Automotive

2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van Review

2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van Review
Do you have people-moving requirements but don’t need a large, expensive full-size van? Enter the Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van. It slots perfectly between small and full-size vans, becoming the only passenger van of its kind on the market. It’s fairly sparse on features and it doesn’t come with the typical Mercedes-Benz price tag. It does come, however, with a direct-injected turbo engine which delivers good fuel mileage for its size.
What’s New For 2017
Mercedes-Benz now offers a new Worker model available for both Cargo and Passenger configurations. They come with the same standard features as the regular models, but the limited number of configurations allows for a lower base price.
Features & Options
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van ($32,900) comes standard with 17-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, remote locking and unlocking, air-conditioning, adjustable steering wheel with mounted shift paddles, 2nd and 3rd row removable seats, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port.
Passenger models also get rear air-conditioning, heated rear window with washers and wipers, rear window tinting, and a nine-speaker audio system. All Metris vans have right and left side sliding rear doors. Further back, you’ll find 180-degree rear cargo doors. This Metris tester came with the optional power sliding doors on the right and left side ($760 each). Total MSRP, including destination: $35,415.

Interior Highlights
Inside the Mercedes-Benz Metris, it’s all about function and not so much about luxury. This van is for hauling customers around town in an efficient manner. When we first got in the van to drive it for Christmas weekend, we couldn’t find the outside mirror remote adjustment. Well, it didn’t have one.
There’s lots of room for the driver and passenger up front with plenty of head and elbow room for comfort. A long dash, tall windshield, and short hood give the driver a sense of spaciousness, plus excellent visibility for trips around the city. The driver’s seat is surprisingly comfortable for those frequent journeys that involve transporting people and their cargo. This van would be ideal for picking up and delivering passengers and their luggage as they arrive and depart from the airport.
This Metris tester came with the optional power sliding rear doors, which the driver can control from the cockpit. This makes it easy to load and unload, and step-in height is just 18.5 inches, allowing easy in-and-out. The seat height is just right so passengers can slide in and out easily. The vinyl flooring, which covers the front and passenger areas, makes it easy to clean up spills.
There’s two rows behind the driver and seating for seven total including the driver. The second row has two seats pushed to the left making it easy to enter the third row. The third row will seat adults comfortably, and there’s ample room behind for bags, suitcases, and other items. Second and third rows are removable so the van can be used to haul even more cargo when needed.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
Powering the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris is a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 208 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque. It’s paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, transferring power to the rear wheels. EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 20/23 city/highway and 22 combined mpg.
Driving Dynamics
The Mercedes-Benz Metris passenger hauler had more power than we expected, although we never had a van full of people to pull around. It could be called energetic compared to what you’ll find in other small passenger/cargo vans. The turbo 2.0-liter engine powered us up I-70 at altitude with minimal effort.
In terms of handling, we didn’t have high expectations for the Metris, however, the van is far from sloppy and even somewhat fun to drive around town, making those people-hauling commutes less of a chore. The 7-speed automatic transmission upshifts and downshifts quickly, especially through the steep grades we pushed the Metris on over the holiday weekend. Crosswinds were quite noticeable near the I-70 and Morrison portions of the highway, despite the load-adaptive stability control feature with Crosswind Assist.
The large, dark tinted side windows offer customers a comfortable place to view the outside world, without the outside world’s prying eyes seeing inside. Our only complaint with the Metris is how it isn’t offered with all-wheel drive. We experienced a snowfall in the mountains and the rear-drive passenger van struggled as we hit snowy and icy spots on our drive.
Conclusion
If you have a business that requires you to move people or cargo but don’t need a large, expensive full-size van, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris is worth a serious look. For around $35,000, you get a capable people mover that won’t cost a fortune at the pump and can navigate city streets easily.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Mercedes-Benz Metris Gallery

Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van Official Site.
Photos: MBUSA.

