“Old Crow” Mustang GT Takes Off At “The Gathering”

“Old Crow” Mustang GT Takes Off At “The Gathering” Ford and Roush Performance team for the “Old Crow” Mustang GT to salute military veterans. 
“Old Crow” takes its inspiration from the P-51 Mustang which saw combat during World War II.
The special Mustang hits the auction block during the 2019 AirVenture show in Wisconsin this week.
A custom Mustang GT, inspired by a P-51 Mustang fighter flown by triple ace Col. Bud Anderson of the U.S. Army Air Force, is about to hit the road. Ford and Roush Performance are behind this special Mustang GT, nicknamed “Old Crow.” The special Mustang was built to mark the 75th anniversary of the Allied invasion of Normandy. It’s just like Anderson’s P-51 Mustang (minus the six 50 cals): Good-looking, fast, and wonderfully overpowered.
One Crazy Ace
We better get this out of the way right now: Jack Roush is kinda nuts, especially when it comes to airplanes. He has had, what, two bad crashes, maybe three, as I recall. One of those should have killed him outright when he boomed into the middle of a lake, except one of the people living on the lake saw him and went out and rescued him. So, given Jack’s love of Fords, excessively powerful engines and planes (in that order), doing up a version of the latest Mustang, like a famous Mustang from World War II, makes complete sense.
Roush is also a longtime friend of Anderson’s.
The “Old Crow” Mustang GT Takes Flight
The one-of-a-kind Mustang (sadly, it will not even be a limited production model) will be auctioned at the Experimental Aircraft Association’s 2019 AirVenture show on Thursday July 25th in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. You do know about Oshkosh? Well, just in case you don’t, the one word answer is GO! You really have to check it out. It’s like Goodwood combined with Pebble Beach, combined with the vintage races at Laguna Seca, only for airplanes. They call it “The Gathering” and it’s the perfect venue for the “Old Crow” Mustang GT.
“This year’s design is especially fitting for the 75-year commemoration of D-Day and the special place we reserve for heroes like Col. Anderson and countless others who demonstrated unparalleled valor and sacrifice,” said Craig Metros, Ford Design Director. “It’s an annual highlight for many on the Ford design team to pay homage to our war heroes by creating a custom tribute vehicle to support the next generation of aviators.”
Auction proceeds benefit the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Aviation Foundation, which encourages younger and aspiring pilots.
The P-51 Mustang is a single seat, single engine fighter originally produced in 1940 by North American Aviation. The plane saw action in World War II and the Korean War, among other conflicts.
“Old Crow” Mustang GT: Power & Performance Specs
The “Old Crow” Mustang GT features a custom paint scheme and badging, replicating Col. Anderson’s iconic P-51 Mustang fighter plane. A Roush custom grille with a P-51 Mustang badge graces the front; the words “Old Crow” are painted on the hood, and a nice Eighth Air Force emblem adorns the decklid panel. Like the P-51 it emulates, the “Old Crow” Mustang GT is all about power and performance, thanks to a Ford and Roush Performance TVS R2650 supercharger. This helps to squeeze 710 horsepower and 610 lb-ft. of torque from the 5.0-liter V8 engine. There’s also a cold air induction system and X pipe from Roush Performance, plus a custom active exhaust system from Ford Performance.
The chassis gets a going over (thankfully) with Ford’s MagneRide damping system. All of that considerable horsepower and torque gets to the ground through a set of custom, 20-inch Roush wheels and 275/35R Continental ExtremeContact sport tires. In keeping with its namesake, aerodynamics were at the top of the list. There are Roush rear fascia aerofoils, a Ford Performance front racing spoiler; a rear spoiler from the 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500, slick custom heat extractors on the hood, and blue rainbow-tinted exhaust tips that emulate the P-51’s exhaust.
On the inside, “Old Crow” is far from the Spartan war machine of 70 plus years ago. It’s fully customized with an aircraft-inspired interior, featuring military-themed green leather and canvas along with a red shifter and door handles. “P-51” adorns the passenger-side dashboard. “Old Crow” even includes a Sparco four-point harness, as well as the nice performance touch of the aluminum rear seat-delete.
Col. Bud Anderson.
In Person & How To Bid
The “Old Crow” Mustang GT will be on display during the AirVenture show from now until the 18th. AirVenture attracts more than 600,000 aviation enthusiasts (e.g. propeller-heads) to Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin every year. That’s more than Woodstock, more than The Indy 500. Like I said, it’s a big deal. Those who wish to bid on “Old Crow” can call 920-426-6573, or email: gathering@EAA.org.
Also, in case you don’t know who Col. Bud Anderson is; he shot down more than 16 planes in Europe during World War II, flew 116 combat missions, including a six-hour mission on D-Day, was never hit by enemy fire (not even once) nor was he ever forced to withdraw from an aerial engagement. This added up to more than 25 decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, and Air Medal. Oh, and he was best friends with Chuck Yeager.
As a matter of fact, Mr. Right Stuff once described him as “the best pilot I ever saw.”
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz. 
Photos & Source: Experimental Aircraft Association, Ford Motor Company, Roush Performance.



