Automotive

Jaguar To Debut Compact Performance SUV Next Month

Jaguar To Debut Compact Performance SUV Next Month

Jaguar has announced the new E-PACE, a compact performance SUV meant to expand the automaker’s PACE lineup. The forthcoming E-PACE is said to have sports car like design elements, agile driving dynamics, and functional, everyday practicality.
The E-PACE is the third new nameplate in Jaguar’s already diverse and growing portfolio.
Success Streak
The new E-PACE comes on the heels of the already successful introduction of the Jaguar XE sports sedan and F-PACE performance SUV. The combination has proven effective for the British marquee, with a 44 percent sales growth and increase in the United States as of May. With this expansion comes the all-electric variant of the I-PACE Concept, set to enter production next year; the new E-PACE is expected to go on sale at the beginning of 2018 as well.
“The combination of sports car looks with Jaguar performance will ensure that the E-PACE stands out,” said Ian Callum, Jaguar’s Director of Design.
Performance-Inspired Dynamics
The Jaguar E-PACE features standard all-wheel drive and the brand’s all-Ingenium lineup of internal combustion engines. The new E-PACE will also offer a suite of connected technologies and other convenience features. Callum emphasized the importance of keeping the E-PACE in tune with the automaker’s design and performance ideologies.
“Every Jaguar is designed to excite the senses, and we think E-PACE will do just that, albeit with its own individual character,” he said.
Jaguar’s new compact performance SUV will be revealed to the world on July 13th via an online stream. Lately, Jaguar has been up to some pretty interesting things. The company recently launched their Classic Works facility, a location designed to serve fans and enthusiasts of the brand. The location in Coventry has been referred to as the United Kindgom’s version of a “Motor City.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo & Source: Jaguar Land Rover.

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2018 Subaru Crosstrek Pricing, Trim Levels Announced

2018 Subaru Crosstrek Pricing, Trim Levels Announced

Alright, listen up! Pay attention all you campers, large dog owners that need walking havers, urban dwellers with fully paid-up REI memberships, and especially people that live in areas of the planet with particularly difficult weather: Subaru has finally dished on the cost of the all-new Crosstrek for 2018. Have no fear, it’s not that bad.
We’ll get to the price breakdown for all the variants of Subaru’s Crosstrek in this handy little matrix chart thing at the end, but for now, all you need to know is how the Crosstrek starts at just $100 over the previous generation.
Essential Details
Which means they effectively stay the same as they were last year (i.e. rather affordable) and on top of that, with all of the goodies, tech, safety, and otherwise that Subbie has now thrown into the mix, the 2018 Crosstrek actually gets you more stuff for (relatively) the same amount of cash. The broad brushstroke version is that Crosstreks will run you between $22,710 to $27,210, irrespective of specific options and dealer prep and that sort of stuff. So under $30K for a well equipped, near-SUV is a pretty good deal, but what do you get this time around? What are all the goodies Fuji Heavy Industries as ladled into the Crosstrek without raising the price?
First off, every Crosstrek comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (natch) and is offered with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or CVT, depending on which trim level you choose. I will not go into what a CVT is or how they work because, frankly, I’m not sure. I think it has something to do with an evil magical dwarf trapped within the gearbox casing. Maybe a gnome. Anyway, the 2018 Crosstrek has a new 6-speed manual transmission, an upgrade from last year’s 5-speed. The CVT features a 7-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters if you want to play Petter Solberg and choose between the pre-set ratios yourself.
Subaru’s 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine powers the 2018 Crosstrek. Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.
Power & Performance
All Crosstreks are powered by a revised version of Subbie’s evergreen FB-series 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder Boxer engine, but this time around it gains direct fuel injection for a boost in performance. And now you get 152 ponies to play with, versus last year’s 148, but like all Subarus, gas mileage is a little below what you’d expect. The Crosstrek delivers 23 city, 29 highway, and 25 combined miles per gallon. Yeah, like I said, kind of low, but AWD saps efficiency, and the wider the cylinder spread, the less the efficiency too. Combine those and the Crosstrek, like all Subarus, are little bit on the back foot, mileage-wise.
The new Crosstrek rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and has a whole bunch of new standard features, including a raised Stablex suspension and Active Torque Vectoring. The CVT models have X-MODE and Hill Descent Control for better performance in low-friction and off-road conditions (i.e. “winter” and “rally” environments). The 2018 Crosstrek’s platform improves crash energy absorption by 40 percent for added safety.
Interior Fashions
The interior gets a black simulated carbon fiber finish on the center dash panel, plus the front and rear door panels. A new gloss black rear roof spoiler is standard, and all Crosstreks are equipped with roof rails and black side cladding. On the inside there’s a new 6.5-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Power windows with auto up/down, a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, power door locks and side mirrors, multi-function display with fuel economy information, tilt and telescoping steering column, a security system with engine immobilizer, and carpeted floor mats are all standard.
2018 Subaru Crosstrek Limited interior layout. Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.

