2019 Genesis G70 Racks Up Features But Easy On Price

2019 Genesis G70 Racks Up Features But Easy On Price The 2019 Genesis G70 offers two engines and six different trim levels. 
A special manual transmission Sport package is available starting at $34,900. 
As Genesis begins making more headway in the luxury car market, how will they stand up? 
Genesis, the Hyundai sub-brand that is to the Korean automaker what Lexus, Acura, and Infiniti are to their Japanese parents, just announced pricing for its G70. The 2019 Genesis G70 is aimed squarely at competitors like the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Unlike those heavyweights, the G70 costs about as much as a minivan.
Look, I’m going to be right up front here: The Genesis G70 is a very good car, but no one is going to be pining for it like a long lost love 50 years from now. Competence only gets you so far. It gets you loyalty and devotion, but it rarely gets you love.
Then again, competence can earn you lots of sales.
Trim Levels & Engines
The 2019 Genesis G70, which has been on sale in its home market for a while, is now available in the United States. You get your choice of two engines. Either a 2.0T inline four-cylinder turbo, or a 3.3T V6 twin-turbo mill. If you go with the 2.0 four-banger, you get your choice of six liberally equipped trim levels, starting at $34,900.
Trim levels include Advanced, Elite, Prestige, Dynamic, Sport, and Sport M/T.
The 3.3T plant gets four trim levels, plus two limited-production Special Edition models, all starting at $43,750. These are tagged as Advanced, Elite, Prestige, and Sport. The limited-production 3.3T packages are called Dynamic Special Edition and Design Special Edition. Yes, that’s pretentious, but if you’re angling for the perspective Mercedes or BMW driver, a little pretention is probably called for.
For some reason, Genesis is limiting the production on these to only 400 units.
Well, at least “limited” is not just a sticker they slap on the bumper.
Exterior features include LED daytime running lights and heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals. Photo: Genesis Motor America, LLC.
Point Blank Performance
Power-wise, the engines are pretty impressive. The 2.0T four-cylinder turbo puts out 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. of torque. That’s a lot of muscle squeezed from a half gallon of displacement. The 3.3T is similarly impressive, with 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft. of torque on tap. Thank you Genesis.
Across all the trim levels, there’s a lot of overlap in terms of features. So let’s just look at either end of the G70 spectrum.
At the low end (and I’m using that term relatively here), the 2.0T Advanced RWD comes with Shift-by-Wire technology, held up by a MacPherson strut front and a multi-link rear suspension. The power-steering system is rack-mounted and motor-driven. Wheels are 18-inch alloys with Michelin all-season P225/45R18 tires. An eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters and rev match is available.
The brakes are ventilated, of course.





The 3.3T is impressive, with 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft. of torque on tap. Thank you Genesis.Click To TweetInterior Comforts & Tech Treatments
The interior features stainless steel front door sill plates, dual automatic climate controls, a 12-way power driver’s seat (including four-way lumbar), and an eight-way power passenger seat. Perforated leather wraps the tilting and telescoping steering wheel and shift knob. The front vanity mirrors are illuminated and have sliding sun visors.
There’s also a front map and pin light (not sure what that is). The rear seat is a 60/40 split-folding deal. Audio, cruise, and phone controls are located on the steering wheel.
There’s a rearview camera with parking guidelines and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with HomeLink. Leatherette seating surfaces, rear folding armrest with cup holders, and a Bluetooth hands-free phone system are included. Multimedia? Tons: HD Radio, seven-inch color LCD multi-information screen, two front USB ports, and another one in the rear. There is even Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Remember, this is lowest level of stuff (and there’s even more yet). You get all of this on a 2019 Genesis G70 starting right around $35,000! Well, tack on another $995 for destination, but still.





And There’s More . . .
The 3.3T models add stuff like a multi-plate type limited-slip differential, Brembo brakes, dual exhaust, a sport-tuned suspension, alloy pedals, and full LED headlights. And the Genesis logo approach lights too (show offs!). Along with the navigation, there is something called the “front passenger seat walk-in device.” No, I don’t know either.
But there is also a high-zoot Lexicon 15-speaker audio system with Quantum Logic Surround and Clari-Fi Music Restoration Technology.
Price Range
The aforementioned 2.0T Advanced RWD starts at $34,900 with the Dynamic AWD Launch Edition running $52,250 at the top of the mountain. In the middle of the range are the 3.3T Advanced RWD and AWD at $34,750 and $45,750 respectively.
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
2019 Genesis G70 Gallery




















Photos & Source: Genesis Motor America, LLC.



