Automotive

Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer Concept: A Glimpse of Magnificence?

Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer Concept: A Glimpse of Magnificence? Mitsubishi says the Engelberg Tourer Concept can handle any and all weather conditions.
Total driving range of the plug-in hybrid – engine and batteries combined – is over 430 miles.
A special home charging system with solar panels accompanies the Engelberg Tourer Concept.
The Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer is more than a glimpse of magnificence from the once-mighty Japanese diamond star. It is proof that future crossover vehicles – whether plug-in hybrids or full-electric – will be far from boring. And they won’t look the same, either.
Look at this thing, for example. The Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer is hard to figure out, which is probably the reason I’m loving it already. There’s a shock and awe factor when you first catch this SUV. There’s no denying the sporty and adventurous DNA; Mitsubishi vehicles are known for their sportiness anyway.
Yet viewed from the side and rear, the Engelberg Tourer has subtle hints of rugged luxury, similar to the Range Rovers and Land Cruisers of the world. Folks, you are looking at Mitsubishi’s next-generation plug-in hybrid SUV.
Brutish & Modern Style
Sadly, the Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer is just a concept. Then again, this SUV is actually pretty close to reality, and similar to the Nissan IMQ concept CUV in some ways. Although different in size and scope, both concepts would likely find promising markets, given consumer demand for SUVs and crossovers today. But unlike the Nissan (which seems like the offspring of a Nissan supercar and Lexus crossover), the Mitsubishi Engelberg bears a striking resemblance to current Mitsubishi vehicles.
Are you familiar with either the Mitsubishi Triton/Strada/L200 pickup; Montero Sport/Pajero Sport SUV; or the Xpander MPV? The common denominator between each is the “dynamic-shield” face. But with the Engelberg Concept, the dynamic-shield design is cleaner and more defined. The design is a bit polarizing, I’ll give you that, but the brutish face grows on you like a goatee.
The Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer features an updated version of the dynamic-shield face design. Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America.
What’s In A Name?
But compared to existing Mitsubishi SUVs, the Engelberg Tourer is chunkier and more purposeful. There’s no doubt the Engelberg Tourer concept is a vehicle for active lifestyles. Even the “Engelberg” appellation is derived from a well-known ski resort in Switzerland. I’m sure you’ll agree, it doesn’t get sportier or more outdoorsy than being named after a Swiss alpine resort.
But if I were Mitsubishi, I’ll choose Outlander or Pajero Sport as a final name. And if I’m betting my hard-earned dollars, I have a feeling this concept will shed the odd name for something more familiar or appealing like, umm, Outlander or Pajero Sport.
Advanced Electrification
As the Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer made its entrance during the Geneva International Motor Show, most of the hype focused on the Twin-Motor 4WD plug-in hybrid system. Now that’s quite a mouthful, so allow me to break it down. Similar to other plug-in hybrids, the Engelberg Tourer comes with a 2.4-liter gasoline engine. But it also comes with a rather large battery pack and two electric motors – one for the front and one in the rear. This allows the vehicle to achieve an impressive all-electric cruising range of 43 miles or 70 kilometers.
But if you take into account a fully-charged battery pack and a tankful of delicious petrol, the Engelberg Tourer has a cruising range of 434 miles or 700 kilometers. This is because the gasoline motor is acting as an onboard generator to charge the battery pack in series-hybrid mode.
Combined with the sleek shape and active radiator shutters, the Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer is aerodynamically-enhanced to achieve every ounce of range, according to the company. And Mitsubishi was able to do all this without scrimping on cabin space. This vehicle is roomy enough to accommodate seven.
Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer interior layout. Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
All-Wheel Control Technology
But the talk of the town is the twin-motor, full-time 4WD system. This is enough to make Mitsubishi fanboys blush with excitement. The Engelberg Tourer utilizes Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) in the powertrain.
Now, where did I hear that before? If you answered Lancer Evolution, you’re right on the money!
Active yaw control allows the electric motor to tailor the torque split between the front wheels. In the meantime, S-AWC alters the braking force at each wheel. It also monitors the power output in the front and rear electric motor. What does this all mean exactly? Picture the handling dynamics of a rally car combined with the ruggedness of an off-road SUV fed by electrons. If you add other abbreviations like ASC (active stability control) and ABS, the Engelberg Tourer is an SUV you can definitely throw around.
What’s next? The Dakar Rally or World Rally Championships, perhaps? Come to think of it, that’s not a far-fetched idea considering Mitsubishi’s affiliation with all things related to rallying and off-road endurance.
Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
Green Charging Options: DENDO Drive House
It’s nice that Mitsubishi is making an initiative towards sustainable energy options. The DENDO Drive House (DDH) technology is proof of that. The goal is to package the DDH system with the Engelberg Tourer. It consists of a bi-directional charger, solar panels, and home battery.
Yes, it’s remarkably similar to Tesla’s Powerwall. The DDS system will basically absorb power from the sun and store the energy in a larger battery pack. This means you can charge your plug-in hybrid vehicle using pure solar energy. This also means you can power your home at night using the juice from the home batteries and PHEV.
The DDH system will be available at Mitsubishi dealers in select markets around the world, but the Japanese car maker will start offering the service initially in Japan and Europe later this year. The dealer will handle installation and after-maintenance.
Photo: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
Pricing & Availability
All of this sounds promising, but how much will it cost? Considering a pair of Tesla Powerwalls will set you back around $15,000, it will be great if Mitsubishi bundles the DDH system at a lower price. As for the Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer, it’s just a concept for now. It’s our best guess as to when we will see it on the market, if at all.
Alvin Reyes is the Associate Editor of Automoblog. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.
Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer Concept Gallery

