McLaren Speedtail: An Angel In The Outfield

McLaren Speedtail: An Angel In The Outfield The McLaren Speedtail was recently revealed to future owners at a private event in London.
The Speedtail is the first of 18 new cars under the company’s Track25 business plan.
It’s the fastest McLaren in history, capable of 250 mph.  
The info on the new McLaren Speedtail hypercar was just released. And if this thing performs anywhere close to what it looks like, it should be angelically fast. Yes, Speedtail is not the most adroit of names, and, yes, it’s hideously priced.
But who cares?!
The McLaren Speedtail is the direct successor to the McLaren P1 and the spiritual successor to the stunning F1.
Chart Topper
Like the F1, the Speedtail seats three people in a triangular arrangement, with the driver up front and in the center. And, like the P1, it’s a hybrid with all of the normal Prius stuff oriented towards speed and performance, rather than environmental smugness. However, unlike the P1, the Speedtail is aesthetically staggering rather than hideous.
The Speedtail lines up against rides like the Porsche 918, the La Ferrari, and, to a lesser extent, boutique cars like Paganis and Koenigseggs. The specs nudge it just to the top of that list, which will hopefully spur Porsche and Ferrari to even further heights when they respond. Before we dive into those specs, let’s get the horrible, bad news out of the way first: You’re too poor and too late.
McLaren Speedtail. Photo: McLaren Automotive.
If this thing performs anywhere close to what it looks like, it should be angelically fast.Click To TweetRare Beast
The McLaren Speedtail was recently shown to future owners and McLaren customers at a private event in London. You weren’t there? Of course you weren’t. On top of it being secretly shown to the hoi polloi, McLaren will only produce 106 Speedtails, all of which are already reserved. And the final slap in the face: The price starts at £1.75 million plus taxes (or $2,250,000).
So, if you’re that guy from the Carolinas that just won 1.5 billion in the Mega Millions drawing, even you are too late, my good sir.
Now, let’s dust ourselves off, and dig into the techno-buffet that is the McLaren Speedtail. McLaren’s design brief here is that the Speedtail is the first “HyperGT” and the ultimate road car. McLaren says it “harmonizes sleek and seamless beauty with pioneering technologies and extreme performance.”
I know that “in the eye of the beholder” stuff, but, c’mon! Even Stevie Wonder could see how pretty this thing is!
Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Tricks & Treats
The teardrop shaped cockpit and dramatically elongated, aerodynamically-optimized Speedtail measures in at a tick under 17 feet: 16.9 feet to be exact (or 5,137 mm for you Euros). The body is carbon fiber, of course, and is the key to the Speedtail being the most aero-efficient McLaren road car yet. Even the glass is high-tech, with an advanced electrochromic windshield (windscreen, to you Brits) that darkens up top at the touch of a button.
Trick, slick, and no more sun visors!
The interior design is as sleek and modern as a sci-fi film. Gauges are replaced by three flat panel displays, or a glass cockpit, as we used to say in the aerospace industry. McLaren even put switchgear above and ahead of the driver for that UFO feel. Of course the Speedtail purchaser can trick out the interior, but customization is more than just an interior thing.
The Speedtail introduces a new standard of high-tech, bespoke customization. Among the astonishing options: interwoven carbon titanium deposition materials and digitally-embossed, full-aniline and lightweight leathers.
McLaren Speedtail interior layout. Photo: McLaren Automotive.
There was once a McLaren made entirely out of Legos.
Structural & Aerodynamic Art
Naturally, the Speedtail is all cloth and glue, none of this olde tyme metal frame stuff here, oh no. There is a carbon fiber Monocage body structure, unique to the Speedtail, that encloses the McLaren F1-inspired central driving position. The two passenger seats have enough structural rigidity and impact absorption to rival the cockpit of an A-10. Minus the GAU Gatling gun I hope.
The aerodynamics are on par with a Boeing product. This is normal for a car company with a full-scale, rolling-road wind tunnel running 24/7. And McLaren’s computational fluid dynamics lab would make the submariners at Groton green with envy. There are static, carbon fiber front-wheel aero-covers that feed controlled airflow rearward.
Side mirrors? Not on the Speedtail, boy-o! How about retractable, digital rear-view cameras instead? And the piece de resistance: patented active rear “ailerons” contributing to aerodynamic balance, downforce, and cornering.
Photo: McLaren Automotive.
And the piece de resistance: patented active rear ailerons contributing to aerodynamic balance, downforce, and cornering.Click To TweetBalancing Act
Calling them ailerons is a bit of an aerodynamic misnomer, they’re basically flaps/spoilers. They appear to be differentially articulated, like the movable aero bits found on the Pagani Huayra and the original Porsche 917 Le Mans racer. The trick bit of having two, independently moving aero surfaces rather than just a single big one is that you can differentially apply more downforce on one side of the car and less on the other.
Imagine it this way: you’re going through a big, sweeping left hand turn at a pretty high velocity, say around 150 mph or so. If you can put more downforce on the inside rear wheel rather than the outside, the aerodynamics will both stick the car to the tarmac and help it turn-in more. Slick, no?
There’s even a unique “Velocity Mode” that optimizes the powertrain and active aero by lowering the car 1.4 inches.
Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Even kids can enjoy the thrills of a McLaren.
Faster & Faster
Max speed? Sit down because the Speedtail is the fastest McLaren ever at 250 mph! The petrol-electric hybrid powertrain brings a combined 1,035 bhp to the party, about 37 more than the La Ferrari. Which must bother Maranello something fierce. The Speedtail can go from a dead stop to 186 mph in 12.8 seconds. That would be an impressive quarter mile time, let alone getting up to the triple-klick that quick.
Zero to 60 is who cares! At this point, cars like the Speedtail can hit freeway speed about as quick as Big Daddy Don Gartlits can.
Stunning. Amazing. Exquisite. Quick. I’ll take my in Papaya Orange, mate.
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
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Photos & Source: McLaren Automotive.



