Charleston motorists rally for education; N.Y. show unveils hot new models

In a welcome departure from sudden unintended acceleration problems, today’s topics are:

• Drivers, Start Your Engines!

• Highlights of the New York Auto Show.

Yes, start your engines for the return of the Road Rally, sponsored by the LifeManagement Center in Charleston.

In an interview, Mary Beth Dacy, executive director of the center, said, “The Road Rally is a unique event that offers entertainment for car enthusiasts (that’s us), treasure hunters and competitors.”

She further explained, “This un-timed scavenger hunt-styled motor sport involves a driver and navigator that are given instructions and clues to follow a scenic course, marked by checkpoints in downtown Charleston and surrounding areas.”

Dacy concluded, “The Road Rally is a great way to rediscover Charleston’s scenic splendor while supporting the work of the LifeManagement Center. Whether you come for the Rally, the car, the party or the cause, the Road Rally offers fun for all.”

For newcomers to the area, the center has worked with students and parents while cooperating with nine schools in the Charleston area. It is amazing to hear how many children cannot even read textbooks. That’s where LifeManagement comes in, assisting students in the basics.

LifeManagement is providing help the old-fashioned way — with local, compassionate professionals and a raft of dedicated volunteers.

Check-in for the Road Rally is at the John M.J. Holliday Center at The Citadel, 69 Hagood Ave. The time is 3 p.m. on April 17 — two weeks from today.

At the conclusion of the rally, which takes a couple of hours, a Finish Line Party takes place with music and a silent auction. Cost of the event is $75. Remember the CAUSE makes it all so worthwhile. For more information, please call (843) 852-5705.

Revving up Big Apple

The other exciting event going on right now is the New York Auto Show, the nation’s longest running event of its kind. Here are some of the models being featured:

FORD FIESTA. According to the company, “It has 15 class-exclusive technologies and is projected to deliver highway fuel economy of 40 miles per gallon.” The 2011 Fiesta will be available in four- and five-door styles.

BMW 5. The sixth-generation sedan features some of the most advanced drive train and suspension technologies. The top of the range BMWi comes with an eight-cylinder engine boasting 407 horsepower. All of the new 5-series will have the new eight-speed automatic transmission.

2011 BUICK REGAL. It is said to be designed to deliver a driving experience that rivals the best import sports sedans. The CXL version will be powered by a 182 hp Ecotec engine and a 220 hp turbocharged engine. A six-speed manual transmission will be available a bit later, after introduction this fall.

NISSAN JUKE. This model was conceived to inject some masculinity into the small car market. The lower portion of the Juke is pure SUV, with chunky wheels, wide tires, extended ground clearance and a robust stance. The top is sports car, with slim side glass graphics and a coupe-style falling roofline.

LINCOLN MKX. Powered by a new 305 hp V-6 engine, the dramatic refreshening of the 2011 MKX extends to all areas of the vehicle. With its new split-wing grille, the luxury crossover features the first application of industry-exclusive MyLincoln Touch, which creates a whole new way for customers to interact with digital and vehicle technology.

HONDA CR-X. The company is introducing sleek styling and sporty handling to the hybrid segment. Also, the CR-X introduces a new three-mode drive system that allows the driver to select from Sport, Econ (Economy) and Normal modes. It is expected to achieve 36 miles per gallon city and 38 mpg highway.

CADILLAC CTS-V. This high-performance coupe packs a 556 hp supercharged V-8 motor. To keep power in check, the CTS-V Coupe is also equipped with GM’s Magnetic Ride-Control and racing-bred Brembo brakes.

PORSCHE CAYENNE. It is “completely redesigned: lighter, more agile, with more power, increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact,” the company reports. The Cayenne S Hybrid model uses a parallel full hybrid drive train, which combines the sporting performance of an eight-cylinder with the economy of a six-cylinder and a unique “sailing mode” for even lower fuel consumption.

KIA SPORTAGE. The all-new model represents a dramatic shift in design. Longer, lower and wider than the previous model, it offers more space for people and cargo with improved ride quality, thanks to a longer wheelbase.

Dr. George G. Spaulding is a retired General Motors executive and distinguished executive-in-residence emeritus at the School of Business at the College of Charleston. He can be reached at 2 Wharfside St. 2A Charleston, S.C., 29401.