Automotive

Ford & Pittsburgh Launch “City of Tomorrow Challenge” To Enhance Mobility

Ford & Pittsburgh Launch “City of Tomorrow Challenge” To Enhance Mobility Pittsburgh, City of Tomorrow! Pittsburgh, city of jet packs and pneumatic tube delivery systems! Pittsburgh, city of efficiency! Pittsburgh, city . . . city . . . okay, right, Pittsburgh is partnering with Ford to work on one of those old urban city center bug-a-boos: efficient transportation.
Makes sense, in a way. Why not give some experimental solutions a go?
The Concept
It’s called “Pittsburgh City of Tomorrow Challenge” and it’s a collaboration with Ford Motor Company, the city of Pittsburgh itself, Dell Technologies, Microsoft, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, and public stakeholders. The aim is to build a crowdsourcing platform for residents, businesses, and community groups that allows for input on and implementation of pilot solutions that improve mobility within Pittsburgh.
The Pittsburgh of tomorrow will be very different from the Pittsburgh of the past, that goes without saying, but in case you like facts to back up observations, you can also take into account that a United Nations report on world urbanization found that 66 percent of the world’s population will live in cities by 2050.
So, as urban populations expand and new technologies present themselves, it would behoove us to seriously look at the way people move around cities. And if Pittsburgh has anything to say about it, it will be green, accessible, sustainable, and built around the needs of the people.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Photo: Sean Pavone.
Collaborative Approach
The City of Tomorrow is Ford’s vision for the future that seeks to understand the needs of a given population, and make continuous efforts to implement things that address transportation questions: are there more efficient ways to use bridges, how can we enable people to get to work or spend more time connecting with friends and family, those sort of questions. And rather than taking a top-down approach, Ford has connected with individual communities around the mobility issues those communities care about most.
This collaboration with Pittsburgh pairs Ford’s technology expertise and its partners with the real-world experience and the stories of Pittsburgh and its residents. This creates an opportunity to propose ideas for how data, design, and technology could be put to use to adequately address the city’s future needs.
The City of Tomorrow is an eight-month program involving residents, businesses, and community organizations, each sharing how they experience transportation in Pittsburgh, and how the current transportation available either enables them or functions as an obstacle in their daily lives. And it’s not just moving people around town. Pittsburgh city officials are also looking for ideas that enhance intracity mobility in a number of ways, such as improving access to travel information, building confidence in existing systems, and soliciting ideas for improvements to already established services.
A business man travels by bus.
How It Works
Those interested can go to the Challenge website where they can share their experiences, sign up for community working sessions, and offer insight into the variety of ways people currently move around Pittsburgh. On top of that, Pittsburgh city staff will be out at local neighborhood festivities and events to engage with residents directly.
Participants can submit ideas for accessible solutions starting on July 2nd.
In September, semi-finalists will be selected to attend prototyping sessions, as well as receive mentoring support to further refine their ideas before submitting a final pilot proposal. In the Challenge’s finishing stage, $100,000 will be awarded to selected pilot plans in an effort to test the proposed strategy in partnership with the City of Pittsburgh, Ford, and other corporate partners.
The Miami-Dade City of Tomorrow Challenge is also underway with the same initiatives as the Pittsburgh program.
City of Tomorrow. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Future Considerations
Will it work? Well, in one way, Pittsburgh is a great place to test this sort of thing: It’s old, a lot of the streets were designed way before cars, there’s public transportation already in place, and the infrastructure and its funding has been neglected since Ronald Reagan was president.
It’s not a worst case scenario, but it is a pretty bad scenario, and that should show what solutions work best in pretty short order and in pretty stark contrast. It might not “work” but it should render a ton of valuable information.
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. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.

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2018 Ford F-150: Bad Ideas, Big Bets And Beer Can Jokes