Premium & Limited Treatments
Premium trim Crosstreks with the standard 6-speed manual come standard with SUBARU STARLINK Connected Services, and the all-weather package that includes heated front seats, windshield wiper de-icer, heated exterior mirrors, and automatic headlights linked to windshield wiper operation. The windshield is new and sound insulated and welcome lighting is standard. Ticking the “premium” option box also brings other items such as a power moonroof and multiple driver assist systems.
The Limited package above the Premium will come with the CVT with X-MODE and Hill Descent Control, a multimedia-plus system, 18-inch machine finished alloy wheels, keyless access with push-button start and pin code access, 6-way power driver’s seat, and new steering responsive headlights. You also get blind spot detection with lane change assist, and rear cross traffic alert.
The EyeSight system, which is an option, includes adaptive cruise control, automatic pre-collision braking, and lane departure and sway warning. You can also choose the optional navigation system, high beam assist, reverse automatic braking, and overhead console shower light with the Crosstrek Limited. All 2018 Crosstreks include front and side impact airbags, side curtain airbags, and a driver’s knee airbag.
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 SUBARU CROSSTREK
Model/Trim
Transmission
Option Code
MSRP
MSRP + Delivery
2.0i
6MT

‘01

$21,795

$22,710

2.0i
CVT

‘01

$22,795

$23,710

2.0i Premium
6MT

11

$22,595

$23,510

2.0i Premium
CVT

11, 12, 13, 14

$23,595

$24,510

2.0i Limited
CVT

21, 22, 23

$26,295

$27,210

2018 SUBARU CROSSTREK OPTION PACKAGE MSRP
CODE 01 Standard Model 2.0i base 6MT
N/A
CODE 11 Standard Model 2.0i Premium 6MT
N/A
CODE 12 Moonroof + Blind Spot Detection/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert
$1,400
CODE 13 EyeSight® + Blind Spot Detection/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert
$1,395
CODE 14 Eyesight® + Moonroof + Blind Spot Detection/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert
$2,395
CODE 21 Standard Model 2.0i Limited
N/A
CODE 22 EyeSight® with Reverse Automatic Brake + High Beam Assist + Moonroof
$2,095
CODE 23 EyeSight® with Reverse Automatic Brake + High Beam Assist + Navigation System + Harman Kardon® Amplifier and Speakers
$3,445
Photos, Source & Chart: Subaru of America, Inc.

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Report: Mercedes A-Class comes to the US for Millennials

Report: Mercedes A-Class comes to the US for Millennials After 20 years, the Mercedes A-Class sedan is coming over, here’s why
Mercedes thinks it has a volume-selling opportunity in the premium compact market, particularly with the middle-class millennial set. The costs to do research and development on any car have gone up significantly in the past half-century, so sheer volume has become the name of the game. The Mercedes A-Class has been sold over in Europe and other parts of the world since 1997, but the market hasn’t appeared strong in the US for the baby Merc, largely sold as a hatch overseas.
Benz and many others seem to be riding a wave of CUV popularity and have seen some success with marketing compact entry level luxury sedans stateside like the CLA, the BMW 2 series and the Audi A3. This has increased brand awareness for folks making a bit less than the average new Mercedes buyer or lessee 10 years ago—and there may be more of these folks around looking for a new car.
The economy and ‘maturing’ options from high-volume marques make it a good time for the Mercedes A-Class to show up.
20 years ago, a Honda Civic could be had with roll-up windows, no power steering, and a stick across all trims. The Civic now offers available heated rear seats and competes, albeit in Type-R guise, with $40,000 cars. At roughly $32,000, the Mercedes CLA starts lower under the base price of a loaded Civic, and people are buying both of these cars.
The economy in the US has pulled up nicely since the great recession, and the average transaction price of a vehicle in the US is hanging well over the alleged starting price of the A-Class (just under $30,000).
Daimer reportedly showed the Mercedes A-Class to a number of dealers; it may go on sale in September 2018
Various sources are reporting that dealers have been shown the car, which has been given a warm reception. Built on the company’s MFA2 architecture, the car will likely be offered in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive and related to the Concept A sedan pictured below. Much of the competition is offered in this configuration, so MB shouldn’t have difficulty tempting millennials wanting a comfortable transportation pod with a bit of cachét that supports their devices, offers all of the modern safety features, and is available with internet service.

