Automotive

Corvette C7.R To Race In WEC In Shanghai: An Inside Look

Corvette C7.R To Race In WEC In Shanghai: An Inside Look Hmmm, I wonder how the Chinese market will take to the Corvette? Or at least the C7.R race model that will be competing at the fascinating Shanghai circuit this coming November for the final round of the 2018 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC).
That’s not the end of the championship, but who cares. This does mark a pretty important milestone for Corvette racing.
Straight Away
The race in question will be the 6 Hours of Shanghai, running November 18th at the 16-turn, 5.45-km Shanghai International Circuit. The track, one of the Hermann Tilke specials, has been around since 2004, and the venue plays host to a number of Motorsports’ championships, including the Formula One Chinese Grand Prix. Two of the track’s more salient features, or at least they’re important if you’re a Corvette racer (or a ‘Murican), are these two massively long straights, where horsepower and top speed reign supreme.
So that makes for particularly auspicious timing for Chevrolet to close Corvette Racing’s 20th season of competition in grand style by hopefully winning (i.e. crushing) the competition at Shanghai. This specific C7.R will wear a special Redline livery for the race weekend and it will also be the first factory-run Corvette to race in Asia.
Badge Engineering
This Redline thing is a special livery to promote the launch of the Redline special edition in China. Curiously, this all dates back to the 2015 SEMA Show where a custom concept Redline Corvette made its debut. There was a “strong positive response,” according to Chevrolet – or at least enough of a response for the bean-counters at corporate HQ to green light making a limited edition run of the thing. Or, things, to be more accurate.
Redline is a special edition portfolio for China, with this Vette being the first of four models entering the domestic market this year. In the future, nearly all Chevrolet models in China will have Redline variants. Anyway, as you can see from the photo above (sadly, they only shared one with us), this Redline Corvette racer is a dark gray, silver, black, and anthracite-colored thing with red highlights on the stripes and flashes on the end-plates.
Ah, Generic Motors, the people who invented badge “engineering”. . . don’t ever change!
2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1. Photo: Chevrolet.
Best of the Best
The WEC, for those of you with the mental capacity of a lowland gorilla and the taste to match, is the world’s key sports car series. This is where the big boys come out to play, race, compete, and win at places like Sebring and Spa and, most importantly, Le Mans. None of the races are shorter than six hours, and the marquee events like Sebring and Le Mans are very long indeed. All of these races are run rain or shine, and in the case of Sebring and Le Mans, through the night as well.
The contests gauge not only speed and driver skill, but also the reliability and fuel economy of the cars.
And those of you with a patriotic bent will be happy to know that when it comes to running hot, straight, and true for a very long time, Corvettes are indeed good cars to have under you.
Extensive Resume
Corvette Racing has won 107 endurance races, 12 manufacturer championships in IMSA competition, captured 11 driver’s championships, were 11-time class champions at the Sebring 12-hours, racked up eight Le Mans 24-hour victories, three class championships at the Daytona 24-hours and did the Endurance Triple, winning at Daytona, Sebring and Le Mans in the same year, 2015.
Chevrolet, for all their button-down, lowest-cost-denominator plasticity, has every reason to point out that their company was founded and established by a race car driver named Louis Chevrolet more than a century ago. And it’s worth pointing out all this “win on Sunday, sell on Monday” calculating that Chevy has done, does allow one, if they are so motivated, to trot down to the local Chevrolet dealer and buy a brand new Corvette; let’s say a ZR1, shall we?
The ZR1 is not all that far removed from this C7.R race car, but they drive that one on the street.
Understand?
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: Chevrolet.

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2018 Ford Expedition FX4: For The Great Unknown (Or Getting Groceries)

