Automotive

2020 Toyota GR Supra Review: Fast, Furious & Fun

2020 Toyota GR Supra Review: Fast, Furious & Fun 2020 Toyota GR Supra In Our Opinion: It's not practical, but it does get pretty good gas mileage! After an absence that spanned two decades, we think the Supra stands tall in its first year back on the market. If you are looking for a fun car and have a little extra dough, you will be happy with the 2020 Supra. We think it offers a lot of performance for the dollar. Exterior Styling 90Interior Layout 70Driving Dynamics96Safety & Tech Features 74ProsHandling Good Value Engine Power ConsTiny CabinClimate Control83We were waiting for months to get the 2020 Toyota GR Supra because this journalist lives at 8,300 feet elevation in the mountains of Colorado. It’s taken forever for the weather to cooperate and the snow to finally melt. Snow does not mix well with a rear-drive sports car!

But June arrived and so did warmer weather. We couldn’t wait to get behind the wheel of the new Supra!

Toyota GR Supra: What’s New for 2020

The Supra returns after a long 21 year hiatus with two trim levels (3.0 and 3.0 Premium) and a Launch Edition. The revived Supra is a rear-drive, two-seat sports coupe with a little bit of BMW mixed in which is a very good thing. It has Toyota’s quality with BMW’s German engine and gearbox. That’s a pretty solid combination for performance fans.

You likely already know that GR stands for GAZOO Racing, Toyota’s motorsports division. That means it’s designed with Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda’s influence as a race car driver behind it. We found this out firsthand as we recently drove the 2020 Toyota GR Supra 3.0 Premium.

Supra 3.0 Premium: Standard Features

The Supra 3.0 Premium ($53,990 base price for our tester) comes standard with 19-inch aluminum wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport rubber, LED headlights, remote start, and adaptive suspension dampers. Inside we had leather and simulated suede upholstery with power seats and driver-seat memory functions.

The 2020 Supra also comes with safety tech like forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams.

2020 Toyota GR Supra in Downshift Blue.Extra Amenities & Options

Premium trims come standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, navigation, Apple CarPlay, a 12-speaker premium JBL audio system, and Supra Connect telematics services. Other 3.0 Premium features include upgraded rear brakes, heads-up display, wireless charging pad, and heated seats.

This Supra tester came with the optional Driver Assist package that adds adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors ($1,195).

How Much Is The 2020 Toyota GR Supra?

Total MSRP, including destination, for our press vehicle: $56,220. By contrast, the 2020 Toyota GR Supra starts at $49,990. The Launch Edition, which is based on the 3.0 Premium, begins at $55,250.

2020 Toyota GR Supra Launch Edition. Interior Highlights: Initial Impressions

The new GR Supra cockpit reminded us of a BMW interior and the ignition chime is even sourced from the Bavarian automaker. The interior quality feels like BMW and the fit and finish is upper class. The the gear shift, climate controls, and infotainment screen all look like they came from the BMW Z4 convertible.

The attractive cabin in our tester was decked out with black leather seats, black door panels, and black console. Silver stitching on the seats and silver trim around the dash completed the interior look.

Related: The fine line: comparing the BMW Z4 and the Toyota Supra. Interior Highlights: Some Drawbacks

The cockpit is snug and once you are in, it feels like you are ready to launch. Our test Supra had the 12-speaker premium JBL audio system which fills up the small cabin with a nice sound. There’s one USB port and Apple CarPlay, but Android Auto isn’t offered.

There’s not much storage for your essentials so you might need to carry a small backpack to keep everyday things in. There are two cupholders but they take up the area where a storage bin would typically be. There is a trunk (10.2 cubic feet) accessed from the rear hatch, which can also be accessed via the cabin pass-through for hauling longer items.

Our only real complaint with the interior is how the climate control system needs some tweaks. There is no way to sync the two zones and there was never enough cold air blowing from the top vents for us.

2020 Toyota Supra interior layout.Engine & Powertrain

The 2020 Toyota GR Supra is powered by a BMW-sourced 3.0-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder. The engine produces 335 horsepower and 365 lb-ft. of torque. It’s mated to an eight-speed automatic, the only available transmission, which sends power to the rear wheels. We are surprised Toyota doesn’t offer a six-speed manual gearbox.

