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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2009-aston-martin-vantage-v8-convertible-2009-aston-martin-vantage-v8-convertible-midnight-blue/2009 Aston Martin Vantage V8 Convertible 2009 Aston Martin Vantage V8 Convertible Midnight Blue
Automoblog Book Garage: Supercar Revolution
Our Book Garage series showcases what every gearhead and enthusiast should have in their library.
What exactly is a sports car? Not that long ago, within my lifetime, that was an easy question to answer. Now things become much more hazy. We no longer have just sports cars because now we have to add “supercars” into that discussion; and, as of late, “hypercars” are all over the automotive world. A gorgeous book by John Lamm, Supercar Revolution, traces the history of when sports cars became supercars, then became hypercars. In essence, it chronicles the battle for performance supremacy among these high-dollar machines.
Supercar Revolution: The Fastest Cars of All Time
This is all Lamborghini’s fault. Being the young upstart company they were, back in 1967, engineering conservatism was not in their vocabulary. It was clear from a performance standpoint a mid-engine car was the way to go. Yet a decade or so since John Cooper and Jack Brabham drove that point home, the high-end sports car world was still replete with big, front engine, rear-wheel drive choices.
The Lamborghini Miura blew that notion into a cocked hat. While Ferrari’s Daytona (really called the 365 GTB/4) was the king of the mountain, the Miura was a clean sheet of paper; new idea from new minds. It was also, arguably, the first supercar. It is with this event, starting with the old chestnut retelling of Enzo and Ferruccio’s fight about how to build sports cars, that our book in question – Supercar Revolution: The Fastest Cars of All Time, written by John Lamm – starts.
Supercar Revolution: The Fastest Cars of All Time, page 10: Lamborghini Miura & Ferrari Daytona. Photo: John Lamm.
On The Prowl
Lambo’s shot across the bow of Ferrari, and any other traditionally-oriented car maker of the time, sent us on the path to where we find ourselves today: staring down the barrel of something as strange and beautiful and terrible as a La Ferrari or a Porsche 918 or a McLaren P1. These are not sports cars. These are not even supercars (book title notwithstanding). No, these are hypercars. Cars of such technological aspiration and execution; such physics-bending performance that it is almost insane they sell them to anyone with a licence and a good check.
But here they are, out on the street; our streets, rolling among us; looking side-to-side, waiting, waiting for that next gap in traffic, that next open stretch of road, that next green light.
Related: This book about the Monaco Grand Prix captures it perfectly.
Stunning Illustrations
And this is a point Supercar Revolution drives home, page after page, and photo after photo. While we’re on the subject: Dig these shots man! The photos within the 240 page book are gorgeous art shots of two types. Either they are in-studio photos set against a black limbo background; or they’re outdoor, in situ shots of staggeringly-beautiful cars poised on race tracks, or parked just so out in front of villas of olde, or gardens verdant, or race tracks beckoning. You’ve seen Top Gear, right? The BBC program is known (primarily) for two things: doing foolishly-entertaining stuff with cars, and two – really good photography. Supercar Revolution is like the second, only in still form.
The horrible expectation is that with both the subject matter and the glorious photography, evidenced by the cover’s fantastic, rain-dappled three-quarter shot of a La Ferrari, this would be a coffee table book. A book that looks great, but has all the written flair of a vacuum cleaner manual. But no! This is not the case! Supercar Revolution is rather wonderfully-written by Lamm, a longtime notable car scribe and photographer. He is an alumnus of Road & Track and Motor Trend, and has created other nicely-done books and special pieces found hither and yon.
Supercar Revolution: The Fastest Cars of All Time, page 137: McLaren F1. Photo: John Lamm.
Star Power
Indeed the R&T connection runs deep throughout Supercar Revolution. Not only does Lamm get his two cents in about high performance cars of the last 50 years, but he talks with a bunch of well-known gearheads, fellow writers, drivers, and outright racers. Jay Leno gives his opinion here and there, pipe-hitting champions like Phil Hill and Paul Frère are mentioned; René Dreyfus gets a shot. He even gives space to Jerry Wiegert, that half-huckster/hudry-gurdy man that gave (or said he was going to give) the world the Vector Aeromotive W2.
Pride of The Coffee Table
It’s a really good book, in both words and pictures, and the downsides are pretty minimal. One is how the cars covered get more frequent as time gets closer to our present day – but that just reflects how there are more super and hyper cars available now. Consider Ferrari, Porsche, Lamborghini, and Aston Martin; and boutique makers like Pagani, Bugatti, Saleen, and Ultima. The other miss is, apart from that gorgeous cover, the La Ferrari is not within the book itself. Sort of like writing a book about mountains and failing to mention Mount Everest.
But really, overall, Supercar Revolution is a great book. It will look good on your shelf or “left out” on your coffee table.
