Automotive

2020 VW Passat: Now With “Tornado” Lines

2020 VW Passat: Now With “Tornado” Lines The 2020 VW Passat strikes a balance between new technology and proven performance.
VW says the new Passat’s design is coupe-like with a “tornado line” running through the car.
The 2020 VW Passat is the very definition of a good run-around car. These are cars we buy for driving to work; or for our spouses or kids as they go off to college. We feel relieved when we, or someone we love, is behind the wheel of a good run-around car.
We don’t break the bank with the 2020 VW Passat, but we get enough for the commute. In a world where SUVs dominate and car lines are getting the boot, the 2020 Passat is a nice alternative for those who still want a “normal” sedan.
Let’s take a look.
Interior Treatments: For American Tastes
On the inside is where it really matters for the 2020 VW Passat. Eight years ago, VW spent considerable time redesigning the Passat for American buyers. Interior space, technology, and creature comforts topped the list. For 2020, this means a more contemporary instrument panel and a new glass-covered touchscreen. Every 2020 Passat comes with VW’s Car-Net technology, which integrates Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink.
Three interior décor designs are available, based on trim, as are V-Tex leatherette and Nappa leather seating. Heated front and rear seats (with memory) and dual-zone climate controls are optional. Available convenience features include power-folding, heated side mirrors (also with memory), auto-dimming rearview mirror, remote start, and rain-sensing wipers.
Top trim models have a Fender Premium Audio system, which will make any long commute enjoyable.
2020 VW Passat interior layout. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Styling & Design: The “Tornado” Line
The 2020 Passat retains the underpinnings of the previous model but the exterior is quite different. The grille, LED headlights and taillights, and badging are new, for example. VW makes note of the “dramatic tornado line” on the 2020 Passat, but don’t elaborate. VW alludes to the “coupe-like” profile, so maybe that’s it? Or perhaps that tornado line is referring to the actual roofline?
We’re not entirely sure, although it sounds cool, whatever it is and wherever it’s at.
Related: Good value for the money? Our full review of the 2019 VW Jetta.
Platform & Chassis: Carried Over From 2019
The technical aspects include a front suspension with damper struts, robust lower control arms, coil springs, and an anti-roll bar. At the rear, the four-link independent layout marries telescopic dampers and another anti-roll bar. The electro-mechanical power steering provides a healthy balance, making the 2020 Passat easier to control at all speeds.
17-inch wheels come standard, although more stylish 18- and 19-inch wheels are available.
Can you spot the “tornado line” VW is talking about? Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Power & Performance: Just Enough For The Drive
The 2020 VW Passat makes 174 horsepower from its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with direct injection. With the new torque converter and corresponding software, torque output rises to 207 lb-ft. from 184. Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic with Tiptronic. It’s not the most powerful thing in the world, but considering it’s an ideal run-around-town kind of car, the engine specs are plenty good.
No word on fuel economy yet, although the 2019 Passat comes in at 25/36 city/highway and 29 combined.
Safety & Security
As is the trend with vehicles today, the 2020 VW Passat loads up on active safety tech. Every Passat includes Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Pedestrian Monitoring, and a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert. Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist help on the open road, while Park Assist is handy for the garage downtown.
Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Pricing & Availability
The 2020 VW Passat arrives this summer, complete with four trim levels and a launch-only Limited model. Pricing info is forthcoming, although the 2019 Passat starts at $26,090 after the destination fee.
The Volkswagen Chattanooga assembly plant has production honors.
Carl Anthony 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. Before returning to school, he simultaneously held product development and experiential marketing roles in the automotive industry.
2020 VW Passat Gallery

Photos & Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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2019 Subaru STI S209: Small, Powerful & Rare