Photos & Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

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2018 BMW 2 Series: 3’s A Crowd

2018 BMW 2 Series: 3’s A Crowd

In 2014 there was a schism in the BMW world akin to Martin Luther and Pope Leo X: BMW introduced the new 2 Series and, without saying it, more or less plugged that into where the 3 Series was. The 3 Series was moving upmarket – getting bigger, more luxurious, fatter, in a word – and the 2 was more directly in line with where the 3 started.
This was seen by diehard fans of the Bavarian marque as a near insult. BMW 3 Series owners love the 3 Series the way William S. Burroughs loved heroin: completely and unerringly for the rest of their lives.
Three Fold
Yes, BMW still made M3 variants. Yes BMW was still capable of making 3 Series cars go down the Bahn very, very fast. But, BMW felt the initial lightness and agility of the 3 Series was slowly being lost to feature bloat. Feature bloat is what turns small cars into bigger cars in the relentless pursuit of keeping the customer happy. Look at where Honda’s Accord started out, and where it is now. The original Accord is about the size of a current Honda Civic. The same goes for VW’s Golf, which started out about the size of a VW Polo and is now the size of a Jetta, sans trunk.
So, BMW bit the bullet, cooked up a new model, and over the past few years, was able to quell the potential native uprising by both gentle explanation and by making a pretty darn good car out of the 2 Series. And really, the 2 Series is a 3 Series, only without all the burgeoning fat and size.
Refreshed Feel
The new, 2018 BMW 2 Series is a mid-cycle update, so what’s “new” here is down to that basic mid-cycle stuff: New color offerings, new wheels, updated interior design and materials, along with a “fresh look” for the LED headlamps and tail lamps. The overall exterior design hasn’t changed all that much. It still has that low-slung silhouette effect and stretched lines, but within the “compact proportions.” The new 2 Series has, however, a more striking front end.
It still has the classic BMW twin headlights along with the twin kidney grille, so even if you don’t see the badge, you know this is a BMW. Those twin headlights are now standard Bi-LED units that can throw a lot of photons down the Straße. If you want to go even further up the lighting food chain, adaptive LED headlights can also be spec’ed. On the 230i models, LED front fog lamps are standard, which is a nice touch.
The 2018 BMW 2 Series Coupe and Convertible come with an array of driver assistance systems, the latest-generation iDrive control technology, and an extensive range of connectivity features. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.

