2015 Aston Martin Vantage GT Texas Direct Auto 2015 GT Used 4.7L V8 32V Automatic RWD Convertible Premium

2015 Aston Martin Vantage GT Texas Direct Auto 2015 GT Used 4.7L V8 32V Automatic RWD Convertible Premium
$73,610.00
End Date: Thursday Jun-20-2019 10:04:00 PDT
Buy It Now for only: $73,610.00
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2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure Review: Just Functional Enough

2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure Review: Just Functional Enough 93solid2019 Toyota RAV4 AdventureOverall ImpressionGood daily driver.Easy-to-use controls.Plenty of tech features.ProsComfortable Ride QualityCargo & Passenger SpaceConsLackluster Power (At Times)Cost Jumps Fast w/ Options The 2019 Toyota RAV4 gets a redesign and the Adventure trim is the coolest looking in the small SUV’s lineup. It comes with extra exterior cladding plus an upgraded all-wheel-drive system that includes torque-vectoring technology for off-pavement use. This model is for those who want to get away from the city on the weekends and do some exploring in the wilderness. It’s not an extreme off-road animal, but functional enough for fun activities like camping and kayaking.
This week, we’ve been driving the 2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure with all-wheel drive.
What’s New For 2019
The RAV4 is completely redesigned for the new model year, riding on Toyota’s TNGA-K platform for a lower center of gravity versus the previous RAV4. Now in its fifth-generation, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 comes in both gas and hybrid variants. Toyota’s comprehensive Safety Sense 2.0 package joins a host of connectivity features like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri Eyes Free, and Apple CarPlay. Trim levels for gasoline models include LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, and Limited.
Features & Options: Comfort & Safety 
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure AWD ($32,900) comes standard with a power liftgate, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable driver’s seat, simulated leather upholstery (SofTex), and an upgraded interior. It also features automatic LED headlights, foglights, heated mirrors, push-button start, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, and additional USB ports.
Related: The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is just the right size for our tastes.
The 2019 RAV4 is standard with the aforementioned Safety Sense 2.0 package, which includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection; Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist; Automatic High Beam, and Lane Tracing and Road Sign Assist. Our tester was also equipped with blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic alert.
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure is ideal for weekend trips.
What Is The Toyota RAV4 Adventure Trim?
The Adventure trim adds some special styling features: 19-inch alloy wheels, fender flares, and taller roof rails, for example. There’s an enhanced rearview camera, embossed seating details, and an upgraded driver information display with an eight-inch touchscreen. The all-weather floor mats and satellite radio were two extras we enjoyed having. Performance-wise, the Adventure trim has a few extra tools when it’s time to get away from the city.
For example, it comes with 8.6 inches of ground clearance (standard model has 8.4 inches) and the TRD Off-Road suspension. It features a Multi-Terrain Select system with Mud & Sand modes for beach driving, or a Rock & Dirt mode for trails. The Snow mode is for wintry conditions, something we would use here in Colorado. The Adventure trim is also dressed up with 18×7-inch matte black TRD alloy wheels with Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail all-terrain tires.
This Adventure tester also came with the optional weather package ($1,185), navigation ($1,620), Technology package ($1,265), and a power/tilt moonroof ($850). Total MSRP including destination: $39,948. By comparison, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 starts at $25,650, with the Adventure trim beginning at $33,050.  
2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure interior layout.
Interior Highlights: Orange Highlights & Plenty of Room 
We jumped inside our Adventure RAV4 to find a stylish cabin with orange stitching that really popped against the black seats. The orange theme continues around the cupholder, cellphone charging pad, and above the glove box. We found the interior to be well-built with some nicely-layered and soft-touch materials. The hard plastics on the door panels and around the dash are not without their purpose, as they are easy to clean. The rubberized grip surfaces on the interior door pulls and the radio and climate knobs are a nice touch for this trim.
The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and we think the synthetic leather feels like the real thing. The power driver’s seat and tilt/telescoping steering wheel allowed us to find the perfect driving position. We also like the radio and climate controls which are easy to find and use. Technology abounds in the 2019 RAV4, with a laundry list that starts with Toyota’s Entune 3.0 Audio system and expands to Verizon Wi-Fi. 
In the back, your passengers will be comfortable and there’s enough room for taller people, even behind a taller driver. There’s also enough headroom in back even with the raked roof, plus a seat recline feature if you want to get more comfy on a long trip. 
The RAV4’s cargo carrying-ability is among the biggest in the class, and that’s true whether the seats are up or down. There’s 37 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and 57 cubes behind the front. It’s also low and easy to load as we had some extra big boxes to carry this week. The power liftgate made it more convenient too.





Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is powered by a 2.5-liter engine producing 203 horsepower (up 27 horsepower from last year). It’s more powerful and efficient, thanks to a higher compression ratio (13:1 on gas models) and Toyota’s D4-S fuel injection system, which combines direct and secondary port injectors.
The four-cylinder engine pairs with a new eight-speed automatic, both of which benefit from the RAV4’s lighter curb weight compared to last year. The improvements help the newly-redesigned RAV4 achieve an EPA-estimated 25/33 city/highway and 28 combined. Overall, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 is one of the most fuel-efficient compact SUVs available.
The RAV4 Adventure tows up to 3,500 lbs., while all other trim levels can only pull 1,500 lbs. The Adventure trim also comes with active grille shutters to increase efficiency. 
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure has enough power for most driving situations, but can be lackluster at times.
Driving Dynamics: Some Noise But Solid Overall 
We powered the RAV4 Adventure in and around the mountains west of Denver, the perfect environment for this compact trail runner. It has enough power for most driving situations, but could leave you wanting more ‘oomph’ if you have a full load of people and cargo, especially pulling mountain passes or long hills.
Around town it goes just fine, and merges onto the highway with ease. Once on the open road, the RAV4 provides a confident feeling at higher speeds. We did notice the engine noise inside the cabin when we pushed the SUV hard going up I-70 at altitude.
The eight-speed is smooth, and there’s no reluctance to downshift if you need power for passing. We left the transmission in Normal mode most of the week. Dialing it over to Sport, however, sharpens responsiveness and shift timing for more spirited driving.
The special TRD suspension and torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system help the RAV4 Adventure negotiate wet or snowy conditions easily. It can be taken off-road for light-duty work and will get you a little farther back into the high country than the standard model. In the twisty corners, there isn’t too much lean in spite of the taller ride height.
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 features an eight-speed automatic. The shifts are smooth and there’s no reluctance to downshift.
Related: On the road with the perfect weekend warrior, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma.
Conclusion: For Good Reason 
With a completely new exterior look, the 2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure stands out among most other compact SUVs. In general, the RAV4 is still one of the most popular SUVs for sale, and with good reason. It’s versatile, holds up to five passengers, and comes with Toyota’s reputation for durability.
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 Toyota RAV4 Adventure Gallery





























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



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2015 Aston Martin Vantage S Coupe 2015 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Coupe, 11,591 Miles, B

2015 Aston Martin Vantage S Coupe 2015 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Coupe, 11,591 Miles, B
$98,880.00
End Date: Monday Jun-17-2019 15:42:29 PDT
Buy It Now for only: $98,880.00
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Inside The 2018 Aston Martin Racing Vantage GTE