Supercar Revolution by John Lamm
Hardcover: 240 pages
Publisher: Motorbooks; 1 edition (November 13, 2018)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 076036334X
ISBN-13: 978-0760363348
Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 1 x 11.5 inches
Shipping Weight: 2.9 pounds
Price at the time of this writing: from $21.22 (hardcover) on Amazon.
About The Author
John Lamm is an award-winning automotive journalist and photographer who covers sports and racing cars for Road & Track. After attending a road race at Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, he decided to become an automotive journalist and began his career with Motor Trend magazine in Los Angeles. In 1975, he moved to Road & Track, where he remains editor-at-large to this day. Lamm has won the International Motor Press Association’s Ken Purdy Award and the Motor Press Guild’s Dean Batchelor Award.
Supercar Revolution Gallery
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/automoblog-book-garage-supercar-revolution/2019 Lexus RC F Review: Come For The Luxury, Stay For The Soundtrack
This week, we checked out the latest version of the RC F and we were not disappointed.
2019 Lexus RC F: What’s New?
There aren’t many changes for 2019, but the RC does get a limited 10th Anniversary Edition package. Highlights include Matte Nebula Gray paint, blue Brembo brake calipers, black 19-inch BBS forged wheels, and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. Only 240 vehicles in the United States received the package.
Features & Options: Tech & Safety
Our 2019 Lexus RC F Sport tester ($64,650) came standard with LED headlights, automatic high beams, auto-dimming mirrors, and adjustable drive modes. The Lexus Display Audio interface pairs with a seven-inch screen and knob controller for the infotainment and climate settings. The RC F is standard with Scout GPS Link, a USB port, and a 10-speaker sound system with HD and satellite radio, and a CD player. Other features include power-adjustable front seats with memory settings, simulated leather upholstery, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and a rearview camera.
Safety tech includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keeping assist (Lexus Safety System+ package). Lexus Enform Safety Connect is complimentary for the first 10 years of ownership and gives you access to response centers during an emergency. Automatic collision notification, an emergency assist button, and a stolen vehicle locator gave us the most peace of mind.
2019 Lexus RC F.
Features & Options: Safety & Style
This RC F tester included the Premium package ($3,240), adding blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, automatic wipers, auto-dimming side mirrors, parking sensors, heated and ventilated front seats, and carbon-fiber interior trim. There’s also the Performance package ($5,500) with a torque-vectoring rear differential, carbon-fiber roof, and a speed-activated, carbon-fiber rear spoiler.
The navigation system ($2,725) came with the Remote Touch interface (a 10.3-inch screen and touchpad controller), two USB ports, voice controls, a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, and six-CD/DVD changer. Upgraded LED headlights, leather upholstery, 19-inch hand-polished BBS 20-spoke alloy wheels, and orange Brembo brake calipers were among the stand-alone options.
Total MSRP including destination: $80,900. By comparison, the 2019 Lexus RC F starts at $47,860.
2019 Lexus RC F interior layout.
Related: The 2019 Lexus GS F is the lion of the Lexus den.
Interior Highlights: Sporty Yet Luxurious
The RC F cabin is practical yet contemporary with unique, sharp curves and angles that match the sport coupe’s exterior design. A protruding curved dash reminds us of the sporty front end that you either love or hate. The F Spec Sport front seats hugged us tight, working especially well during our more spirited driving through mountain corners. The leather seats with the optional Premium package are ventilated for extra comfort. We used them liberally as temperatures reached near 90 degrees in Denver this week.
What we don’t like is the Lexus knob controller on the tech interface. It’s still too difficult just changing the radio channel. Once we did find the right station, the optional Mark Levinson premium sound system is excellent, providing clear audio that doesn’t distort with volume. We cranked the 835-watt, 17-speaker system up and kept the noisy world outside while we jammed.
Those using the RC F for their daily commute will appreciate the numerous predictive traffic data features offered through the navigation system. Likewise, the Lexus Enform App Suite eases those longer commutes, allowing access to popular apps like iHeartRadio, Slacker, and Yelp. However, the RC F isn’t the car for you if you need to haul adults regularly. The backseat is small and useful really just for storage but could accommodate two small children.
2019 Lexus RC F rear layout.
Related: On the road with the 2019 Lexus ES 350 F Sport.
2019 Lexus RC F: Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
A sweet-sounding, 5.0-liter V8 that pumps out an impressive 467 horsepower and 389 lb-ft. of torque powers the 2019 Lexus RC F. The naturally-aspirated engine uses a combination of direct injection and port fuel injectors to achieve a 12.3:1 compression ratio. The V8 is mated to an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift gearbox with paddle shifters for those wanting to shift manually.
The fuel mileage for the RC F is an EPA-estimated 16/25 city/highway and 19 combined mpg. You can probably achieve that if you keep your foot out of it.
Driving Dynamics: A Word of Caution
You will want the 2019 Lexus RC F if you enjoy driving fast! Once you step on the gas, all 467 horses come to life. On the high-performance meter, it pegs! You need to be careful; the RC F is explosive and can get you in trouble quickly, especially on wet or slick surfaces. The summer performance tires are meant for just that, summer. This is not a car for those who live in colder climates!