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2019 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible Review: A New Breed of Luxury

2019 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible Review: A New Breed of Luxury 96Excellent 2019 BMW M850i xDrive ConvertibleOverall Impression Superb Performance.Numerous safety features.Lots of connectivity options.ProsEngine Power Ride & Handling Luxurious Interior ConsTiny Rear Seat The BMW 8 Series is back and it’s better than ever after a long hiatus from the 1990s. This luxury model gets plenty of performance, more power, and tons of new technology. This is a true driver’s car that offers superior on-road dynamics without sacrificing comfort, unlike many performance cars. With a zero to 60 time of 3.8 seconds, and the ability to drop the top in 15 seconds, the BMW M850i xDrive Convertible will satisfy driving enthusiasts.  
This week, we’ve been driving the new BMW M850i xDrive Convertible. 
BMW M850i xDrive Convertible: What’s New For 2019?
The BMW M850i xDrive is entirely new for the 2019 model year. It revives the 8 Series nameplate last seen in 1999. It comes in coupe and convertible body styles, depending on your preference. BMW focused on the strategic use of steel, aluminum, and magnesium throughout the body and suspension to help reduce the big car’s weight. The soft-top uses multiple layers of fabric to also reduce weight and keep unwanted road noise out. For extra style points, we recommend the optional M Carbon Exterior Package. It adds carbon fiber air intake bars, mirror caps, and a rear diffuser. 
Features & Options: The Laundry List 
The 2019 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible ($121,400) comes standard with 20-inch M wheels and adaptive LED/laser headlights; power-folding heated mirrors, a power trunk lid, soft-close doors, and automatic wipers; front and rear parking sensors, a sport exhaust, selectable drive modes; and finally, all-wheel steering and an automated parking system. Our convertible tester gave us a standard wind deflector and the optional neck warmers. A heads-up display and a 360-degree camera were also standard.  
Inside, there’s dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview and driver’s-side mirror, and a virtual instrument panel; heated and power-adjustable front seats with memory functions and ambient lighting. Standard tech treatments include Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay, run through a 10.25-inch touchscreen that displays navigation and the surround-view camera. Also on the tech front: a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless charging pad, and BMW Remote Services (emergency communications, remote controls, and concierge services).
Lastly, our M850i tester came with the upgraded Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system. Total MSRP including Destination: $131,395. By comparison, the 2019 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible starts at $122,395.  
2019 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible.
Related: An in-depth look at the 2020 BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe.
Features & Options: Safety & Security 
The number of driver assistance and other advanced safety systems is nearly endless. Standard features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams. Our tester included the optional Driving Assistant Professional package. One highlight is the Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, effective up to 130 mph. That same package also includes Lane Keeping Assistant with Active Side Collision Protection. 
Another top safety feature is the rollover protection system, which initiates if the on-board electronics sense impending danger. Two high-strength aluminum rollover bars (behind the rear headrests) extend via a pyrotechnic charge. BMW says this forms a “survival space” for occupants in the event of a rollover.
The Comfort Seating Package includes a remote start, ventilated front seats, heated front seat armrests, and a heated steering wheel.
Interior Highlights: Nice In Front, Cramped In Back 
After opening the long doors, we had to stoop quite a bit to get in, but once seated, this performance car’s interior will leave you feeling like you never want to leave. There is a long reach just to buckle up, but the heated and ventilated leather seats are as comfortable as it gets. They didn’t leave us tired after a long commute to Denver from the mountains. The seats come in Merino Individual leather with a luxurious accent stitching, and it’s hard to argue with how comfortable they are. 
The front seats are 20-way-adjustable and the telescoping steering column offers plenty of travel for all drivers to find the perfect position. You will feel snug in the wrap-around cockpit without being confined, and there’s plenty of lateral space for your arms. Top up or down, this cabin is a pleasant place to spend time unless you are in the back seat. Rear-seat space is limited to just smaller cargo, or maybe an occasional ride for the kids. Just gaining access to the rear requires shimmying through a narrow passage and it’s not an easy task. And after you get out, you could need a chiropractor for a back adjustment.  
2019 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible interior layout.
Interior Highlights: Plenty of Connectivity 
Unlike some luxury cars, the controls are fairly intuitive and easy-to-use, for younger generations that is. We tried the gesture controls for just the basic audio functions, but we aren’t tech savvy enough to use them. We had trouble even adjusting the radio volume. Over time, you can get used to them, and they may even become your preferred way to adjust the all the controls. Nevertheless, with this new 8 Series, connectivity is key. In-vehicle apps include news, weather, and an online search feature. BMW’s Navigation Professional system provides a multimedia system with 20 GB of memory and two USB ports. 
Related: 10 convertibles that will make your summer more enjoyable.
BMW M850i xDrive Convertible: Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2019 BMW M850i xDrive features a turbocharged, 4.4-liter V8 producing a healthy 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft. of torque. Two twin-scroll turbochargers with charge air cooling are positioned within the “V” of the cylinder banks. For the return of the 8 Series, BMW gave the engine’s vital systems, like the camshaft timing and fuel injectors, a complete overhaul. The V8 comes mated to an eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic, sending power to all four wheels.
EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 17/26 city/highway and 20 combined mpg. The transmission and navigation system work together through something BMW calls “intelligent networking” to aid fuel economy. Punch in a destination and the transmission adjusts its shift points for the best fuel economy based on the planned route.  
The 2019 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible features a turbocharged, 4.4-liter V8 producing a healthy 523 horsepower.
Driving Dynamics: Off The Charts 
At this price point we expected big things from this luxury performance car and we were not disappointed. We would even go farther and say the M850i exceeded our expectations after a week behind the wheel. We pushed a button on the console to lower the top, and drove up a curvy canyon road west of Denver one afternoon.
The M850i inspires confidence and it’s easy to drive in a manner worthy of its creator. From the commute down the mountain into Denver, to pushing the M850i hard to its upper limits around the curves, this performance car blows the top off the fun-to-drive meter. The V8’s throaty performance exhaust note just begs you to push it harder. And we did.  
Driving Dynamics: Impressive Performance 
On our daily commute through the mountains around Evergreen, the M850i felt sure-footed with its all-wheel drive platform. We dropped the gearbox into Sport and Sport+ modes and pushed around the tighter corners. In these modes, the ride gets stiffer but the Adaptive M suspension with its electronically-controlled dampers makes quick work of the corners. Despite the M850i Convertible being a bigger car, body roll was hardly noticeable.  
On the open highway we dialed it back to Comfort mode. The adaptive dampers soften to absorb bumps and ruts for a ride better than you’ll experience in most luxury sport coupes. BMW’s xDrive system being rear-biased is a strong selling point for us. On the open road and in situations where all-wheel drive is not necessary, the rear-drive bias makes the M850i Convertible feel like a true driver’s car. 
Shifts are smooth and quick in Comfort mode, and aggressive and strong in either of the Sport modes. In heavy city traffic, the performance rag top puts few demands on the driver. Also, we had more than a few people snapping their necks to look at this beautiful new 8 Series.
xDrive sends torque to the rear when all-wheel drive is not needed. This makes the 2019 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible feel like a true driver’s car.
Conclusion
The 2019 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible gets high marks in almost every area, except for back seat comfort which is no surprise. However, you will have this beauty sitting in your four-car garage next to your luxury SUV, and you will use that when you need to haul the family anyway. Ride quality is excellent and it comes with all the high-tech equipment to keep you engaged on a long drive. In the end, though, you will want this luxury coupe for its superb overall performance.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. All of his firsthand reviews are archived on our test drives page. Follow Denis on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible Gallery 