Inside The 2018 Aston Martin Racing Vantage GTE
Yes, like its road-going sibling from which it is derived, the 2018 Aston Martin Racing Vantage GTE faces similar aesthetic, a-hem, issues. But this is a race car. A race car that will take part in the FIA World Endurance Championship next season. And, when it comes to racing, effectiveness counts more than aesthetics. It’s sort of like submachine guns. Sure, it might not be as appealing as a Thompson or an MP 40, but a Sten Gun can still do the business, y’know?
Track Ready
The Sten of choice seen here is the new Vantage GTE from Aston Martin, set for FIA’s GTE class at places like Le Mans and Spa and The ‘Ring. The main competition for the new Vantage GTE will be cars like the BMW M3, Chevrolet Corvette C7.R, Ferrari 488 GTE, and Porsche 911 variants. In other words, these are the most road-car-like competitors you’ll see at Le Mans. Also, the racing is fun to watch since the competition is so close and the racing is so tough. Still, Aston Martin has done more than okay with previous versions of this car, chalking up 37 international race victories, including two Le Mans 24 Hour class wins.
Power & Performance
The engine is a force-fed V8 that runs bespoke BorgWarner turbos with integrated electric wastegates. The exhaust system is a full inconel setup made by an outfit called Akrapovic. No, I didn’t know who they were either. Turns out they’re Slovenian, and all they do is make exhaust systems. Fun note: Inconel is a nickel/steel alloy with extremely high heat resistance and was the same stuff they made the X-15 rocket plane out of.
The mill has a dry sump lubrication system and its installation in the actual race car is further back and lower than the street version, all for better track performance. The output figures are stated as “power >400 kW* and torque >700 Nm*” which translates into 536 ponies and 516 lb-ft. o’torque in old money. Two things of note: First, those figures are “greater than” because no race team is going to give away accurate power figures, and you can also reckon that Aston Martin is sandbagging with those numbers. And two, I have no idea what those asterisks are for. Aston Martin never explains them, but I thought I’d include them. What an odd thing for them to do.
Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.
Drivetrain Tech
Moving on to the driveline and transmission, there’s plenty to geek out about here. Of course it’s rear-wheel drive, because handling. There’s also traction control thrown in (because today’s drivers are a bunch of prima donnas). The transmission is a six-speed sequential unit made by Xtrac, fed by an Alcon motorsport multi-plate clutch about the size of a cheeseburger. There is a mechanical limited-slip differential with externally adjustable pre-load (a nice touch), and since this is 2017, there’s a semi-automatic paddle shift gear change coupled to a direct acting electric gear shift actuator. Did you catch all that?
The carbon fiber propshaft saves weight and increases responsiveness.
Chassis & Suspension
The chassis is a lightweight aluminium deal that uses the latest Vantage production car as a starting point. It is fitted with a steel roll cage to meet FIA safety standards and also sports an on-board, high-speed pneumatic jack for quicker pit stops. The suspension is as traditional as it is adjustable, with double wishbones front and rear, adjustable anti-roll bars, and custom Öhlins five-way adjustable dampers (shock absorbers to us Americans). Like all British cars, this thing can Handle with a capital H.
The body and aero bits are all carbon fiber, of course. The underside of the car is entirely flat and tailed with a carbon fiber splitter and diffuser. That huge rear wing is also carbon fiber and adjustable.
Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.

Ride & Handling
The steering is electro-hydraulic and power-assisted, which kind of rankles purists but literally every driver out there dearly loves, since wrestling with one of these things for 24 hours, even with a power assist is a work out. The steering wheel, which is carbon fiber, is a quick release type, both to aid with driver changes and also having to bail out if things get, um, sticky. The fuel system is the FIA mandated size of 100 liters and is a full-blown fuel cell, of course.
The wheels are huge and light: forged magnesium up front (12.5” x 18”) and forged magnesium in the rear (13.0” x 18”). The boss meats are supplied by Michelin.
Braking
The stoppers are very, very impressive. Everything is made by Alcon with monobloc six-piston calipers and wide, ringed ventilated brake discs up front. Out back, the Aston GTE sports monobloc six-piston calipers with Alcon ventilated rear brake discs. At all four corners there are integrated caliper temperature and pad wear sensors, a handy thing in a 24 hour race. The pedal box is floor-mounted and adjustable (a nice touch). Of course the front and rear brake bias is driver adjustable.
Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.
Driver Focused
The cockpit is Spartan yet extremely cool. The pilot sits in a RaceTech FIA 8862 safety seat and is held in place by a Schroth six-point safety harness. In case things get too hot, there’s a Lifeline FIA 8865 fire extinguisher. The dash is a Cosworth driver display with shift lights; there is a rearview camera and a Bosch collision avoidance radar system (which is one of those things that beeps at you milliseconds before you clout that Ford GT you thought you were clear of). Air conditioning? Surprisingly yes! The FIA/ACO mandated this a while back (you have no idea how hot it is inside one of these things). There is also an electrically-operated “driver drinks system” to help prevent fatigue.
The whole shootin’ match tips the scales with a dry weight of 1,245 kilos or around 2,800 pounds, give or take. It is worth noting this is the regulated base weight. If you were to take the ballast out, the 2018 Aston Martin Racing Vantage GTE would tip the scales considerably lighter than that.
Will this thing win? Maybe. A definite maybe. My money is on the Ferrari 488 (for sentimental reasons) or the C7.R Vettes (for practical reasons), but I wouldn’t count Aston Martin out.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
2018 Aston Martin Racing Vantage GTE Gallery











Photos & Source: Aston Martin The Americas.



