Automotive

Brabham Automotive Reveals BT62 Signature Series Livery

Brabham Automotive Reveals BT62 Signature Series Livery Alright all you well-heeled track rats, speed freaks, gearheads, and various assorted mechanical reprobates with (lots of) money. Brabham Automotive has announced all of the livery and color options for their soon-to-be-released BT62, and if this thing is as fast as it is pretty, I foresee lots of non-owners jealousy sulking in the paddock in the near future.
There will be two broad categories of paintwork to choose from: The Celebration series and the Signature series. The BT62 will soon be out with a base price of £1m (about $1.3 million in real money, pilgrim).
Further, production of the Brabham BT62 will be limited to just 70 cars in recognition of Brabham’s 70-year heritage, so get your finances in order and get in line now.
Here’s what your palette could look like.
Brabham BT62. Photo: Brabham Automotive.
Celebration Series
The Celebration Series will make up half of the production run, all 35 of them paying tribute to Brabham’s 35 Grand Prix victories over its 30-year reign in Formula 1. Clever of them, no? Each car in the Celebration Series is presented in honor of a specific race win, wearing the colors and race number of the winning car. Which, I’ve got to say is a completely cool move.
Chassis number one of those 70, BT62/01 (pro tip: pay attention to chassis numbers; at this stratosphere of automotive excellence, the chassis number is how you keep track of who’s who), celebrates Brabham’s first-ever Formula 1 Grand Prix victory at Rouen-Les-Essarts on June 26th 1964, won by Dan Gurney in the Brabham BT7.
Which, couple of things here: One – Rouen-Les-Essarts was a crazy dangerous track built inside an extinct volcano; Two – Dan won? I could have sworn that Jack Brabham won the first race for his cars, but I guess it was big Dan; Three – Did you know that Dan Gurney was also the first guy to give Porsche its first F1 win?
Photo: Brabham Automotive.
Classic & Controversial
Anyhoo, BT62/01 wears the iconic Australian green and gold racing colors from that BT7, and proudly sports race number 11 from Gurney’s winning car; and green and gold is a lovely color combination. The wing end plate features a detailed outline of the BT7 from which its livery takes its cues, along with the corresponding race date, circuit, and flag of the host country. saWEET!
Chassis BT62/03, the debut car revealed in London, celebrates Brabham’s third Grand Prix victory: Jack Brabham’s 1966 win at Reims in the BT19, becoming the first driver to win a Formula 1 Championship race in a car of his own construction.
And they are not about to shy away from any of those well-earned victories, no matter how controversial. Chassis BT62/19, for example, is all red and blue like the BT46B “fan car” that Niki drove to its only race win at Anderstorp, Sweden before being promptly banned for one of the most creative cheats ever devised.
Seriously man, that entire BT46B deal is a story unto itself.
Exclusive Treatments
It’s not just the outside that gets the winning treatment, the inside pays homage as well. A commemorative plaque is mounted on the dash of each Celebration Series car. The FIA-approved carbon fiber seat shell matches the exterior (another nice touch), while the Alcantara interior trim is finished with contrast stitching (ditto).
Photo: Brabham Automotive.
Signature Series
If that’s not you, if you want something that says “YOU!!” in big bold letters, then the Signature Series will provide you with your opportunity. You get to work with Brabham’s in-house designers to plot out a unique and individual car. For example, the BT62 that was unveiled recently in Adelaide, South Australia showed a new race-inspired livery of white and green with bold orange accents. That car rode on optional race wheels finished in silver.
Other options available to BT62 owners are a full-visual carbon fiber pack, an additional carbon fiber seat shell to accommodate a passenger (if one must), as well as the ability to configure the track-only (sniff) racer as left or right-hand drive. Brabham is working with Microsoft’s mixed-reality technology to allow owners to configure, customize, and visualize their BT62 without having to see it in the flesh.
Perfect Storm
If this is anything like the racers Jack made in the past, this is going to be one serious car to covet. There are only two things standing in my way: a license plate and 1.3 million bucks. Sigh.
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. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz
Brabham BT62 Gallery

Photos & Source: Brabham Automotive.

