Automotive

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

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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2018 Kia Niro PHEV EX Premium Review

2018 Kia Niro PHEV EX Premium Review
If you haven’t heard of the Kia Niro, it’s a new subcompact wagon/hatchback with a hybrid gas-electric powertrain that was introduced last year. Kia says it’s a crossover, but since it isn’t offered with all-wheel drive, we’ll classify it in the hatch and wagon category. Either way, it’s a smart new entry with a lower stance than a typical crossover. It offers five-door utility and the vertical liftgate makes it feel like a wagon.
This week we drove the 2018 Kia Niro PHEV EX Premium.
What’s New For 2018
The new Niro Plug-in Hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) adds lane keeping assist, replacing the previous lane departure warning system. It’s included in the Advanced Technology package available on LX and EX trims, and it’s standard on the top Touring trim.
Features & Options
The 2018 Kia Niro PHEV EX trim ($34,500) comes standard with power-folding and heated side mirrors, leather upholstery, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear air conditioning vents, an additional USB charge port, and a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert.
The EX Premium trim adds a 10-way power driver’s seat, xenon headlights, a gloss black front grille with chrome trim, ventilated front seats, driver-seat memory function, and a heated steering wheel. There’s also an eight-inch touchscreen display, navigation, and an eight-speaker premium Harmon Kardon sound system. LED map lights, the front and rear parking system, wireless phone charging, and a 110-volt power outlet round out the list of add-ons.
Safety features include Kia’s Forward Collision Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Smart Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems. Total MSRP including destination: $35,575.

Interior Highlights
Stepping inside the cabin of the Niro EX Premium reveals an all-black interior with light colored stitching on the door panels, seats, and center console. The quality of the materials is good and most of the surfaces soft. There are no real clues to it being a hybrid inside, except for an Eco badge on the dash and the EV mode gauge showing battery usage.
This tester came with soft leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats for all-weather comfort. The front seats were comfortable and well bolstered for our more spirited driving this week. The back seats are canted backward offering plenty of room for taller adults making headroom generous.
The new Niro offers a fair amount of cargo space, but not as much as a Toyota Prius. It comes with 19.4 cubic feet with the rear seat up, and 54.5 cubic feet with the seats down. The rear hatch offers greater utility with a charging cord included, along with a handy storage compartment below the rear deck.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The new Kia Niro PHEV is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection, making 104 horsepower and 109 lb-ft. of torque. It’s coupled with an AC Synchronous Permanent Magnet Motor that creates another 60 horsepower and 125 lb-ft. of torque. Kia says total system output is 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft. of torque.
Both are mated to a Kia-built six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The electric motor acts as a generator, getting its energy from braking and deceleration, and charging a 8.9 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery. The Niro can run on electric power for 26 miles of all-electric driving range.
EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 105 MPGe combined (city/highway) mpg. Overall, the Niro PHEV offers an estimated 560 miles of total range with a 48/44/46 rating (city/highway/combined).

Driving Dynamics
The Kia Niro hybrid is one of the best we’ve tested, partly because it offers a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, rather than a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Once we got underway, the Niro hybrid felt like a typical gas-only vehicle, mainly because it doesn’t have the annoying characteristics of the CVTs usually found in hybrids like the Toyota Prius.
As we drove the Niro this week, it was fun to see how much electric battery power we could generate by using the regenerative braking technology. Because we tested the vehicle in the mountains west of Denver, we had plenty of steep declines to help get more battery power. The Eco EV mode gauge showed us when we were charging the battery and when it was draining. We never had to use the cord to recharge because we had recharged with our driving alone. We were able to drive all week commuting to Denver on just slightly more than 1/2 tank of gas.
The shift from all-electric to the gas engine is seamless and virtually unnoticeable. The only thing that allows you to tell it’s a hybrid is the slight whine of the brakes when it’s recharging the battery. For those wanting a sporty driving experience, the dual-clutch transmission can be manually shifted in Sport mode. It offers a more dynamic driving experience, but fuel mileage suffers. Eco mode is where we got the best mileage, but power is much less too. If you do need extra power, you just slide the gear shifter to the left for Sport, and the small hatchback comes alive, and easily keeps up with traffic on the freeway.
The Kia Niro offers a smooth and comfortable ride on the highway. It’s light with a low center of gravity largely giving it excellent handling. It stayed flat in the tight mountain curves for us.
Conclusion
The 2018 Kia Niro is a new hybrid that could change the way we view fuel-efficient technology. We think it’s better than the Toyota Prius with its six-speed transmission and superior handling and driving dynamics. You even get a Sport mode if you are a driving enthusiast.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
Kia Niro Gallery