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Polestar Confirms Launch Markets For Polestar 1

Polestar Confirms Launch Markets For Polestar 1 For those of you late to the party, Polestar is Volvo’s performance brand. Then in October, Polestar became a new and separately branded electric performance car company. The Swedish auto group is now setting up its own dealership structure with interesting delivery methods. In case you have been chomping at the bit to get one of Volvo’s electric/hybrid hot rods, salvation is at hand: Polestar just announced which markets will be getting their cars first.
Hot Cakes
With regard to the Polestar 1, the sub-brand’s first car, the reservations have been flying off the virtual shelves. The Swedish automaker says new “subscriptions” already outnumber early production slots. In other words, there are more orders then there are cars on the assembly line at the moment. That’s got to be a good thing for a new car company to hear. When they launched the brand, Polestar says more than one customer per minute was registering their interest in being one of the first “owners” of a Polestar 1. And that’s one of the interesting things surrounding the car. It’s not just innovative in its design and build and technology, but they are also breaking out a semi-new way of “selling” the things.
To receive a Polestar 1, you don’t buy it, you subscribe to it.
Photo: Polestar.
At Your Service
In theory, this subscription model takes care of all of your personal transportation needs (as far as Polestar is concerned). You order the car virtually, sort of like buying something from Amazon. There will be dealerships to help customers see the vehicle and do the touch and feel thing, while the sales staff help them through the ordering process. The Polestar 1 and all follow on models will be offered using this new subscription model. To get a Polestar 1, there’s no deposit required and the all-inclusive monthly payment aims to deliver “hassle-free usage” and seemingly covers everything: insurance, depreciation, pick up and delivery for the inclusive servicing program, and various, on-demand benefits as-and-when you require them, sir or madam.
In a way, the Polestar 1 is sort of like cable TV in automobile form. All you do is contact your cable, er, Polestar provider, select your package (i.e. car) and the thing shows up. Any issues, call the number, and they’ll get it fixed. Yes, I know this sounds like a good idea in theory. In theory. As anyone who has waited around all friggin’ day for the cable guy to show up only to not have the right box in his truck might see the weak points in this idea. Then again, Polestar is selling something much more expensive than a cable subscription, so you’d hope they would be a little more attentive to customer support and satisfaction than a cable company. I mean, no one can be lower than a cable company when it comes to that stuff, can they?
Photo: Polestar.
Limited Release
The bad news is that the Polestar 1 will not be available worldwide on initial launch. The primary inaugural markets will be the United States, China, Germany, Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands. So if you’re a Polestar fan that lives in, oh, let’s say England, you’re out of luck on the first go round. Polestar says they went with these initial markets due to customer demand. More countries will be introduced across the world later on with a formal announcement made at a later date. Polestar Spaces, what they officially call dealerships, are expected to open by the middle of 2019.
The car itself, the Polestar 1, was covered by us recently, but just to fill you in, the first car with the Polestar logo on the hood is a 2+2 Grand Touring Coupé with a stonking 600 horsepower Electric Performance Hybrid powertrain. It has an all-electric range of 150 kilometers, or around 94 miles, which should be enough for around town driving.
Pricing & Availability
Polestar 1s will start rolling off the assembly line in mid-2019 at a new, purpose-built Polestar Production Center in Chengdu, China. Sadly, no word on price, but “expressions of interest” can be made through Polestar’s website. These will be converted when the formal order books for the Polestar 1 open early next year.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format.

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2017 Frankfurt Preview: The big-schnoz BMW Concept X7 iPerformance previews the company's incoming full-size...

2017 Frankfurt Preview: The big-schnoz BMW Concept X7 iPerformance previews the company's incoming full-size... Revealed ahead of its world debut at the 2017 IAA Frankfurt Auto Show, the BMW Concept X7 iPerformance previews the company’s long-awaited Mercedes-Benz GLS competitor.