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2018 Toyota C-HR Review: The Stylish Gas Hog

2018 Toyota C-HR Review: The Stylish Gas Hog When Toyota axed Scion, we thought the fun models might come to an end. Enter the 2018 Toyota C-HR. The C-HR is one of the boldest new compacts in recent memory, especially when it comes from Toyota, often known for their generally conservative products.
This week, we took the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE Premium for a spin.
What’s New For 2018
The Toyota C-HR is an all-new crossover from the Japanese automaker, set apart from others in the market by its stance. C-HR, by the way, stands for Coupe, High Riding. It really isn’t a coupe but it looks like one with the rear door handle hidden high next to the roof line.
Toyota calls the C-HR a crossover, even though the new “coupe” doesn’t offer all-wheel drive. It’s really a compact five-door hatch that’s taller than most with a higher seating position.
The all-new C-HR competes against the Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V, and the Subaru Crosstrek. Each are geared toward the millennial generation. All-wheel drive is available on those models, but not the C-HR surprisingly.
A special “R-Code” designation for the 2018 Toyota C-HR includes the white roof, side mirrors, and A-pillar.
Features & Options
The 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE Premium ($24,350) comes with fabric seat upholstery, power windows and locks, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, a seven-inch touchscreen display, leather-wrapped steering wheel, cargo cover, and rearview camera. The power mirrors contain turn-signal indicators.
Our tester came with the optional Premium package which included fog lights, push-button start, heated seats, and a suite of safety features. Total MSRP including destination: $25,945. By comparison, the 2019 Toyota C-HR starts at $20,945. 
The C-HR is one of the boldest new compacts in recent memory.Click To TweetInterior Highlights
Compared to other small hatchbacks, the C-HR’s cabin scores high with quality materials and some soft-touch surfaces. The all-black cabin is attractive and well laid out. The C-HR is quite spacious inside and wider than we expected. The front seats are well-bolstered and comfortable, and taller drivers won’t have a problem finding a good cruising position.
Along with the contemporary exterior styling, the cabin will appeal to younger buyers. The central control pod is called MeZone and for good reason. The seven-inch touchscreen blends in with stylish-looking knobs, controls, and switches, and the attractive diamond shapes can be seen throughout the cabin. Diamond patterns are molded into the plastic lower door panels and even stitched into the headliner fabric.
In the back, there is seating for three, but unlike many small hatchbacks only suited for two adults, three adults can actually fit in the back seat without undue discomfort. Rear passengers sit a bit higher too, which means a more comfortable position with some extra foot space.
Cargo volume comes in at 19 cubic feet with the rear seat-back upright, growing to 32.4 cubic feet when folded. The seats will fold flat to form a handy load floor. This was nice as we transported a cabinet sowing machine home this week.
The interior of the 2018 Toyota C-HR is comfortable.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2018 Toyota C-HR is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing a paltry 144 horsepower and 139 lb-ft. of torque, coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Front-wheel drive is the sole configuration.
The C-HR gets an EPA-estimated 27/31 city/highway and 29 combined mpg. Though adequate, those figures hardly constitute thrifty fuel economy when compared to the competition. A Subaru Crosstrek, for instance, manages an extra two mpg on the highway. That’s even with a 2.0-liter engine/CVT combo producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft. of torque. Plus, the Crosstrek offers all-wheel drive.
Driving Dynamics
After settling in, we found the C-HR offers up respectable handling and road-holding dynamics. We hit the tight mountain curves near Evergreen fast, but the hatch felt secure and kept us well-planted. The ride on the highway is smooth and there’s enough sound insulation to keep the drone of the CVT down to a minimum.
Where we notice the biggest issue is with power output. The 2.0-liter engine’s 144 horsepower is not enough for the high-altitude areas in Colorado we call home. We slid the gear shift into Sport mode hoping for better results, but still came away unsatisfied. For those living at sea-level, and on the flats, the Toyota C-HR should be fine.
Because of the raked roofline, visibility to the rear and side is constricted. That said, it doesn’t matter where you live, it will be an issue when changing lanes in heavy city traffic.
We would also like to see the C-HR offered with all-wheel drive for all-weather use.
If the 2018 Toyota C-HR doesn’t suit your tastes, perhaps the new RAV 4 will?