2018 Kia Niro Official Site.
Photos: Kia Motors America (2017 and non-PHEV models also shown).

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Le Fil Rouge Concept: The Future Hyundai?

Le Fil Rouge Concept: The Future Hyundai? Hyundai recently unveiled the Le Fil Rouge (HDC-1) concept at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show. As the name implies, Le Fil Rouge (common thread) is Hyundai’s belief that past, present, and future designs are interconnected.
“Le Fil Rouge is a reinterpretation of Hyundai’s design DNA that originated from the brand’s historical Hyundai Coupe Concept in 1974,” explained Luc Donckerwolke, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai’s Design Center.
Four Points
Is this a new era for Hyundai and a preview of what their next cars will look like? It appears so. Hyundai calls this new design “Sensuous Sportiness,” which centers on four different but distinct traits: proportion, architecture, styling, and technology. Here is a brief look at what these four individual elements mean.
“Building on our long history of creating distinctive and sporty character in vehicles, we will open a new era for Hyundai design,” Donckerwolke said.
The Hyundai Le Fil Rouge concept at the 88th Geneva International Motor Show.
Proportion & Architecture
Proportion will be achieved through things like a longer wheel base, larger wheels, and shorter overhangs. The proportion aspect also involves how the driver will sit in the car and how the roofline impacts the vehicle’s appearance. In a similar way, the architecture component – or “Light Architecture” as Hyundai dubs it – will create a forward-motion look and feel.
“Tube Architecture” is the expansion of Light Architecture, only on the inside. The idea, according to Hyundai, is to create an emotional response inside the vehicle that matches the exterior. Tube Architecture also accounts for the interior’s overall ergonomics while prioritizing a lightweight design to increase performance.
Photo: Hyundai Motor Company.
Styling & Technology
Although styling seems to be the biggest element, what Hyundai really wants is for their cars to be recognized from a distance; and this new design language incorporates the artistic elements necessary to make that happen. The technology part seems self explanatory, but with regard to where Hyundai wants to go, it shows up in little, unexpected ways.
“Our goal is to build a beloved brand by creating vehicles with heightened emotional value to reshape the landscape of car design,” said Sang-yup Lee, Vice President and Head of Hyundai Styling.”
Tech for Hyundai means more than just intuitive controls and panoramic floating displays, but also re-vitalized wood and special fabrics that create emotion when a driver sits down. The Sensuous Sportiness theme will expand to all Hyundai vehicles, from sedans to SUVs. The ultimate goal is to bring new levels of beauty, charisma, and desirability to the product lineup.
“This is the foundation of our concept,” Lee added.
In Person
The Hyundai Le Fil Rouge concept is on display at the Geneva International Motor Show until the 18th.
Hyundai Le Fil Rouge Concept Gallery

Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor Company.

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McLaren ‘Hyper-GT’: Fastest McLaren Ever Fires The Cannon