What’s going on?
Some big nostrils! That’s what, or in this case, BMW’s ginormous kidney grilles on the all-new Concept X7 iPerformance. I mean, just look at them. They’re yuggggge and out of control!
Nonetheless, meet the Concept X7. It basically gives us a glimpse of what to expect with the company’s much-anitcipated full-size crossover. Long has Mercedes-Benz soldiered on with the full-size GLS, formerly the GL. BMW had yet to produce a competitor, focusing solely on the mid-range X5 and X6, along with the smaller, more compact and sportier, X1, X3, and the X4.
But now, they’re preparing to launch the X5’s big brother.
Due for a reveal at the 2017 IAA show in Frankfurt, the new X7 certainly boasts BMW’s new design language.
“The Concept introduces the BMW Sports Activity Vehicle DNA into the luxury segment. The new BMW design language employs just a few, extremely precise lines and subtle surface-work to raise the bar in terms of presence and prestige,” explains Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “The BMW Concept X7 iPerformance has a luxurious and sophisticated feel to it, thanks to its understated use of forms and incredibly precise details.”
What powers it?
Specific technical details are unavaialble. But BMW promises the Concept X7 iPerformance sports a BMW TwinPower turbocharged gas engine mated to an electric motor. The result is a plug-in hybrid powertrain, offering zero emissions capabilities and all-electric power.
Expect plenty of tech and luxury as well
Building up to be BMW’s newest flagship crossover, you can expect the X7 to be loaded with state-of-the-art tech and lots of luxury. It’ll basically be a lifted BMW 7-Series. So you can definitely imagine the X7 to come with everything minus the kitchen sink.
– By: Chris Chin
Source: BMW USA News
BMW Concept X7 iPerformance

The post 2017 Frankfurt Preview: The big-schnoz BMW Concept X7 iPerformance previews the company’s incoming full-size crossover SUV appeared first on egmCarTech.

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New Technology Addresses Intersection Safety

New Technology Addresses Intersection Safety
According to the United States Department of Transportation, 51 percent of all injury crashes and 28 percent of all fatal crashes occur at either an intersection or T-junction. The causes of these collisions are numerous. Sometimes, drivers are distracted or under the influence; others may have mistakenly misjudged the situation or were unable to see another car or pedestrian approaching. Overall, the National Safety Council found that over 40,000 motor vehicle deaths occurred in 2016, making it the deadliest year on U.S. roads since 2007.
Reducing The Numbers
Autonomous driving proponents believe vehicle perception technologies will help improve such grim statistics. In other words, if a vehicle could see its environment, communicate with other cars and the surrounding infrastructure, many – if not all – of today’s traffic accidents could be prevented, especially at intersections. One such technology is Continental’s Vehicle-to-X, a system that can detect road users within a 360° radius of an intersection. V2X communicates the position and movement of any objects within that field of vision to oncoming vehicles equipped with the technology. Continental says V2X is part of the company’s Intelligent Intersection concept, described as an “end-to-end solution.”