2019 Subaru STI S209: Small, Powerful & Rare The Subaru STI S209 debuts at the North American International Auto Show.
Flexible strut tower bar, Brembo brakes, and a powerful engine are among the highlights.
First STI-crafted S-line performance vehicle set for the United States, although numbers are limited.
Oh baby! Here’s a tasty piece of automotive engineering: The Subaru WRX STi S209. Wait, scratch that. It is simply called the STi S209, or the 2019 Subaru Limited-Edition STI S209 if you want to be technical about it. But essentially it’s a big, fast WRX that will force your eyeballs back into your skull like a punch from Jackie Chan.
And, given the inherent goodness of the Subie’s always-on all-wheel-drive system, you can use the S209 all the time in any weather.
Small & Powerful
One could say – and I’m one that would – that the main gift Fuji Heavy Industries bestows upon the STI S209 is in the engine bay. That being 341 horsepower. That is a lot, by any measurement and, in a car this (relatively) small and light, that is a lot (a lot!) of power. Sure, the STI S209 has more going for it, but that number will be the only argument any number of potential buyers will need to hear. Potential buyers like any number of friends of mine in rally clubs spread across the USA.
So, besides the engine, what does the STI S209 have to offer? There are upgrades across the board. Upgrades in handling, aerodynamics, and driver engagement. The rally car also sports front, rear and side under spoilers, front bumper canards, and a carbon-fiber roof panel and rear wing.
Here is a look.
2019 Subaru Limited-Edition STI S209 in Crystal White Pearl. Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.
Essentially it's a big, fast #WRX that will force your eyeballs back into your skull like a punch from Jackie Chan.Click To TweetFender Flares & Brembo Brakes
For starters, the STI S209 now stands 1.7 inches wider than a standard WRX STI, clocking in at 72.4 inches overall. Like the WRX STI Nürburgring Challenge racecar that inspired it, the STI S209 has “expanded wide-body” exterior treatments. Fender flares for you old school types out there. Those flares are there to contain a wider front and rear track, the 19 x 9-inch forged BBS alloy wheels, and those big whopping 265/35 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT600A summer-only tires.
And please note those are summer-only. So you gravel racers will have to get your own shoes for rally purposes.
The big vents on the front fenders are there for additional engine cooling, while vents on the rear fenders correct air turbulence and reduce drag. Wanna stop? Course you do. Mash that center pedal and the Brembo brakes, with cross-drilled steel rotors and six-piston monoblock front calipers and two-piston monoblock rear calipers, will haul you down like the Incredible Hulk grabbed you by the trunk.
The upgraded high-friction pads bring improved fade-resistance to the party.
Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.
Essential Foundations: Flexible Versus Rigid
Specially-developed Bilstein shocks, stiffened coil springs, a 20mm rear stabilizer bar, and pillow-type bushings for the front and rear lateral links keep every corner under control. The chassis of the STI S209 is stiffer thanks to the front crossmember and rear subframes, although the front-strut tower bar and the front/rear draw stiffeners are flexible. Bear with me for a sec.
A flexible bar, unlike the usual rigid bar, is split and joined with a pillow ball joint in the center. This makes it longitudinally mobile while helping to laterally stiffen things up. Bottom line: optimal tire grip during lateral moments and a compliant ride during longitudinal moments. The draw stiffeners are there to apply tension between the body and crossmember for optimized chassis flex, upping stability while cornering. And all the while providing better ride, handling, and steering response. Slick!
Now, about all that power . . .
The Dunlop tires are a significant contributor to the maximum lateral grip of over 1.0 g. Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.
Inside The Engine Bay
Subie reworked the snot out of the EJ25 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer plant! For example, midrange torque gets a 10 percent bump at 3,600 rpm, so corner exits are higher. The STI turbocharger, manufactured by HKS, features a larger turbine and compressor for 18.0 psi of boost. The pistons are forged and the con rods are lighter and stronger. Other improvements include a new high-flow fuel pump, silicone turbo inlet duct, larger fuel injectors, an intercooler water spray system, and an STI-tuned engine control module.
There’s a serial number plate proudly displayed on the engine block. If that’s not enough, the mufflers deliver 17 percent less airflow resistance.
Transmission Tech & Drive Modes
The engine is paired with a close-ratio, six-speed manual transmission and Subaru’s famous Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Duh. Front/rear limited-slip differentials, natch. The Driver Controlled Center Differential, Active Torque Vectoring, and the Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control system are also along for the ride.
The recalibrated SI-Drive system offers three modes: Intelligent (I) for better fuel economy and smoother power control; Sport (S) for balance between response and control; and Sport Sharp (S#) for the best acceleration times.

#Subie reworked the snot out of the 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer plant!Click To TweetSTI S209 Availability
The only real bad news (since Subie didn’t mention price) is that only 200 will be built. And after I get mine, there will be only 199 of them left for you, dear reader. So get in line now! Your color choices will be WR Blue Pearl with gray wheels and Crystal White Pearl with gold wheels.
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.
2019 Subaru Limited-Edition STI S209
Measurement
Specifications

Horsepower
341
Overall Width
72.4 inches
Brembo Brakes
6-piston (Front) / 2-piston (Rear)
BBS Alloy Wheels
19 x 9-inches
Max Boost Pressure
18.0 psi
Scheduled Production
200 units
2019 Subaru STI S209 Gallery

Photos & Source: Subaru of America, Inc., Subaru Tecnica International, Inc.

