Automotive

Inside The 2019 Toyota TRD Pro Lineup

Inside The 2019 Toyota TRD Pro Lineup Toyota Racing Development, more commonly known as TRD, has created architectures, engines, and parts for a variety of Toyota vehicles. TRD supported off-road legend Ivan “Ironman” Stewart for three decades on his path to multiple championships and race victories in Baja, U.S. off-road desert, and short-course off-road races. TRD most recently celebrated CJ Greave’s 2017 Pro 4 Championship in The Off-Road Championship Series (TORC).
And now, coming to a driveway near you – or perhaps your own – the 2019 Toyota TRD Pro Series.
Shock Therapy
The 2019 TRD Pro Series will encompass the Tundra, 4Runner, and Tacoma, and all feature new colors, unique exterior treatments, and a variety of off-road goodies designed and tested by TRD engineers. Of those goodies, the 2.5-inch Fox Internal Bypass shocks stand out the most. Tuned specifically for each vehicle, the aluminum-bodied Fox shocks offer generous but appropriate damping for a wide variety of situations, be it high-speed desert running, low-speed rock crawling, or simply driving around town.
Toyota points out the difference between the Fox Internal Bypass shocks and traditional ones, saying the latter usually have external bypass tubes on the body to fine-tune damping pressure. By contrast, the Fox design incorporates the bypass zones inside the shock. These multiple bypass zones offer a more cushioned and plush ride for normal driving, but can get progressively stiffer through the shock stroke to prevent bottoming out.
The front shocks combine high-temperature fluid and nitrogen gas pressure to improve ride, soften hard bumps, and provide better protection for the seals. Moving to the rear, the piggyback reservoirs house additional oil to increase damping performance while driving through demanding terrains.

Tacoma TRD Pro
If there is one truck that embodies the TRO Pro mantra, it’s the Tacoma. On the TRD Pro version, the Fox front shocks employ 46mm pistons and eight bypass zones, five for compression and three for rebound. The shocks are paired with TRD-tuned springs for an additional inch of lift, while a larger front sway bar promotes sharper steering. In the rear, the Fox shocks have 11 bypass zones, seven for compression, four for rebound, and are paired with the aforementioned piggyback reservoirs. The Tacoma also features “progressive-rate” leaf springs.
Other highlights include a front skid plate with red TRD lettering, cat-back exhaust, an Entune Premium JBL Audio system, Rigid Industries LED fog lights, and Goodyear Wrangler Kevlar All-Terrain tires (P265/70R16). The optional Desert Air Intake system, a snorkel-like device that runs up the passenger side pillar, allows the engine to take air (likely to be less dusty and dirty) from above the windshield.

Tundra TRD Pro
The older brother’s TRD-tuned springs provide an additional two inches of front lift while front wheel travel increases more than 1.5 inches; rear wheel travel improves by over two inches. The Tundra TRD Pro’s front shocks feature 11 bypass zones, seven compression, four bypass, to keep the truck more composed during aggressive off-road driving. The rear Fox shocks have 12 bypass zones, eight compression and four bypass. Like the Tacoma, the Tundra’s rear shocks employ the aforementioned piggyback reservoirs.
The 18-inch BBS forged-aluminum, five-spoke satin black wheels cut un-sprung mass 3.35 lbs. per wheel (13.4 lbs. total) to improve cornering response and overall ride quality. The new wheels are wrapped in Michelin P275/65R18 all-terrain tires. Similar to the Tacoma, Rigid Industries again supplies the LED fog lights, and the TRD-themed skid plate returns as does the exhaust system. The “TRD Pro” stamping on the Tundra’s rear quarter panels is a nice touch.
The 2018 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro on display at the Chicago Auto Show, McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
4Runner TRD Pro
The 4Runner receives a one-inch lift and nearly an additional inch of wheel travel in its TRD PRO skin. The front shocks employ 46mm pistons and include seven bypass zones, four compression and three rebound. In the rear, there are eleven bypass zones, seven for compression and four for rebound, with the piggyback reservoirs again being utilized. The 4Runner’s “roost shields” help protect the inverted rear shock.
Those hitting the trail will certinately appreciate the roof rack and skid plate. For said trails, the 4Runner TRD Pro features a one-inch wider track with Nitto Terra Grappler A/T tires (P265/70R17).
The 2018 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro on display at the Chicago Auto Show, McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Availability & In Person
The 2019 Toyota TRD Pro lineup will arrive this fall. In the meantime, the vehicles are on display at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show now through the 19th at the McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
2019 Toyota TRD Pro Gallery