Conclusion
When Toyota cut Scion, they needed something for younger buyers. Engineers came up with a cool design that attracted lots of positive attention and comments on our drive this week. We think Toyota hit a home run with the new styling. And it will be (or should be) easy for them to address the performance issues by bumping up the horsepower.
Overall, our 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE Premium came well-equipped. However, any of the available trim levels will be a good value for city dwellers who don’t need all-wheel drive.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
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2018 Toyota C-HR Official Site.
Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.



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What Makes Supercars Super: Yellow Compass Group

What Makes Supercars Super: Yellow Compass Group

Near the end of last year, we decided to expand into video. We didn’t know exactly how to go about it or what the videos would look like; we just knew we wanted to do it. We thought people might enjoy a video series about cars. Our publication is growing steadily and to that end, we are deeply thankful for readers like yourself.
As we have grown, we decided this year was the ideal time to dive into video.
This past spring, I met Gino D’Orazio for coffee near Detroit. I was impressed by his candor and energy. A few days later, he had a conference call with Chris Burdick, Automoblog’s Founder who heads our office in Berlin, Germany. He felt the same about Gino. We hope you take as much of a liking to him as we did. Gino loves cars and in our line of work, loving cars goes a long way.
Gino is our first Video Content Director and Host. The fist episode of our first series, “What Makes Supercars Super” is below. Gino traveled to The Yellow Compass Group, a boutique Ferrari dealership, where he met Mike Berman. In this first installment, Berman, Chief of The Yellow Compass Group, shows us why Ferrari is so special to him and his customers. Through Berman, we begin to learn why supercars are in fact super.
Enjoy.




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Top 10 Fastest Cars in the World (2018)

Top 10 Fastest Cars in the World (2018) There are many ways to judge how fast a car is. Acceleration is important; being able to jump from zero to 60 mph quickly is probably the most realistic performance benchmark, since we’re actually able to drive 60 mph on most highways.
But there’s no better ultimate ranking factor than top speed – the most unrealistic, no holds barred, balls-to-the-wall stat a car can have. Even though we’ll probably never be able to actually achieve these speeds, top speed is the one that deserves the most bragging rights. It takes huge amounts of engineering genius to produce hunks of metal (and carbon fiber) that can safely propel themselves this quickly down a strip of pavement without falling apart.
So here we are, the list of the top 10 fastest production cars in the world, ranked by top speed. All the cars you would expect are on the list, ranked from fastest to slowest (though calling any of these cars slow is blasphemy.)
We start the list with the king of fast:
Koenigsegg Agera RS

Top Speed: 277.87 mphPower: 1,341 hp
Just try and tell me that’s not one mean looking car.
The Koenigsegg Agera RS is a hybrid of sorts (no, not that kind of hybrid). It’s an Agera R at heart, with some of the advanced tech of the One:1, and some of the Agera S sprinkled in for good measure.
There were only 25 examples of the Agera RS produced. Powered by a 5.0-liter twin-turbo V8, the “normal” Agera RS only produces 1,160 hp (on regular pump gasoline, mind you), but 11 lucky owners are able to (theoretically) hit this top speed due to checking the “1MW” special package when ordering theirs, which increases the ponies to 1,341.
Koenigsegg said goodbye to the Agera in mid-2018 with the final two examples of the car, named Thor and Väder.
Hennessey Venom GT

Top Speed: 270.49 mphPower: 1,244 hp
This supercar from Texas-based car tuner-made-manufacturer Hennessey is an impressive machine, to say the least. Sporting a twin-turbo 7.0-liter V8 producing a massive 1,244 hp, the Venom GT beat a world record set by the Koenigsegg Agera R as being the fastest accelerating production car in the world when it did a run from 0-300 km/h in 13.63 seconds.
That’s crazy fast. Not to be outdone by the French, Hennessey’s Venom GT broke the Veyron’s top speed at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida back in early 2014.
This beast can go 0-100 mph in 5.6 seconds (a world record), and 200 mph from a stop in only 14.51 seconds (also a world record). Hennessey also claims the Venom GT can reach a top speed of 278 mph if given a bit more room to do it. Let’s hope they find a track long enough.
Bugatti Chiron

Top Speed: 261 mphPower: 1,479 hp
Bugatti, never one to back down from a top speed fight, built the Chiron as a successor to the already world-record-breaking Veyron Super Sport (below). The Chiron carries over the same 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W16 engine as the Veyron, but modified to produce (quite a bit) more power and a smoother power band.
But here’s the really interesting part. The top speed of the Bugatti Chiron – 261 mph – is electronically limited due to safety limitations. Simply put, nobody’s built a tire that can handle speeds in excess of 280 mph. Michelin says they’re working on it, but until tire tech can catch up, don’t expect top speeds to go much past 180 mph.
So, how fast can the Chiron go? Nobody knows for sure (or dares to try), but the speedometer goes up to 500 km/h (about 311 mph). Since the much less powerful Veyron SS below hit over 268 mph with the speed limiter removed, we’re going to just fudge it a little bit and pretend the Chiron is officially faster (because we can, that’s why!)
Think Bugatti’s just sitting around waiting? Think again; they recently revealed the Chiron Sport, and it’s even better.
Bugatti Veyron Super Sport