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2019 Subaru BRZ: Still Lacking Power, But Still Good Enough

2019 Subaru BRZ: Still Lacking Power, But Still Good Enough Nice as it would be, the 2019 Subaru BRZ does not see a horsepower increase.
But maybe that’s okay? There are lots of other things to love about this new Subaru.   
Subaru is upping the ante with the introduction of the 2019 BRZ. More power right?! No, just kidding. Instead of tooling around with the 2.0-liter Boxer engine, Subaru decided a limited edition trim was enough.
The new “Series.Gray” includes wheel upgrades, a new paint color, and blacked-out exterior badges.
2019 Subaru BRZ Breakdown
The base BRZ Premium comes with LED headlights, power door locks and side mirrors, rear vision camera, engine immobilizer, and keyless entry. The Premium model adds a welcome lighting system to greet you when approaching the vehicle. Dual USB ports, a 6.2-inch touchscreen audio display with eight speakers, and Bluetooth capability are standard across the range.
Don’t forget the leather steering wheel, and leather accents for the door trim, shifter, and center console.
All in all, not bad. The 2019 Subaru BRZ Premium starts just under $26,000. In truth, I would pay more in exchange for a more powerful and responsive Boxer motor. For the money, the Limited trim offers better value for $28,000 and change. It adds LED fog lights, keyless access with push-button start, Alcantara seats with leather-trimmed bolsters and heating, courtesy lights, and an illuminated vanity mirror for passengers.
Standard on the Limited is Subaru Starlink. It comes with a larger seven-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system supports SiriusXM radio and a voice-activated navigation system.
2019 Subaru BRZ. Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.
By The Numbers
Also standard is the 4.2-inch display screen next to the tachometer. It provides information about the steering angle, oil and coolant temperatures, and lateral G-forces. There is also a stopwatch function so you can measure your lap times, which we assume won’t be blisteringly quick given the lack of power.
But for $1,195 more, the Limited can be optioned with the Performance Package. That adds Brembo brakes with four-piston front and dual-piston rear calipers, SACHS shock absorbers, and new 17-inch black alloys. This package is only applicable to manual models. Sadly, there is no power upgrade.
New for 2019 is the exclusive Series.Gray trim in khaki gray paint, different 17-inch black-finish alloys, and blacked-out exterior badges. The interior gets red stitching, frameless rearview mirrors, and a combination meter visor. Only 250 Series.Gray models are allotted for the 2019 model year with prices starting at $30,140.
And no, you can’t get a more powerful engine in this trim either.
2019 Subaru BRZ Series.Gray. Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.
Enough! How Does It Drive?
Same as before, and unsurprisingly similar to the Toyota 86. Look, if you are considering the Toyota 86 or Subaru BRZ, you aren’t exactly looking for balls-out power and acceleration, right? You buy these cars for the sporty driving experience, and not for the boundless rush of torque from the motor. Compared to the Mazda MX-5, the Subaru BRZ is more accurate and more precise, although it is less forgiving than the Mazda.
Do it right, it will blow your mind. Do it wrong, however, and you might end up in a ditch.
Seriously now, both the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are excellent in the hands of an experienced racing driver. Of course, you need to get the six-speed manual when shopping in this category. Unless you don’t enjoy driving (then it’s perfectly okay to get the automatic).
More About That Engine
Powering all trim levels of the 2019 Subaru BRZ is the familiar 2.0-liter Boxer-four that produces 205 horsepower. Peak torque of 156 lb-ft. comes between 6,400 and 6,800 rpm. The automatic variant gets five less horsepower and a smidgen less torque. The new Subaru BRZ also comes with a TORSEN limited-slip differential to make the most of the close-ratio manual gears.
Now, it’s not as if the BRZ (and the 86 for that matter) is screaming for more power. It’s how the chassis feels it can handle more than a measly 200 horsepower. The car feels quick but you need to squeeze the throttle to get the adrenaline rush.
Maybe a BRZ STi is in the works? Probably not.
Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.
Do it right, it will blow your mind. Do it wrong, however, and you might end up in a ditch.Click To TweetThe Verdict
Despite the absence of a tuned engine, the 2019 Subaru BRZ is still good enough. The funny thing is the 2019 Mazda MX-5 RF (yes, the one with the folding metal roof) feels faster than the BRZ. This is despite the MX-5 having a SKYACTIV motor with only 155 horsepower.
But when it comes to precision, agility, and a fun-to-drive demeanor without spending crazy amounts of cash, the new Subaru BRZ is still worthy of consideration.
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. 
Photos & Source: Subaru of America, Inc.



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2020 Mazda CX-5 Changes

2020 Mazda CX-5 Changes

CX-5 for the 2020 Edition like his will soon present before us. mid-size SUVs it will be released in mid-2019. 2020 Mazda CX-5 will get the right change the redesign is very good. Rumors circulating the Mazda CX-5 will use the 2.5-liter engine will be the same as with the CX-9. A very attractive exterior design will leave you in awe. Subaru Forester, Volkswagen Tiguan, Toyota RAV4 will be a competitor to this car.