Colors & Wheels
The three new exterior colors – a dark Mediterranean Blue Metallic, a lighter Seaside Blue Metallic, and Sunset Orange – are available for both the Coupe and Convertible. Added to the pre-existing colors, buyers now have 11 to choose from.
The range of alloy wheels has also grown. The 230i comes standard with a 17-inch Double-Spoke wheel while the M240i features an 18-inch M Double-Spoke rim as standard. If you go with the M Sport package, the 230i is equipped with either 18-inch M Light-Alloy Double-Spoke wheels, M Ferric Grey Metallic wheels, or 18- inch Double-Spoke wheels with all-season tires. Both the gearhead-centric Track Handling Package and the M Sport Package have optional 18-inch Alloy Ferric Grey wheels.
Graphic: BMW of North America, LLC.
Interior Treatments
The inside has gotten a rather nice freshening along with a completely redesigned instrument panel. The 2018 BMW 2 Series comes standard with the Sport Line interior treatment, which can be specified Black with red contrast stitching if so desired. You can also choose between SensaTec fabric, available in Black and Oyster, and all models can now be ordered with Dakota Leather seats in Cognac. The Luxury Line adds Fineline Stream Wood Trim with Pearl Chrome highlights or Fineline Pure Wood Trim with Pear Chrome highlight. There are five different leather offerings, Aluminum interior strips, and Fineline wood accents.
The redesigned instrument panel features a center stack housing the radio and climate control panels. The cup holders (everso important to the American market) are located in the center storage compartment concealed by a sliding lid. The glove compartment blends in nicely and the air conditioning vents have been redesigned for additional room.
The 2018 BMW 2 Series Coupe and Convertible have an intricate suspension design for a lower center of gravity and a near 50:50 weight distribution. The suspension is aluminum intensive and includes a double-joint spring strut front axle with anti-roll bars and a five-link rear axle. The overall suspension design is meant to increase the ride and handling capabilities of the 2 Series. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.

Power & Performance
Now, about that “M” in BMW. The 2018 BMW 2 Series Coupe and Convertible come in two models: The 230i and M240i. The 4-banger in the 230i produces 248 horsepower while the M Performance model gets a 6-cylinder plant that cranks out 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. We here at 1 Automoblog Towers highly recommend getting M240i with the big six. With the 6-speed manual, the M240i Coupe hits 60 in 4.6 seconds; 4.4 seconds with the 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission.
The 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission actually splits the difference between an automatic and a manual fairly well. Still, if you want to truly choose your own cogs, the 6-speed manual gearbox is available. Also available is xDrive, BMW’s all-wheel drive system, which offers optimum power transfer and better traction. XDrive will mitigate any potential oversteer/understeer situations.
So, the real question, especially among BMW aficionados, is whether the 2 Series can replace the 3 as the light, fun, chuckable playmate of the lineup. I will leave divining that answer up to those who insist a sedan can be just as much fun as a true sports car.
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.
2018 BMW 2 Series Gallery

Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.

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Volvo Partners With Google To Introduce Android Tech For Future Models

Volvo Partners With Google To Introduce Android Tech For Future Models

Android technology is coming to future Volvo models; the Gothenburg, Sweden automaker has partnered with the Mountain View, California tech company for a new venture. According to Volvo, the partnership is meant to bring about the “next generation of award-winning in-car infotainment and connectivity.”
New Volvos will offer a broader selection of apps and services through the Android operating system. Expect to see it within two years.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Volvo to bring Android into their next generation connected cars,” said Patrick Brady, Vice President of Android Engineering at Google.
Meaningful Interactions
The partnership is meant to enhance how Volvo owners interact with their cars. The forthcoming connectivity system is expected to offer a catalog of apps, developed by either Google, Volvo, or other third party companies. Many of the apps will focus on connected and predictive services as it relates to the car.
“We are making an important strategic step with the Google partnership,” commented Henrik Green, Senior Vice President Research & Development, Volvo Car Group. “Google’s platform and services will enhance the user experience by enabling more personalization possibilities, while Android will offer increased flexibility from a development perspective.”
Photo: Volvo Car Group.
Changing Trends
The partnership reflects the growing desire for drivers to be connected to their vehicles, and how automotive and tech companies are working to bridge that gap. With an Android operating system, Volvo customers will see a much more responsive, flexible, and personal in-car infotainment offering. According to Volvo, partnerships such as this one with Google are a necessity for the automotive industry.
“This partnership gives us the opportunity to deliver a more seamless experience to Volvo drivers through a full-featured infotainment platform and rich ecosystem of Android applications and Google services,” Brady said.
Photo: Volvo Car Group.

