Automotive

2019 Cadillac CT6 V-Sport: A New Species Emerges

2019 Cadillac CT6 V-Sport: A New Species Emerges Cadillac has unveiled the 2019 CT6 V-Sport, the first-ever V-Performance version of its top sedan. The new CT6 V-Sport actually coincides with an ongoing makeover of the entire CT6 lineup; said makeover will usher in the design cues first seen on the Escala Concept. With the new CT6 V-Sport, Cadillac is definitely swinging for the fences.
“The CT6 V-Sport was developed for driving enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds: a high-performance sports sedan and a luxury car with all the comforts and technology that come with it,” said Lyndon Lie, CT6 Chief Engineer.
Power & Performance
The CT6 V-Sport is not the car you want to make angry at a stop light. Under the hood is a new 4.2-liter Twin Turbo V8, Cadillac’s first engine of this kind in its history. It’s described as a “clean-sheet design” in a performance-oriented and mass-efficient package. This is best seen in what Cadillac refers to as the “hot V” residing at the center of the engine. The setup is another first for Cadillac.
The configuration transposes the conventional layout of the cylinder heads’ intake and exhaust systems, with the turbochargers mounted at the top of the engine, or “in the valley between the heads.” This, according to Cadillac, cuts turbo lag and reduces the engine’s overall packaging size. There are a lot of things one could say about the CT6 V-Sport but the engine is one of the car’s strongest character traits.
“It is the centerpiece of the new CT6 V-Sport, an engaging sport sedan infused with the DNA of Cadillac’s world-renowned and championship-winning motorsports program,” explained Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. “Cadillac V-Sport is the embodiment of our passion to deliver an exhilarating driving experience without compromises.”
Horsepower is estimated at or around the 550 range, with torque coming in at about 630 lb-ft. A mechanically-controlled limited-slip rear differential increases traction and performance, especially while on the track.
“With its lightweight architecture, an all-new Cadillac Twin Turbo V8, coupled with the tightened suspension and revised AWD torque split, we’ve enhanced the CT6 to be well-balanced and capable in all conditions,” Lie added.
Photo: Cadillac.
Transmission Tech
The new engine is matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission (10L90 Hydra-Matic). The 7.39 overall gear ratio spread enhances off-the-line performance but lowers engine speeds on the highway for efficiency. Narrow steps between the gear ratios help create maximum power at nearly any speed.
Ride & Handling
Cadillac didn’t give many details but expect an enhanced variation of GM’s evergreen Magnetic Ride Control. The steering has been “re-mapped” for more dynamic feedback, while an Active Rear Steer feature was added. There is also a list of “track-focused” stability controls, although Cadillac did not elaborate as to what they were. The V-Sport is modified with “specific suspension tuning” for improved roll control and cornering capability. Cadillac again did not elaborate, unfortunately.
19-inch Brembo brakes were developed specifically for the CT6, complete with performance linings and air deflectors that direct air to cool the brakes during aggressive driving.
Photo: Cadillac.
Connectivity & Technology
V-Sport aside, CT6 buyers can expect a lot (and we mean a lot) of in-vehicle tech. Cadillac’s in-car system reacts similar to a smartphone, so getting onto it should be relatively easy. The system’s central display is a 10-inch diagonal interface and can be updated over time to meet a customer’s connectivity needs, should they change. It leverages the cloud and an available 4G LTE connection to enable a number of personalized infotainment choices like navigation or news. The rear-seat infotainment system even has media inputs through USB, HDMI, or Wi-Fi connections to a phone.
Other tech features for the CT6 include the Rear Camera Mirror which has zoom and tilt functions, and a Surround Vision Recorder that provides 360 degrees of recording when the security system is activated. Naturally, the Cadillac CT6 has a wide range of driver aids like Front Pedestrian Braking, Rear Pedestrian Detection, and Night Vision.
Pricing & Availability
Cadillac has not disclosed either, just that the CT6 V-Sport is coming for the 2019 model year. The vehicle will be built at Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly in Hamtramck, Michigan.
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.
2019 Cadillac CT6 V-Sport Gallery

Photos & Source: Cadillac.