2018 Ford Expedition FX4: For The Great Unknown (Or Getting Groceries)

Okay, so Ford says their all-new, 2018 Expedition with the FX4 Off-Road Package is the most “off-road-capable Expedition ever,” to which I say so what? If you think about it, that’s not saying much, given how little your average SUV is driven off-road, let alone in extreme off-road conditions. Ford more or less admits this by saying, “for the more than 20 percent of Expedition owners that use their SUV for off-road adventure, Ford introduces the all-new 2018 Expedition FX4 Off-Road Package, making this the most off-road-capable Expedition ever.”
Too Much Or Just Right?
In other words, only one out of five Expedition owners actually drive off the pavement. That’s like Craftsman saying, “hey, did you know that 20 percent of people who buy our tools actually use them to turn screws with?” That’s really nothing much to crow about, Ford.
So the all-new, 2018 Expedition with the FX4 Off-Road Package is better at going off-road. Good, I applaud that. I really do. But as it sits on the showroom floor, don’t expect any of these guys to be turning up at King Of The Hammers or the just run Mint 400. It’s better at running off-road no doubt, but it sure ain’t going to be running in this year’s Dakar Rally. Mostly, it will excel doing what most prospective owners want it to do: commute, haul groceries, get the kids to school and back, or soccer practice and back, and, two or three times a year, maybe do some camping. That’s the truly ironic thing here. Ford has done all these rather impressive upgrades and yet a majority of owners will never use it for that.
2018 Ford Expedition FX4. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Lightweight & Intelligent Tech
It all starts with the Expedition’s high-strength, aluminum-alloy body, which is new this year, and the redesigned high-strength steel frame. Going this route cut 300 pounds, which is a lot. It’s like carrying a dirt bike for free, weight-wise. Anyway, that’s just the starting point for Ford. From there on out, they hang on lots of genuine off-road goodies that are pretty interesting.
For starters, there’s the patented electronic limited-slip rear differential. This helps improve off-road performance in low-traction situations, obviously, by automatically varying power side-to-side – that’s what limited slip diffs do. The thing is geared at 3.73:1 and is electronically limited, rather than the old fashioned sorcery of mechanical diffs (which I still don’t understand, to be honest). The Expedition’s new electronic diff also enhances towing performance and capability, which is a good thing.
There are off-road-tuned shocks, which are more stiff and designed to keep the wheels planted terra firma, whether that’s the road, the dirt or the etc. And of course the FX4 package comes with better all-terrain tires. These off road meats come with thicker sidewalls to preserve a smooth ride while bringing the traction needed over bad terrain.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.

Proper Protection
Did you say skid plates? Oh my yes the 2018 Ford Expedition FX4 has skid plates. This thing has seven skid plates. The seven deadly skids, if you will. There’s a new sand shield to protect the turbocharger intercoolers from getting clogged when driving through tall berms and sand dunes, plus steel plates to protect the steering gear, the engine, the transmission, and transfer case, plus a full-length guard for the fuel tank. Also, the chin spoiler beneath the front bumper has been shortened to improve approach angles.
In the non-technical category, there’s a slew of bits and pieces and parts to make your 2018 Ford Expedition FX4 look good. There are 18-inch Magnetic Metallic-painted cast-aluminum wheels unique to the FX4, chrome running boards, and FX4 badging on the liftgate and front fender. And there is also the handy little goody of new rubber floor liners that feature deep side sills. Think of these as factory versions of WeatherTech floor liners. They can be removed and cleaned of any mud, sand, water or what have you without all that gunk making it into your much harder to clean carpet.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Terrain Management
The FX4 Expedition also comes with Ford’s new Terrain Management System. The TMS lets you select from seven drive modes that automatically adapt to different road conditions. There’s normal mode for around town driving; sport for “more spirited trips;” tow/haul for improved towing and hauling performance, obviously; eco for better fuel economy; grass/gravel/snow for loose terrain; sand for even lower traction situations and, at the far end of the scale, mud/rut for traveling over uneven surfaces. You can manually select either 2WD or 4WD in any mode.
Power & Performance
The all-new Expedition has tons of interior space, the-now-ubiquitous connectivity and smart technology features everyone expects, and the much-loved EcoBoost engine. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost cranks out 375 ponies and 470 lb-ft. of torque. It also comes standard with Auto Start-Stop and a new 10-speed transmission. Towing? How about 9,300 pounds? Not bad.
The 2018 Ford Expedition FX4 goes on sale this fall. So sure, 80 percent won’t notice what all that stuff is there for, but for the other 20 percent of you, enjoy.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.

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The Jaguar XE SV Project 8 is the most powerful road-going Jaguar ever

The Jaguar XE SV Project 8 is the most powerful road-going Jaguar ever Thanks to upgrades from Jaguar-Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO), the Jaguar XE SV Project 8 cracks 200 mph.