“Our solution is based on transferring and adapting vehicle-proven hardware and software solutions to an infrastructure application,” explained Jeremy McClain, Head of Systems & Technology, Chassis & Safety, Continental North America. “Cities will be able to deploy this technology to increase safety for their citizens and visitors alike.”
Continental’s V2X uses advanced sensor fusion algorithms and Dedicated Short-Range Communication (DSRC) units to generate an environmental model of the intersection. It can detect other cars, and is designed to prevent left-turning vehicles from getting struck head-on by traffic that may suddenly appear out of nowhere. V2X also detects pedestrians and cyclists, something other safety advocates say is an important element to consider. For example, Richard Schram, Technical Manager, Euro NCAP, highlighted the organization’s 2025 Road Map at AutoSens Brussels in September. He explained that Euro NCAP is working to minimize the higher fatality rates associated with two-wheeled vehicles in an accident.
Photo: Continental.
Eye In The Sky
However, pedestrians and cyclists only benefit from this technology if they can actually be detected by it, a critical point raised by Continental during the research and develop of V2X. By placing cameras, radar, and LiDAR at the corners of a intersection to communicate with vehicles, Continental hopes to reduce the number of accidents within an intersection. Continental says once those road users are detected, a list of relevant objects are delivered to a sensor fusion unit, which generates a comprehensive 360° environmental model.
Those relevant objects are then sent via Dedicated Short-Range Communications to every approaching vehicle. A special control unit inside the vehicle receives the messages, where an on-board system checks it for relevance, and triggers action accordingly if a critical situation is at hand. Should a collision appear imminent, a warning can be sent to the driver, or the vehicle’s brakes could be deployed automatically.
“With the Intelligent Intersection technology, we offer a new safety element with a perfect fit for future smart cities,” said Bastian Zydek, Project Manager, Intelligent Intersection. “Active monitoring of intersections provides the driver and/or intelligent vehicle system a very important time advantage to take action, even before a problem would have otherwise become visible.”
“In the longer term, the technology can also serve to improve inner-city traffic flow, thereby reducing travel time and vehicle emissions,” McClain added.
Photo: Continental.
Human Touch
Continetal will be discussing Intelligent Intersection and its corresponding technologies at the Consumer Electronics Show, Tuesday January 9th through Friday January 12th in Las Vegas, Nevada. Intelligent Intersection was first demonstrated on a test track in October at Continental’s development center in Brimley, Michigan. The next steps include a lager test and pilot implementation at an intersection in Columbus, Ohio.
Earlier this year, we met with Continental representatives during an industry event at Detroit’s Cobo Center. We learned about the company’s five different internal divisions, each with their own unique technologies and objectives. What we found was how each of those divisions come together to create the company’s single most important vision.
“The Intelligent Intersection is a showcase of collaborative safety and a further step towards reaching our Vision Zero – our vision of accident-free driving,” Zydek said.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Continental.