Driving Dynamics: Sweet, Sweet Sounds
The RC F was developed at places like Fuji Speedway in Japan and the legendary Nürburgring in Germany. We could tell as we swept through the mountain corners near Denver this week. The RC F’s torque-vectoring differential changes left-right torque distribution within 1/1000th of a second, based on the throttle, braking, yaw rate, and longitudinal and lateral G-forces. Combine that with the Linear Adaptive Variable Suspension and SPORT S+ mode, and you have one of the most fun sports cars on the market today.
But the best part? When we stomped on the gas, the sound generator that pipes engine noise into the cabin filled our ears with an amazing exhaust note. When we needed to stop, the Brembo brakes halted us just as quickly as we took off.
The RC F’s torque-vectoring differential changes left-right torque distribution within 1/1000th of a second.
Conclusion: A Worthy Competitor
The 2019 Lexus RC F is able to challenge the best luxury performance coupes in the world. It makes a statement that Lexus can bring serious performance to the game. Lexus also has strong quality and reliability ratings, something the competitors don’t always have.
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 Lexus RC F Gallery
Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2019-lexus-rc-f-review-come-for-the-luxury-stay-for-the-soundtrack/Fast Cars & Pounding Hearts: An Exciting Day With Formula Experiences
I’ve done a lot of cool things behind the wheel: participated in dozens of autocross events, raced in 24 Hours of LeMons and Chumpcar, driven the canyons outside of Los Angeles, and traversed the wilds of Australia’s Fraser Island in a 4×4 Suzuki Jimny. But I never dreamed I’d have an opportunity to ride in, let alone drive a true race car.
That’s something for the bucket list.
One & Only
And that’s exactly the concept Peter Heffring, entrepreneur, software CEO, adventurer, and avid racer – along with his team of highly skilled mechanics – have debuted at Virginia International Raceway, or more locally known as VIR. The place sat vacant until 2000 but has grown considerably in its nearly two decades. Peter’s vision, Formula Experiences, is one such example of how VIR has expanded and flourished – in fact, it’s the only place in America where enthusiasts and race fans can get this close to formula and prototype cars.
Peter didn’t necessarily have a playbook to follow to bring the Formula Experiences concept to fruition, but its execution works: it provides the customer with a personalized experience that cannot be matched. My assignment, should I choose to accept it, was simple enough: arrive at VIR and meet at the Oak Tree Tavern for dinner and orientation.
I accepted.
I arrive early, of course – I simply must sneak in and catch a glimpse of these cars.
Friendly Greetings & Fantastic Machines
As I arrive at the unassuming red building I’m immediately greeted by two friendly faces: Ty, who is Formula Experiences’ General Manager – a pleasant and easy-going guy, always ready to assist – and Chief Engineer Rhys who is on loan to Formula Experiences from the Radical UK plant in Peterborough.
Opened in 1997, Radical builds prototype series racing cars. With seven cars in their current lineup, Radical’s offerings range from the $70,000 “entry level” SR1 for those looking to enter into club sports with a fully prepped race car, to the $250,000 plus RXC GT3. None of these track-specific cars are considered road legal but Radical does offer a version of the RXC for road use, designated for those brave enough to drive it on U.S. streets.
The garage area at Formula Experiences. Photo: Aaron Benson for Automoblog.net.
Commanding Presence
Formula Experiences owns a small fleet of about six of these Prototype-style 2018 Radicals, as well as two Formula-style 2018 Ligier JS F4s for younger drivers ready to make the move to open wheel from karting. Little did I know, but the first car that caught my eye – a bright blue Radical SR3 – would become my track toy for a day.
The Radical SR1s and SR3s at Formula Experiences are otherworldly in their presence: low and wide, with wings, air vents, and roll bars jutting out from all angles. Bodywork that is function first, form a distant memory. This purpose-built track machine may not be considered beautiful in the traditional sense, but it certainly demands attention, even while sitting perfectly still.
Start the engine and blip the throttle just once and every head in a quarter mile radius is going to turn your direction. Presence, passion, speed – “Who is driving that race car? They must be pretty serious. I want to do that some day!”
Make no mistake, these cars were never intended to be driven by novices. However, Peter has structured his program around education by combining virtual reality simulation, classroom lessons, on-track instruction, a ride-along to feel the G-forces and to understand the braking points, as well as a follow-the-leader training approach. Peter can, with this approach, take a novice and make them competent and, more importantly, relaxed and confident in these seemingly out-of-reach racing cars in just one day.
“Driving a race car at VIR is an incredible experience that is not just exhilarating, but also one of the toughest physical and mental challenges,” said Peter Heffring, Formula Experiences Founder. Photo: Formula Experiences.
Early & Energized
We started first thing but the weather at VIR Resort simply couldn’t be better. Clad in my race suit, I arrive a little groggy – I didn’t get much sleep, as I spent all night asking myself over and over again: am I really ready for this?
