Automotive

2019 Audi A7: The Sportback With Two Turbos & 900 Ambient Lights

2019 Audi A7: The Sportback With Two Turbos & 900 Ambient Lights The 2019 Audi A7 is loaded and that’s putting it modestly. Even the slightest glance at this sportback is hardly brief. Audi throws around the latest automotive buzz words: precision, simplicity, and functionality among others. Toss in phrases like “award-winning” and “lighting innovations” and it’s either a hard-sellers’ wet dream or one tremendous car.
Benefit of the doubt says tremendous car. Is it?
What makes the 2019 Audi A7 worth more than a passing glance?
Power & Performance
Driver’s who like meat on the bones will appreciate the new 3.0-liter TFSI V6 engine. Gone is the belt-driven supercharger in favor of a twin-scroll turbocharger. As a result, the 2019 Audi A7 blasts out 355 horsepower, 369 lb-ft. of torque (1,370-4,500 rpm), and hits 60 in 5.2 seconds. The new valvelift system and four individual drive modes don’t hurt either.
Audi’s evergreen quattro all-wheel drive is in the mix with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic.
The Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle system is stored under the A7’s rear cargo floor. On-board powertrain software uses route data and information from the vehicle’s sensors and forward-facing camera to determine the system’s output level. Power is supplied from the 10Ah battery to a belt alternator starter, while a conventional pinion starter handles cold starts only.
Chassis & Suspension
While the steering-rack’s placement provides better handling, a lighter front five-link suspension is employed for a more comfortable ride. A 20 mm lower Sport Suspension is available for Premium Plus and Prestige models.
19-inch, 10-Y-spoke wheels with all-season tires are standard, contrasting the optional 20-inch five-double-V-spoke silver wheels. Prestige models offer available 21-inch, five-V-spoke-star design (gray polished) wheels with summer tires.
Lighting Treatments
When Audi says “lighting innovations” they mean it. Two other lighting arrays are available for the new A7 aside from the standard LED headlights/daytime running lights combo. Premium Plus models receive HD Matrix-design LED headlights/daytime running lights and dynamic front turn indicators. Prestige models have the same but with Audi’s laser light function, denoted by a blue X in the lower portion of the headlight.
Automatically controlled at 43.5 mph, Audi says laser lights are 30 percent more energy efficient than standard LEDs.
Up front, the narrow headlights extend from the wider and lower Singleframe grille. The twelve adjacent lighting segments of the HD Matrix-design headlights, separated by narrow spaces, mimic the binary digits 0 and 1. Inside, an available ambient lighting package provides over 900 color combinations because why not!
2019 Audi A7 in Triton Blue paint. Photo: Audi of America, Inc.
Tech Treatments
The MMI touch response system replaces the rotary dial and the conventional buttons from prior models. Haptic and acoustic feedback lets drivers hear and feel a “click” when triggering a function. The upper 10.1-inch display (8.8-inch on Premium models) controls the infotainment, while the lower, 8.6-inch screen displays climate, comfort, and convenience commands. MMI stores up to 32 “shortcuts” for easier access to the most-used items.
MMI Touch responds either by using an integrated smartphone-style keypad, handwriting, or voice commands. With the latter, drivers speak requests like “where is the closest coffee shop” to which the A7 responds.
The 2019 Audi A7 is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, using the vehicle’s antenna to charge the driver’s phone inductively. Audi’s virtual cockpit with Google Earth imagery and a full-color heads-up display are available.
Three-zone automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, and heated eight-way power front seats are standard.
Safety & Security
The 2019 Audi A7 offers a comprehensive suite of standard and available safety systems, each benefiting from a zFAS central controller. This system obtains information from up to 24 different sensors, therefore creating a digital picture of the A7’s environment to better assist individual safety features.
S Line Package
Dress up for the ball with this available package. Styling details include a titanium-black diffuser insert, illuminated door sills and fender badge, and the Sport Suspension. Airflow to the radiators and around the wheels improves due to the front bumper’s larger air inlets.
Pricing & Availability
Premium models begin at $68,995, Premium Plus at $73,395, and Prestige at $77,295 (including destination charges). Expect the 2019 Audi A7 this fall. Two turbos and 900 ambient lights later, seems like we have one solid Sportback on our hands.
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: Audi of America, Inc.