Top Speed: 267.81 mphPower: 1,200 hp
Not to let SSC’s Ultimate Aero supercar keep Bugatti in second place for long, the French supercar company slapped bigger turbos and intercoolers on their previous world-record-holding Veyron to produce a seriously impressive 1,200 horsepower. The Veyron SS still houses the same 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W16 engine, but now produces 200 more horsepower.
To handle the extra speed and power, Bugatti also had to revise the chassis and suspension. Only 30 Veyron Super Sport models were produced. Electronically limited to 258 mph for the production cars, Guinness World Records went ahead and said even though the speed limiter was removed, the top speed was still valid.
I just wish they would have let the Chiron above do the same.
SSC Ultimate Aero TT

Top Speed: 256.18 mphPower: 1,183 hp
Boutique supercar maker Shelby Super Cars (SSC) unleashed the Ultimate Aero in 2007, destroying the more expensive Bugatti Veyron’s top speed record. The car in question was a 2007 model – since then, SSC has upgraded the Aero to include an all-new twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 1,287 hp, giving the car a theoretical top speed of 290 mph.
Nope, that’s not a typo. It’s also theoretical.
SSC says given a long enough road, they could get the car up to 270 mph. That would break the Veyron’s record again, so let’s see if they ever get around to it.
Koenigsegg CCXR

Top Speed: 249 mphPower: 1,004 hp
The Koenigsegg CCXR is a more “eco-friendly” version of the CCX. Powered by the same 4.7-liter twin-supercharged V8 engine as the CCX, the engine was modified to run on E85 gasoline, bringing the power output up from 795 to a whopping 1,004 hp.
Although the Koenigsegg CCR broke the top speed record in 2005 on a totally unfair circular track, the updated CCXR has a better engine, aerodynamics, and, well, pretty much everything else. I’d love to see the Swedish company get this out on the VW test track, which is the same track on which the Veyron was tested (and a straight line, not a circle.)
We’re glad to see our favorite Swedish car brand (sorry Volvo!) taking up two spots on this list.
Saleen S7 Twin-Turbo

Top Speed: 248 mphPower: 750 hp
Saleen’s first car not based on an existing model, the S7 supercar grabbed a lot of attention when it was released in 2000. An updated Twin-Turbo model followed shortly afterward, providing 750 hp and a 248 mph top speed. Saleen offers a competition package increasing power to 1000 hp, which brings the top speed up to a rumored 260 mph.
Interest has dropped for the S7, but if they can come back and claim a top speed close to Bugatti and SSC, we might see some more of Saleen’s supercar in the future.
There was the 80’s retro-cool Saleen S5S Raptor Concept they came out with in 2008, but that never saw the light of day.
McLaren F1

Top Speed: 240.14Power: 618 hp
The McLaren F1 was first produced in 1993, and it’s still one of the fastest cars in the world. It also happens to be the first car on this list I would purchase if I had the cash. Produced from 1993 to 1998, the F1 still sells for well over $1 million each, and I have a feeling it will only appreciate over the years.
The amount of “firsts” that McLaren introduced to road cars via the F1 is far too long to list in this article, but suffice it to say, the British company blew everyone else out of water at the time, and it’s still one of the most sought-after cars in the world. With only 64 versions of the road car ever made, only a lucky few will ever have the honor of owning (or even driving) one.
This is a timeless car and will remain on the all-time greatest car lists for decades to come. Even though it’s no longer the fastest production car in the world, it’s still the fastest naturally-aspirated road car in the world, sporting a special BMW-sourced 6.1-liter V12 (surrounded by freaking gold, BTW) capable of biting your head off…allegedly.
Pagani Huayra

Top Speed: 238 mphPower: 720 hp
The Pagani Zonda, even since I first laid eyes on it, has been one of my favorite cars of all time. Now, while I’m not a huge fan of the Huayra’s styling (or name) when compared to the Zonda, I have to admit it’s a helluva car.
720 hp from the Huayra’s AMG-sourced 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine, mated to a seven-speed single-clutch sequential gearbox lets the car hit 60 mph from a stop in only 2.8 seconds, up to a top speed of 238 mph.
Ferrari Enzo

Top Speed: 221 mphPower: 651 hp
Another one of the few naturally-aspirated cars on this list, the Ferrari Enzo is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 producing 651 hp. Only 399 Enzos were built for sale, and as usual, all were sold to existing customers (via invitation) before anyone else even heard about the car. There was one more Enzo built – #400 – and donated to the Vatican for charity.
Interestingly, the Enzo’s successor – the LaFerrari – is only able to hit an approximately similar top speed despite begin significantly more powerful. What it is, however, is much quicker; we’re talking 0-62 mph times of 2.4 seconds, compared to the Enzo’s 3.2 (which is still ridiculously fast).
 
