Automotive

2018 Mazda MX-5 RF Goes Nationwide

2018 Mazda MX-5 RF Goes Nationwide The 2018 Mazda MX-5 RF (better known as the new “Miata” with the trick roof) will finally hit dealers across the nation by the end of this month. I’ve actually seen two of these little guys in the past week up here in the Pacific Northwest, and I have to say they’re quite attractive, especially when in motion. This also gives Miata, er, MX-5 fans something they have long been slavering for: a coupe option.
Say What?
I never really understood this, but when I was living in San Francisco, the local roadster club I was in was obsessed with getting removable hardtops for their Miatas. It was the coolest thing you could do, style-wise. Here we were in an area of the world seemingly made for top-down sports car driving nine days out of ten, and what do guys want? Hardtops. So, the current gen MX-5 RF should do great business in the Bay Area.
Chicago Style
With the top up, the RF has a classic, fastback style, and with the top “down” . . . well, okay, it’s doesn’t actually go all the way down, it does this Targa-like thing. Which is good. It looks nice, blows your hair around, lets you hear and smell what’s going on around you, but you know, sadly, not a full-blown convertible. At any rate, here we are in Chicago, The Windy City, City of The Big Shoulders, Hog Butcher to The World for the Chicago Auto Show, and this is where Mazda announces the pricing and packaging for the 2018 MX-5 RF. This follows, since the Chicago Show was where the first Miata debuted in 1989 (feeling old yet?).

Technology & Available Equipment
This is the second year of production for the MX-5 RF, which stands for retractable fastback, and for this go-round, all MX-5s receive some noteworthy upgrades. For example, we have the newly standard heated cloth seats in MX-5 Club. As a guy who is currently looking for a good interior shop to install aftermarket seat heaters in his 1994 R-Package, I can only see this as a good and sacred thing. Advanced Keyless Entry comes standard on all models, along with new color options and leather-trimmed seats (also heated) as part of the Brembo/BBS Package.
Both the Club and Grand Touring versions come with standard LED headlights, various infotainment technologies, and a nifty seven-inch display. There are two USB inputs, a Bose nine-speaker audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and plenty of safety features like blind spot detection. And all that is nice and fine and true, but believe me, when you start to wring out a little sports car like this on a winding road, all that stuff falls away from “what is needed.” And “what is needed” a Miata has in droves.
Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
Power & Performance
All new Miatas, er, MX-5s, come with a fast to redline SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine that sends 155 horsepower to the rear wheels via a standard 6-speed manual transmission. And given that these things weigh in at, what, 2,200 lbs, that’s enough motive power. There is an available 6-speed automatic that people say is actually pretty good. It has those slick flappy paddles and all that, but I haven’t driven one yet, so don’t ask me if the auto-box is a good option.
As far as the RF Club is concerned, manual transmission models come with a limited-slip rear differential (saWEET), a front shock-tower brace, and Bilstein dampers. The aforementioned Brembo/BBS package includes (in addition to the heated leather seats) forged, lightweight BBS wheels, body sill extensions, and a rear bumper skirt. Not to put too fine a point on this, but this is the package to get. To quote my father: “When you have the option, always get the hotter version.”
If minimalist performance is not your thing, then perhaps I can interest you in the more luxurious MX-5 Grand Touring. The Grand Touring comes with body-color exterior mirrors, automatic on/off headlights, rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control, heated leather seats (naturally), navigation, an Adaptive Front-lighting System with High Beam Control, and a Lane-Departure Warning system. For 2018, Auburn Nappa leather is available fine sir.

Pricing & In Person
The 2018 Mazda MX-5 RF starts around $25,000, topping out in the mid-to-high $30,000 range. And dollar for dollar, they are very hard cars to argue with. You can see them on display at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show now through the 19th at the McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois.
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.
Photos & Source: Mazda North American Operations.

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From CTS To ZL1: The Story of GM’s Fastest Track Car

From CTS To ZL1: The Story of GM’s Fastest Track Car Here at home, it’s really something to catch a game at Comerica Park. Nothing beats watching one of our beloved Tigers launch a ball over the Chevrolet Fountain. Everyone cheers, water flies into the air, and a fierce growl emits from the loudspeakers. Buildings, both new and old, of a scarred but great city surround the park and look down on the field. It’s enough to make anyone love the game, yet it goes deeper.
Pizza Pie & Performance Cars
There was once a young man who played for the Tigers. He grew up to own them. Detroit can and will change things – it makes things that seem impossible possible. It’s the very nature of this place and it’s hard to explain exactly how it happens, but it does. For all the hardships this city endured, for as bad as things have been, that line extends the other direction in equal fashion. Only here could a minor leaguer become a sports franchise owner in a single lifetime. But he wasn’t the only thing here that started in an unlikely place and ended up someplace special.
A Camaro is often parked on the Chevy Fountain. Fitting. Because only here – only in Detroit – could your grandfather’s Cadillac become an extremely fast performance car.
2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. Photo: Chevrolet.
More Than Meets The Eye
Chevy’s muscle car had disappeared for eight years until a cyborg superhero imprinted himself on the legendary machine. Donning a new body style, Bumble Bee gave us every reason to get excited about the car’s return in this sleek variation. Granted, Bumble Bee defeated Barricade (a Ford Mustang funny enough) in a classic Camaro skin, but that legacy inspired the Chevy team when designing the fifth generation.
“We went back to what made the car popular from the beginning, which were the certain design ques, like the long dash to axel, the long hood, the strong rear shoulders, and the horizontal lamps,” explained Al Oppenheiser, Camaro Chief Engineer. “We kept the DNA from the original Camaro and we modernized it.”
The fifth generation Camaro debuted to much acclaim, winning 2010’s World Car Design of the Year title. That same year, Camaro landed a Best-in-Class Ideal Vehicle Award from AutoPacific. The bar was certainly raised but moving it higher for the sixth generation meant actually dropping one critical thing.
“The fifth generation was saddled with a lot of comments on how heavy it was, so we took what worked in the fifth generation from a design standpoint and we sent it to the gym if you will,” Oppenheiser said. “For this new generation, we decided the biggest thing we wanted to do was lighten the vehicle up and make it stronger and faster than the fifth generation.”
And this is where one storied GM marque arrives to help another.
“We were able to come up with our Cadillac architecture which allowed us to take anywhere from 225 to 390 lbs. out of the car from what it was in the fifth generation,” Oppenheiser continued. “The architecture of this generation is based on the same as the Cadillac CTS, so it allowed us to use a lot of new, lighter weight materials that are stronger than the traditional steel that was in the fifth generation.”
The 2014 Camaro Z/28 featured a hand-assembled LS7 427 cid engine that delivered 505 horsepower and 481 lb-ft. of toque. The Z/28 also had specific cooling systems and a fully integrated aerodynamic package. Photo: Chevrolet.
Drawing Board Mentality
Oppenheiser and his team examined and analyzed the competition, determined to separate the Camaro from the performance car pack. Once the stronger, more versatile Cadillac architecture was in place, the team went after the suspension, then the engines; and all the way through the entire car, top to bottom, front to rear.
“When we started out, we did so on a clean sheet of paper for what the sixth generation was going to be,” Oppenheiser explained. “We planned out the whole portfolio, from the new 2.0-liter turbo, all the way up to the 650 horsepower LT4 engine in a ZL1 1LE.”
Even with the promising Cadillac architecture some inherent challenges existed. The Camaro team didn’t want to add mass – that’s what they wanted to get away from, but weight became an immediate concern again when the decision was made to offer both a coupe and convertible. Oppenheiser describes this as the car’s “wide bandwidth,” which is great in terms of expanding the available offerings, but demanding in terms of engineering.
“When you throw a convertible in there, you have this big matrix of things that you want to put in the car from a performance standpoint,” he said. “So we designed the convertible at the same time we designed the coupe, which allowed us to save by not having to add a bunch of extra, special pieces to a convertible.”
The 2018 Camaro ZL1 1LE made its world debut at the Chevrolet Experience Center on Friday, February 24th, 2017 at Daytona International Speedway. Camaro Chief Engineer Al Oppenheiser (right) gives four-time NASCAR champion Jeff Gordon a detailed walk around the car. Photo: Steve Fecht for Chevrolet.
Fine-Tuning & Finesse
As development continued, details were poured over and the small stuff sweated. Every person working on the sixth generation Camaro, be it in the design department, or the marketing and media relations office, were dialed-in and engaged. The collective whole found ways – sometimes little ones – to help this new Camaro become what it wanted to be. Meanwhile, performance engineers were busy tuning the exhaust note.
“We spent six months doing that,” Oppenheiser said. “We literally spent six months tweaking the back pressure and tweaking where it opens up the valves at certain RPMs just to get that perfect Camaro feel.”
With the exhaust note tuned to perfection, it was time to hit the pavement and put some real test miles on this new and favorable sixth generation. And indeed the miles racked up on the initial test properties, affectionately referred to as “mules” by the Camaro team.
“It was basically a CTS that we started putting Camaro DNA into,” Oppenheiser explained. “I challenged our whole team: this thing has to transform into a Chevrolet Camaro from a Cadillac, but when we started driving it around, it definitely felt like a CTS.”
Slight modifications were introduced on the test mules, like lowering the chair height and raising the beltline; the aforementioned long dash to axel concept was expanded upon, and the seating position adjusted accordingly.
“All of a sudden you started feeling like, you know what, we’ve done it, this is now a Camaro,” Oppenheiser said. “Now we’ve got the basic platform to start from, we have the DNA in the car, now let’s make it perfect and push the limits.”
The 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE laps the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Photo: Chevrolet.
Over The Fountain
Camaro holds its rightful place but it’s also living somewhat in the Corvette’s shadow, GM’s iconic and now immortal performance car. And that will (probably) always be as long as both remain under GM’s roof. But there’s that element here in Detroit – that passion brewing under the surface that allows a minor leaguer to surpass the ranks of the majors, and right into the annals of history. This was Mr. I. and in no uncertain terms, it is also Mr. O.
“When I came into General Motors 32 years ago, I told everybody that I wanted to be the Corvette or the Camaro Chief; I am fortunate to be here and I love every day, “Oppenheiser said. “The one thing I always dreamed about was if we could have a car that could be called the fastest car GM ever made on the track, it would be great.”
And that happened this summer when the 2018 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE sailed around the Nürburgring’s 12.9-mile Nordschleife in 7:16.04. That proved it was the fastest Camaro ever on the famed German track, but more importantly, the fastest car in GM’s history. Oppenheiser admits he knew the 2019 ZR1 was coming but wanted that moment in time preserved for the hard working people on his team. Even if that moment was short-lived.
“I thought it was fantastic because of the pride from everybody that touches the Camaro from design, manufacturing, engineering, finance, and marketing,” he said. “Everybody walked around just a little bit taller all summer last year because of how well we did on this car and how well it performed.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.