2018 Ford F-150: Bad Ideas, Big Bets And Beer Can Jokes

Ford Motor Company has, in recent times, put a strong emphasis on material composition. When I was selling Ford trucks seven, eight years ago, the high-strength steel frames were always a focal point. As sales consultants, we would often explain the frame’s benefits, touching on things like towing capability, payload capacity, and overall durability. At the time, Ford was not modest about their steel frame technology (they aren’t today either), so talking about it was a good way to win a customer over on an F-150.
In late 2014, I was part of a group that traveled the country to educate Ford dealers on the forthcoming 2015 F-150. The training was absolutely essential for Ford’s dealership body. The 2015 F-150 was a bold move for the blue oval yet again, as they announced an even smaller EcoBoost in the 2.7 after unveiling the 3.5 version in 2011. It wasn’t just the engine, however. The entire body of the truck was now something called “military-grade aluminum.”
This brought up a whirlwind of reservations, concerns, and even jokes.
Sound Science
Yet Ford is no dummy and the reasoning behind their decisions regarding the F-150 are very sound. Look, Ford ain’t going to bet the farm on their best-selling vehicle. So if Ford decides to drop a smaller, turbocharged plant into their trucks, or go with an aluminum intensive body, there is every reason to believe the i’s are dotted and the t’s are crossed.
Not that I want to spark a huge debate here over naturally aspirated engines versus turbocharged ones – both have advantages – but the EcoBoost is a torque monster. And not that I want to strike up a similar parley on aluminum versus steel – again, both have advantages – but aluminum allowed the F-150 to shed vital pounds, thereby creating a more optimum power-to-weight ratio, which only amplifies the already roid rage nature of the EcoBoost engines.
The point is, Ford is becoming a master of less weight, lower displacement, but higher capacity. They effectively say, “we have the stability and rigidity of steel underneath in the frame, the lightweight, yet durable nature of aluminum on the outside, and a more efficient, more powerful plant under the hood.” Ford is in combination mode at all times, pulling out the benefits of various materials and engine technologies to provide, in the F-150, a single invincible (nearly) vehicle.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Family Tree
The F-150’s older brother, the Super Duty, reflects this too. The forthcoming 2018 Expedition, the latest in the family to receive an aluminum body and a steel frame makeover, also reflects it. Not exactly a direct comparison, but remember when the 5.0 Mustang debuted in 2011 and dusted stock Camaros and Challengers on a quarter mile? Smallest displacement engine of the three, so on paper it may not have initially computed, until the Mustang’s weight entered the equation.
Ford is working this concept deeper into their DNA, and it’s seen once again with their flagship F-150. The truck for 2018 continues its usage of a high-strength steel frame and military-grade aluminum body, but with more efficient, more powerful engines. The first is the 3.3-liter V6 for the entry level F-150s. The plant adds dual port and direct injection to create more torque and provide better fuel economy. With the aluminum body factored in, the standard 3.3-liter V6 offers a 5 percent power-to-weight ratio improvement versus the steel-bodied 2014 F-150 with the 3.7-liter V6.
The 2.7 EcoBoost, entering its second-generation, jumps from 375 lb-ft. of torque to 400 lb-ft., with the increase happening at lower engine speeds. The 2.7 is now paired to a segment-exclusive 10-speed automatic transmission to increase performance and efficiency. Next spring, a 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 diesel arrives for the F-150, a mill designed, engineered, and tested in-house by the blue oval. With Ram’s EcoDiesel, the Titan’s Cummins, and the Colorado’s Duramax (with rumors Silverado will get similar treatment), it was only a matter of time before Ford introduced something like this.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.

V6 King, V8 Kingdom
The 3.5-liter EcoBoost remains unchanged in power from 2017 to 2018, standing tall at 370 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque. Horsepower nutzos can go for the Raptor, where the high-output 3.5 EcoBoost wraps up 450 ponies and 510 lb-ft. of torque in a nice little package. Yes, a V6 boasting these numbers in a truck was, at one time, a little odd, and goodness knows those early days of moving EcoBoost F-150s took some salesmanship.
A hardcore truck buyer at the time was often resistant to the idea that a V6 could do the job (and a better one) of their V8. I was lucky my underwear didn’t end up flying high on one of the light poles over the lot, as if it were some dealership rendition of the Nickelodeon series, Salute Your Shorts.
“Hey look, that’s Carl’s underwear up there over the used minivans!”
Today, however, Ford’s customers are not out of sorts with the array of V6 engines, and Ford sales consultants need not be in fear for their drawers. If anything, customers have readily embraced Ford as the V6 king: 75 percent of new Ford trucks this year have rolled off the showfloor with V6 engines.
And Ford still offers an impressive 5.0-liter plant. Significant upgrades were made for 2018 to the dual port and direct injection systems to increase performance. The 2018 F-150 engine received the same spray-on bore liner treatment as the Mustang GT350 in an effort to remove additional weight from the aluminum block. Expect this engine to be paired with the aforementioned 10-speed automatic for 2018.
The F-150’s 5.0-liter V8 at the 2017 North American International Auto Show. Photo: Carl Anthony for Automoblog.net.
Terrible Ideas, Remarkable Outcomes
It’s important to note the 3.5 EcoBoost was hanging around Ford’s camp for a moment before being dropped into the F-150 in 2011. The Taurus SHO and Flex had it, as did the Lincoln MKS and MKT. It wasn’t until it hit the F-150 that Ford became bonkers. And aluminum, alas aluminum. It’s fine for airplanes, high-speed rail trains, skyscrapers, electrical wires, supercars, and the iPhone, but in a truck it’s just plain stupid? No foreseeable benefits whatsoever, just a beer can on wheels. Notice how aluminum, just like V6 engines in a truck, didn’t become a terrible, half-baked idea until Ford started landing segment-leading figures in towing, payload, and fuel economy with their stupidity.
Ford’s massive truck mistakes will arrive this fall, built by hardworking men and women at the Dearborn Truck Plant in Dearborn, Michigan, and the Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Missouri.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. Photos, Source & Graphic: Ford Motor Company.