Pushed off the Top 10 List
Aston Martin One-77

Top Speed: 220 mphPower: 750 hp
The Aston Martin One-77 is a very limited edition (only 77 made, who’d have thought?) supercar. Originally the top speed was estimated at a relatively paltry 200 mph but later tests confirmed a top speed of 220.007 mph.
The 3,307 lb car can rocket from zero to sixty in 3.5 seconds thanks to its 750 horsepower, 7.3-liter V12 engine and six-speed automated manual gearbox.
Pagani Zonda F Clubsport

Top Speed: 215 mphPower: 640 hp
Powered by a 7.3-liter AMG-built V12, the 640 horsepower Pagani Zonda F Clubsport created ripples in the car community when it lapped the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife test track in only 7:24.7 seconds.
A very impressive car – I’m actually confused as to why it’s not higher on the list, although Pagani claims that without the car’s aerodynamic equipment (added to increase cornering ability,) the Zonda F Clubsport would have a top speed of 220 mph.
Bugatti EB110 Super Sport

Top Speed: 213 mphPower: 560 hp
The third Bugatti on this list, the original EB110 was powered by a 3.5-liter quad-turbo V12 producing an impressive 560 hp and was able to hit 213 mph – still just enough to be on this list.
But then in 1992 (a year after the EB110 was unveiled,) a lighter and more powerful (612 hp) version came out – the SuperSport – that hit 216 mph and able to hit zero to 62 mph in only 3.2 seconds. Keep in mind this was in 1992 – a feat impressive by today’s standards.



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2019 Ford Ranger Production Kicks Off In Michigan

2019 Ford Ranger Production Kicks Off In Michigan 2019 Ford Ranger Production is underway in Michigan.
Ford says the new Ranger has segment-leading performance. 
A special configuration tool for pre-ordering is open on Ford’s website. 
Pricing begins at $25,395 MSRP. 
2019 Ford Ranger production is underway at Michigan Assembly, following a special ceremony with the plant’s 3,000 employees. After an eight year absence, the Ranger returns for the 2019 model year. Ford has invested $850 million into Michigan Assembly for both the Ranger and Bronco, the latter set for production in 2020.
“The revitalization of the Michigan Assembly Plant and renewed production of the Ford Ranger is another exciting chapter in our state’s comeback story,” said Governor Rick Snyder. “This is also an opportunity to look toward its promising future with production of the all-new Ford Bronco on the horizon.”
“Ford truck fans demanded a midsize pickup that’s ‘Built Ford Tough,’ and we’re delivering with our all-new Ranger that’s specially designed and engineered for American truck customers,” added Joe Hinrichs, Ford’s President of Global Operations. “At the same time, we’re revitalizing our Michigan Assembly Plant and securing good-paying jobs for our hourly employees here in the U.S.”
Ford’s Michigan Assembly is a 369-acre plant in Wayne, Michigan. Station wagons were the first vehicles to roll off the line when the plant opened in 1957. Then in 1966, a 30-year run of Bronco production began. As of October 22nd, 2019 Ford Ranger production is underway. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
New Family
Ford is transforming their product lineup, building their truck, SUV, and commercial vehicle momentum. Earlier this year, Michigan Assembly ended Focus production, taking the necessary retooling measures in anticipation for the Ranger’s launch. The 2019 Ranger is the first in a series of all-new vehicles as Ford looks to replace over 75 percent of their North American portfolio by 2020.
“We have been waiting for this day for a long time,” said Michigan Assembly Plant Manager Erik Williams. “The Ranger is back home in the U.S., and our employees at Michigan Assembly Plant are thrilled to be able to build it for our customers.”
The 2019 Ranger is the first in a series of all-new vehicles as Ford looks to replace over 75 percent of their North American portfolio by 2020.Click To TweetPower & Performance
The 2019 Ford Ranger’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost features direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, a forged-steel crankshaft (and con rods), and chain-driven dual overhead cams. It’s paired to a 10-speed automatic.
Ford says the new Ranger will offer driver-assist and connectivity features, as well as best-in-class payload, gas towing, and gas torque. An available FX4 Off-Road Package includes Terrain Management and Trail Control systems to increase performance during adverse or rough driving conditions.
2019 Ford Ranger on display at the North American International Auto Show, Cobo Center, Detroit, Michigan.
The 2019 Ford Ranger will feature new tech for easier towing.
Availability
In May, Ford revealed the intense and rigorous testing the 2019 Ranger was enduring prior to production. Ford is currently taking orders on their website. Customers who order before January 2nd will receive their new Ranger by July 2nd 2019.
“UAW-Ford members take pride in relaunching the all-new Ranger right here in Michigan,” said UAW-Ford Vice President Rory Gamble. “Our UAW brothers and sisters take great care in the quality and craftsmanship customers will discover when they experience the relaunch of this iconic nameplate.”
“I thank our partners at Ford for investing in Michigan and contributing to the Motor City’s legacy as the automotive capital of the world,” Snyder added.
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report. 
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.



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2020 Infiniti Q70 Redesign and Spy Photos

2020 Infiniti Q70 Redesign and Spy Photos

If you are waiting for the SUV with the best performance and also great quality you might we suggest looking forward to welcoming from 2020 Infiniti Q70. This car has all the advantages that we think you will really like him. Lexus GS 350 and Audi A6 will probably be another alternative for you if you don’t like this car. News about the redesign and also some spy photos for 2020 Infiniti Q70 will be available on this article.

