive assist, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, ultrasonic rear occupant alert and lane following assist.

The Palisade comes in three trim levels, with the SE starting at $31,550, the SEL at $33,500, and the Limited at $44,700.

Please save the date for MAMA’s August meeting with the Steel Market Development Institute (SMDI): Wednesday, August 14. SMDI will give attendees a first-hand glimpse of what a ride in an autonomous vehicle may look and feel like through a virtual reality experience. Members may register here.

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin – May 29 – The Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) hosted its annual Spring Rally last week at Road America, one of the world’s premier road racing tracks. Over the course of two days, nearly 100 media members from across the country had the opportunity to put nearly 80 vehicles through their paces in a variety of driving opportunities, including on-track, street, off-road and autocross.

Automakers from 25 different brands selected the 2019 MAMA Spring Rally to showcase their latest cars, trucks, SUVs and CUVs to top-tier automotive journalists. A handful of the attending manufacturers also provided detailed overviews of their latest products.

Photo Credit: Cars.com

Lexus officially opened the MAMA Spring Rally with a breakfast presentation featuring the 2020 Lexus RC lineup—particularly the high-performance RC F model. Bob Gleich, senior product trainer for Lexus, said the 2020 RC F is lighter and more capable than before. He also reiterated that the F is highly capable on the track as the vehicle relies on a variety of technologies to help make its performance accessible to drivers of varying skill levels.

Refreshed and redefined for 2020, the RC F receives enhanced performance (with weight reduction) and an updated, aggressive design. Taking advantage of the reduced weight, RC F engineers also retuned the chassis to give the car a more responsive feel. Under the hood is a 5.0-liter V8 engine that puts out 472 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft. of torque.

Photo Credit: Cars.com

The RC F also comes in a Track Edition, a limited production model intended for hardcore enthusiasts. Both the 2020 Lexus RC F and the RC F Track Edition are in production and will be available at dealerships shortly. Pricing for the 2020 RC F starts at $64,750, and the Track Edition starts at $96,650.  

Photo Credit: Cars.com

Following a morning of track touring laps and street drive evaluations, Nissan’s Karen Long discussed the brand’s commitment to sedans, the overall state of the sedan market and the company’s latest reveal, the 2020 Nissan Versa.

Despite the growing SUV and crossover market, a recent survey – conducted by third-party research firm Edelman Intelligence – found that 78 percent of respondents would consider purchasing a sedan. Moreover, U.S. sedan owners are just as satisfied with their cars as non-sedan owners.

Long discussed the continued importance of the sedan market, highlighting the 2020 Nissan Versa, the brand’s smallest and most affordable sedan. The 2020 Versa embodies the Nissan Intelligent Mobility philosophy; it’s fully equipped with safety and connectivity features such as standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear automatic braking, and available intelligent cruise control, which can bring the vehicle to a complete stop if needed.

Inside, drivers can stay fully connected with seamless smartphone integration and a tablet-like 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display. Heated front seats and customizable gauges (such as music playlists to fuel economy history) are also a bonus.

“The MAMA Spring Rally was a great event for Nissan to showcase the all-new 2020 Versa and speak about our commitment to the sedan market,” said Karen Long, senior manager sedans, CMM, Nissan North America. “We’re thankful to have had the opportunity to engage with such a great and influential crowd and to have them drive some of our latest vehicles.”

The 2020 Versa will arrive at dealerships later this summer. Pricing has yet to be announced but Nissan said it will be priced competitive in the segment. 

Quite literally shifting gears, Hyundai put its Veloster N in the spotlight by bringing five models for journalists to drive on track, on street and in the autocross. Mike O’Brien wrapped up the first full Rally day with a dinner presentation on the Veloster N, highlighting the three key pillars of the vehicle’s “fun-to-drive” theme: Corner Rascal (with precise control through corners); Race Track Capability; and Everyday Sports Car (easy to control from urban commutes to track driving).

The “N” in its name both represents Namyang, Korea (where Hyundai’s engineering center is based and where the vehicle was born), as well as Germany’s Nürburgring, one of the longest, most tradition-steeped, challenging and busiest race tracks in the world (where the vehicle was honed). Also of note, the letter “N” represents a chicane. Built for the track, the Veloster N features a 275-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, N corner-carving differential, electronically controlled suspension, N “grin control” drive modes for precision and control, and a variable exhaust system.

