Audi Driving Experience Opens To All Enthusiasts

Audi Driving Experience Opens To All Enthusiasts

Audi, like a number of other car companies, is doing that “driving academy,” “driving weekend,” “track experience” thing where they let you flog their cars and, hopefully, by the end of it, make a few sales. In Audi’s case, their deal is called The Audi Driving Experience and it takes place at the Circuit of The Americas, or COTA, in Austin, Texas. My initial response upon hearing this can be summed up in six words: SEND ME, SEND ME, SEND ME!!!
Come One, Come All
Look, I am not that much of a track-tard – to use the current parlance of those who spend every waking minute either at, going to, or prepping to get whatever car they can afford to the track. Then again, I am not above wanting to drive the bejeebers out of someone else’s car on a track, especially in a relatively consequence-free way. Plus, I am almost sure we have corporate insurance here at Automoblog for something like this.
The all-new driving experience that Audi of America put together in collaboration with the Circuit of The Americas is specifically for customers and fans. To me, that kinda reads like you don’t have to have already bought an Audi, just convince them that you’re considering one. Audi says their Driving Experience is open year-round to drivers of all experience levels. Meaning you can be a complete stoop of a driver with fists of ham and fingers of butter and a small, yet burgeoning career as an automotive “journalist” and still be invited (nudge-nudge, wink-wink, hint-hint).
The program is more than just turning you loose on the track by yourself though. It includes hands-on coaching from professional instructors, dynamic car control exercises, proper cornering techniques, and high speed lead and follow exercises on the track. All of which sound very enlightening and fun.
Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
Healthy Stable


And the cars, you ask? What kind of Audis do you get to drive? Oh, that’s where things go from the ridiculous to the sublime. The vehicles featured include the Audi Q7 (yes, that would be the huge, Shamu-like SUV thing) the all-new RS 3 (interesting, yes) the Audi TT RS (potentially more interesting still) and the R8 V10 plus (which is where I stop typing and start calling the purchasing and accounting department at One Automoblog Towers and beg them for the cash).
The nuts and bolts break down into four distinct track activities: The Audi Sport dynamic experience, Audi Sport track initiation experience, Audi Sport R8 track initiation experience, and the Audi Sport R8 pro track experience. Each offer unique programs that span from half-day, one day or two day experiences, and each program comprises a classroom session followed by “a hands-on interactive experience.” Or, to put it in terms you gearhead track-tards will grok: You get to go drive!
Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
Dynamic & Track Initiation Experience
The Audi Sport dynamic experience gets you guidance from a professional instructor, with an introduction to understanding and working the key principles of performance driving. The driving seems to take place in the paddock and features the Audi RS 3 and the TT RS.
The Audi Sport track initiation experience, which I sincerely hope does not involve goats or the full moon, is a half-day program where you get to master vehicle control and handling in the TT RS, RS 3, and the R8 V10 plus. Audi says this is through “dynamic exercises that demand a high level of coordination utilizing both the exercise paddocks and the circuit.” All I know is that I heard the phrase “and the circuit,” and stopped worrying about the particulars.
The next step up is the Audi Sport R8 track initiation experience (also sans goats et al (I hope)). This is a one-day program that gets you behind the wheel of the R8 V10 plus to “discover its full potential on the Formula 1 Circuit.” To me, that sounds like “have fun over-cooking it.” The Audi Sport R8 track initiation experience revolves around race course sector training. This allows you to get acquainted with all of the race track’s particular features before trying to string an entire, hopefully flawless, lap together.
Photo: Audi of America, Inc.


R8 Pro Track Experience
And finally, we arrive at the summit, the Audi Sport R8 pro track experience. First you have to complete the Audi Sport R8 track initiation experience, carry a burning brazier with your forearms, and save Ra’s Al Ghul, but then you go through training with the professional instructors for two days behind the wheel of the R8 V10 plus. And, you know, to me, that sounds like a pretty good bargain, all in all.  Audi says this is “designed for true driving enthusiasts,” to which I respond with a resounding “duh!”
And, of course, there are extras. In addition to the pro instructors, you also get to enjoy dedicated suites and garages along with catered meals. All this and a free lunch too!? What’s not to like?
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: Audi of America, Inc.