Peter and his crew are quick with pleasantries and the VR trainers are configured and ready to go. Breakfast will arrive shortly – why not get a few laps in on the trainers before we get started? I sit down at the first trainer and VIR’s South Course is already pulled up – an exact digital reproduction of the track we’re about to drive. The trainer is surprisingly realistic with solid haptic feedback, great surrounding visuals, and slight movements in the seat to simulate weight transfer.
“I bet someone would pay just to do this all day” I think out loud, and Peter is quick to note that it’s certainly an option. A fully-customized opportunity for each person is at the heart of Formula Experiences’ objectives.
The simulator allows attendees to practice before hitting the track. Photo: Aaron Benson for Automoblog.net.
Professional Equipment
We get to chatting a bit more and Peter lets me know these aren’t your typical racing SIMs – these are professional trainers that Peter uses to hone his skills before any competition, spending countless hours right here, learning every corner. You can compare your times to professional drivers around the world to see how you stack up. They, under the guise of pseudonyms, use this very same setup in their own professional training programs.
Fast-forward a bit and I’ve spun or walled my virtual race car a dozen times – I’ve hardly made it around the track without doing something completely moronic. Of course, I’ve never been good at racing games so it’s probably just me, right? The other guys working the trainers next to me are doing just fine and I wonder again: am I really ready for this?
Class In Session
We move to the classroom portion of our day, reviewing safety concerns, going over track conditions, flagging, and other track tips. But Peter has a slightly different approach which I really appreciated: Formula Experiences uses a video narrated by a professional driver to go over every minute detail of the exact course we are about to drive from the perspective of the car we’re about to step into – fantastic.
The classroom doesn’t end there as we pile into Peter’s SUV so he can take us on the track to discuss the setup for each corner, navigation, and what to look for. The simulator still has me a bit on edge but the classroom training and on-course training has helped significantly.
Upon looking at his car, Automoblog’s Aaron Benson began to wonder, “Am I really ready for this?”
Locked & Loaded
My nerves move from apprehension to excitement as we pull back into headquarters. We begin preparing and head to the garage where Peter has selected the aforementioned stunning blue SR3 as my track toy for the day. With a zero to 60 time of 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 147 mph, this car is undoubtedly fast, but the real stat here that begs all the attention is this: lateral G-force in the 2.3 range – no road-going car is even close to this level.
In fact, the fastest cars you can imagine – Porsche, Ferrari, GTR – barely break 1 G.
I load up my cameras and Chief Engineer Rhys goes over his final checks on the car. Formula Experiences leaves nothing to chance and they live by the mantra that an over-prepped car is the best and only option. If the car is right, very little can go wrong and in this business, nothing can ever go wrong.
I awkwardly lower myself into the SR3. Carbon fiber and racing harnesses surround me. A few switches and dials, and with the push-button start, the car roars to life.
“Rev her up to 2,000 rpm or so and count to five while you let out the clutch – everyone stalls the first time.”
I stall it at least three times before I get a feel for the clutch engagement and then eventually pull off with a jerk and a rumble.
Driving through the paddock at low speed was interesting in itself. Every single pair of eyes is watching, wondering and I imagine lusting at the sight of such incredible machines. We enter the South Course and Peter goes straight onto the track. I follow.
Fish Hook
The rush of air sucking into the intake just behind my head, the G-forces thrusting me deep into the carbon racing seat, the sound of the motor pushing towards the 10,000 rpm rev limiter, and the crack of the gearbox as gear changes are clicked off in milliseconds from the paddle shifters – this thing is incredible! My first thoughts are lost as euphoria washes over me. My left foot finds the dead pedal (these cars are fully automatic once out of neutral) and my right foot goes to the floor.
Second gear, third gear, fourth gear, and then hard on the brakes down, down, down to second, look for the apex and turn-in and OH MY GOD – the grip is insane! I’ve never felt anything like it!
Clip the apex, eye the exit, the car settles and back on the throttle, foot to the floor – third gear, fourth gear, the track dips and turns skyward and it’s hard back on the brakes. Up and over and into the Spiral, a very fun section of the South Course that corkscrews down into a hard left, find my exit back on the throttle and into the Fish Hook – you can hold your speed with an early exit here, track out and back to flat as you push the car up and over a small blind.
VIR is located at the border of North Carolina and Virginia. The track, which features 17 turns and 130 feet of elevation changes, is among the most challenging in North America. Photo: Formula Experiences.
Oak Tree
I lose my nerve and let off the gas as the track comes back into focus, through the south bend, back on full-throttle, and the car screams as I dive into Oak Tree . . . poor thing. (An actual oak tree was VIR’s iconic landmark until it came down in 2013.) Oak Tree is a fast corner if you have the experience and don’t stare down the tire wall; otherwise, it’s a constant annoyance where you take the corner too slowly each time.