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Ford Enters New “Territory” In Chinese Market

Ford Enters New “Territory” In Chinese Market China, now the world’s largest automotive market, is a goldmine for ambitious manufacturers. As “tier 1” cities like Beijing and Shanghai implement license plate restrictions to mitigate congestion, demand is rising in the country’s smaller cities. Since these cities are less likely to have such restrictions, it may explain the rising demand.
But what exactly are Chinese consumers wanting in their next automobile?
By The Numbers
Registered vehicles in Chinese cities with no license plate restrictions is expected to jump to about 23.7 million in 2020, up from 10.8 million in 2010. By contrast, registrations in restricted cities is expected to fall to 1.6 million in 2019, from a peak of 2.2 million in 2010. The data is according to IHS Markit’s latest China Provincial Forecast.
And like in the United States, SUVs are all the rage.
Last year, the McKinsey Center for Future Mobility noted that China’s midsize SUV segment experienced an annual growth rate of 38 percent between 2012 and 2016. As a result, Chinese manufacturers are packing the market with SUVs, although one Michigan-based automaker wants a bigger piece of the pie.
Joint Collaboration
Meet the Ford Territory, an entry-level, midsize SUV, developed in partnership with Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC).
“The Territory is a breakthrough for Ford in China in terms of our ability to successfully compete with Chinese automakers for millions of customers that we do not currently serve,” explained Peter Fleet, President, Asia Pacific and Chairman & CEO, Ford China. “Territory is a key proof point for how we will grow in China.”
Officials say the collaboration combines JMC’s market insights with Ford’s expertise in vehicle design, engineering, and manufacturing. Ford’s testing centers in Nanjing, China and Melbourne, Australia helped tune the suspension and reduce NVH levels.
“We brought Territory to market with speed, high quality, and cost efficiency,” Fleet said.
Ford Territory interior layout. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Performance & Technology
A gasoline engine, 48V mild hybrid with Miller-Cycle technology, or a plug-in hybrid are among the powertrain options for the Ford Territory. Ford says each will be “efficient” but provide no details on how said efficiency is achieved. Based on the latest data, it seems hybrid powertrains will be the top sellers.
Tech features include a Mandarin voice-command function and FordPass Connect with embedded modem.
Family Affair
The Ford Territory joins the EcoSport, Kuga, Edge, Explorer, and Everest in the automaker’s SUV lineup. The vehicle is part of Ford’s China 2025 plan to launch over 50 new vehicles in the country by then. JMC’s Xiao Lan plant is responsible for production; expect the Ford Territory on sale early next year.
“It will be affordable for young families and new buyers across China, not just the coastal mega-cities,” Fleet added.
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: Ford Motor Company.

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Forget Paper Towels: Here’s How To Clean Your Car With a Power Tool