McLaren ‘Hyper-GT’: Fastest McLaren Ever Fires The Cannon You know when you’re in a bar on the wrong side of town, then all of a sudden there’s the sound of breaking glass and roaring silence and a deep, harsh voice says, “Okay then. Let’s take it outside.” Well that is, in essence, what McLaren just said to every other car maker on the planet, but they were looking right at Bugatti when they said it.
Hyper Tension
McLaren just fired this huge warning shot at the Geneva International Motor Show. They call it the ‘Hyper-GT,’ which is a stupid, stupid name, but it’s only a place holder, so don’t worry. The main thing they said was the ‘Hyper-GT’ will be capable of exceeding 243 mph. Yes, for those of you keeping track at home, that’s the max velocity of the iconic McLaren F1. Yes, in a way, this will be the “replacement” for the F1. In a way. And also “exceeding 243 mph” means it is going to be pretty close to what Bugattis and Koenigseggs are capable of doing. In other words, the top speed wars are on.
The ‘Hyper-GT’ is the next model in the Ultimate Series and follows the aerodynamically pure, yet aesthetically revolting McLaren Senna. The ‘Hyper-GT’ will feature a three-seat cockpit design and centrally-mounted driving position just like in the F1 (or the Ferrari Guida Centrale, if you want to go way back).
Photo: McLaren Automotive.
All In One
Baring the internal code name BP23, the ‘Hyper-GT’ aims to be both the fastest-ever and the most luxurious McLaren yet. The idea is that the McLaren BP23 would deliver an unparalleled blend of extreme performance with its petrol-electric hybrid powertrain and sporting luxury, and, at the end of the day, still be the ultimate road-going McLaren. And no, this is not just a rumor, this is straight from the lips of McLaren Automotive CEO Mike Flewitt during the Geneva Motor Show press conference. So consider it as official as it can get.
Limited Commodity
McLaren will only make 106 examples of the BP23. Astute readers will note that 106 is the same number of F1s made by McLaren, so they are really leveraging their past history with this upcoming car of theirs. McLaren also notes that all the ‘Hyper-GTs’ are already sold and will run £1.6 million plus taxes to buy. Kind of cryptic, that. Basically means they cost a lot but they’ve already sold anyway.
Production & In Person
Production is due to begin at the end of 2019, with every BP23 out of the factory personalized to each owner’s taste by McLaren Special Operations, or MSO, the in-house skunk works division responsible for bespoke customer commissions. The real name of the McLaren ‘Hyper-GT’, together with the maximum speed attainable, will be disclosed nearer to the car’s reveal. The ‘Hyper-GT’ will be shown to the public before the end of the year, with a private preview for its depositors ahead of that. That’s a nice way of saying the filthy rich will get a look at it before us yobs do.
There’s a reading of the tea leaves that can be done here, but to me, it seems rather simple: McLaren, former holder of the world’s fastest and coolest car crown, just got tired of hearing about Bugatti all the time.
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.
Photos & Source: McLaren Automotive.

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Automoblog Book Garage: Lamborghini Supercars 50 Years

One of the most inspiring things about Lamborghini Supercars 50 Years is what appears at the beginning. Usually, I skip over the introductory pages of books; I want to get to the “good stuff” and absorb the knowledge within. In my haste, I usually miss things like what struck me when I first opened this book.

Three pages in, among the Library of Congress Cataloging information, ISBN number, and publishing credits is a quote from the book’s photographer, James Mann.

In memory of my father, David Mann, who game me my love of cars.

You absolutely must love cars in order to truly appreciate a Lamborghini. Conversely, if you love a Lamborghini, you probably both appreciate and admire the limits an automobile can push.

Pages 136 and 137 are consumed by this beautiful Gallardo LP560-4. A few pages prior, a table chart shows the chassis, engine, and suspension specs. “This was a high-stakes game,” writes Codling. “When Audi collected the keys of the Sant’Agata factory in July 1998, its senior management knew that all eyes would be on the successor to Lamborghini’s marquee car, the Diablo.” Photo: James Mann.

Endless Passion

Author Stuart Codling goes for the grip a few pages later and never lets go. We meet Ferruccio Lamborghini, see his love for machines, feel his pain when he returns from World War II, and sense his fire during clashes with Ferrari.

Beginning with the Miura in 1965, arguably ahead of its time, and closing with one of our personal favorites today, the Huracán, Lamborghini Supercars 50 Years follows a young man who loved machines and what that love could ultimately create. We see other vital namesakes through the years too: Countach, Diablo, Aventador, and Sesto Elemento. The book covers the acquisition of Lamborghini by Audi and how German influence wielded the likes of the Murciélago in 2001, the Gallardo in 2003, the Reventón in 2008, and the Aventador in 2011.

Like Mann’s father, the love of cars draw us to Lamborghini. And for Lamborghini himself, it was a love for all machines. When you think about it, that’s an endless cycle, but one I want to be stuck in.

Lamborghini Supercars 50 Years: From the Groundbreaking Miura to Today’s Hypercars is available through Amazon and Motorbooks.

