Automotive

2021 BMW M5: High-Performance 5-Series is Better Than Ever

2021 BMW M5: High-Performance 5-Series is Better Than Ever The 2021 BMW M5 packs a mighty punch with its turbocharged V8.xDrive is standard along with BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant.BMW will do the global market launch of the 2021 M5 in August. In my mind, the last great BMW M5 is the E39 model from 1998 to 2003. Conceived before the Bangle era of V10-powered M5s, the third-gen E39 represented the pinnacle of luxury-sport sedans, with particular emphasis on ‘sport.’ And while we all love the refreshed 2021 BMW 5-Series, it’s hard not to notice the changing of the guard.

You see, the 5-Series (along with the M5) had a growth spurt from the fifth-gen E60 (which spawned the fourth-gen E60 M5) to the F10. Along with the bigger size came a new set of priorities. As it turns out, luxury gained a foothold over sportiness, but every succeeding generation of the M5 seeks to restore the balance in favor of ‘sport.’

And hence the reason for our excitement in unveiling the refreshed 2021 BMW F90 M5. Based on the newly-minted 2021 5-Series, BMW is also bringing in the M5 Competition to ruffle the tailfeathers of Audi’s RS7 Sportback and new Mercedes-AMG E 63 S.

If Looks Could Kill

BMW updated the 5-Series to keep it fresh amongst the competition. Naturally, the new M5 is mirroring the changes with a larger kidney grille, redesigned front and rear bumpers, and slimmer lighting elements. The new M5 is also home to an updated rear diffuser along with M-specific quad tailpipes to distinguish it further from a regular 5-Series.

The M5 Competition has similar design cues, albeit with blacked-out elements including black mirror caps, a subtle black rear spoiler, black chrome exhaust tips, and a darkened grille surround. The new M5 is equipped with 19-inch alloys while the M5 competition makes do with 20-inch wheels.

Peering through those gorgeous alloys are standard M compound brakes with vented discs and blue-painted six-piston calipers. BMW’s M Carbon Ceramic brakes with gold calipers are optional (they are 50 lbs. lighter).

2021 BMW M5 Competition Sedan (European model shown). The on-board Active M Differential can split torque between the left and right rear wheels. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.What Engine Does The 2021 BMW M5 Have?

The 2021 BMW M5 has a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 pumping out 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft. of torque. What’s more impressive is how the engine shoves maximum torque from lower engine speeds, specifically from 1,800 to 5,690 rpm. Meanwhile, the M5 Competition has 617 horsepower while producing the same amount of torque on a broader band, topping out at 5,860 rpm.

Both the M5 and M5 Competition employ an eight-speed M Steptronic automatic gearbox with three gear modes: Efficient, Sport, and Track. Power is transferred to all four wheels courtesy of BMW’s M xDrive AWD system, which, too, has its own set of driving modes: 4WD, 4WD Sport, and 2WD. Yes, the new BMW M5’s AWD system allows the driver to disconnect the front axle to enjoy some tire-burning, license-revoking, tail-happy driving action.

2021 BMW M5 Competition Sedan under the hood. The engine features two-turbochargers, cross-bank exhaust manifolds, direct injection, and upgraded cooling and oil supply systems. The cross-bank exhaust manifolds improve turbocharger and throttle response by reducing the distance the exhaust gases need to flow to reach the turbochargers. Water-to-air intercooling helps reduce the temperature of the incoming air for improved power. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.Is It Fast?

You bet! The new BMW M5 rockets to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph. But if you choose the optional M Driver’s Package, you can extend the speed limit to 190 mph. If that’s not fast enough, the M5 Competition breaches 60 mph from a standstill in 3.1 seconds.

What’s The M Mode Button?

In the 2021 BMW M5 and M5 Competition, the M Mode button replaces the confusing task of manually configuring the engine, suspension, chassis, steering, and xDrive system. Derived from the BMW M8, the new M Mode button toggles between two settings (three for the M5 competition): Default, Sport, and Track mode.

Revised Interior: From Sedan to Spaceship!

Similar to the new 5-Series sedan, the 2021 BMW M5 is home to a fresh set of larger touchscreens. Coupled with BMW’s Live Cockpit Professional powered by iDrive 7, the M5 has two 12.3-inch displays for the instrument console and infotainment system along with standard navigation (which utilizes live traffic data) and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity.

However, the M5 also comes with BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant, a feature that our Managing Editor Carl Anthony gleefully describes as taking the 5 Series from sedan to spaceship. How so? The darn thing can adjust the climate control or roll down the windows using voice prompts, for crying out loud!

Without a doubt, the BMW M5 is a hardcore version of a standard 5 Series, but it remains a luxury car to the core. As such, the cabin is resplendent in genuine Merino leather upholstery, Alcantara, and a choice between aluminum-carbon or wood trim.

As expected, the 2021 BMW M5 is brimming with standard luxury features. The list includes ambient lighting, power and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, four-zone climate control, a rearview camera with park distance control, auto-dimming rearview and side mirrors, a power tailgate, and adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams.