Future Vision
Volvo is positioning themselves as one of the most forward-thinking, most innovative automakers – and certinately the most vocal. Volvo has petitioned world governments to embrace autonomous driving, promised an electric variant for every vehicle in their lineup, and climate-neutral manufacturing operations by 2025. Volvo Cars President and Chief Executive Officer, Håkan Samuelsson again highlighted the importance of sustainability at an event just last week.
Now this partnership with Google that promises a better ownership experience for Volvo customers. More details will be announced at Google’s annual tech show, Google I/O on Wednesday.
“With the advent of Android we will embrace a rich ecosystem while keeping our iconic Volvo user interface,” Green said. “We will offer hundreds of popular apps and the best integrated experience in this broad, connected environment.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Volvo Car Group.

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Automoblog Book Garage: The Complete Book of Camaro

Automoblog Book Garage: The Complete Book of Camaro

Every so often (daily), Danielle and I talk (have long conversations) about the “dream cars” we will one day own. While there are a few (many) on the list, living in Detroit gives us an inherent affinity for American muscle. Which is why the Chevrolet Camaro, especially the first generation, always appears on our list.
Given Danielle grew up in the shop of her family’s Michigan-based trucking company, it’s probably not at all surprising.
Family & Future
Her family built an honorable legacy in a rural Michigan community that may well have disappeared without them. This was seen recently at her grandmother’s funeral as memories were recalled and stories were shared. For Danielle and many others who gravitate towards the Camaro, it’s about what the car represents; it’s about what that slice of American Iron truly means. For some, it’s honest work. For others, family and faith. And for others, it’s just simply the thrill of hearing the engine rev. But whatever the reasons, becasue the legacy of such cars live forever, as long as we are attached to them in some way, we can too.

Lasting Legacy
The Complete Book of Camaro: Every Model Since 1967 chronicles the Camaro’s journey, beginning with the original “Panther” concept. Literally every model since 1967 is featured, complete with beautiful photos and detailed technical specifications. The Complete Book of Camaro shows the early pony car wars with Ford and how the second generation became instantly recognizable with unique styling. The book dives into the muscle car renaissance of the 1980s and how the Camaro continued into the 90s, then uncharted waters.
No matter how many times I think I’ve seen the Camaro, I’ve never quite seen it like this.
Author
David Newhardt is one of the top automotive writers and photographers today. He has provided photography for best-selling Motorbooks titles like Muscle: America’s Legendary Performance Cars, Corvette: Fifty Years, Mustang: Forty Years, Mopar Muscle: Fifty Years, and Shelby Mustang: Racer for the Street.
The Complete Book of Camaro: Every Model Since 1967 is available through Amazon and Motorbooks.
The Complete Book of Camaro Gallery

Another excellent book is Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance, which we featured recently in our Book Garage series.

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2017 Honda Civic Si: Product & Performance Overview