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Aventador S Roadster: The New, Top Chop Lambo

Aventador S Roadster: The New, Top Chop Lambo

The new Lamborghini Aventador S Roadster is here, but it is not really a roadster, nor is it a convertible. It’s really a targa version of the Aventador, but I’m not going to quibble about that and start getting all pedantic about correct automotive terminology. With a car like the Aventador S Roadster, who cares about stuff like that? The Aventador S Roadster, shoot any Lamborghini really, is the automotive equivalent of a freshman eight-and-a-half beers into his first fraternity kegger; the results are going to be spectacular if not necessarily positive.
Strong Like Bull
The Aventador S Roadster is, 99% of the time, just like a “normal” Aventador S. The only real difference is the removable roof panel that will allow the wind to mess your hair up like you’re standing outside in a hurricane. This, for some people, actually sounds like a good thing and, on most days, I am one of them.
The Aventador S Roadster is, like the fighting bull it is named after, big, powerful, and nothing to be trifled with. Sure, sure, it has all those modern high tech niceties like traction control and four wheel steering and stuff like that, but you know – just know – that some rich kid with more money than sense or skill is going to uncork an Aventador S Roadster (probably within weeks of buying it) and wrap it around a tree.
How can I say this? How can I say all those computers upon computers and the even more computers along for the ride will not work? Simple answer: Physics. Let’s look at the numbers, shall we?
Improved vertical control comes from an updated pushrod suspension, new rear springs, and the Lamborghini Magneto-rheological Suspension (LMS) with revised kinematics for the new four-wheel steering. A real-time variable damping system optimizes wheel and body control. Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Numerical Factors
The Aventador S Roadster is a big girl. She’s just under 189 inches long overall, just under 80 inches wide, and tips the scales at 3,582 pounds dry weight with a 43 to 57 percent weight distribution. Add in a full 85 liters of fuel, 13 liters of oil, and your butt in the driver’s seat, and even those massive contact patches provided by the vast Pirelli meats (255/30/ZR20s up front and 355/25/ZR21 out the back) will, eventually, be overwhelmed by the laws of physics. Or, as Enzo Ferrari once said to a displeased customer who had just totaled his prancing horse, “being a Ferrari owner does not make you a Ferrari driver.”
That same ethos applies to the glorified tractors that bear Ferruccio’s name and are made at the behest of corporate overlords Audi, especially when you look at the other numbers, the real numbers, the numbers that count for the Aventador S Roadster.
Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Power & Performance
To wit: The engine. It’s a 6.5-liter lump of alloy and whirling parts that puts out 740 horsepower and 509 lb-ft. of torque. All that power that eventually hits the strada via the Pirellis runs through a Haldex gen IV electronically controlled 4WD system, and a 7-speed double dry plate gearbox with variable “shifting characteristics.” The drive modes are, get this, listed as STRADA, SPORT, CORSA, and the new EGO mode. Lambo says these modes influence “every aspect of the car’s behavior through management of traction, steering, and suspension.” The EGO mode (hey, at least they’re up front with their name!) permits the driver to set up their preferred criteria in each mode to suit their driving style. If you ask me, there should also be a mode that turns off all of the governors. Lambo could call it SUICIDIO mode. But they never listen to me, so this probably will never happen.
All this adds up to a beautifully flashy way to shuffle off this mortal coil. Top speed, for example, is listed at 217 mph. Lambo always mentions top speed first, because that is traditionally what is closest to their hearts. From a dead stop you’ll hit 62 mph in 3 seconds flat. In another 6 seconds, 9 seconds total, you’ll be seeing 124 mph. In 25 seconds from a dead stop, you’ll hit 186 mph. Braking is, thankfully just as prodigious. You can haul the Aventador S Roadster down to a complete stop from 62 mph in only 102 feet.
The TFT digital dashboard can be customized to the driver’s preferences and Apple CarPlay is standard. Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Open-Air Enjoyment
The Aventador S Roadster is all about that targa top though. The removable hardtop roof panels weigh less than six kg (about 13 pounds) and are convexly molded to ensure maximum cabin space for the occupants. It has that old Zagato double bubble feel to it. The hardtop roof panels are finished in matte black and are made of carbon fiber, naturally. There are options such as high gloss black, shiny visible carbon fiber, plus more color options using Lambo’s Ad Personam customization program. And I must sayt I love how they named the program in Latin.
The roof panels pop off quickly and are stored in the front trunk. There’s also a rear window that is electrically operated if you want more wind and more opera from that V12 plant sitting at your shoulder. That rear window can be closed while the roof panel is off to minimize cabin noise and airflow, but why would you want to do that?
The Lamborghini Aventador S Roadster gives you all this for a paltry $460,247.00. The first customers will take delivery in February; in the meantime, it will be displayed next week at the International Automobile Exhibition in Frankfurt, Germany.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias toward lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.