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Letter From The UK: Two British Legends & The Pleasure Of Your Company

Letter From The UK: Two British Legends & The Pleasure Of Your Company

Fish. Some folk like to eat fish and some don’t. Those that do are often enthusiastic about their preference and in the UK, fish eaters mostly love the humble and inoffensive cod. Mild of flavor and flaky of texture, this once abundant fish has been a staple meal-to-go for the truly hungry Brit.
The British like it deep-fried in batter and served with sliced fried potatoes called chips. Additionally, the we might like some “mushy peas” (don’t ask) all liberally sprinkled with salt and brown vinegar. It all stems from being a sea-faring island nation, I guess.
Cod stocks are running low and once, some years ago, we even went to “war” with those slippery Icelanders up in the Arctic Circle who tried to hold back the basis of our national dish. We sent a gunboat. I’m pretty sure they got the message. Right about now I’ll bet you’re thinking, “say Geoff; this is all very well and interesting and stuff but what has it to do with cars exactly?”
Well, I’m getting to it now . . .
Arguably the finest vehicle in the world is the Range Rover. As good on the blacktop as it is brilliant on the rough stuff. Now, the Range Rover has been tried and tested for years so there is no point in flogging away at a detailed review here. Everyone already knows how brilliant and capable this legendary car is in its various iterations, so instead, we’ll go on a trip to the glorious English county of Devonshire, home of traditional afternoon teas with scones, jam, and thick dairy cream, to visit Babbacombe.
Cruising For Fish & Chips
My wife and I like to travel the land in search of the finest fish and chips. The coastal town Whitby for example, in the county of Yorkshire, has two fine establishments and is also the port where Dracula first landed in Victorian England. The dark ruins of Whitby Abbey still stand sentinel over the town.
On this occasion though, we loaded up a shiny Range Rover Vogue SE on loan to us from the company. With all the extras fitted, the car costs the thick end of £100k but, in use, it feels more like a million dollars. Comfortable, roomy, and safe at any speed.
Powering up the V6 3.0-liter diesel, we traveled to the once quaint coastal village of Babbacombe to sample the delights of that other British legend: fish & chips with the optional mushy peas, served to perfection at Hanbury’s, the famous and award-winning take-out and restaurant.
Despite one annoying traffic tailback and some biblical British rain, our drive was relatively trouble free. We were able to watch the countryside change as we headed into the stormy distance, and to the beautiful, rain-washed West Country.
Hanbury’s is known for their famous fish and chips. The restaurant is located near Babbacombe Downs. Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.
The Method
For a car the size of Penn Station, the Range Rover really handles well, dispatching major routes with disdain and tackling narrow country lanes with more agility than you might expect. On the go, the Range Rover feels precise, inspiring driver confidence and allowing accurate placing on the road. There are many candidates for the role of Off-Road King but, like an aging lion protecting his pride, the Range Rover continues to fight off all-comers.
It really is that good.
You can get it with a V8 and in the USA I would, but here on the crowded, broken roads of the UK, I’d say the good old V6 diesel is all that’s needed. Put the foot down and let the eight-speed auto do its work as the legal limit comes at you swiftly and quietly, like an automotive ninja. A V8 will do it faster but will obviously use more precious fuel.
The Range Rover is a very quiet and refined car. It’s particularly impressive cruising at high speeds. It really does an excellent job of isolating you from the elements, thanks in part to an acoustically laminated windscreen that’s standard on all versions.
Inside it is the epitome of comfort. Certainly some things are starting to look a bit dated but it is still a pleasure to drive. The lofty driving position commands the road. As good as it ever was, 2017 is seeing new additions to the range of Rovers available. SVR or Velar anyone?
Our Range Rover took the heavy rain and long journey in stride. Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.

The Reason
Babbacombe, with its twin beaches, used to be a lovely little stand-alone coastal village on the South Devon. Now it is more like a suburb of nearby Torquay, a bigger, brasher town.
It is sadly true to say the British seaside resorts, once packed with happy holiday makers, are now but a shadow of their former glories, thanks to global travel.
Resorts like Babbacombe still retain a gentile air though, and this small seaside village continues to boast a theater, and a famous funicular railway to manage the steep climb up from the beaches. We stayed at the Downs Hotel on Babbacombe Downs run by friendly and obliging owners. And very good it is too. We had a balcony from which we could overlook the great sweep of the bay and the open sea beyond.
Our ultimate mission was to sample the fare at the aforementioned Hanbury’s, the award-winning fish and chips emporium. My goodness it was good. I am drooling like Homer Simpson at the memory.
When it comes to this Great British delicacy, I am not easily pleased, seeing myself as something of a connoisseur. Feeling peckish, I ordered the Hanbury Jumbo Cod. Ever wondered what happened when they freed Willy? I think I’ve eaten him. With shame I admit the meal beat me. Our server removed the giant platter doing her best not to sneer at my pathetic appetite.
Babbacombe Downs in the early morning. Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.
Why Take A Trip To The UK?
Despite the fact that all other Europeans now hate us and we are about to go it alone, the UK still has a huge amount to offer visitors from the USA. All you need is a rental car and, to make it official, a reason for coming. Traditional British fish and chips from carefully selected establishments is reason enough. We have beaches, woodlands, stately homes, castles, lakes, culture, and lashings of ginger beer.
We’d love to have your company. Also, if the truth be told, we could really use a bunch of your American dollars. Do come.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite

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Lurento: A Luxury Car Rental Marketplace Focused On Service

Lurento: A Luxury Car Rental Marketplace Focused On Service When you place “Italian” in front on things, it usually adds an element of luxury, status, and class. An Italian wedding or Italian cuisine sound magnificent and delightful, while Italian design or Italian influence is regal and poised.
The same is true arguably for an Italian vacation. Sounds exciting right? Perhaps a trip to Rome to see the remnants of the gladiators at The Colosseum, or to Florence for Renaissance art; perhaps Venice with its majestic canals has always been your dream? And all of that sounds so much better when paired with an Italian car, like a Ferrari or Lamborghini.
Disclosure: This article is sponsored by Lurento. All views and opinions expressed here are my own. Check out our advertising guidelines to see why we’d never steer you wrong.
Touch of Class
We took an instant liking to Lurento when we learned about them. They truly understand what it takes to compliment the perfect getaway with friends or an important business trip with your associates. Lurento is a luxury car rental marketplace. Their selection of luxury and sports cars are the best in the business, and are available in many European countries. Lurento offers high-end vehicles you won’t find anywhere else when it comes to planning your destination, be it for business or pleasure.
Lurento started in 2015 and their marketplace launched last November. Founder Mihailo Dhoric saw a need for more than just luxury cars, however. He wants customers to have a genuine connection and meaningful experience. This is something we appreciated a great deal after meeting Dhoric and learning about Lurento.
“The market is very specific with a lot of players, but customer-wise there is no good solution,” he said. “This is why we have full customer support and cars are delivered 24/7, wherever they want.”
Those traveling on tight schedules for business will definitely appreciate Lurento’s services.
“We’re flexible about late returns and we accommodate almost any request,” Dhoric said.
Lurento can make arrangements for long-term rentals, professional chauffeur services, and other special occasions. Photo: Lurento.
Customer Focused
Since renting an exotic or luxury car can take time, Lurento has simplified and streamlined the process accordingly. It’s shorter with direct customer support, and everything is transparent. For example, Lurento’s clients receive everything ahead of time, from original photos of the car to the rates. When it comes to renting an exotic, finding a reliable company, getting all the correct information, the lengthy booking process, and high prices with broker agencies can sour the experience. Lurento negotiates the rates and all fees (extra miles, additional drivers, security deposit etc.) so there are no surprises, and customers get the best price possible.
Lurento’s clientele includes every type of individual from leisure travelers and business executives, to athletes, celebrities, and other notable figures. Some customers simply want to sightsee throughout Europe at their own pace and enjoy the drive. Others are traveling on business and want an element of performance and luxury for their trip. This wide ranging yet unique customer base has given Lurento a specific advantage when it comes to providing top notch service.
“People expect a premium service when they pay for luxury cars,” Dhoric explained.
Those traveling with their spouses on romantic getaways and seniors enjoying their retirement also utilize Lurento.
“We never let anyone down,” Dhoric added.
Lurento offers some of the world’s finest automobiles like this Bentley Flying Spur. Photo: Lurento.
World-Class Cars
When it comes to selection, Lurento offers everything from luxury vans and convertibles, to sedans and sports cars. Their executive section features the BMW 7 Series, Bentley Flying Spur, and Maserati Quattroporte, among others. Lurento’s sports car section will really get your imagination running, especially if you love Ferraris. Cars like the 458 Italia, F12 Berlinetta, and LaFerrari are available, and some Ferrari models can even be rented if you are under 21.
Top speed, horsepower, and acceleration times are listed for each car Lurento offers. Clicking on the image brings up a page that shows additional performance information about that particular car. Lurento also has a large network of partners in Europe so even if the car you want is unavailable, you often can get the same model or a similar alternative.
The booking process is safe for both customers and suppliers, and is a vital part of Lurento’s mission. Each vehicle listed through Lurento has a supplier rating included, based solely on client reviews, so you know ahead of time what to expect.
“The booking process is fully secured for you, your event, or your group,” Dhoric said.
Whether it’s driving a Ferrari around the Italian countryside, blasting across the German Autobahn in an Audi R8, or rolling around London in a Rolls Royce, Lurento has you covered when you need a luxury rental car service in Europe.
“We have the best selection of vehicles and transparent pricing,” Dhoric said. “Instead of searching online and spending time emailing and calling, you have Lurento.”