Interior and Exterior

How about redesign interior, the new automobile interior gives a lot of typical capabilities for modern style car or truck. For examples, there are actually energy front seats as well as leather produced seating. There are actually also new telescopic tilt steering wheel also a completely new sunroof to offer you greater comfort. In overall, the interior is superior from your outdated vehicle kind which makes it pretty intriguing to view.

So once the interior and exterior provide better enhancements, what with regards to the engine? To get trustworthy, we can say precisely the same with the engine also. You will discover two unique drive program which will be applied to this automobile and that is RWD or rear wheel drive along with the optional All Wheel Drive that’s generally known as AWD. Just about every in the program supplies its own capabilities and added benefits.

Engine Performance

How about the engine, you might obtain a hugely efficient engine setup that could make the fantastic measure of power. The three.7 liter of the V6 engine can execute generating vitality productivity around 340 horsepower with 275 lb-ft of torque. Applying this specification, you’ll be able to obtain a major tempo of 160 miles per hour.

Release Date and Price

To release date and price of Infiniti prices and also like his not yet willing to talk, but we dare to speculate that this car will be available by the end of 2019. For that price we also dare to speculate that prices for Infiniti Q70 will range between the highest trim for $65.700 as for the trims will be available to know 2020 include a 3.7, 3.7 X 5.6, 5.6 X.

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2018 Audi R8 Competition Package: Engage Gusto, Destroy Subtlety

2018 Audi R8 Competition Package: Engage Gusto, Destroy Subtlety Audi says this version is the most performance-oriented R8 yet.
Numerous Audi Sport performance parts come factory-installed.
Don’t expect to see very many of them as production will be slim. 
Audi didn’t make this version of the R8 any prettier, I’m afraid, but they did make it hotter. It’s lighter, more track-focused and, if you are one of those “performance before all other things” kind of gearhead, then the 2018 Audi R8 V10 plus Coupe Competition is the version you want.
Audi’s cars, it’s sad to say, start out as almost beautiful, but, slowly, over the generations, they get uglier and uglier. When the R8 hit, it wasn’t exactly a Ferrari challenger, but it was pretty darn good, and had tons of on-road Presence. It looked the business. It looked different from the other high end sports cars out there. Every angle seemed to add up.
But now . . . sigh . . . we get this. Fussy. Over thought out. Too many rude angles and creases. It’s not bad, it’s not ugly, but the R8 is heading down a design road it shouldn’t.
All that said, this thing can really haul the mail.
Long Words, Low Weight
Officially, it’s called the 2018 Audi R8 V10 plus Coupe Competition package. Yes, that is a mouthful, but Germans have a penchant for long words (Rechtsschutzversicherungsgesellschaften, for example) (that means “insurance companies providing legal protection”)(no, really). So let us just refer to this bad boy as the “Competition Package” shall we?
The Competition Package, first, shaves some unneeded pounds here and there.
For example, titanium backing plates for the carbon ceramic brake pads cut 2.2 lbs., which helps unsprung weight. The wheels are similar to the R8 GT4 race car, and even though they’re a whopping 20 inches in diameter, carve off another 26.4 lbs. Tally it up, and the Competition Package shaves around 40 lbs. versus the “normal” R8.
2018 Audi R8 V10 plus Coupe Competition Package. Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
This thing can really haul the mail.Click To TweetCelebrity Treatment
Audi then had a go at the aero workings for the Competition Package. The latest aero kit (full carbon fiber, of course) not only looks aggressive, but offers noticeable increases in downforce. At around 150 km/h (that’s 93.2 mph for you ‘Muricans out there), the downforce is doubled compared to an R8 V10 plus Coupe (see, long names!). At that speed, you’re garnering to 52 kg (114.6 lbs.) of downforce.
Which is like having Ariana Grande along for the ride, but without the screeching vocals and auto-tuning sins.
When the Competition Package hits its vMax – 315 km/h or 196 mph –  the new aero package is producing 100 kg (220.5 lbs.) more downforce than before, for a total of 250 kg (551.2 lbs). Which is like having Shaquille O’Neal and me stuffed into the passenger seat! All this increased downforce and aero tuning, sadly, has the disadvantage of raising drag coefficient from a previous Cd of 0.36, now up to 0.42.
The carbon fiber aero kit includes the fixed rear wing, side sills, front spoiler and front flics, and the rear diffuser.
 





It's like having Ariana Grande along for the ride, but without the screeching vocals and auto-tuning sins.Click To TweetPerfect Ten
Audi will only be making ten versions of the Competition Package, with all 10 units being identical and “pre-configured” with the same features. The exterior is painted Suzuka Gray (sort of an off-white). The chairs are black racing shell seats with red contrast stitching. Leather is everywhere, with a full leather package including the upper and lower dash, doors, and side panels.
Tunes are provided by a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 13 speakers and 550 watts of amplifier power. All ten versions will come with the aformentioned performance brake pads and titanium backing plates.
Pricing & Availability
This R8 Competition Package is scheduled to arrive next month. And it will run you . . . $237,350! Or, you know, what granny and gramps spent on their retirement home in Palm Springs.
Worth it? That’s really up to you, although, despite the look, I do have a fondness for the R8.
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
2018 Audi R8 Competition Package Gallery











Photos & Source: Audi of America, Inc.