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2018 Fiat 500X Adventurer Edition: A Brief Walk Around

2018 Fiat 500X Adventurer Edition: A Brief Walk Around The Italian-inspired Fiat brand certainly knows how to stand out from the crowd. Those looking for a completely new driving experience should jump behind the wheel of a Fiat – their vehicles, despite being small, are huge on personality.
Adding to that personality is the new 500X Adventurer Edition, which gives fans of the lovable Italian namesake another way to express themselves. The Adventurer Edition joins the Blue Sky Edition, announced earlier this year.
Black & Orange
The Adventurer Edition, based on the Trekking model, adds 18-inch aluminum wheels, black roof rails, and lots of orange: the mirror caps, body-side graphics, cross bows, and front and rear splash guards are all orange. The molded rear cargo tray and all-weather mats are nice touches for the inside.
“The new Adventurer package offers rugged, adventurous styling and yet another opportunity for customers to personalize their Fiat 500X,” said Steve Beahm, Head of Passenger Car Brands – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America.
2018 Fiat 500X Adventurer Edition. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Thoughtful Engineering
While the styling is a major draw for Fiat enthusiasts, engineers are precise about how the 500X is constructed. The engineering teams carefully design each of the vehicle’s systems and components to return a solid balance of performance, safety, and fuel efficiency.
The 500X is the first Fiat available with all-wheel drive, giving it a distinct advantage in harsh weather versus its other stablemates. Further, all 500X models include a Dynamic Selector system, which allows drivers to alter the vehicle’s performance based on the conditions ahead. Over 70 advanced safety systems are also available.
Power & Performance
The 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo, standard on the 500X Pop, creates 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque. It’s inexpensive to own and fun to drive with its six-speed manual transmission. The 2.4-liter Tigershark I-4 engine with MultiAir2 allows for a bit more when linked up to its nine-speed automatic: 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft. of torque.
The larger Tigershark engine is standard on the Trekking and Lounge but available on the Pop. We would recommend optioning any 500X with this engine, the Adventurer Edition included.
All-wheel drive models receive a special rear axle that “disconnects” when all-wheel drive is not needed to increase efficiency.
2018 Fiat 500X Pop. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Technology & Connectivity
Yes, plenty of both for the Adventurer Edition. Drivers are treated to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, Bluetooth capability, and voice commands. To maximize the jams via streaming audio or SiriusXM, an available BeatsAudio system includes eight speakers and a subwoofer.
Fiat runs the Uconnect 4 system with a seven-inch touchscreen. For 2018, improvements include quicker startup times, enhanced processing power, higher resolution, and sharper graphics.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Fiat 500X Adventurer Edition comes in four colors: Bianco Gelato (White Clear Coat), Nero Cinema (Black Clear Coat), Grigio Graphite (Graphite Grey), and Grigio Argentino (Grey Metallic). Interior colors include black or brown.
The Adventurer Edition is available for $945 on either front-wheel or all-wheel-drive models, which start at $23,685 and $25,585 respectively, excluding destination.
Expect the 2018 Fiat 500X Adventurer Edition on the market later this summer.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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Ford & Pittsburgh Launch “City of Tomorrow Challenge” To Enhance Mobility