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Inside The 2019 Toyota TRD Pro Lineup

Inside The 2019 Toyota TRD Pro Lineup Toyota Racing Development, more commonly known as TRD, has created architectures, engines, and parts for a variety of Toyota vehicles. TRD supported off-road legend Ivan “Ironman” Stewart for three decades on his path to multiple championships and race victories in Baja, U.S. off-road desert, and short-course off-road races. TRD most recently celebrated CJ Greave’s 2017 Pro 4 Championship in The Off-Road Championship Series (TORC).
And now, coming to a driveway near you – or perhaps your own – the 2019 Toyota TRD Pro Series.
Shock Therapy
The 2019 TRD Pro Series will encompass the Tundra, 4Runner, and Tacoma, and all feature new colors, unique exterior treatments, and a variety of off-road goodies designed and tested by TRD engineers. Of those goodies, the 2.5-inch Fox Internal Bypass shocks stand out the most. Tuned specifically for each vehicle, the aluminum-bodied Fox shocks offer generous but appropriate damping for a wide variety of situations, be it high-speed desert running, low-speed rock crawling, or simply driving around town.
Toyota points out the difference between the Fox Internal Bypass shocks and traditional ones, saying the latter usually have external bypass tubes on the body to fine-tune damping pressure. By contrast, the Fox design incorporates the bypass zones inside the shock. These multiple bypass zones offer a more cushioned and plush ride for normal driving, but can get progressively stiffer through the shock stroke to prevent bottoming out.
The front shocks combine high-temperature fluid and nitrogen gas pressure to improve ride, soften hard bumps, and provide better protection for the seals. Moving to the rear, the piggyback reservoirs house additional oil to increase damping performance while driving through demanding terrains.

Tacoma TRD Pro
If there is one truck that embodies the TRO Pro mantra, it’s the Tacoma. On the TRD Pro version, the Fox front shocks employ 46mm pistons and eight bypass zones, five for compression and three for rebound. The shocks are paired with TRD-tuned springs for an additional inch of lift, while a larger front sway bar promotes sharper steering. In the rear, the Fox shocks have 11 bypass zones, seven for compression, four for rebound, and are paired with the aforementioned piggyback reservoirs. The Tacoma also features “progressive-rate” leaf springs.
Other highlights include a front skid plate with red TRD lettering, cat-back exhaust, an Entune Premium JBL Audio system, Rigid Industries LED fog lights, and Goodyear Wrangler Kevlar All-Terrain tires (P265/70R16). The optional Desert Air Intake system, a snorkel-like device that runs up the passenger side pillar, allows the engine to take air (likely to be less dusty and dirty) from above the windshield.

Tundra TRD Pro
The older brother’s TRD-tuned springs provide an additional two inches of front lift while front wheel travel increases more than 1.5 inches; rear wheel travel improves by over two inches. The Tundra TRD Pro’s front shocks feature 11 bypass zones, seven compression, four bypass, to keep the truck more composed during aggressive off-road driving. The rear Fox shocks have 12 bypass zones, eight compression and four bypass. Like the Tacoma, the Tundra’s rear shocks employ the aforementioned piggyback reservoirs.
The 18-inch BBS forged-aluminum, five-spoke satin black wheels cut un-sprung mass 3.35 lbs. per wheel (13.4 lbs. total) to improve cornering response and overall ride quality. The new wheels are wrapped in Michelin P275/65R18 all-terrain tires. Similar to the Tacoma, Rigid Industries again supplies the LED fog lights, and the TRD-themed skid plate returns as does the exhaust system. The “TRD Pro” stamping on the Tundra’s rear quarter panels is a nice touch.
The 2018 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro on display at the Chicago Auto Show, McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
4Runner TRD Pro
The 4Runner receives a one-inch lift and nearly an additional inch of wheel travel in its TRD PRO skin. The front shocks employ 46mm pistons and include seven bypass zones, four compression and three rebound. In the rear, there are eleven bypass zones, seven for compression and four for rebound, with the piggyback reservoirs again being utilized. The 4Runner’s “roost shields” help protect the inverted rear shock.
Those hitting the trail will certinately appreciate the roof rack and skid plate. For said trails, the 4Runner TRD Pro features a one-inch wider track with Nitto Terra Grappler A/T tires (P265/70R17).
The 2018 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro on display at the Chicago Auto Show, McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Availability & In Person
The 2019 Toyota TRD Pro lineup will arrive this fall. In the meantime, the vehicles are on display at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show now through the 19th at the McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
2019 Toyota TRD Pro Gallery