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2018 Volkswagen Tiguan: Pricing & Trim Level Overview

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan: Pricing & Trim Level Overview

Volkswagen of America, Inc. has announced the pricing, equipment options, and trim levels for the 2018 Tiguan. VW designers focused on a modern look with the vehicle’s body lines and wider stance. The automaker’s MBQ architecture, which the new Tiguan is built from, is important to note. The vehicle gains 10.6 inches in length over the prior model for a whopping 58 percent more cargo space.
The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan comes with a four-cylinder turbocharged and direct-injection 2.0-liter TSI engine, creating 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft. of torque.
The engine is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Tiguan S
Front-wheel drive models start at $25,345 while the all-wheel drive versions are slightly higher at $26,645. The all-wheel drive Tiguan will have an advantage in bad weather with its four different drive modes to enhance grip and stability.
17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, LED Daytime Running Lights, LED taillights, and black roof rails decorate the exterior. Inside the S features a classy Rhombus pattern on the seats, 6.5-inch Composition Color touchscreen with Bluetooth capability, a USB port, six speakers, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
There is even a trailer hitch and reverse camera to make light hauling a breeze.
Tiguan SE
The SE bumps Tiguan owners up to a host of active safety features, including Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring (Front Assist), and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert. A Composition Media infotainment system now features a larger, 8-inch screen with three USB ports.
The reverse camera from the S stays put but features what VW calls “dynamic guidelines” to help assist with maneuvering in reverse. The multi-function leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather gear shift knob, and leatherette seating surfaces all make for nice touches. The SE is well priced at $29,080 for the front-wheel drive version; $30,380 for all-wheel drive.
Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Tiguan SEL
This is our favorite in the Tiguan lineup given its dollar to value comparison. Essentially, there is more “stuff” than the SE for not a lot more coin. In our minds, the SEL has everything one would need, with a few extras, but nothing over the top as to cause a bump in price. The aforementioned driver assistance systems remain in the SEL but the design elements reflect a more premium feel. For example, the SEL rides on 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and driver’s can enjoy the view with a panoramic sunroof, or easily find their destination with the on-board navigation.
At night, the interior is brought to life with the ambient lighting.
The SEL front-wheel drive starts at $32,550 with the all-wheel drive landing at $33,850. Our suggestion (regardless of trim level) is the all-wheel drive, but we are used to a Michigan climate. Those living in areas without snow will do fine with front-wheel drive.
Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Tiguan SEL Premium
While we would be satisfied with the SEL, those wanting a bit more can opt for the SEL Premium with its stylish 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Convenience features include rain-sensing wipers, power-folding door mirrors with puddle lights, and a hands-free open/close power liftgate.
Safety is again a priority for VW as they equip the SEL Premium with Lane Departure Warning (Lane Assist), automatic High Beam Control (Light Assist), front and rear Park Distance Control (ParkPilot), and an Overhead View Camera. A Fender stereo, 12.3 inch Digital Cockpit display, and heated steering wheel are also included in the SEL Premium.
Front-wheel drive models start at $36,250 while all-wheel drive versions begin at $37,550.
Additional Packages & Availability
Third-row seating comes standard on front-wheel drive models but is optional on all-wheel drive variants for $500.00. The Driver Assistance package includes a handful of advanced safety features for $850.00; the panoramic sunroof runs $1,200. Our personal favorite is the R-Line package with more sporty design elements both inside and out. Expect to see the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan in dealerships this summer.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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Hagerty Auto Insurance: Reviews, Costs, and More (2020)

Hagerty Auto Insurance: Reviews, Costs, and More (2020) Hagerty Auto InsuranceIn Our Opinion:Hagerty auto insurance reviews are largely positive, so your prized possession will be in good hands with this classic car insurance provider.Industry Standing90Availability100Coverage80Affordability90Customer Service90Online Experience80ProsAvailable in all 50 statesMore affordable than standard auto insurance policiesAvailable through standard car insurance providers like ProgressiveSpeedy claims process according to Hagerty auto insurance reviewsConsDoes not cover lowriders88Affiliate disclosure: Automoblog and its partners may be compensated when you purchase the products below.

Hagerty provides car insurance in all 50 states for classic, collector, exotic, and antique vehicles.Hagerty is known for having a speedy claims process and a long-standing history of excellence according to customers and industry experts.Comprehensive benefits and access to a community of collector’s car enthusiasts are available through the Hagerty Driver’s Club®.When it comes to insuring your classic or collector’s car, you want to choose a provider that will care about your vehicle as much as you do. Hagerty auto insurance reviews are favorable, but is it the right company for you?