2021 BMW M5 Competition Sedan interior layout. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.Safe & Sound

The 2021 BMW M5 comes with blind-spot detection, lane departure warning, frontal collision assist, pedestrian warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rear collision preparation system. The Driving Assistance Professional Package is optional and includes more features like active cruise control with stop & go functionality, extended traffic jam assist, and a lane-keeping assistant with side collision avoidance.

2021 BMW M5: Pricing & Availability

The 2021 BMW M5 has a base price of $104,995 (including the $995 destination charge), while the M5 Competition starts at $112,095. The global market launch is scheduled this August with the first deliveries arriving near the end of 2020.

Alvin Reyes is the Associate Editor of Automoblog. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

2021 BMW M5 Competition Gallery

Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.
Original article: 2021 BMW M5: High-Performance 5-Series is Better Than Ever

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Work, Relationships & Family: Do Trucks Make Them Better?

Work, Relationships & Family: Do Trucks Make Them Better? A survey conducted by Chevrolet and Harris Poll sheds light on why we love trucks.
The data shows a link between truck ownership and serving the local community.
Trucks owners even name their pickups and consider them part of the family.
Although the poll was conduced by Chevrolet, it is not brand specific.
Sometimes, it’s the young working class who reflect why trucks are the greatest aspirational vehicles in the United States. Many don’t have their dream truck yet, but when they tell you about it, their eyes light up and their voice and tone changes. It doesn’t matter what type of truck, or what badge it carries, either.
What matters is how they believe that day of beloved ownership is getting closer. And when it arrives, a portion of their lives will be complete.
Prodigal Son
On the 2016 Luke Bryan Farm Tour, one man in his mid-thirties explained why the day he buys a new truck will be the day he’s “made it.” This now humble farmer recalls his prior days, caught up in a whirlwind of vice and vixens; in a life devoid of a future. He returned later to his family’s cattle operation broken and exhausted; a significant humbling when the ground finally dropped out from under his empty pursuits.
“Yeah, but you couldn’t tell me nothing then anyway; swore I’d never come back, swore it,” he said. “I did what I wanted, what I pleased, and low and behold, didn’t get nothing.”
His vision today involves seeing the family business he long rejected to a successful future. A new truck, in his mind, represents that future come true.
“I know it’s only a truck, but it’s something; like I might be the kinda man people respect in something like that,” he reasoned. “These days, you can fit your tools and your kids in a pickup- there’s enough room – so maybe, I don’t know.”
Trucks handle some of the most important jobs, including our interpersonal relationships.
What Is It About Trucks?
Sure, there are those typical dream cars, all of which are fast and lavish, but trucks capture our hearts like no other vehicle can. In the auto industry, there is an expression that goes to the effect of “everyone (secretly) wants a truck.” And it’s true. They are alluring in so many ways, far beyond the towing and payload specs. Trucks are alluring because they are the mechanical extension of who we are and what we value.
“Here in Montana where I’m from, trucks are mandatory because a lot of people need them for their ranch or their job,” explained Jeremy Pulse, Founder of Throttle Down Kustoms. “If you hunt, fish, or camp, a truck is the best way to get to where you’re going and haul your gear.”
“Roofers, painters, electricians, farmers, carpet and flooring folks, landscapers – they all have them,” added Matt Mylan, Director at GMPartsCenter.net. “Can’t really do those jobs without a truck or, at least, a truck makes it easier.”
How Americans view truck ownership, according to a Chevrolet survey conducted by Harris Poll.
#Trucks are alluring because they are the mechanical extension of who we are and what we value.Click To TweetThe Good Life
Chevrolet recently worked with Harris Poll to gather more insight into why trucks hold a special place in our hearts. Although Chevy conducted the poll, it is not brand specific. Ford, Ram, Toyota, and Nissan owners can just as easily relate, as can those who own both bigger and smaller trucks. Over a thousand pickup owners across the United States weighed in, and the responses offer a wealth of explanation.
One of the biggest insights is how people name their truck, with “Betsy” and “Big Red” among the most popular. And Betsy and Big Red are instrumental in making us better friends and citizens, according to the data. Turns out, trucks are great for performing good deeds.
For example, over thirty percent say they often use their truck to help a friend or family member with a task. Another thirty percent say they regularly use their pickup to support a local school or a charitable cause. Overall, Chevy’s survey finds 89 percent use their truck to help others, be it moving a stalled car or hauling a new couch. Truck owners know this more commonly as “hey, I’m moving next weekend, can I borrow your pickup?”
According to a Chevrolet survey conducted by Harris Poll, truck owners often help friends and family with tasks that require a pickup.
Family Matters
Now 18 years ago, my Father went home to The Lord. That summer of 2000, I often drove his old Silverado down the rural highways of Northwest Iowa. Such emotions are best described by Lee Brice in his 2012 song, I Drive Your Truck. In a similar way, 45 percent say they plan on passing their pickup down to a child or loved one. Further, nearly 60 percent say they consider their pickup a part of the family, while another 60 percent say they “cannot live” without theirs.
“People keep trucks a long time. Most of the owners I know have owned one for 10 plus years,” Mylan explained. “When you keep something around that long, it’s easy to think about all the ‘stuff’ that’s happened with your truck and your family.”
“A lot of people use them for vacation and travel; maybe they tow a trailer, or use it for getting the kids around in the winter,” Pulse added. “So trucks are definitely important to the family.”
Red Dirt Rich & Flint River Paid
Fans of Cheers may recall how Diane Chambers explains why she took the job (one certainly beneath her) at the bar. In her mind, she wanted to experience that slice of Americana. The slice of Americana that sees Norm in contest with his job, Cliff with his encyclopedia brain, and Coach being . . . well Coach being Coach. Between repressed feelings for Mayday Malone and feuds with Carla, she experiences Americana alright.
If Diane attended a Midwestern State Fair, or NASCAR race; visited any number of hunting and fishing expos or Sunday morning tailgates; if she visited the NFR in Las Vegas in December, she would see the slice of Americana that is trucks. What Chevy’s survey really reflects is how these vehicles are inexplicably woven into the fabric of our lives, and how they remain universal insignias for our best memories.
“All the trips you’ve taken, that time your son-in-law borrowed the truck and ran out of gas, the time you got it stuck on a trail . . . stuff like that,” Mylan continued.
According to the survey, 26 percent learned how to drive in a truck. Another 10 percent say they have brought their newborn children home from the hospital in a pickup. This likely explains why 38 percent said say they love their pickup more than any other object they own.
According to a Chevrolet survey conducted by Harris Poll, nearly 10 percent say they had their first kiss in a pickup.
More Right Swipes?
Single folks should consider adding a truck photo to their online dating profile. According to the survey, nearly 40 percent believe driving one makes them more attractive and popular. Is this true ladies? Does it really make us guys more attractive?
“That’s kind of funny to me because it sounds like a country song or something,” Mylan said. “I’ll bet most Toyota owners don’t think it makes them more attractive because Toyota trucks are kind of ugly.”
Fair enough.
“The polling people should look into that,” Mylan added.
What do you love about your truck? Share with us on Twitter.
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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2019 Toyota Highlander SE Review: Ideal For Active Families