What’s going on?
The Jaguar XE is a compelling alternative to the compact luxury sports sedan perennials from Germany. But ever since the XE came out, there hasn’t been a competitor to the high-performance variants of the Germans such as the BMW M3, Audi S4, and Mercedes-AMG C-Class…until now.
Meet the all-new Jaguar XE SV Project 8, the most powerful and agile road-going Jaguar ever made.
As the first hand-assembled model by SVO, the new Jaguar XE SV Project 8 is the culmination of Jaguar-Land Rover’s $25 million investment into the SVO Technical Center in Warwickshire, UK. Basically, the it’s the performance branch to Jaguar, like Mercedes-AMG is to Mercedes-Benz, and BMW M Division to BMW.
“SVO’s raison d’être is to produce halo vehicles that push the boundaries in terms of luxury, performance and all-terrain capability. Project 8 is a great example of what happens when enthusiastic designers, engineers and manufacturing specialists are given the opportunity to create an extreme performance sports car without compromise,” said John Edwards in the car’s launch statement, the managing director for J-LR Special Operations. “Project 8 will be assembled by hand in the new SVO Technical Center, and we’re confident that our enthusiastic and demanding clients will love driving Project 8 as much we do!”
What’s cool about it?
The first thing you’ll notice about the Jaguar XE SV Project 8, besides its radiant orange hue, is the bonkers boy-racer performance kit. The front lower fascia gains a new look with odd-looking vents meant to gobble up massive volumes of air for cooling and aerodynamics. But more so, the entire kit reduces the weight of the XE, thanks to extensive use of carbon fiber for both front and rear bumpers, the adjustable rear wing, and the rear diffuser.
Under the hood sits the latest and greatest iteration of Jaguar’s ubiquitous AJ-V8, displacing 5.0-liters and with support from a supercharger, producing 592 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Those 592 horses go through a ZF-sourced eight-speed Quickshift automatic and all-wheel traction to help put the power down. Jaguar claims a top speed of over 200 mph and a 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds.

Though carbon-based materials don’t just find themselves in body parts. The Jaguar XE SV Project 8 also comes standard with Jaguar’s latest Carbon Ceramic Brake system, making it the first Jaguar to feature the system. The CCB system also works in tandem with the stability and traction control and the Electronic Active Differential with Torque Vectoring by Braking to counter understeer. In simplified terms, the XE SV Project 8 basically utilizes braking power to simulate what a typical, mechanical limited-slip differential and stability control would do under aggressive cornering. But now, the systems work more with each other and are optimized for increased performance.
While you can get into the Jaguar XE SV Project 8 and just go anywhere like a bat out of hell, Jaguar equipped the vehicle with fully adjustable Continuously Variable Dampers in the suspension. Owners can adjust the ride height and shock stiffness, making it the most track-biased SVO car to date. Additionally, other details include a swap out of various bushings and bits for more expensive more capable ones to help reduce mass and improve handling response and precision.
On the inside, the Project 8 features four seats only, versus the standard XE’s five. Up front sit magnesium-framed Performance seats with contrast stitching and Premium Jet leather, complemented by Miko suedecloth trim. Alcantara festoons surfaces such as the dashboard, door panels, and steering wheel. And although the Project 8 is performance oriented, there’s still plenty of Jaguar swag to keep things luxurious.
A 10.2-inch tablet-like touchscreen comes standard for the Jaguar InControl Touch Pro infotainment system. For those keeping tabs on track times, there’s even an integrated stopwatch and telemetry application to help bolster track-day bets with friends. Above it all, the Project 8 is also one fast 4G WiFi hotspot.
When can I get one?
Jaguar-Land Rover SVO claims only 300 of these Project 8s will hit production worldwide and only in left-hand drive. Prices aren’t available just yet, but that should surface closer to the car’s launch, following its debut at the 2017 Goodwood Festival of Speed. And expect to be high.
– By: Chris Chin
Jaguar XE SV Project 8 Specifications
TECHNICAL DATA
JAGUAR XE SV PROJECT 8
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION9

Engine capacity (cc)
5,000
Layout
V8 Supercharged gasoline
Power
592HP @ 6,500rpm
Torque
516- lb. ft. @ 3,500-5,000rpm
Transmission
8-speed Quickshift automatic, All-Wheel Drive, Stop/Start
CHASSIS