Toyota says the Supra hits 60 in 4.1 seconds with an electronically-limited top speed of 155. We can confirm the first but not the latter (we didn’t need a speeding ticket!).

The 2020 Supra offers two driving modes, Normal and Sport. Sport mode changes up the shift points, sharpens throttle response, increases steering weight, and amplifies the exhaust sound. For track days, the new Supra has a Launch Control function standard.

Related: Everything you need to know about a Toyota warranty. Gas Mileage of The 2020 Toyota GR Supra

EPA fuel mileage estimates are 24/31 city/highway and 26 combined mpg. When compared to other similar performance cars, the Toyota Supra is actually ahead of the pack.

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. 2020 Toyota GR Supra: Ready For The Corners!

When we first looked at the Supra’s specs, we were disappointed in the 335 horsepower. But after giving the new sports car a thorough test this week, it has enough power to excite most driving enthusiasts. A true rear-drive sports car is not just about straight-line speed, but also power-to-weight ratio and overall balance. In the case of the Supra, that balance is an even 50:50.

A true sports car is also about drivability in the corners, which is just as important as straight-line power. What makes the 2020 Supra stand out in the corners is the active differential, which controls torque distribution between the rear wheels. In addition to the active differential, the eight-speed automatic was smooth and we enjoyed the steering wheel paddle shifters in Sport mode.

Related: Is the 2020 Toyota Supra the best Toyota sports car? Rolling Through The Mountains

We drove the 2020 Supra in the mountains of Colorado and experienced the sports car through tight, twisty turns. The 50:50 weight balance is evident as it’s easily controllable through corners with no body lean. The Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires help too as they provide plenty of grip on the pavement. When you need, the Brembo four-piston front and rear brakes offer plenty of stopping power.

We did get sideways on a dirt road, but the 2020 Toyota GR Supra is designed for dry roads.

The ride quality is firm but not harsh, but as with most sports cars, the bumps are more pronounced, and there will be road and wind noise. For the most part, the seats offer good support, but after a long drive, we were ready to stretch our legs and back!

The ride quality is firm but not harsh with the 2020 Toyota GR Supra.Conclusion: You Really Can’t Go Wrong

The 2020 Toyota GR Supra is simply a fun car to drive! Enthusiasts will find it’s a good option for an affordable MSRP, considering the level of performance you get. At the end of the day, it offers surprising acceleration, good grip through the corners, and overall superior driving dynamics.

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

2020 Toyota Supra Gallery

Photos & Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Original article: 2020 Toyota GR Supra Review: Fast, Furious & Fun

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Mercedes-AMG Reveals 53-Series Models In Detroit