2017 Honda Civic Si: Product & Performance Overview

The 2017 Honda Civic Si Coupe and Sedan are available now and quite affordable with a starting MSRP of $23,900. This Civic Si duo was revealed only a month ago and represent, according to Honda, the most ambitious remake in the Civic’s 44-year history. Both cars, be it coupe or sedan, have solid performance attributes, connectivity options, and safety features, despite the relatively lower price point.
Power & Performance
Right out of the gate, the Civic Si makes things fun with a short-throw, 6-speed manual transmission. A 1.5-liter, direct-injected and turbocharged DOHC in-line 4-cylinder, with dual variable cam timing resides under the hood. The powertrain, according to Honda, provides “a dynamic driving experience with a much broader power band and significantly increased torque output compared to the previous Si.”
And they are not kidding. Peak output (205 horsepower) appears lower in the rev range – 5,700 vs. 7,000 rpm – while peak torque (192 lb-ft.) comes in at 2,100 versus 4,400 rpm. Peak torque is also sustained over 70 percent of the engine’s rev range.
Drivers have access to two different modes (Normal and Sport) depending on their tastes. Normal Mode is more comfort based and good for the daily commute and running errands. Those wanting to experiment will enjoy Sport mode which adjusts suspension characteristics, steering feel, and throttle response.
Chassis, Suspension, Steering
With the engine making the power more accessible, the architecture now steps up to accentuate the car’s dynamics. The 2017 Civic Si Coupe and Sedan are lighter than the models they replace: Civic Si Sedan’s curb weight is 2,906 pounds, down 96 pounds from before. The Si Coupe tips the scales at 2,889 pounds, down 113 pounds from prior models. Both cars have a more rigid body, which will provide safety benefits, better fuel economy, and a good, solid planted feel while driving.
The suspension is really something too, with a two-mode adaptive damper system, stiffer spring rates, and more rigid stabilizer bars (+30 percent front, +60 percent rear). There are solid front and rear compliance bushings and beefed up front upper control arms, which actually come from the record setting Civic Type R. All of these upgrades make the Civic Si very nimble, an indispensable benefit when moving through traffic or around tighter corners.
Keeping with that same train of through, a dual-pinion adaptive electric power steering system with variable ratios will ensure nice, crisp handling, be it traversing the city or on the open highway.
Photo: Honda North America.
Exterior Styling
The Honda Civic Si is marked by its unique front fascia, gloss black wing, and large lower air intakes. The 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels have a model-exclusive finish with low-profile tires. The Si Coupe has a full-width light bar with a raised wing spoiler; the Si Sedan features an exclusive rear fascia, decklid, and spoiler with an LED brake light.
Interior Treatments
While driver’s are taking advantage of the nimble architecture and more powerful engine, the bolstered front seats will keep them in place. The seats feature an Si logo and red accent stitching that flows through the rest of the interior. Red is really the central theme here, especially on the driver’s display – it contrasts nicely with the carbon-tinted instrument panel.
Interior treatments for comfort and convenience include dual-zone automatic climate control with air filtration, heated front seats, white ambient LED lighting, functional center console storage, and a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat. The 2017 Honda Civic Si is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and includes app-based navigation, streaming audio, and voice activated commands.
The Driver Information Interface (DII) is new and displays a multitude of real-time information. Driver’s will enjoy thumbing through data that shows throttle and brake applications in a graphic percentage, turbocharger (psi), and even lap times. In fact, the DII has a G-meter for a more accurate representation of acceleration, braking, and cornering forces when on the track.
Photo: Honda North America.

Safety & Security
Honda says the 2017 Civic Si provides “a high level of collision safety performance in a wide variety of collision scenarios, including offset and oblique-angle frontal collisions as well as side and rear impacts.” Both cars are equipped with four-channel anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control, and Agile Handling Assist to provide additional stability during emergency or evasive maneuvers.
Both the Civic Si Coupe and Sedan have received a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Pricing & Availability
The 2017 Honda Civic Si is available now – pricing varies but is still relatively affordable with neither car topping $24,100 for a starting MSRP. The 2017 Civic Si for the United States market is assembled at Honda’s Ontario, Canada assembly. The engines are produced in Anna, Ohio, Honda’s largest automobile engine plant in the world.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
2017 Honda Civic Si Coupe Gallery

2017 Honda Civic Si Sedan Gallery

Photos & Source: Honda North America.

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Ford Hot Shot: The Jimmy John’s of Parts