Photos: BMW of North America, LLC.



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2020 Chevy Corvette Stingray: Finally, The Mid-Engine Vette

2020 Chevy Corvette Stingray: Finally, The Mid-Engine Vette  The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is the first mid-engine Vette in history. 
With an LT2 Small Block V8, the new Stingray is the fastest entry-level Vette ever. 
Prior to its on-sale date, the performance car will embark on a cross-country tour. 
Yes, you did just feel that. That was the automotive world shifting on its axis. Chevy just dropped the Corvette for 2020, and normally an all-new Vette is a big deal, but this new Corvette, the C8, is a revolution that has been a long time coming. Nearly 60 years, as a matter of fact. In the late 50s, engineers figured out that, from a performance standpoint, the best place to put the engine is right in the middle. This eventually made its way into production sports cars and today, everyone from Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche, and even boutique makers like Koenigsegg know that if you’re going to go fast, you have to put the engine in the middle.
Everyone, that is, except for Chevrolet.
2020 Chevy Corvette Stingray: Finally, The Mid-Engine Vette
Up until a few days ago, the top of Chevy’s performance mountain, the Corvette, maintained a staunchly old school layout of front engine/rear drive. Many puzzled as to why this is, and even more criticized GM for sticking with this route. As good as the C7 is – and make no mistake, it is a very, very good car with world-topping performance – it was still behind the potential performance curve.
GM has been teasing us with a mid-engine Corvette since 1971. There have been design studies, show cars, production what-ifs, the lot. Some in silver, some in blue; there was even a triple rotor, Wankle-powered mid-engine Vette that was going to be produced “next year.” Or perhaps the year after that. For sure. But it never happened.
Some chalked this up to GM’s inherent corporate conservatism. I was one of them. For as good as the Corvette got, it was, for a long time, not a Serious Sports Car. There were too many compromises and they went on for far too long. For decades it was a car that looked fast, but was hamstrung by design compromises. GM’s time off the line with their flagship was second tier, sometimes even third tier when stacked against the competition.
“If GM was serious about performance,” said all the gearheads and railbirds, “they’d make it mid-engine.” And now, for whatever the reasons, GM has finally heard our pleas and taken the wraps off the eighth generation Corvette for 2020. If the numbers hold, GM will not be in the top tier of performance supercars, they will hold the top spot. The main factors concerning the mid-engine C8 are the engine, the transmission, where everything sits and, very happily, the price.
2020 Chevy Corvette Stingray, the first mid-engine Vette. Photo: Chevrolet.
Power & Performance: No Manual For The Next Generation
At the heart of the 2020 Stingray is Chevy’s next-gen, 6.2-liter Small Block LT2 V8. It’s naturally aspirated and will produce 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque. Healthy numbers, to be sure, and, indeed, the most horsepower and torque for any entry-level Corvette. Yet, that’s the bottom of the performance ladder. It goes up from there.
Next, the gearbox. The new LT2 plant is mated with Chevy’s first eight speed dual-clutch transmission. Yes, just like the ones you find in Ferraris and Porsches and, more importantly, race cars. There will be no manual option, except by means of steering wheel paddles. The transmission was designed in-house by GM and TREMEC and is unique to the 2020 Stingray. Chevy says the 2020 Corvette Stingray will hit 60 in less than three seconds with skidpad figures coming in over 1.0 Gs.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Less Is More
No, that does not exactly blow Ferrari et al. away, but the C8 is effectively tied for first, if not outright leading. But here’s the number that does obliterate the competition: $60,000. That is the starting price. It is about half what a Porsche 911 goes for. It is about 75 percent less than a Ferrari 488. Do the thought experiment: you have $60,000. Do you put a down payment on a Porsche or a Ferrari, or do you want an entire car? A car that can be serviced in any one of five thousand dealerships.
A car that, and I’ll guarantee this, will have a blazing hot heater and an ice cold AC system.
Say what you want about the Germans and the Italians; and the Japanese and the British and what they are capable of doing, but Chevy just did the same thing, And they did it for the price of a luxury crossover. Everyone else in the world might be able to keep up with, or beat the C8 Stingray on a strip or road course or on a mountain road (maybe); but I seriously, seriously doubt anyone in the world will beat it on price.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Corvette Visualizer
The 2020 Chevy Corvette Stingray goes into production at Bowling Green Assembly later this year. Additional pricing and packaging information will be available closer to launch. When it hits the market, the new Stingray will come in 12 exterior colors, six interior color themes and seat belt colors, and two optional stitching packages. If you simply cannot wait, a new digital tool, the Corvette Visualizer, lets you design your dream mid-engine Vette in vivid detail.
Nationwide Tour
The 2020 Corvette Stingray will embark on a cross-country dealership tour leading up to its on-sale date. Corvette specialists, along with the vehicle and numerous other displays, will stop at over 125 dealerships nationwide, as well as major consumer events.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz. 
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Photos & Source: Chevrolet.