Photo Credit: Cars.com

Racing attributes aside, the Veloster N offers the following as standard equipment: 8-inch audio display, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, premium audio, LED headlights and taillights, Hyundai’s Blue Link Connected Car Service, proximity key with push button start, and automatic temperature control.

“The Veloster N is another example of Hyundai’s capabilities, offering a comprehensive degree of exterior and interior features and thrilling dynamics in an exciting sports car,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president, product, corporate and digital planning, Hyundai. “The Veloster N represents Hyundai’s highest performance vehicle ever for the U.S. market. We were thrilled to share our fun-to-drive Veloster N at the Midwest Automotive Media Association's Spring Rally.”

The Veloster N begins at $26,900; the available Performance Package bumps the starting price to $29,000.

Volkswagen kicked off the second day of the 2019 MAMA Spring Rally with a presentation and overview of the Jetta GLI, which was also available for evaluations on the street, the track, and the autocross.

New for the 2019 model year, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI is a sedan with the heart and soul of the Golf GTI. Now featuring a 228-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a sophisticated limited-slip differential, and front brakes from the Golf R, the GLI is all new and presents a great value in the sport-sedan segment, according to VW.

“I’m really pleased that we had the chance to present the all-new 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI to our friends at MAMA,” said Mark Gillies, senior manager, product and technology communications, Volkswagen of America. “The Spring Rally is a highlight of the media association year and I’m delighted that MAMA members were able to experience the vehicle at Road America, one of my favorite tracks on the planet.”

The 2019 Jetta GLI begins at $25,995 – $1,000 more for the 35^th anniversary edition – and is currently on sale.

Following an action-packed morning of off-road, autocross, and street driving, Mopar, the service, parts, and customer-care brand of FCA, hosted the final event and presentation of the MAMA Spring Rally. Kim Mathers, head of accessories and performance parts, Mopar, walked attendees through the brand’s evolution over 80-plus years in serving customers throughout the ownership experience.

Photo Credit: Cars.com

Mathers highlighted the brand’s emphasis on offering a large menu of accessories right at launch for new vehicles, such as the all-new 2020 Jeep Gladiator and 2019 Ram 1500.

“The MAMA event is a great opportunity to share the Mopar brand’s mission with a large group of key journalists and media outlets,” said Mathers. “We were able to put journalists behind the wheel and let them experience a Ram 1500 Big Horn loaded with Mopar accessories and also share with them a behind-the-scenes video of a Mopar Custom Shop to demonstrate how we can accessorize vehicles even before they reach the dealership. The event was a great opportunity to interact with media and build relationships.”

Finalists for MAMA’s annual Family Vehicle of the Year (FVOTY) and Luxury Family Vehicle of the Year (LFVOTY) Awards were also announced. During the event, journalists had the opportunity to evaluate 13 MAMA Family Vehicle of the Year contenders and six MAMA Luxury Family Vehicle of the Year contenders. Out of these vehicles, 70 MAMA journalists cast their votes and selected the following finalists.

FVOTY Finalists:

• 2020 Jeep Gladiator
• 2020 Kia Telluride
• 2019 Honda Passport
• 2019 Mazda3

LFVOTY Finalists:

• 2019 BMW X7
• 2019 Lincoln Nautilus
• 2019 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLS 53 Coupe

To qualify for the awards, the vehicle must have four doors and be new or significantly updated within a year of the Spring Rally. These vehicles will join another round of finalists that will be selected during the 2019 MAMA Fall Rally this October. A final round of online voting will then take place to determine the overall winner in each category, both of which will be announced during the MAMA breakfast that opens the 2020 Chicago Auto Show Media Preview in February. 

“MAMA developed the Family Vehicle and Luxury Family Vehicle of the Year Awards to help car-shopping families make a wise decision when they’re ready for a new vehicle, and who better to evaluate these vehicles than the high-caliber group of automotive journalists who attend our rallies?” said Damon Bell, MAMA president. “We look forward to sharing the final results during the 2020 Chicago Auto Show.”