-By: Sawyer Sutton
Source: Automotive News, Carscoops
The post Report: Mercedes A-Class comes to the US for Millennials appeared first on egmCarTech.

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Rezvani TANK Military Edition: When World War Z Strikes, You’ll Be Ready

Rezvani TANK Military Edition: When World War Z Strikes, You’ll Be Ready There are a number of vehicles with which to impress the neighbors. There is the ultra luxury and/or muscle car approach, say a Maserati or old-school Pontiac; or the massive 4×4 approach via the Jeep or Hummer. Up until this point, I would have said any of those vehicles, but these days, if you really want to impress your neighbors – like get them to double take while watering the flowers impress – might I suggest the Rezvani TANK Military Edition.
This. This is what you need.
Power & Performance
The Rezvani TANK Military Edition is the latest in the company’s TANK line and it’s completely street legal. As an automaker, the relatively young Rezvani (established 2014) is building their portfolio of unique and extreme designer vehicles, seen recently in this special edition supercar. Now the TANK Military Edition, an urban warrior fit for World War Z
“We’ve upped the ante with the new TANK Military Edition,” explained CEO Ferris Rezvani. “After the success of TANK, we decided to build a machine with the ultimate security features while maintaining extreme luxury.”
Buyers have two engine options: a 6.4-liter, 500 horsepower V8 or a 6.2-liter 707 horsepower V8. If those figures look familiar, it’s becasue they are sourced from the Dodge Charger and Challenger lineup, the latter engine being of the Hellcat variety. And the TANK Military Edition is lighter than it looks too, clocking in at 4,300 lbs.
It’s likely either of those engines will effectively lose anyone following too close, but in case not, a “Smoke Screen” feature is available to dash would-be stalkers. For unwanted gawkers, magnetic dead-bolts and electrified door handles provide maximum security against unauthorized access.
Photo: Rezvani Motors.
Standard Features
We’re talking a bit more than heated seats and satellite radio here . . . the TANK Military Edition comes equipped with Level 7 glass and ballistics armor, which can withstand high caliber assault weapons and rifles. The radiator, battery, and fuel tank are each wrapped in Kevlar and the underbody is reinforced against explosive devices. A thermal night vision system provided by FLIR displays heat signatures around the vehicle.
There is a Fox suspension, special run-flat tires, strobe and blinding lights, sirens, and a full intercom system with external speakers. First aid and hypothermia kits and gas masks are also provided.
“Designed to withstand urban terrain or apocalyptic attack, TANK is that extreme tactical urban vehicle equipped to handle it all,” Rezvani added.
Photo: Rezvani Motors.
Pricing & Availability
The TANK Military Edition can be reserved now with a $10,000 initial deposit and starting MSRP of $295,000. It takes about 12 weeks (give or take) to have one manufactured. The vehicle can be serviced, according to Rezvani, at any Doge or Jeep dealership.
Bring on the zombies. Bring on the Cloverfield monsters. Bring on Imhotep and his lover.
Or, in my case, bring on the family reunion.
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.
Rezvani TANK Military Edition Gallery

Photos & Source: Rezvani Motors.