In this article, we’ll review Hagerty auto insurance plans to give you a better sense of whether this provider would be a good fit for your coverage needs and budget. We’ll also discuss the differences between getting classic auto insurance from one of the industry’s best car insurance companies or choosing a specialty insurance provider.

To see insurance rates in your area, fill out the form below.

Hagerty Auto Insurance Overview

Hagerty is a leading provider of insurance policies for classic and collector cars. The company was founded in 1984 as a boat insurance company and started insuring classic cars in 1991.

Throughout its nearly two-decade history in the classic car insurance industry, Hagerty has become reputable for its dedication to customers and extensive knowledge of classic cars and the unique needs that vintage vehicles require.

Read on to take a closer look at coverage, cost, and Hagerty auto insurance reviews.

Hagerty Auto Insurance Coverage

Hagerty provides coverage for antique and classic cars, modified vehicles made in 1980 or later, and classic trucks and utility vehicles. Due to the novel nature of these vehicles, most are not used for everyday purposes and therefore do not need the same coverage as standard automobiles.

Under Hagerty’s Guaranteed Value® auto insurance, classic car owners get the following coverage:

Agreed value policy: If your vehicle is deemed a total loss after a covered incident, Hagerty will refund you the total cost of your car’s agreed-upon value without depreciation.Spare parts coverage: This benefit gives drivers $750 of comprehensive coverage for tools and spare parts to keep their vehicles running efficiently.Hagerty Drivers Club®: This 24/7 roadside assistance program includes lockouts, battery jump-starts, tire changes, emergency fuel delivery, and more and guarantees flatbed towing with soft straps.Auto show medical reimbursement: If you or someone in your family gets injured during an auto show or related event, the cost of injuries will be covered up to $10,000.Hagerty Auto Insurance: Limitations on Coverage

On its website, Hagerty auto insurance reviews certain limitations on how coverage can be used. For example, if your classic car is insured by Hagerty, it cannot be used for daily driving. All members of your household with a driver’s license must have a vehicle meant for daily use. This is a common limitation when it comes to classic car insurance.

Your classic car insured by Hagerty must also be garaged or kept in a residential storage unit.

Drivers who are not eligible for Hagerty auto insurance include high-risk drivers with a history of DUIs, excessive speeding, or reckless driving.

One perk to Hagerty auto insurance is that there are no daily mileage limitations on occasional pleasure drives. This includes trips to club functions, exhibitions, tours, and organized meetings.

Hagerty Auto Insurance Cost

Hagerty states that its collector car insurance policies are 39 percent less expensive than a regular car insurance policy. Monthly premium costs from Hagerty start at $100, but this price varies by state. Zero-dollar deductibles are available for many vehicles.

Hagerty Drivers Club

For $45 more per year, a Hagerty auto insurance customer can become a Hagerty Driver’s Club member. This is a community for car enthusiasts to enjoy members-only events, get select automotive discounts, and receive a subscription to Hagerty’s magazine.

How to Get a Quote & File a Claim

Hagerty’s business model makes it unique. The company partners with local independent insurance agencies and classic auto insurance providers like Progressive to administer its collector car insurance policies. Or, you can get a quote straight from Hagerty. Visit the company’s website to find a local retailer or get an online quote.

Hagerty Auto Insurance Claims

Hagerty auto insurance reviews report a speedy claims process. Likewise, Hagerty promises a claims adjuster will contact you within one business day after you report your claim. Hagerty also has an in-house parts specialist who can help you find replacement parts for your classic vehicle.

If you are a Hagerty auto insurance customer and have been in an accident, you should contact Hagerty immediately to file a claim. Depending on your policy, Hagerty may have a certain time restriction on how long you have to report a claim. Get in touch with the Hagerty claims department online or over the phone.

Hagerty Auto Insurance Reviews

Hagerty auto insurance reviews are largely in favor of the company’s coverage options and customer service. Hagerty enjoys positive ratings from industry experts like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which rates companies based on business ethics, and AM Best, which rates financial capabilities to pay out customer claims.

Hagerty auto insurance policies for classic and collector cars are underwritten by one of the following insurance companies, each of which has an AM Best rating of an A (Excellent) or better:

Essentia Insurance CompanyNationwide Mutual Insurance CompanyNationwide Insurance Company of AmericaHagerty has an A+ rating from the BBB, which bodes well for the company’s customer satisfaction and business ethics.

When it comes to Hagerty auto insurance reviews from customers, Trustpilot shows 88 percent of customers view the company as “Excellent,” and it has an average overall rating of 4.6 out of 5.0 stars.

Positive Hagerty auto insurance reviews detail the company’s quick claims processing, great customer service, and clear, efficient communication. Negative customer reviews show drivers are upset the company doesn’t cover lowriders or cars with modified rims and paint.