Photos & Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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Winter Is Finally Gone: How We’re Getting Our Cars Shining Again

Winter Is Finally Gone: How We’re Getting Our Cars Shining Again Longer days and warmer temperatures are always a welcome treat here in Michigan. We had a few nice ones after winter ended, but our hopes were dashed by a stretch of rain and cold temperatures. As we waited for the weather to clear, Turtle Wax sent us a bucket-load of their latest products to put through the paces.
When I say bucket-load, I mean that. Literally.
Green Machine
Turtle Wax sent a bright green, five-gallon bucket to our office with their logo on it. It felt like Christmas morning as I opened up and rummaged through the contents. I always like having a clean vehicle – it makes driving all that much more fun, especially if someone pays you a compliment about your car. However, the first wash and detail after a long winter or a bad rain storm is always difficult. It takes some work to get your vehicle back to looking pristine and proper.
Even though I know the end result is worth it, I don’t always look forward to the actual washing. Yet, Turtle Wax made it fun, and it all started with this green five-gallon bucket that looked massive on my tiny desk. Here is what Turtle Wax sent and what I used when the sun finally came out from behind the clouds. Everything on the list below is from the new Turtle Wax exterior and interior car care product range.
Disclosure: This article is sponsored by Turtle Wax. The products outlined below were sent to me at no charge. The views and opinions expressed here are strictly my own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Automoblog. For more information, please review our advertising guidelines.
Ice: Snow Foam Wash (Hybrid)
Ice is an established line from Turtle Wax with “interlocking synthetic polymers,” an aspect of chemical science that’s actually really fascinating. This liquid pink potion is just what the doctor ordered for a bad case of road grime, and like the pink cough syrup you may remember, it smells exactly like bubble gum. (which made my day when I opened the cap).
Turtle Wax infuses special cleaners with a precise pH balance, which is where the “Hybrid” designation comes from. The Hybrid products, new this year for Turtle Wax, combine foam conditioners and biodegradable detergents to better protect your car over the long haul. Proper pH balance is important for preserving the finish on your vehicle and preventing the “spotting” that can occur from soaps of lower quality. Snow Foam Wash creates plenty of lubrication as you sweep a clean sponge across the surface of your car, making it ideal for removing stubborn dirt.
Whatever they did back at the Turtle Wax laboratory, it works!
Use it in a bucket by hand, or in a spray washer; either one will work. And you don’t need much. If you work out of a bucket (funny enough, I had one all of a sudden) you just need one fluid ounce per gallon of water. With a 48 fluid-ounce bottle, it should last awhile.
Ideal For: Washing your car in the driveway by hand.
Favorite Part: The bubble gum smell.
After a round of Snow Foam Wash and an application of Seal N Shine, our 500X looked brand new again.
Ice: Seal N Shine (Hybrid)
Another from the Ice line with the new Hybrid technology, this was my favorite in the bucket. Similar to the Snow Foam Wash, this spray-on liquid combines synthetic sealants with carnauba wax for a quick but noticeable shine. (Hence the “hybrid” designation again). Turtle Wax says they employ a “super hydrophobic formula” which helps repeal water, forcing it to bead versus spread. Only 24 hours after washing our 500X, another sudden downpour hit the Detroit metro. It was interesting to see how water was accumulating on other cars in the parking lot versus ours which was beading.
It’s easy to apply when you are near the end of your washing. Spay a little bit and wipe it clear with a soft terrycloth towel. Emphasis on little – I didn’t use but a couple/three sprays per section and that was enough.
Seal N Shine is good if you are crunched for time but still need your vehicle to look nice for an occasion. For example, meeting a client at the job site on a sunny afternoon; or taking that special somebody out for a night on the town. Run your vehicle through the wash and by the time you get home, it should be dry enough. Grab a bottle of this Seal N Shine, a soft towel, and go. Within 10 to 15 minutes, you’ve got the shine you need for a presentable vehicle.
Ideal For: Providing that last bit of shine after a good wash.
Favorite Part: Perfect for when you don’t have much time.
Seal N Shine is good if you are crunched for time but still need your vehicle to look nice for an occasion.
Scratch: Repair & Renew
This is meant to remove minor scratches, swirl marks, and paint transfers. It’s a traditional Turtle Wax product that actually works in non-traditional places, I found. Earlier this year, I was cleaning out my storage unit and while unloading the back end of our 500X, I bumped the upper interior portion of the liftgate with a black container. As I pulled it out, it caught the inside portion of the lift gate and left a solid black, and clearly noticeable mark on the cream-colored panel.
I put a dab of this Repair & Renew on one of the soft towels Turtle Wax sent me and it worked. I have tried a few other cleaners and nothing removed it, so I thought this was a long shot. I was surprised but really happy. It took a little elbow grease but the mark came out.
Ideal For: Minor yet annoying scratches.
Favorite Part: Takes off even the most unexpected blemishes.
The center touchscreen is a magnet for fingerprints. The Spray & Wipe products from Turtle Wax (listed below) will make short work of them, however.
Spray & Wipe (Assorted Varieties)
Turtle Wax sent me four from their Spray & Wipe line: Interior Detailer, Protectant, Glass Cleaner, and Leather Cleaner and Conditioner. Interior Detailer is a cleaner and deodorizer for most interior surfaces; Protectant is similar but minimizes interior fading; the ammonia-free Glass Cleaner gets rid of bugs or fingerprints on the windows; and the Leather Cleaner protects and deodorizes leather seats.
Each one has a different scent with the Interior Detailer being my favorite; the little logo just says “Simply Fresh” scent. Granted, it’s not as adventurous as the bubble gum foam wash, or the “Caribbean Crush” scent of the Glass Cleaner, but it’s my favorite nonetheless. It’s not overpowering nor is it unnoticeable. It’s a nice balance.
Everything in this assortment is straight forward except for one unique difference.
Interior Detailer is a cleaner and deodorizer for most interior surfaces. It even worked on our touchscreen.
Spray & Wipe: My Favorite Part
In the past, I have purchased interior or leather wipes, only to have them dry out in my garage because I only needed a few at a time. I end up tossing them at that point. This Spray & Wipe line from Turtle Wax differs in how the wipes are already dry. Instead of using moist wipes and risk having them dry out, Turtle Wax includes an 8 fluid-ounce spay under every bottle.
Twist the lower quarter of the main bottle to reveal the smaller one of spray. Pull the dry wipes from the top and you are ready to go. When finished, tuck the remaining cloths back in and snap the little spray bottle back. Simple and much more effective. You can store them and not have to worry about the wipes drying out, which is something I really will appreciate about these in the long run.
Ideal For: Giving your interior a makeover.
Favorite Part: The wipes never dry out.
The Spray & Wipe line from Turtle Wax includes the Interior Detailer. Night and day difference between when I started and when I finished.
Odor-X
If you leave fast food wrappers in your car, or spill things frequently (like me), a bottle of this will be your best friend. You can spot treat or use the recirculation feature on your AC to cleanse your entire cabin. Rather than spot treat, I used the AC option since I had just concluded a weekend of heavy driving with friends and family. Between the stops for lunch and the rainy weather, my interior was a bit stale.
To do this, turn your vehicle on and set your AC to recirculate. Place the canister in your cup holder and press the top for the desired number of sprays (one or two good ones should do it). Then exit your vehicle with the AC still set to recirculate and wait 10 to 15 minutes.
Ideal For: Getting rid of that musty, stuffy smell.
Favorite Part: Works far better than an air freshener.
An Inflatable Turtle
I said the Seal N Shine was my favorite – I may have lied. It was the inflatable turtle. Because when a man is cleaning his car, he should have an inflatable Turtle Wax turtle to keep him company.
Ideal For: Sitting on your desk.
Favorite Part: Everything.
Our Fiat 500X finally looked blue again!
Protecting Your Investment
Keeping your car clean is an important part of regular maintenance; consider it as essential as oil changes and tire rotations. Americans are keeping their cars for longer, based on the latest research from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The department’s 2017 National Household Travel Survey finds the average vehicle age has increased from 9.3 years in 2009 to 10.5 years in 2017. Based on the data, vehicles in the average American household are being driven for longer; meaning they are increasingly subjected to more miles and, for those of us in places like Michigan, more harsh winters.
Consider washing your vehicle as often as possible, and especially after a blizzard or rain storm. It’s a good strategy when it comes to keeping your car’s body and chassis in good shape as the miles pile up. When you do finally get something new, you will be glad you invested the elbow grease. Washing (or not washing) your vehicle can affect its resale value in the long run. Granted, there are a lot factors that impact resale value and some are beyond your control. However, if you designate one day a week to wash your vehicle, and hit it with these Turtle Wax items, I’m confident it will be beneficial for you down the road.
The new Turtle Wax products are effective and easy to use. We were happy with our summer shine and went for a drive immediately afterwards.
Easy To Use
With that in mind: one advantage these Turtle Wax products have is how they can be used anywhere. For example, at our office we don’t have direct access to a hose or spray gun, but filling up the bucket with some Snow Foam Wash is still easy. Those who live in an apartment complex, or farther away from a traditional car wash can still readily use any of these Turtle Wax products. In other words, you can live almost anywhere and still protect your car. As an added bonus it will look really nice for the miles ahead.
I would recommend any of the above items and, if you can find one, an inflatable Turtle Wax turtle as well.
Carl Anthony studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan. Before going back to school, he simultaneously held product development and experiential marketing roles in the automotive industry.

