Automotive

Report: Alfa Romeo cans plans for a Giulia Sport Wagon

Alfa Romeo planned to build a long-roof variant of its Giulia sedan, but axed it in favor of the Stelvio crossover.

What’s going on?

Auto enthusiasts caught a glimpse of hope after rumors suggested an Alfa Romeo Giulia wagon was on the way. Some digital renderings even surfaced, reinforcing the talk of the town and previewing what could possibly be a long-roof Giulia.

Click here for more news on the Alfa Romeo Giulia or Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

But sadly, the rumors turned out to be false, according to the latest from CAR.

Alfa originally intended to build a Sportwagon variant of the Giulia, catering to Europe’s general love for wagons. And for a moment, the potential hope to see that wagon stateside made all of us Americans excited. But after further assessment, Alfa found demand to be too small for a wagon version altogether, even in Europe.

Why did Alfa Romeo cancel the Giulia Sport Wagon?

Simply put: blame the Stelvio SUV and the high-demand for crossovers. Alfa Romeo’s manufacturing chief, Alfredo Altavilla, says the company’s betting on the Stelvio SUV to fill in the gap instead of a Giulia Sport Wagon.

The company believes will “drive just as well as a Giulia wagon would,” eliminating the need for both models. But as crossover SUVs proved they can drive well, their higher center of gravity and heavier bodies still take tolls, especially when compared to wagons.

The lack of a Giulia Sportwagon might be a bit upsetting. But considering how Alfa Romeo delayed the Giulia several times and continues struggling with its finances, the decision makes sense.

Will there be any other Giulia variants?

Although no wagon is planned, rumors are still abound for a possible coupe version of the Giulia. The two-door variant would compete with the likes of the BMW 4-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: CAR

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The all-new, Nurburgring-tuned 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT arrives as America's i30

Hyundai revealed the all-new i30 hatch for Europe in Paris last year and now, it’s bound for America as the 2018 Elantra GT.

What’s going on?

The relatively quiet, but fourth-largest auto show in North America is currently happening. Despite being the smallest behind Detroit, Los Angeles, and New York, the Chicago Auto Show still manages to have a few reveals up its sleeve.

The latest: meet the all-new 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT, recently revealed at the McCormick Convention Center.

What’s new about it?

If the 2018 Elantra GT looks familiar, that’s because Hyundai unveiled it as the i30 at Paris last year. Clearly aimed at the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Honda Civic, the Elantra GT receives a far more refined and aggressive design. But not only that, it offers a whole list of updates making it hugely compeitive on paper.

For instance, the Elantra GT has the most interior capacity when compared to any of its competition. It’s also 61 pounds lighter and 22-percent structurally stiffer, thanks to more varied use of materials. The 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT also had its handling and ride specifically tuned on the famed Nürburgring. Bolstering the handling argument even further, a far superior fully-independent multi-link arrangement replaces the previous model’s rear torsion beam setup.

What powers it?

When the new Elantra GT hits showrooms later this year, it’ll come with a choice of two inline-fours. The standard engine is a naturally-aspirated 2.0L four-pot, yielding 162 horsepower while the optional turbocharged 1.6L four-pot comes with 201hp and 195 pound-feet of twist. Both come with the option of a six-speed manual, while the 2.0L gets the choice of a six-speed auto. Should you want an automatic with the turbo mill, a seven-speed dual-clutch cog swapper is available.

What other cool things come with the 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT?

Hyundai’s really pushing its wireless connectivity suites and integration. Thus, the Elantra GT comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Hyundai’s Blue Link capabilities, and even connectivity with Amazon’s Alexa.

How much will it cost?

Hyundai didn’t announce the price yet, but we can expect that information to surface as we near the car’s launch.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: Hyundai

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Nissan extends the 2018 Titan lineup with a King Cab configuration

Nissan adds a new King Cab configuration to the 2018 Titan’s lineup, allowing for seating up to six.

What’s going on?