Mercedes-AMG Reveals 53-Series Models In Detroit
In a rather unconventional move for Mercedes-AMG, the German standard-bearer will be adding three new models and introducing a new designation: the 53-series. The three individual cars will be the CLS, E-Class Coupe, and the E-Class Cabriolet. All three models will incorporate shared technology along with common styling cues. Distinguishing features include the twin-blade radiator grille, the front bumper, A-wing design, the AMG-specific side sill panels, rear bumper with diffuser, and tailpipe trim elements in high-gloss chrome.
Power & Performance
Under the hood resides a new, electrified 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, and an electric auxiliary compressor that adds up to 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft. of torque. And all that high-tech power is put to the ground via an AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission and an AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system.
The new 53 Series has so much tech throughout the car that it’s almost hard to keep track of. The six-cylinder plant is already optimized for what Mercedes-Benz calls “intelligent electrification.” The EQ Boost starter-alternator combines a starter motor and an alternator into a single, powerful electric motor, fitted between the engine and transmission. This, along with the charging of the electric auxiliary compressor and an exhaust gas turbocharger, enhance the performance, efficiency, and driving dynamics. Bottom line: Zero to 60 in 4.4 seconds. The electric auxiliary compressor builds up a high-charge pressure in the intake tract without delay, so by-by turbo lag.
Mercedes-Benz also leverages the on-board 48-Volt electrical system for better hybrid functionality. Thanks to the 48-Volt battery, the overall capacity in the vehicle has increased, enabling more electrical energy. The power delivery requires only a quarter of a conventional system and the overall result leads to thinner and lighter wiring, thereby saving more fuel. An existing 12-Volt system supplies power to “regular stuff” like lights, the cockpit, infotainment displays, and control units.
Mercedes-Benz says the EQ Boost starter-alternator is the key component for all this new-fangled 48-Volt electrical system goodness. The EQ Boost starter-alternator serves as both an alternator and it’s also responsible for hybrid functions. It allows for more fuel savings and helps to maintain idle speed. Add all of this up, and the new drivetrain gets you a boost of 21 more horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of additional torque.
2019 Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 4MATIC+. Photo: MBUSA.
Transmission & Drive Modes
All this new-found, high-tech power is put to the Straße through an AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission. It features extremely short shift times, quick responses on the shift paddles, a double-declutching function, and multiple downshifts. Downstream of the transmission is an AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system (standard) with fully variable torque distribution between front and rear axles for optimal traction, stability, and safety under all conditions: dry, wet or snow.
If you want to fiddle with stuff, the new 53-series models have you covered with five drive modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual. The M mode is a “manual mode,” so gearshifts are executed using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. The suspension setups can also be selected manually, if desired. As that would imply, there’s a bunch of setups for the suspension as well.
2019 Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Cabriolet. Photo: MBUSA.
Suspension & Braking Tech
The suspension is called AMG RIDE CONTROL+. The multi-chamber air suspension aims to be sporty, thanks to a spring/damper setup and the continuously adjustable Adaptive Damping System. The front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints, and all components have been optimized in terms of rigidity. This transfers back to your hands through electromechanical, speed-sensitive, and variable ratio steering. Steering power is available in two modes: Comfort or Sport.
And the new 53-series cars have brakes that can stop a freight train. Perforated and internally ventilated discs (14.6″ x 1.4″) with four-piston fixed calipers and AMG lettering are fitted at the front, and internally ventilated discs measuring 14.2″ x 1.0″ with single-piston floating calipers are positioned at the back.
Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Coupé. Photo: MBUSA.
Interior Treatments
The interior is just as impressive with its dual high-resolution displays and 12.3-inch screens. The instrument cluster contains a large display with virtual instruments as well as a central display above the center console. The driver can choose from three different display styles: Classic, Sporty, and Progressive. “Touch Control” buttons on the steering wheel respond to swiping movements, enabling the driver to control the entire infotainment system without having to take their hands off the steering wheel. If that’s not enough, the infotainment system can also be operated via the touchpad in the center console and by voice control.
Special Editions & In Person
If all of that stuff is still not enough, you can get the Edition 1 version of the AMG CLS 53. The Edition 1 will offer unique interior treatments, leather upholstery in black nappa, and copper-colored contrasting stitch work. The Mercedes-AMG 53-series models are on display at the North American International Auto Show at the Cobo Center, downtown Detroit. The show officially opens to the public on Saturday, January 20th.
Expect to see these new Mercedes-AMG vehicles on sale late in the year. No word on pricing (it will be a lot though), but here’s all the tech specs in handy chart form:
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.

Mercedes-AMG CLS53
Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe
Engine
3.0L 6-cylinder in-line engine
with exhaust gas turbocharger and electric auxiliary compressor.
3.0L 6-cylinder in-line engine
with exhaust gas turbocharger and electric auxiliary compressor.
Displacement
2,999 cc
2,999 cc
Output
429 hp at 6,100 rpm
429 hp at 6,100 rpm
Add. output with EQ Boost
21 hp
21 hp
Peak torque
384 lb-ft at 1,800-5,800 rpm
384 lb-ft at 1,800-5,800 rpm
Add. torque with EQ Boost
184 lb-ft
184 lb-ft
Drive system
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all- wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution.
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all- wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution.
Transmission
AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G
AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G
Weight (DIN/EC)
TBA
TBA
Acceleration 0-60 mph (est.)
4.4 seconds
4.3 seconds
Top speed
130 mph*
130 mph*