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2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman Review: Simple But Effective

2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman Review: Simple But Effective The 2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman is a truck for the business owner who needs a workhorse. The Crew Cab 4×4 gets down and dirty by performing the toughest jobs on the site. With the Tradesman, you can carry the crew and lots of extra equipment. The 2019 model gets a redesign with upgrades making it even more effective as a work truck.
And even though it’s made for work, it’s not totally devoid of conveniences or creature comforts. This was a nice surprise as we spent the week driving the 2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman. 
What’s New For 2019
The 2019 Ram 1500 is entirely new and redesigned, losing some significant weight in the process. Ram says the new truck is nearly 225 lbs. lighter than its predecessor, despite adding higher grades of steel to its frame. Max towing and payload also increase. Properly equipped, the Tradesman can tow 12,750 lbs. with a payload exceeding 2,000 lbs. 
With the Tradesman, you can carry the crew and lots of extra equipment.Click To TweetFeatures & Options
The Tradesman Crew Cab 4×4 ($37,995) comes standard with 18-inch steel wheels, vinyl flooring and upholstery, and the Uconnect infotainment system with a five-inch touchscreen display. Other creature comforts include automatic headlights, a locking tailgate, heated side mirrors, push-button ignition, cruise control, a 40/20/40-split folding bench seat, air conditioning, and a rearview camera.
Connectivity features include Bluetooth capability, rear-seat USB charge ports, and a six-speaker audio system with dual USB inputs and an auxiliary audio jack.
The Tradesman can be upgraded with options that include a Class IV hitch receiver package ($645) with trailer brake controls, an electronic locking rear differential, towing mirrors, chrome exterior trim, a spray-in bedliner, cloth upholstery, a folding rear seat, and satellite radio.
Total MSRP including destination: $44,275. By comparison, the 2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman starts at $33,340. 
A class III trailer hitch, 160-amp alternator, 3.21 rear axle ratio, and 730-amp battery are standard on the 2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman.
Interior Highlights
The cab feels big and is a pleasing place to spend your work day. We used the generous amount of tilt-and-telescoping adjustment range to find the perfect driving position. There’s plenty of head, leg, and shoulder room in all seating positions. Overall, the inside is intelligently-designed for the business owner always on the go. We liked the center console with a large flat surface for a laptop or clipboard, perfect for writing estimates or keeping inventory.
The center stack is close enough too, putting all the controls within easy reach. The buttons and knobs are logically positioned for easy operation, just as you’d expect. Push-button start and an electric parking brake are standard even on the entry-level Tradesman.
The amount of side glass and the design of the dash makes for good visibility, despite the truck’s size. The redesigned crew cab offers more rear legroom than anything else in the class by a long shot. Stepping in the back reveals even more room for employees. When you need to give them a ride, they won’t feel cramped. The rear bench folds up easily, opening up a large cargo area for tools and equipment.

The Tradesman pulls its weight, but these new Ram models turn heads. Our pick is the Rebel 12 but the Hydro Blue Sport Ram is a close second.

The 2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman is available in two cab styles and two bed lengths: Quad Cab with a 6 ft., 4 in. bed, Crew Cab with a short bed (5 ft., 7 in.) or Crew Cab with an optional 6 ft., 4 in. bed.
The redesigned crew cab offers more rear legroom than anything else in the class by a long shot.Click To TweetEngine & Fuel Mileage Specs
Standard on the Tradesman is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 producing 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft. of torque. It comes mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. There’s a selector knob on the dash with 2WD, 4WD -Auto, 4-High, and 4-Low settings. 
Fuel mileage estimates come in at 19/24 city/highway and 21 combined for the Pentastar V6. Those looking for more power for their Tradesman can upgrade to the 5.7-liter Hemi V8.
Driving Dynamics
We were impressed with the power of the V6, especially with its eTorque feature. It’s a mild hybrid engine assist technology, and it’s new on Ram trucks for 2019. Not a hybrid technology in the traditional sense, eTorque stores electricity in a lithium battery and helps the automatic stop-start system work smoothly.
It also provides a bit of extra power from a stop and gives a boost on the highway. With the Pentastar V6, up to 90 lb-ft. of additional torque can be sent to the wheels. 
The Ram’s weight loss helps when pulling up a steep hill at altitude. We had no trouble passing slower traffic as we pushed hard up I-70, heading west into the high country. The large power exterior trailer tow mirrors made it easy to see small cars on the highway. We even had an early fall snow in Colorado this week. We shifted into 4-High on the fly and the big truck powered through the white stuff without loosing grip. 
We had no trouble passing slower traffic as we pushed hard up I-70, heading west.Click To TweetConclusion
The workhorse 2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman makes minimal concessions to luxury and offers all the things you need to get the job done. If you spend lots of time driving and going from site-to site, it’s a comfortable place to spend your work day.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Ram 1500 Tradesman Gallery








2019 Ram 1500 Official Site.
Photos: FCA US LLC.



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2019 BMW X7: The Beast From The East