2020 Mazda CX-5 Changes Design

2020 Mazda CX-5 is additionally laden with plenty of modern-day security functions and amenities are decent. Base Sports trim will get 7 color. touchscreen, Bluetooth, Remote keyless illuminated entry, LED headlights, Auto-off headlights Carpet floor mat, 12-volt energy outlet, 17-inch alloy wheels, Rear roof spoiler etc. Safety functions include superior front airbags, Dynamic Stability Manage, Tire-Pressure Monitoring Method.

The exterior changes of 2020 Mazda CX-5 are just not strikingly distinct from its predecessor. The newly styled grille is there at front and headlamps are sleeker and add to your visual oomph. Mazda CX-5 will be sold in 4 trims- Garand Touring, Sport, Touring and Garand Pick. The model will likely be obtainable in some enticing metallic colors. In this edition, high-quality of components used in the cabin has acquired a enhance. The dashboard is streamlined and enough small item storage options are there. Cargo capacity is superior for its class.

2020 Mazda CX-5 Engine

How about the engine, 2020 Mazda CX-5 includes just one engine, but diesel unit really should develop into out there very quickly. Until finally that, the sole drivetrain below the hood is usually a 2.5-liter 5-cylinder and Skyactiv gasoline unit. This engine comes with cylinder deactivation and with a 6-speed automated transmission. It can burst 180 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque.

Individuals numbers show that this drivetrain is neither probably the most efficient or most impressive in its section, however, the combination is great as well as numbers are respectable. The long-awaited diesel model will in all probability use a 2.2-liter and 4-cylinder and it will grow to be obtainable this 12 months on Australia and U.S. markets.

2020 Mazda CX-5 Release Date and Price

The release date of this car will announce soon at by Mazda. rumors circulating this car will be released mid-2019. For the price will probably be on top of the above $30,000. We do not have information that is so true about the release date and price of this car also, but we promise it will soon his preaching to you for information for 2020 Mazda CX-5.

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2018 Chrysler Pacifica Adds 4G LTE Capability, Expands Family-Friendly Tech

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Adds 4G LTE Capability, Expands Family-Friendly Tech

The Chrysler Pacifica’s family-friendly nature doesn’t mean ho-hum. For 2018, the Pacifica gets available 4G LTE connectivity with the upgraded Uconnect 4C NAV system and 8.4-inch display. According to Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Car Brands – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and Fiat, FCA – North America, unlimited data runs $20.00 per month.
“The Pacifica’s new, faster 4G LTE network speed creates an in-vehicle Wi-Fi Hotspot that keeps everyone in the family connected with up to eight mobile devices, making it easy to browse websites, check email, and stream video,” he said.
Features & Functions
2018 Chrysler Pacifica Touring Plus, Touring L, Touring L Plus, and Limited, along with Pacifica Hybrid Touring Plus, Touring L, and Limited offer several different data plans from AT&T. The aforementioned standalone unlimited data plan runs $20.00 per month. Existing Mobile Share Value and Advantage plans receive 1 GB of data for $10.00 per month; a single day pass costs $5.00 and a trial period for the Wi-Fi is offered.
The 4G hotspot can also stream content from Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Chromecast, and Apple TV via the Uconnect Theater system, a segment-exclusive for Chrysler. Also included is a trial of SiriusXM Guardian on properly equipped vehicles. Benefits include real-time vehicle health reports, an app to remotely lock, unlock, or start the vehicle, and a location service which tells owners exactly where their Pacifica is.





Uconnect
The Uconnect system is really the focal point of the Chrysler Pacifica’s technology-oriented cabin. In a nutshell, Uconnect keeps occupants connected, entertained, and focused. Each FCA vehicle has a Uconnect system of some kind with a range of features and services, including handsfree calling or texting, AM, FM, HD, and SiriusXM radio, Bluetooth capability, and USB and AUX Ports. The Uconnect navigation provides detailed maps and turn-by-turn directions.
The most elaborate entertainment aspect of Uconnect is the available, built-in theater system in the Pacifica. Passengers can do everything from watching movies to playing games. There are two high-definition, 10-inch touchscreens and just about any device can be paired to the system via a USB or HDMI interface. For supported Android devices, content can now be streamed to the Uconnect Theater screens.
New Vision
This latest generation of the Chrysler Pacifica was revealed at the 2016 North American International Auto Show. The vehicle was completely re-engineered and re-imagined with more than 100 available safety features, a hybrid option, and an electrified variant that achieves 84 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) in electric-only mode and 33 miles of all-electric range. For those of us who grew up in the heyday of Chrysler minivans, they sure have changed a lot since then, to say the least.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 
2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: Photo: FCA US LLC.
Photos: FCA US LLC.