2019 Toyota Highlander SE Review: Ideal For Active Families 93Good2019 Toyota Highlander SEOverall ImpressionEasy to maneuver overall.All-wheel drive option is nice.Good choice for a growing family.ProsFamily FriendlyTech-Focused Interior Cons3rd Row Passenger RoomThe Toyota Highlander looks like it could tackle some rough terrain, but it’s better suited for a family’s rough use. The SE V6 all-wheel drive model we tested is good for city commutes and the occasional trip to the back country. Families looking for versatility, comfort, practicality, and three-row seating need to check out the 2019 Toyota Highlander.
We have spent the long New Year’s weekend driving the 2019 Toyota Highlander SE.
What’s New For 2019
The Toyota Highlander gets minor styling revisions for 2019.
Features & Options: Suspension Tuning & DVD Players
The 2019 Toyota Highlander SE V6 AWD ($41,900) comes standard with keyless entry and ignition, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, an upgraded instrument panel, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and leather seats with the front ones being heated. There is a four-way power passenger seat, second-row captain’s chairs, second-row window sunshades, a backup camera, and navigation.
The new SE trim also gets LED running lights, sport-themed styling elements, special suspension tuning, 19-inch wheels, and a sporty interior theme. Our tester came with the optional Rear-Seat Entertainment system ($1,810) as well.
Total MSRP including destination: $45,019. By comparison, the 2019 Toyota Highlander starts at $31,330.
Related: Right size fits all. An in-depth look at the 2019 Toyota RAV 4.