Ford & Pittsburgh Launch “City of Tomorrow Challenge” To Enhance Mobility Pittsburgh, City of Tomorrow! Pittsburgh, city of jet packs and pneumatic tube delivery systems! Pittsburgh, city of efficiency! Pittsburgh, city . . . city . . . okay, right, Pittsburgh is partnering with Ford to work on one of those old urban city center bug-a-boos: efficient transportation.
Makes sense, in a way. Why not give some experimental solutions a go?
The Concept
It’s called “Pittsburgh City of Tomorrow Challenge” and it’s a collaboration with Ford Motor Company, the city of Pittsburgh itself, Dell Technologies, Microsoft, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, and public stakeholders. The aim is to build a crowdsourcing platform for residents, businesses, and community groups that allows for input on and implementation of pilot solutions that improve mobility within Pittsburgh.
The Pittsburgh of tomorrow will be very different from the Pittsburgh of the past, that goes without saying, but in case you like facts to back up observations, you can also take into account that a United Nations report on world urbanization found that 66 percent of the world’s population will live in cities by 2050.
So, as urban populations expand and new technologies present themselves, it would behoove us to seriously look at the way people move around cities. And if Pittsburgh has anything to say about it, it will be green, accessible, sustainable, and built around the needs of the people.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Photo: Sean Pavone.
Collaborative Approach
The City of Tomorrow is Ford’s vision for the future that seeks to understand the needs of a given population, and make continuous efforts to implement things that address transportation questions: are there more efficient ways to use bridges, how can we enable people to get to work or spend more time connecting with friends and family, those sort of questions. And rather than taking a top-down approach, Ford has connected with individual communities around the mobility issues those communities care about most.
This collaboration with Pittsburgh pairs Ford’s technology expertise and its partners with the real-world experience and the stories of Pittsburgh and its residents. This creates an opportunity to propose ideas for how data, design, and technology could be put to use to adequately address the city’s future needs.
The City of Tomorrow is an eight-month program involving residents, businesses, and community organizations, each sharing how they experience transportation in Pittsburgh, and how the current transportation available either enables them or functions as an obstacle in their daily lives. And it’s not just moving people around town. Pittsburgh city officials are also looking for ideas that enhance intracity mobility in a number of ways, such as improving access to travel information, building confidence in existing systems, and soliciting ideas for improvements to already established services.
A business man travels by bus.
How It Works
Those interested can go to the Challenge website where they can share their experiences, sign up for community working sessions, and offer insight into the variety of ways people currently move around Pittsburgh. On top of that, Pittsburgh city staff will be out at local neighborhood festivities and events to engage with residents directly.
Participants can submit ideas for accessible solutions starting on July 2nd.
In September, semi-finalists will be selected to attend prototyping sessions, as well as receive mentoring support to further refine their ideas before submitting a final pilot proposal. In the Challenge’s finishing stage, $100,000 will be awarded to selected pilot plans in an effort to test the proposed strategy in partnership with the City of Pittsburgh, Ford, and other corporate partners.
The Miami-Dade City of Tomorrow Challenge is also underway with the same initiatives as the Pittsburgh program.
City of Tomorrow. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Future Considerations
Will it work? Well, in one way, Pittsburgh is a great place to test this sort of thing: It’s old, a lot of the streets were designed way before cars, there’s public transportation already in place, and the infrastructure and its funding has been neglected since Ronald Reagan was president.
It’s not a worst case scenario, but it is a pretty bad scenario, and that should show what solutions work best in pretty short order and in pretty stark contrast. It might not “work” but it should render a ton of valuable information.
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. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.

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Letter From The UK: How To Confuse British Drivers

Letter From The UK: How To Confuse British Drivers Wales is a small country that forms part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain. Like most nations, they have their own customs and traditions. In the case of Wales they also have their own language: Welsh. Once, this tongue almost died out thanks to the ubiquity of English, but, more recently, it has had a major resurgence.
This has reached the point now where the language is widely spoken. It is part of national pride and why not?
Sign of The Times
The language is now so widely accepted the Welsh government declared all road and other official signs and symbols should appear in both Welsh and English. This, as you can imagine, was a major undertaking, much like duplicating road signage in the USA to both American English and wind-talking Navajo.
Fine for those indigenous peoples but what about we UK tourists? This is where the system falls down because the British on holiday are not noted for their common sense, or willingness to join in with local traditions and customs.
Thus, in Wales, signs to places are duplicated and by the time a car travelling at, say, 50 mph has reached the sign, the driver is confused by the mix of languages. With British drivers this is not difficult. This is why they fall easy prey to the Welsh police who are also known as “Heddlu.”
By the time the erring driver has worked it out, they are, in UK parlance, nicked by the cops.
Heddlu is the Welsh-language word for police, meaning “keeper of peace.”
And Europe Is Even Worse
On continental Europe they, like you Americans, drive on the right-hand side of the road. This has always been incomprehensible to British drivers. You can hear this conversation in a British registered car anywhere in Europe:
“Look darling, look! Foreigners! Why are they all on the wrong side of the road? And why are they all shaking their fists at us? Don’t they like us?”
Well, broadly speaking, no. It was bad enough before Brexit. Now we are the lepers of the European Union.
The French police actively target UK drivers for example. It’s a sport for them. This is because we Brits are left baffled when driving around Europe, as four in five unfortunates struggle to correctly identify foreign road signs whilst motoring abroad. On these strange foreign highways they also insist on using something called a “kilometer” instead of a “mile,” and they wonder why we seem to be speeding.
I ask you, is that fair? After all our dashboard dials are calibrated in miles. 50 is 50 isn’t it?