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2019 GMC Acadia Review: A Nice Middle Ground For Families

2019 GMC Acadia Review: A Nice Middle Ground For Families 91Solid 2019 GMC AcadiaOverall ImpressionStylish and sleek.Plenty of safety features.Ideal for families on the go.ProsRide Quality Comfortable Cabin All-Wheel Drive Capability ConsLimited Cargo SpaceLacks Heated Steering WheelGMC came out with its smaller Acadia two years ago and it makes perfect sense. There is a market for a midsize SUV that will appeal to families who need a third row, but only need it occasionally. The 2019 GMC Acadia is offered with two engines: a more fuel-efficient four-cylinder, and a six-cylinder for those wanting a little extra power. GMC seems to have found the right balance when it comes to this new generation of the Acadia. And we recently jumped behind the wheel to see just how this new Acadia is holding up.
This weekend, we’ve been driving the 2019 GMC Acadia AWD SLT with V6 power!
What’s New For 2019
There are no major changes for this year, but a new Black Edition appearance package is now available for the SLT trim. It includes 20-inch machined aluminum wheels with black accents, plus a host of other blacked-out exterior treatments like the grille insert, mirror caps, and roof rials. Trim levels for the 2019 GMC Acadia include SLE, SLT, and the more luxurious Denali. Our test vehicle was an “SLT-1” trim with all-wheel drive.
For the 2020 model year, the Acadia receives a handful of new updates.
Features & Options: SLT-1 Adds Plenty
The 2019 GMC Acadia AWD SLT V6 ($41,100) comes standard with heated mirrors, keyless ignition and entry, tri-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a rearview camera. The seven-inch touchscreen allows for Bluetooth paining, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. OnStar, 4G LTE Wi-Fi, and a six-speaker audio system with a USB and auxiliary input are also included.
Our SLT-1 tester came with LED running lights, foglights, and a power liftgate with programmable height stops. On the inside, we had satellite radio, an upgraded driver information display, a household-style power outlet, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats. Working towards the back, there are middle row captain’s chairs and rear floor mats. The remote start and the upgraded, eight-speaker Bose audio system with a subwoofer were among our favorite features.
Our tester included the aforementioned Back Edition package ($1,495) and a panoramic sunroof ($1,400). Total MSRP including destination: $45,970. By comparison, the 2019 GMC Acadia starts at $32,800.
2019 GMC Acadia.
Features & Options: Safety & Security
Our tester came with GMC’s Teen Driver system, a benefit for families who have a young adult learning how to drive. Once activated, the Teen Driver key fob limits certain features and prevents certain safety systems from being switched off. Parents can also see an “in-vehicle report card” that provides insight into the distance driven, maximum speed, number of over speed warnings, and other driving events. This is a feature we think families will find value in as they help their teens become safer drivers.
Interior Highlights: Nice But Missing Something
Check out the Acadia SLT-1 if you need three-row seating for occasional use. This model offers six-passenger seating with captain’s chairs in the middle. In the far back, there isn’t much room except for small kids or the occasional short trip for adults, but the middle row offers enough room. Up front, it’s comfortable and the heated seats help, but we were a little miffed it didn’t come with a heated steering wheel for this price point. Otherwise, the cabin feels somewhat upscale with leather and lots of soft-touch surfaces. GMC uses quality materials for the Acadia and the fit and finish is acceptable.
We liked the minimal number of knobs and buttons, making it easy to figure the radio and climate control out. However, the console is very high and it limits elbows room. It didn’t seem like a big deal at first, but we found ourselves constantly bumping into it this weekend. Our guests commented on it too as we drove to a late lunch. Outward visibility is good and the backup camera and parking sensors kept us out of trouble.
With its third-row seats up, the 2019 GMC Acadia has a limited cargo area at just 12.8 cubic feet. With the seats folded flat, maximum capacity expands to 79 cubic feet.
2019 GMC Acadia interior layout.
Related: On the road with the 2019 GMC Terrain Denali.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
A 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft. of torque is standard on SL, SLE, and SLT-1 trim levels. It’s mated to a six-speed Hydra-Matic transmission with a 3.16 final drive ratio. Those wanting a more fuel-efficient Acadia should opt for this engine. EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 21/26 city/highway and 23 combined with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available with the four-cylinder and impacts fuel economy only slightly (21/25 city/highway and 22 combined).
Our SLT-1 tester had the optional 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft. of torque. It comes paired to a six-speed Hydra-Matic transmission as well, but with a 3.87 final drive ratio, which sent power to all four wheels in our case. Those who have a small trailer will want this engine. When properly equipped, the 2019 GMC Acadia tows 4,000 lbs. The 2.5-liter only hauls 1,000 lbs. by comparison.
EPA fuel mileage estimates on the thirstier V6 come in at 17/25 city/highway and 20 combined with all-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive models with the V6 have a rating of 18/25 city/highway and 21 combined.