Mercedes-AMG E 53 Cabriolet
Engine
3.0L 6-cylinder in-line engine with exhaust gas turbocharger and electric auxiliary compressor.
Displacement
2,999 cc
Output
429 hp at 6,100 rpm
Add. output with EQ Boost
21 hp
Peak torque
384 lb-ft at 1,800-5,800 rpm
Add. torque with EQ Boost
184 lb-ft
Drive system
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all- wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution.
Transmission
AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G
Weight (DIN/EC)
TBA
Acceleration 0-60 mph (est.)
4.4 seconds
Top speed
130 mph (electronically limited)
Photos & Source: MBUSA.

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2019 VW Jetta Revealed At Lower Price Point

2019 VW Jetta Revealed At Lower Price Point
The all-new 2019 Volkswagen Jetta just hit the floor at the North American International Auto Show and, like all VW’s, there’s a lot here for your hard-earned dollars. How many dollars, you ask? Well pricing starts at $18,545, which is less than the outgoing model and that includes a 6-year/72,000-mile warranty. And that’s just the start of what’s new for 2019.
Like Hotcakes
As Volkswagen unveiled the 2019 Jetta in Detroit, it’s worth noting the car is one of the world’s most successful sedans. VW has sold more than 17 million of these little guys worldwide since 1979, 3.2 million of those in the United States alone. The new for 2019 Jetta gets a bolder design, more interior space, and new technology. The wheelbase is longer at 105.7 inches and the sedan is, overall, wider and taller than the outgoing model. There is more interior space over the previous design as well, a benefit of the size increase.
Styling & Design
The exterior design marks an evolution in the Jetta’s design DNA, with modern lines and a refined appearance. The front grille is large and sharper body lines exude a bolder character. There’s more chrome along with standard LED lighting for a premium feel. A sloping roof line creates a sportier, coupe-like profile without compromising the usability of the rear seat.
On the inside, the fully redesigned interior combines the requisite high-tech features with everyday usability and a more refined fit and finish, according to VW. There are high quality soft-touch materials throughout and the new trapezoidal design elements aim to give the vehicle an upscale, yet modern feel. The 2019 Jetta wears new fabric colors and features new designs for the seats and door trim; there is even 10-color, customizable wrap-around ambient lighting as an option. Fancy!
Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Driver-Focused
The cockpit is, of course, driver-oriented and features an infotainment screen located high in the dashboard, so all vehicle information is easily accessible to the driver. Every Jetta presents standard Driver Personalization with up to four driver settings. Dependent on the trim level you choose, customizable features include driver seat memory, driver assistance system preferences, Volkswagen Digital Cockpit arrangement, ambient lighting color, radio presets, navigation view, and more.
There are available heated and ventilated front seats, power driver’s seat with memory functionality, leather seating surfaces, and dual-zone Climatronic automatic climate control. A new center storage console is large enough to fit a standard iPad. That’s a nice touch.
Tech Galore
Jetta SEL and SEL Premium models feature the standard, aforementioned Volkswagen Digital Cockpit display, offering a reconfigurable area of key data and the ability to place navigation data, front and center, for easy viewing. Volkswagen’s Car-Net system provides a complement of connected vehicle services, including compatible smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay, AndroidAuto, and MirrorLink. The new Jetta is the first VW in the U.S. to offer an available Pete-Townshend-deafening 400-watt BeatsAudio system.
And since this is 2019 we’re talking about, there’s tech and safety stuff all over the new Jetta. A rearview camera comes standard. Other available features include Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, High Beam Control, and Lane Departure Warning.
2019 VW Jetta R-Line on display at the North American International Auto Show, Cobo Center, Detroit, Michigan. Photo: Carl Anthony for Automoblog.net.
Power & Performance
Motive power is provided by Volkswagen’s 1.4-liter turbocharged and direct-injected TSI engine. Said plant puts out 147 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque. The power is put to the front wheels via a new standard six-speed manual transmission, with an eight-speed automatic transmission as an option on the base model but standard on higher trims. Automatic transmission models come standard with a Start/Stop system for better fuel efficiency.
Availability & In Person
The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta comes in four trim levels: S, SE, SEL, and SEL Premium. It should arrive at U.S. Volkswagen dealers by the second quarter of this year. And gearheads rejoice, because an R-Line trim will join the lineup with sportier styling, exclusive interior and exterior design elements, R-Line badging, and the XDS electronic differential. The 2019 Jetta is on display at the North American International Auto Show at the Cobo Center, downtown Detroit. The show officially opens to the public on Saturday, January 20th.
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.
2019 VW Jetta Gallery

