Automotive

Jaguar XE SV Project 8: Look Out Everyone! (Especially Germans)

Jaguar XE SV Project 8: Look Out Everyone! (Especially Germans) Alright all you Bahn-burners, Merc pilots, Beemer drivers, and Audi flyers, Jaguar is here to say, “Not so fast, chaps!” The Jaguar XE SV Project 8 aims to be the veddy British, veddy quick answer to “Who builds the world’s fastest sedan?” And with a 200 mph top speed and a Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time in the low 7:20s, you Germans best listen up.
Jaguar Special Vehicle Operations is putting the finishing touches on the soon-to-be-released XE SV Project 8, “the fastest and most thrilling of all road-legal four-door sedans.” Let’s just take that as a factual statement for now, and leave the fuming and raging you can hear emanating from Germany as distant thunder to be dealt with later.
Bolder & Badder
The Project 8 is a big, four-door sedan with a zero to 60 time of just 3.4 seconds. That’s impressive, given how large and heavy these cats are. They weigh just under 3,900 lbs. (after going on a significant diet) and are over 15 feet long. No one is going to mistake this for a Lotus, but that made little difference to the stopwatch when the Jaguar XE SV Project 8 sedan set a lap time of 7 minutes 21.23 seconds at the Nordschleife, quicker than the old four-door record by more than 10 seconds.
Overcoming all that heft and size is a 592 horsepower version of the “normal” supercharged Jaguar 5.0-liter V8, making the XE SV Project 8 the most powerful Jaguar road car to date. That big powerplant lives in a car peppered with genuine motor racing technology, a flat underbody, a differential oil cooler, and an all-wheel drive system that puts the power to the lane. The ride height, camber, front splitter, and rear wing are all adjustable. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 road-legal track tires wrap the forged 20-inch wheels with ceramic wheel bearings similar to those in grand prix cars. Impressive.
Jaguar’s Project 8 introduces an Electronic Active Differential (EAD) for the first time on the XE, which works with the Intelligent Driveline Dynamics system to precisely manage torque delivery to each of the rear wheels. In conjunction with enhanced front and rear driveshafts, the EAD is designed to distribute power and traction in varying situations. Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.
Building The Beast
The high-tech racing stuff doesn’t stop there. There are two-part upper wishbones, ball joints in place of rubber bushings, twin coil springs, special dampers and lower suspension bushings, a rollover protection system, and the latest spec carbon ceramic brakes: all new and all bespoke to the XE SV Project 8. The only body components used from the standard XE are the aluminum roof and aluminum front door skins. The vented hood, flared front fenders, and bumpers are made from carbon fiber. Driver feel is up, according to Jaguar, and the handling response is sharper.
“Power delivery and gear shifts are the most visceral we have ever offered on a Jaguar – every 1/100th of a second improvement in shift time adds up over a complete lap of the Nürburgring,” said Mark Stanton, Special Vehicle Operations Director. “Rest assured, no stone has been left unturned in our mission to make this the most rewarding Jaguar driver’s car ever.”
With no more than 300 being made, each one will be hand-built at the company’s Technical Center in Coventry.
“The good thing about building only 300 cars, all hand-made, is that you can keep developing the car right up to the start of production,” said David Pook, Project 8 Vehicle Dynamics Manager. “And we’ve done just that. The springs have got stiffer and so have the engine mounts. The suspension arm bushes have changed. The brakes have been refined for the exact pedal feel and performance we want. This has all been done to make the car even more responsive and to handle even better.”
The Jaguar XE SV Project 8 utilizes torque vectoring control via the braking system to minimize understeer by independently braking inside wheels during cornering. It works with the Electronic Active Differential to control torque delivery to the rear wheels. Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.
Pricing & Availability
Two versions of the Project 8 are available globally. The four-seat version coming to North America contains all the motorsport tech, but outside the U.S., there is a two-seat Track Pack version that drops almost 27 lbs. and includes carbon fiber racing seats, a four-point safety harnesses, and a boost in torsional rigidity by 27 percent. But like I said, that is not to be our version over here in the states. More’s the pity.
The XE SV Project 8 is priced from $187,500. No, that’s not cheap, but most likely worth it. Deliveries begin this summer. Get your finances in order and get in line now.
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. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
Photos & Source: Jaguar Land Rover.