Front and rear suspension
Front: independent, double wishbones, adjustable coil springs, CVD dampers
Rear: independent, Integral Link, adjustable coil springs, CVD dampers
Front brakes
15.7-in/400mm Carbon Ceramic Braking discs, six-piston sliding caliper
Rear brakes
15.6-in/396mm Carbon Ceramic Braking discs, single-piston sliding caliper
Wheels and tires
Front: 9.5 x 20in forged alloy, 265/35 R20 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2
Rear: 11 x 20in forged alloy, 305/30 R20 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2
Steering
Rack-and-pinion; electromechanical
DIMENSIONS

Length
185.6-in / 4,713mm
Width including mirrors
81.7-in / 2,075mm
Width excluding Mirrors
76.9-in / 1,954mm
Road Height
56.5-in / 1,436mm
Track Height
55.9-in / 1,421mm
Wheelbase
111.6-in / 2,835mm
Weight
From 3,847-lbs / 1,745kg
PERFORMANCE9

0-60mph
3.3 sec(1)
0-100km/h
3.7 sec(1)
Top speed
200mph(1)
Jaguar XE SV Project 8 Gallery

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Aston Martin Confirms First All-Electric Vehicle With RapidE

Aston Martin Confirms First All-Electric Vehicle With RapidE

A concept vehicle no more says Aston Martin, confirming the RapidE will come to fruition. The forthcoming all-electric RapidE underscores Aston Martin’s commitment to low- and zero-emission vehicles, a critical component of the automaker’s Second Century Plan as directed by President and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Andy Palmer.
The vehicle was developed alongside Williams Advanced Engineering in Grove, Oxfordshire, England.
Concept Rooted
The RapidE is based upon the Rapide AMR concept and will look similar to the Rapide S, although an all-electric powertain will replace the V12 of the Rapide S. Aston Martin promises “instantaneous delivery characteristics,” meaning the RapidE will probably be a blast to drive. The RapidE Concept first appeared in October 2015 and according to Aston Martin, was a significant milestone toward an electrified portfolio.
“RapidE represents a sustainable future in which Aston Martin’s values of seductive style and supreme performance don’t merely co-exist alongside a new zero-emission powertrain, but are enhanced by it,” Dr. Palmer said. “RapidE will showcase Aston Martin’s vision, desire, and capability to successfully embrace radical change, delivering a new breed of car that stays true to our ethos and delights our customers.”
Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.

Valuable Partnerships
The aforementioned Williams Advanced Engineering has played, and will continue to play, an important role in bringing the RapidE to market. The company feels honored to be apart of the vehicle’s development.
“This project with Aston Martin will draw on the extensive battery and EV experience we have accumulated, and we are extremely pleased to be supporting this prestigious British company with their future electrification strategy,” explained Paul McNamara, Technical Director, Williams Advanced Engineering.
McNamara also touched on the importance of working together when it comes to developing more energy efficient automobiles.
“Williams Advanced Engineering has always endeavored to work collaboratively with its customers to meet their sustainability challenges and find energy efficient solutions,” he said. “For today’s car manufacturers, this is particularly important as legislation demands more energy efficient vehicles.”
Supply & Production
The Aston Martin RapidE will have a limited build run of 155 units; expect production to get underway in 2019. Those who enjoy more traditional powertrains from the British marquee need not worry.
“The internal combustion engine has been at the heart of Aston Martin for more than a century, and will continue to be for years to come,” Dr. Palmer added.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo: Aston Martin The Americas.
Photos & Source: Aston Martin The Americas.

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2017 Toyota Camry XSE V6 Review

2017 Toyota Camry XSE V6 Review

“If it ain’t broke don’t fix it,” is a motto credited to an old Georgia farmer who was talking about the government. Toyota has a habit of fixing things that aren’t broken but it has worked well for them. The Toyota Camry midsize sedan has been America’s best-selling car it seems like forever, and it’s still the best-selling model, thanks to Toyota engineers who keep fixing it. Simply put, it keeps getting better with age.
It stands in a super-competitive segment with the Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, and Hyundai Sonata. This week, we drove the 2017 Toyota Camry XSE V6.
What’s New For 2017
Toyota is taking a breather from fixing the Camry and the sedan has changed little for 2017. Even then, Toyota has tweaked the Camry’s top trim levels for more standard features, including an upgraded infotainment system and a wireless charging pad.
Features & Options
The 2017 Toyota Camry XSE V6 ($31,370) comes with 18-inch wheels, LED running lights, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather and simulated-suede upholstery, the aforementioned charging pad, an upgraded Entune system with 7-inch display, a smartphone app-based navigation system, and a 10-speaker premium audio system with satellite and HD radio. V6 models also get LED headlights, a sunroof, a noise-reducing windshield, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Camry XSE adds a universal garage-door opener, auto-dimming mirror, and dual exhaust outlets.
Our XSE tester came with the optional Blind Spot Monitor ($500), Navigation ($710), and the Technology package ($750) that added adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and mitigation, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams. Total MSRP as tested including destination: $35,903.

