Automotive

The 2019 TVR Griffith marks the return of the famed British sports car maker

The 2019 TVR Griffith marks the return of the famed British sports car maker TVR finally reveals its latest sports car after changing ownership in 2013, marking the official return of the automaker.

What’s going on?
After years of anticipation and much teasing in between, TVR finally revealed its all-new 2019 Griffith sports coupe.
Back in 2013, British entrepreneur, Les Edgar, purchased the company from a Russian businessman, who sadly let TVR wither away almost into nothing. But Edgar wasn’t going to let that happen, calling for the return of TVR to make sports cars once again. Thanks to his visions and his vows to reintroduce the “supercars for the common man,” we’re given the all-new Griffith.
Cool! TVR is back! But it looks a little mundane for a TVR

Yes they are, with a completely new car. And I’d 100% agree with you if that’s what ran through your head initially. The last TVRs ever made weren’t anywhere what’d you’d call traditional in almost every sense. Both from an aesthetic design and functional perspective, TVRs were the epitome of modern automotive quirkiness. But that’s also what made them so unique, special, and lovable.
So although the 2019 TVR Griffith seems a bit watered down, we’re still hugely excited for the company’s return. Its designed was penned by the one and only Gordon Murray, featuring his innovative iStream architecture. So not only does the funky sheetmetal look good, it’s made of lightweight materials and bolstered by carbon composite structuring.
What powers it?
Through the various teasers over the past four years, TVR confirmed power comes from a Ford-sourced Coyote V8, the same you find in a Mustang GT. It’s then sent to renowned tuning firm, Cosworth, who fiddles with the Ford V8 and fits it with a dry-sump lubrication system.
TVR did not confirm any official power numbers yet, but they claim the Griffith and its 5.0L Cosworth-tuned Ford V8 achieves a power-to-weight ratio of 400bhp per tonne. TVR says the Griffith weighs less than 1250 kg, or 2,755 lbs, or 1.25 tonnes. Multiplying that 400bhp per the Griffith’s 1.25 tonnes weight, and the math works out to be around 500 break horsepower from the V8.
It’s channeled only to the rear wheels with a six-speed Tremec manual, rated to handle up to 700 pound-feet of torque at engines speeds of up to 7500 RPM.
The resulting performance numbers are a speed of over 200 miles per hour and a 0-60 time of less than four seconds, according to the manufacturer’s claims.
And the handling…
TVR promises the Griffith delivers a balanced handling experience with 50/50 weight distribution and a light body.
Helping to slow things down are six-piston brake calipers up front and four-piston at the rear. The power steering system is electrically assisted and suspending the car at both ends are standard double-wishbone arrangements.
When will it go on sale?
TVR claims production is scheduled to commence in late 2018. A Launch Edition marks the first 500 cars produced, featuring custom color choices, special Launch Edition color options, and a special wheel package only available on the Launch Edition.
Pricing for the launch edition begins at £90,000 or around $119,000 USD.
– By: Chris Chin
2019 TVR Griffith Specifications
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Body: Two-seat coupe, with carbon chassis, and composite body with a number of aluminium panels.
Chassis: iStream® design steel and aluminium frame with bonded carbon composite sections
Suspension
Front: Double wishbones with adjustable gas filled coil-over dampers with concentric springs
Rear: Double wishbones with adjustable gas filled coil-over dampers with concentric springs

Steering: Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS)
Brakes
Front: Six-piston aluminium brake calipers and 2-piece ventilated floating brake discs with 370mm diameter and 32mm thickness
Rear: Four-piston aluminium brake calipers and 2-piece ventilated floating brake discs with 350mm diameter and 32mm thickness

Wheels and tyres
Front: 235/35 ZR19, on 8.5in wide rims
Rear: 275/30 ZR20, on 9.5in wide rims

Weight
Unladen weight:
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The all-new 2019 Nissan LEAF falls into place with a new design

The all-new 2019 Nissan LEAF falls into place with a new design Nissan just revealed the second-generation of its iconic LEAF electric vehicle so you can hug trees as you drive by.
What’s going on?
Following many teasers and spy shots, Nissan finally revealed the next-generation LEAF for the world to see in Las Vegas.
Carrying the EV torch for the Japanese automaker for a new model, the 2018 LEAF promises many improvements over the previous model. This includes better battery performance and more tech.
Looking somewhat like a sleeker Chevrolet Bolt, the second-gen LEAF follows Nissan’s new design philosophy. Within that new design, which takes on the appearance of a more traditional hatchback, Nissan boasts roominess and lots of new advanced telematics systems.
“When we launched LEAF in 2010, it instantly became the most affordable, mass market EV in the world. We are not walking away from that proposition,” said Jose Muñoz, Nissan North America, Inc. Chief Performance Officer. “The value equation for the new LEAF is even stronger than ever before – beginning with a starting MSRP1 under $30,000. That’s a lower price than the LEAF in market today and it includes more power, range and technology, all wrapped in a beautiful new exterior and interior design.”