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2018 Ford Expedition Platinum 4×4 Review

2018 Ford Expedition Platinum 4×4 Review If you need something more rugged than a typical three-row crossover, the 2018 Ford Expedition is a must-look for families. Needing to haul the kids, their friends, and maybe a few “toys” for that weekend trip away from civilization? It seats up to eight passengers, has a powerful, newly-redesigned turbocharged V6, and can tow more than 9,000 lbs.
And in its Platinum trim, you will travel in style to business meetings, golf outings, and those evenings out at the dinner theater. This week, we’ve been getting a taste of the top-of-the-line, 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum.
What’s New For 2018
The Ford Expedition gets new upgrades, including increased horsepower and torque, a new 10-speed automatic transmission, a redesigned instrument panel, and a handful of new, stand-alone options and packages. The extended-length Expedition is now called the “Max.”
Features & Options
The 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum 4×4 ($73,030) comes with 20-inch wheels, front parking sensors, roof rack rails, retractable running boards, heated second-row seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a premium Bang & Olufsen 12-speaker audio system with HD radio.
It also comes with second-row leather captain’s chairs (reduces seating capacity to seven) and a rear-seat entertainment system with dual headrest-mounted displays. This tester also came with the heavy-duty tow package, the self-parking system, and auto LED headlights and fog lights. Ford did not list exact pricing on the options as this was a pre-production model.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Interior Highlights
Behind the wheel, the driver has a commanding view of the road because of the ride height and seating position. We were able to find the prefect driving position with the power/tilt telescoping steering wheel and adjustable pedals with memory. The seats are plush and there’s plenty of head, shoulder, and hip room for taller passengers.
Families will find acres of room inside for spreading out on longer trips. Kids won’t be asking, “are we there yet?” with the rear-seat entertainment system. The optional second row captain’s chairs are comfy, and there’s lots of legroom with the chair’s ability to slide forward and back. Even the third row, which is usually only good for kids in most SUVs, is decent enough to seat two adults for long distances.
Expedition offers exceptional space for families needing to carry extra cargo. There’s 104.6 cubic feet behind the first row, 63.6 cubic feet behind the second row, and 20.9 cubic feet behind the third row.





Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Platinum Expedition is powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. The engine’s 400 horsepower and massive 480 lb-ft. of torque marks an increase in power. It comes mated to a new 10-speed automatic with a tow/haul mode sending power to all four wheels. An FX4 off-road trim is available which includes additional skid plates and Ford’s Terrain Management System.  
Fuel economy estimates for our Platinum tester came in at 17/22 city/highway and 19 combined mpg using regular unleaded fuel.
Driving Dynamics
The Expedition gets a unique drive shifter knob that saves space. You just dial up “drive” and you’re ready to go. Once underway, the first thing we noticed was the Expedition’s more powerful turbocharged EcoBoost engine with its massive 480 lb-ft. of torque for the Platinum trim. One of the downsides: you need to run premium unleaded fuel to get those torque ratings.
This big SUV has impressive acceleration and we had a hard time keeping our foot out of the gas. It’s one of the quickest SUVs in the class. We took the Expedition up I-70 at altitude west of Denver. Let’s just say, this family hauler feels like a much smaller vehicle. Passing slower traffic was not an issue; we had to watch our speed because it rises up easily.
We did notice the considerable body lean in the tight mountain corners, so this big three-row is likely best when it’s on the open highway. The new Expedition does come with an auto start/stop feature. That takes getting used to in city traffic.
The Ford Expedition’s strong point is how it’s a truck-based SUV, meaning it can take some abuse. You can run the Expedition on muddy or dirt roads, or through snow and not have to worry about getting stuck. It can tow more than 9,000 lbs. when equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package too. 
Conclusion
If you need a tough-as-nails, seven- or eight-passenger SUV, with towing capacity for a large trailer, and a lot of room for the kids and pets, the 2018 Ford Expedition is a great choice. For extra luxury, move up to the Platinum model. Overall, the 2018 Ford Expedition is ideal for families with active lifestyles who need more than a typical kid and grocery hauler.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
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2018 Ford Expedition Official Site.
Photos: Ford Motor Company.