I fall into the latter category but the payoff comes next: exiting the Oak Tree I track out, mash the pedal and click through all six gears on the front straight. I hit 120 mph and then squeeze on the brakes hard, down, down, down, down to second before doing it all over again.
Attention To Detail
The experience around the track is exhilarating but what’s going on behind the scenes is even more impressive. Peter and his team constantly ask questions, monitor progress and look for every opportunity to keep us relaxed, engaged, having fun, and achieving the ultimate objective: getting faster. Every time I pitted, Rhys & Ty scrambled to help me out of the car while checking the car’s vitals. Rhys, with his laptop plugged in, was gathering and reviewing every piece of data – and my SR3 was performing flawlessly.
We talked through everything and after a bit of one-on-one coaching from Peter, I’m back in the seat.
Packaging & Pricing
I lost count of how many laps I put in, but I wouldn’t be surprised if that number approached or surpassed the 50 mark. Through it all I felt a total connection with the Radical SR3, Peter, his crew, and Formula Experiences but with packages starting at $1,995 for a one-day driving experience (training, coaching, ride-alongs, and six driving sessions) plus $1,000 for the recommended insurance, Formula Experiences isn’t exactly an inexpensive day at the track.
An all-inclusive luxury experience package runs around $6,000.
There are multiple packages, each one custom-tailored based on personal preference. They range from ride-alongs and night rides, to full driving experiences, track days, and company events. Formula Experiences has a calendar on their website that shows dates and availability of each session.
Photo: Formula Experiences.
Consensus
I look at this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and from that perspective, and compared to the cost of similar on-track driving experiences I investigated, the price tag falls in line for a full day session. You get to appreciate how extreme aero works, feel two Gs of grip, and you get a ton of seat time with Formula Experiences.
Put it on your list – it’s worth saving up for.
Aaron Benson is a life-long auto enthusiast, shade-tree mechanic, and freelance writer with years of experience competing in Autocross, 24 Hours of LeMons, and Chumpcar. He resides out of Raleigh, North Carolina and his other interests include software, mountain biking, ice hockey, and Magic the Gathering. Connect with him here on LinkedIn.
Stats & Facts
Radical SR1
0-60: 3.5 seconds
Top Speed: 138 mph
Horsepower: 175
Weight: 1080 lbs
Power to weight: 6.17 lbs/hp
Lateral G-force: 1.9 g
Radical SR3
0-60: 3.1 Seconds
Top Speed: 147 MPH
Horsepower: 225
Weight: 1367 lbs
Power to weight: 6.08 lbs/hp
Lateral G-Force: 2.3 g
VIR South Course
Length: 1.65 miles
Number of corners: 9
Elevation change: 371’
Lowest point: 32’ above sea level (Spiral)
Highest point: 403’ above sea level (Oak Tree)
Disclaimer: Formula Experiences provided Aaron the same track day experience a customer would receive, in exchange for an honest review. This article was not sponsored or paid for in any way.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/fast-cars-pounding-hearts-an-exciting-day-with-formula-experiences/2019 GMC Sierra Elevation: Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
“The 2019 Sierra Elevation conveys a youthful, athletic presence that demonstrates GMC’s tailored approach,” explained Rich Latek, GMC Marketing Director. “With inherent truck capabilities and functionality, Elevation is able to take you off the beaten path along with your gear while standing out from the pack.”
Heavy Equipment
While “High Country” may indeed be a Silverado thing, the Sierra Elevation is poised to climb right over the highest of countries. The truck comes with the X31 Off Road package, which includes unique suspension tuning, Rancho shocks, all-terrain tires, a locking rear differential, Hill Descent Control, protective underbody skidplates, and a heavy-duty air filter.
Bonus items include a two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing and dual exhaust.
The integrated Traction Select System means the truck’s performance can better match the conditions at hand. The system, via a dial, adjusts the transmission shift points, throttle mapping, and other systems to give the Sierra Elevation mountain goat-like footing.
In essence, GMC echoes the sentiments expressed by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell in 1967: There Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.
Styling & Design
If the off-road elements don’t immediately do it, the Sierra Elevation should be easy to spot with its LED C-shape “light blade” designs. This signature look includes LED fog lamps and further C-shaped LED elements within the taillights. We see plenty of black exterior accents from the grille insert and tow hooks, to the side window trim and 20-inch aluminum wheels.
The monochromatic door handles, bumpers, and grille surround finish off the truck.
In general, regardless of trim level, the 2019 Sierra is the boldest-looking, most chiseled Sierra in the modern era.
2019 GMC Sierra Denali. Photo: GMC.
Power & Performance
The Sierra Elevation will put the heat to the pavement, gravel, or mud with a range of engines and transmissions. The evergreen 5.3 and 6.2 return, although they are redesigned for weight savings and better performance. The 5.3 and 6.2 contain the new Dynamic Fuel Management system, a replacement for the current Active Fuel Management. Under the new system, the engine is allowed 17 different modes of cylinder deactivation to boost performance and efficiency.