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2020 Toyota Supra: It’s Finally Here!

2020 Toyota Supra: It’s Finally Here! The 2020 Toyota Supra debuts at the North American International Auto Show.
After a long wait – 21 years in fact – Supra fans finally receive their unicorn.
Zero to 60 times are solid and the chassis setup is impressive.
Okay, just calm down, calm down I say! The 2020 Toyota Supra is here. You will get your chance to bask in its glory, including tons of specs and performance numbers, in due time, but until then, you are going to have to calm down. You have been frothing at the mouth for this thing ever since . . . well, ever since the last one disappeared over 20 years ago.
And now it’s here.
Whispers In The Wind
There has been a racket all over the automotive world for more than a year now. First it was there might be a new Supra from Toyota. Then it was there will be a new Supra. Last year, Toyota teased us with a GR Supra Racing Concept. Then more and more details leaked (included a tasty partnership between Toyota and BMW), and now, here we are.
It was worth the wait.
Power & Performance: Torque On The Low End
The upcoming fifth generation Supra was developed by Toyota and GAZOO racing, the guys that won Le Mans last year and have Fernando Alonso as one of their drivers. And, as everyone hoped, it’s chock full of performance goodies, high-tech or otherwise.
The 2020 Toyota Supra is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six, kicking out 335 horsepower and 365 lb-ft. of torque. Good numbers. Great numbers, actually, given the displacement of the engine and the not-really-big size of the car itself. ‘Yota says thanks to the arrangement of the twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection, and the intake and exhaust camshaft’s (continuously variable) timing, the bulk of that torque comes on from low engine speeds. Huzzah!
During development, the 2020 Toyota Supra was tested in France, Austria, Italy (including roads through the Alps), Germany (including the Nürburgring track), Sweden (ice and snow testing), the U.K., Japan, Australia, and the United States. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Transmission Tech: Automatics Only
The mill is bolted to an eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters, giving manual control when desired. However, there is no manual option. Sorry. No. None. Yes, yes I know. And I have not heard if Toyota hearkens to your lamentations. You will have to make do with a slush-box, although it is one of those nice modern ones that brings quick shifts to the table. It’s about as close as you can get to a true double-clutch auto-manual.
I can understand this. Adding a semi-auto would have tacked on another ten grand to the price (I bet). The ratios within the eight-speed auto-box are said to be short (no hard numbers given) for the lower gears and, thanks to a Launch Control system, you get strong acceleration and traction out of the gate. Toyota says 60 mph comes up in 4.1 seconds. The whole shootin’ match tops out at an electronically-limited 155 mph. There must be a way to top that, but I’ll leave that up to the aftermarket.
And whether this combination of tech wizardry and forced induction works off the line as well as an old fashion V8, we will have to wait and see. It’s only a matter of time until these things start showing up at grudge night this coming fall.
Toyota President Akio Toyoda personally tested the 2020 Supra on the Nürburgring and other tracks during development. He said he wanted to make sure the new Supra far exceeded the expectations of eager fans. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
2020 Toyota Supra
Measurement
Preliminary Specs
*Inches unless otherwise noted
Zero to 60
4.1 Seconds
Curb Weight
3,397 lbs.
Wheelbase
97.2
Overall Width
73.0
Overall Height
50.9
Overall Length
172.5
Track Width (Front)
62.8
Track Width (Rear)
62.6
Higher Speeds, Lower Track Times
The 2020 Toyota Supra comes with two driving modes: Normal and Sport. Sport is all about on-track capability and keeping standard computer nannies like traction and stability control out of your way as the driver. Sport Mode also improves throttle response and increases steering weight, while providing snappier shifts and more aggressive active differential tuning. Oh, and Sport Mode amplifies the exhaust sound. Who cares what your neighbors think!
Here’s all you need to know about Normal Mode: Nothing. Toyota tells us absolutely zip, zero, nada, about Normal Mode. If it’s that unimportant, then why should I care? It’s probably just like driving a Corolla.
Did I say “active differential?” Why yes, yes I did! If you have already screwed around with a car with an active differential, then you will need no convincing that they are a thing of wonderment. The new Supra should turn-in like a snake. Toyota has set it up so an electric motor and multi-plate clutches within the diff control lateral torque. And, as you would expect, this active diff controls torque distribution while cornering.
End result: Greater momentum through a corner, higher speeds, and lower track times.
The active differential controls torque distribution between the rear wheels, under acceleration and braking, for more precise cornering. The active differential also reduces understeer and oversteer. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Essential Foundations: Supra’s Chassis & Structure
The chassis is a classic setup, with structural rigidity, a low center of gravity, and 50:50 weight distribution among the focal points. There’s heavy steel bracing throughout. In fact, nine areas of the rear structure were identified as points to reinforce, which ultimately increase the Supra’s rigidity and neutral balance.
From there, Toyota specified the tuning for the new, double-joint spring strut front and multi-link rear suspension. Further, Toyota says the front subframe and control arm mounting points increase rigidity, while the aluminum control arms reduce unsprung weight. Standard is an Adaptive Variable Suspension system that immediately adjusts damping in response to driver input and road conditions.
The electric power steering is variable-assist, variable-ratio, and sport-tuned for precise handling.
Standard 19-inch forged alloy wheels include 255/35R19 tires up front, and 275/35R19 meats in the back. Said tires are Michelin Pilot Super Sports. Whoaing all this up comes by way of four-piston Brembo calipers, clamping on 13.7-inch rotors at the front.
2020 Toyota Supra Launch Edition. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Pricing & Availability
The 2020 Toyota Supra will be available in two grades, the 3.0 and 3.0 Premium, as well as a Launch Edition based on the 3.0 Premium grade. Colors include Renaissance Red 2.0, Nitro Yellow, Downshift Blue, Phantom Matte Gray, Absolute Zero White, Tungsten Silver, Turbulence Gray, and Nocturnal Black.
Expect the new Supra this summer for a starting MSRP of $50,920. The initial 1,500 Launch Edition models start at $56,180. The 2020 Toyota Supra will be assembled at Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria.
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.
2020 Toyota Supra
Model #
MSRP
Trim Levels & Starting MSRP
*Includes $930 Destination Fee