Interior Highlights: Tech-Focused & Comfortable
The interior of the SE is sportier than other models, and the leather seats are extra comfy for long trips. The cabin of this crossover is more car/minivan-like, perfect for growing families. The navigation system features a large touchscreen, with many of the functions using real buttons which we like. There are plenty of creature comforts inside like second row window shades, heated front seats, and of course the DVD system to keep the kids entertained on those longer trips.
Visibility is excellent in the 2019 Toyota Highlander, thanks to a larger rear-quarter window and strategically positioned pillars. The Highlander comes with twin reclining captain’s chairs that can be pushed back for maximum legroom and comfort. We took two friends of ours over the weekend out to dinner. As they were lounging in the back after leaving the restaurant, they nearly fell asleep!
Interior Highlights: A Little Crammed Sometimes
As is true of most competitors, the first and second rows provide copious room for adult occupants. The third row is squishier than that of the Honda Pilot despite having three seat belts — only small kids are likely to fit three across in the Highlander. The third row works well for smaller kids and access is easy with the captain’s chairs.
Cargo space totals 13.8 cubic feet behind the third row, and there’s plenty of versatility for busy families with a maximum of 83.7 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Highlander’s 3.5-liter V6 engine produces an impressive 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft. of torque. It comes mated to an eight-speed automatic with an automatic stop-start system to save fuel. EPA fuel economy estimates come in at 20/26 city/highway and 22 combined with all-wheel drive.
When compared to the competition, the 2019 Toyota Highlander holds its own in terms of fuel economy.
Driving Dynamics: Responsive & Capable
The Highlander’s engine provides impressive acceleration, and the V6 powerplant works well in tandem with the gearbox. The eight-speed automatic is smooth and reasonably responsive. It didn’t seem to hunt for the right gear as we pushed it hard uphill in the mountains west of Denver.
The Highlander feels bigger than some, so tighter parking maneuvers may prove difficult in the city. It has crisp steering for parking lots, though, and it’s an easy SUV to drive in general. One of the Highlander’s best qualities is its ride comfort and few, if any, road irregularities intrude. Despite the size, the Highlander does not feel like a floating barge on the open road.
We used the all-wheel drive system as snow fell in the mountains west of Denver, and felt safe on the slicker roads. The all-wheel drive option is ideal for families in cold climates, or for those who take weekend adventures to the north forty.
The 2019 Toyota Highlander also has a max towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. when properly equipped. This is an added bonus if you regularly pull a smaller trailer.

As a complete package, the 2019 @Toyota Highlander is hard to beat for active and growing families. Click To TweetConclusion: Ideal For Active Families
The 2019 Toyota Highlander SE offers a big, comfortable cabin with seating for seven, and up to eight depending on the configuration. The Highlander provides a sweet spot between an SUV and a wagon/minivan. As a complete package, the 2019 Toyota Highlander is hard to beat for active and growing families.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Toyota Highlander SE Gallery

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

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2020 Dodge Dakota Concept and Release Date

Dodge Dakota pickup truck is one which may be suitable for your use. With very high performance and also our very energetic believes that 2020 Dodge Dakota will not disappoint you. It was first made in 1987, this model has a lot of attention from many people. Dodge like his should work very well to make the Dodge Dakota for the year 2020.

2020 Dodge Dakota

2020 Dodge Dakota Interior and Exterior

The new Dodge Dakota may perhaps be the conventional course superb for folks who love this mixture of useful problem and strength. The close to potential 2020 Dakota about 2020 Dodge Dakota is showed virtually undoubtedly with regards to the 4th time style through the use of someone assemblage checking and truly engaging automobile to your capability and gorgeous concept.

As staying the outdoors the house presents quite a bit of enchanting attributes, it is going to offer you which includes the identical infrequent plus a lot of frequent upgrades. Contemplating that prevent Dakota is actually an excellent auto. The trademark would not need to pick uncomplicated alterations in addition to will sustain its some kind of format. Because of current data and facts as well as the Dodge Dakota will in all probability be set up in Unibody and yes it turns up as staying by far the most excellent Ridgeline versions by way of Honda Motor unit Firm.

Like all RAM and Dodge designs, this a single will also be fairly sturdy beneath the hood. A wide selection of engines while in the offer you will definitely be a benefit more than the competition.

2020 Dodge Dakota Engine

Base versions will almost certainly feature a brand new 2.0-liter turbo inline-four engine, which can be fantastic for about 275 hp and offer very decent mpg ratings. A familiar 3.6-liter and V6 engine really should be from the give also. This engine characteristics slightly extra energy, close to 280 hp, but does not provide such a good fuel economic system. Moreover, the economy is definitely a weak level of this engine.

2020 Dodge Dakota Release Date and Price

If you wish the Dodge Dakota will be present at the area years later May 2020 you could wait for him. We also believe that this car will come at the beginning of the year 2020, for the price of $60,000 may be very worthy of this car.

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2019 Volkswagen Jetta SEL Review: Good Value For The Money

2019 Volkswagen Jetta SEL Review: Good Value For The Money 92Good2019 Volkswagen Jetta SELOverall ImpressionAmbient lights are a nice touch.Good value for the money overall.High performance variant would be nice.ProsSpacious CabinSolid Handling Smooth Transmission ConsEngine Power (At Times)SEL Needs Larger Wheel OptionsThe redesigned Volkswagen Jetta gets bigger for 2019 and it looks to be an improvement over the outgoing model. The new SEL Premium trim has more comfort and quality has not been sacrificed. Buyers get a taste of luxury-car life thanks to high-end features in the SEL we drove this week.
What’s New For 2019
The Volkswagen Jetta has been fully redesigned for the 2019 model year.
It gets more in-car and safety tech and a new SEL Premium trim. The new Jetta is slightly longer, wider, and taller than the outgoing model, with a longer wheelbase and shorter overhangs. Jetta gets a new wraparound grille with LED headlights (standard on all trims) giving the small sedan a more aggressive look.
Features & Options: Mostly Tech & Safety
The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta 1.4T SEL ($24,415) comes standard with an eight-speaker BeatsAudio system, an upgraded infotainment system with an eight-inch display, satellite and HD radio, a fully digital gauge cluster (Digital Cockpit), and an extra USB port. It also features heated V-Tex leatherette seats, rain-sensing wipers, heated side mirrors, and a power-tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof.
We were surprised the SEL only gets 16-inch alloy wheels, however.
Other safety items include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, auto high-beam control, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. A 10-color adjustable ambient lighting system is standard as well. Total MSRP including destination: $25,265. By comparison, the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta starts at $18,545 with a manual transmission; $19,345 with an automatic.
Related: A brief walk through the 2019 Jetta lineup.