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2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback: Marketing Jargon For Days

2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback: Marketing Jargon For Days Wait, what year is this, 1985? Toyota is trumpeting their new hatchback? People still make hatchbacks as separate and notable things? I thought having a hatch out back is just what a car company does these days, what makes this 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback special?
So, yeah, “the Hatch is back!” as Toyota claimed in a far too smarmy and familiar tone that, along with hideously contorted marketing prose, permeates their press materials.
Waxing Poetics
Toyota, in print anyway, is trying as hard as that third rate high school Romeo to convince you to go to prom with him. And there’s something about trying too hard that just seems to make it all the worse. Just check out this one single paragraph:
“Corolla Hatchback has flair extraordinaire. With a theme of Shooting Robust, along with a design goal of Agile, influencing their every pen stroke, designers created a form that is simultaneously distinct, dynamic, muscular, and sophisticated. Shooting references the design’s sport coupe traits implemented in all facets.”
Flair extraordinaire, Shooting Robust, design goal of Agile. Great job guys, you’ve now actively made me not want to buy your product. The only thing the marketing geeks have going for them is the complete and total lack of exclamation points. A minor blessing, all in all.
2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Enhanced Stance
In a lot of ways, the 2019 Corolla Hatchback is pretty much all that its name implies. It’s small, flexible, and a Corolla. Ergo, it’s going to be solid, dependable, easy-to-use transportation, and all the extra marzipan slathered on top just hides more of the cake underneath. The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is built on the company’s TNGA C platform, described as a compact structure that utilizes adhesives, spot welding, and additional bracing – top to bottom and side to side – for better stability and fuel economy.
The Corolla Hatchback is lower (by 0.4 inches), wider (by 0.6 inches), and shorter (by 0.6 inches) than its predecessor, the Corolla iM. That all adds up to better grip and handling, smother ride, and more room inside. The hatch itself is made from this stuff called TSOP and ABS plastic. TSOP, in case you’re interested, is not a reference to the disco song, The Sound of Philadelphia, but instead means Toyota Super Olefin Polymer, which is a new, lightweight substance. Put it on a sports car, and we can talk more Toyota.
Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Exterior & Interior Treatments
The little Corolla Hatch comes in two flavors, SE and XSE. Either version gets you LED headlamps and taillights, a chrome rear diffuser, and alloy wheels. The XSE’s wheels are 18-inchers while other goodies include LED fog lights, a chrome front grille surround, and an Adaptive Front Lighting System. Your color choices are Blizzard Pearl, Silver Metallic, Midnight Black, Galactic Aqua Mica, Scarlet, Oxide Bronze, and the new-for-2019 color Blue Flame.
The interior is all about “Sensuous Minimalism.” No, seriously, that’s what they said. There’s a standard eight-inch multimedia touchscreen for vehicle settings, audio controls, navigation, smartphone integration, and the Entune 3.0 apps. The center tray ahead of the gearshift holds small items and has a wireless device charging area. Front door cup holders accommodate 24-ounce bottles and the rear door cup holders accommodate 16-ounce bottles, because America.
The XSE ups the ante with dual-zone climate control, leather seating, and heated front seats (yay!). A seven-inch TFT Multi-Information Display shows vehicle info, turn-by-turn navigation, and various vehicle settings like Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Monitor and that sort of junk.
Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Power & Performance
All of this is propelled a 2.0-liter Dynamic-Force (laugh!) inline four-cylinder plant with direct injection. The engine is smaller and lighter than the 1.8-liter four-cylinder it replaces, and puts out 168 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque. The chassis seems to be all parts bin sourced and bean counter approved with a front MacPherson strut setup and a multi-link suspension with stabilizer bars out back.
Here is how Toyota describes it in their press materials:
The end result: A Corolla Hatchback that possesses an uncanny blend of balance, composure, and feel that’ll have its driver pining for windy roads – time and time again.
Really? Who cares?! Just listen to that media hype. Tell people you “drive a hatchback.” Toyota thinks that’s what all the cool kids will be interested in anyway. The chassis and powerplant engineers at Ferrari certainly won’t be upset or worried by what the cool kids are doing.
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. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
Photos & Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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Magna & Innoviz Technologies To Supply BMW Group With LiDAR