Photos & Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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Maserati Takes Over The Windy City

Maserati Takes Over The Windy City Maserati North America will have their entire 2018 lineup in the house at the Chicago Auto Show. Visitors will be able to view two Levante SUVs, the Ghibli sports sedan, the flagship Quattroporte executive sedan, and the GranTurismo sports car. The House of the Trident’s portfolio will be on display along with the available palettes and trims. All four distinct model lines have received upgrades for 2018 and attendees can see them firsthand.
Artistic Fashion
The 2018 Ghibli S Q4 on display is themed in a beautiful Grigio Maratea color alongside another in a striking Blu Emozione hue. Of the two Quattroporte vehicles on display, one is finished with a Bianco Alpi exterior and an ultra-luxurious Ermenegildo Zegna silk interior. The second is a 2018 Quattroporte GTS with a dark Nero Ribelle tone. In addition, there will be a black 2018 Levante S and a grey one, alongside a red 2018 GranTurismo MC.
The Ghibli and Levante now come in GranLusso and GranSport trims, previously introduced for the Quattroporte range. The latter was envisioned as a sportier expression of the high-end lifestyle, while the GranLusso is more about sophistication and luxury. The cabin combines a choice of Ermenegildo Zegna silk or full premium Italian upholstery with Radica open-pore wood trim and a leather steering wheel. In short, these vehicles in Chicago are works of art.
The Maserati display at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show, McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois. Photo: Maserati North America.
Technology & Performance
The 2018 Ghibli and Quattroporte now feature adaptive LED headlights with glare free high-beam technology. The LED headlights were developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting, and were based on the Ghibli’s Matrix technology. When it comes to performance, both Maserati sedans feature power-dense 3.0-liter V6 engines with Integrated Vehicle Control systems developed in partnership with Bosch.
Pricing & In Person
The 2018 Ghibli starts at $73,780 and the Levante at $74,790; the Quattroporte starts just shy of $107,000, while the GranTurismo begins at $134,300. Maserati’s display will be open for the duration of the Chicago Auto Show, now through the 19th at the McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois.
Photos & Source: Maserati North America.

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2019 Volkswagen Arteon: Not So Fastback