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2018 Ford Super Duty By The Numbers

2018 Ford Super Duty By The Numbers
Ford is pushing the envelope for the F-Series lineup, announcing updated power, towing, and payload figures for the 2018 Super Duty. The new specs reclaim titles for the blue oval held previously by General Motors and Ram. Ford says they are delivering more for customers by offering “five key best-in-class claims.”
“Super Duty customers expect the best, and for 2018 we’re giving our customers even more power and torque from our 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel – delivering the most horsepower and torque available among all heavy-duty pickups,” explained Todd Eckert, Ford Truck Group Marketing Manager.
By The Numbers
It’s not surprising to see Ford push the line here. In just a “matter of fact” sense, the truck market is highly competitive, and customer loyalty to a particular brand is often lifelong. “We are a Ford (or Chevy) family,” they say, or “I’ve never owned anything but . . . (insert truck make and model here).” While we won’t speculate Ford’s engineering and marketing motives, if the automaker held the belief that bigger horsepower, payload, and towing numbers were the way to a truck buyer’s heart, we would be inclined to agree.
In an already competitive market with such fierce brand loyalty, posting headline-worthy performance figures seems a satisfactory answer to the “how do we attract new buyers and retain existing customers” question. One could argue these increased power numbers for the Super Duty are coming at the right time. Ford’s November sales report indicated that F-Series trucks saw their best November since 2001, with 72,769 pickups sold for a 0.9 percent gain. Conversely, Ford’s heavy truck sales took a 50 percent dip with only 566 units moved last month opposed to 1,133 for the same period in 2016. By the end of November 2016, Ford had delivered 13,417 heavy trucks compared to 10,376 at November’s end this year, marking a 22.7 percent decrease.
It’s possible these new power and capacity increases for the 2018 Super Duty will help bolster Ford’s overall truck sales. Does Ford have specific intent with this latest Super Duty announcement? Perhaps. Ford truck sales are, according to their November report, either up nicely or down significantly, depending on the model. These new performance upgrades for the Super Duty could be a happy accident as far as timing is concerned, but if an automaker wanted to move some trucks, especially near the end of the year, having increased power figures floating through the media certinately wouldn’t hurt.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Fantastic Five
The 2018 Ford Super Duty now claims five vital segment titles, the first of which is a healthy 450 horsepower.  Previously held by GM’s Sierra and Silverado models at 445 with the new Duramax, Ford’s announcement gives the Super Duty a slight edge. The second is torque, a now whopping 935 lb-ft., enough to slip past Ram at 930 lb-ft. from the recently revised Cummins. From there, the 2018 Ford Super Duty takes best-in-class gooseneck towing at 34,000 lbs. and best-in-class conventional towing at 21,000 lbs., when properly equipped. By comparison, The 2018 Ram 3500 HD, when properly equipped, has a maximum gooseneck rating of 31,210 lbs. and a maximum conventional rating of 20,000 lbs.
“Plus, our new F-450 pickup now includes a 4X2 model, enabling our customers to get more done with the segment’s best payload and towing,” Eckert added.
The 2018 Super Duty boasts best-in-class payload at 7,360 lbs. for the segment’s top honor.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Vital Components
The grunt for the 2018 Super Duty comes from the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine, which received redesigned cylinder heads, optimized fuel calibrations, and enhancements to the turbo for 2018. The truck’s high-strength steel frame, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body, and integrated gooseneck hitch mounts are also important for capability and efficiency. It’s also worth noting that Ford designs and builds their own diesel engines and transmissions, something no other manufacturer currently does. The automaker says this is critical for getting the powertrain, vehicle calibrations, and chassis to align.
“This approach enables Ford engineers to optimize vehicle performance across the entire lineup and to further refine the powertrain to the specific needs of the customer,” reads a statement from Ford.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Super Duty is available now with the F-450 4×2 dual-rear-wheel pickup coming later this winter. Base MSRP is $52,830, although pricing can vary greatly depending on the selected trim level and the buyer’s desired number of additional options, features, and packages.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.  
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.