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Automoblog Book Garage: The Art of Mopar

Automoblog Book Garage: The Art of Mopar


“There’s an adage in Detroit,” writes Tom Glatch on page 44 in The Art of Mopar. “You can sell an old man a young man’s car but you can never sell a young man an old man’s car.”
Glatch describes how in 1966, Dodge was an old man’s marquee, quickly sinking in a sea of youthful baby boomers. Although a vibrant spokeswoman, a brilliant designer, and a powerhouse car would later turn the tides. Many enthusiasts will know the latter; Mopar muscle aficionados will likely know all three. And that Detroit adage has yet to leave town.
In This Corner . . .
Page 171 documents the words of Car and Driver in 1970 that proposed Chrysler never did anything first (unless we are counting minivans but that’s a conversation for another day). However, Glatch insists Car and Driver missed both the Dodge Charger and Plymouth Road Runner, who Ford and General Motors seemed to overlook as well; neither the blue oval nor the bowtie breathed an answer to these Mopar machines. Although the honorable automotive publication did get one thing right about Chrysler in their 1970 assessment: “it tries to make up for being late by jumping into said spot harder than anybody else.”
The reason why that’s still true? 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon.
And we will leave it at that.
Fly Like An Eagle (Or Bee)
Detailed sidebars decorate the pages of Art of Mopar, highlighting the features, options, pricing, and performance specs of Chrysler’s muscle cars at the time. Interesting stories are told along the way, like how a carving on a kitchen table inspired the most famous Mopar logo ever. Indeed, The Art of Mopar is one of our all-time favorites to appear in this Book Garage series. To paint the picture a little more clearly, since the book arrived in the mail, we have yet to put it down. Our Detroit office is filled with the psychedelic sounds of the Steve Miller Band, and I’m fantasizing about a Dodge Charger Daytona right this moment instead of focusing on my work.
The Art of Mopar reinforces why we continue to love things with four tires, three pedals, two brass balls, and one big flippin’ engine. To the two Toms that worked on this book, hats off to you good sirs.
1968 Dodge Charger 426 Hemi. Photo: Tom Loeser.
Author & Photographer
Since 1983, Glatch has contributed hundreds of stories and photographs to major collector, Corvette, Mustang, muscle car, and Mopar magazines. Glatch grew up during the muscle car era, later owning a 1970 Plymouth Duster 340. He and his wife Kelly have contributed photographs for others in the Motorbooks family. When not pursuing old muscle cars, he works for a Fortune 500 corporation as a data and systems analyst and developer.
Tom Loeser has worked as a Firefighter for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (now known as CAL Fire), as a graphic designer and photographer, and as chief photographer for the Long Beach Grand Prix. He is now a full-time book photographer and has worked on a range of Motorbooks’ titles.
The Art of Mopar: Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth Muscle Cars is available through Amazon and Motorbooks.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
The Art of Mopar Gallery











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2018 Honda HR-V Expected To Lead Segment

2018 Honda HR-V Expected To Lead Segment

For all of you out there patiently waiting, the time is nigh. The new Honda HR-V cute-ute/SUV/crossover is sitting on dealer lots and showrooms as you read this. Technically speaking, the HR-V is a subcompact SUV and the sales leader in that segment. The 2018 version gets new colors and cooler wheels and continues Honda’s overall direction in giving everything they make “coupe-like” styling.
Slow & Steady
Honda sells a lot of these HR-V things. They are, in many ways, the go-to choice for urban dwellers that want an SUV-like vehicle, but have to live in the crowded confines of a city and don’t want to blow half their monthly take-home on gas.
And, let’s face facts here, not only does the Honda HR-V hit all those targets dead on, but the price point is pretty nice as well. The bottom line is a rather wallet pleasing $19,570. All those add up to make the HR-V America’s best-selling subcompact SUV as of April. The little guy has allowed Honda to post seven consecutive months of year-over-year sales gains. This is why Honda exists: to make good, reliable cars, crank them out like Coke cans, and sell them by the millions.
So what does the 2018 Honda HR-V bring to the party that’s new? Basically some cosmetic stuff, wheels and paint choices, and some new trim bits here and there. Mechanically it’s an evolution on the platform that has come before – but that’s what Honda does: slow, steady, measured engineering growth and product development.
Safety & Design
Naturally, the 2018 Honda HR-V is waist-deep in standard safety and driver-assistance goodies. Anti-lock brakes, of course, along with Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist. There is also this gizmo called Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) which is an electronic stability control system. There’s also a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Shoppers can pick a new color, Aegean Blue Metallic, which is a rather pleasing shade, but they also get refreshed wheel designs with black-painted inserts. Honda says this enhances the HR-V’s “sporty personality,” and sure, whatever.
The interior is still just as accommodating and versatile as before, thanks to Honda’s second-row Magic Seat (wait, wasn’t “Magic Seat” Cal Naughton Jr.’s nickname in Talladega Nights?) that has four different modes for multiple seating and cargo-hauling configurations. The HR-V has 100.1 cu.-ft. of passenger space and 58.8 cu.-ft. of cargo volume with the second row seats folded down, very close to what mid-sized SUVs provide.