Driving Dynamics: Sporty But Secure
Getting behind the wheel brings an almost car-like feeling, more so than an SUV. The 2019 GMC Acadia will leave you feeling confident and secure as you navigate down busy streets and highways. The Acadia borders on sporty in terms of its looks, but the ride quality is more toward comfort. The imperfections in the road are soaked up and sent away before they get to you, courtesy of the front MacPherson strut and five-link independent rear suspension.
Driving Dynamics: Easy To Maneuver
The optional V6 plant is a good choice if you are carrying more people and cargo during the week or on weekends. The 2019 GMC Acadia handles well on busy highways, and we pushed it hard up I-70 in the mountains at altitude west of Denver. After the 2017 redesign, the Acadia dropped nearly 700 lbs. and the handling benefits as a result. As the V6 responded, we could easily maneuver the Acadia and take away the open spots between cars.
All-wheel drive is a must for those living in cold climates, and we are confident in the Acadia’s ability to push through snow. Our tester came with a mode-select knob on the console that engages sport, towing, or off-road modes. Switching between two-and four-wheel drive can help save fuel on good-weather days. However, we had a late spring snow storm here in Colorado. We were glad to have an all-wheel drive Acadia when dealing with the snow.
2019 GMC Acadia Denali.
Conclusion: Opt For All-Wheel Drive
The 2019 GMC Acadia is a solid, capable midsize SUV for families that need three-row seating occasionally. The optional V6 packs a punch and, given the negligible differences in fuel economy, we would option our Acadia with all-wheel drive. On the inside, things are comfortable enough that you won’t feel tired on your commute after a long day at work.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. All of his firsthand reviews are archived on our test drives page. Follow Denis on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 GMC Acadia Gallery

Photos: GMC (additional trim levels shown).

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Automoblog Book Garage: The Life: Monaco Grand Prix

Automoblog Book Garage: The Life: Monaco Grand Prix Set against a magnificent backdrop, Monaco is among the most glamorous races in the world.
The culture has inevitably inspired the Formula 1 event, along with those who dare to race there.
Author Stuart Codling walks us through the race’s unique history in The Life: Monaco Grand Prix.
Our Book Garage series showcases what every gearhead and enthusiast should have in their library.
Monaco is a stupid, insane race. People say that now, but it was crazy back when Antony Noghès dreamed up the idea 100 years ago, and it’s crazy now. The Monaco Grand Prix is best captured in one of my favorite racing stories. In 1978, then rookie Nelson Piquet raced at Monaco for the first time. He had a rep as both a young hot shoe and a young hothead. He was brave and impetuous, and cocky as only a Brazilian racer can be.
When he came back from his first practice laps, he shut off the car, climbed out, removed his gloves, and pulled off his helmet and balaclava. A mechanic asked, “Well Nelson, how was it?” with a grin.
“How was it? How was it?” answered Piquet, his eyes like saucers, “It’s like flying a helicopter around my living room!”
And, as near as I and author Stuart Codling can tell, that’s as accurate a statement as any.
Inside The Complexities of The Monaco Grand Prix
At around 250 pages, The Life: Monaco Grand Prix by Codling is not all that big, but, like its subject, comes packed with exquisite detail, lovely images, and tons of entertaining stuff. Far from your usual dry racing book that’s comprised mainly of stats and figures (and a few expanded race reports), Codling’s book is actually about two things: how the race evolved and Monaco itself.
And Monaco itself is more like a person than a place. Dripping in personality and details, connivance and treachery; history, compromises, loves, and apathies; Monaco is, as I’m sure Mr. Piquet would agree, the worst place to hold a car race; but somehow, it is also the best place to hold a car race. If you were to try this anywhere else – and many have, on the streets of Detroit and Vegas and Miami and such – it would either fail or be mediocre. But here, on this little rocky outcrop wedged between France, Italy and the deep blue Mediterranean, it works.
Codling goes into wonderful, but not too deep, detail as to why. This strange mix that’s all Monaco: princes and pirates and gambling and, improbably, race cars and drivers. It’s an amazing read that shows how much is different, yet inexorably, how little has changed.
Monaco was not immune to the creeping social, economic, and cultural impacts of war. Chapter four is one of the most interesting parts of Codling’s book.
Some Things Are Merely An Illusion
What’s the difference between Nuvolari and Caracciola and Chiron in the 1930s; Prost and Mansell and Senna in the ’80s? Schumacher and Hamilton and Vettel today? When you think about it, not all that much. Oh sure, “safety” is much improved these days – just look at some of the shots in Monaco Grand Prix to confirm that. But c’mon, safety is pretty much a hope and a prayer, even today.
The margin for error then, as now, is zero.
There are a couple of small runoff areas, but mainly, all you’ve got is your skill between you and a rock wall; or a steel barrier, or the deep blue sea. What, you think someone crashing into the harbor was just in John Frankenheimer’s movie? Tell that to Alberto Ascari or Paul Hawkins.
One of the most successful drivers to have been born in Monaco, Louis Chiron came from less privileged stock versus many of his contemporaries. While most drivers were scions of the aristocracy or of “new money,” Chiron parlayed his many talents to pull himself up by the bootstraps.
Living The High Life
There’s other points of interest along the way in Codling’s book. He looks in on Monaco as a movie backdrop and how it’s a playground for the rich and famous, as well as the very rich and very famous. How can you talk about Monaco and not talk about Grace Kelly? How can you talk about Grace Kelly and not talk about Monaco?
Off the circuit, Monaco is a 24-hour spectacle of high-rolling pursuits, expensive boats, private jets, penthouses, and celebrity parties. From the Casino de Monte-Carlo (James Bond anyone?) to clubs like Amber Lounge, Jimmy’z, and The Black Lounge, Monaco is the epitome of wealth and opulence. Because of stories like Kelly’s and those of other royalty, like Count Wolfgang von Trips, Monaco is a fairy tale come to life.
Yet, it is also a fairy tale come to life because of the just-as-improbable, working-class stories of kids who raced go karts; and guys who worked as mechanics being honored by kings, not the other way around.
Driving It Home
Monaco is a stupid and insane race and, as Codling so ably points out, we need a certain amount of stupidity and insanity in our lives. It allows paupers to live like kings and princesses, and for royalty to see what really matters in life: courage, skill, desire, fair play, and honor.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
This picture of Grace Kelly in a sports car appears just before chapter one. Photo: Marka.
The Life: Monaco Grand Prix by Stuart Codling
Series: The Life
Hardcover: 240 pages
Publisher: Motorbooks (April 16, 2019)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0760363749
ISBN-13: 978-0760363744
Product Dimensions: 7 x 1 x 9.1 inches
Shipping Weight: 1.8 lbs.
Price at the time of this writing: $22.10 (Kindle) or $21.53 (Hardcover) on Amazon.
About The Author
Stuart Codling’s and James Mann’s previous Motorbooks title, Art of the Formula 1 Race Car received the “Best of Books” award from the International Society for Vehicle Preservation’s International Automotive Media Awards competition. He worked in Motorsport and automotive writing for more than a decade, before joining F1 Racing magazine in 2001. Codling appears as an F1 expert on various media platforms, and calls Farnham, Surrey, England home.