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Honda Promises Family-Friendly, High-Tech Features For 2018 Pilot

Honda Promises Family-Friendly, High-Tech Features For 2018 Pilot

The 2018 Honda Pilot went on sale this week, billed as the automaker’s “family-friendly, high-tech” vehicle. Honda’s three-row SUV arrives on the heels of some solid recognition, including the 2017 Automotive Best Buy Award from Consumer Guide and a designation from U.S. News & World Report as one of the best cars for families in 2017. Honda says Pilot production in Lincoln, Alabama has increased to make availability easier for the automaker’s some 1,000 dealerships nationwide.
Power & Performance
The 2018 Honda Pilot features a 3.5-liter, direct-injected i-VTEC V6 engine, complete with Variable Cylinder Management for increased performance and efficiency. The engine, which creates 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft. of toque, is paired to either a 6-speed or 9-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available.
Honda’s unibody SUV rides on a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension. Steering is electronic and the brakes are a power-assisted and ventilated setup.
Interior Treatments
Honda says the high point here is the cargo and rear seating area, arranged in such a way that neither one intrudes on the other. The entry way to the third row is larger and the available “one-touch slide” feature will fold the second row automatically. Total passenger volume ranges between 151 and 153 cubic feet, depending on the trim level.
The 2018 Pilot also features the latest infotainment and connectivity systems and is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Push button start, rear window defroster, cargo area hooks and tie-downs, and a 60/40 split, flat-folding third-row bench seat are standard across the lineup.
2018 Honda Pilot Elite. Photo: Honda North America.
Safety & Security
The 2018 Pilot can be equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of safety technologies, available as a standalone option on EX and EX-L, but standard on Touring and Elite trims. Honda Sensing includes the Collision Mitigation Braking System with Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning. Additional driver assistance features include the standard, multi-angle rearview camera and an available blind spot information monitor with cross traffic detection.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Honda Pilot is available now. We have included the handy chart from Honda below which outlines the various trim levels and corresponding information. The Honda Pilot was designed and developed by Honda R&D Americas, Inc., in California and Ohio.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 
Trim/Drivetrain
Transmission
MSRP
EPA MPG Rating
(City/Highway/Combined)
LX / 2WD
6AT
$30,900
19/27/22
LX / AWD
6AT
$32,800
18/26/21
EX / 2WD
6AT
$33,330
19/27/22
EX / AWD
6AT
$35,230
18/26/21
EX w/Honda Sensing / 2WD
6AT
$34,330
19/27/22
EX w/Honda Sensing / AWD
6AT
$36,230
18/26/21
EX-L / 2WD
6AT
$36,760
19/27/22
EX-L / AWD
6AT
$38,660
18/26/21
EX-L w/Honda Sensing / 2WD
6AT
$37,760
19/27/22
EX-L w/Honda Sensing / AWD
6AT
$39,660
18/26/21
EX-L w/Navi / 2WD
6AT
$37,760
19/27/22
EX-L w/Navi / AWD
6AT
$39,660
18/26/21
EX-L w/RES / 2WD
6AT
$38,360
19/27/22
EX-L w/RES / AWD
6AT
$40,260
18/26/21
Touring / 2WD
9AT
$41,970
20/27/23
Touring / AWD
9AT
$43,870
19/26/22
Elite / AWD
9AT
$47,470
19/26/22
Photos & Source: Honda North America.