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From 1925 To 2018: Alfa Romeo Returns To Formula 1

From 1925 To 2018: Alfa Romeo Returns To Formula 1 This is great news, this is terrible news. It will be a hallmark long remembered before the whole idea sinks beneath the waves of history without so much as a bubble. Alfa Romeo, the team, the team that for so long represented Italy, the team that utterly dominated European and Grand Prix racing, the team that behaved like rank amateurs without an ounce of engineering know-how, the team of true greatness and truly great failures is returning to Formula 1.
No Guarantees
David Letterman, noted funny man, native Hoosier, Porsche aficionado, and race team owner once said, after watching one of his cars drop out while leading by country a mile: “The great thing about racing is that anything can happen. And the terrible thing about racing is that anything can happen.” He was only half kidding and 100 percent right. I’ve come to call that quip of his “Letterman’s Constant.” Ask anyone who has been around racing, and I have been around the sport my entire life, and they will tell you not only how true Letterman’s Constant is, but also how many times they’ve seen it happen.
It is another way of saying that, in racing, there are no sure things.
Weight & Significance
The nuts and bolts of this, the hows and whys and wherefores are pretty standard stuff, as to any given car company entering into the most pressurized and highest end of Motorsports. Alfa Romeo, a division of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, has signed on to be an “engine supplier” to and primary sponsor of the Swiss-based Sauber F1 Team. Pretty standard, in much the same way Honda did a few years back when they started making engines for McLaren.
What is not standard is the emotional Weight and historic Significance of this pairing (and yeah, I meant both of those to be capitalized). Although Ferrari justifiably holds the spotlight in the minds of modern Italian race fans, they are, despite all their successes (and let’s face the immutable fact that Ferrari is the best team in Grand Prix history) a bit of a newcomer. Ferrari is to Alfa Romeo the way Porsche is to Mercedes-Benz. You know that laurel wreath that rings Alfa’s badge? That was added when Alfa won the first World Manufacturers’ Championship. Not its first, the first in 1925. Alfa justifiably had the motto: Primo campione del automobili del mundo; first automotive champion of the world. Add to this a partial list of former Alfa Romeo employees: Campari, Varzi, Nuvolari, Fangio, Farina, Ascari (both father and son), and Vaccarella. Put those two factors together and what you get is this:
World Championships: 5; Mille Miglia victories: 11; Targa Florio victories: 10; outright 24 Hours of Le Mans victories: 4; European Touring Car Championships: 17. And those are just the major titles. Alfa Romeo has racked them up in Italian, French, German, and European F3 Championships; Trans-Am Championships, DTM championships, and British, Spanish, and French Touring Car Championships, with equal aplomb.
So what’s the downside here? What’s the other side of Letterman’s Constant? Two things: Alfa Romeo and Sauber.
The Alfa Romeo P2 Gran Premio lead the team to the inaugural Automobile World Championship in 1925. Photo: FCA US LLC.
With Or Without You
Have you ever lived with an Alfa Romeo? It’s like living with Monica Bellucci if she had serious bi-polar issues. It is days and nights of unbridled desire and delight and then WHAM! Next thing you know, you’re dumped on the side of the road, staring deep into the smoking ruins of what was your heart or your engine or whatever, feeling like an Old Testament prophet who has seriously offended God. “What’s this? What’s wrong? What did I do? How is this my fault? Why? WHY?!” you howl into the lonely and pitiless night.
And this fine Italian tradition, like a vendetta your third uncle is still paying for, carries on to this day. Look, I seriously desire an Alfa Romeo Giulia, but have you seen their reliability reports? And what will Alfa bring to the F1 table for 2018 when it starts in Melbourne? Who knows? But what is known (and this is where things get tricky) those engines nestled in the snug confines of a Sauber engine bay, aren’t really Alfas. They are rebadged Ferrari power units. The good news is Alfa/Sauber will be getting the latest spec Ferrari power plants from the start of the season. The bad news is that in 2017, Ferrari’s engines had a tendency to fail if you squeezed them hard.
Sure, sure, you could look at that and say it’s all a ruse and a Bad Thing, but c’mon. Rebadging engines is a fine racing tradition, and besides, Alfa has been running reconfigured Ferrari mills in their road cars for a while now. Lop off two cylinders, and you got the sublime V6 of the modern Giulia. Mount that V8 from the 360/430 up front and you’ve got the inspirational V8 of the 8C Competizione. Besides, all this badging and rebadging will raise Alfa Romeo’s image in America, where they are seriously looking to expand.
Photo: FCA US LLC.
From Hills To Mountains
And of course, there’s the Sauber end of this equation. The Swiss team (based out of a kind of nowhere town called Hinwil) has been in serious performance trouble for as long as anyone cares to remember. This is a very sad state of affairs. For a while there, Sauber was seriously knocking on the door to be one of the front runners. And before that, Sauber was a frighteningly fast team in big bore sports car racing. Their Sauber Mercedes C9s displayed top end power at Le Mans like I have never seen, and they still hold the outright terminal velocity record at the great French race: 251 miles per hour and change. They hit that speed in practice, qualifying, and throughout the race, lap in, lap out for an entire day.
How they went from there to being at the literal back of an F1 grid is frankly beyond me. They have a fantastically well run operation staffed by literal geniuses. They have a wind tunnel that NASA is envious of. They just got a new infusion of cash from Swedish investors (not sure how that dovetails, but hey, an operating budget is an operating budget). And now they’ve got even more money and backing from Alfa Romeo.
Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team pilots Charles Leclerc (left) and Marcus Ericsson. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Pretty Faces & Exciting Races
How can this not work? What could possibly go wrong with this chemical admixture? Simple: This is racing. And the great thing about racing is that anything can happen. And the terrible thing about racing is that anything can happen. Officially called the Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team, they will sport the distinctive Alfa Romeo colors and logo seen in the past, and will be on the grid in Australia for the first race of the 2018 Formula 1 World Championship. Will this work? I don’t know. But they’ll be pretty to look at, that’s easy to say.
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. 
Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.