Final Thoughts on Hagerty Auto Insurance

Hagerty auto insurance reviews reflect the company’s reliability and longstanding history of excellence in the collector and classic automotive industry. Hagerty is a well-known, top-rated provider of classic car insurance and could be a good provider for your insurance needs. For these reasons, we give Hagerty an 88% rating.

Top Recommendations for Car Insurance

If you’re looking for the best classic auto insurance, we recommend looking into Progressive or Grundy and comparing quotes to find the right policy for your vintage vehicle. You can fill out the form below to start comparing free quotes in your area.

Progressive Classic Car Insurance

With a strong industry reputation and comprehensive coverage, Progressive could be a good option for your classic car insurance needs. Progressive partners with Hagerty to provide policies for classic cars. So, if you already have Progressive auto insurance or are thinking about switching, you may be able to bundle policies to get a better price on coverage.

To qualify for Progressive classic car insurance, your car must be:

More than 25 years oldKept in an enclosed structure like a garageA secondary vehicle that’s not used for your everyday transportationIn order to qualify for Progressive classic auto insurance, as a driver, you must:

Maintain an auto insurance policy on your regular-use vehicleNot have any DUI or reckless driving tickets in the past three yearsGrundy Classic Car Insurance

Grundy is another classic car insurance provider that has top ratings from customers and industry professionals. Grundy offers customers the following policies:

Liability insurance: Covers up to $1,000,000 in the event that you cause injury or property damage to another party while drivingCollision insurance: Covers damage done to your car after an accidentComprehensive insurance: Covers non-collision related damage to your car such as damage from an extreme weather event, damage from theft, or chemical damagePersonal injury protection (PIP): Protects you from paying the full cost of your injuries after an accidentAgreed value insurance: Pays you the agreed-upon value of your car in the event of a total lossAs you can see, Grundy offers more coverage options than Hagerty auto insurance. Plus, Grundy plans come with the following benefits:

$0 deductibleTowing and labor up to $250Spare parts inventory coverage up to $500Trip interruption reimbursement up to $600Automatic coverage for newly purchased vehiclesInflation guard to protect the value of your policy along with your car’s increase in valueOriginal article: Hagerty Auto Insurance: Reviews, Costs, and More (2020)

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Letter From The UK: How To Confuse British Drivers

Letter From The UK: How To Confuse British Drivers Wales is a small country that forms part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain. Like most nations, they have their own customs and traditions. In the case of Wales they also have their own language: Welsh. Once, this tongue almost died out thanks to the ubiquity of English, but, more recently, it has had a major resurgence.
This has reached the point now where the language is widely spoken. It is part of national pride and why not?
Sign of The Times
The language is now so widely accepted the Welsh government declared all road and other official signs and symbols should appear in both Welsh and English. This, as you can imagine, was a major undertaking, much like duplicating road signage in the USA to both American English and wind-talking Navajo.
Fine for those indigenous peoples but what about we UK tourists? This is where the system falls down because the British on holiday are not noted for their common sense, or willingness to join in with local traditions and customs.
Thus, in Wales, signs to places are duplicated and by the time a car travelling at, say, 50 mph has reached the sign, the driver is confused by the mix of languages. With British drivers this is not difficult. This is why they fall easy prey to the Welsh police who are also known as “Heddlu.”
By the time the erring driver has worked it out, they are, in UK parlance, nicked by the cops.
Heddlu is the Welsh-language word for police, meaning “keeper of peace.”
And Europe Is Even Worse
On continental Europe they, like you Americans, drive on the right-hand side of the road. This has always been incomprehensible to British drivers. You can hear this conversation in a British registered car anywhere in Europe:
“Look darling, look! Foreigners! Why are they all on the wrong side of the road? And why are they all shaking their fists at us? Don’t they like us?”
Well, broadly speaking, no. It was bad enough before Brexit. Now we are the lepers of the European Union.
The French police actively target UK drivers for example. It’s a sport for them. This is because we Brits are left baffled when driving around Europe, as four in five unfortunates struggle to correctly identify foreign road signs whilst motoring abroad. On these strange foreign highways they also insist on using something called a “kilometer” instead of a “mile,” and they wonder why we seem to be speeding.
I ask you, is that fair? After all our dashboard dials are calibrated in miles. 50 is 50 isn’t it?

Turn Left, Right?
They have such odd rules. The Italians, for example, have something called indirect turns. It works like this: you, the driver, are on the right-hand side of the road but want to turn left; but in certain circumstances and in certain towns and cities, you must first turn right, go around a whole block, and then traverse the route you just came up on to finally get on the left-hand side!
I mean, does that make any sense at all?
The fact is, the majority of Brits abroad admit to having little to no understanding of foreign regulations and road signs, and few conduct any research into a foreign country’s Highway Regulations before driving on the roads. This is the British way and it probably stems from the time when we ruled the world. “Let them adapt to us,” is our mantra.
And we wonder why they don’t like us.

