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Jeep did a one-and-a-half gainer under the hood, increasing the Cherokee's powertrain choices. To pump up the engine lineup, Jeep didn't grab any old powerplant off the FCA shelf. Nope. It created an all-new turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. Jeep's engine gurus gave it the guts to deliver 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of acceleration-making torque, as well as start-stop to increase fuel economy. And, when properly equipped, Cherokees with the 2.0-liter can tow up to 4,000 pounds, yet scamper to 60 miles per hour from a standstill in seven seconds by Jeep's count! Making encore performances are the 180-hp 2.4-liter Tigershark 4-cylinder and the 271-hp 3.2-liter V6 engines. All three engines use the same 9-speed automatic transmission to turn the wheels. Because of powertrain tweaks here and there, as well as the 2019 model being 150 pounds trimmer, the government has yet to release miles per gallon estimates for any of the engines. Jeep expects the 2.4-liter to provide 30 mpg on the highway, while the 3.2-liter should deliver a class V6 best of 29 mpg hwy. We did some rock crawling in California that would have positively embarrassed many of the Cherokee's competitors. Traversing the off-road course at the media event required childlike trust in the spotters as we walked our Cherokee over hills of jagged rocks, often seeing nothing more than the top inch or two of the spotter's index fingers pointing left or right as we stared at the sky through the windshield. For this sort of X Games adventure, Jeep offers its Active Drive Lock 4x4 system with its locking rear differential. It includes a Power Transfer Unit (PTU) with torque management and low range. 4-Low locks the front and rear driveshafts. Two more 4-wheel-drive packages round out the off-roading systems. Active Drive I is a transparent automatic all-wheel-drive system that switches in and out of 4WD as needed without driver input. Active Drive II has all the features of Active Drive Lock, but without the rear differential locker. It also offers a neutral mode for towing the Cherokee behind an RV. All three 4WD systems include Jeep's Selec-Terrain traction control with settings for Auto, Snow, Sport, Sand/Mud and Rock. It also has Selec-Speed Control, which is something like cruise control for going up and down hills. Geek Patrol What would a new, redesigned or refreshed vehicle be without ginning up more gizmos for connectivity and safety? When the 2019 Cherokee goes on sale this spring, it will feature the latest fourth-generation Uconnect infotainment system. Available with either a 7- or 8.4-in touchscreen, it will include a 12-volt power outlet, auxiliary audio input jack and USB port, in addition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Features come and go as you work your way through the trim levels, but available goodies include satellite radio, hands-free calling and texting, a navigation system and connected services for remotely locking/unlocking and remotely starting the vehicle with a smartphone app, emergency-first responders contact and other features. Every Cherokee comes with a rearview camera. Available driver-assist/safety technologies include adaptive cruise control, ParkSense, parallel/perpendicular park assist, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning with braking, blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Casting Call Base pricing, including the destination fee, begins at $25,190 for the front-wheel-drive Latitude and peaks out at $37,470 for the Overland. In between are the Latitude Plus ($25,190), the Limited ($31,570) and the off-road-dedicated Trailhawk, only offered with 4WD ($34,515). Roughly 60 percent of Cherokee sales will be 4WD. Adding 4WD to all grades except Trailhawk will increase the bottom line by $1,500. The Big Finish There's no question that the 2019 Jeep Cherokee is still king of the off-road hill among its peers. Whether its freshening earns it a bigger slice of the segment sales pie remains to be seen, but it is an improved vehicle through the effort. It certainly offers more engine and 4WD choices than its competition. In every other respect, it can go toe to toe with the segment leaders. To gain access to this information, Autotrader attended an event sponsored by the vehicle's manufacturer.