Turn Left, Right?
They have such odd rules. The Italians, for example, have something called indirect turns. It works like this: you, the driver, are on the right-hand side of the road but want to turn left; but in certain circumstances and in certain towns and cities, you must first turn right, go around a whole block, and then traverse the route you just came up on to finally get on the left-hand side!
I mean, does that make any sense at all?
The fact is, the majority of Brits abroad admit to having little to no understanding of foreign regulations and road signs, and few conduct any research into a foreign country’s Highway Regulations before driving on the roads. This is the British way and it probably stems from the time when we ruled the world. “Let them adapt to us,” is our mantra.
And we wonder why they don’t like us.

Language Barriers
Traditionally, when we take vacations in foreign countries, rather than take the trouble to learn the language we prefer to say what we want in English, ONLY LOUDER.
This writer, to his public shame but secret pleasure, very many years ago, was arrested with others while skinny-dipping by night in Lake Geneva. It is a well known fact that Swiss police have no sense of humour. In truth, Swiss authority generally is pretty uptight, especially where cars and drivers are concerned, so without ceremony we were duly marched off to spend the night in the cells.
It is probably a good thing the UK is leaving the European Union (although the latest news is that the issue will be fudged – more on that next time with the emphasis on a shock to the automotive industry).
As an island nation we have our own ideas about how things should be done. Is it any wonder we get confused?
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite

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If Motorcycle Manufacturers Made Cars: A Sneak Peek!

If Motorcycle Manufacturers Made Cars: A Sneak Peek! Japanese car maker Honda started out by crafting motorcycles in 1949, and the company is still regarded as the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer today. Unbeknownst to many, Honda made automotive piston rings for Toyota before shifting their attention to motorized two-wheeled bicycles.
And the rest, as they say, is history.
This is a great example of a motorcycle manufacturer who decided to make cars. But what if Aprilia, Ducati, and other iconic motorcycle brands shifted their attention to the crazy world of automotive manufacturing?
Our friends at Jennings Harley-Davidson came up with a design study on what would happen if motorcycle manufacturers made cars. Just what would a Harley-Davidson or Triumph car would look like? Feast your eyes on what could (or should) have been.
Aprilia
Taking inspiration from the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 supermotard and RSV4 sport bike, this Aprilia off-road buggy is screaming for action! And as we all know, nothing is more fun than blasting over sand dunes behind the wheel of a sports buggy. In true Italian tradition, this Aprilia car is as stylish as the Carabinieri with a splash of ruggedness thrown in the mix.
Andiamo!

Kawasaki
This sporting rendition of a Kawasaki vehicle resembles the love child of a Lamborghini Aventador and KTM X-Bow after a night of cocktails, cheese, and binge-watching the entire Fast and the Furious franchise. We particularly like the hunkered down look of the front end and the contrasting matte gray paint job with alien green detailing.
The rear spoiler is a bit overdone to be quite honest but the windshield looks enough to block the wind from ruining your selfie as you drive.

Harley-Davidson
This Harley-Davidson hot rod means business. It has the facial expression of a Ford Model T but with larger and wider wheel arches for a more aggressive look. No hot rod or rat rod is complete without a large, stonking motor in the front, massive headers and exhausts on the side, and the curvaceous rump of a 1967 Corvette Stingray convertible.
We also like the tall windscreen that is pretty similar to the one found on the Harley-Davidson Road King and Road Glide Ultra.

Triumph
English motorcycle builder Triumph is best known for the Bonnie or Bonneville which was first sold in 1959. And since the Bonnie was named after the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, this rendition is clearly derived from the aggressive design of classic muscle cars.
The front end is a cross between the fascia of a 69 Ford Mustang Boss 429 and 69 Chevrolet Camaro. Equipped with a lowered stance and chunky, low-profile tires with an all-terrain tread design (does this type of tire exist?), this Triumph car is primed and ready to break speed records.

Vespa
This Vespa car is a love-it or hate-it affair. While we did find the front styling to be a bit troubling, everything from the A-pillar backwards is undeniably a Vespa. Also undeniable is the marriage between the Volkswagen Beetle and Citroen DS. If you squint hard and ignore the obvious front styling, you will also see a hint of Porsche 911 Targa in there.
Quite interesting, this car.
But if Vespa is kind enough to shoehorn a turbocharged flat-six motor in the rear end, this could turn out to be an exciting and roofless driving experience.