What’s new?
The 2018 Nissan LEAF is said to offer a 150-mile total driving range. That’s 43 miles more than the outgoing mode’s 107-mile range. This is accomplished thanks to a new innovative “e-Pedal.” At the flick of a switch, drivers can turn the accelerator into a unified stop and go pedal. It’s the first of its kind, allowing the driver to decelerate and even bring the car to a complete halt, even on hills. It’s believed to improve performance efficiency while in traffic as well.
Advancing in tech is Nissan’s new ProPILOT Assist, which includes a range of semi-autonomous functions, along with lots of passive and active safety gear.
And all this tech can be had for less than $30,000 in all 50 states.
Full details aren’t yet available. Such information is expected to surface in the near future.
The 2018 Nissan LEAF is scheduled to launch in early 2018.
– By: Chris Chin
2018 Nissan LEAF Photo Gallery

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Three Key Consumer Considerations With New Auto Technology

Three Key Consumer Considerations With New Auto Technology

Our taste for new innovations have compressed the adoption cycle and introduced fresh technology into a variety of industries, including automotive. By 2020, 10 million self-driving cars will be on the road. Think about it – that’s just three years away. So soon, in fact, that it has snuck up on many of us.
So, what else can we expect? Here are three things to keep an eye on.
More Integrated Tech
From in-car emergency services to fully-autonomous vehicles, there’s no mistaking the fact that we’re seeing technology’s increasing influence in the design, performance, and functionality of today’s vehicles. These heavily-integrated systems work together to enhance the overall driving experience. Normally, they work seamlessly, but if one system fails, another is likely affected. These kinds of issues can be overwhelming, but an awareness of integrated technology systems can keep fear to a minimum when the dashboard warning lights start flashing.
Difficulty & Repair Costs
Because of the complicated, interdependent nature of this new technology, auto technicians are now expected to be electricians and IT troubleshooters as well as mechanics. Those routine repairs previously handled at home by a “do-it-yourselfer” are now turning into fixes that can only be performed in the shop with additional diagnostic assistance. This level of complexity can increase parts pricing, service time, and total, out-of-pocket repair cost. Some of these potential new expenses can be mitigated with the help of a service contract provider. Be advised, though: not all service contract providers cover issues associated with new, advanced technology. Read the fine print to ensure your bases are covered.

Personal Data Sharing
More integrated technology also means a bigger push to link more data to your vehicle. Personal information – such as your home address, age, and driving patterns – can all be used to enhance the in-vehicle experience, as well as the overall driving experience. Automakers are using this data to improve vehicle features, make cars last longer, create custom apps, and so much more. And with the Internet of Things causing the convergence of nearly everything a consumer touches, the auto industry won’t be left behind.
It’s sometimes said “you are what you drive.” With all the technology, functionality, integration, and personalization available in vehicles today, this adage is not only truer than ever, but it also takes on a whole new meaning. New technology is changing the way we drive, and impacting the way we experience vehicle ownership more than ever. By keeping these three things in mind, consumers can prepare for the shifts they’re seeing in the auto industry, and be ready to embrace change as quickly as it comes.
Scott McLaren is the Chief Marketing Officer of Fortegra with a background in business and communications. He once flew the Saturn VUE Lightship and awarded a Saturn Sky to Travis Pastrana for the first double back flip in the history of the X Games.