Standard on the Elevation is a new 2.7-liter turbocharged engine paired to an eight-speed automatic. The engine produces 310 horsepower and 348 lb-ft. of torque. Early next year, the Elevation will be optioned with a new 3.0-liter Duramax connected to a 10-speed automatic.
2019 GMC ProGrade Trailering System. Photo: GMC.
Hauling The Convoy
GMC says the Sierra Elevation will handle all the gear one can pile on: kayaks, mountain bikes, motorcycles and ATVs, camping and fishing equipment; nothing is off limits. There are more tie-downs, larger rear corner steps, and the available “GearOn rails” to make loading and securing cargo easier.
A 120-volt outlet in the rear supplies power to whatever equipment adventure seekers have in tow.
And when you gotta tow, you gotta tow! GMC’s new ProGrade Trailering feature is an option for the Elevation. The system includes a pre-departure checklist, trailer light test, tire pressure monitoring for the trailer, and maintenance reminders, plus a compatible smartphone app.
Pricing & Availability
The 2019 Sierra Elevation comes as a double cab in either two-wheel or four-wheel drive. Expect the truck at GMC dealers this fall with pricing information due closer to that time.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Photos & Source: GMC.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2019-gmc-sierra-elevation-aint-no-mountain-high-enough/Seven Tips From Chevrolet For Surviving Pothole Season
Maybe it’s because I’ve never lived in a section of the world with what you would call a “real winter,” but this whole idea of a pothole “season” strikes me as rather odd. Yes, I do understand the semi-geologic concepts here; frost heaves, water-to-ice expansion through fissures and all that, but it still is odd for me to consider them as having a season, like daffodils or something.
Well, they do, and Chevy, of all people, is here to help us out so we don’t gronk our suspensions any more than we have to.
Gronk Nation
I can get behind this 100% actually. Since I usually drive around in lightweight sports cars, I’m already used to violently swerving around big divots, chuck holes, sinkholes, small-to-medium-sized impact craters, and the like – can’t go driving around with a less than optimal chassis setup now can we? Anyway, these seven tips – let us call them “The Seven Pillars of Pothole Wisdom & Avoidance” – do indeed come from Chevy in a presser slugged “Detroit” in the header information. My first thought was, “Detroit? Pothole problems? Quelle surprise!”
I have two good friends from Detroit, both named Carl, coincidentally, and they both have tales to tell about Detroit-grade potholes that could swallow an Abrams tank whole. You know, this entire “Detroit Vs. Everybody” thing ain’t just a slogan, it’s a verifiable mindset. So if anybody on this planet is going to know about how to survive potholes, it’s going to be a car company based in Detroit.
Chevy starts out with this kind of old-folksy intro: “While rough road conditions seem unavoidable this time of year, Chevrolet engineers have developed the following tips and tricks to help you and your car survive pothole season.”
Gee willikers mister! Could ya teach me more about potholes and how to avoid them?
You bet ya champ!
Look Ahead & Slow Down
Now, this should kind of go without saying, but since this advice is aimed at Americans, the same people who need warning labels on Claymore mines, it’s best to start with the basics. The whole point of pillar #1 is to look ahead and scrutinize for potential potholes in your path. Further, if you can avoid them, do so. If you cannot, slow down you slack-jawed yokel.
Do you honestly think your left front taking a wallop akin to a punch from Drax The Destroyer is good for your car? If you do, stop reading (I know, assuming you can read might be a bit too generous) and hand over your keys to the proper authorities. You don’t show the mental capacity for the task at hand.
According to pothole.info, areas with poor drainage are most susceptible to developing potholes. This includes where roads dip and where traffic, especially heavy vehicle traffic, is high. Photo: Chevrolet.
Avoid Water
Now, think about this for a second: if you come up on a puddle, do you really know how deep it is? It could just be a puddle, or it could be a pothole the size of a kiddie pool that will now demonstrate just how solid those fillings in your molars are. Besides, if you can, you should avoid puddles anyway since they can differentially cool your brakes and get moisture on your tires further compromising performance.
Check Tire Pressures
The fact that Chevy (or myself) even have to mention this makes me deeply cheerless. The fact that you, dear readers of a car oriented site, might be running around out there with your tires not properly inflated for optimal handling qualities is just . . . sigh . . . sorry, just make sure your tires are up to pressure. Please. You’ll enjoy your car more, for one thing, and it can make an important difference in avoiding pothole damage. If your tire is underinflated a pothole can cause a rupture. If it’s overinflated, tires are even more vulnerable to pothole damage.
Check For Damage
If for some reason you do drill over a pothole at speed, check your car directly for any possible damage. Evaluating damage now prevents further damage to your car later on, like when that weakened tie-rod finally does give way and you go careening into a lawyer’s Bentley in the oncoming lane.
Potholes are formed over time by water, freeze-thaw cycles, excessive heat, and wear and tear on the road. Photo: Chevrolet.