Interior Highlights: Comfortable & Warm
The Jetta’s all-new interior is more modern than the outgoing model with excellent build quality. The first thing we noticed was the larger, eight-inch screen and VW’s Digital Cockpit, a fully digital and customizable gauge cluster. Interior cubby space has increased, with larger door pockets and a larger center console bin for storing your valuables.
The 10-color ambient lighting is another interesting feature.
Jetta SEL gets a more premium look with new fabrics, new colors, attractive stitching, and the nicely-bolstered bucket seats are more comfortable. We made liberal use of the heated front seats that also bring extra winter comfort. Front-seat passengers benefit from more knee and shoulder room, and your rear-seat passengers will have increased legroom because of the longer wheelbase.
The trunk is a bit smaller, but the 14.1-cubic-foot capacity is still competitive for the class.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The VW Jetta continues to come with a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder producing a modest 147 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque. It comes mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission and acceleration is reasonably quick for the class.
EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 30/40 city/highway and 34 combined, slightly better than last year. The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta is on par, for the most part, in terms of fuel economy when compared to the competition.
Behind the wheel, the driving dynamics of the new @VW #Jetta will have you thinking you're in a more expensive German sedan.Click To TweetDriving Dynamics: Smooth & Quiet
The 1.4-liter engine powers up with the push-button start and pulls hard above 2,500 rpm. Handling capability is stable, and the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta rides smoothly on the highway. The Jetta is built for the Autobahn; its architecture conveys that on the mountain roads and tight curves. We felt completely confident at higher than posted speed limits on a curvy section of the Colorado interstate.
In the city, the new Jetta is highly maneuverable too. Visibility is above average in this small sedan, nice when driving through city traffic.
You will find the 147 horsepower engine has enough power for most driving situations. Although we are interested in seeing a high performance option for the new Jetta, on the open road we could power around slower traffic. We found the small sedan to be quiet inside too. We didn’t detect much road or engine noise as we cruised around this week.
The new eight-speed automatic is smooth and responsive, downshifting readily when we needed more power. Overall, the new automatic’s shifting is well-suited to the engine’s power. And the start/stop feature (limited to the automatic) is smoother than most.
Mounted in a lightweight, two-piece steel subframe, the Jetta’s strut-type front suspension has lower control arms and long-travel coil springs. At the back, a torsion beam rear setup with telescopic dampers offers an ideal balance of ride comfort, handling, and weight reduction.
Conclusion: Good Value For The Money
The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta SEL offers plenty of luxurious features and is still a good value for a small sedan. The new Jetta is roomy and quiet, offering a smooth-shifting automatic. Behind the wheel, the driving dynamics will have you thinking you’re in a more expensive German sedan.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Volkswagen Jetta Gallery

Photos: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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Building Your McLaren Speedtail: Like Savile Row With Horsepower!