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Inside The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback

Inside The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Hot hatch fever is going around and Toyota has caught the bug! Meet the 2019 Corolla Hatchback in advance of its debut at the upcoming New York International Auto Show. Toyota says the Corolla Hatchback has “flair extraordinaire” and indeed that seems to be the case, especially in that bright blue. The new Corolla Hatchback has Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa connectivity, a revised sport-tuned suspension, and a host of advanced safety features.
Platform & Architecture
The 2019 Corolla Hatchback resides on the automaker’s TNGA C platform, also referred to as Toyota’s New Global Architecture. The compact structure employs a mixture of adhesives, spot welding, and additional bracing to boost fuel economy and on-road stability. The platform makes use of aluminum and high- and ultra-high tensile strength steels, improving torsional rigidity by 60 percent when compared to its predecessor, the Corolla iM. Likewise, the new hatchback is lower by an inch, wider by 1.2 inches, and longer by 1.5 inches.
Toyota uses a number of sound-absorbing materials, sealants, foams, resonator ribs, and silencers to reduce unwanted cabin noise. The actual hatch is made from Toyota’s Super Olefin Polymer and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene – both materials are lightweight to help with fuel efficiency. The hatch was moved 14 degrees forward for a more sporty look.
Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Power & Performance
The new Corolla Hatchback should be a responsive little machine with its 2.0-liter Dynamic-Force inline four engine. Complete with direct injection, it’s smaller and lighter than the 1.8-liter it replaces. A more rigid crank case with an integrated stiffener, a lighter resin cylinder head, and a ribbed oil pan further reduce unwanted noise and vibrations.
The engine, known in Toyota-speak as M20A-FKS, has the automaker’s latest D-4S fuel-injection technology. The system uses high-pressure direct-injection and low-pressure Port Fuel Injection, and can adapt the injection cycle based on driving conditions so ideal combustion is always achieved. The engine also features Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence) on the exhaust side and VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence by Electric motor) on the intake side. VVT-iE uses an electric motor instead of oil pressure to control the variable valve timing. Together, the systems enhance power output and fuel mileage, but cut emissions.
Although horsepower and torque figures are forthcoming, Toyota put a laundry list of work into the new engine. For example, the valve nip angle has been enlarged and the stroke is longer. Toyota says these changes, along with laser clad valve seats, provide higher compression and air intake volumes. Similarly, the pistons with their rounded top surface and slanted side walls reduce knocking and friction, but keep compression high. Toyota also notes the high-strength steel connecting rods, lighter timing chain, and how each cylinder receives three separate oil jets.
Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Transmission Tech
Like the engine, the Dynamic-Shift CVT received an extensive amount of work. It emulates a 10-speed, has a sport mode and paddle shifters, and comes with a slick feature known as a “launch gear.” Toyota says this helps in lower gear ratios where belt efficiency is typically poor in a CVT. Essentially, the transmission utilizes something called “gear drive” for stronger acceleration from a stop. The belt angle was narrowed and the pulley diameters reduced, creating 20 percent quicker shifts.
Drivers can also opt for a six-speed manual gearbox with downshift rev-matching control.
Ride & Handling
The car’s front MacPherson setup has been tweaked – i.e. updated bound stopper clearance and stabilizer locations – while other modifications include a revised coil spring rate and damping force. At the rear are updated shock absorbers and springs, and like the front, the geometry is slightly modified. Lower arm locations have moved for improved toe-in angles at higher speeds, and the shock absorbers have moved forward for better cargo capacity.
Toyota also took measures to reduce friction (by 40 percent) in all the sliding parts.
Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
In-Car Technology
A high-resolution, eight-inch multimedia touchscreen houses the vehicle settings, audio controls, navigation, smartphone functions, and the Entune 3.0 apps. The premium Entune package adds an eight-speaker, 800-watt JBL stereo with Clari-Fi, voice recognition, navigation, and various search and connect features. The JBL stereo is really cool with its A-Pillar mounted tweeters and 6.7-inch door subwoofers. Wireless phone charging is a nice added bonus.
The second generation of Toyota Safety Sense is also standard.
In Person & Availability
The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback will arrive this summer with the pricing information due in the near future. Expect to see it, in the meantime, at the 2018 New York International Auto Show, which opens to the public on Friday, March 30th.
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.
2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Gallery