The MAMA Spring Rally also served as a venue for the presentation of the 2019 Chicago Auto Show’s Best of Show Awards. In voting conducted over the 10-day public run of the Chicago Auto Show, consumer voters selected their favorites in five categories. Mark Bilek, senior director of communications and technology for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, which produces the Chicago Auto Show, was on hand to distribute the awards to attending automakers. Jordan Wasylyk of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles accepted Jeep’s awards for Best Exhibit and for the 2020 Gladiator, which was voted Best All-New Production Vehicle. Bob Gleich of Lexus accepted the Best Concept Vehicle award for the Lexus LC Convertible. The 2019 Audi e-tron was also voted Best Green Vehicle and the 2019 Bugatti Chiron was selected the “Vehicle I’d mist like to have in my driveway.”

For more information on the Midwest Automotive Media Association, please visit www.mamaonline.org.

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About the Midwest Automotive Media Association

Founded in 1991 and now in its 28^th year, the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) comprises more than 250 automotive journalists and industry professionals from approximately 23 states and the District of Columbia. Though based in the Chicago area, MAMA welcomes members from all parts of the country. The organization’s primary purpose is to provide a forum for newsworthy people, current issues and new products in the auto industry.

Honda’s objective was two-fold during the last MAMA monthly meeting: to present the all-new Passport to journalists and share an industry perspective on the future of sedans, with the help and research backed by industry analyst Michelle Krebs.

Krebs predicts that sedans will see a 6 percent dip of market share in a few years (current sedan market share is 31 percent). That said, however, Krebs noted the importance of sedans because the majority of first-time new vehicle buyers purchase a car due to the affordability factor. In fact, sedan purchases jump to 70 percent with Gen Z buyers (compared to 55 percent of total buyers). Bottom line, according to Cox Automotive data, midsize and compact car segments remain in the top five spots for shopping and sales.

While sedans aren’t going anywhere any time soon, SUVs and crossovers continue to gain traction. Honda brought in the Passport’s Chief Designer Lara Harrington to discuss the brand’s newest crossover. Honda saw the opportunity to add to its crossover portfolio, as the Passport was designed to close the gap between Honda’s larger, three-row Pilot and its compact-size CR-V.

Appropriately named, the Passport aims to attract the adventure-seeker who may be looking for both a family vehicle yet one that offers off-road driving performance and towing capability. Harrington described the Passport’s exterior as “rugged yet modern,” noting its standard 20-inch wheels, an “aggressive” black grille and a more athletic appearance compared to the Pilot.

On the inside, the Passport continues to cater to its adventure-seeker audience by offering a large “basement” cargo area designed for storing dirty athletic gear or keeping purses and other valuables hidden. Its engine is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 280 horsepower and 262 lb.-ft. of torque.

The Passport comes fully-equipped with Honda’s latest technology and safety features including its suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies. All trim levels come with a multi-angle rearview camera system, while EX-L, Touring and Elite models come with Honda's blind spot information system. Also available, for an upgrade, is Apply CarPlay and Android Auto integration, an 8-inch infotainment display and wireless phone charging.

Pricing begins at $31,900 for the Sport trim and rises to $43,600 for the Elite model.

Honda plans to bring both the 2019 Passport and 2019 Civic to the MAMA Spring Rally at Road America next week for more than 100 journalists to test drive. 

Brandon Girmus, Jeep Gladiator brand manager, presented the all-new open-air Jeep Gladiator to MAMA members earlier this week. Building on the success of its iconic Wrangler, Jeep recently introduced the all-new 2020 Gladiator – what Jeep refers to as the “most capable midsize truck ever.”

The Gladiator has been in the works for years and is a concept Jeep fans and enthusiasts have been persistently requesting over the past two decades. While the Gladiator certainly builds upon the Wrangler’s success, the Gladiator is “100 percent truck and 100 percent Jeep,” according Girmus. In other words, Jeep took the best attributes of the Jeep products – open-air freedom, off-road capability and iconic design – and added real truck capabilities including towing (up to 7,650 lbs.) and payload (up to 1,600 lbs.). 

The exterior design is authentic to the Jeep brand, including the iconic seven-slot grille, round headlamps and square taillights. The design team widened the grille openings to provide additional air intake to help with the truck’s increased towing capacity. When it comes to the removable tops, like the Wrangler, there are two options: a removable soft top or a three-piece hardtop.