2019 Volkswagen Arteon: Not So Fastback Meet the 2019 Volkswagen Arteon, the automaker’s latest to arise from their now ubiquitous MQB platform. VW unveiled the car at the Chicago Auto Show, billing it as a flagship fastback with an upscale interior and innovate technology. Further to that, VW has high aspirations for the Arteon.
“The Arteon is Volkswagen’s brand shaper,” explained Hinrich J. Woebcken, CEO of the North American Region, Volkswagen. “This car is the spiritual successor to the CC, but it is bolder and faster.”
Underpinnings
The Arteon is characterized by the aforementioned Modular Transverse Matrix architecture, or more commonly known as MQB. The architecture facilitates a “cab-backward design,” giving the Arteon a different look than the CC. For example, the Arteon’s wheelbase is more than 5 inches longer than the CC – 111.9 inches versus 106.7 inches – and is paired with shorter overhangs for more dynamic proportions. Arteon is longer and wider as well, meaning more interior space when compared to the CC.
Power & Performance
The 2019 VW Arteon will jet down the highway courtesy of a 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI engine with direct-injection. The engine creates 268 horsepower, 258 lb-ft. of torque, and is paired to an eight-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard but VW’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system is available on every trim level. The Arteon utilizes a standard DCC adaptive damping system, which manages the suspension’s rebound and compression rates individually to maximize ride and handling dynamics.
2019 Volkswagen Arteon on display at the Chicago Auto Show, McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois.
Exterior Design
VW says the exterior design resembles a “true fastback” and that it “harkens more to luxury models with its wide, planted stance and sloping rear roofline.” Okay, so fair enough. We don’t doubt the luxury elements and the planted stance, but as far as the fastback part goes, in terms of exterior styling, the Arteon is nowhere near as visually appealing as the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe or Kia Stinger. Against those two, it’s C plus at best.
The Arteon is a nice enough looking car, but next to its Gran Turismo contemporaries, the styling barely moves the needle. It’s boring and dry, unfortunately, and filled with significantly more meh than marvel. Still, the Arteon is likely to be embraced by VW fans and should satisfy a good swath of buyers when it arrives.
“Arteon has the style and performance of a luxury Gran Turismo for about the price of a fully loaded midsize sedan,” Woebcken said.
The Arteon is characterized by LED headlights and taillights, a wide chrome grille, and frameless side windows. Dual trapezoidal exhaust tips, chrome window surrounds, and a rear decklid spoiler compliment the standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. 19-inch wheels are available.
Interior Treatments
Drivers will find a host of premium materials throughout that make for a modern and sophisticated feel. Such niceties include standard heated front seats with leatherette surfaces, while ventilated front seats, massaging driver’s seat, Nappa leather, heated rear seats, and a panoramic sunroof are all available.
Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit adorns the 2019 Arteon, which helps drivers mange, configure, and position key data like navigation. The Car-Net App-Connect system, a focal point of the Arteon, is compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink.
Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Availability & In Person
The 2019 Volkswagen Arteon will be available in SE, SEL, and SEL Premium trim levels when it arrives during the third quarter of this year. In the meantime, the vehicle is on display at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show now through the 19th at the McCormick Place in Chicago.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
2019 Volkswagen Arteon Gallery

Photos & Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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Dodge Durango Upgrade Packages Add Super Cool Features For Little Coin

Dodge Durango Upgrade Packages Add Super Cool Features For Little Coin Ask Dodge any question today and the answer is horsepower! And we’re not just talking about the Charger and Challenger either. The Durango posts up numbers that rival both cars and does so with a lot more cargo space! For example, the new for 2018 Durango SRT features a 392-cubic-inch HEMI V8 with 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque. This family hauler hits 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and runs the quarter-mile in 12.9 seconds as certified by the National Hot Rod Association.
And now enthusiasts can customize their Dodge Durango even further.
Underrated Performer
The Dodge Durango is, in our minds, underrated and unfortunately lost in a flooded SUV market. Those who have an affinity for performance or muscle cars but have “grown up” will find the Durango satisfies both ends of the spectrum. Plenty of room, comfort, and connectivity technology for the family, and plenty of grunt under the hood and exterior styling to match. If the Durango can be labeled anything it most certainly won’t be classified as boring.
This latest round of upgrades focuses on the Durango R/T and SRT. In short, it consists of factory-custom stripes and performance exhaust systems. The Durango SRT, however, will offer a carbon fiber interior option and a lowering spring kit to improve handing. Here is the breakdown of each upgrade package.