Interior Highlights
The cabin of the 2017 Camry XSE hasn’t been changed much either since the 2015 remodel. The XSE has door sills that light up, comfortable, heated sport leather seats, and ultrasuede inserts with extra side bolstering. The interior features contemporary styling that’s simple yet with an elegant feel. There’s an abundance of contrasting stitching on the seats, doors, dash, center console, shifter boot, and steering wheel adding to the ambiance.
The climate control and premium audio with simple and easy to use controls is refreshing compared to some models. That’s not always the case in the cabins of some other automaker’s upper trim levels.
The 2017 Toyota Camry features one of the most comfortable and spacious cabins in the midsize sedan segment. The backseat offers plenty of room for taller adults and a rear-facing child seat can be installed. It will fit easily in the back. There’s also lots of storage and cubby holes up front to place things. Space in the trunk, at 15.4 cubic feet, is average for a midsize sedan.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs

Our Camry XSE tester came powered by the optional 3.5-liter V6 that produces 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft. of torque. The sedan features a front-wheel drive configuration and a six-speed automatic, with Eco/Sport modes and steering wheel paddle shifters. With the V6, the Camry XSE gets an EPA-estimated 21/30 city/highway and 24 combined mpg. The mpg rating puts it on par with the competition.
Driving Dynamics
As is our practice, we took the Toyota Camry XSE into the mountains, west of Denver, to see how the V6 handles the altitude and the elevation change. Between Denver, which is 5,280 ft. above sea level and Evergreen, which is 8,500 ft. above sea level, is where I live. The 3.5-liter V6 engine delivered above average acceleration for a family sedan. Transmission upshifts are responsive, which is noteworthy, given that some competitor’s automatic transmissions are lethargic for the sake of fuel economy.
We kept the 6-speed automatic in Eco for a relaxed driving experience but dropped it into Sport mode later on. We used the steering wheel shifters for extra engagement while passing trucks on I-70. The sport-tuned suspension is responsive to driver inputs and fairly composed when going around tight mountain curves. The XSE dials up driver engagement if you have an itch to push the Camry a bit harder. It’s not as sporty as other rivals like the Mazda 6, but it’s not a rolling couch potato either.
Toyota’s V6 will sprint from 0 to 60 in 6.2 seconds, making it one of the quickest cars in the class. Fuel mileage suffers if you use that available power, however. The XSE’s 225/45R18 tires do provide a bit more grip than the standard Camry’s smaller meats; an advantage that’s intangible to the average driver. The sport suspension, however, delivers pleasant ride quality. It’s deliberate in quick maneuvers, but the electric power steering conveys very little of that tactile information to the driver.
Conclusion
The seventh-generation of Toyota’s Camry is still a good value for sedan shoppers because of Toyota’s traditional strengths of build quality, reliability, and resale value at trade-in. Camry is number one for a reason and delivers with a competent, quiet, and comfortable ride. For the average family, the XSE will deliver a satisfying commute. For a local business, the new Camry would be a good company car. The XSE trim does dial up excitement for those seeking a ride that’s a little higher on the fun-to-drive meter than the other Camry trim levels.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Toyota Corolla Gallery

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2017 Toyota Camry Official Site.
Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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Letter From The UK: Headed For The Rocks