Performance & Efficiency
The 2018 Honda HR-V is motivated by a 1.8-liter SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with an i-VTEC valvetrain. Peak power is 141 horses and 127 lb-ft. of torque. The HR-V is, of course, available with Honda’s Real Time AWD. This provides better all-weather handling and control. A CVT – that creepy continuously-variable transmission thing-o – is available on all HR-V models. However, if you want a 6-speed manual, you can get that on the LX and EX trims with 2WD.
Fuel economy? You’re worried about that? C’mon, this is a Honda. You look up “fuel economy” in a Japanese dictionary and it shows you a picture of a Honda Accord. You think the HR-V is going to get mileage like a Hummer? The EPA figures are an impressive 28 city, 34 highway, and 31 combined. That’s for the CVT-equipped, two-wheel drive models. The all-wheel drive variants get 27 city, 31 highway, and 29 combined. The 6-speed manual 2WD drops to 25 city, 33 highway, and 28 combined.
Photo: Honda North America.
Pricing & Trim Levels
So, really, what’s not to like in the new for 2018 Honda HR-V? Well, the styling might not be to everyone’s taste, but that is, as always, a personal matter. From a standpoint of ticking all the boxes and getting a vehicle that suits your needs, the HR-V seems to be a solid choice. Then again, I think Honda is the Japanese word that translates as “solid choice.” No, wait, Honda is the last name of the guy that started the company. Still, a solid choice they are.
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.
2018 Honda HR-V Pricing and EPA Data
Trim
Drivetrain
MSRP
EPA MPG Ratings(city/highway/combined)
LX
2WD w/ 6MT
$19,570
25/33/28
LX
2WD w/ CVT
$20,370
28/34/31
LX
AWD w/ CVT
$21,670
27/31/29
EX
2WD w/ 6MT
$21,620
25/33/28
EX
2WD w/ CVT
$22,420
28/34/31
EX
AWD w/ CVT
$23,720
27/31/29
EX-L w/ Navi
2WD w/ CVT
$25,040
28/34/31
EX-L w/ Navi
AWD w/ CVT
$26,340
27/31/29
Photos & Source: Honda North America.



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Vanquish Vision Concept: Aston Martin Goes Mid-Engine!

Vanquish Vision Concept: Aston Martin Goes Mid-Engine! Vanquish Vision Concept is a preview of Aston Martin’s first series production mid-engine supercar.
The decision takes Aston Martin into a mid-engine sector previously defined by other key competitors. 
Aston Martin has been cranking out the concept cars, er, renderings lately. In this instance, we’re talking about the Vanquish Vision Concept. In a lot of ways, it’s both remarkable and unremarkable. Low, sleek, dripping with performance and desirability; it’s everything a concept show car is expected to be. But then you think about it and realize the engine sits in the middle. A mid-engine Aston Martin? Aston doesn’t make mid-engine cars.
Well, they do now.
The Heartland of Luxury Sports Cars
The Vanquish Vision Concept will be one of four mid-engine cars from Aston Martin: The Valkyrie, Valkyrie AMR Pro, AM-RB 003, and the Vanquish Vision (the letter V is flying around Gaydon). Until now, Aston Martins have been very traditional, very British performance cars, with the engine in the front, just the way the Queen and country prefer it. Performance-wise, however, having the lump in the middle is better, so Aston Martin is finally jumping on that old bandwagon and will now start making mid-engine cars.
“Firstly, what a pleasure to revive the Vanquish name. Synonymous with our series production flagships, it felt entirely appropriate to attach it to such a significant car. The Vanquish Vision Concept marks another pivotal moment in Aston Martin’s history, and another critical step in delivering the Second Century Plan,” explained Andy Palmer, Aston Martin Lagonda President and Group CEO. “Our first series production rear mid-engined supercar will be a transformational moment for the brand, for it is the car that will propel Aston Martin into a sector of the market traditionally seen as the heartland of luxury sports cars.”
Vanquish Vision Concept. Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.
Related: How Sir David Brown built a car for the “discerning owner driver.”
Less Negative Space
You can think of the Vanquish Vision Concept as sort of a baby Valkyrie, in much the same way a Ferrari 488 is a baby LaFerrari. The latest Vanquish is not as full-blown crazy as the Valkyrie. For example, the Vanquish gets a new V6 plant sitting amidships versus the V12 hybrid monster found in the Valkyrie. (Although that V6 is a non-hybrid, non-turbo version of the same engine found in the AM-RB 003).
So you can see the range of mid-engine Astons as being a spectrum of choice, from the vanilla of the “plain” V6 in the Vanquish, through the spiced up turbo-hybrid of the AM-RB 003, to the full zoot, straitjacket bent of the Valkyrie.
“The Vanquish Vision Concept has a more seductive and less technical appearance than the Aston Martin Valkyrie and AM-RB 003, but it’s still extreme in terms of visual gestures,” said Miles Nurnberger, Aston Martin Director of Design. “For example, it has a very distinctive clamshell front fender, with openings so you can see through onto the tire. There’s less of the negative space that defines the look of the Aston Martin Valkyrie and AM-RB 003. It’s a prettier car, and purposely so, as it’s been designed to thrive in a less extreme performance envelope.”
Sounds like Aston Martin has all the bases covered.
Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.
Glued & Screwed
Technical info is rather lacking at this point, sadly. The only gearhead stuff Aston Martin mentions is how the chassis of the Vanquish Vision Concept is a custom-made, bonded aluminum affair, developed by mid-engine specialist and Aston Martin Chief Technical Officer, Max Szwaj. Aston Martin employed a more state-of-the-art, all-carbon fiber construction for both the Valkyrie and AM-RB 003, but went with a more established “glued and screwed” bonded aluminum approach for the Vanquish Vision Concept.
No outright reason is given but, to my experience, it comes down to cost. Carbon fiber is expensive to work with and very expensive to repair (assuming you can repair it). Meaning that insurance costs for a car with a chassis made of metal will be lower. Aston Martin has worked with aluminum for chassis bits and sub-structures in the recent past. For example, the DBS Superleggera utilizes the latest generation of the lightweight bonded aluminum structures first seen on Aston’s DB11. Much like Lotus’ work in the same arena, it shows how a semi-high tech, not exactly bleeding edge approach is still a good path to follow.
“Although it takes Aston Martin into new territory, it does so with the benefit of hard-won knowledge, ground-breaking ideas, and an uncompromising mindset,” Szwaj said. “The full engineering story of this car is yet to be told, but what you see here should tell you this car will not only compete at the highest level, but it will do so in a manner and style unique to Aston Martin.”
Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.
Pricing & Production
The Aston Martin Vanquish Vision Concept is scheduled for production in 2022. Although, you know what they say about schedules, especially when it comes to concept cars. No word yet on price. It will likely be less than its other mid-engine stablemates but still more than your house.
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. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz. 
Aston Martin Vanquish Vision Concept Gallery