Know What To Find
This one is kind of obvious, but, duh, potholes can cause more than just tire damage. You can also seriously gronk rims, sproing off exhaust systems, knock your alignment into the next county, and such. So if you bradawl a pothole and the next thing you know your ride is making noises or pulling in one direction or swerving all over the place in a barely controllable manner, “be sure to take it into a professional to be assessed.” NOW! Don’t wait. Don’t screw around with this.
Take care of it now, or you might find your self in the aforementioned lawyer/Bentley scenario. NOW!
Help Your Fellow Drivers
Now, I do realize this entire concept of “helping” your fellow road users is complete anathema to, well, everyone East of the Mississippi and North of the Ohio River – seriously, when was the last time you saw a Boston driver (to pick just one at random) be altruistic to another motorist? Have you ever driven around Pittsburgh or Philly or the entire upper half of Jersey? It’s like a Mad Max novelization written by Ayn Rand out there. But this point (although hard for you to initially follow and perhaps, just perhaps, going against how you were raised and the environment you were brought up in) is pretty simple: Report any potholes to your city, county, and state transportation authorities.
Remember, we are the government, and we have to make it work for us. So call up whoever deals with this and make them take care of it.
Be Prepared
Our final pillar in “The Seven Pillars of Pothole Wisdom & Avoidance” is the old Boy Scout adage: simply be prepared. If you’re a gearhead, I shouldn’t have to remind you to make sure there’s a jack and a lug wrench in your trunk. And I shouldn’t have to make sure the spare tire is properly inflated to its correct pressure in case you need to change a flat. This is simple, so just do it.
For more resources on potholes and their lasting effects on society, visit pothole.info. Good luck out there.
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.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Photos & Source: Chevrolet, pothole.info.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/seven-tips-from-chevrolet-for-surviving-pothole-season/2017 Fiat 500 Arriving With Fun New Appearance Packages
Soon to be even more cute, the Fiat 500 is getting a handful of new optional appearance packages. Sport Black Trim, Two-Tone, and Abarth Roof, Mirror Cap, and Body Stripe will give new 500 models a distinct flare, which Fiat says is all about individuality.
“With its iconic, timeless, head-turning Italian design, the Fiat 500 continues to offer the ultimate in individual expression,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Car Brands, Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT – FCA North America.
Living Big
Fiat continues to build on two cornerstones: passion and self-expression. The Fiat 500 or Cinquecento is sold in more than 100 countries but remains Italian at heart. With its longstanding heritage, the car is a simple, stylish, and functional machine with the right blend of performance and technology. The new appearance packages for the 500 will provide customers with more flavors for this little-bodied, big-at-heart cruiser.
“With new custom appearance packages and a full menu of options, customers can get exactly what they want while creating their own fun-to-drive personal statement,” Kuniskis said.
Jet Black
The Sport Black Trim Package, available on the 2017 Fiat 500 Pop, features a body-color sport fascia, fog lamps, and 16-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels. Other blacked-out elements include the headlamps, roof, side sill ground effects, side-view mirror caps, spoiler, and tail lamps. Sport cloth bucket seats on the inside feature silver accent stitching which contrast nicely with the black instrument panel.
The MSRP for the Sport Black Trim Package is $1,295.
2017 Fiat 500 Pop with Two-Tone Appearance Package. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Two-Tone Styling
The Two-Tone Appearance Package, also available on the 2017 Fiat 500 Pop, features a Nero (black), Rosso (red) or Bianco (white) accent roof and matching mirror caps. MSRP for the package is a mere $295; the offset colors between the body and roof look pretty cool when contrasting against each other.
Abarth Treatments
The Abarth Roof, Mirror Cap, and Body Stripe Appearance Package provides the above roof color choices (Nero, Rosso, Bianco) but adds Rhino (gray) as an additional color. The same colors may be chosen to further accent the mirror caps, body-side stripe, roof, and spoiler from the rest of the car. MSRP for the Abarth Roof, Mirror Cap, and Body Stripe Appearance Package is $495.
2017 Fiat 500 Abarth with Roof, Mirror Cap, and Stripe Appearance Package. Photo: FCA US LLC.
500 Trims & Variants
The 2017 Fiat 500 has three trim levels: Pop, Lounge, and Abarth. Available options for all three include an automatic transmission ($995) and a sunroof ($795). Any Fiat 500 model may be ordered as a Cabrio for an additional $1,495. Fiat’s 500 variants include the 500c (Cabrio), the high-performance Fiat 500 Abarth and Abarth Cabrio, the fully electric 500e, the five-passenger Fiat 500L, and the 500X crossover. The latter is avaialbe with all-wheel drive.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2017-fiat-500-arriving-with-fun-new-appearance-packages/Ford Attracting Younger, More Affluent Buyers With Sporty Cars
Recently, Ford Motor Company shed some light on their SUV strategy, and highlighted their promising future sales projections in that segment. While American automakers have traditionally cornered the truck and SUV markets, it appears Ford now has a leg up on cars.