Photography

Mann is one of the world’s leading car and motorcycle photographers, with more than 20 years of experience shooting for enthusiast publications, the motor industry, and businesses around the world. His work has appeared within and on the covers of more than 50 books. Mann also photographed the British Auto Legends stamps for the Royal Mail.

Author

Codling has worked in motorsports for over a decade as a journalist and broadcaster, covering sports cars in the United States before joining F1 Racing, the world’s best-selling Formula 1 magazine. He has appeared as an F1 expert on TV and radio, has hosted for Renault F1, and contributes to both Autosport and Autocar.

He was once sworn at by ex-Ferrari F1 driver Eddie Irvine.

Lamborghini Supercars 50 Years Gallery

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Chevrolet Owners Record Massive Data Usage In 2016

A top attribute of any vehicle today is connectivity. The ability for our automobile to seamlessly integrate our smartphones in the name of infotainment is becoming the order of the day. Sometimes, and especially for old school car enthusiasts, the connectivity bug may be nothing more than an annoying buzz, but Chevrolet owners tell a different story.

Bowtie customers in the United States used a hulking 4,220,684 gigabytes (or 4,220 terabytes) of data in 2016, marking a nearly 200 percent increase from 2015.

Practical Perspective

Chevrolet has strategically placed and enthusiastically promoted their in-vehicle connectivity, which may explain the jump in data consumption. One of the strongest selling points for us on the new Silverado is the how the truck acts as a mobile hotspot. The OnStar 4G LTE Silverado can connect up to seven devices, ideal for the Jawbone speaker you want to take to the camp ground, but handy for the laptop you need on the job site.

“We are attracting new buyers to Chevrolet by offering technologies like OnStar 4G LTE not available on competitive models,” said Alan Batey, President of GM North America and Global Head of Chevrolet. “New owners are in turn more likely to become repeat Chevrolet customers as these features become an integral part of their day-to-day lives.”

Chevy owners utilize the OnStar 4G LTE for a variety of activities, from streaming videos and playing games, to sending e-mails and listening to music.

“As a strategic plan to grow retail sales, Chevrolet has continually invested in new safety, convenience, and connected technologies across our trucks, utilities, and cars,” Batey said.

2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 High Country. Photo: Chevrolet.

Big Numbers

The most significant increases were with Tahoe and Suburban owners, who used three-and-a-half times more data than a year ago. The figures here may not be surprising, especially as Tahoe and Suburban are the best-selling full-size SUVs today. In 2016 alone, retail sales climbed 21 percent and retail share climbed 2 percentage points, meaning 49.3 percent of the segment now belongs to General Motors. Essentially, Tahoe and Suburban accounted for nearly one out of two full-size SUVs sold in 2016.

No other automaker has a higher retail share for any segment, SUV or otherwise, in the U.S.

Bigger Numbers

Tahoe and Suburban owners consumed 713,669 gigabytes of data in 2016, a 260 percent increase over 2015. That’s equivalent to approximately 3 million hours of streaming standard video, 25 million hours of streaming music, and 1.8 billion song, game, or app downloads.

It’s also the equivalent of 1.5 billion photos posted to social media. Hope you are happy with that selfie you took?

OnStar 4G LTE connectivity was introduced across the Chevrolet lineup in 2015 for the U.S. and Canada. Today, a 4G LTE connection is standard on every new Chevy vehicle, along with the OnStar Basic Plan, which features remote vehicle access and the AtYourService marketplace via the myChevrolet app.

Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

Photos & Source: Chevrolet

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2018 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon: Hauling More Than Your Family

Mercedes says their new AMG E63 S Wagon is sportiness meets space and intelligence. Sure, fine. Spin it however you want. All I know is that when I saw this beast puts out over 600 horsepower, all I could think of was, “gas pedal, meet my right foot.”

Station wagons in America are a forgotten segment of the automotive world. Through the 60s and 70s, you had a family, you had a wagon. How else were you supposed to take your wife, 2.3 kids, and all your stuff on a two week driving vacation?

Suburban Stereotypes

But then Lee Iacocca came up with the minivan. And, let’s face it, from a perspective of pure utility, a minivan is the answer. But then, minivans became the symbol of middle class suburban conformity, and potential buyers became nervous about even being near them, let alone driving one.