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Letter From The UK: A Day With The Porsche GT3 RS

Letter From The UK: A Day With The Porsche GT3 RS Happiness is a state of mind. It can take many forms. It may be a first love, the thrill of a winter storm, a sunny beach at dawn or just waking up in the morning and finding you are still alive. A while back, this writer found yet another way to feel truly happy thanks to the Lizard Green car you see in the images; a vehicle that can take driving to new, dizzying heights and thrust the them into another dimension of time and space: the Porsche GT3 RS.
That’s why this writer is happy.
Happy because he recently spent a day behind the narrow leather steering wheel (with a Lizard Green colour-matched “top-dead-centre” marker, natch) of the Porsche GT3 RS. He would have been even happier had his beloved wife chosen to come along for the ride. Sadly, she declined, saying, “I’m not getting into that green thing with you driving.”
Sometimes, love can hurt a man.
Thus the loving caresses were saved for the GT3 and the ride paid me back in many ways. This car is superb and made extra special by the Porsche as featured being a one-off example; a Porsche employee was allowed to specify it to his precise instructions. Ultimately it is bound for Porsche’s heritage fleet. Happiness, then, is a 4.0-liter, naturally aspirated flat six, grumbling and barking and screaming behind you delivering plentiful, precise power delivery and an evocative soundtrack via an increased rev range.
Geoff Maxted’s Porsche GT3 RS outside the Porsche offices in Berkshire, England. Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.
No Ordinary Car
The Porsche 911 does not change over the years, it evolves. Just when you think it can’t get any better, it does. Somehow the Porsche team always seem to find that little extra something.
One of the few 911’s without turbocharging these days, the GT3 RS still lays down an explosive 513 bhp, whisking you from zero to 62 mph in just 3.2 seconds. That’s from a standing start of course; it’s the in-gear acceleration that really counts and it is majestic. From 50 mph to 75 takes just 1.8 seconds, flicking quickly through the sport-tuned, seven-speed PDK short-ratio gearbox. It happens faster than you can say it. It is necessary to remember that this car is, essentially, a racing car that just happens to be road-legal.
Remember the days of the wayward rear end of a 911? Oversteer at best and heading for a disaster in the trees at worst? Not anymore; at least not with this car. The Porsche GT3 RS utilises rear-wheel steering, specially re-calibrated for the job. It works extraordinarily well. Adaptive engine mounts, an electronically controlled locking differential with torque vectoring, and more aerodynamic trickery that you can imagine all work together in conjunction with the massive tyres to provide unimaginable grip.
In the dry, anyway.
Devil In The Details
The steering is enormously precise. You simply cannot miss your apex. Front end traction going into corners makes the car feel totally flat and stable; there’s nothing twitchy going on. On the way out the shove from the rear is immense, yet the car is so well setup it does not induce fear and apprehension.
Always, the GT3 is whispering in your ear like a little devil: “Go on. You can do this.”
Fortunately, although at extra cost (This is Porsche remember. Everything you want is an optional extra.), you can choose huge Porsche Ceramic Composite brakes. Since the car as tested costs around $180,000 the supplement won’t really cause a ripple in your bank balance and, seriously, you really do want these brakes. The modulation is superb; no grabbing or snatching or fading even under heavy pressure. This car can stop as quickly as it gets to a top speed of 193 mph.
Oh, and crucially there’s a button that turns the volume of the titanium twin sport exhaust up to VERY LOUD.
Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.
Inside The Cockpit
One of the most surprising aspects of this ultimate sports car is the ride. The Porsche GT3 RS is quite amiable when pottering about. Sure, it’s firm and the occupants can feel the bigger blemishes of the road surface, but on a smooth road all is serene. Everything is kept in order by an adjustable chassis and Porsche’s Active Suspension Management, the variable dampers being sport-tuned.
The fixed-back carbon-fibre seats, and the steering wheel, have ample adjustment although there are no rear seats in this version, the better to accommodate the scaffold-like roll bar, because, well, you just never know. There is an adequate storage pit for weekend luggage under the front hood as usual. If you can live with the noise long-term then this is a motor you could use every day.
The Bearable Lightness of Driving
Rather than supplementing with forced induction, Porsche have chosen to follow the mantra of the late, great Colin Chapman of Lotus fame who said, “First, add lightness.” It still holds true today. The bonnet, front wings, and engine compartment lid are all manufactured in carbon fiber. There are no interior door handles, just straps: that’s a few grams shaved off right there.
The weight saving continues throughout the vehicle but not at the expense of comfort and the model shown had all the technological modern conveniences you would expect in any one of those run-of-the-mill, ordinary prestige cars.
Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.
The Happiness
It is no exaggeration to say this was the best drive I have ever had. It is truly impressive how Porsche’s designers and engineers have fettled every aspect of the car, every component working in harmony with all others. It’s a symphony on wheels played by Iron Maiden. It’s a fairground ride fashioned by gods. It is, in truth, automotive Nirvana.
This is not the sort of car this writer usually drives; expensive cars, yes, fast cars certainly, but never something that could be taken to a track as is and immediately break records. The drive was sublime.
I never once felt out of my depth and the throttle responds gently to the lightest of pressure which means none of those sudden, panicky “hurtling forward” experiences.
The Awesomeness
After spending some time getting used to the car and how it responded to inputs, the opportunity finally occurred to properly put the boot in. Warp speed: See traffic disappear in the rearview mirror; see hedgerows blur and the road rush toward you. Catch brief glimpses of pale faces as you flash past other cars, suddenly speeding way above the national limit, accidentally and briefly, obviously.
It was an experience that will live on in my motoring memory.
Being a reserved and distinguished Englishman who wears a Panama hat I am not given to exclaimed, excited verbal outbursts or automotive hyperbole, so deploying the word “awesome” is not usually in my lexicon, but as the Porsche GT3 RS is the finest driver’s car ever made, I will make an exception.
Awesome!
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 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid: A Mini Starfleet Shuttle