South Africa has declared the drought which has seen Cape Town hurtling towards "Day Zero" a national disaster. The government made the announcement after reassessing the "magnitude and severity" of the three-year drought. It has badly affected three of the country's nine provinces. The decision came as Cape Town announced its water saving measures, which require each citizen to use less than 50 litres a day, had successfully pushed back "Day Zero" to 4 June. Drought-hit Cape Town rejoices at rainfall Life in Cape Town: 'My wife doesn't shower any more' Africa Live: More on this and other stories Just a matter of weeks ago, the date that Cape Town's taps were predicted to run dry was 12 April. Mmusi Maimane, leader of South Africa's Democratic Alliance (DA), which runs both the city of Cape Town and Western Cape province, tweeted:

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is a premium subcompact SUV. In theory. In practice, it's really more of a high-riding hatchback, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. This is the smallest -- and therefore the least expensive -- crossover from Mercedes-Benz. As well as offering style and luxury in a modestly sized and (relatively) affordable package, the GLA comes with gutsy yet fuel-efficient turbocharged engines. It provides flexibility with its folding rear seats, then adds a touch of class with a standard powered tailgate. It's also rewarding to drive, particularly in GLA 45 AMG form, and its 4Matic all-wheel-drive system makes it a solid choice for those who live in the snowbelt. The GLA is based on the same platform as the CLA-Class sedan. What's New for 2018? Even though it seems as if the GLA has only been around for a year or two, it's already received a styling update at the nose and tail. The instrument cluster has also been redesigned, while the air conditioning vent rings are more "strongly accentuated" (according to the company). A rearview camera becomes standard, along with a new high-resolution 8-inch display. LED headlights have joined the options list, plus a hands-free feature for the powered tailgate. And there are a few cosmetic changes. What We Like Fun drive; decent fuel economy; easy to park; upscale ambiance What We Don't Limited cargo capacity; some subpar cabin materials; firm ride; relatively noisy for a Benz How Much? $34,395-$51,595 Fuel Economy The GLA 250 uses front-wheel drive and a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates fuel consumption at 24 miles per gallon in the city, 33 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg in combined driving. The GLA 250 4Matic uses the same engine, but adds all-wheel drive. Fuel consumption is still respectable, at 23 mpg city/31 mpg hwy/26 mpg combined. The Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 also has a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, but this one develops 375 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. It has all-wheel drive as standard. Fuel consumption is 22 mpg city/28 mpg hwy/25 mpg combined. All models have a 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission (it works just like an automatic), with the GLA 45 AMG getting a performance-tuned version with quicker shifts. Standard Features & Options The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class comes in GLA 250, GLA 250 4Matic and 2018 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 versions. The GLA 250 ($34,395) comes standard with 18-in alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, a powered tailgate, chrome roof rails, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, premium vinyl upholstery, power adjustable front seats with driver's-side memory settings, a rearview camera, Adaptive Brake (with hill-start assist and automatic brake drying), the Comand infotainment system with an 8-in display, Bluetooth (for phone and audio) and an 8-speaker audio system with HD Radio and a USB port. The GLA 250 4Matic ($36,395) has equipment similar to the GLA 250, but adds all-wheel drive, an off-road drive mode, an off-road display and downhill speed regulation. Options include 19-in wheels, upgraded front brakes, an exterior aero kit, LED headlights and taillights, self-dimming side mirrors, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, satellite radio, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon Surround Sound system, ambient cabin lighting, hands-free tailgate operation, voice controls, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, a self-parking system, leather upholstery, sport front seats and a premium vinyl dashboard trim. The Convenience package comes with a garage door opener, auto-dimming mirrors and a compass. The 2018 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 ($51,595) occupies a different class in performance terms, adding the stronger engine, 19-in wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, sport steering, a sport exhaust, performance brakes, LED lighting and exterior styling enhancements. It can also be specced with Recaro sport seats, a rear spoiler and 20-in wheels. The Dynamic Plus package adds a limited-slip front differential, an adjustable suspension and race mode, while raising top speed to 167 mph. Maximum cargo capacity is 41.8 cu ft. with the rear seats flipped down. Not bad for a hatchback, but not great for a small crossover. Safety All GLA-Class models come standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control and eight airbags (front, front side, front knee and full-length side curtain). Rear side airbags are optional. Collision Prevention Assist Plus -- a forward-collision mitigation system that includes automatic braking if an impact is imminent -- is standard. The Driver Assistance package adds adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring and lane-keeping assistance. Although the GLA-Class hasn't yet been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), it has performed exceptionally well in European tests. Behind the Wheel Overall, the GLA has a premium air, but closer inspection reveals some rather uncharacteristic hard plastics on the dashboard, door panels and center console. Everything seems to be put together tightly, though. Cheaper materials make sense, considering the GLA's comparatively low price. This is an opportunity to get into a Mercedes-Benz crossover for around the same cost as a Volkswagen, so a lot of shoppers will probably be willing to forgive a few below-par surfaces. They should also be able to live with the limited interior space. The front seats offer pleasantly firm support and ample adjustability, but rear legroom depends on who's sitting up front. If the driver has long legs, an adult passenger behind is going to be cramped. With shorter folks up front, the back seat is fine for adults. The driving experience is sharp and eager. The base 208-hp engine has plenty of punch, while the quick steering and firm suspension provide athletic handling in tight corners. On the flip side, the suspension isn't so compliant on rough roads. Anyone expecting a typical Mercedes-Benz ride might be disappointed. Noise levels at speed are also higher than the luxury-class norm. The GLA 45 brings sports-car acceleration and more entertaining handling, but comes at a steep price. For most drivers, the GLA 250 will be more than adequate. Other Cars to Consider 2018 Audi Q3 -- The Q3 is a chief rival, offering similar turbocharged power and all-wheel-drive traction. It has the edge in interior quality, but the GLA is more fun. 2018 BMW X1 -- Roomier than the GLA and has superb driving talents. 2018 Lexus NX 300 -- Enjoys the usual Lexus build quality and excellent equipment. 2018 Volkswagen Golf R -- Comes with nearly 300 hp and all-wheel drive. A cheaper alternative to a GLA 45 that's still upscale and seriously quick. Used BMW X3 -- More space and a highlight of its class. Check out a certified pre-owned (CPO) example with a reassuring warranty. Autotrader's Advice The straight-ahead GLA 250 is a well-rounded, well-equipped vehicle. When attacking the options list, put the safety features at the top.