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Categories of Cool: The Case For Automotive Art

Categories of Cool: The Case For Automotive Art

Cars are a fascinating subject, filled with history, contradiction, and wonderfully enigmatic stories. The utility of the automobile strongly contributes to the contradictory nature. Few other machines come to mind that are so widely used by the public for their utility. On the other hand, there is no comparably utilitarian machine that is quite so celebrated and personified.
When was the last time you heard of a local washing machine club get-together? Can you recall a dishwasher being described as beautiful, or a refrigerator as a work of art? Have you ever heard of an oven having soul?
Don’t get me wrong, I am sure there are interior decorators and appliance fanatics that could cite just such occasions, but such instances are nowhere near as prevalent as with automobiles. Herein comes the enigma; cars clearly evoke emotional responses from large groups of people, sometimes polarizing other times galvanizing. Every so often, an automotive creation comes along that the community as a whole regards it as something to behold. So, what exactly is it that makes said creation so appealing? Is there a recipe to making a cool car?
Photo: Benjamin Caschera for Automoblog.net.
Warm Reminiscence
Unlike the Utilitarian examples of clothes and dish washers, one does not have to be a fanatic to appreciate certain cars. People who don’t know motor oil from blinker fluid will most likely find a specific model of car they are drawn to. Nostalgia undoubtedly plays a large role in the appeal for many individuals. Perhaps a beloved uncle owns a 1956 Chevy Bel Air and, when you see one, it brings back memories of that time your whole family piled in and drove to the annual hot air balloon rally.
Maybe your great grandmother owned a classic two-tone 1964 Volkswagen Beetle, so the very thought of one stirs the loving emotion that used to envelop your heart when she would tenderly smile while sneaking you a bit of fine Swiss chocolate, as your parent’s attention was directed elsewhere. It’s quite unlikely that a refrigerator will illicit similar reactions.
Photo: Benjamin Caschera for Automoblog.net.
Jet Fighter Formula
Wistful memories aside, some automotive fabrications have an intrinsic charm that allures an overwhelming number of people. Could it be purely aesthetic? Could a designer simply hit all the right visual ques and make a car a legend remembered for all eternity as a work of art? The Jaguar E-type is a fine example, a historically beautiful object of vehicular refinement. The man responsible for this conception, Malcolm Sayer, was outwardly influenced by the aviation community (of which he was a member), heavily integrating cutting edge aerodynamics and sleek jet fighter designs. The overall appearance was equally as important as the performance, which for its day, was tremendous (and it’s still a blast to drive).
To this day, the E-type is considered by many to be one of, if not the most beautiful car ever made. Enzo Ferrari himself has been quoted saying so. It is hard to argue against, with the calculated balance, formulaic curves, and mathematical proportions seamlessly molded together with elegant flowing lines. This Jag is so visually appealing that it’s one of only two road cars in the New York Museum of Modern Art’s permanent design collection. If there is a formula for beauty, Sayer may have discovered it.
Photo: Benjamin Caschera for Automoblog.net.


Breakneck Beauty
One could argue the E-Type was beloved not just because of its astounding beauty; the E-Type was also faster than the Ferrari 250 GT and for a third of the cost. From the very inception of the automobile, masterful feats of engineering have produced high speed machines that continue to be uniformly glorified. For example, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL, Aston’s DB4, Lamborghini Miura, Ferrari GTO 288, Porsche 959, Ferrari F40, and the McLaren F1 are some of the most heralded cars ever made.
Once again, these cars are not simply stunning, but at the time of their introduction, each was the fastest road going vehicle in production.
Today, some cars reach levels of speed and quickness that is purely astonishing. It seems every new sports car hits 60 in a blistering 3 seconds or less, and any car with a top speed under 200 is child’s play. A car like the Bugatti Veyron SS is not universally regarded as pretty, however when looking at the engineering alone, denying the cool factor is challenging to say the least: 1,200 horsepower produced by a W16 engine, coupled to a four turbo induction system. That is SIXTEEN cylinders! FOUR TURBOS! More horsepower than TWO Ferrari 458s. It is an automotive marvel that is undeniably cool from many perspectives.
Although this is not a Bugatti, the equally impressive SSC Ultimate Aero was the top speed title holder successor to the Veyron and predecessor to the Veyron SS. Photo: Benjamin Caschera for Automoblog.net.
Humble Designs
What about cars that are neither attractive nor powerful, yet garner mass followings? The VW Beetle may fall into this category – its simple design is anything but striking, and why would it be? “The people’s car” began life with a whopping 25 horsepower, but by the time its run concluded, more than 21 million examples had rolled off the many production lines across the globe. And in over the sixty years of manufacturing, the power had only been increased by another 25 horsepower. Although the flat four cylinder rear mounted engine is interesting, it’s far from a technological wonder, but nevertheless, the bug is revered worldwide.
Less extreme cases that may fall into this paradigm consist of the Mazda Miata (MX-5), Subaru WRX, Volkswagen MKII Golf/ Jetta, BMW E30, Datsun 510, and many, many more. None of these cars have the sex appeal of the Jag, or the herculean power of the Veyron, yet throngs of folks adore and praise these seemingly mundane vehicles.
Photo: Benjamin Caschera for Automoblog.net.
Automotive Cuisine
If you have driven any of the “under powered” and plainly stylized cars mentioned, you’ll notice one common thread: regardless of drivetrain these cars are just plain fun. The bug’s charm is its simplicity; you truly feel the mesh of the gears engage with each shift as the tiny motor chugs along. Subaru’s legendary AWD inspires superhero like confidence in any weather. If you can drive a Mazda Miata through a twisty chicane without an ear to ear grin, you may want to check your pulse for signs of life.
These cars each have a different personality; some exude a certain magic at a mere glance, while the true essence of others is not revealed until driven. Furthermore, what some find attractive, others find repulsive. The recipe it would then seem is as varied as the multiplicity of cars ever created. Does all this conjecture mean there is no recipe for a cool car? No, it means you don’t have to eat a decadent dessert every meal, every day, or have spaghetti for breakfast. So there is no singular recipe but the basic components are the same. It just takes the right chef to know how to mix the ingredients to create something astonishingly delicious.
Benjamin Caschera is a car nut in every sense of the word. His eclectic writings range from rants on traffic and wrenching on $500 cars, to adulation of the finest classic and/or latest hyper cars. Follow and heckle him on Twitter and Instagram: @TheBoringCarGuy
Cover Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.