The 2017 Chicago Auto Show is what’s going on, and Nissan brought some new offerings to show off. The latest we have here is a new body option for the 2018 Nissan Titan. Now, you can get the Titan in King Cab style, meaning it sports an extra row of seating in the back over the standard cab. But it’s smaller than the full four-door Quad Cab variant.

Where as the Nissan Titan Quad Cab comes with four full-size doors, the Titan King Cab comes with two regular front doors and two rear-hinged, rear doors. The style will be available on both the half-ton Titans and the larger, heavier duty Titan XD. But only a 6.5-foot bed can be paired with any of the King Cabs.

Should buyers also want to delete the rear bench on the King Cab for more storage space, that’s also an option.

Other than that, what else is new about it?

Not much.

2017 Nissan Titan King Cab

OK, what powers it?

As you’d expect, the King Cab Titans only come with the traditional gasser 5.6L V8 with 390 horsepower. The larger Titan XD could be fitted with the lovely 5.0L Cummins turbodiesel V8 with 310hp and 555 pound-feet of torque. The gas V8 comes with a six-speed automatic while the diesel gets a seven-speed box.

That means the towing capacities of the new King Cab Titans are similar to the Quad Cab and standard cab models, depending the engine choice. The 5.6L gas V8 Titan King Cab can tow up to 9,410 pounds with a max payload of 1,640 pounds. While the diesel is expectedly more capable, towing up to 12,510 pounds and a max payload of 2,710 pounds.

When will it come out?

Nissan didn’t officially announce the pricing for the King Cab Titans. But that information is likely to surface as we near the spring launch date.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: Nissan

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This Special McLaren 720S Is A Blue Beauty

This Special McLaren 720S Is A Blue Beauty Like many other high-end car manufacturers, McLaren has their own in-house custom shop. It’s called McLaren Special Operations, or MSO, and it is responsible for creating customized versions of the British company’s already impressive cars. Bespoke, to use the veddy, veddy British term.
Deep Blue Somthing
The McLaren 720S in Atlantic Blue by MSO takes the deepest of deep blue paint the Woking outfit could come up with, and combines it with a classic Saddle Tan leather interior. I’ve got to say the result is very easy on the eyes. McLaren says the Atlantic Blue really shows off the “shrink-wrapped” design of the 720S, a car noted for its aerodynamics, smoothly sculpted surfaces, and double-hinged dihedral doors.
The McLaren 720S in Atlantic Blue was commissioned for the Geneva International Motor Show as a showcase for MSO’s bespoke craftsmanship and range of personalization choices. MSO’s capabilities include developing special materials, finishes, colors, and trim pieces, providing specific aerodynamic and lightweight components, and crafting entire one-off cars.
Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Driver-Focused
This particular Atlantic Blue McLaren 720S is the second in the company’s Super Series that marries supercar performance with a glut of luxury and convenience features in the glass-enclosed, teardrop-shaped cockpit. The McLaren 720S focuses entirely on the driving experience thanks to its use of aerodynamics, proactive suspension control, carbon-fiber construction, and a very potent 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8.
Thanks to that plant, the McLaren 720S puts out 720PS (as its name implies, but that translates to 710 bhp in American measurements) and can deliver a top speed of 212 mph. 62 mph comes up in a quick 2.9 seconds. And this is no performance stripper either. Heated electric seats, keyless entry, soft-close doors, cruise control, electrically-adjustable steering column, and a climate control system are all standard features.
Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Further Modifications
Since MSO rightly thinks the typical owner will want their ride to be suitable for both track driving and everyday usability, the Atlantic Blue McLaren 720S comes with the McLaren Track Telemetry and camera system. This is for enjoyment on the track naturally, but it’s practical with its 360-degree Park Assist system. The sensors and cameras will help you out in crowded city driving environments. The car also comes with a vehicle lift to avoid damage over ramps, speed bumps, steep(ish) driveways, and the like. There is a Bowers & Wilkins 12-speaker audio system in there too.
Pricing
How much, you ask? Well, customized, er bespoke stuff don’t come cheap, chaps, and in the case of this McLaren 720S in Atlantic Blue, that means £281,260, or right around $400,000 green back dollars.
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.
Atlantic Blue McLaren 720S Gallery

Photos & Source: McLaren Automotive.