Magna & Innoviz Technologies To Supply BMW Group With LiDAR Magna and Innoviz Technologies will supply BMW Group with solid-state LiDAR solutions as the automaker moves toward autonomous vehicle production. LiDAR, because of its range and accuracy, is considered an essential element for autonomous cars. The venture is among the first of its kind, moving solid-state LiDAR technology away from something seen only on prototype and concept vehicles to full production cars.
Comprehensive Solutions
Magna officials say they reamin committed to flexible, scalable solutions that turn advancements like LiDAR into automotive-grade products. Magna, a global automotive supplier with a presence in 28 countries, has the ability to create a completely autonomous platform, or provide individual building blocks of the overall system, as is the case with BMW. Magna worked with Innoviz Technologies to deliver a viable solution for BMW’s future autonomous vehicles.
“We value the opportunity to support a premier brand such as BMW with our innovative technologies in sensors and systems,” explained Kelei Shen, President of Magna Electronics. “Our strong systems and integration knowledge and complete vehicle expertise give us the ability to provide scalable solutions for different levels of autonomy.”
“BMW is setting a high standard in autonomous vehicle development, and their vote of confidence in our LiDAR demonstrates how advanced our technology is,” added Omer Keilaf, co-founder and CEO of Innoviz. “The Innoviz and Magna teams collaborated to meet BMW requirements in quality and validation and functional safety.”
Innoviz Technologies has a production site in Haifa, Israel with the ability to produce a few thousand devices per month; officials say they are planning a second facility in China and want to open it next year. Photo: Magna & Innoviz Technologies.
Invaluable Experiences
Innoviz has unique origins, being founded by former members of the elite technological unit of the Israeli Defense Forces. The company’s leaders and employees are experts in electro-optics, computer vision, MEMS design, and signal processing among other disciplines. In the military, Keilaf’s team was tasked with complex projects and tight deadlines, working around the clock to implement new technologies in service to their country.
“I come from a small unit but we were developing very unique hardware and technology – it’s like if MIT had an army,” he told us in a September 2017 feature. “You had to manage sometimes hundreds of people working on a certain project, and all of them needed to see something at the end that works perfectly.”
The experiences in the military inevitably shaped Innoviz and their success as a company. Today, they are backed by strategic partners and top-tier investors like Aptiv (Delphi), Magna International, Samsung Catalyst, SoftBank Ventures Korea, 360 Capital Partners, Glory Ventures, and Naver. The company’s LiDAR technology will benefit future BMW owners by functioning in the most challenging environments, like bright and direct sunlight or varying and unpredictable weather conditions.
“Automakers have been looking for a LiDAR technology provider to deliver a mass-market solution, and we are proud to see our product coming to series production,” Keilaf said.
Innoviz Technologies demonstrating their LiDAR solution at AutoSens Detroit, May 2017. Photo: Carl Anthony for Automoblog.net.
Diverse Portfolio
Magna has been developing and manufacturing advanced driver assistance systems for automakers for nearly two decades. In August the company unveiled MAX4, a fully integrated and scalable platform that can enable up to Level 4 autonomous driving in both urban and highway environments. MAX4 contains radar, LiDAR, cameras, ultrasonic sensors, and an ADAS central computing module which can be supplied in part or as a whole system.
The company specializes in body exteriors, seating systems, and power and vision technologies among others. Magna’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (MG) and the New York Stock Exchange (MGA).
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: Magna, Innoviz Technologies.

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Bentley Bentayga Hybrid: When Eco Goes Posh