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Ferrari Portofino Comes Out of Nowhere

Ferrari Portofino Comes Out of Nowhere

First, Ferrari dropped the 812 Superfast into our laps with zero warning. No rhyme or reason, just sort of, “oh, here’s the most powerful front-engined V12 car we’ve ever made, hope you enjoy it.” And now they’ve up and done the same thing with this: The front-engined, V8 Portofino. The Portofino will be the “entry-level” Ferrari, and, leave it to Maranello to have their basic model crank out 600 horsepower. The Portofino is also the replacement for the now-outgoing Ferrari California T.
California Dreamin’
Speaking of the soon-to-be-gone Ferrari California T, I bet resale value on those just dropped like an anchor without a chain. For some reason the California was a problematic car for Ferrari. It was tagged fairly early on as the car the plastic surgeon’s third trophy wife would drive. A pity, really, since the Ferrari California was actually kind of fast and stylish and all that. But when you’re stable-mates are the likes of 430 Scuderias, it’s hard not to pale in comparison.
Now, the new Ferrari Portofino looks to burnish away any of those negative thoughts. Yes, it is rather “soft” and Ferrari states this up front: “a GT that represents a unique combination of sportiness, elegance, and on-board comfort.” But a lot of comfort and convenience features and packaging compromises can be overcome by a twin-turbo V8 plant cranking out 600 ponies, no?
In case you didn’t know, the Ferrari Portofino is named after this utterly charming little Italian tourist town that was sort of a haven for the well-healed many decades ago. Ferrari has even gone so far as to come up with a new shade of red: Rosso Portofino.
Photo: Ferrari S.p.A.
Interior Design
The Ferrari Portofino is, in many respects, an improved version of the California T. It has a retractable hard top, a sizeable trunk, and a roomy cockpit. The inside is, sadly for the likes of a gearhead like me, anything but Spartan and race-oriented. There’s an overall focus on comfort along with a slew of new tech and comfort features. There’s an infotainment system with a 10.2-inch touchscreen, a new air conditioning system and steering wheel, and 18-way adjustable seats with a new backrest design.
There are even two rear seats that Ferrari says are “suitable for short trips” but, in actuality, are little more than upholstered luggage space. The only people who could fit back there would be legless dwarves, but I am not here to judge you, or your lifestyle choices or make comments on why you would need a second legless dwarf when most of us make do with just one.
Moving on . . .
Photo: Ferrari S.p.A.
Power & Performance
That 600 horsepower – actually 600 cv, which works out to around 592 horsepower – is capable of firing this thing from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.5 seconds. Not bad for “entry level.” That V8 turbo puts out 40 cv more than the California T, thanks to new components and engine management software calibration. Maximum speed is said to be greater than 198 mph, which is probably a lot of fun with that top down, as Ferrari points out: “The characteristic Ferrari V8 soundtrack has also been further enhanced and can be fully appreciated, particularly in top-down driving.”
The V8 has also been worked over in relation to being better all around. More power, lighter weight, and more efficient. There’s all-new pistons, con-rods, and a new intake system design. The exhaust system geometries have been reworked and a new, one-piece-cast exhaust header reduces power loss, improves throttle response, and zeros out turbo lag. Variable Boost Management adjusts torque delivery to suit the selected gear for greater levels of acceleration and lower fuel consumption.
For the first time on this type of Ferrari, Portofino buyers will get the benefit of the third generation electronic rear differential (E-Diff3) integrated with the F1-Trac. This is, as the name implies, track derived wizardry that puts the power down to the ground with no muss, no fuss, and all go.
Photo: Ferrari S.p.A.