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Mercedes-Benz GLB 250: Small Enough For Families of Seven

Mercedes-Benz GLB 250: Small Enough For Families of Seven The GLB 250 is the first compact vehicle from Mercedes-Benz to offer an optional third row.
It’s stuffed full of the latest infotainment features, voice command systems, and safety gear. 
An available all-wheel drive system allows for different front-to-rear torque disbursements. 
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 is a mid-sized, no, wait, scratch that it’s a . . . wait, how big is this thing? It looks like a mid-sized crossover, and the specs say it’s not all that big, but somehow Mercedes fits seven seats in this thing with an optional third row. What sort of sorcery is this?
It’s not, really. Just smart packaging by an office full of German engineers. It’s also a pretty good answer if you live in an urban environment, have a family, and also have the cash to drop on something with a three-pointed star on it. They don’t say how much yet, but Merc doesn’t make anything cheap. So figure that in before you decide it’s the car for you.
Or truck. Or truck-like thing.
How Big Is The Mercedes-Benz GLB?
Whatever the GLB is, it’s 111.4 inches long. Which means it’s 5.1 inches longer than the GLA and 1.7 inches shorter than the GLC. Get it? A, B and C. GLA, GLB, and GLC. Right in the Goldilocks zone, or at least the guys in sales hope it is. The headroom up front is 41 inches, and legroom in the back row is 38 inches, meaning the GLB is a comfortable ride for everyone on board (at least the guys in sales say so).
In addition to hauling seven people, the GLB also hauls things. The cargo capacity is between 20 to 62 cubic feet, depending on the model, and whether the seats are all up, all down, or split somewhere between. So family ski trips or camping trips should be handled with ease. Mercedes also points out how the second row backrests can be adjusted in several stages for flexibility, ultimately increasing cargo volume by up to six cubic feet.
Handy if the kids get an extra big haul from granny one Christmas future.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 is the first compact vehicle from the automaker to offer an optional third row. Photo: MBUSA.
Related: Looks sharp, smells fresh! Meet the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53.
Sound The Trumpet!
The drivetrain has all the bells and whistles you’d expect from this car company in 2019. It’s powered by a two-liter four-banger that puts out respectable amounts of torque and power – 221 ponies and 258 lb-ft. of grunt – being mated to a silky smooth eight-speed automatic. The two-liter M 260 engine (as it’s known in Mercedes parlance) has cast-iron cylinder liners and a die cast aluminum block. Mercedes says their in-house cylinder bore process, called “trumpet-honing,” minimizes piston friction and cuts consumption.
All-Wheel Drive & Torque Distribution
A permanent all-wheel drive system (4MATIC) with variable torque distribution is available too. During normal driving, the Eco/Comfort mode provides an 80:20 distribution (front/rear). While in its off-road setting, the all-wheel drive clutch acts as an inter-axle differential lock, meaning torque distribution ends up as 50:50. In Sport mode, things get really fun with a 70:30 split.
But really, if you’re thinking of seriously owning the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250, lap times are not your first priority. Besides, I’ll bet you a beer that an AMG version will be out in about a year or two and then we can talk about lap times.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 employs MacPherson struts at the font. An acoustically and vibrationally decoupled multi-link axle with compression springs comprises the rear. Photo: MBUSA.
Hey Mercedes!
No, what you (and your passengers) are going to be most interested in is the infotainment and other tech-wizardry. And of course, there is a metric ton of it, but unfortunately, it’s called MBUX. That stands for Mercedes-Benz User Experience, which just goes to show you when the Japanese come up with a ludicrous name for something, the Germans will say “Halte mein Bier.” Any guy that willfully uses the term MBUX is the same guy that wears socks with his sandals.
Don’t be that guy.
Essentially, it works like this: Anything even remotely connected with infotainment goes through an on-board powerful computer system that then displays relevant info, via screens and graphics. All displays can be customized to your individual needs. There’s a full-color, heads-up display for navigation and augmented reality for the driver. An Alexa-like voice control system activates with a jaunty “Hey Mercedes.”
No word about whether this works for those of you that name their cars. So if you say something like “Hey Bob, show me the route to mom’s place,” I cannot guarantee it will respond.
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 interior layout. Photo: MBUSA.
Related: Mercedes-Benz goes in a different direction with the new GLS.
Safety & Security
There are a bunch of driver assist and safety systems for the Mercedes-Benz GLB. Mercedes says the new GLB has the same “cooperative support for the driver and functionality from the S-Class.” No, I don’t know exactly either, but I take that to mean the GLB has a lot of the same stuff found on the flagship S-Class. For example, the GLB has improved camera and radar systems that can look up to 1,641 feet ahead, and can drive partially autonomously in certain situations. Thanks!
The GLB can alter its speed before corners, crossroads or roundabouts using the Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC system. It references on-board maps and navigation data in addition to what the sensors are telling it. There’s also Active Steering Assist, a new feature, along with Active Lane Change Assist, Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC, and some unnamed gizmo that allows the GLB to automatically restart in traffic jams.
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250. Photo: MBUSA.
Availability & Future Considerations
Look, why mince words here: Mercedes-Benz has forgotten nothing (more or less) and if you are the owner/driver/passenger of/in a GLB, you will want for nothing (more or less). The only real question is how much, which might mean you will be wanting for a fatter bank account, but hey, who doesn’t.
Besides, if you’ve got a family of seven, you’re more than familiar with account balances and such. And you’re more than familiar with what vehicles will do the job and which ones won’t. The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 goes on sale later this year. It’s up to you if it will fulfill what your family needs.
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. 
Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 Gallery

