2019 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid: A Mini Starfleet Shuttle The 2019 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid is sitting in showrooms as you read this, and although the term “sport” rankles, the addition of 31 ponies in the horsepower column and a nearly 37 percent higher city fuel economy rating does make it worth considering. Of course it’s loaded with enough tech and safety features to feel like a Starfleet shuttle and, unfortunately, has a price to match.
Well, okay, it starts at $53,795, which isn’t that bad, so it’s only an unfortunate price if you have a tendency to covet sports cars in that price range (like me).
Performance Layout
The hybrid drivetrain in the new MDX is a variation of the hybrid drive system found in the latest NSX, which is a good idea. The foundation is a 3.0-liter, i-VTEC V6 engine coupled to a three-motor Sport Hybrid Super Handling-All Wheel Drive system. Super Handling-All Wheel Drive is Acura’s (nee Honda’s) trademark for their four wheel drive layout, and although it’s gruesomely cloying, we’re going to have to get used to it.
Photo: Honda North America.
How It Works
The MDX’s electric SH-AWD system operates independently of the gasoline engine. There are two rear-mounted electric motors that direct torque to the rear wheels. When you’re cornering, the system delivers positive torque to the outside rear wheel, to aid with turn-in and grip. Acura’s system simultaneously applies regenerative braking to the inside rear wheel to further enhance this.
The entire system output of the drivetrain adds up to 321 peak horsepower and 289 lb-ft. of torque, impressive, and, even more impressively, it adds up to a combined fuel economy rating of 27 mpg. I say that’s impressive because this SUV has to be on the porky side (Acura gives no weight figures).
The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is standard and is closely related to the NSX’s nine-speed DCT. The MDX’s 7DCT can operate automatically or manually via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Photo: Honda North America.
Safety & Security
Naturally, since this is every inch the modern Japanese SUV, the 2019 MDX includes the AcuraWatch suite of advanced safety technologies: Collision Mitigation Braking System with Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning.
There’s also Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control, Blind Spot Information, and a Rear Cross Traffic Monitor.
And if all that is still not enough to keep you out of trouble, Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure should keep you safer than houses in the event of a big thump.
Photo: Honda North America.
Extra Stuff
Besides all the safety and hybrid frosting on this Acura’s cake, there’s some nips and tucks, bits and bobs to make the new MDX Sport Hybrid stand out from its past brethren. There is high-contrast seat and door panel stitching, which seems to be a growing fashion trend these days. There is a new interior wood treatment and both the driver and front passenger seats get four-way power lumbar control.
New exterior colors are also available.
Pricing
Like I said, the 2019 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid starts at $53,795. That’s for the “base” model, dubbed the Technology Package. The top of the line MDX Sport Hybrid is called the Advance Package, and that one starts at $60,545. No, nether of those prices is exactly bargain basement, but you do get a lot of stuff – tech, drivetrain and safety – for your cash.
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 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid Gallery

Photos & Source: Honda North America.