Language Barriers
Traditionally, when we take vacations in foreign countries, rather than take the trouble to learn the language we prefer to say what we want in English, ONLY LOUDER.
This writer, to his public shame but secret pleasure, very many years ago, was arrested with others while skinny-dipping by night in Lake Geneva. It is a well known fact that Swiss police have no sense of humour. In truth, Swiss authority generally is pretty uptight, especially where cars and drivers are concerned, so without ceremony we were duly marched off to spend the night in the cells.
It is probably a good thing the UK is leaving the European Union (although the latest news is that the issue will be fudged – more on that next time with the emphasis on a shock to the automotive industry).
As an island nation we have our own ideas about how things should be done. Is it any wonder we get confused?
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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If Motorcycle Manufacturers Made Cars: A Sneak Peek!

If Motorcycle Manufacturers Made Cars: A Sneak Peek! Japanese car maker Honda started out by crafting motorcycles in 1949, and the company is still regarded as the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer today. Unbeknownst to many, Honda made automotive piston rings for Toyota before shifting their attention to motorized two-wheeled bicycles.
And the rest, as they say, is history.
This is a great example of a motorcycle manufacturer who decided to make cars. But what if Aprilia, Ducati, and other iconic motorcycle brands shifted their attention to the crazy world of automotive manufacturing?
Our friends at Jennings Harley-Davidson came up with a design study on what would happen if motorcycle manufacturers made cars. Just what would a Harley-Davidson or Triumph car would look like? Feast your eyes on what could (or should) have been.
Aprilia
Taking inspiration from the Aprilia Dorsoduro 900 supermotard and RSV4 sport bike, this Aprilia off-road buggy is screaming for action! And as we all know, nothing is more fun than blasting over sand dunes behind the wheel of a sports buggy. In true Italian tradition, this Aprilia car is as stylish as the Carabinieri with a splash of ruggedness thrown in the mix.
Andiamo!

Kawasaki
This sporting rendition of a Kawasaki vehicle resembles the love child of a Lamborghini Aventador and KTM X-Bow after a night of cocktails, cheese, and binge-watching the entire Fast and the Furious franchise. We particularly like the hunkered down look of the front end and the contrasting matte gray paint job with alien green detailing.
The rear spoiler is a bit overdone to be quite honest but the windshield looks enough to block the wind from ruining your selfie as you drive.

Harley-Davidson
This Harley-Davidson hot rod means business. It has the facial expression of a Ford Model T but with larger and wider wheel arches for a more aggressive look. No hot rod or rat rod is complete without a large, stonking motor in the front, massive headers and exhausts on the side, and the curvaceous rump of a 1967 Corvette Stingray convertible.
We also like the tall windscreen that is pretty similar to the one found on the Harley-Davidson Road King and Road Glide Ultra.

Triumph
English motorcycle builder Triumph is best known for the Bonnie or Bonneville which was first sold in 1959. And since the Bonnie was named after the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, this rendition is clearly derived from the aggressive design of classic muscle cars.
The front end is a cross between the fascia of a 69 Ford Mustang Boss 429 and 69 Chevrolet Camaro. Equipped with a lowered stance and chunky, low-profile tires with an all-terrain tread design (does this type of tire exist?), this Triumph car is primed and ready to break speed records.

Vespa
This Vespa car is a love-it or hate-it affair. While we did find the front styling to be a bit troubling, everything from the A-pillar backwards is undeniably a Vespa. Also undeniable is the marriage between the Volkswagen Beetle and Citroen DS. If you squint hard and ignore the obvious front styling, you will also see a hint of Porsche 911 Targa in there.
Quite interesting, this car.
But if Vespa is kind enough to shoehorn a turbocharged flat-six motor in the rear end, this could turn out to be an exciting and roofless driving experience.

Ducati
Ducati, Lamborghini, and Audi are essentially under the same umbrella. This exquisite rendition of a Ducati track machine looks like an Ariel Atom on steroids. It seems to have inherited the track-biased, pushrod suspension of the Lamborghini Aventador too. We’re not exactly sure if the height of the windscreen is enough to prevent incoming air from distorting your mug as you pile on the speed, however.
But with slick tires and a pair of massive exhausts screaming at the back of your head, this Ducati vehicle is slated to deliver a raw and unadulterated driving experience.

Vice Versa
The Jennings Harley-Davidson team went the other way too, giving us a glimpse of what would happen if car brands made motorcycles. Jennings Harley-Davidson is part of the Jennings Motor Group family, which was established in 1911. If you want to experience Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the Jennings Harley-Davidson crew in Gateshead and Leeds are always available.
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.