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“Greatest Hits” Jaguar Created For Iron Maiden Drummer Nicko McBrain

“Greatest Hits” Jaguar Created For Iron Maiden Drummer Nicko McBrain Who said Jaguar is a stodgy old British company? If you did, this factory-custom 1984 XJ6 Series 3 they just turned out should dispel that notion. And if that’s not enough, look who they made it for: Nicko McBrain. Yes, that Nicko McBrain, the drummer for Iron Maiden. That doesn’t sound all that stodgy, now does it?
Full disclosure here: I’m not much of an Iron Maiden fan. It’s not that I dislike them, it’s just that if I’m in the mood for some British heavy metal, my tastes run more toward Motorhead [Killed By Death currently playing]. I’ve always thought the guys in Iron Maiden seem like good blokes, and seeing the drummer’s taste in cars just confirms that.
Running Free
The Jag in question was made to kick off the XJ’s 50th anniversary celebrations for 2018 and was rolled out at the Geneva International Motor Show. And, for a car customized for a metal drummer, it’s pretty tastefully done.
The bespoke commission was a collaboration between McBrain (great heavy metal name, that), the engineers and craftsmen from Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works in Coventry, and Jaguar Design Studio Director Wayne Burgess. From start to finish, the project encompassed more than 3,500 man hours of work and more than 4,000 parts refinished, replaced, or redesigned. By the time they were finished, the XJ had considerable modifications to the exterior, interior, drivetrain, and suspension.
Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.
Modifications & Treatments
Let’s run this down, shall we? For starters, there are unique front and rear bumpers that blend into the modded fenders. Also note the bespoke chrome brightwork and flush-fit US side markers – a nice touch (the car is full of them). Those fenders were flared and re-profiled, front and back, so the wheel arches can fit those beefy, custom-made 18-inch wire wheels fitted with 235/45 R18 Pirelli P Zero tires. The door sills are unique and the rear door pressings were modified. The suspension was upgraded with adjustable rear dampers.
The paint color is unique to this car, a mauve that comes across like a very dark purple/blue. See what I mean, rather restrain and understated for a heavy metal drummer? Jag also went the subtle route by using door handles from the Series 2 XJ, but they also added bullet rearview mirrors. The headlights are also modern LED deals with Halo daytime running lights. Jag even recessed the twin fuel fillers, a nice hot rod touch. Other modern niceties include the door sealing and additional sound deadening materials.
Of course the interior has been seriously gone through, but still just as restrained as the exterior. The leather seats are hand-trimmed in Pimento Red with black piping and embossed head rests, black hand-crafted carpet lines the floor, and Alcantara headlining finishes off the trimmings. The dashboard features Dark Grey stained Sycamore veneers – the preferred material for Nicko’s favorite snare drums – another nice touch.
Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.
Burning Ambition
There is a custom audio system with USB connectivity and machined aluminum amplifier-style control knobs (they look like Marshalls t’me). That audio system is an Alpine touchscreen-controlled piece that cranks out over 1,000 watts! Other sentiments of Nicko’s “day job” include drum kit inspired pedals, finished in chrome and black, and a three-spoke steering wheel featuring his unique mascot “Eddie Growler.”
Power comes from the classic Jag 4.2-liter in-line six-cylinder engine rigged with three two-inch SU carburetors from an E-type, and machined quad-exhaust tail pipes.
Honestly, what’s not to like?
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.
“Greatest Hits” Jaguar Gallery

Photos & Source: Jaguar Land Rover.