Photos & Source: Automobili Lamborghini.

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Bentley Continental GT: It’s Not A Sports Car, But It’s Still Fast

Bentley Continental GT: It’s Not A Sports Car, But It’s Still Fast

This is the all-new Bentley Continental GT. It is many things, but one thing it is definitely not, is a sports car. Yes, it is very fast. Yes, it can cover huge amounts of ground at high speed. Yes, it has NASA levels of technology packed within. But, this thing weighs more than a Sherman tank. No, Bentley doesn’t give weight figures, but I’m willing to bet this Bentley, like all Bentleys before it, tips the scales at least double what a real sports car should.
Red Carpet Treatment
No, the Bentley Continental GT will not be seen at an Autocross meet any time soon, although it might be entertaining if it were to. The Bentley Continental GT is not about stripped down, high performance at all costs. No, the Continental GT is all about getting you from, say, Madison Avenue out to your place in Montauk, and doing so quickly and quietly, while drowning you in wood and leather and luxury and high tech connectivity and more wood and leather.
Wait, what am I saying? How nouveau riche. Madison Avenue to Montauk, how gauche of me. More like from your place in Kensington up to Highclere.
Power & Performance
Yes, the Bentley Continental GT is fat and overstuffed with riches and tech, turning it into a rolling gentlemen’s club. But, somehow, it is also capable of getting up and moving fast. This third generation of the Continental GT, which the Anglo-German company refers to as the “definitive luxury Grand Tourer,” is motivated down The Strand thanks to an enhanced version of the company’s 6.0-liter W12 TSI twin-turbocharged engine. It delivers 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft. of Sarsen pulling torque, good enough to make this hefty ride hit 60 mph in 3.6 seconds with a top speed of 207 mph. That W12 plant is mated to a dual-clutch, eight-speed transmission. This is the first application of that gearbox in a Bentley, and it makes for faster, more efficient gear changes.
Designed, developed, and handbuilt in Crewe, the W12 TSI engine is one of the most advanced in Bentley’s history. The unique “W” configuration means the engine is 24 percent shorter than a traditional V12. This helps weight distribution and increases cabin space. Bentley utilizes precise engine management technology that makes 300 million software calculations per second. Photo: Bentley Motors.
Chassis Implementation
The new Continental GT has, of course, gotten a new skin to cruise around in. And although it is modern and attractive (from some angles), it is, sadly I think, rather copycat and lacking in understatement (something 99 percent of Bentley owners value highly). The Conti GT oozes along on a new, technically innovative, adaptive chassis that uses Bentley’s 48-volt Dynamic Ride System. This new system controls ride comfort and lateral roll, “cushioning passengers from excessive movement as well as making the car feel effortlessly precise,” cause, you know, your butt’s worth a couple billion dollars, so you better give it more cushion.
The exterior was created using what Bentley calls a revolutionary technology, resulting in a lightweight, yet stiff, body structure. The engine is positioned further back in the chassis to improve weight distribution, of course, and results in “driver-focused, dynamic performance.”
Steering feel and suspension design was a focal point for Bentley. The Electric Power-Assisted Steering, with a variable rack ratio, improves feedback and isolates unwanted road disturbances for better overall handling. The air suspension uses three-chamber air springs which gives the Continental GT 60 percent more air volume in the softest setting than the previous model. Photo: Bentley Motors.

Interior Finishes
The new Bentley Continental GT is a four seater. No plebian bench seat in the back. Oh no. None of that for the Bentley buyer, thank you very much. And the new Conti has improved luggage capacity for, get this, “genuine real-world usability.” Gee, I wonder how many cinder blocks I could haul back from the hardware store in the thing? I’ll ask for a loaner from Bentley and let you know how that “genuine real-world usability” works out.
The interior, which Bentley redundantly calls a “luxurious cabin,” is saturated in features and details that quietly scream: “look at how much money you just spent!” There’s a new “diamond in diamond” leather design which one-ups that now-old diamond stitch pattern that Bentley popularized a short while back. Your choice of off the rack interior colors come from the “extensive portfolio of 15 colors across hides and carpets.” Seriously, the whole 4,000 word Bentley press release uses terms like that continually. The more I read, the more I find myself starting to agree with Cecil Rhodes and what should have been done with The Cape Colony.
The Bentley Continental GT offers a Bang & Olufsen 1,500 watt, 16-speaker system with illuminated speaker grilles. It benefits from the first automotive application of the BeoSonic system – a new way for tone setting with a one-touch user interface. Photo: Bentley Motors.
Laundry Lists
But, as Olde English as the new Continental GT is, it also has lots of that high tech stuff nestled within. There is an advanced, fully digital, driver-focused instrument panel and this thing they call the “Bentley Rotating Display.” The Bentley Rotating Display features a 12.3-inch touchscreen stored in a three-sided unit and, as the name implies, revolves the veneer to reveal the touchscreen and analogue dials.
Bentley goes on, at Silmarillion-like length about every last detail of the new Continental GT, but most of it is, again, very Silmarillion-like, and rather uninteresting; how they choose the carpets, the hand-finished twisted polished wheel finish, luxurious haptic finishes, Mulliner Bespoke buttock massagers, cut-crystal effect taillights, and more . . . so much, much more. Okay, one of those is a joke, but I’ll let you figure out which one, but reading through it becomes hard to tell whether Bentley is being serious or having a laugh with this stuff.
The Bentley Continental GT will make its global debut at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show starting on September 14th. No word on when it will reach showrooms or what it will cost. Probably those answers are “pretty soon” and “comparable to a yacht.”
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias toward lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.

Photos & Source: Bentley Motors.