Building Your McLaren Speedtail: Like Savile Row With Horsepower! The McLaren Speedtail was recently revealed to future owners at a private event.
The Speedtail is the first of 18 new cars under the company’s Track25 business plan.
It’s the fastest car in the automaker’s history. Now it’s arguably the most personalized.
I think this all started with the McLaren F1. I remember buyers could get their name woven into the carbon fiber, if they so desired. You know, something along the lines of “This McLaren F1 made especially for Sir Manfredjinsinjin” or something like that. And now things have gone to a whole new level with the McLaren Speedtail, the direct successor to the P1 and the spiritual successor to the stunning F1.
Only The Finest
You know Savile Row, right? That’s the street in London where the world’s best tailors work. You can be shaped like a flour sack with a rope tied in the middle, and Savile row tailors will make you look like James Bond. That’s what McLaren is doing, in a certain way, with their upcoming Speedtail hypercar.
No, they’re not going to alter the structure or size of the car for you (that’s definitely a one size fits all deal), but they will let you choose more than just the color.
Literally Everything Is “Bespoke”
This is all very high-touch, extremely personalized service that only the very rich demand these days. And McLaren ain’t kidding around. The mechanical package of the Speedtail is cast in stone and won’t be messed with. Which is as it should be. McLaren knows what they are doing and, performance-wise, the 250-mph hypercar seems to be a dead on bull’s eye.
The story here is that well-heeled buyers of the Speedtail can specify every aspect with regard to the look and feel of their individual car. And much like fashion houses, McLaren has three design “collections” curated by their Colour and Material design team. The three collections are Urbane, Visionary, and Dynamic.
What, like you didn’t think this was going to get pretentious quicker than the Speedtail could hit 60? By the way, the McLaren Speedtail hits 186 mph in 12.8 seconds.
Related: There was once a McLaren made entirely out of Legos.
McLaren Speedtail in the Stratosphere theme. Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Urbane & Visionary Collections
Urbane is a collection of three themes offering a discriminating and sophisticated feel, with calm exterior hues and subtle, cool interior tones. Take the Stratosphere, for example, in the Urbane collection. Stratosphere accentuates the exterior highlights of the car’s aerodynamic bodywork, set off with bespoke, brushed light blue anodized aluminum brightwork. The cabin blends the metallic light blue driver’s seat with light grey passenger seats.
Even the badging goes to the Nth degree with the Stratosphere option.
The Visionary collection offers up the Astral theme, a nod to the UK’s nautical heritage. The navy blue dominated interior with nubuck, bespoke navy passenger seats, and a full aniline leather navy driver’s seat (also bespoke) are among the highlights. The exterior of the Astral theme features, for some reason, an orange and silver pinstripe? Also on the exterior: gloss 1K visual carbon fiber and 18 carat white gold with TPT inlay badging.
Just don’t leave the doors open for very long.
@McLarenAuto is not going to alter the structure or size of the car for you (that's definitely a one size fits all deal), but they will let you choose more than just the color.Click To TweetMcLaren Speedtail in the Astral theme. Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Dynamic Theme & Additional Tailoring
Dynamic, which goes for modern, sporty, futuristic, and sumptuous is epitomized by the Bloodline theme. Bespoke red on the exterior, with gloss black diamond cut wheels and silver brake calipers. Inside the driver’s seat is full aniline bespoke red, while the passengers sit on semi aniline bespoke white seats. The steering wheel clasp, paddle shifters, window and door bezel surround are highlighted in TPT carbon quartz white.
Then comes the really personalized, Savile Row custom-tailored parts of the McLaren Speedtail. Body and interior panels finished in satin 1K or gloss 1K with interwoven gold visual carbon fiber or anodized aluminum, which is pretty crazy, if you think about it. Interior options include nubuck and aniline leather, TPT carbon control surfaces, 18 carat white gold, and TPT carbon badging. Electro-chromatic glazing tints do away with the need for sun visors.
Related: The McLaren Speedtail is an angel in the outfield.
McLaren Speedtail in the Bloodline theme. Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Orange & Black Is The New Black
No, in case you’re asking, you don’t do this by checking a bunch of boxes on the order sheet. As a Speedtail buyer, you get your own Bespoke Liaison Manager to help bring your vision to life. Your Bespoke Liaison Manager is your personal connection to McLaren Special Operations to help you work on selecting colors and materials.
But honestly, none of this matters to me. I am a simple man, of simple automotive tastes, and I will take my McLaren Speedtail in Papaya Orange with a black interior, just like Bruce would have.
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.
McLaren Speedtail Interior Gallery

Interior gallery themes (left to right): Stratosphere, Astral, Bloodline.
Photos & Source: McLaren Automotive.

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Porsche Versus S&P: Can Sports Cars Top The Stock Market?

Porsche Versus S&P: Can Sports Cars Top The Stock Market? A RimBlades USA study examines the value of classic Porsche models against the S&P.
The 1956 356A 1600 Speedster and a 1997 993 Turbo are among the Porsche cars considered.
How did theses and other classic Porsches perform against the S&P? The results might surprise you.
Here’s one of those nifty stories about how much you would have made or lost buying and selling a particular kind of car versus the stock market. In this case, it’s Porsche versus the Standard & Poors 500 stock index. Stories like this come up every so often, and they actually go pretty far back. I once read a study that tied the Dow Jones into a woman’s hem lines in the 20s and 30s.
So something might or might not track with stock values, but the real question is can you make money off the car you just bought?
Solid Gold Volvos
I was hanging out with my friend Carl The Mechanic at his shop many moons ago. I got there just as a customer was paying up and leaving. He was glowing over some new Volvo station wagon with a bunch of factory performance stuff, concluding: “I have to buy one! The money I’ll make selling it will pay my kids college tuition.”
After he left, Carl looked at me and said, “why don’t people understand you never make money with cars, you only lose money?”
Some Exclusions Apply . . .
Obviously this is not true across the board. If you buy something rare now, chances are, it’ll be worth more in the long run. Stuff like Ferraris and certain kinds of Lamborghinis and such, yes, over a fairly long period, decades at a minimum. But most cars, nah. You should always buy it because you like the car and will enjoy owning it. If you make money off it later, then so much the better.
So what does the latest data show us when Porsche takes on the Standard & Poors 500?
“The good news is that a 918 Spyder’s value is headed in the right direction,” said Adam Dangleman, Director of RimBlades USA. “The bad news is selling your classic Speedster isn’t adding much to your retirement savings.”
Porsche 918 Sypder. Photo: Porsche AG.
Porsche Versus The S&P: Stocks Outpace Sports Cars
RimBlades USA looked at four specific Porsche models in their study: a 1956 356A 1600 Speedster, a 1997 993 Turbo, a 2004 Carrera GT, and a 2015 918 Spyder. And guess what? None of them really worked that well as an investment. Only the 918 outpaced the S&P, and not by much.
When you look at the graphic below, you see how things are kind of wonky. First off, they use “auction value” for what any of these cars are worth today, calculating that against the S&P gain or loss since the car was new. What is an auction value? It’s not the sale price of a car, I can tell you that. Auction sale prices are notoriously quirky, to put it mildly.
All you need is two or three real estate developers or pharma salesmen with fat waistlines and even fatter wallets to get it into their heads that they just have to buy their (4th) wife that cute little Goggomobil at the Mecum auction, and next thing you know, you’ve got a Goggomobil TS Coupe going for used Aston Martin money, when a year ago they could be bought for the down payment on a minivan.