Dual Stripes
The dual exterior stripes span the front and rear fascias, hood, and portions of the roof and the tailgate. The stripes are offered in five colors: Bright Blue, Flame Red, Gunmetal Low Gloss (metallic finish), Low Gloss Black, and Sterling Silver (metallic finish). Dealer orders for the new stripe package will start in March for $1,195.
Exhaust System
This Mopar performance exhaust kit was developed alongside Dodge and SRT engineers. The bolt-on system is designed for improved flow, sound, and overall performance. The chromium 304 stainless steel construction is said to improve corrosion resistance while the stainless steel, band-style clamps provide tighter seals. The system is finished with welded and polished 4-inch tips.
The performance exhaust system for the Durango SRT (Part Number 77072487) goes for $1,850 and will be available in the second quarter. The new Durango R/T system (Part Number 77072479) is already available for $1,595.
Photo: FCA US LLC.
Lowering Kit
Like the exhaust system, Mopar worked closely with Dodge and SRT engineers, using proprietary data unavailable to the aftermarket, to tune the lowering springs to the factory-fitted dampers. The lowering spring kit improves the Durango’s high-speed performance and handling, dropping the vehicle an average of 15 mm (0.6 inches). The kit minimizes rear-end squat during acceleration and lessens the “nose dive” effect under heavy braking.
The new spring kit (Part Number 77072488) will be available in March for $325.00. Considering the benefits, that’s a really excellent price.
Photo: FCA US LLC.
Interior Treatments
Last but not least, the SRT Interior Appearance Group features a premium-wrapped instrument panel, Dinamica soft-touch headliner, and accent paint throughout. This package of fine touches is already available for $2,495.
In Person
Dodge is showcasing these new, decked-out Durangos at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show, now through the 19th. If you add any of these modifications to your Durango, send us a picture and we will share it on our Twitter page.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.

Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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Amazon, Nissan Tech Lets Owners Talk To Their Vehicles

Amazon, Nissan Tech Lets Owners Talk To Their Vehicles

The worst feeling in the world is forgetting where you put your keys. You dump out your bag, slap all your pockets, and retrace your steps over and over again. Well, Nissan understands and later this month, some Nissan owners will be able to start their vehicle simply by speaking. Amazon Alexa, powered by NissanConnect Services, adds the new skill to a growing list of over 25,000.
This is the ideal time to utter the phrase, “the future is here.”
Voice Activation
Nissan owners will be able to find the new skill, called “NissanConnect Services,” under the connected car category in the Amazon Skills Store. The new skill is free to use and provides Nissan owners a way to vocally communicate with their vehicle, from locking and unlocking the doors, to honking the horn, flashing the lights, and starting the vehicle. A 4-digit pin will be required to send certain commands, like remote starting.
“Alexa, start my GT-R.” Photo: Nissan North America.
Ownership Experience
This approach comes from Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility initiative, which is meant to enhance the relationship between driver and vehicle. For example, owners can even name their Nissan.
“Intelligent integration means helping our customers even when they are not behind the wheel,” explained Dan Teeter, Director, Vehicle Connected Services, Nissan North America, Inc. “We are about bringing unexpected innovations to customers, and are excited to offer this technology to both existing and new Nissan owners.”
The services will be available on vehicles equipped with NissanConnect Services, an on-board telematics system. Amazon’s Alexa integration will require owners to have an active subscription to NissanConnect Services and a Nissan Owner Portal account, although the NissanConnect Services app does not need to be running to use the service. Once linked to a Nissan Owners Portal account with a compatible Nissan vehicle, owners can then utilize the voice commands.
We have included a chart below showing which Nissan vehicles are compatible.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Nissan Altima
2016, 2017, 2017.5
Nissan Armada
2018
Nissan GT-R
2017
Nissan Maxima
2016, 2017
Nissan Murano
2016, 2017.5
Nissan Pathfinder
2017, 2018
Nissan Rogue
2016, 2017
Nissan Rogue Sport
2017
Nissan Sentra
2016, 2017
Nissan TITAN
2017
Nissan TITAN XD
2016, 2017
Photos & Source: Nissan North America.