2019 BMW X7: The Beast From The East The 2019 BMW X7 is many things. Small is not one of them. 
BMW’s Sports Activity Vehicle offers two engines and an endless list of optional features.
The new X7 will be the fifth model produced at BMW’s Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina. 
“Towards thee I roll, thou all-destroying but unconquering whale; to the last I grapple with thee; from hell’s heart I stab at thee; for hate’s sake I spit my last breath at thee. Sink all coffins and all hearses to one common pool! And since neither can be mine, let me then tow to pieces, while still chasing thee, though tied to thee, thou damned whale! Thus, I give up the spear!”
Yeah, I cribbed that one, and yeah, the new 2019 BMW X7 is b-i-g big. Do we really need this Ahab? Our roads will be better because of this? What do you think?
Get the harpoon.
Bigger Is Best
Yup, it’s big. How big? 17 feet long, six and a half feet wide, and standing a tick under six feet tall. Surprisingly, the weight is “only” 5,600 lbs. I say only because I was expecting something that looks like a vanadium steel ingot on wheels to tip the scales in the five-digit range. So yeah, coming in at 2.25 Miatas is a victory.
Do we need this? Of course we do. We are, after all, Americans. We like ’em big and roomy, built like and sized like a Sherman tank with the survivability to match. And boy, does the 2019 BMW X7 deliver on that.
Three rows of seats for the passengers in the back (i.e. The Kids) offer up acres of roominess. Expansive surfaces abound, large trim pieces are everywhere, and other surfaces are framed with electroplated accents, including the instrument panel and center console. You got this much canvas to play with, might as well paint on all of it Jackson.
The center console is where everything lives. Literally everything: iDrive Controller, gear selector, climate settings, Driving Experience Control switches, and the settings for the air suspension and optional off-road modes. There’s enough room in that console alone to nail a golden Guinea with space left over.
2019 BMW X7 interior layout. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
You got this much canvas to play with, might as well paint on all of it Jackson.Click To TweetPacking Punches
Okay, you ask, so this panzer of a family truck is nice inside, but it’s a BMW, what about power? Becalm yourselves, for the X7 comes with a choice of two engines: A 4.4-liter V8, found in the X7 xDrive50i, and a high-revving 3.0-liter inline six-banger, found in the X7 xDrive40i. Both gasoline mills feature TwinPower Turbo technology, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing, and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. Each system is exclusive to BMW.
The V8 cranks out 479 lb-ft. of torque and 456 horsepower, good enough for a zero to 60 mph time of 5.2 seconds. The sixer has 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft. of torque on tap, adding up to a zero to 60 mph of 5.8 seconds. Yeah, you won’t be out dragging a new Corvette with this guy, but those are pretty good times for something this size.
Both BMW X7 engines come mated to an improved version of the company’s eight-speed Steptronic transmission. The transmission has wider ratios and new electronics to increase overall efficiency.
Newly-designed heat plates in the X7’s 4.4-liter V8 enhance thermal shielding for the crankcase and cylinder heads. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Want a faster BMW? Here’s what we would pick to leave others in the dust.
Driveline & Suspension Tech
The xDrive all-wheel drive system is rear-biased for those “occasions when the driver adopts a more sporting style of driving,” which is pretty funny to contemplate. There is an optional, electronically-controlled rear M Sport diff if you really want to get “sporty.” Somehow, and for some reason, BMW has thrown an electric motor into this optional rear differential. It allows as much as 1,106 lb-ft. of drive torque to be redirected from wheels with less grip to the ones with more.
I’m sure it works like the business, but heaven help your bank account if it comes apart.
The 2019 BMW X7 comes standard with Dynamic Damper Control with two-axle air suspension. Other options in the chassis department include the Dynamic Handling Package, Integral Active Steering, and M Sport Brakes. The available Active Comfort Drive with road preview works with the air suspension and an active roll-stabilization system. Along with camera sensors that preview the road ahead, the system proactively makes suspension adjustments.
Jet Black, Dark Graphite, and Phytonic Blue will be available as exterior colors in April. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Want something smaller? The new X5 is coming and the X4 is already available.
Positive Vibes
Otherwise, the list of optional tech, connectivity, and safety equipment reads like a 550 page treatise on the ins and outs of whale oil production. But, get this: BMW says the Panorama Sky Lounge LED Roof generates a “very special and exclusive aura when darkness falls, with LED light spreading evenly across the glass surfaces to illuminate more than 15,000 graphic patterns and generate a display reminiscent of a starlit sky.”
I bet this will be real popular in Washington, Oregon, California, Colorado, and anywhere else where pot is legal. And there’s a Harman Kardon system that would make Owsley Stanley blush.
Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Tell Mr. Brownstone, the Gold Dust Woman, and the White Rabbit we will be here . . . staring out the sunroof.Click To TweetWorth It?
The megillah that is the 2019 BMW X7 is an air of Teutonic prerogative and condescension. That means they’ll probably sell by the boat-load, even with pricing starting at $74,895 for the X7 xDrive40i. By comparison, the X7 xDrive50i begins at $93,595. Expect the new X7 in March.
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 X7 Gallery
Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.



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