Forget Paper Towels: Here’s How To Clean Your Car With a Power Tool Recently, I received a tool from Dremel called the Versa Power Cleaner as part of their #ConquerTheCleanup campaign. The Versa is a handheld, high-speed cleaning device that can be used with spray, foam, gel, or liquid cleaners. Enthusiasts who refer to their car as “my baby” will appreciate the Versa Power Cleaner and wonder how they ever lived without one.
For example, it saves your wrists when it comes to polishing wheels and tires.
But it has a number of uses around the homestead as I found out: bathroom soap scum? Check. Grease on the backyard grill? Check. Dirty patio furniture after being in storage all winter? Check?
As part of the #ConquerTheCleanup campaign, I put the Dremel Versa Power Cleaner to the test: first on my vehicle and second in my apartment.
Disclosure: This article is sponsored by Dremel. All views and opinions expressed here are my own. Check out our advertising guidelines to see why we’d never steer you wrong.
Handy & Dandy
When I think of innovation and technology, I always think broadly. Cars, airplanes, artificial intelligence, and other big tech concepts come to mind. But this little Dremel is a pretty marvelous piece of engineering and innovation. It can do just about anything and it’s cordless. The Dremel Versa Power Cleaner offers 2,200 rpm of rechargeable power and four interchangeable cleaning pads.
White Foam Eraser Pad: Use this multi-purpose pad for harder surfaces like a counter top, glass, baseboards, and non-stainless steel appliances. This pad has micro-abrasive characteristics so using it on a softer surface could result in scratches – for example, it’s not recommended for wood, copper or stainless steel.
Brown Abrasive Heavy-Duty Pad: This pad is for that long-embedded grime and grit. It can handle a number of tough metal items from lawn furniture to uncoated cookware.
Blue Microfiber Non-Scratch Pad: This pad is the “go-to” for most things around the house. Pots, pans, kitchen appliances, outdoor tools and equipment – you name it, this pad can do it.
Black Nylon Bristle Brush: Like the brown pad, this is for those heavier jobs. For car enthusiasts, this is the attachment to use when cleaning tires. For anything that would take an excessive amount of elbow grease, this brush is the ticket.
Some (Actually Hardly Any) Assembly Required
Assembling the Dremel Versa Power Cleaner is really easy, and the individual pads attach with what appears to be very durable Velcro. The “backing pad” holds the cleaning pad in place, which attaches in just a few seconds to the Versa itself.
The nicest accessory is the rubber splash guard, which has two positions: extended and retracted. When extended, the splash guard will keep the spreading and spraying of water and/or cleaning solution to a minimum. If there is an area that is harder to reach, just pull the splash guard up to retract it. If necessary, the splash guard can be removed entirely.
Before going to work, I fully charged my Dremel Versa Power Cleaner. Dremel recommends having it charged each time before using it, and advises not to run it while plugged in.
I find it easier to clean the exterior of my vehicle versus the interior – meaning I tend to neglect the interior and, as a result, it keeps getting worse. By this point, paper towels and normal rags won’t do the trick.
The Versa vs. Those Dirty Interior Panels
I have plenty of applicator pads and soft towels for the exterior of my vehicle, but what I lack is a way to make my interior shine like the exterior. This is where the Dremel Versa Power Cleaner really “shines” and where I found it to be the most useful.
For example, the lower panels directly inside my vehicle get hit with my shoes (and my passenger’s shoes) during exit and entry. It doesn’t take long for that part of the interior to get really dirty, especially during the series of rain storms we have experienced in Detroit recently.
Try an experiment: from the driver’s seat, look down and to the left. Just above the floor mats is an entire section of your interior that is likely to be covered with dirt and grime. Those areas can be neglected, especially if you quickly run your car through the wash because you don’t have time.
As you can see from the gallery below, my lower interior panels were looking pretty gross (top photos) but the Dremel Versa made short work of the weather stains and blemishes (bottom photos).

Locked & Loaded
With the White Foam Eraser Pad and a few sprays of traditional interior cleaner, I was able to nix the excess dirt and grime that builds up on those lower interior panels in a hurry. Normally, I would have to scrub with a towel but it is much easier letting the Versa do the work – I just guided it up and around the curves of the panel. From there, I did the passenger side interior panels, dashboard, and center console.
On my driver’s side door panel, I had a particular spot of dirt (who knows how it got there) too ingrained for regular towels. Like I did with the lower panels, I hit the area with a few spays of interior cleaner and simply guided the Dremel tool over the surface. It easily removed the dirt stain within a few seconds.
The Dremel Versa Power Cleaner works well on harder, plastic surfaces. In this case, with the White Foam Eraser Pad, I was able to remove a stubborn spot of dirt on my door panel. However, say you spill coffee or soda on your center console? This handy tool would make short order of any nasty stains left over from a cold brew.

The Versa vs. The Stovetop
After my vehicle’s interior, I decided to tackle another area I often overlook: my stove. I figured what else could I power-buff to shininess that I have been ignoring? My nasty stove immediately popped into my head.
The burners on my stove have (or should say had) these caked-on brownish rings around them. At this point, they are so far into the surface that scrubbing by hand is honestly a waste of time. That won’t work. And so the extent of my stove cleaning is to simply run a soapy rag over it, removing any immediate residue and calling it a day.
I started with the Blue Microfiber Non-Scratch Pad which removed about 70 percent of the grit. But my stove proved harder than my vehicle, so to eliminate the rest of the grime, I actually switched to the Brown Abrasive Heavy-Duty Pad. Sometimes, you have to bring out the heavy equipment.
If there was ever a cleanup for the Dremel Versa Power Cleaner to conquer, my stove was it. Nasty!
Miracle Worker
With both pads, I went slowly with the Dremel Versa Power Cleaner, even holding it over the troublesome spots for a moment to really let the pad work. The slower you go, the more effective it is on something like a neglected stove. I used Bar Keeper’s Friend but regardless of what cleaning solution you pick, definitely use the splash guard in the extended position. Otherwise, you will launch the solution across your kitchen.
I wiped the residue off my stove and tossed the Versa back on the charger. Total time to clean my stove: five minutes. And I don’t think it was even this clean when I moved in.