The interior design combines authentic styling, versatility and comfort. Exclusive to Gladiator, the rear seats and can be locked in place to provide secure storage. Additionally, the rear seat cushions can fold into “stadium” position to expose an open storage bin – utilizing the space under the seat. For the adventure-seeking owner, an optional lockable bin offers convenient secure storage space when the top or doors are removed.

Advanced technology and safety features are also packed into the Gladiator. A 7.0- or an available 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system allows the driver to configure information in more than 100 ways including media (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration), tire pressure gauge, tire-fill alert or digital speed readout. A removable Bluetooth wireless speaker is available so drivers and their friends can listen to their favorite music even while outside of the vehicle. Also, exclusive to Rubicon models, is a forward-facing off-road camera that allows the driver to better see and navigate trail obstructions.

Available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross path detection, forward-facing off-road camera, standard ParkView rear backup camera, adaptive cruise control and electronic stability control.

Under the hood is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with engine stop-start. A 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 option will be available in 2020. Both engines will be available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or 8-speed automatic transmission. Jeep’s 2-speed 4WD transfer case is also standard. Front and rear axles are Dana 44s and the Rubicon model is available with the Wrangler’s trick electronic unlocking sway bar. 

“Gladiator is the only open-air pickup on the market,” said Girmus. “There’s no other truck out there where you can take off the top and take off the doors.”

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator comes in the following trim configurations: Sport, Sport S, Overland and Rubicon. The all-new pickup will arrive at dealerships this spring.

Chicago, Illinois (Feb. 7, 2019) – The Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) announced today at the Chicago Auto Show that the 2019 Subaru Ascent has been named the winner of its ninth annual Family Vehicle of the Year award, and the 2019 Volvo XC40 has been named the inaugural winner of the Luxury Family Vehicle of the Year award.

MAMA is a nonprofit group of automotive journalists and public relations professionals, and it developed the awards to help car-shopping families make a wise decision when they’re ready for a new vehicle.

“Choosing a family vehicle is an important decision. Whether it’s a premium-brand or mainstream model, it should be versatile, reliable, efficient, and reasonably priced. MAMA members pooled their expertise and experience to select the best family vehicles from an outstanding group of new and significantly refreshed models, and the Subaru Ascent and Volvo XC40 came out on top,” said MAMA award coordinator Tim Healey.

To qualify for the award, vehicles had to have four doors, appear at one of MAMA’s two annual rallies, and be new or significantly updated within a year of the 2018 Spring Rally, which took place in May 2018. The MAMA Spring and Fall Rallies feature roughly 100 manufacturer vehicles for journalists to drive and evaluate.

Voting took place at both rallies, and the field of contenders was narrowed down to 11 finalists in the mainstream category: the Buick Regal TourX, Ford Expedition, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Kona, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda6, Nissan Altima, Ram 1500, Subaru Ascent, Subaru Forester, and Volkswagen Jetta. There were six finalists in the luxury category: the Acura RDX, Kia Stinger, Land Rover Range Rover Velar, Lexus ES, Maserati Levante, and Volvo XC40.

In each round of voting, three points were awarded for a first-place vote, two points were given for a second-place vote and third-place votes were valued at one point each.

MAMA members then voted in one final round, and 91 automotive journalists participated. The 2019 Subaru Ascent was selected as Family Vehicle of the Year with 100 points, ahead of the 2018 Ford Expedition, which garnered 74 points. The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe placed third with 61 points.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 was crowned Luxury Family Vehicle of the Year with 151 points, edging out the 2019 Acura RDX, which netted 133 points. The 2019 Kia Stinger rounded out the top three with 82 points.

Voting for the 2020 Family Vehicle of the Year awards will begin at the 2019 MAMA Spring Rally, which is scheduled for May 22-23 at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. The 2019 MAMA Fall Rally is tentatively scheduled for October 2.

For more information about the Midwest Automotive Media Association, please visit www.mamaonline.org. 

About the Midwest Automotive Media Association

Founded in 1991, and now in its 28^th year, the Midwest Automotive Media Association comprises 261 automotive journalists and public relations professionals from 23 states and the District of Columbia. Though based in the Chicago area, MAMA welcomes members from all parts of the country. The organization’s primary purpose is to provide a forum for newsworthy people, current issues, and new products in the auto industry.