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2018 Acura ILX Arrives, Special Edition Available

2018 Acura ILX Arrives, Special Edition Available

We recently drove the 2018 Acura TLX A-Spec and enjoyed our time behind the wheel. We thought it was comfortable enough for city commuting but snappy enough for the open road. Recently, the 2018 Acura ILX arrived at the dealership and with it, a new Special Edition designation with A-Spec appointments. Acura says the ILX is meant to capture new luxury buyers and serve as a “gateway” to brand’s entire lineup.
Features Galore
Standard equipment on all ILX models includes Acura’s JewelEye LED headlights, an 8-way power driver’s seat, multi-view rearview camera, auto on/off headlights, one-touch power moonroof, a 5-inch Multi-View Display, Bluetooth capability, and push-button start. AcuraWatch, a suite of active safety technologies, is available on all ILX models, but standard when the Tech Plus package is selected.
The ILX Premium trim treats drivers to HD and Aha Radio, an 8-inch upper display, a 7-inch On-Demand Multi-Use Display, and HomeLink among other features.
Photo: Honda North America.
Premium Feel
The ILX A-Spec trims, Premium and Tech Plus, have a decklid spoiler, front fog lights, 18-inch 10-spoke machined alloy wheels, and exterior A-Spec badging in three locations: left and right front fenders and trunk lid. Acura is going for a lot of curb appeal here with this new look.
The interior is decorated with a Premium Black theme that includes perforated Lux Suede seat inserts. Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the instrument panel’s red background, contrasted with the gray interior stitching and aluminum pedals.
Power & Performance
All 2018 Acura ILX models are propelled by a 2.4-liter direct-injected DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder, creating 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft. of torque. A Sequential SportShift 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission with paddle shifters helps disperse the power. Acura says the transmission is both crisp and responsive with “performance and exceptional efficiency at your fingertips.”
Photo: Honda North America.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Acura ILX is available now with a starting MSRP of $28,100. The new Special Edition, by contrast, begins at $28,900. A handy chart showing the trim levels and corresponding prices is below.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Trim
MSRP
EPA MPG Rating (city/highway/combined)
ILX
$28,100
25/35/29
ILX Special Edition
$28,900
25/35/29
ILX AcuraWatch Plus
$29,400
25/35/29
ILX Premium
$30,100
25/35/29
ILX Premium A-Spec
$32,100
25/35/29
ILX Tech Plus
$33,100
25/35/29
ILX Tech Plus A-Spec
$35,100
25/35/29
2018 Acura ILX Gallery

Photos & Source: Honda North America.

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2018 Chevy Traverse RS: Not Your Father’s Traverse

2018 Chevy Traverse RS: Not Your Father’s Traverse SUVs are a viable option for many consumers today. In general, SUVs offer enough interior room for the family and solid all-weather capability. Depending on the model, fuel efficiency, engine performance, and exterior styling might be added bonuses. Chevrolet is definitely aiming for all of the above with the 2018 Traverse RS, the latest SUV to emerge from the GM stable.
“The 2018 Traverse offers a full product lineup positioned to effectively compete across the segment,” said Steve Majoros, Chevrolet Marketing Director for Cars and Crossovers.
Standpoints & Styling
What Majoros is saying from a business standpoint makes sense. SUVs are strong sellers and having variety never hurts when it comes to attracting new or retaining existing customers. Majoros says the Traverse lineup is modeled in such a way that buyers are able to find something that suits their needs. And in recent times, that demand has really shifted toward the upper end of the spectrum, where the Traverse RS will live.
“By offering customers more choice with higher-end entries like the RS, which has a more street-inspired look, and top-of-the-line High Country, Chevrolet now offers a comfortable and connected Traverse for every lifestyle,” he explained.
The easiest way to spot the Traverse RS is simply by how it looks. Unique styling elements include a black grille, black window trim, black roof rails, black bowtie emblems, and 20-inch aluminum wheels with a Dark Android finish.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Features & Performance
The 2018 Chevy Traverse RS is ideal for those who need to haul the family around but want a little more excitement while doing so. Yes, there is the practical stuff: it has everything one would expect in an SUV or a crossover, including a host of enhanced safety and connectivity features, heated seats, remote start, and lots of cargo room. To the latter, Chevy says it’s best-in-class at 98.2 cubic feet.
Regarding the excitement factor, Chevy has packed a turbocharged engine under the hood that delivers 257 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque. Chevy says 90 percent of that peak torque is available at only 2,100 rpm, meaning when you hit the gas it goes. A nine-speed automatic transmission is matched with the engine for an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20/26 mpg city/highway.
OnStar 4G LTE and an available built-in Wi-Fi hotspot lead the list of connectivity features while Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Park Assist are among the most useful safety features. Other niceties include tri-zone automatic climate control, power liftgate, and a Bose 10-speaker audio system.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Chevy Traverse RS is available now and starts at $43,095.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Photos & Source: Chevrolet.