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2018 Lexus ES 300h Review

2018 Lexus ES 300h Review There are some cars that are ideal for those business trips and meetings, and the 2018 Lexus ES 300h is one of the best. The Lexus ES falls into the luxury class and it offers the amenities both owner and client will appreciate. Over the weekend, we test drove the 2018 Lexus ES 300h sedan, which came equipped with a plethora of options to make life a whole lot more comfortable.
What’s New For 2018
The Lexus ES 300h receives no major changes for 2018, although some tweaks are expected for 2019.
Features & Options
The 2018 Lexus ES 300h comes standard with 17-inch, five-spoke wheels, LED lighting, a sunroof, heated mirrors, keyless entry and ignition, adaptive cruise control, a forward collision warning system with automatic braking, and lane departure warning and mitigation. Also standard are dual-zone automatic climate controls, eight-way power front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a rearview camera.
On the infotainment front, the ES 300h comes with a driver information display, an eight-inch central display screen, Siri Eyes Free (iPhone voice control integration), and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, USB port, and satellite and HD radio.
The Navigation package ($2,615) added the mouselike Remote Touch interface, navigation, voice controls, a second USB port, and the Enform suite of smartphone-connected apps and concierge services. A 15-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system is also included.
The Ultra Luxury package ($3,000) included heated and ventilated front seats, a driver seat-cushion extender, driver and passenger-seat memory settings, upgraded leather upholstery, power door sunshades, and ambient lighting. Total MSRP including destination: $51,129.

Interior Highlights
Stepping into the ES 300h reveals a comfortable cabin with lots of leather and wood. It’s a great place to escape the noisy outside world. Just crank up the premium audio system and the world seems like a much nicer place. It’s easy to be pampered with the heated and cooled seats, heated steering wheel, and 10-way power driver’s seat.
The power trunk closer is especially convenient for business owners who need the trunk to carry important papers or equipment. Just push the button and the trunk opens or latches to make life a little easier while on the move. Owners who use this ES 300h for hauling clients will have very happy customers.
There is ample room and plenty of comfort for rear passengers to enjoy the ride. If the sun gets too hot, just pull up the side window shades, and the driver can even raise the rear window shade with the touch of a button. The ES 300 cabin is extra quiet while driving, allowing conversations to be had with ease.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2018 Lexus ES 300h is powered by a 156 horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, along with electric motors and a 245-volt NiMH battery pack. Combined output is 200 horsepower. The combo sends power to the front wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
EPA fuel mileage estimates are 40/39 city/highway and 40 combined mpg.
Driving Dynamics
As we drove the 2018 Lexus ES 300h around town this weekend, we didn’t even notice it was a hybrid. The luxury sedan shifts seamlessly between electric and gasoline power. While driving through stop-and-go traffic in Denver, the Lexus ES 300h will run in electric-only mode. Gentler rates of zero to 25 mph can be achieved on battery power alone.
If you are late for an appointment, the zero to 60 time is just one second slower than the ES 350 gas. Plus, with the hybrid’s fuel stingy technology, you won’t have to spend an arm and a leg at the gas pump either.
Conclusion
Whether you use the 2018 Lexus ES 300h for business or pleasure, it’s a comfortable place take clients to lunch, or the family on an all day excursion. The cabin is spacious, especially for passengers seated in the back and there’s plenty of premium level options that will shout success to your clients. The ride quality is smooth and tranquil and passengers won’t be exhausted at the end of a long day on the road
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Lexus ES 300h Gallery

2018 Lexus ES 300h Official Site.
Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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Polestar 1 To Debut During Monterey Car Week