Bentley Bentayga Hybrid: When Eco Goes Posh This Bentley Bentayga is the automaker’s first true plug-in hybrid.
A special “E Motor” is the heart of the new Bentayga’s powertrain.
Set to arrive in the United States during the first quarter of 2020.
Bentley has taken its five-seater Bentayga SUV and made a hybrid version. Sure, that might seen counterproductive, given the size (enormous) and weight (also enormous), but it makes sense in a bunch of ways. I know, how could a ride like the 2020 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid make sense? Well, first off, in addition to the fact that caring about the environment just makes sense, it’s also very fashionable these days. And lets face facts: you’re not going to buy a Bentayga to haul 500 lbs. of manure down t’the farm, now are ya?
No. No you are not.
Bentley Bentayga Hybrid: Perception Is Reality
Bentley Bentaygas are all about style and comfort and the perception of capability, if not outright capability. A Bentayga is all about looking good and feeling good as you pull up to the club or your Pilates class or your stock broker’s office. And since looking good and feeling good now encompasses caring for the environment, having a Bentayga Hybrid just makes sense.
Bentley’s catchphrase for the Bentayga Hybrid is “Serenity Through Technology” and I bet Buddha, wherever he is, had to chuckle at that one. The lack of a standard Swarovski-encrusted tissue dispenser will probably damage the serenity of some customers, but probably not many. Because other than that, it lacks for precious little. Like the Continental GT, the Bentayga Hybrid is going for that ultimate grand tourer look and feel.
E Motor Design
Propulsion comes via Bentley’s new E Motor, which acts as both an electric motor and a power generator. The whole deal is hooked up to a new 3.0-liter turbo V6. The combined system creates a hefty 516 lb-ft. of torque. That electric motor is a Permanent Magnet Synchronous system putting out 94 kW of peak power, and 295 lb-ft. of torque on its own.
Bentley says everything is meant to provide instant torque and eliminate turbo lag. It’s hard to argue with them. Add it all up and you have a zero to 60 time of 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 158 mph. If you want to go faster my friend, then you will need this particular Bentley Bentayga.
Bentley Bentayga Hybrid. By 2023, Bentley expects to have an electrified version of everything they offer. Photo: Bentley Motors.
Drive Modes & Total Range
The Bentayga Hybrid has three drive modes with EV Drive being a battery-only deal. In Hybrid mode, the Bentayga uses info from the nav system to optimize battery power and the engine for maximum efficiency and range. In Hold mode, engine and electric power is more balanced but in a way in which the electric range can be used later. For example, say you are driving at higher speeds on the highway then arrive back in the city where you can use battery power again. Bentley says Hold mode is meant for situations like that.
Regardless of mode, regenerative braking is always taking place.
Total driving range is 464 miles with an all-electric range of 31.7 miles. Not all that much, but you will be able to get a few errands done using just electricity. Other than that, however, it’s the same sure-footed, all-wheel drive setup you’d find in a regular Bentayga. The high-voltage battery pack recharges in 2.5 hours, which is less time than you need to play all 18 holes.
Bentley Bentayga Hybrid interior layout. Photo: Bentley Motors.
Bentley Bentayga Hybrid: Pricing & Availability
The handcrafted Bentayga Hybrid takes 130 hours to build back in Crewe, England, which lends credence to Bentley’s claim it’s the world’s most luxurious SUV. That also makes sense when you realize it will cost you $160,000 to own. If this sounds like your cup of tea, Bentley is taking orders with deliveries expected in the first quarter of 2020.
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.
Bentley Bentayga Hybrid Gallery

Photos & Source: Bentley Motors.

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2017 Honda CR-V 1.5T AWD Touring Review

2017 Honda CR-V 1.5T AWD Touring Review

For years, the Honda CR-V has been one of those vehicles that just blended in with all the other small crossovers on the road. Gone are those days forever, now that the 2017 CR-V has arrived. Honda has fully-redesigned the popular model and it gets more comfortable, more fuel-stingy, and more versatile. The exterior has also been completely restyled and is now more attractive and modern looking.
This week, we drove the top-trim, 2017 Honda CR-V AWD Touring model.
What’s New For 2017
The Honda CR-V is completely redesigned for 2017. The outside gets a much needed styling udpate, it gets a longer and wider wheelbase, and the addition of an optional, 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that should improve fuel economy and acceleration. We checked both of those out this week.
Features & Options
The CR-V AWD Touring comes standard with LED daytime running lights, a rearview camera, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 60/40-split folding and reclining rear seat, Bluetooth connectivity, and Pandora internet radio compatibility. Touring models get bigger 18-inch alloy wheels, a turbocharged engine, heated side mirrors, automatic headlights (and high beams), a sunroof, foglights, a retractable cargo cover, keyless entry and ignition, remote start, an eight-way power driver’s seat (with four-way power lumbar adjustment), heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
It also comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen with HondaLink smartphone app integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), satellite radio, and an extra USB port. Safety features include adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot monitoring system, a forward collision warning and mitigation system with automatic braking, and a lane departure warning and intervention system.
Even more luxury items include a hands-free height-adjustable power liftgate, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery, HD radio, LED headlights, automatic windshield wipers, ambient interior LED lighting, a navigation system, and an upgraded sound system with nine speakers.
Honda did not have pricing yet on this CR-V pre-production model.