Dremel Versa Power Cleaner Uses & Pad Suggestions:
Grill Exterior (Non-Scratch)
Car Wheel Hub (Bristle Brush)
Stove and Countertops (Eraser)
Inside the Oven (Non-Scratch)
Pots/Pans (Heavy Duty) (Eraser)
Shower Glass Door and Tubs (Eraser)
Shower Tile Grout and Sink Faucets (Bristle Brush)
Metal Patio Furniture – Rust Removal (Heavy Duty)
Pricing & Availability
The Dremel Versa can be purchased at Home Depot, Lowes, Menards or on Amazon for an MSRP of $49.97. More information on the Versa Power Cleaner is available through Dremel’s website.
Point of Consideration
When fully charged, the Dremel Versa Power Cleaner runs for about 15 to 20 minutes, which should be long enough to do most jobs. Extended use will require additional charging time. A full charge, according to the owner’s manual, takes about two hours.
Fun Fact
To save your sense of fashion, it can even shine your shoes. Use the Eraser pad.
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.

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Aventador S Roadster: The New, Top Chop Lambo

Aventador S Roadster: The New, Top Chop Lambo

The new Lamborghini Aventador S Roadster is here, but it is not really a roadster, nor is it a convertible. It’s really a targa version of the Aventador, but I’m not going to quibble about that and start getting all pedantic about correct automotive terminology. With a car like the Aventador S Roadster, who cares about stuff like that? The Aventador S Roadster, shoot any Lamborghini really, is the automotive equivalent of a freshman eight-and-a-half beers into his first fraternity kegger; the results are going to be spectacular if not necessarily positive.
Strong Like Bull
The Aventador S Roadster is, 99% of the time, just like a “normal” Aventador S. The only real difference is the removable roof panel that will allow the wind to mess your hair up like you’re standing outside in a hurricane. This, for some people, actually sounds like a good thing and, on most days, I am one of them.
The Aventador S Roadster is, like the fighting bull it is named after, big, powerful, and nothing to be trifled with. Sure, sure, it has all those modern high tech niceties like traction control and four wheel steering and stuff like that, but you know – just know – that some rich kid with more money than sense or skill is going to uncork an Aventador S Roadster (probably within weeks of buying it) and wrap it around a tree.
How can I say this? How can I say all those computers upon computers and the even more computers along for the ride will not work? Simple answer: Physics. Let’s look at the numbers, shall we?
Improved vertical control comes from an updated pushrod suspension, new rear springs, and the Lamborghini Magneto-rheological Suspension (LMS) with revised kinematics for the new four-wheel steering. A real-time variable damping system optimizes wheel and body control. Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Numerical Factors
The Aventador S Roadster is a big girl. She’s just under 189 inches long overall, just under 80 inches wide, and tips the scales at 3,582 pounds dry weight with a 43 to 57 percent weight distribution. Add in a full 85 liters of fuel, 13 liters of oil, and your butt in the driver’s seat, and even those massive contact patches provided by the vast Pirelli meats (255/30/ZR20s up front and 355/25/ZR21 out the back) will, eventually, be overwhelmed by the laws of physics. Or, as Enzo Ferrari once said to a displeased customer who had just totaled his prancing horse, “being a Ferrari owner does not make you a Ferrari driver.”
That same ethos applies to the glorified tractors that bear Ferruccio’s name and are made at the behest of corporate overlords Audi, especially when you look at the other numbers, the real numbers, the numbers that count for the Aventador S Roadster.
Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Power & Performance
To wit: The engine. It’s a 6.5-liter lump of alloy and whirling parts that puts out 740 horsepower and 509 lb-ft. of torque. All that power that eventually hits the strada via the Pirellis runs through a Haldex gen IV electronically controlled 4WD system, and a 7-speed double dry plate gearbox with variable “shifting characteristics.” The drive modes are, get this, listed as STRADA, SPORT, CORSA, and the new EGO mode. Lambo says these modes influence “every aspect of the car’s behavior through management of traction, steering, and suspension.” The EGO mode (hey, at least they’re up front with their name!) permits the driver to set up their preferred criteria in each mode to suit their driving style. If you ask me, there should also be a mode that turns off all of the governors. Lambo could call it SUICIDIO mode. But they never listen to me, so this probably will never happen.
All this adds up to a beautifully flashy way to shuffle off this mortal coil. Top speed, for example, is listed at 217 mph. Lambo always mentions top speed first, because that is traditionally what is closest to their hearts. From a dead stop you’ll hit 62 mph in 3 seconds flat. In another 6 seconds, 9 seconds total, you’ll be seeing 124 mph. In 25 seconds from a dead stop, you’ll hit 186 mph. Braking is, thankfully just as prodigious. You can haul the Aventador S Roadster down to a complete stop from 62 mph in only 102 feet.
The TFT digital dashboard can be customized to the driver’s preferences and Apple CarPlay is standard. Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Open-Air Enjoyment
The Aventador S Roadster is all about that targa top though. The removable hardtop roof panels weigh less than six kg (about 13 pounds) and are convexly molded to ensure maximum cabin space for the occupants. It has that old Zagato double bubble feel to it. The hardtop roof panels are finished in matte black and are made of carbon fiber, naturally. There are options such as high gloss black, shiny visible carbon fiber, plus more color options using Lambo’s Ad Personam customization program. And I must sayt I love how they named the program in Latin.
The roof panels pop off quickly and are stored in the front trunk. There’s also a rear window that is electrically operated if you want more wind and more opera from that V12 plant sitting at your shoulder. That rear window can be closed while the roof panel is off to minimize cabin noise and airflow, but why would you want to do that?
The Lamborghini Aventador S Roadster gives you all this for a paltry $460,247.00. The first customers will take delivery in February; in the meantime, it will be displayed next week at the International Automobile Exhibition in Frankfurt, Germany.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias toward lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.