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Letter From The UK: Travelling In Great Britain

Letter From The UK: Travelling In Great Britain
One of the few benefits of living in the UK is that, being a relatively small island nation, nothing is that far away. At a push, a healthy alert driver could go end to end in well under twenty-four hours. This means our diverse and varied countryside, regions, historic towns, and teeming cities are pretty much accessible to all. If you like to travel and see places and things, then it’s all here in a neat package tied up with string.
God’s Country
The UK contrasts hugely with the USA. This writer is regularly astonished by the sights and sounds of inland America. Watching news or movies and seeing empty highways winding through deep, dark forests or running straight as an arrow across wide open plains is awesome. We, with our tiny lanes and byways, can barely comprehend the sheer vastness of the American continent.
We hear tales of American families who drive many, many miles just to get to a McDonald’s. I can walk to mine. Also a Costa, a Burger King, and an Asda/Walmart. That’s the difference between our two nations; but one thing that we can certainly agree on is that it is always best to go on our travels in a good car. For me that means Subaru.
Fear Of European Travel?
As you’ve read often in my Letters, the UK is leaving the European Union and it is all getting very fractious and, frankly, a bit stupid. One alleged “expert” says that we Brits are these days choosing to take our vacations (or “staycations” as they insist on calling them) in the UK because we fear the consequences of Brexit when it comes to visiting Europe.
This is of course arrant nonsense and demonstrates quite clearly how people will say anything to cause division and fear over what is essentially merely a political mess much like the USA is currently experiencing. Politicians eh? Can’t live with them; can’t put them all on a one-way rocket to Mars.
History shows that – Shock! – well before the EU existed, Britons took holidays in Europe. How can it be any different? This is what happens when the lunatics take over the asylum. How happy we would be if politicians and their mouthpieces just left us all alone.
Automoblog Feature Columnist Geoff Maxted on a scenic drive through the British countryside. Those in the United States should consider traveling abroad more often. A May 2017 study by NBC News found that traveling abroad can enhance creativity and lower the risk of depression. Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.
To Cornwall In An Outback
But enough of all this grumbling; let’s go on a road trip.
Cornwall is the nearest British county to America. Stand on the lofty mainland eminence of Land’s End and the next stop is the USA. Like many regions, Cornwall has its own identity. It even has its own language that just a few years ago was remembered and spoken by just a few, but is now being learned and spoken by new generations. There is even a band of enthusiasts working for an independent Cornwall. This would be like Florida ceding from the Union.
It is a beautiful county with mixed countryside from the lush green of the South to the rugged moorlands of the North. Surfing is a way of life with Fistral beach at Newquay being the centre of the universe as far as UK surfers are concerned. The Outback below is pictured there.
As an example of UK travel, from my home I can reach Cornwall in under three hours yet the weather is generally milder, and the renowned light beloved of artists and photographers alike is clear and bright, like a child’s eyes. It is a place to relax and unwind; I know, I used to live there.
About The Outback
Subaru offers a small range of cars and I like all of them. The Outback as driven here has a punchy and strong 2.5-liter flat-four “Boxer” petrol engine. It’s a big and roomy four-wheel drive car and very comfortable on the road. It eats long distances, driving through a “Lineartronic” CVT gearbox with ideal ratios for big journeys.
Our car was fitted with Subaru’s Eyesight safety technology and let me tell you it works! We have our fair share of idiots on the road too. The car has all the latest safety technology and all the usual infotainment suspects but, unlike some manufacturers, Subaru does not make a big deal out of it. The dashboard is plain, almost austere, but the seats are big and there’s plenty of family space. This car is all about the business of driving and travelling backed up by Subaru’s legendary symmetrical four-wheel drive.
Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.
In Padstow
And talking of legends: The scenic coastal town of Padstow, nestling on the banks of the River Camel tidal estuary, is the base for the now global enterprise that is Chef Rick Stein. This is the place he established his first restaurant, still thriving, and where his quayside premises serve that most traditional of British meals, fish and chips.
Often embellished with brown vinegar and salt (honest, it works) this is the traditional British take away meal. When push comes to shove you can keep your oriental cuisine or meat patties in a bun and feed me this. Armies march on this stuff and Rick Stein’s is just about as good as it gets.
So remember: The UK is still worth a visit but instead of going to our capital city London, currently run by a buffoon and where you will pay a king’s ransom for a hotel room, why not instead tour around the country. Car hire is reasonably inexpensive and, getting back to my original point, nowhere is very far away. When all is said and done and despite the best efforts of successive governments, the UK remains a great country. Best seen from a Subaru.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite
Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.
From NBC News: 5 Scientifically Proven Health Benefits of Traveling Abroad.