Photos & Source: Aston Martin The Americas.



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Easy Winter-Proof Part Upgrades for Leased Vehicles with eBay Motors

Easy Winter-Proof Part Upgrades for Leased Vehicles with eBay Motors Michigan summers are really something this time of year. It’s never too hot, the days are long, and it’s easy to get outside and participate in a variety of fun activities. Although recently, the air has been a bit crisp in the evening. In the great Wolverine State, that means fall is on the way and winter is not far behind.
Yes, winter can be a very pretty time of year. However, all that snow, slush, sand, and salt ultimately ends up in one place: the interior of our vehicles. One question we are often asked as car experts is how to prevent such things. How do we preserve a vehicle’s interior when it’s impossible to keep winter outside, where it belongs? The answer is simple and affordable, and this year, eBay Motors is helping us prepare for winter well ahead of time.
Our company vehicle is a 2016 Fiat 500X crossover, a small and efficient automobile perfect for navigating the Detroit metro area. We are completely satisfied with the vehicle, except the stock cloth floor mats. Last winter, when the snow we inevitably tracked into the vehicle melted, it soaked right through the mats. After a few days, a pungent order was noticeable.
It’s not just the Fiat cloth mats either. We are not fans of most stock cloth floor mats, regardless of the manufacturer. After last winter, we resolved to get something better. Thankfully, eBay Motors has a great selection of weatherproof accessories. We landed on a set of Gledring All-Weather Rubber Floor Mats.
“Thank you to eBay Motors for sponsoring this post and helping me find the perfect parts and accessories This post was written by me through an activation with HireInfluence on behalf of eBay Motors. Although I received compensation for participating in the campaign, all thoughts and opinions are my own.” ~ Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 
Photo: Danielle Flint for Automoblog.net.
When it comes to upgrading a vehicle with valuable parts and accessories, it’s not necessary to go big. Oftentimes, when we think of aftermarket upgrades, we think about turbos and superchargers and suspension gizmos. The truth is, all-weather floor mats are one of the best, most affordable upgrades any car owner can buy. The Gledring all-weather mats for our 500X were $74.99, a good deal considering how much they will protect our interior. And, eBay Motors isn’t just a great place to find aftermarket parts and accessories. They also sell new. In fact, 81 percent of items sold on eBay are new, while 88 percent of items can be purchased with the buy-it-now feature, no bidding necessary.
A high-quality set of all-weather rubber mats is an essential aftermarket upgrade, regardless of where your home is. I have talked a lot about winter climates, but even in sunny states, a set of Gledring all-weather rubber mats will provide value.
Notice how much more robust the Gledring mats from eBay Motors are (right) versus the stock mats that came with our 2016 Fiat 500X. Photo: Danielle Flint for Automoblog.net.
For outdoor enthusiasts or beach buffs, the Gledring mats will easily catch dirt, dust, and sand. Unlike cloth mats, the Gledring all-weather mats are much easier to shake out and clean. With cloth floor mats, sand and dirt can get trapped to the point where a vacuum is needed to fully remove all the debris. Despite their high power, vacuums at car washes are often unable to get every last pebble out of a cloth floor mat.
During the winter, the Gledring rubber mats will prevent melted snow from soaking through. Any salt or sand from the snow will remove easily as well, since the rubber surface is smooth. Although the Gledring mats from eBay Motors offer solid weather protection, they have another distinct benefit. We had no sooner put them in to find ourselves cleaning up a coffee splatter and a spilled protein shake (yeah, don’t ask). Those of us who are clumsy with a coffee cup or shaker bottle will greatly appreciate a set of Gledring all-weather mats.
Installation was a cakewalk. It took us only a few minutes, although there are two notes to consider. The Gledring all-weather mats are bundled together with plastic tabs. We saved the tabs just in case – not that we foresee ever removing the mats from our 500X, but the plastic tabs will keep them together and make for easy storage. When placing the Gledring mats inside, make sure they are good and snapped down; we don’t want anyone to end up with a mat obstructing the brake and gas pedals.