Photos & Source: Automobili Lamborghini.

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Bentley Continental GT: It’s Not A Sports Car, But It’s Still Fast

Bentley Continental GT: It’s Not A Sports Car, But It’s Still Fast

This is the all-new Bentley Continental GT. It is many things, but one thing it is definitely not, is a sports car. Yes, it is very fast. Yes, it can cover huge amounts of ground at high speed. Yes, it has NASA levels of technology packed within. But, this thing weighs more than a Sherman tank. No, Bentley doesn’t give weight figures, but I’m willing to bet this Bentley, like all Bentleys before it, tips the scales at least double what a real sports car should.
Red Carpet Treatment
No, the Bentley Continental GT will not be seen at an Autocross meet any time soon, although it might be entertaining if it were to. The Bentley Continental GT is not about stripped down, high performance at all costs. No, the Continental GT is all about getting you from, say, Madison Avenue out to your place in Montauk, and doing so quickly and quietly, while drowning you in wood and leather and luxury and high tech connectivity and more wood and leather.
Wait, what am I saying? How nouveau riche. Madison Avenue to Montauk, how gauche of me. More like from your place in Kensington up to Highclere.
Power & Performance
Yes, the Bentley Continental GT is fat and overstuffed with riches and tech, turning it into a rolling gentlemen’s club. But, somehow, it is also capable of getting up and moving fast. This third generation of the Continental GT, which the Anglo-German company refers to as the “definitive luxury Grand Tourer,” is motivated down The Strand thanks to an enhanced version of the company’s 6.0-liter W12 TSI twin-turbocharged engine. It delivers 626 horsepower and 664 lb-ft. of Sarsen pulling torque, good enough to make this hefty ride hit 60 mph in 3.6 seconds with a top speed of 207 mph. That W12 plant is mated to a dual-clutch, eight-speed transmission. This is the first application of that gearbox in a Bentley, and it makes for faster, more efficient gear changes.
Designed, developed, and handbuilt in Crewe, the W12 TSI engine is one of the most advanced in Bentley’s history. The unique “W” configuration means the engine is 24 percent shorter than a traditional V12. This helps weight distribution and increases cabin space. Bentley utilizes precise engine management technology that makes 300 million software calculations per second. Photo: Bentley Motors.
Chassis Implementation
The new Continental GT has, of course, gotten a new skin to cruise around in. And although it is modern and attractive (from some angles), it is, sadly I think, rather copycat and lacking in understatement (something 99 percent of Bentley owners value highly). The Conti GT oozes along on a new, technically innovative, adaptive chassis that uses Bentley’s 48-volt Dynamic Ride System. This new system controls ride comfort and lateral roll, “cushioning passengers from excessive movement as well as making the car feel effortlessly precise,” cause, you know, your butt’s worth a couple billion dollars, so you better give it more cushion.
The exterior was created using what Bentley calls a revolutionary technology, resulting in a lightweight, yet stiff, body structure. The engine is positioned further back in the chassis to improve weight distribution, of course, and results in “driver-focused, dynamic performance.”
Steering feel and suspension design was a focal point for Bentley. The Electric Power-Assisted Steering, with a variable rack ratio, improves feedback and isolates unwanted road disturbances for better overall handling. The air suspension uses three-chamber air springs which gives the Continental GT 60 percent more air volume in the softest setting than the previous model. Photo: Bentley Motors.