Steering & Suspension
The Portofino also carries electric power steering, dropping the steering ratio by seven percent for more response and is fully integrated with the E-Diff3. The shocks are trick magnetorheological units (say that three times real fast) with dual-coil technology to reduce roll and absorb uneven road surfaces.
Aerodynamics & Chassis
The Ferrari Design department worked closely with the Aerodynamics department (that would be the people with three wind tunnels, CFD server farms that draw power straight from a hydroelectric dam, and work on the aero of F1 cars as their main gig) to ensure maximum aerodynamic efficiency while also looking like Monica Bellucci’s prettier sister. Further, the Portofino’s chassis is all-new and features significant weight savings over the California T. All the chassis and body-in-white components have been redesigned with a critical eye to weight reduction and increased torsional rigidity
The Ferrari Portofino will make its world debut at the Frankfurt International Motor Show beginning on September 14th.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias toward lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.





Photos & Source: Ferrari S.p.A.



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2020 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel: A Brief Look At The Changes & Updates

2020 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel: A Brief Look At The Changes & Updates The 2020 Ram 1500 receives a more powerful EcoDiesel engine. 
Horsepower and torque increase by eight and 14 percent respectively. 
The Italian-built diesel mill will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year.   
The redesigned 2019 Ram 1500 remains a tough, durable, and smooth-riding truck. However, it came to market without the previously optional 3.0-liter diesel V6, more commonly known as the EcoDiesel. But it’s not the end of the world. The Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 and 5.7-liter Hemi are still worthy of praise. However, one can’t help but wonder why Ram is holding back on the EcoDiesel.
Is it a matter of waiting for the right time to strike?
Maybe.
After Ford and GM’s announcement of new light-duty diesel engines, along comes Ram with their V6 EcoDiesel. Coincidence? Maybe, maybe not. Still, it’s no surprise the 2020 Ram 1500’s new diesel motor is more powerful and torquey than the one it replaces.
The EcoDiesel Has More Power & Torque
Ram uses the same 3.0-liter displacement as before, albeit re-tuned to churn out 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft. torque. By comparison, the previous EcoDiesel produced 20 less horsepower and 60 lb-ft. less torque. Thank you, Ram (said every diesel truck buyer).
The engine is fitted with a forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods. It’s a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder and a 60-degree angle between the cylinder banks. Ram opted for a compacted graphite iron block, which weighs less than grey cast iron.
This hike in power is courtesy of lighter aluminum pistons, redesigned intake ports, and new high-pressure fuel injection and EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) systems. Ram also threw in a water-cooled VGT turbocharger with variable vanes. And by changing the compression ratio to 16.0:1 from 16.5:1, Ram was able to coax the EcoDiesel into producing more power at higher engine speeds.
The high-pressure (29,000 psi/2,000 bar) fuel injector nozzles were redesigned to match the newly-optimized combustion chamber. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Ram 1500 EcoDiesel: How Does It Compare To Ford & Chevy?
It’s actually pretty good. If the numbers stay where they are, Ram will have the advantage in the torque department for half-ton trucks. The 3.0-liter Power Stroke diesel V6 in the Ford F-150 is good for 250 horsepower and 440 lb-ft. of torque. The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel has 10 more horsepower and 40 more lb-ft. of torque.
On the other hand, the Chevy Silverado’s 3.0-liter Duramax (in-line six) churns out 277 horsepower, which tops the EcoDiesel’s 260 rating. The Duramax Silverado 1500 produces 460 lb-ft. of torque, a healthy number but still 20 lb-ft. shy of the EcoDiesel. When compared to the Duramax Silverado, Ram’s mill has more on the low end.
There is some variance as to what point these trucks hit their peak torque. For example, the new EcoDiesel produces its peak torque at 1,600 rpm. And while GM’s mill peaks earlier at 1,500 rpm, it does best Ford’s Power Stroke, which comes higher at 1,750 rpm.
The EcoDiesel uses a forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods for strength and durability. The aluminum alloy pistons are cooled on the underside via oil jets. Heat-treated aluminum cylinder heads use individual bearing caps to reduce friction and minimize NVH. The chain-driven overhead camshafts employ roller-finger followers. Photo: FCA US LLC.
The 2020 Ram 1500 Can Move Mountains
Well, not exactly a real mountain but you know what I mean. The point is, this new EcoDiesel will haul like no other with 480 lb-ft. of torque. Having mountains of torque means having the power to move heavy loads. While the Ford F-150 Power Stroke is good for 11,400 lbs. when properly equipped, the 2020 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel has a maximum towing capacity of 12,560 lbs.
I’m not exactly sure how to best visually represent 12,560 lbs. All I can tell you is the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel can tow the weight of four Volkswagen Golfs.
Related: “The Hemi V8 roared to life.” Our full review of the Ram 1500 Longhorn.
For Work & Play
The good news doesn’t end there for Ram fans. With an innovative coil spring rear suspension and lighter body, the 2020 Ram 1500 straddles the fine line between work, play, and everything between. It still gets the eTorque mild hybrid system for 2020 to improve fuel economy while providing short bursts of power. Ram’s eTorque mild-hybrid powertrain resulted from an extensive redesign of their 1500-series trucks, the changes of which are already on the market for 2019.
However, Ram has yet to reveal fuel economy numbers for the new EcoDiesel – just that they expect to lead the segment.
“The all-new EcoDiesel engine and our eTorque mild-hybrid powertrain technologies deliver the highest available fuel efficiency for our Ram 1500 customers,” said Reid Bigland, Head of Ram trucks.
2020 Ram 1500 Rebel with an EcoDiesel engine. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Ram EcoDiesel: Manufacturing & Availability
According to an old proverb, good things come to those who wait. Ram says pricing and actual fuel economy ratings will be announced as the new 1500 pickup goes on sale in the final quarter of this year. The EcoDiesel was one of Wards 10 Best Engines for three consecutive years (2014, 2015, 2016).
The engine is produced at the FCA Cento facility in Ferrara, Italy. The 2020 Ram 1500 is built at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (SHAP) in Sterling Heights, Michigan.
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. 
Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.