Our Fiat 500X is leased, which means there are not many upgrades we can do to it. A leased vehicle must be returned to the dealership at the end, and usually, there is very little room in a leasing contract to modify the vehicle. All-weather floor mats, however, are fair game. Another affordable interior upgrade we would consider is this rear cargo-area liner. For car-leasers that still like to tinker under the hood, we would recommend any number of Mobil 1 synthetic oils. eBay Motors has a good selection of oils and lubricants to ensure optimum engine performance. Parts and accessories like these provide additional protection without violating the terms of the lease.
Always make sure the all-weather mats are secured to the floor of the vehicle. Line them up with the tabs sticking out of the floor and give them a good, solid press. This will minimize the chances of them bunching up unintentionally near the gas and brake pedals. Photo: Danielle Flint for Automoblog.net.
eBay’s large selection makes it easy to make any of these upgrades happen and find the exact one you’re looking for. Further, eBay Motors is fast easy and convenient. eBay’s recent summer roll out of Guaranteed Delivery ensures delivery to U.S. customers in three days or less on more than 20 million eligible items. Many of these items will ship for free, and some products will be delivered even faster – one or two days, guaranteed. eBay also offers trusted, protection programs like the Assurant Protection Program, to put you at ease when purchasing parts.
Our 2016 Fiat 500X is always on the road and the interior wear is noticeable. One of our staff members often wears heels when she drives our vehicle; high heels can wear through cloth mats in a hurry. We believe the Gledring all-weather mats from eBay Motors will hold up much better over time when exposed to the pointed heel of her shoes. Photo: Danielle Flint for Automoblog.net.



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Letter From The UK: Mini Seasons Ago

Letter From The UK: Mini Seasons Ago


After the tragedy of the Second World War many things changed. It was as if a global decision had been made to change the attitude of living in the past and instead, embrace a brave new world. So it was that in Britain; the crooners and balladeers of the early 1950’s gave way to pioneer rock and roll stars, and the boss at the antiquated British Motor Corporation demanded Great Britain should have its own ‘miniature’ to rival the ‘bubble’ car from Germany.
The Mini Is Born
Thus it came to pass that a chap called Alec Issigonis stood up in the meeting (I’m surmising here) and said, “I say you chaps; what if we turn the engine around sideways?” In 1959, sales of the diminutive Austin/Morris Mini began. It was an instant success. Never before or since has a car so grabbed the attention of the public.
The last time I bothered to look it up, there were just over 8,000 original Minis still driving around the ruined roads of Britain. The beloved diminutive motor continues to cast its spell fifty and more years on (as do the ‘Swinging Sixties’ in which the car played such an iconic role) but the latest versions, great though they are in many ways, can’t match the simplicity and sheer joy of the original.
Open the hood of the latest model and you will be none the wiser. Open the hood of an original Mini and you’ll find a completely basic, BMC ‘A’ Series engine mounted transversely. Anyone can fix it and anyone did.
As with everything in life, we have to move forward but not necessarily when that which follows isn’t as good as that which has passed. This is why the ancient wrinkly rock bands of the sixties and seventies can still pull huge audiences despite being delivered to the venue in private ambulances.
Photo: BMW Group.
My Generation
Just when we thought the Mini had finally faded into history, along came a German brand called BMW who bought the name and resurrected the vehicle, but it is simply not the same. Mini has become something different to a new generation.
The original cars continue to be celebrated in annual events like the Riviera Run (that’s the UK’s Cornish Riviera by the way, like the French Riviera only without the glamour, international fame, cuisine, film festivals, and glorious weather) but sadly every year, like old soldiers on memorial days, there are fewer and fewer. One day none will turn up and another legend will truly fade into history like anything else long forgotten.
There is a certain Teutonic thoroughness to the BMW Mini at odds with the uncertain beginnings from way back in the 1950’s. Build quality is certainly way better but merely keeping a label and a center round dashboard binnacle doesn’t instill within the car that sense of fun, excitement, and adventure the original generated. Along with the miniskirt, certain natural products and unnatural chemicals and music that has never been transcended, it sums up a youth generation who chose to wear flowers in their hair.
Photo: BMW Group.