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

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Ford & Mahindra To Develop SUVs, Electric Vehicles & Connected Car Technologies

Ford & Mahindra To Develop SUVs, Electric Vehicles & Connected Car Technologies Ford Motor Company and the Mahindra Group have signed five agreements to develop new SUVs and small electric vehicles. Ford and Mahindra announced their strategic partnership in September of 2017, saying both companies were focusing on mobility programs, connected vehicle initiatives, and electrification strategies. The partnership will also explore sourcing and commercial efficiencies, and product development in general. Ford hopes to gain traction in India as well, an emerging automotive market.
“Ford is committed to offering the best vehicles, technologies, and services that fit the lifestyles and preferences of Indian consumers,” said Jim Farley, Ford Executive Vice President and President of Global Markets.
Joint Development Plans

Under these latest initiatives, Mahindra and Ford will co-develop a midsize SUV both companies can sell independently as separate brands. The forthcoming SUV will be built on a Mahindra platform but both will explore sharing powertrain portfolios. The two companies will also examine the possibility of developing a compact SUV and an electric vehicle, along with a range of connected car technologies.
“Listening to our customers and incorporating their future needs is the core premise of this collaboration,” Farley added. “With utility vehicles and electrification as key focus areas, we are glad to see the progress our two companies have made.”
Ford EcoSport, Goa, India. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Continued Expansion
Overall, the strategic alliance will leverage Ford’s global reach and Mahindra’s scale in India. Ford entered India in 1995 and remains one of the country’s largest exporters. India is also the second-largest Ford employee base globally, with more than 14,000 working across the Ford India or Global Business Services operations in New Delhi, Chennai, and Coimbator. Likewise, Mahindra has lead the utility vehicles segment in India for seven decades. The Mumbai-based manufacturer owns a majority stake in the Ssangyong Motor Company in Korea, and has invested in ridesharing platforms in the United States.
“Both teams are working together on joint development areas in keeping with industry requirements and leveraging mutual strengths,” explained Dr. Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd. “We are excited about the synergies unveiled through this collaboration and the potential opportunities it will bring.”
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company, Mahindra.

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Black Is The New Black: GMC Special Editions Coming

Black Is The New Black: GMC Special Editions Coming GMC fans will receive a new trim package later this year. The 2019 Terrain and Acadia Black Editions give buyers a little extra flare from the factory. The GMC Black Editions arose after company officials reviewed internal data showing roughly one in five new SUV buyers spends extra money to personalize their vehicle.
“The new Terrain and Acadia Black Editions perfectly capture the identity of the GMC brand by offering a bold and confident exterior appearance,” explained Duncan Aldred, Vice President of Global GMC. “They give our customers more choices within the premium SUV segment to distinguish their vehicle and themselves.”
As the name would suggest, the Black Editions are characterized by their darkened exterior treatments.
Terrain Black Edition
Available on SLE and SLT grades, the package includes 19-inch gloss black aluminum wheels and a darkened grille insert. There are black mirror caps, roof rails, and badging, along with other exterior accents. The 2019 GMC Terrain Black Edition will be offered in five colors: Ebony Twilight Metallic, Summit White, Graphite Gray Metallic, and Satin Steel Metallic. A new Sedona Metallic will be available later on.
Acadia Black Edition
Available on SLT grades, the package features 20-inch machined aluminum wheels with black accents, a black grille insert, and black headlamp and taillamp details. Similar to the Terrain, the Acadia Black Edition comes in five colors: Ebony Twilight Metallic, Summit White, and White Frost Tricoat. Dark Sky Metallic and Smokey Quartz Metallic are new for 2019.
Pricing & Availability
The GMC Black Editions will be available this summer. GMC has not yet announced pricing, although expect it to be competitive relative to other special edition SUVs on the market. GMC crossovers were up 19 percent in February alone, with the Terrain posting a 17 percent year-over-year increase, and the Acadia was up 22 percent.
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.
Photo & Source: GMC.