Ducati
Ducati, Lamborghini, and Audi are essentially under the same umbrella. This exquisite rendition of a Ducati track machine looks like an Ariel Atom on steroids. It seems to have inherited the track-biased, pushrod suspension of the Lamborghini Aventador too. We’re not exactly sure if the height of the windscreen is enough to prevent incoming air from distorting your mug as you pile on the speed, however.
But with slick tires and a pair of massive exhausts screaming at the back of your head, this Ducati vehicle is slated to deliver a raw and unadulterated driving experience.

Vice Versa
The Jennings Harley-Davidson team went the other way too, giving us a glimpse of what would happen if car brands made motorcycles. Jennings Harley-Davidson is part of the Jennings Motor Group family, which was established in 1911. If you want to experience Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the Jennings Harley-Davidson crew in Gateshead and Leeds are always available.
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.

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Even More (Yellow) Individual Flair: 2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S Edition 1

Even More (Yellow) Individual Flair: 2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S Edition 1 At least Mercedes doesn’t call it a four-door sports car, but even so, calling it a four-door coupe is almost bad enough. Coupes have two doors. Sedans have four doors. The Mercedes AMG GT 4-Door has, unsurprisingly, four doors.
It’s a sedan. But a very good sedan.
First Edition
Fundamentally, the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe has the basic underpinnings of the “normal” AMG GT Coupe. And since the AMG GT Coupe is pretty much a beast, then it’s not much of a stretch to see how the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe should also be as well.
And just to make you feel all special about not just purchasing an AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, but buying one of the first ones to show up, Merc has upped the ante (slightly) with a unique Edition 1 model with a bunch of exclusive interior and exterior bits for 2019.
Basically, early adopters get an AMG Aerodynamics Package, special wheels and paint, AMG Performance seats and steering wheel, and Matte Carbon-Fiber trim.
2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S Edition 1. Photo: MBUSA.
Aerodynamic Art
About that trick areo package. The AMG Aerodynamics Package for the Edition 1 comes with a larger front splitter and integrated aero flics in the front bumper. The diffuser has been “optimized” and the rear spoiler’s angle can be mechanically adjusted. The rear spoiler and larger front splitter, combined with the AIRPANEL active air management system, gets you a noticeable amount of additional downforce, mushing you to the Straße.
And as your cherry on top, the AMG Aerodynamics Package also contributes to lower drag, despite the higher downforce. Schlaue Jungs.
Photo: MBUSA.
Styling Treatments
Other bits and bobs on the outside further distinguish the AMG GT 63 S Edition 1. The paintwork is designo Graphite Grey Magno with matte Graphite Grey stripes on the sides, hood, roof, and decklid. (Hey, go-fast stripes! those should add another 1 mph to your top end, minimum buddy.) There are 21-inch cross-spoke forged wheels, painted matte black with a high-sheen finish, so, you know, you look cool.
Interior Fashions (And Scents)
The interior features such refinements as Multicontour Performance Seats with a Memory Package, Nappa Leather Upholstery in Magma Grey/Black with flashy yellow contrast stitching, a performance steering wheel in DINAMICA microfiber with more yellow stitching, a racy yellow 12 o’clock marking, and an even flashier “Edition 1” badge.
There’s lots of Matte Carbon-Fiber trim, the seatbelts are yellow, and the door center panels are Magma Grey. The instrument panel and door beltline get black Nappa leather with that same yellow top stitching. The door sill panels are illuminated and say “AMG.” There are edition-specific floor mats in black with a leather band and “AMG” lettering and, well this is a surprise, yellow top stitching.
Last but not least, every man, woman, and child on planet Earth will be overcome with joy when they realize the AIR-BALANCE Package comes with a new, dedicated “AMG #63” fragrance. Take your seats, take your seats!!

Power & Performance
The Edition 1 comes with the top-of-the-range, handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 bi-turbo engine, cranking out 630 horsepower and 664 lb-ft. of torque. Result? A top speed of 195 mph with a zero to 60 time of 3.1 seconds.
So like I said, it’s a sedan, but a very good sedan.
Availability
The AMG GT 63 and 63 S will arrive in the United States early next year, with the AMG GT 53 coming in mid-2019.
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. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
Photos & Source: MBUSA.

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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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