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2019 Acura RDX & RDX A-Spec To Debut In New York

2019 Acura RDX & RDX A-Spec To Debut In New York Acura will hold the world debut of the new RDX and RDX A-Spec, in production-ready form, at the upcoming New York International Auto Show. Earlier this year, the RDX Prototype was showcased at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The forthcoming RDX is the first in what Acura bills as a new generation of products. Said products will demonstrate the brand’s new design language, Precision Cockpit cabin, and True Touchpad Interface.
Power & Performance
The third-generation Acura RDX marks the return of Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) to the RDX lineup. Acura says this system is paired to a “powerful and new” 2.0 VTEC Turbo engine and the segment’s first 10-speed transmission. Acura also says the new RDX includes an NSX-inspired Integrated Dynamics System, making it the quickest and best-handling RDX ever.
Design & Development
The 2019 Acura RDX was designed and developed in America for the first time, styled by the Acura Design Studio in Los Angeles, California and developed by engineers in Raymond, Ohio. The new RDX will be produced at the company’s East Liberty, Ohio plant, while its new VTEC Turbo engine will be manufactured in Anna, Ohio.
The reveal is set for March 28th at 12:15 p.m. (Eastern) and will be broadcast live on Acura’s YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter pages.
Photo & Source: Honda North America.

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Ram Heavy Duty Night Editions Debut In The Windy City

Ram Heavy Duty trucks will mean business at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show as a new special package is revealed. The Night package is based on the monochromatic Sport appearance package, and will be available on Ram 2500 and 3500. The Night package will dress these powerful machines up even more, from the wheels to the grille.

The idea was to create a performance oriented feel.

“Truck enthusiasts look for ways to stand out from the crowd and Ram is building the best trucks in the enthusiast segment,” explained Mike Manley, Head of Ram Brand, FCA-Global.

Features & Treatments

Ram Heavy Duty Night packages start with the aforementioned monochromatic Sport appearance package. That includes things like body-colored wheel flares, for example. From there, black lighting bezels, black-bezel headlamps, body-color-painted bumpers, and a black grill surround bring the Night imagery to life.

Other elements exclusive to the Night package include a black grille surround with black billet inserts, flat black Ram 2500 or 3500 Heavy Duty door badge, and flat black powertrain door badging. The Night package includes 20×8-inch black-painted aluminum wheels and LT285/60R20E white letter on/off road tires.

Black rectangular running boards also are available.

Night package Ram HD trucks are finished inside with heated cloth vinyl bucket seats with 10-way power adjustment, power-adjustable pedals, and automatic temperature control with dual-zone climate control.

Ram Heavy Duty Night package interior. Photo: FCA US LLC.

Power & Performance

Ram Heavy Duty trucks are big hitters here, delivering 31,210 lbs. of towing capability through their 6.7-liter Cummins High-Output Turbo Diesel. The engine produces 385 horsepower and 900 lb-ft. of torque. Those looking for a gas HD truck may find value in the fact Ram has the largest displacement V-8 in the segment. The 6.4-liter HEMI has 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft. of torque.

Currently, Ram 2500 holds the ¾-ton gas-powered towing title with 16,320 pounds of capacity.

Ram trucks also come in handy right about the time snow starts piling up. Ram Heavy Duty trucks offer the segment’s highest plow ratings, and after watching this video, it makes sense. The plowing performance of a Ram is unmatched and would be an ideal choice to clear large areas, like a parking lot, during harsh winters.

“The Ram Brand understands that it’s important to meet the demands and deliver outstanding, durable products to every type of truck buyer,” Manley said.

Pricing & Availability

The Night package is available on Ram 2500 and 3500 (single rear wheel models only) in Crew Cab configurations, 4×2 or 4×4, and any available powertrain combination. Ram 2500 and 3500 HD Night models come in Bright Silver Metallic, Bright White, Brilliant Black Crystal, Delmonico Red Pearl, and Granite Crystal Metallic.

Production of the 2017 Ram HD Night models began in early February. Ram Heavy Duty Night pricing starts at $45,520 plus $1,320 destination.

Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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2018 Ford Expedition: Less Weight, More Power, More Tech

Ford calls the 2018 Expedition the ideal vehicle for active families, saying the full-size SUV is the smartest, most capable Expedition yet. Refinements for 2018 include connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and increases in performance attributes like tow capacity.

More than 40 additional features and driver-assist technologies are new to the Expedition for 2018. Ford points out how today’s full-size SUV customer has changed.