Interior Finishes
The new Bentley Continental GT is a four seater. No plebian bench seat in the back. Oh no. None of that for the Bentley buyer, thank you very much. And the new Conti has improved luggage capacity for, get this, “genuine real-world usability.” Gee, I wonder how many cinder blocks I could haul back from the hardware store in the thing? I’ll ask for a loaner from Bentley and let you know how that “genuine real-world usability” works out.
The interior, which Bentley redundantly calls a “luxurious cabin,” is saturated in features and details that quietly scream: “look at how much money you just spent!” There’s a new “diamond in diamond” leather design which one-ups that now-old diamond stitch pattern that Bentley popularized a short while back. Your choice of off the rack interior colors come from the “extensive portfolio of 15 colors across hides and carpets.” Seriously, the whole 4,000 word Bentley press release uses terms like that continually. The more I read, the more I find myself starting to agree with Cecil Rhodes and what should have been done with The Cape Colony.
The Bentley Continental GT offers a Bang & Olufsen 1,500 watt, 16-speaker system with illuminated speaker grilles. It benefits from the first automotive application of the BeoSonic system – a new way for tone setting with a one-touch user interface. Photo: Bentley Motors.
Laundry Lists
But, as Olde English as the new Continental GT is, it also has lots of that high tech stuff nestled within. There is an advanced, fully digital, driver-focused instrument panel and this thing they call the “Bentley Rotating Display.” The Bentley Rotating Display features a 12.3-inch touchscreen stored in a three-sided unit and, as the name implies, revolves the veneer to reveal the touchscreen and analogue dials.
Bentley goes on, at Silmarillion-like length about every last detail of the new Continental GT, but most of it is, again, very Silmarillion-like, and rather uninteresting; how they choose the carpets, the hand-finished twisted polished wheel finish, luxurious haptic finishes, Mulliner Bespoke buttock massagers, cut-crystal effect taillights, and more . . . so much, much more. Okay, one of those is a joke, but I’ll let you figure out which one, but reading through it becomes hard to tell whether Bentley is being serious or having a laugh with this stuff.
The Bentley Continental GT will make its global debut at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show starting on September 14th. No word on when it will reach showrooms or what it will cost. Probably those answers are “pretty soon” and “comparable to a yacht.”
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias toward lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.

Photos & Source: Bentley Motors.

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2018 Nissan Leaf Makes North American Debut

2018 Nissan Leaf Makes North American Debut

The 2018 Nissan Leaf was unveiled at a media event in Las Vegas yesterday (September 6th) at the Thomas & Mack Center. The Las Vegas appearance followed the vehicle’s global launch earlier in Tokyo, Japan. The 2018 Leaf underscores Nissan’s commitment to clean and efficient transportation.
“When we launched Leaf in 2010, it instantly became the most affordable, mass market EV in the world,” said José Muñoz, Chief Performance Officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. during the Las Vegas event. “We are not walking away from that proposition.”
Technology & Performance
The 2018 Nissan Leaf has an estimated 150 miles of range with the automaker’s latest segment innovations, including a more aerodynamic exterior, advanced driver assistance systems like ProPILOT Assist, and an e-Pedal feature for more efficient driving. In 2019, a high powered variant is expected with increased motor and battery capacity. Nissan is aiming for segment leadership by focusing on extensive testing and consumer interactions.
“This new Leaf is not just the latest symbol of Nissan’s global leadership in the EV segment,” Muñoz remarked. “It is the culmination of everything we’ve learned from more than two billion miles of real life, on-road driving and from the feedback of hundreds of thousands of owners around the world, particularly Leaf customers here in the U.S.”
Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Nissan Leaf will arrive at dealerships early next year with a starting MSRP under $30,000. That’s less than the current Leaf despite the 2018 variant offering more technology, range, and power. To date, Nissan has sold over 112,000 Leaf EVs in the United States and more than 283,000 globally, making it the world’s best-selling electric vehicle.
“We believe the new Leaf will be another game changer for Nissan in the U.S., just as the redesigned Rogue has been in the last year and a half, hitting the ‘sweet spot’ in the growing EV segment,” Muñoz added. “It takes everything we’ve learned from our loyal first-generation Leaf owners to the next level.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Photos & Source: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

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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

The post The all-new 2019 Nissan LEAF falls into place with a new design appeared first on egmCarTech.

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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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