Interior Highlights
The cabin in the 2017 CR-V is updated with new materials which look classy for the segment. The interior gets a bit bigger with the wider and longer wheelbase, allowing even more room for passengers in the front and back. Up front, the gearshift gets moved further forward and higher on the center console, allowing for abundant storage areas. There’s multiple handy trays and storage bins for families to easily hide all their stuff, keeping the front uncluttered. We also liked the top-of-the line Touring model inside with its wood-grain trim, and the leather-wrapped steering wheel, gear shift knob, and seats.
Drivers will definitely appreciate the added adjustability that comes with the 12-way power driver’s seat. We could easily find the perfect driving position for superior visibility. We especially liked the re-introduction of a volume knob for the audio system on the CR-V’s center console. It’s one of the things Honda listened to as there were many complaints about the touchscreen volume controls on previous CR-Vs. It makes it much easier now to crank up the tunes.
Out back, there’s even more room for rear passengers. Our riders this week commented on the ample leg and headroom as we traveled for a lunch meeting. Behind the rear seat, the CR-V offers up one of the most user-friendly cargo areas in the small SUV segment with 39.2 cubic feet of cargo-carrying ability. There’s also a deep cargo area and lower load floor making it easier to load bigger cargo items. The Touring’s power lift gate comes with a handy hands-free option and a height-adjustment feature.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2017 Honda CR-V gets a new 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft. of of torque. It comes mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and our Touring tester came with optional all-wheel drive.
EPA fuel mileage estimates are 27/33 city/highway and 29 combined mpg. We averaged 28.2 mpg for the week which was at altitude, plus we pushed the crossover hard.
Driving Dynamics
This Touring model came fitted with the new turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. When we first looked at the size and horsepower, at least on paper, it didn’t seem like an upgrade with more power. It seems undersized for the vehicle, but the turbocharger totally changes the dynamics of this engine. We pushed the new CR-V hard all week at altitude in the mountains west of Denver, and the 1.5-liter mill never lacked for power.
We drove it up I-70 into the mountains and we had all the power we needed to stay in the fast lane and pass slower traffic. In the city, the CR-V handles like a champ as we were able to scoot in and out of traffic. The ride is smooth and composed, even over rough pavement. The cabin is quieter than the previous model; we were able to crank up the premium sound system and enjoy the ride.
The CR-V is a great city commuter that’s the perfect size for a new or smaller family. It’s roomy enough inside and never left us feeling tired at the end of the day. Visibility is good and the tilt-telescoping steering wheel along with the 12-way power driver’s seat is extra convenient on long trips. The only complaint is that the parking brake sets itself when you shut off the engine. When you get back in, you have to release the brake or you don’t go anywhere.
Conclusion
Overall, the newly-redesigned 2017 Honda CR-V is good-looking and comfortable. The new fuel-efficient 1.5-liter turbo engine has plenty of power for most driving situations. The all-wheel drive makes it an all-weather cable crossover with plenty of utility. For more information on the new CR-V, look through our detailed Product and Performance Overview here.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Honda CR-V Gallery

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2017 Honda CR-V Official Site
Photos: Honda North America

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2018 Hyundai Sonata: Product & Performance Overview