Photos & Source: MBUSA.



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1980 Volkswagen Scirocco S: The Future Is Our Fault

1980 Volkswagen Scirocco S: The Future Is Our Fault Who’s Jason Whipple? What’s all this change stuff? Who did the graphics? Is he serious? How old is this thing really? What has he done to this 1980 Volkswagen Scirocco S? Who’s Jason Whipple?
The short answer is that Jason Whipple is a guy with the time, inclination, and bank account to mess around with VWs. We gearheads are all like this, in our own ways. Or at least that’s my belief. I bet, given the situation of being independently wealthy, but not over-the-top rich, we would find enough space, find enough cash, and find enough time to own more than a couple of ___________(fill in blank to taste).
A Taste For Volkswagen
To my taste, it would probably be a half dozen or so small, lightweight two seaters. In Jason’s case, co-founder of the California-based Rotiform Wheels, that taste runs to Volkswagen products of a certain vintage and stripe. Whipple purchased his first car, a 1986 Jetta GLI 8v, as a teenager and has been a VW enthusiast ever since. Now in his forties, he owns a VW Golf R in the new Spektrum Irish Green color and three Sciroccos.
“They are the quintessential, affordable sports car,” Whipple said of his 1980 Volkswagen Scirocco S. “They are right and nimble and, because of that, move with grace and balance. It’s hard to find that in a modern car today.”
This particular one despite the, uh, looks, is not a vintage racer from back in the day. The (sad) truth is that very few people raced Sciroccos when they first came out. They are basically chop top Rabbit/Golfs that, unfortunately, weigh more. Do I have to go into why cars should never, ever, weigh more than they should? No. No I do not.
“It’s a fantastic little car and I’m shocked at how many people don’t know what it is,” Whipple said.
More than 500,000 of the Mark 1 Scirocco were sold between 1974 and 1981, although the car was not as popular in the United States as in Europe. Designed by famous automotive designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Scirocco was more a style statement versus a top-speed machine.
Throwback Design
So, although this car looks like a vintage racer from 1980, it was only recently painted to look the way it does. It looks like something a local racer in 1980 would have his friend, who just got a paint gun, spray up. It resembles an album cover for an annoying new wave band called something like The High Tops or Martha! Makes Muffins. Or it looks like something from a 20-year-old video game where they said “We need a race car” but no one working on the game was a gearhead, or knew anything about Motorsports and/or sponsorships.
It’s the graphic equivalent of a MUSICBAND t-shirt.
Whipple explains that he crossed paths with fellow “Volkswagen head” and British graphic artist Nicolai Sclater last fall. He originally wanted to team with Sclater on a skateboard deck. Honestly, I can see that, because the graphics on this are rather reminiscent of the old Uncle Wiggley composite skateboards from about the same time period. So yeah, they’re keeping that 1980s, I’ve got a boatload of Chartpak stuff to play with, vibe.
The fully-painted, 1980 Volkswagen Scirocco S made its debut during the 2018 SEMA show in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The Future Is Our Fault
Sclater goes on, at length, about how it reminds him of his glory years, and uses phrases like “rebellious period of life” without any irony, later saying “I was both terrified and thrilled at the same time” when he was given free reign over the car’s canvas. And no, he doesn’t stop there. Sclater, without a hint of self-awareness, says he incorporated some progressive ideas into his design, including phrases like “the future is our fault” and “things won’t change until we do.”
Joe Strummer is dead these 17 years now, and I think about him every time I see a morally-bankrupt politician (i.e. a lot), but I swear if poseurs like Sclater keep this stuff up, Joe will rise from his grave in righteous anger and with furious vengeance to track them down and tell them what is what. Sheesh.
Mixed Messages
Sclater’s B mid-term paper for Art 1040: Art and Modern Man goes on: “It stemmed from two different ideas. The first was the blurry lettering. I was getting frustrated at how insignificant art is becoming on Instagram and that’s generally where most people are obtaining their art on a daily basis. They are not looking at books or going to museums. I wanted to do a little practical joke with the audience, so they had to pause and actually engage with the picture. The second part was a call-to-action for onlookers to take stock of their actions and be more considerate of people and the environment. It’s all about working together rather than approaching the world as one massive competition. I think a message like this needs to be carried out in a light-hearted way.”
Yes. He painted an anti-competition message on the side of a competition car.
Jason Whipple spent nearly a decade retrofitting his 1980 Volkswagen Scirocco S, a car he described as a weekend beater.
Million Dollar Baby
And this car, a 1980 VW Scirocco S, is indeed a real race car. Whipple went a little bit funny in the head and took, what he terms a perfectly good car, pulled it apart, and changed everything about it.
“I call it the ‘Million Dollar Scirocco’ because it seemed, at the time, I was spending a million dollars on it,” he explained. “Everything under the hood is 100 percent custom.”
And to Whipple’s credit, it’s more than a set of race slicks on nice wheels.
Alterations include a fully hand-built motor, transmission swap, custom wheels (of course) along with a new engine management system. The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated eight-valve mill puts out around 180 horsepower. Which is enough, given that a stripped out Scirocco weighs a coupe hundred pounds less than a first gen Miata. Still, why they say it’s a drag car makes no sense to me, but that’s kind of beside the point. What it is, ultimately, is a fun car; a tuned version of an old car that’s probably a blast to drive but an ocular cramp to look at.
“It certainly sparks conversation,” Whipple said. “I have no regrets.”
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. 