Polestar 1 To Debut During Monterey Car Week We’ll finally get to see Volvo’s Polestar higher performance electric vehicle at this month’s Monterey Vintage festival. That’s as good a place as any: there’s tons of cool cars around (a good way to put your new vehicle in context) there’s tons of rich people around (a good way to reel in potential sales) and there’s tons of press people there (lots of free advertising), but the folks at Polestar are going a bit over the top.
Waxing Poetics
Or, at least they are going a bit over the top with their marketing copy. They talk about the upcoming Polestar (unimaginatively named Polestar 1) in the third person:
“Polestar is the new electric performance brand from the Volvo Car Group. Polestar will enjoy specific technological and engineering synergies with Volvo Cars and benefit from significant economies of scale as a result of its connection to Volvo Cars. . . . Polestar begins this new era with the Polestar 1.”
Sheesh, I have expected them to say: “Polestar! Makes hundreds of julienne fries in just seconds! Polestar! Love taker, as well as love giver! Polestar! You cannot deny it!” C’mon guys, is this a car, or is this Hannibal crossing the Alps?
Polestar Pebble Beach preview. Photo: Polestar.
Ready & Waiting
Well, we’ll get to cut through all the marketing hype on the 26th when the Polestar 1 will be set among a lot of glittering jewels on the Concept Lawn at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Polestar says what we’ll be seeing is the production-ready version of the Polestar 1, so this is what we’ll see in the showrooms and on the streets.
Of course rolling it out during Monterey Car Week is pretty much a gimme, and including it at the famous Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is a nice move, since it positions the Polestar 1 as a future classic. There will also be a full-on Polestar pavilion on Peter Hay Hill at Pebble Beach and the Polestar 1 will also show up at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering on Friday, August 24th, an event that sees some of the world’s rarest cars shown at the Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel Valley.
No word yet on whether or not the guy that came up with the title “The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering” will get hunted down with dogs and beaten with saps for being an excruciatingly pretentious twit.
Photo: Polestar.
Gearhead Paradise
The Polestar 1 will also be seen throughout the Monterey Bay area, so non-gearhead/Concours d’Elegance types can view it too. It goes both ways though, and the powers that be at Pebble selected Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath as an honorary judge in the world-famous Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. So that could make for some interesting discussions.
If you’re going to be down on the gorgeous Monterey Peninsula for the vintage races, The Quail, Concorso Italiano, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance etcetera (and you really should, it’s gearhead paradise) you’ll see Volvo’s take on what they think Tesla should be 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

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Are You The Next Great Fiat Hoonigan Driver?

Are You The Next Great Fiat Hoonigan Driver? If you’re in the racing business, finding the hottest of hot shoes is an ongoing process. You are always keeping your eye out for the next great talent to come along. Or, if you want to be more proactive, you can more or less grow drivers the way baseball players are made using the farm system.
This second option is just what Fiat is up to.
Name Game
Specifically, it’s FIAT (which is in all caps, cause that stands for Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino, not cause I’m shouting at you) and Hoonigan. And Hoonigan is just one word now, it’s not “Team” Hoonigan, or Hoonigan “Heavy Industries” or something like that, no, just Hoonigan. You know, sort of like Kanye or Cher or Bono, something mononymic and irritating and artlessly annoying.
Hoonigan is that racing outfit started and run by Ken Block that competes in the World Rally Championship, Global RallyCross Championship, FIA World Rallycross Championship and Rally America, but is best known for Block’s gymkhana videos of him sliding a rally car around on deserted streets. It’s not only what these guys are best known for, it’s what they’re best at doing. All of their entries in actual, real racing result in mid-pack finishes at best, and embarrassing crashes more often than not.
But – and this is the important part – the kids love it. And since if you were to ask your average occupier of the coveted 15-to-34 age demographic who, oh, Sebastien Loeb is, you’d get a blank stare, but mention Block, and you get something starting with, “Brah! Ken Block is TOtally … ” which is just what Fiat wants: young eyeballs coveting their products.
Fiat 500 Abarth. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Celebrity Appeal
To that end, Fiat and Hoonigan are teaming up to find the next great driver/Hoonigan personality with this year’s competition. Yes, “driver/Hoonigan personality.” I’ll let my unbridled disdain slide for the moment on that phrase. The people they suss out will be put through a number of driving challenges in various Fiat models. They start with the 500 Abarth (fun), go through the 124 Spider Abarth (even more fun), and ultimately end up in a 124 Abarth Rally Car (the funnest of all!).
Figuring out who the finalists will be is down to a bunch of “celebrity drivers and team captains, including Rhys Millen.” Besides that horrid back of the hand to Millen – a racer who should need no introduction – I’m guessing the celebrity drivers will lean more on the celebrity side than on the driver part, but who can tell at this point.
The winner will be announced this coming September and you can follow the competition as it happens on Fiat and Hoonigan’s social channels (clicks! likes! eyeballs! dollar bills for Zuckerberg, Brin, Page et al).
Hoonigans Wanted
I know what you’re thinking. You’re saying to yourself, “Hey, I got some righteous tats and I like, totally kill on Instagram, and now that I think about it, my last three posts have totally been trending. Maybe being a race car driver would be cool. Hey, maybe I could be like that guy, Lewis Kardashian or Kim Hamilton or whatever his name is. Yeah, race car driver . . . I like the sound of that, brah!”
If that’s you, then Fiat and Hoonigan would love to hear from you. Drivers who feel their skills are worthy can submit a video explaining why they should be chosen for the challenge series.
And, keeping with the fine, age-old tradition of racing, you can even buy your way in. If you go out and buy yourself a 2018 Fiat 500 Abarth or a 124 Spider Abarth, included with the purchase is the opportunity for you to attend an Abarth Driving Experience at no additional charge. Fiat and Hoonigan are sure to notice you there.
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
Photo & Source: Fiat Brand North America.