Ford Hot Shot: The Jimmy John’s of Parts

Right, so Ford has this new parts delivery service called Hot Shot that aims to get parts to repair shops and customers really fast. But don’t car companies and second tier parts suppliers already do this? I thought they already did, but I could be wrong.
As both my loyal readers know, I’ve got this friend Carl who runs a repair shop in Seattle. I have spent a lot of time hanging out at his shop. I mean a lot. He’s a great guy, and even though my cars don’t need that much work, I’m always up for swinging by to say hello and see how he’s doing.
Day’s Work
More often then not, he’s turning a wrench, talking things over with the two other mechanics – Brian and Jerry – on the phone keeping the schedule full, and in the front office dealing with customers (this involves everything from happily getting a bill paid to painfully explaining simple mechanical principles like, “no, just cause I changed your wiper blades last month, that has nothing to do with that grinding noise coming from your transmission” (and no, I am not making that up)).
Or, as is the case with our story today, dealing with parts deliveries.
Usually, parts, by way of a dealer’s parts department show up three to four times a day – first thing in the morning, some time around lunch or some time in the late afternoon. In addition to the constant stream of customers coming and going, tool truck guys coming and going, uniform trucks coming and going, and schmoes like me clogging up the works, there seems to always be a parts delivery person (usually very competent and very cheery and positive) dropping off everything from camshaft gasket kits that could fit in an envelope, to entire rebuilt Subaru engines.
So what’s so different about Ford’s Hot Shot parts delivery deal?
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Order Up
Essentially, Ford’s Hot Shot parts delivery works more like a pizza restaurant than a catering kitchen. Normal, non-Hot Shot parts are sent out on a schedule, the aforementioned first thing in the morning, some time around lunch, or some time in the late afternoon. Hot Shot takes a shop or customer’s specific individual order and then gets the parts winging their way fast. Fast as in Hot Shot express parts delivery orders from Ford are fulfilled within two hours. As an example, the Village Ford dealership in Dearborn, Michigan commonly receives 20 to 30 Hot Shot orders per day.
Ford is quick to point out their Hot Shot express parts delivery is not new. Growth of the program shows dealers have no problem adjusting to the changing needs of consumers; the number of dealers offering Hot Shot has grown to more than 300 in recent years.
“These deliveries are going to 40 different customers including other dealers and independent shops,” said Andrew Kochan, Parts Manager, Village Ford. “All are pleased with the service and many are amazed by our dedication to helping them better serve their customers.”
Photo: Ford Motor Company.

Upward Expansion
Increased acceptance of Hot Shot with dealers is the latest example of how Ford aims to improve customer service. Another example comes from earlier this year when Ford introduced a service kiosk program that allows customers to pick up and drop off vehicles and pay for repairs 24/7. And then Ford’s launch of the Omnicraft line, replacement parts for all makes of non-Ford vehicles.
So, could this new pizza-style parts delivery system actually work? Time will tell. It seems to be cutting real close to the bone of the ratio of satisfied customers divided by the costs of gas. If the numbers work, and Ford can keep everyone satisfied without blowing the profits on fleet costs, then expect to see others adapt this delivery model.
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.
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.

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Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Stelvio Ti: Longing For Milano

Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Stelvio Ti: Longing For Milano

I’m not sure how I feel about this. On one hand, it’s an SUV and, basically, there’s enough of those things running around out there. 9 out of 10 of them are bought for inconsequential “reasons” and the practicality you get could be better served by other rides. On the other hand: This is an Alfa Romeo.
Look, I will make no bones about this: I love Alfas. In my “huge warehouse for cars I will get when I win the lottery” there are many, many Alfas. Many. They have, without question, made at least a handful of truly great cars over the course of history.
You don’t get to call yourself “iL Primo Automobile Campione del Mondo” for nothing, you know. But still . . . it’s an SUV.
Longing For Milano
I can thoroughly understand Ford and GM and the like making these things. And I can even see other automakers selling them. They are top sellers, and in some cases (Porsche) the sales of SUVs allow car companies to make loss-leaders that are fantastic (911 GT3s). But then there are those other car companies that are making SUVs for no logical reason. Honestly, Bentley and Aston Martin and Lamborghini should be hauled before the committee poste haste and forced to explain themselves.
But, here I am, staring down the barrel of not one but two Alfa Romeo SUVs. Now what am I gonna do? Close my eyes and think of Milano, I guess.
Double Time
Basically, there are two Alfa Romeo Stelvio SUVs: the “normal” Stelvio, and the slightly more full zoot Stelvio Ti. Generally speaking, the overall similarities are like this: Alfa says it’s “an SUV for the S-curves,” which is cute, and what seemingly every manufacturer says about their SUVs. We, the gearheads, laugh loudly in their general direction. But in Alfa’s case, they might not be joking.
For starters, all Stelvio models feature a near 50/50 weight distribution, which is really going to help with handling and performance. There’s an eight-speed automatic transmission with available, steering column-mounted aluminum paddle shifters. Shifts take place in less than 100 milliseconds. No, I’m not kidding. That makes me start to think Alfa let the loonies out of the racing department.
“The all-new Stelvio further highlights and expands Alfa Romeo’s return to North America with a premium mid-size SUV that truly stands apart in the segment,” said Reid Bigland, Head of Alfa Romeo. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Performance Tech
Stelvios (Stelvii? Stelvi? Siamo spiacenti, il mio italiano è un po ‘arrugginito) come very well-equipped with lots of standard and premium features, like the leather interior, remote start with passive entry, bi-xenon headlamps, a roarty dual exhaust, a class-exclusive carbon-fiber driveshaft (fresco!), and a flat-bottom Formula One-inspired steering wheel (molto fresco!). The Stelvio also has a DNA drive mode selector, which is a rather overwrought term for a gizmo that varies suspension and performance settings based on need/terrain/conditions.
Everything is motivated down the Strada via a direct injected, 280 horsepower turbocharged and intercooled 2.0L engine. The Stelvio hits 60 in an estimated 5.4 seconds. And HOLY @&^%! is that ever quick right out of the box. 5.4 seconds? Like Porsche Cayenne GTS quick. Like, if I have to buy an SUV quick. 5.4 seconds . . . heck of a number, that.
Besides that plant cranking out the power, Alfa gets those kind of numbers thanks to an innovative Q4 all-wheel drive system, standard on all Stelvio models. I believe that’s the same AWD layout they used on 144 DTM cars that was so crushingly superior the FIA outright banned it.
The Stelvio Pass is the highest mountain pass in Italy and the second highest in Europe. With a 12-mile road that contains over 48 bends, adventurers reach up to 9,000 feet. Photo: FCA US LLC.