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These Very Stylish Infiniti Vehicles Are Headed To The Big Apple

These Very Stylish Infiniti Vehicles Are Headed To The Big Apple Infiniti will roll into the New York International Auto Show with two specially-equipped SUVs. The 2019 QX60 and QX80 Limited will have more premium appointments than their non-Limited counterparts, and will serve to bolster sales for both product lines. Infiniti has been making the rounds on this year’s auto show circuit, showcasing their SUVs in particular.
The automaker says the Limited versions of the QX60 and QX80 have treatments that were “designed to make a statement.” Here is a rundown of what those treatments are – it’s up to you if they actually make a statement.
2019 QX60 Limited
The QX60, already one of Infiniti’s top sellers, receives a dark chrome front grille and fog lamp finishers in its Limited skin. The roof rails and cross bar have a darker coat of premium paint, and the rear bumper is covered in a gloss black tint. A “Limited” rear badge denotes this QX60 from the rest of the pack as it rides on 20-inch dark aluminum-alloy wheels.
Luxury treatments on the inside include leather-wrapped grab handles, dark silver wood accents, and a black headliner and pillars. All three rows feature a stone-colored semi-aniline leather with quilting, perforation, and contrast stitching and piping. It even comes with special floor and cargo mats with metal logos. Why? Because Limited!
Like all QX60s, the Limited is powered by a 3.5-liter V6, creating 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft. of torque.
2019 QX60 Limited. Photo: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.
2019 QX80 Limited
Drivers who demand large and luxurious will likely opt for the QX80 Limited. This big mother rides on dark machine-finished, 22-inch forged aluminum-alloy wheels. Note the stainless steel running boards with rubber grips so drivers can actually get inside the vehicle.
And once inside, Infiniti says the “resemblance to a modern luxury space is purely intentional.” Thank goodness because we at this publication look poorly on automakers who unwittingly make their vehicles nice inside. That said, the 2019 QX80 Limited will feature two-tone semi-aniline leather and Alcantara-appointed seats, which come with their own special quilting, contrast piping, and stitching. The steering wheel and shift knob are leather-wrapped and matte silver open-pore Ash wood runs throughout. There’s even “branded welcome lightning” becasue Limited.
Those with a growing family may appreciate the available seating for seven. In this configuration, the second row has captain’s chairs whereas the third row becomes a bench. Also for the family, an available Theater Package has headrest screens for rear passengers who want to play a game or binge watch a show.
The 5.6-liter V8 creates 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft. of torque, and powers either the rear or both axles, the latter being known as “All-Mode 4WD.” The four-wheel drive system operates via a dial on the center console. Infiniti says this provides four-wheel traction when conditions require and off-road capability when the driver needs it.
2019 QX80 Limited. Photo: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.
In Person & Availability
These “Limited” machines will be on display at the 2018 New York International Auto Show, which opens to the public on March 30th. They are expected to arrive at Infiniti dealerships beginning this spring and summer, with pricing info available at that time.
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.
2019 QX60 Limited Gallery

2019 QX80 Limited Gallery

Photos & Source: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.

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Letter From The UK: The British Pothole Crisis