North Korea's leader has called for a "further livening up" of the "warm climate of reconciliation" with the South created by the Winter Olympics. Kim Jong-un, whose nuclear bomb and missile tests have stoked international tension, praised the South for hosting his state at the games in Pyeongchang. Kim's apparent Games charm offensive was led by his sister Kim Yo-jong. South Korean President President Moon Jae-in has meanwhile said the US is open to talking with the North. He did not elaborate and may have been referring to a remark by US Vice-President Mike Pence on his flight back to Washington from the Games. "If you want to talk, we'll talk," Mr Pence was quoted as saying by the Washington Post. While the North's attendance at the Games has been seen as marking a major warming in relations, there have also been concerns that it has allowed it to win a propaganda victory. What a 'casual' photo tells us about N Korea Kim's sister and North Korea's secret weapon North Korean cheerleaders mesmerise crowds What else did Mr Kim say? He thanked the South for "specially prioritising" the North's attendance at the Games, North Korean state news agency KCNA reports. He also gave "important instructions" on how to "liven up" the "warm climate of reconciliation and dialogue". A picture released by the agency shows Mr Kim flanked by his sister and the North's ceremonial head of state, Kim Yong-nam, both linking arms with him. How big a propaganda coup has the North scored? Ms Kim and Mr Kim Yong-nam made up the most senior delegation from the North to visit the South since the Korean War in the 1950s. The two states have never signed a peace treaty and are in a constant state of mutual distrust. On Saturday, Ms Kim handed over a letter from her brother to President Moon, inviting him to visit Pyongyang. If the summit goes ahead, it will be the first meeting in more than a decade between Korean leaders. North Korea got what it wanted from the Winter Olympics A history of North Korea at the Olympics Winter Olympics: The political background explained Ms Kim's appearance at the Games has been widely criticised, as she is on a US sanctions list over alleged links to human rights abuses in North Korea. She headed the North's delegation and has now returned home. The regime's human face By Laura Bicker, BBC News, Pyeongchang, South Korea You could almost feel the ripple of excitement as Kim Yo-jong walked into the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympic Games. Necks craned and mobile phones were held aloft to catch a glimpse. I found myself, along with others, leaning as far as I could over the balcony to try to see her in the VIP box below. The faces around the stadium all said one thing: she's here, on South Korean soil. She has given the secretive regime a human face. Read more from Laura Bicker here Her country is subject to a raft of sanctions from the US, the UN and the EU over its weapons programmes and Japan has said it remains sceptical about the "charm offensive". "I am aware that some people argue that because North Korea is engaging in dialogue we should reward them," Foreign Minister Taro Kono said before the Games. "Frankly I think this view is too naive. I believe that North Korea wants to buy some time to continue their nuclear missile programme." What does the US make of the North's overtures? Mr Pence stressed the US would continue imposing sanctions and putting pressure on Pyongyang.