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2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF: The Bruno Mars of Sports Cars

2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF: The Bruno Mars of Sports Cars Mazda has finally gotten around to telling us what the price will be for the latest MX-5 Miata RF. They’ve been doing a bit of a striptease with this for a while; a bit of curve here, a scent of a power band over there, but now they’ve finally gotten off the dime and told us, financially speaking, what’s what for the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF.
Bottom line: Not all that bad.
One Suave Targa
The Miata RF, for those of you that don’t know, is the power retractable hard top version of the fourth-gen Miata. Wait, it’s not exactly that. It’s not a full-blown retractable hard top, it’s more like a retractable targa top. The B-pillar, flying buttresses and the tumblehome stay up, and the center section of the roof magically disappears somewhere.
This would have made the purists out there rather upset except for the fact that the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is a particularly handsome little guy. Think of it as the Bruno Mars of sports cars. No the top doesn’t go all the way down, but that 10,000 watts of charisma makes you overlook a lot of “faults.”
2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF. Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
Club Mazda
The 2019 RF comes in two basic flavors, Touring and Club, but Mazda listened to us, the gearheads, and will now offer a new GT-S Package for the MX-5 Grand Touring. This means you get a six-speed manual transmission, a front shock tower brace, a limited-slip rear differential, and Bilstein dampers. The GT-S Package RFs will also come with a hand-painted black roof that was previously found only on the 2017 MX-5 RF Launch Edition.
The MX-5 Club offers a harder-edged alternative to the MX-5 Grand Touring. The MX-5 Club comes with standard Bilstein dampers, that shock tower brace, and limited-slip rear differential in models that are equipped with the manual transmission. Other niceties include heated cloth seats with red contrast stitching, body-color interior trim, Metallic Black 17-inch wheels, front air dam, rear lip spoilers, and a nine-speaker Bose audio system.
Package Power
The MX-5 Club SKYACTIV-MT (MT = manual tranny) also has the optional Brembo/BBS/Recaro Package with front Brembo rotors and red calipers, 17-inch dark gunmetal BBS forged alloy wheels, side sill extensions, a rear bumper skirt, and heated leather-upholstered seats. This is the one you want.
If you tick the option box for the i-ACTIVSENSE Club Package, then that will come with Smart City Brake Support and Lane-Departure Warning.
Photo: Mazda North American Operations.
Engine & Transmission
Like all the other Miatas for 2019, the RFs come standard with the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine, cranking out 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft. of torque, an increase of 26 horsepower and 3 lb-ft. of torque. And, thanks to a slew of upgrades to the internals including lighter pistons and rods and a larger throttle, the latest MX-5 engine produces more torque throughout its rev range and you get to enjoy a 700 rpm higher redline.
That new engine comes with either a standard SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission or an available six-speed automatic with paddle shifters and Sport mode.
Pricing & Availability
Oh yeah, right, the price. Sorry. The bottom line is this: Right around $35K out the door and with the options you want. Yes, that is noticeably more than a non-RF Miata, but this is, after all, the top-of-the-line. Here’s a handy chart showing how the prices and options breakdown for the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF, which is available 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
Model/Package
MX-5 RF
MX-5 Grand Touring 6MT
$33,335
• GT-S Package (6MT only)
$750
MX-5 Grand Touring 6AT
$34,410
Auburn Nappa Leather (MX-5 Grand Touring only)
$300
MX-5 Club 6MT
$32,345
• Brembo/BBS Package
$3,770
• Brembo/BBS/Recaro Package
$4,670
MX-5 Club 6AT
$32,945
• Club i-ACTIVSENSE Package*
$450
*Not available with Brembo/BBS Package or Brembo/BBS/Recaro Package
Premium Exterior Colors:
Soul Red Crystal
$595
Machine Gray Metallic
$300
Snowflake White Pearl Mica
$200
Photos & Source: Mazda North American Operations.

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