Good Old Days
The Mini of today might, in many ways, be a technological marvel but when all is said and done, it is just another generic product, built in multiple variants, to satisfy a section of the automobile market. It may sell well but it is not a proper Mini. For a start, the new car is, by comparison, huge. Back in the olden days of yore, if you wanted a ‘big’ Mini, you bought an Austin Maxi and the selection of that name sums up the total amount of thought that went into the car. Also with a transverse engine, the Maxi was so awful it rightfully earned the sobriquet ‘Land Crab.’
To most people, history is just old stuff that has already happened. They probably don’t give a thought to that little gem of motoring mastery, that rally winner, that little beginner’s love nest that was at the heart of a much safer and more vibrant society. For the most part, we should look forward to the future but there are some things that can never be improved upon. Groovy baby.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite
Photo: BMW Group.



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Ford Says 2018 F-150 Has Segment-Leading Attributes, Advanced Powertrains

Ford Says 2018 F-150 Has Segment-Leading Attributes, Advanced Powertrains

Lately, Ford has been dumping tons of cash and engineering resources into their truck engines and transmissions and such. All of that is good, in and of itself, but it also makes tons of sense since the Ford F-150 is the bread and butter vehicle for the Dearborn-based outfit.
Ford – and General Motors and Ram – make a lot of big trucks. There is a lot of need for them across America, what with the contractors and farmers and other blue-collar types. Not to mention homeowners, since you can only haul certain types of stuff within the confines of a minivan.
If you want to get really reductionist about it, you could say that big pickups are what American car companies do best.
Best One Yet?
Ford’s new for 2018 F-150 will carry on what the company has been doing, pickup truck-wise, since the end of World War II. The 2018 F-150 aims to be tougher, smarter, and more capable than ever, according to Ford. And, if you listen to Ford, it all comes down to, or at the very least, starts with the running gear. The 2018 trucks will have the most advanced powertrain lineup yet and deliver best-in-class towing, payload, and efficiency. Mileage, you ask? An EPA-estimated 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 combined with the second-gen 2.7-liter EcoBoost. Towing and payload? Have no fear! The F-150 gets best-in-class towing by being able to drag around 13,200 lbs. with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost and haul 3,270 pounds of payload with the 5.0-liter V8.
Ford says the upcoming F-150 will have “bold new styling,” but they always say that, and trucks always look like trucks anyway, don’t they? Also, Ford is committed to its use of aluminum, or as they put it “high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy.” There will also be a slew of advanced safety technologies, a trick 10-speed automatic transmission and, of course, the F-150’s engine lineup. Speaking of, here’s the nitty-gritty on all the mills FoMoCo has on offer.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Power & Performance
First, there’s the second-gen 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 mated to that SelectShift 10-speed automatic transmission. This drivetrain will get you the aforementioned best-in-class fuel economy with advanced dual port direct injection that delivers a 25 lb-ft. increase in torque. Next up is the normally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, also with advanced dual port and direct injection, giving you 10 more ponies and an additional 13 lb-ft. of torque. The mill also features spray-on bore liner technology, which it shares with the Shelby GT350 Mustang. The 5.0-liter V8 is paired with the 10-speed SelectShift automatic and also boasts the aforementioned best-in-class payload capacity of 3,270 pounds.
If you want to tow something – say an enclosed trailer with a couple of sweet Alfa Romeos down to the track – the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 is the drivetrain for you. Its 13,200 lbs. of towing capacity is the equivalent of about eight Alfas, since those things have the density of bubble wrap. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 cranks out 470 lb-ft. of torque (in case you’re worried about power) which allows it to top all diesel and gasoline-powered competitors, including V8s with nearly twice its displacement. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 puts out 375 horsepower and, in concert with the torque rating, make it the best F-150 engine for hauling heavy trailers.
The all-new 3.3-liter V6 plant is more efficient too, putting out more torque when compared to the previously standard 3.5-liter V6. The now standard 3.3-liter nets you a 5 percent power-to-weight ratio improvement over the 2014 F-150, and also gets you better fuel economy and performance. Finally, there is an all-new 3.0-liter Power Stroke diesel V6 that was designed, engineered, and tested in-house. Unsurprisingly, it’s paired with the 10-speed SelectShift automatic and will be the first diesel engine for the F-150.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.


Technology, Connectivity & Safety
Even if this is a truck, it is 2018, so there’s a gang of tech goodies along for the ride. There’s adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, for one. The system uses radar and camera tech to watch traffic and maintain a set distance between vehicles. Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection is offered to help you avoid, or at least alleviate collisions with other vehicles and pedestrians – because you weren’t paying attention, were you?
An embedded 4G LTE modem with a Wi-Fi hotspot connects up to 10 mobile devices at one time. There’s a new B&O PLAY audio system for when you’re listening to your songs. I will not comment on your selection of music, but if you call anything written after, oh, the 1980 as “Country and Western Music,” you and I are going to have a scrap on our hands.
The available Pro Trailer Backup Assist gizmo allows you to steer a trailer “instinctively” via a center console-mounted dial. A Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage technology is also available. BLIS, as Ford calls it, uses radar sensors in the taillamps to monitor areas that may not be visible around the truck and trailer, again to avoid the pain and humiliation of backing your boat, say, into piling or over your neighbor’s flower bed.
The 2018 Ford F-150 goes on sale this fall. Production is supported by the Dearborn Truck Plant in Michigan and the Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Missouri.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.