Photos & Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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2019 Ford Ranger Showcased In Detroit

2019 Ford Ranger Showcased In Detroit Hey, the Ford Ranger is back, and it wants to bring midsize truck buyers a new choice that’s tough, modern, and dripping with driver-assist technologies. Right off the bat, this seems like a smart move by Ford with demand increasing for midsize trucks. Since 2014, sales are up 83 percent and the new Ranger is set to carve out a chunk of that growth for itself.
Packages & Technology
The 2019 Ford Ranger ticks all the boxes with a new exterior design, chassis, and powertrain. High-strength steel frame, check. 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, check. Ford’s trick 10-speed automatic transmission, check. And there is a wide range of trim levels to choose from: the entry-level XL, mid-level XLT, and high-level Lariat, with available Chrome and Sport appearance and FX Off-Road packages. The 2019 Ford Ranger will come in a SuperCab or SuperCrew configuration.
I know, that’s all pretty standard truck stuff, but the 2019 Ranger comes with all the tech modern buyers expect too. Ranger integrates advanced driver-assist technologies like Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, a Reverse Sensing System, and a Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage for XLT and Lariat trims.
The Ranger’s FX4 Off-Road Package also includes a Terrain Management System akin to the F-150 Raptor’s. The TMS has four distinct drive modes: normal, grass, gravel, and snow; mud and ruts; and sand. The TMS gizmo can shift on the fly to automatically change throttle responsiveness, transmission gearing, and vehicle controls to tailor traction, drivability, and performance. You should be able to handle any given terrain or weather condition, which sounds like a very nice and practical thing for a truck to do.
Debuting with the new Ranger’s FX4 Off-Road Package is Trail Control technology. It’s like cruise control for low-speed, rough terrain. Trail Control takes over acceleration and braking, delivering power and braking to each corner so you can focus on steering along the course.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Power & Performance
FoMoCo insists the Ranger is no parking mall poseur and is designed from the get-go to handle the rough stuff. The ground clearance is already plenty high, but if you opt for the FX4 Off-Road Package, the mud/dirt/gravel gets even easier to handle with off-road-tuned shocks, all-terrain tires, a heavy-gauge steel front bash plate mounted to the frame, and other frame-mounted skid plates. And, as one might expect, the 2019 Ranger will be motivated by the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. Ford’s little four-banger has direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, a 16-valve head, forged-steel crankshaft and con rods, and chain-driven dual overhead cams.
Speaking of putting the power down, that all happens thanks to Dana AdvanTEK independent front and solid rear axles on both 2WD and 4WD models. There’s an available electronic-locking rear axle standard on FX2 and FX4. 4×4 models feature 2-high, 4-high, and 4-low configs on the gearbox.

Functional Design
The design of the Ranger is there to reinforce the truck’s practicality, and to withstand the stresses and strains of everyday life. The high beltline emphasizes strength, while the raked grille and windshield seek an athletic appearance, according to Ford. The overhangs are short and functional for the clearing of off-road obstacles, while the tailgate itself is beefed up to handle people and cargo. The steel bumper at the back has an available trailer hitch receiver so you can tow all your toys.
Ford says the interior of the new Ranger merges comfort and functionality with room for up to five people and all their stuff. The center stack of the dashboard includes an 8-inch touchscreen for the available SYNC 3 system. The instrument cluster has dual LCD “productivity” screens for real-time vehicle, navigation, and audio information.
All this adds up to the inevitable reality that Ford will sell these by the train-load, even though pricing has not been announced.
In Person
The 2019 Ford Ranger is on display at the North American International Auto Show at the Cobo Center, downtown Detroit. The show officially opens to the public on Saturday, January 20th.
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.
2019 Ford Ranger Gallery

Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.
Engine & Transmission Photos: Carl Anthony.