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I.D. Buzz Cargo: VW’s New Mystery Machine For The New Age

I.D. Buzz Cargo: VW’s New Mystery Machine For The New Age The I.D. Buzz Cargo has a range of more than 340 miles according to Volkswagen. 
The 230V socket provides power for tools and other equipment without an additional generator.
When is VW going to release it? They didn’t exactly say . . . 
Volkswagen has this on again, off again thing in going with the reboot of their bus. You know, the Type 2, the hippie bus. They’ve gone through several iterations with this guy. All of them would be produced. But none of them ever were. However, VW says this one is for real.
It’s called I.D. Buzz Cargo. What is this? A cartoon character?
Building A Mystery
Well, it is kind of cartoon-ish looking, what with that snub nose and permanent smile on its face. And those huge expanses of bodywork on the sides are just begging for a Mystery Machine paint job. But if you put all that aside, you can see VW is serious with this thing. As they flatly state, the I.D. Buzz Cargo “has the potential to write history as one of the most advanced light commercial vehicles.”
That’s a big claim, but does VW have the specs to back it up?
The Buzz Cargo, like other vehicles in VW’s I.D. line, is entirely electric. The Buzz Cargo aims to be the urban delivery vehicle in the coming years – at least for smaller stuff, like packages from Amazon. Think of it as the “last mile” delivery vehicle from Tesla, if Tesla were one of the largest automakers on the planet.
VW I.D. Buzz Cargo. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Payload & Storage
This concept (yes, it’s just a concept for now, but VW says they’re going to make it, honest, cross their hearts, pinky swear!) shows the path the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles division will take. Clocking in at 198.7 inches long, 77.8 inches wide, and 77.3 inches tall, the Buzz Cargo aims to be small on the outside – perfect for urban environments – while being big on the inside – perfect for hauling.
The rear overhang extends about four inches over the vehicle. Maximum payload is 1,760 lbs., or about the all up weight of a Lotus Elise.
The interior cargo space includes a shelving system, so there’s no sliding door on the driver’s side. The front doors and sliding door open electrically, via a sensor, which will come in handy. Essentially, the I.D. Buzz Cargo recognizes authorized persons via a digital key sent to the van by smartphone.
The I.D. Buzz debuted at the 2017 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. “The Volkswagen brand’s big electric offensive begins in the year 2020 with a completely new vehicle architecture,” explained Dr. Herbert Diess at the time, Chairman of the Board of Management for Volkswagen. “That is when we will be launching an entirely new generation of fully connected, all-electric vehicles to the market.” Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Autonomous Capability
Instead of two single seats up front, there’s a driver’s seat and a double bench-seat on the front passenger side. The middle section of the bench folds down, serving as a work space with an integrated laptop. If the driver is using the automated “I.D. Pilot” mode, work can even be done on the move, since the I.D. Buzz Cargo aims to be fully autonomous. The driver can activate the Level 4 autonomous mode by pushing on the steering wheel for a few seconds. The steering wheel then retracts into the instrument panel.
Once in autonomous mode, the driver’s seat turns 15 degrees to the right in order to work better with that laptop. While on the move, they can handle bills of lading and paperwork, and all that other stuff delivery people have to sort through.
Think of it as the last mile delivery vehicle from Tesla, if Tesla were one of the largest automakers on the planet.Click To TweetAugmented Reality
Important information projects onto the road in 3D via an Augmented Reality heads-up display. The information remains in the driver’s line-of-sight, allowing them to concentrate on road conditions. An integrated tablet controls the infotainment and climate functions. The main driving controls are located on the steering wheel.
The rear view mirrors are gone, replaced by cameras projecting images onto small screens in the cab of the I.D. Buzz Cargo.
VW I.D. Buzz Concept interior layout. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Does The I.D. Buzz Cargo Deliver?
Other nifty distinguishing features include the new solar roof. This photovoltaic system generates enough power to extend range by up to 9.3 miles per day. The longer this thing is in the daylight, the further it can drive, which should make fleet managers happy.
Add all this up and combine it with the I.D. Buzz Cargo’s 340 mile range, and you have a very usable option for urban delivery services. Of curse, the question, yet again, is will VW be serious this time. I bet they are. After the diesel-gate scandal, VW has invested in EVs big time. And they’re smart enough to realize there is plenty of money in the commercial sector.
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: Volkswagen of America, Inc.