2018 Hyundai Sonata: Product & Performance Overview

The 2018 Hyundai Sonata arrives with new styling, enhanced safety features, and upgraded steering and suspension components. Hyundai unveiled the vehicle recently at the New York International Auto Show, underscoring their desire for a “bold, daring, and beautiful” automobile.
“It’s all about making an impact,” said Chris Chapman, Chief Designer, Hyundai North American Design. “The moment the pen left the drafting paper, I knew we had something special in this re-imagined Sonata.”
Styling & Design
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata was designed at Hyundai’s California Design Studio with American flare in mind. Designers focused on a more decisive stance, characterized primarily by the “cascading grille” and new rear profile. The 2018 Sonata has LED daytime running lights and available LED headlamps with a bending feature to help illuminate the road.
The center stack and instrument panel were designed with the exterior for a consistent theme throughout. The dials, three-spoke steering wheel, and piano key buttons for the audio and HVAC controls are just several examples of where Hyundai went for a premium look and feel.
“Dynamic lines, strong graphics, and our new signature cascading grille come together in an athletic way,” Chapman said.
Power & Performance
At the top of the range, the 2018 Sonata is motivated by a 2.0-liter turbo engine producing 245 horsepower. The eight-speed automatic was designed with well balanced ratios, meaning drivers will find an optimum blend between performance and efficiency. The transmission provides strong off-the-line acceleration and fuel efficient highway cruising. The 2.0-liter turbo models have 18-inch wheels and Michelin tires.
Hyundai’s engineers zeroed in on ride and handling specifically, improving the 2018 Sonata’s overall responsiveness. The steering system went through a total revision and various components, like the torsion bar, were beefed up to improve the handling in all conditions. The rear suspension received similar treatment with trailing arms now 21 percent thicker. The additional stiffness helps manage suspension loads, while new bushings work within the suspension arms for more nimble handling.
What’s interesting is Hyundai’s feedback from customers in this area was already quite high, but the automaker wanted to made a good thing better.
“We wanted to deliver an exciting, expressive car to our customers and show the world how passionate Hyundai is about design and craftsmanship,” Chapman said.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Safety & Security
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata has seven standard airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag. The vehicle has an available Lane Departure Warning system with an enhanced Lane Keep Assist function; Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert provides additional safety when maneuvering in reverse.
Connectivity & Availability
Driver’s will stay connected through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. A Qi wireless charging pad accompanies a second row USB charge port. The available navigation system now comes with a bird’s eye view feature, plus traffic flow and incident data – both are available without a subscription fee. No word yet on when the 2018 Hyundai Sonata will be available but the car is on display currently at the New York International Auto Show.
“The objective was to make an impact, and this design provides the visual excitement and unique identity our customers associate with Sonata,” Chapman said.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor America

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2017 New York: The Buick Enclave Avenir debuts brand's extra-lux sub-label

2017 New York: The Buick Enclave Avenir debuts brand's extra-lux sub-label Buick is on a long-term quest to reel in the younger crowd and it’s been a tough battle. The Enclave Avenir, alongside their existing and planned model updates proves they have the secret sauce in the kitchen now.

I recently attended Buick’s unveiling of the Enclave Avenir, set to go on sale as a 2018 model. I’m a younger guy, who admittedly fell out of the fast, affordable, and fun car (in other words, $20,000 used German cars) scene. This trumped any attention I had left of any modest daily drivers with warranties that admittedly, fit my rapidly adulting life much more suitably. So going to a Buick event intrigued me, but in all honesty, I wasn’t expecting anything to fit my tastes, to say the least. Except maybe some free high-end waters, or some cool people to network with.
Enough to impress the BMW and Mercedes lot?

I’m thrilled to report, the water was delicious. The people were more Mercedes or BMW affluent types. And the car…the car surprised me. American cars, even post-bankruptcy fallout, featured novelty features and ergonomics improvements. The exterior and interior designs also showed signs of improvement, gradually edging ever so much closer to borderline extremely impressive. The Avenir, based upon the seven passenger Enclave crossover that Buick already sells, is loaded with actually appealing standard and optional treats.
A cabin air ionizing filter, a rear view mirror camera, and truly next level LED headlamps all caught me off guard. This is stuff I’d expect to see in a BMW 5-Series. Meaning, if I bought a 540i tomorrow, I’d expect this level of equipment.
Enough of that trio. Let’s discuss things that aren’t listed as features on the window sticker. The 3.6 liter V6 makes 302 horsepower, and 260 pound-feet of torque. The car can tow a 5,000 pound speedboat (as they said in the unveiling).
Buick builds quality