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Nissan Xmotion Concept Inspired By Japanese Traditions

Nissan Xmotion Concept Inspired By Japanese Traditions The Nissan Xmotion (pronounced “cross motion”) Concept made its debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. Nissan says the six-passenger, three-row SUV fuses Japanese culture and traditional craftsmanship with American-style utility. The Xmotion Concept also includes the latest generation of Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility technology.
“With its combination of style and technology, this concept fulfills Nissan’s mission of moving people to a better world,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Senior Vice President, Global Design, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Design Ideologies
The Xmotion hints at Nissan’s future design language, one the automaker describes as “dynamic” with “understated sculptural beauty.” While the Xmotion may indeed show the future, current Nissan signatures are still present, like the patented V-motion grille. The visual simplicity of the Xmotion concept exterior, according to Nissan, is contrasted by the rugged, metal-crafted wheels and all-terrain tire design.
“At a glance, Xmotion may appear to have a minimal design language, but a closer look reveals layers of detail that make this concept exceptional,” Albaisa explained. “The exterior’s combination of western and eastern concepts continues inside the Xmotion, where advanced connectivity and autonomous technologies mix with modern Japanese digital art and cultural craftsmanship.”
Functional Focus
The Xmotion is meant to be more than a pretty face, complete with its all-terrain tires, long wheelbase, and three rows of side-by-side individual seats. Other functional features include a retractable “rooftop box” and special taillights inspired by Japanese woodwork.
“In the Xmotion concept, we explored the more rugged and powerful side of Nissan Intelligent Mobility,” Albaisa said. “We envision the Xmotion concept to be a highly functional SUV that can be driven every day, yet can take the owners and friends to a national park or recreation area on a whim.”
Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Interior Treatments
Like the exterior, the interior is laced with elements of Japanese culture and tradition. The interior is meant to resemble a river with the center console acting as the bridge. The console, the core of the interior design according to Nissan, uses a Japanese architectural wood joinery technique known as kanawa tsugi; the instrument panel design is a modern interpretation of kigumi wood joinery. Nissan says these cultural elements provide a more robust interior with a sense of strength and trust for the driver.
In Person
The Nissan Xmotion Concept is on display at the North American International Auto Show at the Cobo Center, downtown Detroit. The show officially opens to the public on Saturday, January 20th.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.

Photos & Source: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

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2018 Lexus LS: More Performance, Less Cost

2018 Lexus LS: More Performance, Less Cost
The 2018 Lexus LS sedan is offering more for the money this week in Detroit, Michigan as the North American International Auto Show is underway. The new LS 500 will have an MSRP $3,820 less than its current, long wheelbase predecessor but offer more power, comfort, and safety, according to the automaker. Lexus is also promising new levels of efficiency, saying the LS 500 can cruise over 600 miles on a single tank.
“The LS not only offers unsurpassed performance, style and luxury, its competitive pricing makes it a great value as well,” said Jeff Bracken, Lexus Group Vice President and Division General Manager.
Power & Performance
Lexus says they set out to “reimagine” what a flagship luxury sedan should be, as if they were “launching the brand all over again.” The new LS is longer, lower, and wider than the sedan it replaces, and is a stronger representation of Lexus’ latest design language. Supporting the design is an new, premium rear-wheel drive platform (GA–L) first realized for the 2018 LC 500.
The 2018 Lexus LS arrives with a new 3.5-liter, twin turbocharged V6, delivering 416 horsepower and 442 lb-ft. of torque. By comparison, the outgoing LS with its 4.6-liter naturally aspirated V8 creates 386 horsepower and 367 lb-ft. of torque. The new Multistage Hybrid System, which debuted in the LC 500h Coupe, is worth noting as well. The setup combines a naturally aspirated, Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with two electric motor/generators to deliver 354 horsepower. The electric motors are powered by a compact, lightweight lithium-ion battery.
An optional F SPORT performance package includes Dynamic Rear Steering, Variable Gear-Ratio Steering, and active stabilizers.
Interior Treatments
Designers focused on craftsmanship, comfort, and “cutting-edge design,” modeling the interior after different hallmarks of Japanese culture. For example, the interior ambient lighting mimics Japanese lanterns while the Shimamoku-inspired wood patterns feature unique contrasts between light and dark, giving the wood a more vibrant appearance.
An optional Executive Package provides heating and massage functions for the rear seats and an additional 3.4-inches of legroom. Standard is Lexus Safety System+, a full array of driver assistance and advanced safety features.
In Person
The 2018 Lexus LS sedan will be on display at the North American International Auto Show at the Cobo Center, downtown Detroit. The show officially opens to the public on Saturday, January 20th.
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.
Photo & Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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Remembering Daniel Sexton Gurney