Letter From The UK: Headed For The Rocks

Is The Great British Car Industry Heading For The Rocks?
A few weeks ago, the Conservative Government of the UK called a General Election in the belief they would gain a strong majority in the UK Parliament ahead of the Brexit negotiations. At the time this seemed very likely. The trouble is, they went on to run the most disastrous election campaign this country has ever seen. Overall, they are now in a much worse position to govern than before and that includes their dealings with the EU machine.
Now, with a much weaker hand to play, the British Prime Minister, Teresa May, has flown off to Brussels to give a speech to European Union leaders about one of the consequences of Britain leaving the EU. In this case, it is about EU citizens who live and work in the UK and their British counterparts who do the same in Europe.
All At Sea
It is a storm in a teacup. No reasonable government would kick out working citizens at a stroke but it does highlight something else. British agriculture has become use to a steady flow of migrant or itinerant workers from abroad who seasonally pick produce that can’t be garnered by automation.
The result of this is that the stream of such workers is starting to dry up because they don’t know where they stand. The thing is neither does anyone else. This has repercussions for our motor industry. With the possible exception (so I hear) of the current American administration, our leaders here don’t seem to have a clue what to do. Their solution so far is to keep bailing out the sinking ship of State in the hope that someone will bring along a bigger bucket.
A recent BBC News article reads: “David Cameron, his Chancellor George Osborne and many other senior figures who wanted to stay in the EU predicted an immediate economic crisis if the UK voted to leave. House prices would fall, there would be a recession with a big rise in unemployment – and an emergency Budget would be needed to bring in the large cuts in spending that would be needed.”
The Car Industry
The car sales industry in the UK and Europe is huge and Britain imports many cars from Europe and similarly exports out our brands. As the UK car industry is almost entirely foreign owned the worry is that the owners, come Brexit time in 2019, will jump ship fearing trade tariffs will make their UK production uneconomic. That would be a disaster for Great Britain. Further, UK car plants also depend heavily on the free movement of components to and from the continent.
The British Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders are on record as saying that any new relationship with the EU would need to address tariff and non-tariff barriers, plus regulatory and labor issues, all of which “will take time to negotiate.” In short, they don’t think a deal can be sorted out in the next two years and that some form of interim arrangement must be implemented. This could mean, for example, that the UK stay in the single market and customs union until a new, overarching relationship between the two sides is brokered.
McLaren employees celebrate the 10,000th car from the McLaren Production Centre in Woking, England in December 2016. Photo: McLaren Automotive Limited.

Live In Hope Not Expectation
When asked, the SMMT’s chief executive said it was time to be pragmatic. He went on: “we accept that we are leaving the European Union and we share the desire for that departure to be a success. But our biggest fear is that, in two year’s time, we fall off a cliff edge – no deal outside the single market and customs union and trading on inferior World Trade Organization terms. This would undermine our competitiveness and our ability to attract the investment that is critical to future growth.”
In the typically aggressive manner the British have come to expect from EU negotiators over Brexit, their chief negotiator has said there can be no concessions. This is unhelpful. In general, the attitude of the big cheeses who run the European Union is like that of a child who can’t have its own way. They throw their toys out of the pram. This is not conducive to good business and the car makers, being intelligent and sentient beings and not politicians, know this. And they are worried.
The damage to the British car industry could be immense. There must be a solution and, because the car makers have to think long-term, there has to be one soon. Fortunately living in hope is a British trait. We don’t have any other choice.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite

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2019 Subaru Crosstrek: When You “Need” An SUV (But Really Don’t)