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Volvo Announces XC90 Production In South Carolina

Volvo Announces XC90 Production In South Carolina

The next generation XC90 will be built at Volvo Cars’ new manufacturing plant in Berkeley County, South Carolina beginning in 2021. The announcement brings Volvo’s total U.S. investment in manufacturing to just over 1.1 billion.
“The continued expansion of our plant in South Carolina is another significant commitment to the US market,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and Chief Executive, Volvo Cars. “The plant in Charleston will serve both the U.S. and international markets and forms a strong foundation for our future growth in the U.S. and globally.”
Job Creation
In the fall of 2018, S60 production will begin at Volvo’s new South Carolina facility. To support production, 2,000 new employees are being hired but with plans to build the XC90 in South Carolina, another 1,900 jobs are expected. Volvo says the full economic impact will be much greater once the plant is fully operational and the “job multiplier” effect is accounted for.
Global Strategy
Volvo’s manufacturing strategy is based on a “build where you sell” approach. Concerning the XC90, the U.S. is the largest market for the SUV, although a considerable number of units will be exported from the Port of Charleston. Total U.S. production capacity at the plant will rise to 150,000 vehicles annually Volvo predicts.
Prior to the XC90’s arrival, some felt Volvo’s presence in the U.S. was lackluster. When the XC90 arrived for Volvo retailers and dealer principals in 2015, it was often met with open arms and seen as something that could revive the brand for American buyers. Indeed it proved to be that, winning a number of awards and jumping U.S. sales from a low of 56,000 units in 2014 to almost 83,000 in 2016.
Photo: Volvo Cars.
Carolina Pride
In addition to the Charleston plant, Volvo is planning a neighboring office campus to house up to 300 staff from R&D, purchasing, quality, and the regional sales team. Volvo Cars announced in May 2015 – just as the XC90 was hitting the U.S. – that its first ever manufacturing plant here would be located just outside Charleston, South Carolina. Volvo cited direct access to international ports and infrastructure, a well-trained labor force, an attractive investment environment, and experience in the high tech manufacturing sector as the primary reasons to come to South Carolina.
“We’re excited to add a second car to our first American factory in South Carolina and we continue to be impressed by the entrepreneurial spirit in South Carolina,” said Lex Kerssemakers, President and CEO of Volvo Car USA. “Our business in the U.S. has been undergoing a transformation over the past two years and this is an important next step for our development here.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 
Photos & Source: Volvo Cars.



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Cruising Through Napa Valley In The 2018 Nissan Leaf

Cruising Through Napa Valley In The 2018 Nissan Leaf Although the new Nissan Leaf shares the platform with its predecessor, that is where the similarities end. Both the interior and exterior have been completely redesigned, as well as the battery and drive motor for increases in range and power. The updates don’t stop there either: the steering and suspension have been tuned and tightened, and the chassis has been firmed. The styling changes are apparent too, and safety features like Pro Pilot Assist and Intelligent Cruise Control set the 2018 Nissan Leaf apart in the segment.
We recently attended a media event organized by Nissan to see the 2018 Leaf. The vehicle’s name is an acronym for “Leading, Environmentally Friendly, Affordable, Family Car,” so it’s only fitting the 2018 model preview took place at the beautiful LEED Platinum-certified Bardessono Hotel in Napa County, California. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.
First Impressions
Nissan asked for customer feedback and have clearly taken note. When you see the new Leaf, it’s quite apparent it looks nothing like the one of yore. Very little semblance to the awkward lines and frog-like face can be found in this sharp, new design. Aesthetic appeal can be an emotional topic and it’s always subjective. However, opinions aside, the new styling Nissan has adopted is a significant departure from what we have become accustomed to regarding the Leaf, and most EVs from the onset. The “floating” roof with blacked out C-pillars, as well as the “V-motion grille” is found on other cars in Nissan’s lineup. The Leaf has clearly been brought into the fold and shares noticeable DNA with its gasoline-powered brethrens. The redesign is a welcome refinement and far less polarizing than the previous amphibious-faced rendition.
The family resemblance carries over to the interior as well. The vehicle as tested was a well-appointed SL trim, sporting leather-wrapped bucket seats, and a leather-stitched steering wheel, both electronically heated. The seats are firm but comfortable and the instrumentation layout is orderly and intuitive. The infotainment system is equally orderly and instinctive to use. Although the infotainment center has a similar shape to a tablet, there was clear consideration put into integrating the ubiquitous shape, opposed to the common practice of plunking an iPad lazily onto the dash.
However, there are a couple of drawbacks: some of the plastic-ey interior styling accents are quite Sentra-esque and, to be brutally honest, there is more of it than expected at this $37,000 price point. The steering wheel is adjustable but no telescoping action. The wheel position may be an issue for taller drivers as the battery pack sits below the seats, forcing a relatively high driving position. The driver’s seat used to feel a bit like sitting in the cockpit of a shrunken minivan, but now feels like the cabin of a modern car, so there is some improvement there.
2018 Nissan Leaf. Photo: Nissan Motor Corporation.
Enhanced Tech & Drivetrain: Obvious to Obscure
Although volumetrically the battery pack is the same size, Nissan cleverly increased its density by using a thinner separator and more efficient materials. By reducing the size of the separator, Nissan has allowed for greater battery cell density, essentially fitting more cells into the same amount of space. This means you get significantly more storage capacity and noticeably more power in the same amount of space, from 30kW to 40kW to be exact. This equates to roughly 150 miles on a single charge, boosting horsepower from 107 to 147, while torque climbs to 236 lb-ft.
Apple Car Play, Android Auto, and NissanConnect with navigation are optional, but vehicle tracking is one of the most unique features available. The vehicle can be tracked in real-time to make sure it stays where you left it; parents can even monitor a new driver. With EV Telematics, owner’s can set geographical boundaries on Google maps, triggering a notification to an app when the vehicle breaches the perimeter. Since Nissan has partnered with Amazon, many of the Leaf’s features, like climate control, can be activated by speaking to Alexa.