American SUVs to the rescue! Now you could have the utility of a minivan, with the added style that shows you are a rugged, prepared for anything Man with a capital “M” baby! The fact this demand to show ruggedness and preparedness was largely driven by a subconscious need to counteract deep seated fears of inadequacy rather than any real vehicular need was beside the point.

Who cares if you were never going to drive the thing up 13 miles of bad logging road in the middle of a rainstorm? You might! And that was the whole point.

Twin-scroll turbochargers were utilized for the first time to enhance the overall performance the AMG 4.0-liter V8 engine. They reduce exhaust gas backpressure and optimize the gas cycle, resulting in higher output and increased torque at low revs. Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.

Comeback Stories

Pity the poor station wagon. Forgotten to the dust heap of history.

At least in America, but not in Europe. You go to Europe, and you see a lot of wagons. A lot of them. And let’s face it, if you’re a dad from, oh, Frankfurt with a Geschwindigkeit but a burgeoning family, you won’t take any old people hauler off of the rack.

Oh my no. You’re going to take one that can haul buns down the bahn like a Panzerfaust. And if that’s your bent, then let me introduce you to the Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon. And even better, if you’re an American with that sort of bent, then you’ll be overjoyed to learn that Mercedes-Benz is bringing this brute of a ride to our shores.

The new AMG E63 S Wagon combines the Mercedes-AMG art of performance-inspired driving dynamics with modern utility. The wagon is propelled by a hand-crafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, cranking out 603 horsepower (5,750–6,500 rpm) and a stump pulling 627 lb-ft. of torque (2,500–4,500 rpm).

I’ll let those figures percolate for a bit while you consider coming across some knot-head in a brand new Mustang. He with his trollop-of-the-moment beside him, and you with your wife and kids. Traffic light goes green and you blow his butt so far into the weeds you don’t stop smiling for the next 7 miles.

The E63 S Wagon comes with an electronically controlled rear limited slip differential for improved traction. The electronically-controlled limited slip differential reduces slip on the inside wheel when cornering without braking intervention, resulting in the ability to accelerate out of turns earlier and more gracefully. Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.

Class Records

All this moron humiliating power and torque is put to the tarmac via a fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. An electromechanically controlled coupling connects the permanently driven rear axle variably to the front axle. Since the best possible torque distribution is calculated continuously, the wagon can transition from all-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive, yet still provide a sound and solid feel for the occupants.

The fact Mercedes-AMG have finally started putting their 4MATIC system into performance cars is a wonderful thing. It puts to rest one of the main arguments, usually hurled by Audi owners, that although the AMG cars are nice, they were only offered in rear drive. Also, if you live in someplace with less than stellar weather, you can now be a lot more happy and secure Mercedes-Benz owner.

All this powertrain tech is enough to hurtle the wagon from 0 to 60 in 3.4 seconds. Mercedes-Benz says the vehicle “sets a new record in this class.” It will be very interesting to see if Audi or BMW can top it. Speaking of top, the AMG family hauler tops out at an electronically limited speed of 180 mph.

“Dad? Are we there yet?” “Yes!”

The large-sized high-performance compound braking system is quick and fade-resistant, even under high loads. The E63 S Wagon is fitted with internally ventilated and perforated 15.4″ x 1.4″ compound brake discs on the front axle with six-piston fixed callipers. At the rear are 14.2″ x .9″ discs and single-piston floating brake callipers. An AMG Ceramic Composite braking system is also available. Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.

Hallmarks & Heavy Right Feet

The new wagon features an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT (Multi Clutch Technology) 9-speed sport transmission mated to a wet clutch. This means smoother power application and less grabbiness than a dry plate scavenger clutch.

“The new AMG E63 Wagon combines our brand’s hallmark driving dynamics with high everyday practicality. It is not for nothing that the model has been a permanent fixture in the AMG portfolio for 40 years,” said Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “The powerful engine and the intelligent all-wheel drive underpin our claim to always be at the forefront of development when it comes to performance.”

And we at Automoblog are not going to argue with him. We might not all have growing families, but we all have heavy right feet.

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 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon Gallery

Photos & Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

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