On January 30, 2017, longtime Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) member Jim Mateja lost his battle with cancer. An industry heavyweight, Jim’s powerful media reach and accessible reviews made him one of the most influential auto writers of his era.

Jim was also a dedicated MAMA member, playing an active role in the organization he helped create. As MAMA’s first president, Jim charted the course for a group that now boasts more than 260 members and hosts two of the finest annual automotive media events in the country.

Jim’s dedication to journalistic integrity; his potent, plain-language reviews; and his friendly, unguarded nature contributed to his legend and made him a welcome and respected fixture at MAMA events. Likewise, his counsel and support were always sought after and appreciated by subsequent MAMA leaders.

Honoring Jim

To honor Jim’s legacy, and to fully acknowledge his contributions to our industry, MAMA is partnering with the Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism to establish a scholarship in his name.

The James L. Mateja Memorial Scholarship

Once fully funded, the James L. Mateja Memorial Scholarship will provide an annual sum of at least $4,000 to a promising journalism student as selected by Medill faculty. A new recipient will be selected every year.

Funding the Legacy

To fund the scholarship, MAMA must raise at least $100,000, contributed directly to Northwestern University’s 501 (c)(3) scholarship charity. This is the smallest amount of money the university will manage as part of a legacy program. While MAMA intends to make a significant contribution to the scholarship, we wanted to reach out to automotive manufacturers, as well as partner organizations and individual members, to be a part of this tribute to Jim.

Our goal is to have the scholarship fully funded by June 30, 2018, so that we can award the first scholarship in September 2018.

About the Scholarship

Once funded, the James L. Mateja Memorial Scholarship will be managed by Northwestern University with no further input from MAMA—though additional contributions to the fund are always accepted. Most importantly, the name of the scholarship will never change.

How to Contribute

Whether you are representing an automaker, an organization or simply yourself, we welcome any contributions that will be made to honor our founding president. All contributions are tax-deductible and go directly to Northwestern University.

1)  To donate via Northwestern's secure online portal, please click here. 

2)  If you'd like to send a check, please make the check payable to Northwestern University and mail it to the following address (VERY IMPORTANT: indicate in the memo field or an enclosure that the gift is for the James L. Mateja Memorial Scholarship): 

Julie Frahar

Alumni Relations and Development

Northwestern University 

1201 Davis St. 

Evanston, IL 60201 

If you have additional questions, please contact the current MAMA President, Jill Ciminillo, at president@mamaonline.org.

The Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA), an organization comprised of automotive journalists and related industry professionals, elected its 2019 board of directors during its annual business meeting.

Damon Bell, formerly senior vice president, transitions to the role of MAMA president. Matt Avery, formerly vice president, membership, was elected to senior vice president and Jennifer Newman is newly elected to the MAMA board to carry out the role of vice president, membership, for a two-year term.

Continuing to carry out second-year terms are Larry Nutson as the association’s treasurer and Kelley Enright as secretary. Jennifer Morand is also carrying out a second-year term under the title of communications director, formerly web director, to more accurately align with her association responsibilities. 

Jill Ciminillo, who served a two-year term as MAMA president from 2017-2018, will transition into the role of president emeritus.

During the annual business meeting it was reported that the association currently maintains a membership of 261 automotive journalists and industry professionals serving in the automotive industry or related fields.

It was also announced that the very first recipient of the James L. Mateja Memorial Scholarship, Benjamin Winck, will be recognized during the MAMA opening breakfast to the 2019 Chicago Auto Show on Thursday, Feb. 7. In 2017, longtime automotive journalist and MAMA founding president Jim Mateja lost his battle with cancer. To honor Mateja’s legacy, MAMA partnered with the Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism to establish a scholarship in his name.

Also, during the Chicago Auto Show breakfast, MAMA will announce its 2019 Family Vehicle of the Year Award and Luxury Family Vehicle of the Year Award recipients. The Ford Expedition, Hyundai Santa Fe and Subaru Ascent are the finalists for the Family Vehicle of the Year Award, and the Acura RDX, Kia Stinger and Volvo XC40 are the finalists for the luxury category. Following the award presentations, Kia Motors America will present a program.

For more information on the Midwest Automotive Media Association and upcoming events, visit www.mamaonline.org.