Ride & Handling
We’ve discussed the obvious and shed some light on the obscure, but this is an automobile, and the real question is how does it drive? The details of exactly what has been changed suspension-wise are a bit vague, but it’s Nissan’s claim the chassis has been “enhanced” and the steering torsion bar stiffened 10 percent. Upon entering the beautifully curvaceous B roads of Napa Valley, the steering did feel quite lithe and the feedback is surprisingly concise. The ride is a bit stiff over the rough parts but comfortable under most conditions. The 2018 Leaf has grown one inch both in length and width over previous generations to 176 by 71 inches respectively; the height remains the same at 61.4 inches.
This fact begs the question, what has transpired in the chassis development to eliminate the tall, spongy feel that befell the original? Nissan attributes the enhanced feedback and steering feel to new control logic software, which utilizes steering angle sensors and Intelligent Ride Control for managing torque under cornering. Combine the improved handling with the increased torque, and you have a recipe for fun. In an EV no less!
Photo: Nissan Motor Corporation.
Advanced Drive Modes
Like most passenger cars with automatic transmissions, there are three familiar drive indicators: “D” “N” and “R.” As you might expect, there is an ECO mode that reduces the impact of acceleration, increases regenerative braking, and even augments the HVAC to maximize battery life. Interestingly there is a “B” accommodating the “D” on the shift knob. This mode essentially feels like driving in a lower gear, creating regenerative engine braking with 2.5 times more deceleration than “D.” None of these features are revolutionary or even uncommon, however, the e-Pedal is a feature that’s uniquely electric, and included on every trim level.
This feature is sincerely conflicting for me. As a proponent of driver involvement and a member of the Manual Transmission Preservation Society, it seems somewhat contradictory I should enjoy a driving characteristic like e-Pedal; it’s fun yet uninvolving. The e-Pedal allows the driver to navigate with a single pedal (according to a study conducted by Nissan) 90 percent of the time. Not two, not three, but one pedal to accelerate, cruise, slow, even come to a complete stop and hold stationary.
This is made possible by the unique function of the electric drivetrain. Rather than applying the standard friction brake, the drive motor creates resistance capable of bringing the vehicle to a stop extraordinarily and smoothly, simply by lifting your foot from the accelerator. Not only will it slow down at a rate of 0.2 g, but it charges the battery during deceleration. The feeling can be likened to driving in second gear with increased throttle response and aggressive engine braking. Nonetheless, I found myself driving the test vehicle in e-Pedal mode most of the time . . . that is, when the Pro Pilot Assist was not activated.
Photo: Nissan Motor Corporation.
Nearly Autonomous Driving
Pro Pilot Assist is the combination of active radar cruise control (Intelligent Cruise Control) in concert with lane departure and lane guidance assist. Intelligent Cruise Control is like other radar based systems, in that the vehicle will match the speed of the car ahead. When traffic impedes forward progress, the radar detects the obstruction, then slows and accelerates to match the speed of traffic. There are three time-gap-based distance settings in the assist mode, so the driver can adjust how closely they want to follow the car ahead.
The lane guidance is based on a visual system that uses a camera to scan the road for visual inputs, namely the lines. Some lane departure and lane guidance aides wait for a vehicle to come within an approach boundary to intervene and prevent inadvertently crossing lanes. The Nissan system is more of a constant guide, gently shepherding the automobile toward the center of the lane without abruptly bouncing to and fro across it. Pilot is an apt name due to its ability to navigate subtle curves in the road, and it is probably capable of negotiating turns greater than I had the nerve to allow without intervention. Slow moving traffic is where Pro Pilot Assist really shines.
Photo: Nissan Motor Corporation.
Alarm Bells
Nissan has shrewdly added layers of safety so Pro Pilot is not abused as a purely autonomous autopilot. The dash will flash warning lights if no driver is detected at the steering wheel for 5 seconds. Should the driver not have a hand, or even a finger on the wheel after the warning lights flash, obnoxious beeping will ensue. If the alarm is allowed to reach the equivalent of cardiac arrest, Pro Pilot Assist will pump the brakes three times while synchronously beeping insufferably. If this hasn’t jarred the driver awake, evoking some sort of input, the Leaf takes matters into its own hands and assumes the driver is somehow incapacitated.
The system can bring the vehicle to a stop from 40 mph and flash the hazard lights. This final emergency stop phase is where the noises get interesting. A whooping “Red Alert” siren sounds, and were it not an actual emergency, the audible alarm is quite comical. Being the Leaf is virtually silent, this may be the best noise the car makes (unless you have the optional Bose audio package). All kidding aside, this smart tech, along with safety features like automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, may very well save lives.
Photo: Nissan Motor Corporation.
Conclusion
The Nissan Leaf is the most popular car in a growing EV market. It’s not a sports car, its not a luxury car, or even a Hot Hatch. It is not meant to be any of these things, and that is evident. What the Leaf is though, is an excellent commuter, and a great city car. With the extended range and ever-growing DC quick-charging network, it can be more than a mode of transport confined to city limits. The Leaf is a zero-emissions leader with flavors of sport, style, and a dash of luxury. Nissan has shown battery-operated vehicles can be packed with technology at a lower price than previous generations.
As popularity is gained in the EV market and competition increases, I believe this trend will progress and prices will continue to fall. For myself, the exciting thing about driving the new Leaf is the noticeable increase in power and torque, yet you know performance has been tuned down for the sake of sensibility. So, I can’t help wondering what the future holds if say a lightened NISMO version of the Leaf were released to the public. Or even better, a purpose-built affordable FUN EV!
Benjamin Caschera is a car nut in every sense of the word. His eclectic writings range from rants on traffic and wrenching on $500 cars, to adulation of the finest classic and/or latest hypercars. Follow and heckle him on Twitter and Instagram: @TheBoringCarGuy
2018 Nissan Leaf Gallery














Photos: Nissan Motor Corporation, Leaf Media Drive.