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Even More (Yellow) Individual Flair: 2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S Edition 1

Even More (Yellow) Individual Flair: 2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S Edition 1 At least Mercedes doesn’t call it a four-door sports car, but even so, calling it a four-door coupe is almost bad enough. Coupes have two doors. Sedans have four doors. The Mercedes AMG GT 4-Door has, unsurprisingly, four doors.
It’s a sedan. But a very good sedan.
First Edition
Fundamentally, the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe has the basic underpinnings of the “normal” AMG GT Coupe. And since the AMG GT Coupe is pretty much a beast, then it’s not much of a stretch to see how the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe should also be as well.
And just to make you feel all special about not just purchasing an AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, but buying one of the first ones to show up, Merc has upped the ante (slightly) with a unique Edition 1 model with a bunch of exclusive interior and exterior bits for 2019.
Basically, early adopters get an AMG Aerodynamics Package, special wheels and paint, AMG Performance seats and steering wheel, and Matte Carbon-Fiber trim.
2019 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S Edition 1. Photo: MBUSA.
Aerodynamic Art
About that trick areo package. The AMG Aerodynamics Package for the Edition 1 comes with a larger front splitter and integrated aero flics in the front bumper. The diffuser has been “optimized” and the rear spoiler’s angle can be mechanically adjusted. The rear spoiler and larger front splitter, combined with the AIRPANEL active air management system, gets you a noticeable amount of additional downforce, mushing you to the Straße.
And as your cherry on top, the AMG Aerodynamics Package also contributes to lower drag, despite the higher downforce. Schlaue Jungs.
Photo: MBUSA.
Styling Treatments
Other bits and bobs on the outside further distinguish the AMG GT 63 S Edition 1. The paintwork is designo Graphite Grey Magno with matte Graphite Grey stripes on the sides, hood, roof, and decklid. (Hey, go-fast stripes! those should add another 1 mph to your top end, minimum buddy.) There are 21-inch cross-spoke forged wheels, painted matte black with a high-sheen finish, so, you know, you look cool.
Interior Fashions (And Scents)
The interior features such refinements as Multicontour Performance Seats with a Memory Package, Nappa Leather Upholstery in Magma Grey/Black with flashy yellow contrast stitching, a performance steering wheel in DINAMICA microfiber with more yellow stitching, a racy yellow 12 o’clock marking, and an even flashier “Edition 1” badge.
There’s lots of Matte Carbon-Fiber trim, the seatbelts are yellow, and the door center panels are Magma Grey. The instrument panel and door beltline get black Nappa leather with that same yellow top stitching. The door sill panels are illuminated and say “AMG.” There are edition-specific floor mats in black with a leather band and “AMG” lettering and, well this is a surprise, yellow top stitching.
Last but not least, every man, woman, and child on planet Earth will be overcome with joy when they realize the AIR-BALANCE Package comes with a new, dedicated “AMG #63” fragrance. Take your seats, take your seats!!

Power & Performance
The Edition 1 comes with the top-of-the-range, handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 bi-turbo engine, cranking out 630 horsepower and 664 lb-ft. of torque. Result? A top speed of 195 mph with a zero to 60 time of 3.1 seconds.
So like I said, it’s a sedan, but a very good sedan.
Availability
The AMG GT 63 and 63 S will arrive in the United States early next year, with the AMG GT 53 coming in mid-2019.
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. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
Photos & Source: MBUSA.

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GMC Introduces 2019 Yukon Graphite Editions: A Quick Look

GMC Introduces 2019 Yukon Graphite Editions: A Quick Look The GMC Yukon stable is getting a new member – two actually – in the form of Graphite Editions. The 2019 Yukon Graphite Editions feature a darkened and shaded exterior theme, while the Graphite Performance Edition adds a few performance-oriented upgrades.
The new Yukons join the Denali Ultimate Black Edition, another special edition Yukon that made its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show late last year.
Graphite Edition
Styling touches include 22-inch bright machined wheels with Carbon Flash Metallic pockets, black assist steps with gloss black accents, black chrome grille mesh insert, and fog lamp surrounds. Other blacked-out elements include the roof rails and beltline moldings, along with other various trim pieces.
The 2019 GMC Yukon Graphite Performance Edition features 22-inch six-spoke, gloss black wheels. Photo: GMC.
Graphite Performance Edition
This special Yukon includes the aforementioned styling elements but adds GM’s evergreen 6.2-liter V8 engine linked to a 10-speed automatic transmission (3.23 axle ratio) to reduce revolutions at highway speeds. Inside, drivers are treated to Bose Active Noise Cancellation, multi-color heads-up display, navigation, and an eight-inch color infotainment screen.
Power & Performance
The 6.2-liter V8, complete with direct injection, continuously variable valve timing, and Active Fuel Management, puts 420 horses to the pavement; torque is a healthy 460 lb-ft. The Yukon Graphite Performance Edition also gets Magnetic Ride Control, which uses sensors to “read” the road, altering the damping rate of the shocks accordingly.
Along with the upgraded powertrain, the Graphite Performance Edition adds a trailer brake controller, 170-amp alternator, and a higher grade air filter.