3.0
2372
$50,920
3.0 Premium
2374
$54,920
Launch Edition
2375
$56,180
2020 Toyota Supra Gallery

Photos & Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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2019 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring Review: Quiet & Confident

2019 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring Review: Quiet & Confident 90SOLID 2019 Mazda CX-9 Grand TouringOverall Impression Quiet CabinSmooth RideStylish DesignProsLuxurious InteriorAbundant FeaturesAll-Wheel Drive CapabilityConsVisibility At TimesHeadroom & Cargo CapacityThe 2019 Mazda CX-9 offers up three-row seating, abundant features, and plenty of safety tech for growing families. But it’s the driving dynamics that set this family hauler apart from other seven-passenger SUVs. Mazda wants you to “feel alive” when you drive their vehicles and they aren’t just blowing smoke.
Over the weekend, we took the 2019 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring with all-wheel drive for a spin.
What’s New For 2019
The Mazda CX-9 gets Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a retuned suspension for a smoother ride, and a new surround-view parking camera.
Features & Options: Grand Touring Adds Many
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring ($42,640) comes standard with automatic headlights and wipers, heated mirrors, a power liftgate, keyless ignition and entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a universal garage door opener. Comfort features include heated, power-adjustable front seats and leather upholstery. Connectivity features include the eight-inch infotainment display and two USB ports in the second-row center armrest.
The Grand Touring also adds more safety features, including automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.
The Grand Touring trim further dresses things up with 20-inch wheels, adaptive headlights, LED fog lights, roof rails, a sunroof, front and rear parking sensors, a heads-up display with traffic sign recognition, and a digital gauge cluster. Drivers are treated to ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel, while rear passengers receive retractable sunshades and heated seats. The Grand Touring goes further yet, with aluminum interior trim, ambient lighting, navigation, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system.
Total MSRP including destination: $45,310.