Remembering Daniel Sexton Gurney What I could say about Dan Gurney? On the night of his passing, I could have filled a very long and entertaining book. Born on Long Island, his father was, of all things, an opera singer for The Met. His family moved to SoCal, and Dan grew up steeped in the post-war Southern California hot rod and road racing scene, competing against fellow up-and-coming racers like Carroll Shelby, Richie Ginther, and Phil Hill all over the small country that is The Golden State.
American Hero
I could go into details about his engineering prowess, driving skill, frightening levels of tenacity, and alarming heights of bravery. I could tell the story of his all-American good looks and imposing height and how, upon meeting him for the first time, Enzo Ferrari said, “my big American Marine,” hiring him on the spot. I could tell you the one about how Dan was the guy that invented spraying champagne from the winner’s podium. I could divulge all the stories I heard and read about Dan doing the stuff we all did, but should not do on public roads with fast cars, hours before daylight and (I thought there were) no cops around.
But most of that would be standard stuff; wins, losses, classes competed in, number of race-winning cars designed, that sort of thing. The thin gruel of a man’s life rendered into numbers and statistics that get all The Facts right and only 49 percent of The Truth. What I will say is this: Back in the early 90s, I was in need of a better helmet for two reasons: one, I was doing more and more AutoX-ing and two, I was doing a similar amount of downhill skateboard racing, finding ever-faster mountains to rush down.
Flat Black
As luck would have it, friends of mine were working on a movie set in a dystopian future high school where Malcolm McDowell was the principle and semi-robot guards harassed the students. The production had wrapped and the producers were selling off bits and pieces at a very strange yard sale, my friends told me. And lo and behold, that included the motorcycle helmets the semi-robot guards wore. I was able to pick up a nearly brand new, garishly painted Shoei HR for ten bucks.
“What’a’ya gonna do about that orange,” said my friend, pointing at the day-glow stripe on the helmet?
“Oh that’s easy. I’ll paint the whole thing flat black, just like Dan Gurney’s helmet,” I said, pointing out the obvious.
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.

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Volkswagen, NVIDIA Showcase Deep Learning Vehicle Platform At CES