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The Joy of Daily Driving: A Sensory Experience Like None Other

The Joy of Daily Driving: A Sensory Experience Like None Other

Weekday driving on public roads is a chore. Some do it for a living, others only because they must. I do it for these reasons too, however, I also enjoy it a great deal. Sure, traffic sucks and I have many statistics (I won’t bore you with those) that support the fact I live in the worst traffic state in the country. That aside, I still find the task of driving pleasurable, and not strictly because I am often paid to do it.
Man Marries Machine
Nearly every time I am behind the wheel, I am struck with that “wow” moment: where I reflect in-depth about the engineering marvel I am in control of. Musings of exactly what is stirring beneath the hood infiltrate my thoughts. Imagery of the biological and mechanical connection between the driver and machine flash through my consciousness. Imagine a microscopic camera filming the synapses in my motor cortex. The imagery follows the neuronal pathway resembling a flow of electrons, from the brain to the foot, as the abstract impulse becomes the physical movement of pressing the accelerator.
The depiction transitions from the body to the pedal, then courses through the throttle cable where the reverie enters the throttle body, and surges toward the air induction only to be violently sucked back through a wide-open inlet gate, bounding around the intake manifold, before plunging into the combustion chamber by the onslaught of incoming air. Here time slows as thousands of volts of electricity are generated by the ignition coil; the charge is released at precisely the right moment, pulsing the current down the spark plug wires, emerging as a fiery blue arc, igniting the swirling mixture of atomized fuel and air, coalescing in the rapidly compressing space between the cylinder head and piston.
As the explosion forces the piston back down the cylinder, the visualization transfers through the rod and into the spinning crankshaft. The vision expands to encompass the entire orchestra of apparatuses functioning in concert with each other. The head, block, and castings all appear translucent as to highlight the rapid pulses of electricity darting into the combustion chambers, exemplifying the explosive nature of the internal combustion occurring in absolute harmonic balance.
But that’s just me.
Photo: Benjamin Caschera for Automoblog.net.
Concrete Concert
I’m not convinced the folks surrounding me on the freeway with their heads down, eyes affixed on some strangely glowing contrivance (occasionally glancing up to the road) are pondering the goings-on that propel us at speeds humanly impossible until just a few decades ago. This fairly recent achievement allows me to take pleasure in driving even the most mundane vehicles. The key to finding joy in the drudgery of slogging it out in stop-and-go traffic, is knowing when and where to cue this magnificent symphony. For example, the immense network of intertwined arterial superhighways are connected to a vascular network of surface streets. The connecting ramps between the two are a great place to crank the volume of this symphonic machine at your command (within reason of course), especially for less performance oriented autos, because these can be operated nearer their limits.
Not only are joining roadways often wonderfully sweeping, snaking banked passages of asphalt, but the limit of speed is frequently very low at entry. This allows one to satiate their carnal automotive appetite, accelerating from a school zone pace to freeway velocity, while navigating long sweeping banked curves. To rightly enter traffic at a prudent gait in an under-powered instrument of transportation, and maintain momentum, means routing the correct lines through an apex is critical. I find tremendous satisfaction in linking multiple lines through connecting chicanes; it is equally gratifying nailing a late apex on a decreasing radius bend, or a dual apex sweeper. After all, it would be hazardous to sluggishly coast around an on-ramp and attempt to merge into a maniacally flowing sea of steel at a snail’s pace.
Photo: Benjamin Caschera for Automoblog.net.


Symphony of Exhaust
Similar practices can bring fulfillment with the added power of a few hundred horses mated to an equally proportionate number of torques. The challenge becomes keeping the beast tame enough for municipal roadways, especially around the twisty bits, with the added exuberance of putting the hammer down at the end. Additionally, the dreaded metering lights become a “sensible” 0 to 60 test, thus proving a spirited powerplant is not only a practical employment of utility, but a safety feature as well.
It is not uncommon for these high horse and heavily torqued automobiles to reward the operator with a titillating auditory experience. When a vehicle accelerates energetically, the intake is opened and the engine begins gulping air, and the orchestral network of air induction tubing really begins to sing. A properly tuned motor can be thoroughly pleasing, inciting a guttural, almost primal sense of amusement. This visceral thrill can be pronounced by certain environments as well, namely, a tunnel. When within the confines of the closely surrounded byway, it is customary to slow to speed within the limitations permissible by law, perhaps coupled with an enthusiastic shift into a lower gear. The quaffing intake song reverberates off the walls, as the expelling exhaust gasses serenade all those within the tunnel. The rumbling explosions of the harmonized cylinders dancing down the avenue rounds out the mechanical ballad. As the sonnet reverberates, it echoes deep into the soul.