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Choosing the Best Car Rental Service

Choosing the Best Car Rental Service

There are many different reasons why people choose to rent a car. It could be because they are on an out-of town or out-of-country trip and need a means of transportation for a certain period of time. It could also be because their cars are being repaired and need another car replacement for short period of time. Whatever the reasons are for hiring or renting a vehicle, often the a main concern for these users is how to select the best car rental company among the numerous agencies available.



In leasing for a vehicle, one always try to get the best possible car at a great price. Start by outlining the budget on car rental. It is best to allot a certain amount that may be slightly over than what is actually needed to be prepared for whatever may come up. Then set out and determine the kind of car is needed. An in-depth information about the car to be rented is very important. Good gas mileage is also a key element in choosing the right car. Be sure to know and remember that trucks, sport utility vehicles and other large cars may be appealing for their capacity or appearance but these car types eat a lot of fuel on the road. The number of passengers needed for the car may also play an important role in deciding which car to rent as to its seating capacity. The make of the car must also be taken into consideration in choosing a car. A sleek car may have a higher chance of breaking down if taken to a rough road or area when it is only suitable in a smooth road or freeway drive. Various cars should be examined for quality to choose the best possible car.


Next step is to look for is the car rental company. This part may prove to be hard as one may search the yellow pages and internet and be lost with the abundant number of companies offering car rental services. It is a must, especially for first time users of car rental agencies, to pick a reputable if not large rental company to assure the user there are no tricks in the deal and that the cars are in good running condition. In an online shopping for car rentals, the user or shopper may find coupons on a particular size and kind of car. These coupons may be printed out or used directly online to avail a slightly bigger vehicle of the same price. The user may also compare the rates provided by various companies. One company may offer a lower cost than the others but the vehicles are in not so good working condition so one must choose the best practical deal available.


The policy and rental agreement of the company must be read and understood carefully prior to rental to be aware of the rules and their implications. If the rental company and car are already chosen, before leaving the lot or location where the rented car is parked, identify if there are already present scratches or clings. If there are part of the car such as the wind shield wipers, which do not work properly, it would be wise to ask for a replacement.





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