Volkswagen, NVIDIA Showcase Deep Learning Vehicle Platform At CES
It looks like Volkswagen is serious about all the stuff they’ve been saying. Yes, there will be a new minibus. Yes, they are going EV in a big way. Yes, they are very serious about technology integration. After the disaster – financial, reputation-wise and such – that was dieselgate, VW knows they have to turn things around, and from this year’s CES show in Las Vegas, they fired the first shot.
The brief sketch here is that Volkswagen and NVIDIA (the company that makes really hot graphics cards for your gaming rig) have teamed up to work lots of AI into VW’s future vehicle lineup. Specifically, VW and NVIDIA are using AI tech for “co-pilot capabilities.”
Creating A Buzz
The companies shared their vision for how AI will form a new generation of “intelligent” Volkswagen vehicles at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show. Further, for those diehard gearheads that don’t really care about hgh-tech stuff (you know who you are, the ones with grease permanently under your fingernails), VW decided to push this future vision by showing how it will integrate into the new I.D. BUZZ, the re-do of the iconic MicroBus. The I.D. BUZZ, which is aimed straight at hipsters, eco-focused moms, Trustafarians and the like, will be a full-on electric vehicle, permeated with AI technology. It will also be self-driving.
VW calls their AI system for the I.D. BUZZ (I so hope they lose that name before it rolls out) the Intelligent Co-Pilot. The Intelligent Co-Pilot will include convenience and driver assistance systems, and process sensor data from both inside and outside the vehicle. Intelligent Co-Pilot can also be enhanced throughout the life of the vehicle via software updates, just like your smartphone. VW and NVIDIA say deep learning will enable the I.D. BUZZ to accurately assess situations and analyze the behavior of others on the road, so it can “make the right decisions.” This sounds like a nice, preemptive way of saying “it won’t crash all that much.”
Volkswagen I.D. Buzz Concept. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Fully Electric, Zero Emissions
It turns out that NVIDIA has already worked on systems like this, meaning this is not just some random corporate cross-promotion or activation to ruin our lives further. NVIDIA is building on their NVIDIA DRIVE IX Intelligent Experience platform. That’s an AI-enabled system with goodies like facial recognition for unlocking the vehicle, driver alerts for bicycles, gesture recognition, natural language understanding for voice control, and “gaze tracking” for driver distraction alerts.
And of course, everybody is talking about autonomous driving and VW and NVIDIA are in on the party. Not only will the I.D. BUZZ launch VW’s electric car operations, it is also the platform they will use to gradually introduce autonomous driving, starting in 2020. VW, seeing the writing on the wall (i.e. diesel is all-but-dead, efficiency must go up, and emissions must drop to zero before 25 percent of the world drowns etc.) is planning on more than 20 fully electric vehicles by 2025.
Solid Foundations
These new VW models are based on the MEB architecture and focused on zero emissions and digital mobility. The MEB architecture will also be beneficial for packaging the different components so they don’t compromise interior room. For example, by using a battery that is integrated flat in the chassis floor, and a compact drive system, the VW vehicles are expected to offer a spacious and flexible interior.
VW is so in love with the MEB system they say it will also be used for vehicles with conventional drive layouts. All of the VWs based on the MEB architecture are expected to offer the latest driver assistance systems as a way to pave the way for autonomous driving, naturally.
“Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the car,” said Dr. Herbert Diess, Chief Executive Officer, Volkswagen. “Autonomous driving, zero tailpipe emission mobility, and digital networking are virtually impossible without advances in AI and deep learning.”
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: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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Chevy To Reveal Silverado Class 4 & 5 Trucks In March

Chevy To Reveal Silverado Class 4 & 5 Trucks In March Chevrolet will reveal the new Silverado Class 4 and 5 chassis cab trucks at The Work Truck Show 2018, set for March in Indianapolis, Indiana. The event, produced by The Association for the Work Truck Industry, is the largest of its kind in North America, and a fitting venue for Chevrolet to make their announcement. This year, more than 11,000 truck fleet operators, dealers, and equipment distributors are expected at the Indiana Convention Center for the show.
Configurations
The forthcoming Silverado medium-duty trucks will be available in regular or crew cab, and in either a two-wheel or four-wheel drive layout. There are different GVWR capacities and wheelbases to accommodate the wide range of use scenarios the trucks are likely to see. Perhaps not surprising is the appearance of the Duramax engine and Allison transmission, a combination Chevrolet has used for going on 20 years. Although power figures have not been released for the medium-duty Silverado, the current L5P Duramax puts out 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft. of torque.
The medium-duty Silverado will come with OnStar and built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi. Fleet managers can take advantage of additional tools, including a number of telematic solutions. Ed Peper, U.S. Vice President, General Motors Fleet, explained how the Silverado 4500 and 5500 will be the top models in GM’s commercial truck portfolio.
“We’ve designed them to be among the best in the industry in maneuverability, serviceability, visibility, quietness and comfort, diesel fuel economy, and more,” he said.
In Person
The Work Truck Show runs March 6th through the 9th and full product specs will be given during that time. The medium-duty Silverado will enter production near the end of the year.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.

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