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Preparing For Your Summer Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide

Preparing For Your Summer Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide This summer road trip guide includes:
How to respond during an unexpected emergency.
Driving tips that will help keep you and your family safe.
A comprehensive checklist for getting your vehicle prepared.
What to place in your emergency kit, including something we overlook.
Best times of the week to drive and the risks that come with summer travel.
Pack those bags, gather up the snacks, and grab a seat in the back of the station wagon. The quintessential American road trip remains a top choice for families this summer. A recent AAA Travel survey finds nearly 100 million Americans – four in 10 U.S. adults – are planning a family vacation this year. With regard to summer road trips specifically, two-thirds of all travelers (68 percent) say they will embark on a summer getaway. According to AAA, lower fuel prices this summer versus last year may encourage more families to hit the road.
“The great American road trip is still one of the best ways for families to relax and reconnect with one another,” said Stacey Barber, Executive Director, AAA Travel Information & Content. “This is quickly shaping up to be another busy year for family travelers, both on the roadways, as well as other popular travel destinations and attractions.”
Summer Road Trips: The Ultimate Guide
This comprehensive guide consists of three parts: getting your vehicle ready, what to pack, and how to stay safe while driving. We want you prepared for every mile of your summer road trip, and there are a number of factors to consider before taking off. If at any point you have questions while reading this guide, please reach out to us directly.
“Summer is supposed to be the most carefree time of the year, but unfortunately that’s not really true on the roads,” explained Maureen Vogel, Senior Manager of Public Relations, National Safety Council. “Over the summer months, we see more people on the roads driving longer distances, and increased traffic means increased crash risk.”
This comprehensive guide covers three important things to consider before a summer road trip: getting your car ready, what to pack, and how to stay safe.
Section #1: Preparing Your Vehicle Beforehand
Multi-Point Inspection
Have your oil changed and your tires rotated – even if it’s a little early, that’s okay. Doing so allows a trusted mechanic the chance to perform a proper multi-point inspection before your trip. Let them know you are traveling so they can do a comprehensive check of your vehicle’s major components and systems.
“If you’re a month or 2,000 miles away from your oil change due date, then definitely get an oil change if you plan to travel far,” said Vic Sias, Senior Head of Service Management, YourMechanic. “Make sure they do a thorough review of your fluids, battery, engine, and tires.”
“Most shops will check your tires over, measure your brake pads, and check all your fluid levels as part of a standard service,” explained Bob Cockerham, General Manager of REAL Volkswagen Parts. “Proper maintenance also reduces the odds of a sudden failure, which means you’re less likely to be inconvenienced by a car problem on your trip.”
When The Rubber Meets The Road
Tires are an “out of sight, out of mind” item but research suggests we should change them sooner than we think. Worn tires put you and other drivers at risk, especially during a summer road trip. Research from AAA finds that driving on even relatively worn tires at highway speeds, and on wet surfaces, can increase stopping distances by nearly 90 feet. That’s more than the length of an eighteen-wheeler.
“Tires should be checked every time you fill up. If your tire pressure is too low or too high, and it’s a hot day, you can have a problem at highway speeds,” Cockerham said. “On a hot summer day, tires can literally fall apart as you’re driving down the road. This can be very dangerous.”
“The summer heat is especially bad for tires. In the heat, asphalt temperature can top 140 degrees,” Sias added. “If tires are under inflated and get too hot, they’ll start peeling apart and shredding on the road.”
Have your tires replaced if necessary before embarking on a summer road trip.
Related: Keep your car running for the long haul with this comprehensive guide.
Staying Cool
Your car’s cooling system should be in tip-top shape before you leave. The cooling system contains vital components like the radiator, thermostat, and water pump, with a variety of hoses and valves. Engines typically run between 190 and 210 degrees Fahrenheit, with 240 degrees being the danger zone for overheating. When the summer sun sets in on a long trip, the engine is more prone to overheating. Sias says for this reason, your car’s road trip worthiness begins with the cooling system.
“On most summer road trips, you’re driving for three to four hours at a time, so that puts unusual pressure on the engine and coolant system,” he explained. “Especially in the summer heat, if the water pump fails, that spells disaster. The car will start losing coolant, overheat, and steam will start coming out of the engine.”
“Another one of the biggest issues we see with summer temperatures and vehicle failures are in the AC system,” Cockerham added. “People have a failing AC system, but don’t necessarily realize it because the problem started in the fall or winter.”
A telltale sign of a failing air conditioner is one of the easiest: it simply won’t blow cold air. AC systems, since they are pressurized, are completely sealed and must remain so in order to properly function. As the miles add up, the rubber O-rings on the high pressure lines can deteriorate. If this happens, it causes a leak whereby moisture enters the lines and creates an acidic environment when it mixes with the refrigerant. This is detrimental to the entire system and, as the leaking continues, it prevents your interior from getting cool.
“Air conditioners have a way of breaking down right when you need them most,” Sias said.
Having a multi-point inspection done beforehand will give you time to address any maintenance concerns.
Related: Buy a new car or fix your current one? Here is some practical advice.
Seasonal Woes
A YourMechanic study last year looked at the most common car repairs by season. The data was analyzed by comparing the total number of each quote YourMechanic offered for different repairs in 2017 by season. From there, seasonal percentages were derived to uncover the most heavily weighted quotes by season. The study ultimately found HVAC failures, broken cooling fans, and window lift motors are among the most common issues when the weather gets toasty. Timing chains are also more susceptible when the weather gets warmer.
“This is likely due to spring and summer being far more dry seasons, resulting in a lot more dust and grit getting into the oil that coats the timing chain,” YourMechanic writes in the study. “This dust and grit could potentially reduce the timing chain lifespan.”
Keep in mind, you may not necessarily be able to prevent these seasonal repairs. Sometimes, when something breaks on your car, it is what it is. Just address things as they come up. This way, your vehicle will be in good condition when you set out for that family road trip. And it never hurts to keep extra oil, windshield wiper fluid, and coolant in your trunk. Just in case.
Recap (Remember To “CHECK”)
Change your oil and rotate your tires.
Have a compete multi-point inspection done.
Engine health starts with your car’s cooling system.
Cover your bases by having an extra bottle of washer fluid.
Keep in mind certain repairs are more common in the summer.
The Big 8: Have A Trusted Mechanic Inspect These Things Beforehand
Wipers
All Major Fluids
Exhaust System
Cooling System
Brake Pads & Rotors
Tire Tread & Pressures
Suspension & Steering
Exterior Light Operation
Section #2: What To Pack
In a recent study conducted by Siegfried & Jensen, 62 percent said they are ready to handle an emergency on the road. The Utah-based law firm found a stark difference, however, between what respondents believe counts as “prepared” versus how prepared they actually are. A list of eight essential items was sourced from AAA, the Car Care Council, DMV.org, driving-tests.org, and the Washington State Department of Transportation. Respondents were asked what “recommended essentials” they keep in their cars. The results were not great.
“We were very surprised to find most Americans only have four out of the eight recommended essentials in their car,” said Ned Siegfried, President of Siegfried & Jensen. “This misplaced confidence suggests there isn’t enough being done to educate drivers about how to get their vehicles ready.”
“Every car should have an emergency kit, even if your car is brand new,” Vogel added. “The best car kits include flashers, jumper cables, orange cones, flashlights, blankets, and dry food such as granola bars.”
Don’t Shrug The Atlas
Just like Grandpa used to have, it’s best to keep a good old fashioned road atlas in the glove box. In today’s ever-connected world, it’s easy to rely strictly on smartphones for directions. While that may work for most places, you may encounter an area with no service; especially if your summer road trip takes you somewhere you have never been. Siegfried & Jensen’s survey found less than a quarter of Americans keep a paper map handy.
“In some of the more remote parts of the U.S., finding a satellite signal is never certain and your GPS is rendered useless,” Siegfried said. “Maps are more reliable and, unlike a cell battery, will never die on you.”
“Plan your route, know where you are going, and review the route before heading out,” added Public Information Officer Ian Hoey of the California Highway Patrol’s Office of Community Outreach and Media Relations. “This will help you not to rely solely on electronic navigation systems.”
Pack a road atlas for good measure if your summer road trip takes you off the beaten path.
Include The Games & The Grub
AAA recommends packing books and games for the kids and an extra pillow and blanket. Healthy snacks are a must, especially for those long summer road trips. We recommend cutting up fresh vegetables and fruit and placing them in a small cooler or Ziploc bag. Almonds, cashews, and other assorted nuts are perfect.
“Be sure to keep a case of bottled water and know the symptoms of dehydration,” Siegfried added.
Don’t Pack Your Ego
A recent survey from Esurance backs the findings of Siegfried & Jensen in showing overconfidence is hurting our driving habits. Esurance asked respondents to rate their driving skills on a scale of one to five, with one being the least safe and five being the best. Perhaps not surprisingly, 76 percent of respondents awarded themselves either four or five stars. However, when asked, 93 percent said they engaged in at least one unsafe driving behavior, while one in four admitted to engaging in numerous unsafe driving behaviors.
“Not only do they put themselves at risk, multi-tasking drivers increase the risk of injuring or killing their passengers, bicyclists, pedestrians, or innocent victims traveling in another vehicle,” Hoey said. “It is the responsibility of all of us who drive to help keep the roads safe.”