Pricing & Availability
The Graphite Editions are available in SLT trim only, but can be had on both the Yukon and Yukon XL in either two-wheel or four-wheel drive. There are three exterior colors: Onyx Black, White Frost Tricoat, and Dark Sky Metallic. Expect the Graphite Editions at dealers later this summer with pricing due closer to 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.
Photos & Source: GMC.

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2018 Mazda6 Signature Review

2018 Mazda6 Signature Review The Mazda6 Signature might be the sportiest midsize sedan on the market. If you like to drive, Mazda knows how to entertain your passion for taking the curves a bit faster than the average commuter. This sedan also looks the part on the outside. Mazda designers cranked up their styling juices and have given the car a good dose of sleek.
This vehicle is not all show either – it will also go!
What’s New For 2018
The Mazda 6 receives a variety of updates for 2018. The most significant is the revised interior, which is quieter with a new dashboard design and higher-quality cabin materials. An available 2.5-liter four-cylinder turbo – which we had on our Signature tester – joins the lineup. The base 2.5-liter engine now has cylinder deactivation technology to improve fuel economy.
Additional trim levels and new safety technologies round out the changes for 2018.
Features & Options
The 2018 Mazda6 Signature ($34,750) comes standard with LED headlights, push-button start, 60/40-split folding rear seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. An eight-inch entertainment touchscreen includes Bluetooth, one USB port, and a six-speaker sound system. Standard safety features include blind-spot monitoring, a rearview camera, and rear cross-traffic alert.
A six-speed automatic is standard, as are 19-inch wheels, keyless entry, automatic wipers, automatic high-beams, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, illuminated vanity mirrors, and a sunroof. Rear passengers get additional vents in the center console and a center armrest with two USB charging ports. The safety features of the i-Activsense package are standard with the Signature too.
The fully-loaded Signature trim gets higher-quality materials such as microfiber suede, wood, and upgraded leather, along with the addition of LED interior lighting and a frameless rearview mirror. Other additions consist of a digital gauge cluster and a surround-view camera system with front and rear parking sensors.
The i-Activsense package is also included, which features forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist.
Total MSRP including destination: $36,140.

Interior Highlights
The material quality is high and the improved styling inside sets this Mazda6 Signature trim apart. The Chestnut Nappa leather interior on our tester looked rich and upscale. The first thing we noticed was a sweeping dash crowned by a bright new seven-inch infotainment display screen. The Mazda Connect infotainment system is quick enough, but the control device is somewhat uncooperative and the mapping isn’t as good as some rivals.
The sport seats offer excellent support for spirited driving, and the leather gives the sedan a luxurious feel. The ventilated front seats and heads-up display made this sedan feel like a more expensive model. There’s impressive interior space up front, and there’s good leg and knee room in the rear, even for taller adults. The sporty styling does cut down on rear passenger headroom with the raked roofline, however.
The cabin is quiet on the road at highway speeds, and visibility is improved with the use of high-strength steel in the roof pillars, allowing them to be a bit narrower. The split rear seats fold forward for additional cargo room, and the trunk offers 14.8 cubic feet of space with a wide opening.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Mazda6 Signature is powered by a new 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. of torque. It comes paired to a six-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels.
EPA fuel mileage estimates are 23/31 city/highway and 26 combined mpg.
Driving Dynamics
True to Mazda vehicles being known for their good balance and handling, the Mazda6 maintains that standard, and even ups the game a few notches on the fun-to-drive meter. The new 2.5-liter turbo engine makes quite a difference when compared to the standard, naturally-aspired powerplant.
Overall, the 2.5-liter turbo is smooth and powerful, and it’s a joy to drive with the six-speed automatic and steering wheel paddle shifters. This engine likes to rev and the paddle shifters give you the ability to get the most from this engine. The Mazda6 came alive on the curvy roads we tested it on near Evergreen, Colorado. The steering felt solid and communicative, and the ride was firm and planted with the 19-inch wheels on the Signature trim.
If you are looking for a plush sedan ride, the Mazda6 is probably not for you. If you like to drive, it’s the best in this segment. With the new G-Vectoring Control, the Mazda6 now applies braking to separate front wheels in the corners, shifting weight forward and increasing grip so the turn-in is more secure. When it releases, weight shifts to the rear for improved balance.
Conclusion
The 2018 Mazda6 Signature ups the comfort and luxury level a few notches, and the new 2.5-liter turbo feels even better when you get behind the wheel. The sedan handles exceptionally well, the ride is firm and sporty, and the response from the steering and automatic transmission is what driving enthusiasts will enjoy on the commute.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Mazda6 Gallery

2018 Mazda6 Official Site.
Photos: Mazda North American Operations.

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