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Starting MSRP Announced For 2019 Chevy Silverado Chassis Cab Trucks

Starting MSRP Announced For 2019 Chevy Silverado Chassis Cab Trucks Chevrolet has announced the starting price of the 2019 Silverado chassis cab trucks, set for production later this year. The new chassis cab trucks will begin at $48,465, which includes a $1,495 destination charge. The trucks are designed for a number of uses and industries, including construction, plumbing, landscaping, and agriculture.
The trucks can also be custom equipped for government entities, local utilities, and first responders.
Engine & Transmission
The new Sliverados will come with a Duramax diesel (6.6-liter) with 350 horsepower and 700 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is paired to an Allison transmission with a Power Take Off (PTO) option.
“These new Silverado chassis cabs are a great addition to our lineup because we can now offer small businesses and large fleets a truck that can be upfitted to do many jobs,” said Ed Peper, U.S. Vice President, GM Fleet.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Performance & Capacity
The Chevrolet Silverado 6500HD, despite being similar in size to the 4500HD and 5500HD, comes with a GVWR rating of 22,900 lbs.
“Bucket truck builders, fleet managers, and many other customers told us they face a dilemma when their GVWR needs exceed 19,500 lbs.,” explained John Schwegman, Director of Commercial Product and Medium Duty, GM Fleet.
Schwegman says some opt for more expensive aluminum bodies to save weight but still stay within a Class 5 chassis. Others may spend additional money for a larger truck, giving them more GVWR than necessary.
“The Silverado 6500HD gives them capability and protects their bottom line,” he said. “It’s a great solution.”

Upfitting & Servicing
The truck’s frame is designed with one-piece straight rails with no rivets or brackets on top that would otherwise interfere with the mounting of custom-made bodies. Chevrolet says this design helps save time and money during the upfitting process.
Engineers also spent a great deal of time making sure the new chassis cab trucks were easier to service. For example, the new Silverados have a clamshell hood and a wheel cut of up to 50 degrees to give technicians better engine access.
Dual fuel tanks with a 65 gallon capacity, a factory-installed air suspension, and a full suite of connectivity features like built-in 4G LTE WiFi are available.
Pricing Chart
2019 Chevy Silverado Chassis Cab Base MSRP
Work Truck Trim
4500HD
5500HD
6500HD
Regular Cab
2WD
$48,465
$51,100
$54,575

4WD
$51,365
$54,000
$57,030
Crew Cab
2WD
$52,080
$54,715
$58,190

4WD
$55,580
$58,215
$61,245
2019 Chevy Silverado Chassis Cab Gallery

Photos & Source: Chevrolet.

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The 5 Best SUVs For Exploring The Australian Outback