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The Batmobile has taken on many incarnations over the years -- but the craziest is, by far, the "Tumbler," which was used in the "Dark Knight" trilogy -- "Batman Begins" (2005), "The Dark Knight" (2008) and "The Dark Knight Rises" (2012). The Tumbler doesn't look like anything else on the road -- but now you can have your own, as there's a replica listed for sale on Autotrader. This replica is offered for sale by a private seller in Orlando, and it's listed as a 2018 Lamborghini Aventador -- a vehicle that gets a lot of attention. Except this thing would get far more attention, as it truly looks identical to the insane, bizarrely designed vehicle from the movies. Since this vehicle is for sale in Florida, where just about anything can get titled and registered, it also comes as another perk: It's actually legally registered. It's titled, hilariously, as a 1968 Ford Mustang, and the ad description says it uses the engine from a 1969 Corvette. And here's the best part: It may actually be street legal, as the description says "it comes with LED headlights, brake lights, turn signals and floodlights, all of which are DOT approved." Although its asking price -- a massive $675,000 -- may seem like a lot, I've seen other replica Tumbler models for sale with similar asking prices, if not higher prices. And according to the ad description, this may be better than some of the other Tumbler models out there, as it's "the only Tumbler replica" that allows the driver to open the roof, which can also be activated via key fob. Other interesting items: Although there are no interior photos shown, the description says the interior includes three screens connected to different cameras, presumably created for improved visibility. "Also illuminated in the car's appearance," the ad says ominously, "is the live pyrotechnic setup … which provides a variable-length flame." Oh, boy. This is certainly one of the craziest cars I've ever seen listed for sale on Autotrader -- and now it can be yours. Be careful of the flame. Doug DeMuro is an automotive journalist who has written for many online and magazine publications. He once owned a Nissan Cube and a Ferrari 360 Modena. At the same time.

Oxfam's deputy chief executive has resigned over the handling of a sex scandal involving aid workers. The British charity is accused of concealing the findings of an inquiry into claims staff used prostitutes while delivering aid in Haiti in 2011. Penny Lawrence said she was "ashamed" and takes full responsibility. Oxfam - which denies a cover-up - has met with the International Development Secretary in a bid to prevent its government funding from being cut. Ms Lawrence joined Oxfam GB in 2006 as international programmes director, leading teams across 60 countries, according to the charity's website. Reality check: How much money goes to Oxfam? How will the Haiti scandal affect Oxfam? Oxfam boss says charity is ashamed Oxfam did not disclose 'full Haiti details' "Concerns were raised about the behaviour of staff in Chad as well as Haiti that we failed to adequately act upon," she said in a statement. "It is now clear that these allegations - involving the use of prostitutes and which related to behaviour of both the country director and members of his team in Chad - were raised before he moved to Haiti." The allegations emerged in The Times on Friday, which said Oxfam's country director for Haiti, Roland van Hauwermeiren, used prostitutes at a villa rented for him by Oxfam in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake. According to the paper, Oxfam knew about concerns over the conduct of Mr van Hauwermeiren and another man when they worked in Chad before they were given senior roles in Haiti. Oxfam said allegations that underage girls may have been involved were unproven. Widza Bryant, who worked in HR for Oxfam in Haiti from 2009 for three years, said she shared "ongoing rumours" about locals being exploited with her boss "on many occasions". She told BBC News: "There were a lot of rumours on the ground about management and leaders exploiting the locals sexually and in other ways to get jobs and to have good standing." Mark Goldring, chief executive of Oxfam GB, admitted failings to act on complaints and when it allowed Mr van Hauwermeiren to move onto another post after allegations were revealed. "At that time the use of prostitutes was not explicitly contrary to Oxfam's code of conduct - bringing Oxfam into disrepute in any way abusing people who may have been beneficiaries of course was." He said: "There was an exploration of how should the organisation respond but we didn't act on it." Funding risk The European Commission has said it expects full clarity and maximum transparency from Oxfam, adding that it is ready to "cease funding any partner not living up to high ethical standards". The charity's programme in Haiti received €1.7m in EU funds in 2011. International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt said Oxfam had apologised for its "appalling" behaviour and that the government had not been told at the time the allegations involved sexual misconduct or beneficiaries. Oxfam has been told to tell the Department for International Development by the end of the week how it will handle any future allegations around safeguarding or it faces losing government funding. Ms Mordaunt also called for clearer whistle blowing policies across the charitable sector and launched an urgent review into safeguarding and aid providers. The Innocent drinks company - one of Oxfam's corporate sponsors which donates around £100,000 per year- said it wants to see a clear plan "for how this could not ever happen again". The charity has since postponed a "Fashion Fighting Poverty" event, which had been due to take place as part of London Fashion Week on Thursday, saying it was not the "right time" at present. Oxfam's own investigation in 2011 led to four people being sacked and three others resigning, including Mr van Hauwermeiren. It produced a public report, which said "serious misconduct" had taken place in Haiti - but did not give details of the allegations. Oxfam chief executive Mr Goldring told the BBC that describing exact details of the behaviour at the time could have drawn "extreme attention" to it, which he said would have been in no-one's best interest.

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