2019 Mazda CX-9
Front-Wheel Drive
All-Wheel Drive
Standard Features
Trim Levels & Starting MSRP

Sport
$32,280
$34,080
Rear-Cross Traffic Alert
Touring
$35,330
$37,130
Leather / Heated Front Seats
Grand Touring
$40,380
$42,640
Heated Second Row Seats
Signature
NA
$45,365
Santos Rosewood Trim
Interior Highlights: Luxurious & Comfortable
Comfortable and inviting are the two best words to describe the cabin of the CX-9 Grand Touring. This trim makes liberal use of soft-touch materials on the inside. The fit and finish is tight, and the material quality is the best among three-row crossovers. The CX-9 feels larger than it looks with plenty of room for taller adults.
The front seats are extra comfy. They won’t leave you tired at the end of the day, as we found on two longer trips through the high country. The interior is ideal for stressful commutes, or for taking the family on a trip to the mountains for a weekend ski trip. During our weekend drive, the heated seats and newly-added heated steering wheel were nice to have.
The second row will easily accommodate two adults, while the third row is ideal for kids. The front and rear doors are relatively short and we found ourselves hitting our heads when we got out. The raked design has drawbacks when it comes to headroom. When it comes to cargo space, the CX-9 will hold as much as most families will need, although it’s less than competing SUVs and crossovers. The power liftgate did make it easy to load the extra cargo we had, however.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. of torque. Fill up with premium and the horsepower jumps to 250. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic; all-wheel drive is optional and came on our CX-9 tester.
EPA fuel mileage estimates are 20/26 city/highway and 23 combined mpg. When compared to similar vehicles, the 2019 Mazda CX-9 is ahead of the curve in terms of fuel economy.
Driving Dynamics: Limited Visibility But Solid Handling
We think the 2019 Mazda CX-9 drives and handles much smaller than its actual size. It has Mazda’s sporty nature, which driving enthusiasts will appreciate. It’s nimble in city traffic and has a smoother, more confident ride than previous models. The cabin is especially quiet due to the raked body style with very little wind noise even at 75 mph. The one chief complaint we do have with the cabin is how visibility is limited due to the CX-9’s raked design.
On the mountain roads west of Denver this weekend, we experienced some body lean, but overall, the CX-9 powers around the tight curves with little effort. Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control actually adjusts power delivery, subtly shifting the CX-9’s weight throughout the turn, thereby reducing the need for steering corrections.

Driving Dynamics: Good For Winter
On the open road, the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine has more snap than you might think for its size. The new CX-9 has no trouble passing slower traffic, even at altitude in the rarefied air near Evergreen, Colorado. We had no issues accelerating quickly when merging into traffic. The six-speed automatic with Sport Mode is smooth and executes quick shifts when you need the extra boost.
We had a light snowstorm hit the west side of Denver and the all-wheel drive worked flawlessly. We had no trouble on the slick roads either.
Lastly, we found the low-speed automatic emergency braking feature useful in congested traffic.
Conclusion: An Ideal Choice For Families
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring delivers a driving experience not replicated by many three-row SUVs today. Those who need the space for commuting with the family, especially on snow-packed roads, will find the CX-9 will meet their needs. You might even find yourself having fun behind the wheel, as we did while doing this review.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring Gallery

Photos: Mazda North American Operations.

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2019 Chevy Corvette ZR1 Scores Record Lap In Virginia (Video)

2019 Chevy Corvette ZR1 Scores Record Lap In Virginia (Video) The 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 arrives this spring and fans will likely be jazzed at the latest news concerning the bowtie’s pinnacle performance car. The 2019 ZR1 recently scored a record lap time on the 4.1-mile Grand Course West at Virginia International Raceway with a time of 2:37.25.
“The Corvette ZR1’s lap record at VIR, arguably America’s most challenging road course, is a testament to its supercar status,” said Mark Reuss, GM Executive Vice President, Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain.
Icing On The Cake
The record lap at VIR was set last month during routine validation and performance testing. The stock ZR1 was configured per the standard track and aerodynamic settings recommended by the owner’s manual. The ZR1 was finalizing its 24 hours of at-limit track testing, with multiple GM Performance engineers logging laps, including vehicle dynamics engineer Jim Mero who set the record.
“The track had been empty since mid-December, so it was a bit slow when we started, but the conditions turned pretty quick at the end,” explained Alex MacDonald, Manager, Chevrolet Vehicle Performance. “On the heels of announcing our Z06 time of 2:39.77, the ZR1 lap time is the icing on the cake.”
Power & Performance
The ZR1’s LT5 6.2L supercharged V8 is the most powerful production Chevy engine yet, complete with 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft. of torque. The engine also features GM’s first application of a dual-fuel-injection system, which includes direct injection (primary) and port injection (secondary). The engine is paired to either a seven-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. The latter was equipped to the record-setting ZR1 at VIR.
The new ZR1 features a larger, 2.65-liter supercharger that generates more boost but spins slightly slower when compared to the LT4 engine of the prior generation. This reduces heat and parasitic loss while lowering air intake temperatures for better performance. There are 13 radiators total, four of which are new to facilitate cooling between the engine oil, transmission, and differential.
Photo: Richard Prince/Chevrolet.
Vital Equipment
The record-setting ZR1 was also equipped with five-point harnesses, a harness bar, track seats, and the ZTK Performance Package, which includes an adjustable carbon-fiber High Wing, a front splitter with carbon-fiber end caps, Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 summer-only tires, and specific chassis and Magnetic Ride Control tuning. Helping control the ZR1 around VIR for the record lap was a unique, hybrid material Brembo braking system.
“On the racetrack, the ZR1 can compete with any supercar – at any price,” Reuss said.
“It’s not too often you set a lap record during validation testing,” MacDonald added.
When it arrives the spring, the 2019 Chevy Corvette ZR1 will start at $119,995, with the ZTK Performance Package going for $2,995.
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, Video & Source: Chevrolet.