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New Graphic Details Three Decades of The Honda Civic Si

New Graphic Details Three Decades of The Honda Civic Si The Civic is the quintessential Honda, seen by many today as a reliable and affordable means of transportation. The Civic Si was greeted the same way when it debuted in 1986 on the heels of the CRX Si a year earlier. Since then, the car has seen its fair share of revisions and upgrades, but despite three decades passing, the cost of the car hasn’t changed all that much after adjusting for inflation.
The team at HondaPartsOnline.net put together this interesting comparison chart that details the Civic Si’s specs and pricing through the years.
“Performance enthusiasts know this Honda combines some smooth shifting, quick agility, and unmistaken power into a reasonably priced compact,” said Cesar Aranda, HondaPartsOnline.net Director. “Other car brands don’t offer this kind of performance and quality for the price, so we thought it would be fun to look at the pricing history and see if the Si is still an affordable option.”
Dressed To Impress
The United States Congress outlined the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards in 1975 following the 1973 oil embargo. Through the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975, Congress established fuel economy standards for cars to begin meeting by 1978. By 1985, automakers were expected to record an average of 27.5 mpg with their fleets. With the Civic Si, Honda was uniquely positioned to meet these increasing demands. When the hatchback Si arrived, it delivered 26 in the city and 30 on the highway. By comparison, today’s Honda Civics deliver 40 or above on the highway, depending on the model.
1986 Honda Civic CRX Si. Photo: Honda North America.
Power & Performance
Performance was solid for the 1986 Civic Si at 91 horsepower. A series of sensors assisted the car’s computer in handling what Honda called “timed-sequential multi-port Programmed Fuel Injection.” By comparison, the Civic Type R is the most powerful car Honda has ever sold in the United States. The 2.0-liter engine under the hood is characterized by direct injection, a dual overhead cam, and Honda’s evergreen VTEC technology. The Type R creates 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque, a great deal more than Civic buyers in the 80s were used to.
“Honda’s been racing motorcycles since 1955, and they were building Formula 1 engines in 1983. It’s not an exaggeration to say that Honda is one of the best engine builders in the world,” Aranda explained. “Considering that Honda has pioneered a lot of engine performance technology, it’s great that they continue to improve this high performing, affordable model for the public.”
Honda Civic Type R. Photo: Honda North America.
Pricing Comparisons
HondaPartsOnline.net analyzed the pricing through the years and found that, when adjusting for inflation, not much has changed. In fact, in some variations, today’s Civics cost less. For example, when the 2003 Civic Si hatchback’s MSRP is adjusted for inflation, it rings up nearly $2,000 more than the 2017 base model. On a similar note, the 2017 Si coupe has better fuel economy and more horsepower, but costs less than the 2015 model.
“Honda keeps improving the performance on the Si, reducing the weight, and keeping the price low,” Aranda added.
The graphic from HondaPartsOnline.net is below. Enjoy!
Carl Anthony in Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

Civic Photos: Honda North America.

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2018 Hyundai Tucson Arrives In Dealerships With More Updates, Technology