Executive Treatments
18-inch aluminum wheels are standard, with 19- and 20-inch wheels available. Other standard items include bi-xenon headlamps with signature LED daytime running lights, LED tail lamps, and a backup camera with rear park sensors (thank you). The remote start, passive entry with Keyless Go, and a power liftgate were all no doubt made with the FLA (Fat Lazy American) market in mind.
The Formula One-inspired, flat-bottom steering wheel with integrated push button start is available on the Sport Package for another $1,800. That also adds 19-inch wheels, steering column-mounted aluminum paddle shifters (which you should really get), a sport steering wheel, genuine aluminum accents, gloss-black window trim surround, black roof rails, aluminum sport pedals and deadpedal, and colored brake calipers. The sport-tuned suspension is a nice touch, as is the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Safety features include Full-speed Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Warning. Photo: FCA US LLC.

Stelvio Ti
Okay, so the 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio (the “normal” base level model) has an MSRP of $41,995. The 2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Ti lists at $43,995. It features all the goodies on the Stelvio, but adds even more premium perks and convenience offerings. For starters, the 19-inch wheels are standard as are the genuine wood interior accents; a larger 8.8-inch entertainment and information display, SiriusXM, front park sensors, heated steering wheel, and heated front seats are also part of the Ti.
Two further sub-models include the Ti Sport and Ti Lusso. Each of these will cost you a not-unreasonable $2,500.
Properly Packaged
The Stelvio Ti Sport adds 20-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, 12-way power high performance sport leather seats, including 4-way lumbar and power bolsters with thigh extenders (stop that giggling), steering column-mounted aluminum paddle shifters, sport steering wheel, gloss-black window trim surround, black roof rails, aluminum sport pedals and footrest, and colored brake calipers.
The Stelvio Ti Lusso (lusso is the Italian word for luxury) includes the 19-inch wheels, Luxury Pieno Fiore Italian leather seats with Cannelloni inserts, 12-way power front seats including 4-way lumbar, leather-wrapped dash and upper door trim with accent stitching, genuine wood trim in dark gray oak or light walnut, a luxury steering wheel, and aluminum pedals and footrest.
Overall, that sounds like a lot of bang for your buck. It’s right in the middle of the budget spectrum for SUVs, and hits the sweet spot for luxury/performance oriented buyers. If Alfa Romeo can make these things run (and not to totally dismiss the 400 pound gorilla in the room, that is a very big and very important if) they should sell them by the boatload. Would I buy one? Forse … forse … my “huge warehouse for cars I will get when I win the lottery” does have lots of space after all.
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.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio Gallery

Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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McLaren 570S GT4 To Debut In 2017 China GT Championship