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OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts: What Are The Differences & Which One Should You Buy?

OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts: What Are The Differences & Which One Should You Buy? As we strive to be responsible citizens and practice social distancing, we’ve pivoted to shopping exclusively online for many things we traditionally look for at brick-and-mortar stores. If you’re needing to tackle some DIY maintenance while staying home, or interested in upgrading some of your vehicle’s components, you will come across two types of parts while shopping online: original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket.

Before you start browsing and filling your virtual cart, let’s tackle a few questions to better understand each type.

Difference Between OEM & Aftermarket Parts

An OEM part is made by the same company that supplies the vehicle manufacturer’s factory. Historically, you could only get OEM parts through authorized dealerships. They were the go-to for everyday consumers as well as purists who wanted exact replacement parts for their vehicle. However, in recent years, OEM parts have become available through other retail stores and online via third-party sellers.

On the other hand, an aftermarket part is a component manufactured to appear and function just like the OEM part, but is made by a company competing with the OEM supplier. They’ve always been available at brick-and-mortar auto parts stores, but aftermarket parts rose in popularity because of e-commerce retailers.

Hobbyists flocked to online stores to explore alternative replacement parts, many of which offered unique and custom variations that weren’t available through the original manufacturer.

Are Aftermarket Parts Less Expensive?

Although not a hard and fast rule, in general, aftermarket parts are less expensive as most retailers strive to offer a competitive alternative. How much less expensive, though, will depend on the type of part and its availability. It’s not unusual to see different pricing tiers for aftermarket parts, based on value, so shoppers can easily browse for parts that are within their budget.

Pricing for aftermarket offerings will also vary depending on the retailer, with some retailers willing to offer discounts, and others adding larger markups. If you’re looking for a good deal, research is key.

Related: Should you buy car parts online? A complete buyer’s guide. Are Aftermarket Parts of Lower Quality?

Years ago, when the aftermarket first started to compete with OEM suppliers, some vendors may have compromised quality to be price-competitive. This was often done to win customers who were historically loyal to OEM suppliers.

Today, much of the aftermarket realizes the importance of quality, and you can find options from many sellers that are close competitors to their OEM counterparts. In fact, there are even some large aftermarket suppliers who have made it a selling point to state that their aftermarket components are superior to OEM ones, particularly if those OEM parts have known issues.

Is There a Risk of Counterfeit Parts?

In this day and age, sadly, there is always that risk. Think about how there are knock-off watches, sunglasses, and handbags. Auto parts, unfortunately, fall into a similar situation. Airbags, brake pads, wheels, electrical components, and various other engine and drivetrain components are among the parts most commonly at risk.

The amount of counterfeit auto parts continues to rise, despite government and industry efforts worldwide to quell the activity.

How Do I Know It’s a Fake Part?

Keep an eye out for poor quality, misspellings, and wrong colors. When shopping online, look for listings that include several high-quality photos and detailed descriptions that include exact specifications.

One way to avoid counterfeit parts is by purchasing from reputable companies and re-sellers, preferably those that include reviews and have a dedicated customer service team available to you while you’re browsing.

OEM or Aftermarket Parts: Which One Is Best?