2019 Subaru Crosstrek: When You “Need” An SUV (But Really Don’t) You don’t need an SUV. You really don’t. What you need is this, the Subaru Crosstrek. I mean, a reasonable person, right? Sometimes you might have to drive in pretty inclement weather? Sometimes you go camping? Regular skier or snowboarder? Live on a normal street? Rarely, if ever, have to take more than three people with you?
Yeah, the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek is for you.
Wants Versus Needs
Look, I get it. An SUV gives you a sense of security, and yeah, you might have to use it to get yourself out of a serious apocalyptic jam. But seriously, I know only three people who need an SUV: One is my friend Carl, who lives up in the middle of the woods in a log cabin on a reservation, the other is a doctor/avid snowboarder friend of mine who does emergency pediatric transport, and the other lives in the middle of Alaska.
Anyone else? 90 percent of the time, you’re just posing.
No, for what you actually use an SUV for, the Subaru Crosstrek (goofy name aside) has you covered. Effectively, the Crosstrek is an Impreza with a factory lift kit, some notional bash-plates, and that inherent Subaru all-weather capability baked in from the start. It’s a wagon, so it can haul a reasonable amount of people and stuff; it’s smaller so it’s easier to park and all that, and it gets much better gas mileage than that deuce-and-a-half you’re considering for grocery duty.
Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.
Packaged Performance
When it shows up at dealers later this summer, the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek will come in three flavors: 2.0i base, 2.0i Premium, and 2.0i Limited and ring out at just $100 more than last year, starting at $21,895. No matter the trim level, all 2019 Crosstreks come with standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, a safety nanny thing-o that combines features like Pre-Collision Braking and Throttle Management, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, and Lane Keep Assist in one nice package.
Since it’s a Subie, every Crosstrek comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Does Subaru even make a non-AWD car? I don’t think so. The drivetrain also features such niceties as Active Torque Vectoring and Subie’s evergreen 2.0-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine, putting out 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft. of torque.
The Base and Premium trims have an optional six-speed manual or a Lineartronic CVT transmission. The CVT models will also get you X-MODE and Hill Descent Control.
Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.
Styling & Tech Treatments
The 2019 Crosstrek rides along with 8.7-inches of ground clearance and on 17-inch alloy wheels, in black, with a machined finish. On the inside, you’ll see the standard 6.5-inch Starlink Multimedia system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 60/40-folding rear seat, multi-function display with fuel economy information, keyless entry, a security system with engine immobilizer and, I hope you’re sitting down: carpeted floor mats.
Also, the interior has black simulated carbon fiber trim, because why not.
Below is a handy-dandy little chart that Subaru sent us, detailing all the models, option packages, and costs for the 2019 Crosstrek.
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
2019 Crosstrek
Model/Trim
Transmission
Applicable Option Code
MSRP
MSRP + destination and delivery
2.0i
6MT
01
$21,895
$22,870
2.0i
CVT
01, 03
$22,895
$23,870
2.0i Premium
6MT
11
$22,895
$23,870
2.0i Premium
CVT
11, 12, 13, 14
$23,895
$24,870
2.0i Limited
CVT
21, 22, 23
$27,195
$28,170

2019 Crosstrek Option Packages
Code
Description
MSRP
01
Standard Model (6MT or CVT)
N/A
03
EyeSight®
$845
11
Standard Model (6MT or CVT)
N/A
12
Moonroof + Blind Spot Detection/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert
$1,400
13
EyeSight + Blind Spot Detection/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert
$1,395
14
EyeSight + Moonroof + Blind Spot Detection/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert
$2,395
21
Standard Model
N/A
22
Moonroof
$1,000
23
Moonroof + Navigation System + Harman Kardon Amplifier and Speakers
$2,350
2019 Subaru Crosstrek Gallery

Photos & Source: Subaru of America, Inc.

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17 Years Later: Did Fast and the Furious Boost The Appeal of Japanese Cars?