The build quality? Holy moly. GM is really there! And, in a Buick! The colorway of the interior was modern, pleasing, and revealing (i.e. not just all black). The leather was smooth, the gaps were minuscule, and interior trim had that unique comforting feel like you’d expect in that 5-Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Buick, you’ve come a long way since straining to get Tiger Woods to sell your cars. You haven’t sold cloth bench seat grandpa-mobiles in a long time, but still, you’re generations ahead of where you were a few years ago. You’re on the map. The real map, not the “wow GM is doing really well, but not well enough for me” map. That leads us to the biggest question of all.
Would I buy one? No. But, only because it’s way more than an unmarried 30-something needs. If I had a wife and two kids? I’d test drive one ASAP – very impressive.
– By: Pat Miller
2018 Enclave Avenir Specifications
Overview
Model:
Buick Enclave Avenir
Body style / driveline:
midsize SUV / front-engine; front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive
Construction:
body-frame integral
EPA vehicle class:
sport utility vehicle
Manufacturing location:
Lansing Delta Township
Key competitors:
Acura MDX, Infiniti QX60, Lincoln MKX

Propulsion Systems
Engine:
3.6L V6 with stop/start technology
Displacement
(cu in / cc):
223 / 3649
Bore & stroke (in / mm):
3.7 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6
Block material:
cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:
cast aluminum
Valvetrain:
DOHC, four valves per cylinder with VVT
Fuel delivery:
direct fuel injection
Buick-est. Horsepower
(hp / kW @ rpm):
302 / 227 @ 6800 (est.)
Buick-est. Torque
(lb.-ft. / Nm @ rpm):
260 / 353 @ 2800 (est.)
Buick-estimated fuel economy (city / hwy / comb):
17 / 25 / 20 (FWD)
17 / 24 / 19 (AWD)
Buick-estimated 0-60 mph (seconds)
7.2 (FWD)
7.5 (AWD)
Transmission:
Hydra-Matic nine-speed automatic
Trailering (lbs)
1,500
5,000 (with factory-installed towing package)

Chassis/Suspension
Suspension (front):
MacPherson strut
Suspension (rear):
Five-link
available AWD with active twin clutch
available premium suspension with continuously variable real-time damping (CDC)
Steering type:
electric variable power-assist steering (EPS) with Active Return Assist
Turning circle (ft / m):
39 / 11.9
Brakes:
four-wheel-disc, variable brake system with power assist; Duralife brake rotors and four-channel ABS
Wheel size and type:
20-in. cast aluminum with Pearl Nickel finish
Tires:
P255/55R20 all-season

DimensionsExterior
Wheelbase (in / mm):
120.9 / 3071
Overall length
(in / mm):
204.3 / 5189
Overall width (in / mm):
78.8 / 2001.5
Overall height
(in / mm):
69.9 / 1775
Track (in / mm):
67.3 / 1709 (front)
67 / 1702 (rear)
Curb weight (lb / kg):
4358 / 1977 (base)
Fuel tank (gal):
19.4 (FWD)
21.7 (AWD)

Interior
Seating capacity:
up to seven passengers
Headroom
(in / mm):
front: 41 / 1041.4 (without moonroof)
2nd row: 39.9 / 1013.5 (without moonroof)
3rd row: 37.6 / 955
Legroom
(in / mm):
front: 41.2 / 1046.5
2nd row: 38.9 / 988.1
3rd row: 33.7 / 856
Shoulder room
(in / mm):
front: 62.4 / 1581
2nd row: 61.7 / 1566
3rd row: 57.3 / 1455
Hip room
(in / mm):
front: 59.1 / 1500
2nd row: 57.7 / 1465
3rd row: 48.5 / 1233
Cargo volume*
(cu. ft. / L):
97.6 / 2764.5 (behind first row)
58 / 1642.9 (behind second row)
23.6 / 668.2 (behind third row)
3.1 / 88.6 (underfloor storage bin)
*Measurements calculated according to new SAE standard. Cargo space behind the first row has increased overall by seven cubic feet from the first generation Enclave.
2017 New York – Buick Enclave Avenir Gallery

The post 2017 New York: The Buick Enclave Avenir debuts brand’s extra-lux sub-label appeared first on egmCarTech.