McLaren 570S GT4 To Debut In 2017 China GT Championship

This weekend, the McLaren 570S GT4 track car will makes its debut in the first race of the 2017 China GT championship. The event at Beijing Goldenport Park circuit is expected to draw a TV and online audience of over 75 million. Since its conception last year, the China GT has become one of the most extravagant, most elite racing contests in China.
McLaren has been named Official Safety Car partner and will provide a 570S road car accordingly.
Track Attack
The 570S uses its lightweight architecture and carbon fiber Monocell II chassis to its distinct advantage. The 570S was designed for the track, and benefits especially from things like an aluminium rear wing that balances extra downforce. There are bonnet “nostrils” to improve overall airflow and a centrally mounted front radiator to encourage heat dissipation. In short, the McLaren 570S has an array of cutting-edge tech that makes it a fitting machine for the race track.
Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Winning Team
16 teams will compete in 12 races at six different locations: Beijing, Erdos, Zhuhai, Shanghai, Chengdu, and the new Zhejiang circuit. The GT4 class is new for 2017, in addition to the GT3 and GTC competitions that ran in 2016 last year.
A McLaren customer racing team named “The Winning Team” will enter a 570S GT4 piloted by two professional racers in the GT4 class, David McIntyre and Roelof Bruins. McIntyre, McLaren’s Managing Director of China, competed in the Korean Speed Festival for three years and ran the Malaysian Touring Car Championship last year. Bruins begain as a youth in karting and has 25 years of racing experience. He competed in Korean Touring Cars for the past seven years, winning five championships during that time.
The duo will race the McLaren 570S GT4 at all 12 dates on the China GT calendar.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Photos & Source: About McLaren Automotive.

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2017 Nissan Rogue Sport: Priced Right For Buyers On The Go

2017 Nissan Rogue Sport: Priced Right For Buyers On The Go

The new 2017 Rogue Sport, that would be Nissan’s small-ish SUV crossover thingo, the one you saw a while back with all those Star Wars/Rogue One commercial tie-ins, finally has its specs and pricing set. As one would expect, it is loaded with tons of standard features, and won’t break your bank account.
Nissan’s new Rogue Sport is the slightly smaller, sportier and more affordable version of the normal Rogue.
Emotional Cues
The Rogue Sport is designed for younger, urban SUV buyers, so you know Nissan will market this thing as being as hip as they can get away with, and that it will be covered in tech features. The Rogue Sport has many of the design, utility, and technology features of the normal Rogue, which is probably a very good move since the Rogue is Nissan’s best-selling vehicle in the United States.
The Rogue Sport’s design mixes a compact body with strong fender volumes and an aggressive “wheel-oriented stance” to convey “a feeling of robust agility.” Nissan calls it an “emotional geometry,” but to me, there’s nothing very special or overly distinctive here. Moving on.
Creature Comforts
Comfort and convenience features? Oh my yes. By the car load. The seating is leather-appointed (meaning it’s only leather where you touch it) and the front seats are heated. There is an available Divide-N-Hide Cargo System (whatever that might be), a RearView Monitor, Siri Eyes Free, and NissanConnect with Navigation and Mobile Apps. There’s a 7.0-inch color touchscreen display and a Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant. Also available is the advanced Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection and Intelligent Cruise Control, plus SiriusXM.
Photo: Nissan North America.

Safety & Security
There is a complete suite of Nissan Intelligent Safety Shield technologies, gizmos, goodies, and gee-whizzers. This includes Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Departure Prevention.
Power & Performance
Running gear wise, a 141 horsepower, 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder plant is standard. It’s mated to an Xtronic gear box with an Eco Mode switch and a 4-wheel independent suspension. Nothing really earth shattering there, or anything to write home about, but there’s the specs for those of you that want to know. You can get your 2017 Nissan Rogue Sport in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Cargo Capacity
The Rogue Sport provides a lot of room inside, considering its small road footprint. There’s seating for five and up to 22.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seat in the way back. Flop that second row of seats down and you get up to 61.1 cubic feet which is enough for a drum set or a DJ setup and PA – that sort of stuff.
Pricing & Availability
Pricing starts at $21,420 for the Rogue Sport S model in front-wheel drive configuration and goes all the way up to $27,420 for the full zoot, all the features all the time Rogue Sport SL AWD. So roughly speaking, between 20 and 30 large, there’s a small(ish) SUV/crossover thing out there waiting for you young, on the go, urban professional types. The new 2017 Rogue Sport is at Nissan dealers now.
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.
Photo: Nissan North America.
Photos & Source: Nissan North America.

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