17 Years Later: Did Fast and the Furious Boost The Appeal of Japanese Cars? 17 years after The Fast and the Furious hit theaters and showed the Japanese tuner scene to many Americans for the first time, prices of the rides portrayed continue to rise. This according to ClassicCars.com, to which I can only say, duh!
If you think about it, this is pointing out the obvious to the Nth degree. Of course the prices of Japanese cars are continuing to rise, and it’s not down to a “car” movie franchise that turned into a caper movie franchise with cars tacked on as little more than props.
Japanese cars, especially anything rare or odd (Mazda Cosmos and Toyota 2000 GTs are two good examples) are rising in price – everything is going up in price, it’s called inflation.
Born Yesterday
ClassicCars.com says that F & F’s use of Nissans, Mazdas, and Toyotas, and showing them in the same light as established collectible cars like a Ferrari 355 or 1970 Dodge Charger exposed young viewers to an “edgier and more accessible aspect of car culture, causing a shift in pop culture that still effects both the film and auto industries today.”
Which is, largely, horse manure.
Sure, the Fast and the Furious franchise (horrid words to associate with a movie) showed off the import tuner scene to a wider audience, but so did Gran Turismo on the PlayStation and the growing influence of Asian culture in general, and Japanese culture specifically. You don’t have to be Stanley Milgram to figure that one out.
Or maybe you do, at least if you don’t understand societies, how they grow and change, and what semi-outside forces impart those changes. Lord knows the people at ClassicCars.com are stretching for a connection that isn’t really there. Still, they point to four Japanese rides that are currently rising in value: Mazda RX-7, Toyota Supra, 1994 Acura Integra GS-R, and the 1997 Nissan 240SX.
An average Nissan 240SX will cost only a few thousand today despite its price of almost $22,000 in 1997. “These can still be bought cheap, with stock versions being extremely rare as most of the original S13 and S14 models have been either modified for drifting or tuned to look more like performance cars from the film or according to trends seen in the Japanese and California import scene,” said Andy Reid, East Coast Editor and Analyst, ClassicCars.com. Photo courtesy of ClassicCars.com.
Modified Movie Props
The RX they’re talking about is the 1993 Mazda RX-7. Yes, in 2005 a 1993 Mazda RX-7 used in the film sold for the respectable sum of $40,250 at a Bonhams’ auction, but that’s a screen-used movie prop. Unscathed used versions sell for about half that . . . if you can find one. These things were modified far too often, so that might drive up the prices of an original model. Slightly.
ClassicCars.com says an average example of a Mark IV Supra will cash out around $70,000 these days. Again, these last gen Supras are hard to find in un-assaulted form, a lot of them being picked up by rich kids and tweaked and repainted in garish color schemes. The actual 1993 Toyota Supra driven by Paul Walker in the movie sold for $185,000 in 2015 – a full $115,000 more than non-movie cars and $135,000 more than when it was new.
ClassicCars.com says an original, low-mileage Toyota Supra goes for about $90,000 on their site.
And then the 1994 Acura Integra GS-R – essentially a factory hot rod with some unique suspension bits, badges, and the like – nothing really that special, which might be reflected in the current price range of around $15,000. Finally, the 1997 Nissan 240SX, listing for only a few thousand, is barely worth mentioning in terms of collectability.
1994 Acura Integra GS-R Coupe. Photo: Honda North America.
Good But Not Grand
You don’t have to look very hard at those cars, the FD Mazda RX-7, Mark IV Toyota Supra, the 1994 Acura Integra GS-R, and the 1997 Nissan 240SX to see why “showing them in the same light as Ferrari F355s” is a false equivalency. Ferrari made a total of 11,273 F355 models. Mazda made 68,589 gen three RX7s, Toyota made 11,239 Supras; approximately 42,000 1994 Acura Integra GS-Rs rolled off the assembly line, and over half a million 240 SXs were made.
And sure, all those cars are cool, but they will never, ever be as cool or as rare or as desirable as anything made by Ferrari. Or most Porsches, Jags, Astons, Healeys and such. They’re fun cars, but don’t mistake them for being something more than they are.
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
Source: ClassicCars.com.
Cover Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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2018 Dodge Durango: SRT Flavor With Every Bite

2018 Dodge Durango: SRT Flavor With Every Bite

Earlier this year, at the Chicago Auto Show, Dodge revealed the 2018 Durango SRT, effectively saying their answer to the world’s problems is to throw more horsepower at the situation. Waxing poetics aside, the strategy seems effective enough with Dodge taking the crown for the most powerful three-row SUV on the market today.
Dodge recently revealed the 2018 Durango R/T which has similar characteristics as its older brother.
Striking DNA
The Durango SRT is easily noticeable by its aggressive, yet functional hood which features a center air inlet duct flanked by heat extractors. The front lower valence houses a new cold-air duct system and LED fog lamps – these things are done in the name of style and performance, and R/T buyers will have this exact same setup on their Durango.
Engine choices include the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 rated at 295 horsepower, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 rated at 360 horsepower, and the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 rated at 475 horsepower. Regardless of which trim level buyers opt for in the Durango, Dodge is singing the hymns of power and performance. The automaker is keen to point out how buyers can get “SRT attitude” in every Durango powertrain.
“Performance is more than stats,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Car Brands – Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and FIAT, FCA – North America. “At Dodge performance is an attitude that permeates through everything we do.”
Photo: FCA US LLC.
Special Treatments
The Durango R/T is one of only two models available in a B5 Blue exterior color (late availability); Durango SRT being the other. Additional standard goodies for the R/T include Front Park Assist and a BeatsAudio system complete with a subwoofer and 506-watt amplifier. All 2018 Durango models come with a backup camera, a new sport steering wheel, and electronic T-shifter with an Auto Stick selector gate. Customers can also opt for the available hand wrapped instrument panel with accent stitching.
“We are strengthening the brand’s promise to deliver performance vehicles with world-class power, technology, and standout styling our customers have come to expect,” Kuniskis added.
Dealers are taking orders for the 2018 Durango with an anticipated arrival sometime in the third quarter. Pricing will be announced closer to the vehicles arriving at dealers. For the current model year, Durango trim levels include the SXT, SXT Plus, GT, Citadel, and R/T.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo: FCA US LLC.
Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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