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Swedish Families Help Volvo Develop Autonomous Vehicles

Swedish Families Help Volvo Develop Autonomous Vehicles
Swedish families are playing an instrumental role in Volvo’s autonomous vehicle development. The Hains and Simonovskis from Gothenburg, Sweden are already navigating the city in XC90 SUVs as part of Volvo’s Drive Me program. The families are utilizing XC90s equipped with autonomous technology just as they would any other vehicle for their daily routines. Volvo’s engineers will use the corresponding feedback and impressions to further develop the company’s driverless technology.
Volvo plans to have fully automated cars available by 2021.
Daily Lives
Three more families are expected to join early next year and Volvo says up to 100 people will be involved in the Drive Me program. Volvo’s engineers will monitor and study how the autonomous XC90 SUVs accompany these families throughout the day, from taking the kids to school to getting groceries. Volvo says the Drive Me program is about real customers testing the different stages of driver assisted and, eventually, fully autonomous technology.
The Hain family. Photo: Volvo Car Group.
Family Matters
The Hain family comprises of Alex and Paula (45 years old), and their daughters Filippa (17) and Smilla (14). The Hains were the first ones selected to take part in the Drive Me initiative earlier this year. Joining the Hain’s are Sasko Simonovski (44) and his wife Anna (41), and their children Elin (10) and Villiam (8). The Volvo XC90s received by both families feature the automaker’s latest driver assistance suite, complete with a variety of cameras and sensors.
“Drive Me is an important research project for Volvo Cars,” said Henrik Green, Senior Vice President for Volvo’s R&D department. “We expect to learn a lot from engaging these families and will use their experiences to shape the development of our autonomous driving technology, so that by 2021 we can offer our customers a fully autonomous car.”
During the initial stages, the Hains and Simonovskis will keep their hands on the wheel as they normally would any other vehicle. Over time, Drive Me participants will gradually be introduced to more advanced driverless technology after receiving special training. Volvo says these more advanced vehicles will first be introduced in controlled environments with supervision from a safety expert.
The Simonovski family. Photo: Volvo Car Group.
Forward Thinking
Proponents of autonomous driving have pointed to a number of benefits, including a world where no single person is hurt or killed in a traffic accident. Volvo’s Vision 2020 commitment is about developing technology to create a safer world, including the end goal of eliminating road fatalities. Across the industry, global summits on automated driving are being held to address and overcome the challenges facing autonomous cars.
“It feels great to be a part of this project,” commented Alex Hain. “We get the chance to be part of developing technology that will one day save lives.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 
Photos & Source: Volvo Car Group.



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2018 Nissan Pathfinder Arrives With New Features, Special Editions

2018 Nissan Pathfinder Arrives With New Features, Special Editions

Last year, the Nissan Pathfinder underwent a major redesign, so for 2018, there’s some detail improvements here and there, along with new pricing across the board. On sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide, the 2018 Pathfinder has a starting price of $30,790. All the updates give you “more adventure capability, a freshened exterior look, and enhanced safety, technology, performance, and style,” according to Nissan. Whether it’s adventuresome or not, there are some new bits on the Pathfinder worth noting.
More Driver Aids
For 2018, the Pathfinder receives new features including standard Automatic Emergency Braking, an enhanced Midnight Edition appearance package, and Nissan’s new Rear Door Alert. 2018 also sees two new colors, Scarlet Ember and Midnight Pine, standard Intelligent Cruise Control, and NissanConnect with Navigation and Services on the Pathfinder SL. Previously those were considered high zoot packages only found on the Platinum grade Pathfinders. 2018 also brings 4 additional USB ports for a total of 6.
The Rear Door Alert system, which I covered recently, is there to help remind customers of anything that may be forgotten in the rear seat, such as “pets, valuables, dry cleaning, groceries, and more.” The “and more” if I have to spell this out, equates to Your Children! If the Rear Door Alert system detects that a rear door has been opened prior to driving, and the driver does not open a rear door again at the end of a drive, the Rear Door Alert reminds you that something might have been left in the back. I know, I know, but I bet some people need stuff like this.
Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Back In Black
That new Pathfinder Midnight Edition is now available on both Platinum grade and SL trim levels, although Nissan cautions that deliveries of the Midnight Edition SLs might take a little longer. The Pathfinder Midnight Edition highlights include 20-inch Midnight Edition aluminum-alloy wheels with a bunch of blacked-out stuff lathered all over. There are black mirror caps, black spoiler, black roof rails, black grille surround, black front and rear fascia accents, black license plate finisher, black badging, and black splash guards. The Pathfinder Midnight Edition also comes with illuminated kick plates, exterior approach lighting and, if you want to go whole-hog, Midnight Edition floor mats. Yes, floor mats! Color choices are three: Gun Metallic, Magnetic Black, and, curiously, Pearl White.
The 2018 Pathfinder seats seven, is offered in 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive, and comes in four grade levels: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Here’s a handy little chart showing you the pricing for the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder:
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.
Pathfinder S 2WD
$30,790 USD
Pathfinder SV 2WD
$33,480 USD
Pathfinder SL 2WD
$37,500 USD
Pathfinder Platinum 2WD
$42,320 USD
Pathfinder S 4WD
$32,480 USD
Pathfinder SV 4WD
$35,170 USD
Pathfinder SL 4WD
$39,190 USD
Pathfinder Platinum 4WD
$44,010 USD
Photos & Source: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.



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