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2019 BMW X2 M35i: It’s A Bird! It’s A Plane! It’s A…We Don’t Know!

2019 BMW X2 M35i: It’s A Bird! It’s A Plane! It’s A…We Don’t Know! The 2019 BMW X2 M35i is the newest member of the brand’s Sports Activity Coupe family.
But what does that mean exactly?
The engine is pretty cool – we know at least that much. 
Drum roll please because here it is, the all-new 2019 BMW X2 M35i. The latest in a growing lineup of those sort-of-SUV/sort-of-a-coupe things that are real popular in Europe, and only mildly popular here in The States. What BMW is after here is people who want everything: a car and a sports car and something swoopy and something practical and something sort of off-roady.
Oh, and the X2 M35i is small too.
So Many Rugrats
The 2019 BMW X2 M35i is, as with all things BMW, pretty capable. But, as with much of what’s rolling out of the Bavarian’s factories, it’s one of a bunch of half-way between this and that and another thing model. I swear to Kurt Tank that BMW has so many M variants and X models rolling around, it’s like keeping track of the members of the chorale at a Wagner opera.
It’s tiring and I’m not sure why they do this.
2019 BMW X2 M35i. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
BMW has so many M variants and X models rolling around, it's like keeping track of the members of the chorale at a Wagner opera.Click To TweetPower & Performance
What we have here is the newest member of BMW’s X2 Sports Activity Coupe family. The new X2 has an “extroverted” design. The 2.0L TwinPower turbocharged 4-cylinder puts out 302 horsepower and 332 lb-ft. of torque. No major engine component went untouched either. The crank has larger main bearings for better reinforcement. The pistons are new with a slightly dropped compression ratio (down to 9.5:1 vs. the previous 10.2:1). The intake has a higher flow tract and the cooling system has been upgraded.
The turbo is larger and boost increases.
All that energy goes to the ground via BMW’s xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system. The eight-speed sport automatic with Launch Control also helps. The X2 wears an M Sport Differential on the front axle for the first time ever, and features a Torsen limited slip with a 39 percent lock-up. The transmission has steering wheel shift paddles, M Performance specific tuning, and updated gear ratios.
The 2019 BMW X2 M35i hits 60 in just 4.9 seconds. Not bad.
Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Suspension & Braking
On top of the boss engine is the M Sport suspension, with stiffer spring and damper rates, and a 10 mm lower ride height. The rear axle carrier and lateral control arms improve driving dynamics, according to BMW. An optional adaptive damper suspension with two different manually selectable modes is also available for the 2019 BMW X2 M35i.
The braking system has these fancy Dark Blue M metallic calipers for consistently short braking distances.
Interior Treatments
Complimenting the exterior design is the M Sport Package, with a standard M Sport leather steering wheel, shift paddles, and sport seats. The optional front M sport seats (buy these) have integrated headrests and aggressive lateral support for both driver and passenger.
The M sport seats are available upholstered in Magma Red Dakota Leather with perforations and black accents, or Black Dakota Leather with perforations. The standard sport seats come in Black or Oyster SensaTec.
The latest generation of BMW’s ConnectedDrive and Apple CarPlay are also along for the ride.
Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Pricing & Availability
How much? BMW doesn’t say, but then again, how cheap are BMWs? Not very. Production for the U.S. market begins in November.
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
2019 BMW X2 M35i Gallery

















Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.



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