According to the New Vehicle Customer Study by MaritzCX, Ford’s sporty car customers are now younger and more affluent on average. Generally speaking, younger customers are drawn to Ford’s more athletic and sporty car variants.
Vehicle Metrics
The Ford Fiesta ST is a perfect example. The average Fiesta buyer is 45, but the average age of a Fiesta ST customer is about 35. A similar pattern emerges with the Ford Focus; 46 is the average age of a Focus buyer but the Focus RS and ST are 41 and 36, respectively. Even the larger Fusion follows the metrics with Fusion Sport buyers being an average of three years younger than a traditional Fusion buyer at 48.
Ford is concentrating on younger, repeat buyers here, citing a special interest in Millennials. The generational cohort accounted for a 45 percent increase during the first three months of 2017 in Ford’s more sport oriented car models.
“With repeat customers making up around half of industry sales, capturing younger buyers while they still have many vehicle purchases remaining in their lives is good for business,” said Corey Holter, Ford Car Group Marketing Manager.
2017 Ford Fiesta ST. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Purchasing Prowess
According to Ford’s metrics, Millennial customers have some buying power when it comes to this segment. The average Fiesta buyer has a household income of $59,000, but for the Fiesta ST, that figure jumps to $102,000. The average Focus buyer brings home $63,000, while Focus ST and Focus RS customers show much higher household incomes at $108,000 and $169,000, respectively.
Ford also credits their EcoBoost line of engines and the “hot hatchback” movement for the sales increase. Hatchbacks are generally thought to be more stylish and versatile, whereas EcoBoost engines are designed to deliver more power and greater fuel economy.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/ford-attracting-younger-more-affluent-buyers-with-sporty-cars/Volvo Cars CEO Håkan Samuelsson Urging Change, Sustainability
Volvo Cars addressed what they describe as a “changing world” today at the UN Global Compact Nordic Network in Gothenburg, Sweden. Over 190 delegates from 100 companies are meeting at Volvo’s headquarters over the next two days to discuss how businesses can support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The automaker is a founding member of the UN Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative.
Volvo Cars President and Chief Executive Officer, Håkan Samuelsson is the host of the event.
“Our customers want safer, more sustainable and convenient cars,” he said during the opening remarks. “We can meet that demand, be a force for change, and grow our business at the same time.”
Business Critical
Volvo is advocating the entire automotive industry responsibly adapt to the unique demands of today’s customer. As car ownership evolves and buying preferences shift, Samuelsson believes companies committed to sustainability will be successful. Samuelsson is using the two day event to highlight Volvo’s commitment to sustainable business as an integral part of the company’s mission. The timing is excellent too – a 2015 Nielsen global online study found almost three-out-of-four Millennials are willing to pay extra for sustainable products.
“Brands that establish a reputation for environmental stewardship among today’s youngest consumers have an opportunity to not only grow market share but build loyalty among the power-spending Millennials of tomorrow,” said Grace Farraj, Nielsen Senior Vice President, Public Development & Sustainability, at the time of the study.
Samuelsson echoed similar sentiments.
“Sustainability is no longer a simple box-ticking exercise, but business-critical as well as a significant business opportunity for those companies that get it right,” he said.
Volvo Cars’ T8 Twin Engine Range. Photo: Volvo Car Group.
Necessary Strides
Volvo is linking their electrification and autonomous initiatives to their sustainability efforts. Currently, Volvo has committed to 1 million electrified vehicles by 2025 with climate-neutral manufacturing operations arriving by that time. Many of the automaker’s active safety technologies are arguably precursors for full on autonomous driving. Volvo acknowledges their ambitious plans here, but insist such plans are necessary when considering future environmental and safety impacts.
“We recognize the limitations of the internal combustion engine and the appetite for change in society,” Samuelsson said. “I am confident that our next generation of fully autonomous, electrified, and connected vehicles will help make the cities of the future cleaner, safer, and smarter.”
Visionary Commitments
Volvo’s progress so far includes a 70 percent reduction in C02 emissions from their European manufacturing plants between 2004 and 2016. The automaker’s work with the Belgian government resulted in a 40 percent reduction in CO2 emissions at their Ghent manufacturing facility. Volvo has six plug-in hybrids and plans to offer an electric variant for each vehicle in the lineup. They believe strides like this in sustainability will foster profitability.
Within Volvo’s sustainability vision comes their longstanding safety commitment, both in the vehicle and on the job. Vision 2020 states no person should be seriously injured or killed in a Volvo by that time. Internally, the automaker is working to ensure there are no fatalities or serious injuries to any of their employees or contractors. They are going so far as to offer better filters and materials in the workplace, while developing a more diverse corporate culture.
This year’s annual meeting of the UN Global Compact Nordic Network is taking place at the Volvohallen conference center, part of Volvo Cars’ global headquarters in Sweden, on May 8th and 9th.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Volvo Car Group.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/volvo-cars-ceo-hakan-samuelsson-urging-change-sustainability/
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