The 5 Best SUVs For Exploring The Australian Outback Looking for the perfect vehicle to drive on your next Outback adventure with the family? We’ve got you covered in our list of the five Best SUVs for exploring the Australian Outback.
The word “Outback” is used to describe the thinly populated regions of Australia. The Outback covers the area near Uluru/Ayers Rock and Alice Springs (commonly referred to as the “red center”), spanning several thousands of kilometers from north to south and east to west.
Since temperatures in the central deserts can go as high as 120F or 50°C on the hottest summer days, and drop to as low as 15°F (-10°C) on the coldest winter nights, you need a 4×4 vehicle that is tough enough to survive the extreme challenges in the Australian desert.
Here are five of the best SUVs that will allow you to enjoy the stunning scenery, colored sands, and glorious rocks and gorges that only the Australian Outback has to offer.
1. Ford Everest
The Ford Everest is equipped with a unique Torque-On-Demand system. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
First up is the brand spanking new Ford Everest. This SUV is powered by a 3.2-liter five-cylinder Duratorq diesel motor that churns out 192 horsepower and 347 lb-ft. of torque. It is equipped with seating for five or seven adults with a maximum payload of 757kg (1,668 lbs.), a maximum roof load of 100kg (220 lbs.), and a towing capability of up to 3000kg (6,613 lbs.).
The Ford Everest is also equipped with a Torque-On-Demand system that can automatically transfer torque between the front and rear wheels with the most grip, so you won’t find yourself stranded in the middle of nowhere when traversing over adverse terrain. This system can even send all the engine torque to a single wheel if the system detects the other wheels have zero traction.
And since the Australian Outback receives a surprising amount of rainfall, especially in the hot summer months, the Ford Everest’s maximum ground clearance of 225mm (8.85 inches) and maximum water wading depth of 800mm (31.5 inches) will get you home safely even in the presence of deep floods.
2. Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder features a 270 horsepower V6. Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is available in 2WD and 4WD. It’s a known fact you don’t need the complexity and added weight of a four-wheel drivetrain to appreciate the splendor of the Australian Outback, but it certainly helps when faced with slippery and inhospitable terrain.
The base Pathfinder ST 2WD comes with a 3.5-liter, 270 horsepower petrol V6 connected to an Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission or CVT. The Pathfinder ST 4WD comes with an intelligent 4×4 system with hill descent control to offer more grip and traction when you need it. Both models are equipped with seven adult-sized seats, Tri-Zone climate control, and Bluetooth connectivity so you can listen to AC/DC or Crowded House as you toddle along in the desert.
3. Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport has an optional locking rear differential. Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation.
Depending on where you live, the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is also called the Montero Sport in some parts of the world. This vehicle comes well-equipped so you can head-butt Mother Nature into submission. This SUV comes with a 2.4-liter diesel motor equipped with MIVEC variable valve timing to maximize power and torque output. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic; the Super Select II 4WD system offers excellent traction on any type of terrain.
The base GLX trim only comes with seating for five but upgrading to the GLS trim will give you seven seats and a rear differential lock for added off-road toughness. Perhaps the only caveat with the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport are the unusual and polarizing rear taillights. They span from the top of the rear bumper all the way above the rear windshield.
4. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
The Toyota Safety Sense package is also beneficial for city driving. Photo: Toyota Australia.
The Land Cruiser name is associated with toughness, durability, and all-terrain capability. The base model Toyota Land Cruiser Prado GX is motivated by a 2.8-liter turbo diesel mill connected to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive standard is across the range along with 17-inch alloy wheels, satellite navigation, and the Toyota Safety Sense package.
It also comes with a 150-liter fuel tank that is composed of an 87-liter main tank and 63-liter sub tank so you can spend more time exploring the Australian Outback and less time filling up.
5. Subaru Outback
Subaru is known for their symmetrical all-wheel drive technology. Photo: Subaru (Aust) Pty Ltd.
What better way to discover the wild Outback than with the umm . . . Subaru Outback? First things first: this vehicle is not an SUV. It is a family station wagon based on the Subaru Legacy. But unlike ordinary SUVs, the Subaru Outback offers a bit more refinement along with the driving characteristics of a normal saloon. Sadly, Subaru’s outstanding symmetrical all-wheel drive system is only offered in the automatic versions (Lineartronic CVT) of the Outback.
The base model receives a 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder petrol engine that is good for 172 horsepower. The Subaru Outback 3.6R is motivated by a larger 3.6-liter Boxer six-cylinder motor that churns out 256 horsepower. Despite the car-like stance, this vehicle can effectively tow 1500kg (3,306 lbs.) while the 3.6-liter model can tow up to 1800kg (3,968 lbs.).
Conclusion
We specifically chose these five SUVs not only for their ability to survive the Australian Outback, but simply because they are stellar, go-anywhere vehicles that offer elevated levels of comfort and room for the entire family.
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.

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Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works: The UK’s Motor City

Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works: The UK’s Motor City

Jaguar, along with corporate sibling Land Rover, have been doing the factory refurbished thing for a while now. They join the growing trend of auto manufacturers keeping the original flame burning for those who desire, or can afford, factory originality. Their latest press release is slugged as being from “Ryton-on-Dunsmore, UK” and believe me, it only gets more quant and British from there on in.
And it’s not like Jaguar is doing this on purpose or to hype things up, this is the way they naturally are. And, let’s face it, Jaguar is about as British as a marque can get.
Proper Space, Prestigious Cars
And since the British are an everso proper lot, you can’t have your factory classics department taking up an old out building, can you? Oh no, no-no-no. One shant do that. No, if you’re Jaguar, you’re going to open your own special refurbishment “factory” or “works” as they call it in their own charmingly Anglo-centric way. As any gearhead with a project car (or cars) will tell you, you never have enough garage space. You always need a bigger workshop. Jaguar, heeding this well known Truth of the automotive world, went big.
The Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works facility tips the scales at a staggering 150,000 square feet. Jag says it’s the largest of its type in the world, with a dedicated showroom and a whopping 54 workshop bays for restoring and servicing all older Jaguar and Land Rover models. The Classic Works is also home to the Jaguar Land Rover Classic Collection of more than 500 vehicles. Jaguar foolishly points out the cars in the collection are also available for loan to car clubs and museums. This makes me wonder if we could turn Automoblog into a “museum,” but I’ll leave that for management to work out.
Now if you’re rich enough – I have no idea how rich you need to be – but far be it for Jaguar to be so gauche as to mention costs, dear boy – the lineup of available classics to buy is very impressive. Classic Works offers the full range of Legends vehicles including the nine “new” examples of the XKSS, the “Missing Six” Lightweight E-type continuation models, the two-door Range Rover Classic, the 10 Series 1 E-type cars, the Jaguar E-type Reborn, and full restoration services for clients.
Land Rover Reborn Legends. Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.
Exceptional Service
And Jag is not kidding around about stuff like restoration, repair, and maintenance. Literally all models out of production for 10 years or more are welcome to the spa treatment at Classic Works. From the XK120 and XK8, to Land Rover vehicles like the Discovery and Freelander from the 1990s; you own it, you love it, so bring it on by and your automotive needs will be attended to. Jaguar is thorough and professional to an exceedingly high level too. When your car is delivered to the Classic Works facility, it gets a comprehensive 121-point visual inspection. This generates a report detailing any work required and, as the work is carried out, it’s recorded in a Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works Service Book.
Oh, and here’s an interesting little add on: There’s a dedicated XJ220 servicing section operated by Jaguar supercar technicians, some of whom supported the XJ220 program during production 25 years ago. They use tailor-made service tools for the 212 mph supercar. This is good because the XJ220 has service requirements slightly more involved than an Aérospatiale/BAC Concorde.
Jaguar XJ220 servicing and maintenance bay. Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.

Added Touches
And if you think this is all about making old cars good as new, you’d be wrong. Sadly, gloriously, unforgettably wrong. On top of selling old cars, services, and parts, clients can encounter a selection of legendary Jaguar and Land Rover models through the Classic Drives portion of the new facility. Two of the locations offered include the MIRA test facility (where Jag hot shoe Norman Dewis crashed and barrel rolled the only Jaguar XJ13 in existence back in 1971) and Eastnor Castle, where many of the vehicles were developed.
There’s even a Jaguar Classic Challenge race series for pre-1966 Jaguar cars now underway. So, you know, if your mind “works” like mine, there’s another outlet for your Lotto winnings. This five-round series starts at Donington Park and includes races at Brands Hatch, the Silverstone Classic in July, Oulton Park, and the season finale at September’s Spa Six-Hours meeting in Belgium. And if you ball up your XKSS at Eau Rouge, well, that’s the way of it old chap. But not to worry! The boys back at the Coventry Works will see to your ride and make it right as rain. Safe as houses. Good as new. You lucky bloke.
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.
Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works Facility Gallery

Photos & Source: Jaguar Land Rover.

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2018 Honda Accord To Debut In Detroit

2018 Honda Accord To Debut In Detroit

The 2018 Honda Accord will make its global debut in Detroit, Michigan on July 14th, now less than a month away. The automaker released the above concept drawing which gives us some insight as to what the car will look like. Although we can only see a portion of the vehicle, Honda promises the new Accord will have an aggressive stance, dramatic styling, fuel efficient powertains, and sporty driving dynamics.
Top Gun
Honda has raked in the dough with the Accord to say the least. According Urban Science, the Accord is the best-selling midsize sedan in the United States among car buyers cumulatively since 2010. Furthermore, Urban Science data shows the Accord has been the U.S. midsize sedan segment’s retail sales leader for last four years. 2017 is shaping up strong for Honda too – during the first five months of the year, based on retail sales to individual buyers, the Accord is the top midsize sedan again, second only to the new Civic.
Power & Performance
To keep this benchmark intact, Honda promises the forthcoming Accord, now in its 10th generation, will be the most fun-to-drive Accord yet. Expect to see two new turbocharged engines paired with either a new Honda-developed 10-speed automatic, CVT, or 6-speed manual transmission. Hybrid buyers will want to pay close attention to the new iteration of Honda’s two-motor hybrid powertrain system.
Live Reveal
Honda will share all the vital details via a YouTube Livestream session in the Motor City on July 14th, 11:00am Eastern. Here is the link. If you can believe it, since its launch in 1976, more than 13 million Honda Accords have been sold. Production remains at Honda’s Marysville, Ohio plant, the home of the Accord since November 1982. Cumulative U.S. production now exceeds 11 million units across 35 years of American manufacturing. That said, we are pretty excited to see this new machine from Honda.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo & Source: Honda North America.