Powertrain Buffet
Having great amounts of power at your disposal really allows the physical reactions of varying drivetrains to become evident as well. For instance, a mighty rear-wheel drive vehicle will react to the application of throttle input by creating torsion; the greater the torque (rotational force) the more this torsion will twist the frame and create downforce on the front wheels, willing the chariot through a corner when properly applied. Too vigorous of a throttle input will break the rear tires free, resulting in oversteer, whipping the rear end around. Although sometimes downright fun, excessive oversteer should really be reserved for the track or the skid pad.
Front-wheel drive can react similarly when exiting a corner; the correct amount of torsion can feel as though it pulls the car toward the exit. Again, too much can have dire effects to the tune of understeer, sending an auto sliding in a straight line when you wish it to turn with the road. This is, admittedly, not as much fun as oversteer but it can be used to the advantage of the driver in the appropriate place, although not on public roadways.
Correspondingly, all-wheel drive can have characteristics of both, depending on how and when power is sent to the wheels. The type of all-wheel drive system can play a major role in how the vehicle reacts too. Some are mostly front driven, while others have a rear bias. A good arrangement will be dynamic and or selectable to achieve the results desired by the pilot. As with many things, variety is the spice of (automotive) life, and having the luxury of experiencing different drivetrains is a flavor I fervently seek out.


Imagination & Creation
Not only are cars wonderfully complex machines, they are an integral part of life easily taken for granted. Yes, commuting is generally a mundane experience, and sitting in traffic is never fun, but the modern automobile is not simply an appliance, it is an achievement; and when a keen eye is kept out for the appropriate opportunity, daily driving can be an oh so joyous occasion.
So the next time you are jammed in gridlock, just look at it like waiting in line for a thrill ride. You may be trapped in the realm of utter boredom for hours on end, but eventually you will be rewarded.
Benjamin Caschera is a car nut in every sense of the word. His eclectic writings range from rants on traffic and wrenching on $500 cars, to adulation of the finest classic and/or latest hyper cars. Follow and heckle him on Twitter and Instagram: @TheBoringCarGuy



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2018 Chevy Tahoe Custom Promises Capability, Safety, Value

2018 Chevy Tahoe Custom Promises Capability, Safety, Value

Those eye-balling a 2018 Chevy Tahoe will have another option to choose from. The new Tahoe Custom edition is an extension of the current LS trim package and, according to Chevrolet, provides “uncompromised capability and value.” The 2018 Chevy Tahoe Custom includes 18-inch painted aluminum wheels, all-season tires, remote start, a chrome-accented grille, and a host of available safety features.
Market Direction
“The Tahoe Custom is a response to strong customer demand for Tahoe, as well as the full-size SUV segment moving upmarket,” explained Sandor Piszar, Chevrolet Trucks Marketing Director. “In the past five years, the average transaction price for the segment has climbed, fueled by customer appetite for features like heated and cooled seats, adaptive cruise control, and a heads-up display. This created an unmet need in the marketplace for customers who want the cargo and towing capability of a full-size SUV to go camping, boating or off-roading but don’t necessarily want all of the option content offered on a Tahoe Premier.”
Cargo Capacity & Tech Capability
Those needing to haul additional cargo may appreciate the interior layout: Tahoe Custom’s third-row seat is gone for more room (54 cubic feet) behind the second row. Those wanting juice for the journey will find five USB ports and five power outlets — including a 110-volt three-prong outlet —  to support multiple devices. Other highlights include an 8-inch color touchscreen radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, 4G LTE connectivity with Wi-Fi hotspot (includes three-month/3G data trial), and a rear-vision camera.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Safety & Security
The 2018 Chevy Tahoe Custom has an available Enhanced Driver Alert Package with Forward Collision Alert, Safety Alert Driver Seat, IntelliBeam headlamps, Lane Keep Assist, and Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking. Standard are front and side-impact air bags, head curtain side-impact air bags for all rows, and GM’s trademark front-center air bag. The latter deploys from the inboard side of the driver’s seat, positioning itself between the driver and front passenger. GM created this airbag specifically to protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes where the affected occupants are on the opposite, non-struck side of the vehicle.
Power & Performance
The 2018 Chevy Tahoe Custom is equipped with the evergreen 5.3L V8, producing 355 horsepower with an EPA highway rating of 23. Standard tow capacity is 6,600 lbs. with up to 8,600 lbs. when equipped with the Max Trailering package.
Pricing & Availability
Expect the 2018 Chevy Tahoe Custom to arrive in September with a starting MSRP of $44,995.
 
 
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 
Photo: Chevrolet.
Photos & Source: Chevrolet.



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