In some cases, there isn’t a choice! For newer cars, or for parts which are more expensive or in lower demand, OEM may be the only choice if the aftermarket has not yet offered any options. With an OEM part, you are also guaranteed an exact replacement of what was originally included on your vehicle, which will fit perfectly. For some purists, this is incredibly important and worth any cost discrepancy.

On the other hand, for obsolete brands or older vehicles, OEM support may have ended and the part you need might be hard to find. Dealers may now keep very few (if any) in stock, or the parts you need are scattered around the country, resulting in order and repair delays. In these instances, the aftermarket might provide you the parts you need more easily.

Best Practices When Shopping for Auto Parts

If a consumer does have a choice between OEM and aftermarket parts, the smart shopper makes a decision after looking at brand reputation, perceived quality, warranty, and availability, in addition to price. When shopping for car parts, you want to make sure you’ve done all your research and selected the right option that factors in budget, lifestyle, and safety.

The good news is, consumers and hobbyists alike have more options than ever for car parts, and they can all be accessed from the comfort of your own home. Between OEM and aftermarket parts, once you’ve weighed all the factors and your personal preferences, the choice is yours!

Richard Reina is the Product Training Director for CARiD.com, and Automoblog’s resident expert on the classic and collector car market. He enjoys restoring and driving old cars with a special love for anything Italian. Richard is also passionate about music and is a huge Beatles fan.
Original article: OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts: What Are The Differences & Which One Should You Buy?

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Toyota Issues Recall For Certain Prius And Lexus Vehicles

Toyota Issues Recall For Certain Prius And Lexus Vehicles Toyota Motor North America, Inc. has announced a safety recall in the United States of approximately 49,000 model year 2016 Prius and Lexus RX vehicles, and model year 2015 and 2016 Lexus NX vehicles. Toyota says the vehicles have air bag systems where an open circuit could be created over time. If this were to occur, the air bag warning light will illuminate and the side and curtain shield air bags and/or front air bags may not deploy.
This may increase the risk of injury to the occupants in the event of a crash.
Further Information
For all involved vehicles, dealers will inspect the serial number of the sensors and replace them with new ones, if necessary, at no cost. All known owners will receive a notification by first-class mail starting in late March. Toyota, Lexus, and Scion owners are encouraged to check and see if their vehicle is under this or any other outstanding recalls. Similar information is available through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration here.
Toyota is encouraging those with additional questions to contact Toyota Customer Service at 1-800-331-4331, or Lexus Customer Service at 1-800-255-3987.

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Ford Raptor Coloring Book Provides Family Fun (And It’s Free)

Ford Raptor Coloring Book Provides Family Fun (And It’s Free)

The older I get, the more I sometimes miss childhood. And it’s funny, becasue when I was a kid, I could not wait to grow up. Naturally, I was going to do whatever I wanted, eat whatever I felt like, and I was never, under any circumstances, going to take a nap. Adults, in my young mind, had all the fun; why my parents, teachers, and neighbors said “oh, don’t be in a hurry to grow up” was always beyond me.
Raptors & Crayolas
A few years ago, a friend mentioned her collection of adult coloring books, a newer but increasing trend with proven therapeutic benefits. She said it was a way for her to balance adulthood with her inner child. A recent Raptor coloring booklet from Blue Springs Ford Parts has us thinking it’s time to get a box of crayons for around the office. The coloring booklet is free and features two profile shots of the Ford Raptor, and two of the truck canvassing rough terrain.
What color will your Raptor be? This is one of the pages from the new Raptor coloring booklet released by Blue Springs Ford Parts.
Good Therapy
In 2005, Dr. Tim Kasser, Professor and Chair of Psychology at Knox College and student Nancy Curry co-authored Can Coloring Mandalas Reduce Anxiety. Their research showed adults who color before a stressful event may reduce any anxiety stemming from said event. Both Dr. Kasser and Curry say coloring is a healthy activity and can provide adults a welcome break from the computer or e-mail account. The Raptor booklet from Blue Springs Ford Parts can also be enjoyed by the whole family.
“I know one thing – my kids love it,” explained Kyle Harris, Director at Blue Springs Ford Parts. “Every kid I know loves trucks, and every truck enthusiast I know loves the Raptor.”
The free Ford Raptor coloring booklet is available now. Blue Springs Ford Parts is a top-rated retailer of OEM Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury replacements parts, with online ordering offered 24 hours a day.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Cover Photo: Ford Motor Company.

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