Letter From The UK: The British Pothole Crisis
As drivers we are admonished by our leaders to do better and be mindful of all the road safety rules and regulations. Commit a minor misdemeanour, however innocently or accidentally, and a camera has your number or a policeman pulls you over and your billfold is suddenly, painfully, lighter. That’s how it works here on the British Isles and I daresay it is the same in the USA.
Big Promises
Successive UK governments (motto: If you can’t fight, wear a big hat) have made road safety a top priority. This is as it should be but, like a boasting bully, they scarcely ever follow through when it comes to supporting the automotive infrastructure. In short, we are supposed to drive better but we have to do it on increasingly inferior roads.
In the UK, road maintenance is carried out by two different agencies. Local or regional town and country councils must maintain the minor roads and The Highways Agency must maintain the arterial routes, motorways, and expressways.
Friends, it just ain’t happening.
A Bit Of History
When cars were invented, it didn’t take long for governments to realise there was money in it for them. As vehicles improved the requirement of better roads became greater and it is the driver who paid. Our motoring taxes work like this: A substantial amount of the cost of a gallon of fuel is made up of not one, but two, taxes. When we buy a new car, part of the cost is tax. When we insure it there is tax to pay, and every year thereafter we have to pay another tax known as Vehicle Excise Duty (VED).
The name changes from time to time but, historically, VED has always been known as “Road Tax.” The motorist who pays expects that money to be used to maintain the roads. These days, the government don’t see it that way and trouser the cash to spend on diversity training or lavish lunches in both our Houses of Parliament.
The result is that drivers pay more and get less. Sound familiar?
Pothole Crisis
The number one gripe among British drivers is the pothole. We have more holes in our roads than the moon has craters. Driving on the surface of the moon is a luxury we can only dream of. Thanks to literally decades of under-investment, some of our roads aren’t much better than Peruvian goat tracks. In fact, goats steer clear. The backlog of repairs runs into the many BILLIONS of our British Pounds and we have passed the point of no return.
Sure, the “authorities” will tell you that every year a couple of million potholes are repaired. This is largely true but it is money wasted because the repairs are often so inferior that as soon as there’s a frost or heavy rain, the repair material pops out again to form more dangerous gravel on the side of the road. Potholes are like those hardy weeds that grow in your yard; those things just keep on coming back.
The solution is clear to all except those who have their heads buried ostrich-like in the sand. Every year more and more cars appear on our roads. Wear and tear of surfaces is inevitable. This is why a full and comprehensive road programme is required. Instead of patching, remake. Instead of repairing, renew.
We, the motorists of Britain, are not holding our breath.
Winter conditions can have an adverse impact on a nation’s roadways. For example, in the State of Michigan, a significant portion of the MDOT’s annual maintenance budget is dedicated to pothole repair – over 8 million alone in fiscal year 2017. According to MDOT, potholes are caused when moisture seeps into the pavement, then freezes, expands and thaws, creating a gap in the pavement. Photo: Mircea Ploscar.
Road Casualties
This writer has no figures as to how many accidents are caused by potholes; that it happens though is certainly true. Potholes that are severe can at best blowout tires and at worst damage suspension. That’s an accident waiting to happen right there. The aftermath of road crashes costs the UK economy in excess of £15.6 billion every year. Where do you think that money could be better spent?
It doesn’t stop there. Our current driving test is, to be fair, pretty comprehensive, but more could be done. That we could help reduce new driver risk in the first six months of solo driving is a priority, and one of the aspects that pertains is pothole awareness. A new driver will not know what to expect when a wheel drops into a chasm until it’s too late.
And Finally
When a car is damaged by a pothole we may choose to claim it on our auto insurance. Insurers don’t like customers claiming; they take it personally. Thus some motorists accept the financial hit and pay up themselves, then try and claim back the money from the organisation responsible for the road maintenance.
It is possible; you can make a claim and win, but it’s a Stygian hell of malevolence that awaits. There is nothing more labyrinthine and sloth-like than a local government department. Yet, how else can a taxpayer penalise the people he pays to do a job if not through litigation? Otherwise it’s all just highway robbery.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite
Cover Photo: Jacob Ode.

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2019 VW Arteon To Offer Sporty R-Line Package

2019 VW Arteon To Offer Sporty R-Line Package Volkswagen will offer the sporty R-Line package for the 2019 VW Arteon. The R-Line trim provides drivers with additional performance-inspired design elements throughout the car. The Arteon R-Line package will be formally introduced during the upcoming 2018 New York International Auto Show, which opens to the pubic on Friday, March 30th. The new Arteon made its official debut in Chicago in early February.
Exterior Additions
With the R-Line package, the 2019 VW Arteon receives a set of special 19- or 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, along with unique air inlets and cover panels. R-Line badging, a front bumper that incorporates the air intakes, and a gloss black spoiler complete the exterior treatments.
Interior Elements
Arteon R-Line models will include contrast stitching on the steering wheel and shift knob, along with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, metallic décor pieces, and a black headliner. Other interior treatments include stainless-steel sport pedals and stainless-steel door sills with the R-Line logo.
Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Power & Performance
The 2019 VW Arteon features a 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI engine with direct-injection. The engine creates 268 horsepower, 258 lb-ft. of torque, and is paired to an eight-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard but VW’s 4Motion all-wheel drive system is available on every trim level.
Availability & In Person
The 2019 Arteon goes on sale this fall with the R-Line package available at that time. In addition to debuting the R-Line trim, VW will also unveil a concept version of a new five-passenger SUV at the New York International Auto Show. The new SUV will be a variant of the seven-passenger Atlas designed and engineered for the American market.

Photos & Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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