All you need is two or three real estate developers or pharma salesmen with fat waistlines and even fatter wallets to get it into their heads that they just have to buy their (4th) wife that cute little Goggomobil at the Mecum auction.Click To TweetJumping To Conclusions
Also, two of the three Porsche cars, the 1997 993 Turbo and the 2004 Carrera GT haven’t been around long enough to smooth out the ups and downs of the collector market. In the mid-70s, dealers couldn’t give muscle cars away, and now they are selling for ridiculous six-figure prices.
Give both of those cars another 20 years or so, and then we can talk about their “inherent value.”
Curiously, the 1956 356A 1600 Speedster doesn’t do so well either. Given how those things have skyrocketed in price over the last decade, the fact it hauls in only half of what you would have gotten from the S&P index over the same time is kind of oddly impressive. Also, yes, we here at Automoblog Towers noticed that the picture RimBlades USA has on their graphic is of a 356 Coupe and not a Speedster.
Related: Happiness is a state of mind: a day spent with the Porsche GT3 RS.
1956 Porsche 356 A Speedster. Photo: Porsche AG.
Blowing Bubbles
The only one of the quartet that does make money is the 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder, and even then it’s around $75-thou. Even more importantly in the case of the 918 is the timeframe. For one, it’s too short, for another, the stock market has been a little nuts lately for a bunch of really scary reasons you don’t have to be Alfred P. Sloan to figure out. And, even more concretely, the three year time span is relevant because we’re in the secondary market bubble portion of the sales life of a very specific supercar.
The secondary market bubble is when the first owners of a highly desirable car finally sell it onto the secondary market, allowing those that were not in line to, at last, buy the car they’ve been lusting after. When you’re in the secondary market bubble, the selling price is usually much more than the MSRP ever was.
Then that price will slowly drop to more reasonable levels as more and more of that model hit the secondary market (good ol’ supply and demand) along with the “shiny and new” element also fading away.
Porsche 911 Speedster Concept. Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
The only one of the quartet that does make money is the 2015 @Porsche 918 Spyder.Click To TweetFuture Considerations
But like I said, don’t buy a car because you think it’s going to make you money, but because you’ll enjoy owning it and driving it. And personally, I could have any of these cars and would enjoy driving them very much.
“Playing the stock market always has some ups and downs,” Dangleman said. “But if you invest in a Porsche, you’re at least guaranteed a consistently great driving experience.”
Except for the Carrera GT. Those things are evil handling killers, even by Porsche standards.
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.

918 Spyder Cover Photo: Picture Book, Stefan Bogner, Delius Klasing (DK) of Germany, 2015.
Methodology
Here is how RimBlades USA calculated the final figures in this study:

Start with the original MSRP of each vehicle.

Take that and consider an investment into an S&P fund on January 1st of the car’s model year.

Take the 2018 value, or the price it fetched at auction, for each vehicle.

Subtract the MSRP from that number. There’s the return on the car.

Using the DQYDJ S&P Periodic Investment Calculator, determine the return of the MSRP investment that would have been deposited January 1st of the specific year.

The chart represents the returns on the S&P investments as of January 1st 2018.

Calculations do not include maintenance, taxes, or insurance costs.