Recap (Remember The Four P’s)
Plan your route.
Pack a safety kit.
Pile up the snacks.
Put an atlas in your car.
The Big 8: Have These On Your Summer Road Trip
Water
Tool Kit
Flashlight
Spare Tire
First Aid Kit
Road Flares
Jumper Cables
Tire Changing Tools
Section #3: How To Stay Safe While Driving
After your car is in good working order and everything is packed, it’s time to hit the road. Few experiences are more enjoyable than a summer road trip, but remember to stay vigilant (and this section will help you). Summer poses a number of inherent risks for travelers; for example, July 4th is the most dangerous day to drive based on the number of injuries and fatalities that take place on that day alone.
“If you are traveling around a holiday, anticipate an increase in traffic, and be especially alert for impaired drivers,” Vogel said. “We might let our guards down a bit in the summer as we celebrate holidays and take vacations, but defensive driving is key.”
Best Time To Travel: Daylight Is Ideal
Congestion may be part of your summer road trip when going through a major city. Just go with it and try not to get anxious. You can travel at night to avoid daily commuters and rush hour traffic, however it’s not ideal.
“When we drive at night, we work against our Circadian rhythm and expose ourselves to a greater risk of fatigue,” Vogel said. “It’s best to drive during the day.”
“When it comes to traveling during the day versus the night, it is more of a personal preference; however, traveling at night will have its own challenges,” Hoey explained. “Reduced visibility, the potential for increased wildlife activity, fatigue, and the fact there will be less services available, including gas stations, restaurants, and tow services should you require them.”
The California Highway Patrol says driving at night can present a number of challenges.
Best Time To Travel: Weekend Versus During The Week
A study last year from Avvo examined data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System for 2016 to see when crash-related fatalities were at their highest. The findings are useful when trying to determine when to begin your summer road trip. Based on the data, the most dangerous times to drive are the late afternoon and early evening: 6,201 accidents occurred between 4:00 p.m. and 6:59 p.m.; followed by 6,067 between 7:00 p.m. and 9:59 p.m. By contrast, the fewest fatalities (3,345) occurred during the morning hours between 7:00 a.m. and 9:59 a.m.
“We were surprised to see car crash deaths are over 85 percent higher during the after work rush hour between 4:00 p.m. and 6:59 p.m. than they are during the morning rush hour between 7:00 a.m. and 9:59 a.m.,” said Jeremy Reitman, Avvo’s Vice President of Organic Marketing.
Avvo’s study found that nearly 7,000 fatalities occurred on Saturdays in 2016, with Friday not far behind at 5,826 fatalities. The figures show the most dangerous time to travel is Saturday night after 10 p.m., but that risk extends into the early morning hours of Sunday, with 1:00 a.m. to 3:59 a.m. being equally as risky.
Be Weary of Weary Driving
According to the National Sleep Foundation, 60 percent of Americans have driven while drowsy and one-third have actually fallen asleep at the wheel. The foundation says after we are awake for 18 hours, it’s the equivalent of a .05 blood alcohol level (.08 is considered drunk). If we burn the candle at both ends and are awake for 24 hours – perhaps after a sleepless night – it’s like having a blood alcohol level of .10.
“A sleepy driver is a danger to everyone on the road,” Hoey said. “Pull over and rest when you start to become fatigued.”
Yawning, heavy eyes, and lane drifting are among the common symptoms of drowsy driving. Don’t risk it in an effort to squeeze out those last few miles. Rolling down the windows and blaring the radio are not effective strategies either. Find a place to stop and get some rest.
Every two minutes someone is injured in a drunk driving accident.
Drinking & Driving Don’t Mix
Mothers Against Drunk Driving notes that every two minutes someone is injured in an alcohol-related accident. Every 51 minutes, a person is killed, making drunk driving the primary cause of death on American roads. Current data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows almost 11,000 people died in accidents involving alcohol in 2017 and 2016. According to NHTSA, 37,133 people died in traffic crashes in 2017, and 29 percent of those killed, or 10,874, were due to drunk driving.
“After two years of alarming increases in drunk driving deaths in 2015 and 2016, the new data shows a very slight decrease – but that is not enough,” said Colleen Sheehey-Church, Immediate Past National President of MADD. “One death is too many, but almost 11,000 lives lost, two years in a row, is devastating.”
“The law and common sense makes it clear that driving any vehicle, including recreational vehicles, while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a critical mistake,” Hoey said. “The law is even stricter for drivers under the age of 21 or on probation for a prior DUI conviction.”
Be aware of the risk as two in three will be impacted by drunk driving in their lifetime. When setting out on your summer road trip, don’t chance it. The vehicle is no place for a party – always travel with a clean and sober mind. Drunk driving accidents are 100 percent preventable as long was we chose to travel responsibly.
“Driving under the influence also includes drugs,” Hoey added. “You can be arrested for DUI cannabis – including edibles, concentrates, and other products – prescription drugs and even over-the-counter drugs if they impair your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.”
“If you see someone driving erratically, do not hesitate to call the authorities once you can safely do so,” Vogel said.
First responders say to try and remain clam in the event of an emergency. Help is on the way.
Related: Keeping man’s best friend safe: the science behind pet safety in your car.
What To Do During An Emergency
Regardless of the emergency, find a clear place to pull off the road and dial 911. Relay everything necessary to the dispatcher. Always keep tabs on where you are exactly during your summer road trip. It will help the 911 operator if they have your current location, direction of travel, and the nearest cross streets if applicable. Explain, as best you can, the nature of the emergency, be it a crash, crime, fire, or medical event.
“Most importantly, try to remain calm,” Hoey said. “Help is on the way.”
Be Aware of Car Theft
Data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) shows vehicle thefts in the U.S. rose last year by more than four percent, according to preliminary 2017 records from the FBI. Car theft is largely a crime of opportunity. That said, don’t leave your keys or other valuables inside your vehicle to give thieves an incentive. The NICB finds, on every single day from January 1st, 2016, through December 31st, 2018, an average of 209 vehicles were stolen nationwide.
Why? Because drivers left their keys or fobs in their cars.
“We can’t stress enough the importance of locking your vehicle and taking the key or fob with you when you leave it,” said Joe Wehrle, NICB President and CEO. “Anti-theft technology works, but only if you use it.”
When you pull off the highway, lock you car and park it in a well-lit and secure area. Car thieves often go for the path of least resistance. Try to stop at modern rest areas and other busy locations where you and others would easily notice suspicious or strange activity. If you are stopping at night, keep your eyes peeled and use the restroom facilities as quickly as possible. If someone approaches you with a weapon and demands your vehicle, calmly give it to them, and call the police when they leave.
Always park your vehicle in a well-lit area.
Related: Car theft is on the rise and here is what you need to know.
Overall Best Practices For A Safe Summer Road Trip
Packing always takes longer than we think, and you many not exactly leave on time for your summer road trip. That’s okay. Don’t drive faster to try and make up for lost time; you only put yourself and your family at risk. Defensive driving is best; obey all posted speed limits, leave yourself “an out” in traffic (i.e. don’t follow too close), and don’t fall victim to road rage. Resist the urge to look at your phone, send a text message, or check social media. Distracted driving is dangerous and impartial when it comes to its victims.
“Anything that diverts the driver’s eyes or attention from the roadway, even for one or two seconds, could result in tragedy,” Hoey explained. “The bottom line, whatever the distraction, it’s not worth it!”
An observational study last year by the California Office of Traffic Safety on cell phone use found approximately 4.5 percent of drivers were seen using a cell phone, a nearly 27 percent increase from 2017. That figure is down from 2016, but the danger is ever-present. According to NHTSA, sending or reading a text takes roughly five seconds. At 55 mph, your vehicle will cover an entire football field by the time you look up again. In 2017, 3,166 people died in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers.
“Reckless and distracted driving is the number one killer of teens in America too,” Hoey continued. “Focus on the road ahead and get to where you are going safely.”
“Also, buckle up before you turn on the ignition, and make sure all passengers are as well,” Vogel said. “Driving defensively and wearing a seat belt are the most important things you can do to protect yourself.”
While summer getaways are always fun, never take your eyes off the road.
Recap (Remember The Six D’s)
Daylight is best for traveling.
Dial 911 during an emergency.
Drinking and driving don’t mix.
Drugs and driving don’t mix either.
Drowsy driving is just as bad as both.
Distracted driving is not worth the risk.
The Big 8: If You Are Stopped By Law Enforcement
Slow down when you see a patrol vehicle behind you displaying red lights.
Pull your vehicle to the right and stop in a safe location.
Place the vehicle in park.
Lower your driver and passenger side windows and wait inside.
If necessary, be willing to exit your vehicle.
Otherwise, keep both hands on the steering wheel or where they are visible at all times.
Wait for the officer to approach and listen to the officer’s instructions.
If you are carrying a concealed weapon, use common sense and do not reach for it.
Putting It All Together
While there is a lot of useful and important information above, make sure to enjoy your summer road trip as well. Try not to stress too much – you don’t want to feel like taking a vacation from your vacation. Use this guide as you need to help you prepare. Happy trails . . . and if you take any good photos on your summer road trip, share them with us on Twitter.
Sources: AAA, Avvo, California Highway Patrol, Esurance, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, National Insurance Crime Bureau, National Safety Council, National Sleep Foundation, Siegfried & Jensen, YourMechanic.