“When Expedition was introduced 20 years ago, it set the standard for active families who simply needed a big and strong SUV to take them places,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president of The Americas. “Today’s families want even more smart technology to help them cover more ground safely, more efficiently, and more comfortably – all while staying connected to friends and family.”

Power & Performance

Ford is utilizing their ever popular and ever powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost for the 2018 Expedition. The engine is standard with Auto Start-Stop and a new, class-exclusive 10-speed automatic transmission. A newly available electronic limited-slip differential on models with Intelligent 4WD improves off-road capability by sending power where it’s needed most.

An all-new Terrain Management System provides drive modes for better performance, depending on the conditions. The range is pretty extensive, from normal, around-town driving to more demanding situations like heavy towing and hauling. Eco mode is pretty straight forward (fuel conservation) as is sport mode (not so much fuel conserved). Individual settings exist for a variety of surfaces from grass, gravel, snow, and mud, to ruts, dips, and other uneven surfaces.

Like its F-Series counterpart, the 2018 Ford Expedition utilizes a high-strength, aluminum-alloy body and redesigned high-strength steel frame. The combination, like in the F-Series, gives the new Expedition a solid foundation on which to stand. With the strategic choice and placement of materials, the 2018 Ford Expedition dropped 300 lbs., and engineers reinvested weight where it matters most in terms of technology and performance. In essence, tow capacity and off-road capability are increased from the prior generation.

With the 3.5-liter EcoBoost and class-exclusive 10-speed automatic transmission, the 2018 Ford Expedition is expected to deliver the best towing capability of any full-size SUV. Photo: Ford Motor Company.

Useful Tools

The 2018 Ford Expedition features a class-exclusive, enhanced active park assist and an available 360-degree camera. With a vehicle as large as the Expedition, these two items may come in handy in a busy parking lot. Once underway, lane-keeping aid will reduce unwanted drifting while a collision avoidance detection system monitors other vehicles and pedestrians. Two other tech items, adaptive cruise control and a Blind Spot Information System, ease stress and increase safety.

To help with backing a trailer, the 2018 Ford Expedition features Pro Trailer Backup Assist. According to Ford’s research, more than 50 percent of Expedition customers will use the vehicle for towing, and 15 percent say they tow monthly, even weekly.

Useful Tech

Keeping up with a busy family is no easy chore but the 2018 Ford Expedition seems up to the task. Inside is wireless mobile charging, the first Ford vehicle to use such a feature interesting enough. Once your device is charged via the pad in the center console, you can connect it and ten others to the Expedition’s Wi-Fi hotspot, which is active up to 50 feet from the vehicle. On a longer drive, the rear seat entertainment system allows passengers to view their home cable programming on either of two video screens or hand-held devices.

Additional connectivity comes from Ford’s SYNC 3 and SYNC Connect. The latter connects with FordPass so owners can start, lock, unlock, and locate their Expedition from anywhere. It also saves important diagnostic information.

An advanced cargo manager provides an adjustable shelf behind the third row. Photo: Ford Motor Company.

Interior Treatments

Ford puts a lot of emphasis on the interior comfort of the 2018 Expedition. The automaker says the interior is both roomy and flexible, with seating for eight, plus their cargo. Ford even says adults will appreciate the additional legroom and reclining seats in the third row. Each row provides power too, with four 12-volt power points, six USB chargers, and a 110-volt power outlet.

Getting in should be a breeze as the 2018 Ford Expedition is the first full-size utility with a sliding second-row seat. The “tip-and-slide” feature should make accessing the third row easy. The second-and third-row seats fold flat via a button which opens up the cargo area substantially. With the seats folded, a trip to the hardware store is no problem since the cargo area will accommodate 4×8-foot sheets of plywood.

Two of our favorite interior treatments include the panoramic vista roof and the 12-speaker B&O PLAY premium audio system. The panoramic vista roof spans two rows – the stereo plays music that spans decades. They are both very nice touches for this vehicle.

The 2018 Ford Expedition arrives this fall but prior to that, it’s on display at the Chicago Auto Show.

Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.