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Ford, Roush Develop 700 Horsepower 5.0-Liter Supercharger Kit

Ford, Roush Develop 700 Horsepower 5.0-Liter Supercharger Kit

You know why they put buckles on the back of straight jackets? They do that so even if the crazy person gets out of the sleeves, they can’t undo the buckles and get loose. You know what happens when the nuts get loose? Oh all sorts of bad things. They can start fires and run for Congress or, in the case we have here, cook up a bolt-on supercharger kit that will screw the output of Ford’s 5.0-liter V8 up to seven-hundred horsepower, and then sell it to anyone with cash. This isn’t a great idea. No. This is an insanely great idea!
Crazy Train
To the gearhead, the ones involved really need no introduction. One is Ford Performance. You know, the guys that always answer any question with the phrases “More power! More brakes! More grip!” The other is Roush Performance: the guys that run NASCAR race teams and hand-build engines for Ford GTs. And let us not forget Roush Performance is headed by Jack Roush, a gearhead so bent in his love of speed he crashed his own airplanes, not once but three separate times (by my count), and one of those times included spiking a WWII vintage P-51 Mustang into a lake.
Or to put it another way, they’re the perfect professionals to design and build something like this.
Dual Applications
This, in this case, happens to be a new, state-of-the-art supercharger that peaks at 700 horsepower for the V8-powered 2018 Mustang GT. Ford Performance and Roush Performance rolled the beast out at this year’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The blower kit is specifically designed to work with Ford’s evergreen 5.0-liter V8 and the mill’s new port and direct injection fuel systems. Yes, it’s good for 700 ponies but it also offers 610 lb-ft. of torque at 12 psi of boost, running on 93 octane fuel for either the manual or automatic transmission. You can get 93 octane at the pump, right? At least around here I see 93 high test, so, cool, you can run it on pump gas!
Ford and Roush also designed the supercharger to work on the same engine when placed within the bay of a pickup truck. When situated within a 2018 F-150, the plant provides 640 horsepower and 600 lb-ft. of foundation distorting torque.
2018 Ford F-150. Photo: Ford Motor Company.

Strong Relationships
And yeah, this is a literal kit that comes with all installation hardware, instructions, and an exclusive performance calibration set up. The new supercharger kit is also backed by a limited warranty and supported by the Ford Motor Company and Roush network. And no, the installation of this kit will not void any new vehicle warranty. And yes, you can start your screwball cackling right about now.
And let’s not forget these guys, both Ford and Roush, are serious. They have a successful working relationship that goes back more than two decades, and really know their stuff when it comes to squeezing performance out of Ford powertrains. So when they say it’s a complete kit and it’s backed by a warranty, they ain’t joking. They might be a little nuts, but they ain’t joking.
“Ford and Roush have teamed up on performance for years on and off the track,” said Doug White, Global Ford Performance Parts Manager. “This new supercharger is another great example of our innovation in performance, greatly improving horsepower and torque so people can enjoy two of our most iconic vehicles even more.”
The new supercharger kit is warrantied when installed by a Ford dealer or any Automotive Service Excellence-certified (ASE) technician. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
No Regrets
If that’s not good enough, take it from the man his own self: “Our teams collaborated to create the most highly engineered, tested, and performing supercharger kit on the market. The combination of the 2018 5.0-liter engine and our all-new, fully integrated 2650 supercharger system yields simply incredible, no-compromise performance,” shrieked Jack Roush, Chairman, Board of Directors, Roush Performance before a couple of massive guys in white coats threw a net over him, and hauled him back to the Dearborn Center for The Chronically Speed Obsessed Who Are Not Allowed to Have Scissors.
The new supercharger kit will be available early next year through Ford dealers, Ford Performance Warehouse Distributors, and Roush Performance dealers. And, get this, you won’t even need a note from your doctor or therapist, nor a signed release document from a major law firm. America baby, America!
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias toward lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.

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2018 Civic Type R: Nürburgring First, Now The Showfloor

2018 Civic Type R: Nürburgring First, Now The Showfloor

The 2018 Civic Type R drifted into Honda dealerships this week, following a limited production run of 2017 models. The Civic Type R, the most powerful car Honda has ever sold in the United States, boasted a rather impressive Nürburgring time earlier this year. The starting MSRP is not all that unreasonable either, coming in just shy of $35,000 once the destination charge is applied. The 2018 Civic Type R is available in only one, but fully equipped, trim.
Power & Performance
The Civic Type R has one of Honda’s most advanced turbocharged engines to date. The 2.0-liter is characterized by direct injection, a dual overhead cam, and Honda’s evergreen VTEC technology. The engine creates 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque. Other performance goodies include a short-throw 6-speed manual transmission with new, lower gear ratios and a limited slip differential.
Suspension Tech
To combat torque steer, a common condition for front-wheel drive vehicles, a special front (dual-axis strut) and multi-link rear suspension were devised. The combination is meant to provide stability under both acceleration and braking while reducing body roll. The Adaptive Damper System continually adjusts damping force at all four corners for better overall handling, and is connected to the Three-Mode Driving System: comfort, sport, and the more track-oriented +R mode. The damper, steering, and throttle responses are modified according to the selected mode.
Photo: Honda North America.
Connectivity & Safety
Connectivity features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition. The vehicle has a host of advanced safety features too: Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control, Advanced 4-Channel ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution, and a multi-angle rearview camera among others.
The 2018 Civic Type R for the U.S. market is manufactured exclusively at Honda’s Swindon, UK plant, while the engines are produced in Anna, Ohio.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Honda North America.

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