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New Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Promises More Comfort, Safety & Work-Friendly Features

New Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Promises More Comfort, Safety & Work-Friendly Features Sometimes, work vans and transport vehicles have a reputation for being bare-bones at best. Recently, we took the Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van for an extensive test drive. We liked the van well enough but thought it could use a few more basic features. Mercedes-Benz recently revealed the new Sprinter and addressed those concerns by promising “comfort and safety features at a passenger car level.” When it hits the market, the new Sprinter will offer more than 1,700 different configurations worldwide – surely enough to distinguish Mercedes-Benz from the rest of this segment.
“The Sprinter continues to embody the traditional attributes that have made it so successful worldwide since its market launch – flexibility, robustness, and economy,” said Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. “This makes it the first end-to-end system solution for commercial fleets, both for Mercedes-Benz Vans and for the entire industry.”
Connect & Manage
According to Mercedes-Benz, the new Sprinter will provide “maximum cost-effectiveness thanks to lower total operating costs and customer-oriented features.” One such feature is a networked service called Mercedes PRO Connect, said to help with the logistical challenges and transport requirements fleet managers face, regardless of how many vehicles they oversee. Mercedes PRO links the fleet manager with each vehicle and driver so they can better manage assignments and vital vehicle information like location, fuel level or maintenance intervals.
“Mercedes PRO Connect professionalizes our customers in terms of efficient fleet management, improved navigation, efficient analysis of driving style, digitalized recording, and remote vehicle operations,” reads a statement from the automaker.
Photo: MBUSA.
Flexibility & Features
With the aforementioned 1,700 configurations, Mercedes-Benz is hoping customers can find the right Sprinter for their daily needs. Of the examples they give: couriers on last mile deliveries, transportation of goods over long distances, and technicians who may keep parts stocked on the van for service calls. The new Sprinter can also be put to work as a camper van, bus, or airport shuttle, and can be used as an ambulance or fire rescue vehicle.
Although they don’t mention the comfort features specifically, Mercedes-Benz says the new Sprinter comes with a host of safety and convenience items, including a self-cleaning rear-view camera, a 360-degree view parking camera, and a rain sensor with an integrated Wet Wiper system for optimum visibility. Mercedes-Benz, although a bit vague, says the new Sprinter will have other “detailed improvements with a major effect on the cab as a workplace.”
Photo: MBUSA.
Pricing & Availability
The new Sprinter will arrive by the end of this year in the U.S. market, with the final U.S. product range and available configurations to be announced. The electrified eSprinter is expected to hit the U.S. in 2019. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter first launched in Europe in 1995 and arrived in the United States in 2001.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Gallery

Photos & Source: MBUSA.

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