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2018 Hyundai Elantra Trim Levels Expand

2018 Hyundai Elantra Trim Levels Expand

Hyundai has gone and messed with its popular Elantra for 2018, or at least tweaked one of the available option packages. That could be trouble – monkeying with the Elantra, pretty much Hyundai’s bread and butter car, might spell disaster – but have no fear, Hyundai is on top of the situation.
Hyundai’s Elantra, now in its sixth generation, has racked up more than 2.9 million sales since its launch in America, and is aimed squarely at its midsize sedan competitors, the Chevrolet Cruise and Ford Focus.
More Stuff
The short version here is that Hyundai’s new trim level for the Elantra (SEL) will replace the soon-to-be-outgoing SE trim. The SEL will add more tech goodies without raising the price. Thus, the 2018 Hyundai Elantra SEL will come with blind spot detection with rear cross traffic alert and lane change assist. Infotainment is centered around a seven-inch display audio system with AM/FM/HD/Sirius radio pumping out the sounds via six speakers. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are in there too, of course.
There is a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines to help you back up and park and such.
The SEL trim also features 16-inch alloy wheels, four-wheel disc brakes, heated outside mirrors, and auto headlamp control. Oh, and since this is America, you also get better rear cup holders that are mounted just aft of the center console, so Junior doesn’t spill that Big Gulp Mountain Dew all over the place. The Elantra Limited and Sport trims get some new features as well.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Trim Level Treatments
The Limited trim now includes gloss black interior accents and an auto-dimming rearview mirror (which is just lazy) with Blue Link and HomeLink now standard. Hyundai also points out that all available Blue Link features come standard for three years. The Sport Elantras now come with a power sunroof, Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-traffic Alert, and Lane Change Assist standard to help you not do things like pull into oncoming traffic or run over cyclists while changing lanes. All trim levels, SEL, Limited, and Sport get a new machine gray exterior color, if you’re more into the subtle pallet.
The Value and Eco trim levels are still available. Value, is, well, the value-oriented model that comes well-equipped with popular options at “attractive” (read: inexpensive) price points. The Eco trim gets you an EPA estimated 35 miles per gallon combined thanks to a 1.4 turbo GDI four-cylinder engine and seven-speed DCT gearbox.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.

Blue Link Connectivity
Now, about that Hyundai Blue Link. It’s sort of like smart home technology grafted onto your car. It apparently requires some sort of subscription – which Hyundai does not go into details on, but they do mention you get three years of it for free – and it allows you to either automate a range of stuff you can have your car do, or allows you to do it remotely.
For example, one of the Blue Link features is the Connected Care Package which takes care of stuff like Automatic Collision Notification, SOS Emergency Assistance, a Monthly Vehicle Health Report (sort of a poor person’s telemetry data storage deal), Automatic Diagnostic Trouble Code Notification (i.e. it tells you more than just “check engine”), a Service Link Maintenance Reminder (a digital version of that oil change sticker normally on your windshield), something called Driving Information (your guess is as good as mine), and On-Demand Diagnostics (again, much more than just “check engine”).
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Extra Tools
Besides being there to get you out of a jam, there are other Blue Link features in the Remote Package that can be activated via things like Amazon Alexa. There is also a remote start, which must really be nice in a place like Chicago in January.
There is also Car Finder? Not sure what that does exactly, but I’m guessing some sort of parking lot/garage assistance thing-o for the memory impaired. Blue Link also gets you Stolen Vehicle Recovery, Stolen Vehicle Slowdown, and Stolen Vehicle Immobilization, which is handy, yes, but also probably fun when it comes to messing with perps. You just never know when your Elantra is going to get targeted by Memphis Raines.
So, yet again, Hyundai steps into the breach for those that want lots of up-to-date tech goodies but are on, shall we say, a more limited budget than your typical Mercedes-Benz buyer.
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 Hyundai Elantra Gallery

Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor America.

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