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This 2020 BMW M5 Celebrates 35 Years of Bavarian Goodness

This 2020 BMW M5 Celebrates 35 Years of Bavarian Goodness A forthcoming special edition celebrates 35 years of the BMW M5.
However, production is limited to 350 units globally with 35 for the U.S.
More than a looker, this special 2020 BMW M5 can reach nearly 200 mph.
The BMW M5 is celebrating 35 glorious years of sport-luxury driving. Commemorating this event is the 2020 BMW M5 Edition 35 Years. Yeah, it’s quite a mouthful. However, this special version of the M5 Competition is limited to 350 units globally, and only 35 will make it to the U.S.A.
Better act quickly, then.
BMW M5 Edition 35 Years: What’s New?
Think of it as a cosmetic makeover rather than an invasive surgical procedure. BMW started with the impressive M5 Competition and went from there. All 35 examples of the M5 Edition 35 Years have “BMW Individual Frozen Dark Grey II” metallic paint (another mouthful). It features a special pigment to exude a silky, matte finish, according to BMW. The gloss-black brake calipers peek out from under those gorgeous, 20-inch alloy wheels with their graphite gray finish.
Enhancing the stealthy look is the absence of traditional badges on the trunk.
The interior receives the 35-year treatment too. For example, the M Sport seats are covered in Merino Black leather with beige stitching. Garnering attention are the door trim sections, instrument area, and center console with a gold anodized carbon structure finish. It all looks classy and modern inside the BMW M5 Edition 35 Years.
2020 BMW M5 Edition 35 Years. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Related: The 2019 BMW Z4 makes us want to hit the road!
Optional M5 Packages
The 2020 BMW M5 Edition 35 Years is available in two themes: Executive and the M Driver’s Package. The former throws in a surround view system with a 3D camera and active park distance control, soft-close automatic doors, power rear and side rear window sunshades, ventilated front seats, heated front and rear seats, four-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, and wireless charging.
In the meantime, the M Driver’s package raises the speed limiter from 155 to 189 mph. You also get a voucher for some high-performance driving lessons at the BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, South Carolina or Thermal, California.
No matter which package you choose, this special M5 receives a 12.3-inch instrument cluster display and a 10.25-inch center touchscreen display. The latest version of the BMW iDrive 7 operating system with Live Cockpit Professional is also included. Of course, this special M5 also receives the iDrive touch controller with gesture control and cloud-based voice control.
2020 BMW M5 Edition 35 Years interior layout. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
High-Revving Powerplant
This means a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 generating 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft. of torque. No, the 2020 BMW M5 Edition 35 Years is no more powerful than the M5 competition, but this cuts both ways. Seriously, is 617 horsepower not enough for a sport-luxury barge? However, since this M5 pays tribute to 35 years of dominance, would it hurt BMW to sweeten the deal with more oomph under the hood?
It depends on how you look at it.
With this motor, the M5 Edition 35 Years rockets from zero to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, with 124 mph arriving in just 10.8 seconds. I can think of no faster way to complete a school or grocery run, barring a steroidal supercar.
All-Wheel Drive Technology
Keeping everything under control is the M xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system. It includes an active differential with a fully-variable and electronic multi-plate clutch. This ensures immediate power transfer from the engine to the driving wheels. Torque is split between the front and rear wheels by the multi-plate clutch, before the Active M Differential splits it again (as necessary) between the rear wheels. Interestingly enough, this innovative AWD system is capable of operating purely in rear-wheel drive.
In my humble opinion, this is the FUN setting, and basically means you can do powerful burnouts and huge power slides – all in a comfortable, dignified, and luxurious environment.

Related: The 2020 BMW 7 Series receives a comprehensive overhaul.
Performance Suspension & Powerful Brakes
The 2020 BMW M5 Edition 35 Years is seven millimeters lower than the plebeian M5 sedan. This is due to 10 percent stiffer springs and dampers. Meanwhile, the special edition M5 makes good use of a double-wishbone front and five-link rear suspension with a firmer rear anti-roll bar. This helps lessens body roll while giving the vehicle a rear-biased feel.
Stopping power is courtesy of lightweight, six-piston fixed calipers with inner-vented disks in the front and single-piton floating calipers in the rear.
Pricing & Availability
Only 35 examples of this special M5 are allocated to U.S. buyers. Production begins in September with prices starting at $128,995 (including destination and taxes).
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.
2020 BMW M5 Edition 35 Years Gallery

Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.

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