2018 Hyundai Tucson Arrives In Dealerships With More Updates, Technology The Hyundai Tucson recorded its best November in the company’s history, and as the new model arrives for 2018, expect to see more available features. More than 90 percent of 2018 model year Tucsons will feature a 7-inch audio display, HD Radio, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and heated seats. The Guidance Package offers free map and multimedia system updates and unique fabric seats, made by YES Essentials, are now standard for the gray and beige interiors.
Power & Performance
The 2018 Hyundai Tucson is motivated by two different four-cylinder engines, a 1.6-liter or a 2.0-liter. Both engines untilize direct injection while the 1.6-liter is turbocharged for additional power and efficiency. The 1.6-liter makes 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft. of torque when paired to Hyundai’s seven-speed EcoShift dual-clutch transmission. Expect to see this combination on the Value and Limited trims. By comparison, the 2.0-liter creates 164 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque when matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination is standard on SE, SEL, and SEL Plus trims.
EPA fuel economy estimates come in at 27 combined mpg for the 1.6-liter turbo and 26 combined mpg for the 2.0-liter. The 2.0-liter’s transmission has an overdrive lock-up torque converter to increase fuel economy at higher speeds. All-wheel drive is available across the lineup.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Trim Levels
The SE trim remains as the base model, although the SE Popular Equipment package is now the SEL trim. This latter trim level includes the aforementioned 7-inch audio display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The SE Plus is now SEL Plus; the Value and Limited trims remain but Eco and Night have been discontinued. That said, the trim levels for the 2018 Hyundai Tucson, in order, are SE, SEL, SEL Plus, Value, and Limited.
Those opting for the SEL Plus and Limited trims get three years of Blue Link Connected Car Services, including the previously mentioned Guidance Package. The Blue Link system lets drivers start and adjust their Tucson’s interior climate remotely and schedule maintenance among other things. Those going for the Value trims will have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay at their service while Limited customers will be treated to a heated steering wheel.
Heated front seats have been expanded to the SEL trim and above, HomeLink is now available starting with the Value trim, and SiriusXM and HD Radio are now available starting with the SEL models. Other available features for the 2018 Hyundai Tucson include proximity key, push button start, panoramic sunroof, Clean Air Ionizer, and an Infinity premium audio system with Clari-Fi Music Restoration Technology. The latter is featured on the SEL Plus as well as the Limited trim.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Safety & Styling
The 2018 Hyundai Tucson has a number of available advanced driver assistance systems like blind spot detection with rear-cross traffic alert, lane change assist, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. On the outside, the Tucson is characterized by 17 or 19-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lamps, and HID headlights that turn as the steering wheel does for better visibility at night.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Hyundai Tucson is available now with a starting MSRP of $22,550 for the front-wheel drive SE with the 2.0-liter. The same model with all-wheel drive runs $23,950. At the top end, the front-wheel drive Limited with the 1.6-liter goes for $29,425; $30,825 with all-wheel drive. Buyers who want to land in the middle of the specturm might consider the SEL Plus with the 2.0-liter. When equipped with front-wheel drive, the MSRP is $26,700; $28,100 with all-wheel drive.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
2018 Hyundai Tucson Gallery

Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor America.

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2018 Nissan Leaf Makes North American Debut

2018 Nissan Leaf Makes North American Debut

The 2018 Nissan Leaf was unveiled at a media event in Las Vegas yesterday (September 6th) at the Thomas & Mack Center. The Las Vegas appearance followed the vehicle’s global launch earlier in Tokyo, Japan. The 2018 Leaf underscores Nissan’s commitment to clean and efficient transportation.
“When we launched Leaf in 2010, it instantly became the most affordable, mass market EV in the world,” said José Muñoz, Chief Performance Officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. during the Las Vegas event. “We are not walking away from that proposition.”
Technology & Performance
The 2018 Nissan Leaf has an estimated 150 miles of range with the automaker’s latest segment innovations, including a more aerodynamic exterior, advanced driver assistance systems like ProPILOT Assist, and an e-Pedal feature for more efficient driving. In 2019, a high powered variant is expected with increased motor and battery capacity. Nissan is aiming for segment leadership by focusing on extensive testing and consumer interactions.
“This new Leaf is not just the latest symbol of Nissan’s global leadership in the EV segment,” Muñoz remarked. “It is the culmination of everything we’ve learned from more than two billion miles of real life, on-road driving and from the feedback of hundreds of thousands of owners around the world, particularly Leaf customers here in the U.S.”
Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Nissan Leaf will arrive at dealerships early next year with a starting MSRP under $30,000. That’s less than the current Leaf despite the 2018 variant offering more technology, range, and power. To date, Nissan has sold over 112,000 Leaf EVs in the United States and more than 283,000 globally, making it the world’s best-selling electric vehicle.
“We believe the new Leaf will be another game changer for Nissan in the U.S., just as the redesigned Rogue has been in the last year and a half, hitting the ‘sweet spot’ in the growing EV segment,” Muñoz added. “It takes everything we’ve learned from our loyal first-generation Leaf owners to the next level.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Photos & Source: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

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