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Automoblog Book Garage: The Art of the Classic Sports Car

Automoblog Book Garage: The Art of the Classic Sports Car

Tony Borroz, one of Automoblog’s featured contributors, grew up in a racing family. It’s always interesting when he recalls certain dinner conversations from his early years. Just as some families may watch a particular sports team, or enjoy activities like camping and fishing, Tony’s was one of white-knuckle horsepower, filled with spirited debates.
It was during those moments Tony’s love for sports cars and racing blossomed.
As they would debate (in an incredibly Italian fashion according to Tony) about who had the best chassis setup, or who was rolling out the fastest, most capable car that year, his life was shaped and his bent would forever be automotive. Think back to your own life – do you remember when you first fell in love with cars? The latest entry in our Book Garage series will easily rekindle that passion.
Specs & Stories
The Art of the Classic Sports Car: Pace and Grace documents the true sports cars of the automotive world; cars that unlike their “normal” counterparts, ride, handle, and sprint in remarkable ways. The question remains, however, what was the first sports car? This sparks a good, healthy debate among enthusiasts but if it’s one thing we usually agree on, it’s how these cars truly stand out. The book covers some of the most legendary sports cars from the likes of Jaguar, Chevrolet, Triumph, MG, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Lotus, Alfa-Romeo, and BMW – their full specs are detailed and their stories told.
One of the best is when author Stuart Codling documents the Ferrari 250 California; how Enzo Ferrari faced a desperate postwar Italian economy to develop a truly marvelous 240 horsepower machine unlike anything else. The Art of the Classic Sports Car is a beautifully crafted, wonderfully photographed book that will either rekindle or reaffirm your love for cars.
Photography
James 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.
The Art of the Classic Sports Car: Pace and Grace is available through Amazon and Motorbooks.
The Art of the Classic Sports Car Gallery

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How Motor Oil Prices Have Changed Over 80 Years (Infographic)

How Motor Oil Prices Have Changed Over 80 Years (Infographic)

During my time at Luxury Auto Mall of Sioux Falls, our Express Lube was a happening place. We were the only game in town with a $19.95 oil change, which included a multi-point inspection, window washing, and complete interior vacuuming. We kept a steady stream of cars during the week, with a nice peak coming on Saturday mornings.
It was, in many respects, the good old days. When we finally raised the price of our oil change, a few customers groaned but would remark “it’s a wonder you were able to keep it that low for so long anyway.”
Price Jumps
Our friends at GMPartsCenter.net put together a really interesting chart documenting the prices of motor oil for the last 80 years. The chart shows pricing for conventional motor oil on a per quart basis, the lowest available today being $4.25. The pricing data was tracked down through public library records, while the inflation adjustment was done using Bureau of Labor data.
“When we put this data together, we were amazed to see relatively flat pricing for motor oil between 1934 and 2007,” says Matt Mylan, Parts Director, GMPartsCenter.net. “However, for reasons that aren’t obvious, the price of a quart of conventional motor oil has nearly doubled in the last decade compared to the historical average.”
The jump between 2009 and 2017 is interesting, especially since, after adjusting for inflation, prices stayed around $2 per quart for most of the last 80 years. Mylan doesn’t have a solid explanation for why motor oil costs twice as much as it did ten years ago, or why it held steady for so long.
“I have some theories – a regulatory change, perhaps – but it really is perplexing,” he said.
Havoline Motor Oil advertisement published in Look magazine, July 19th, 1949, Vol. 13, No. 15.
Collector’s Items
The chart also reveals how motor oil containers have changed over the years, from graphics and logos, to what the actual containers were made from.
“In the early days, motor oil was often sold in 5 gallon cans – these cans were sometimes made from metal, and sometimes had cardboard sides with a metal spigot,” Mylan said. “It took many decades to get to the plastic quart bottles we use today.”
During my time as a Service Advisor, we would often imagine how our dealership might be affected by changes in the automotive industry. One of our technicians used to joke about saving current oil containers, saying they could be worth something, someday to a collector. This chart from GMPartsCenter.net shows us we may want to save that empty bottle of Valvoline after all.
“Lately, we’ve seen oil sold in pouches,” Mylan added. “Considering how much motor oil packaging designs have changed, this chart could look really different in another 10 years.”
The chart is below with more details on the inflation and cost of oil here.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

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