Automotive

2019 BMW 3 Series: Luxury Car, Sports Sedan Or Both?

2019 BMW 3 Series: Luxury Car, Sports Sedan Or Both? The complete redesign of the 2019 BMW 3 Series looks promising.
New engine technologies and suspension designs increase overall performance.
The 2019 3 Series faces stiff competition from Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, and Genesis.
The BMW 3 Series began its life in the United States in 1976 as a successor to the 2002.
As with all things in life, change is inevitable. It wasn’t too long ago that a certain Elon Musk had the idea of mass-producing an electric car. It was nothing short of ludicrous, but look how it turned out, for better or worse. The Tesla Model 3 is now the best-selling luxury car in the USA as of August.
The Model 3 also outsold the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class in the entry-level luxury segment.
BMW disputes this . . . in general.
“The BMW 3 Series has ranked as the world’s biggest-selling premium car, led the way for high-performance powertrain and chassis technology and earned a reputation as a pioneer of technological innovations in its segment,” reads a statement from the automaker.
Luxury Car or Sports Sedan?
Thus the reason why I’m shocked at what people think about the 2019 BMW 3 Series. The car made its debut at the 2018 Paris Motor Show. Since then, all we’ve been hearing from critics are expletive adjectives coupled with nuisance rants. I wonder what the fuss is all about.
The 2019 BMW 3 Series is bigger than the outgoing model. It represents the seventh generation of a beloved sports sedan – but that’s what the critics are pointing out. They say the new 3-Series is a proper luxury car now instead of a laser-focused sports sedan.
But is there something wrong with that?
By The Numbers
Sure, the new 3 Series is 0.5-inches taller, 2.9-inches longer, and 0.6-inches wider than the previous model. In fact, the front and rear track are wider by 43 and 21 millimeters respectively. The result is a more aggressive stance.
But despite the added bulk, the new 3 Series is 121 lbs. lighter than the outgoing model, thanks to the extensive use of aluminum in the engine sub-frame, front fenders, and hood. BMW claims overall rigidity is up 25 percent with as much as 50 percent improvements in certain areas of the body. It seems BMW hasn’t forgotten how to make a sharp-handling sedan, right?
BMW is so obsessed with improving the driving dynamics, even the center of gravity is 10 millimeters lower than the old model. In order for the car to slice the wind, BMW designers utilized every trick in the book to reduce the drag coefficient to 0.26 Cd.
So yeah, the 2019 BMW 3 Series is bigger, taller, and wider than the old car. But it also happens to be stiffer, lighter, and more slippery. Nobody complained when Honda and Toyota supersized the Civic and Corolla. Based on the above specs, the new BMW 3 Series is probably the return of the ultimate driving machine.
BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system includes an electronically-controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case, which links up with the Dynamic Stability Control system. From here, power output is adjusted – within a fraction of a second – according to the driving conditions. BMW says the technology reduces oversteer and understeer, while providing an increase in traction and stability. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
They say the new 3-Series is now a proper luxury car instead of being a laser-focused sports sedan. But is there something wrong with that?Click To TweetTurbocharged Power
Of course, what ultimate driving machine is complete without a stonking motor? The base 330i is motivated by a new 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque. This engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic, features a twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection, and variable camshaft timing.
The 2019 BMW 330i can sprint to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The 330i xDrive with all-wheel drive can perform the same feat in 5.3 seconds.
But if the idea of a four-cylinder engine is a tough pill to swallow, then consider the M340i instead. It comes with a turbocharged straight-six motor with 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. of torque. The sprint to 60 mph takes just 4.2-seconds, courtesy of the eight-speed auto and standard rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available; BMW’s M Sport rear differential is standard.
If you were pining for a manual in the 2019 BMW 3 Series, you’re out of luck. Only diesels with rear-wheel drive receive a manual gearbox.
Aluminum swivel bearings and control arms for the front axle, plus aluminum wheel mounts and new wheel bearings for the rear axle reduce unsprung mass. At the rear axle, more rigid control arms and axle sub-frames, along with thrust arms for the body mounting, ensure “very precise wheel location,” according to BMW. As a result, steering dynamics improve. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Begging To Be Driven
The 2019 BMW 3 Series is the antithesis of what critics were hoping for. With a classy interior and gorgeous exterior (with available adaptive LED headlights even), the new car has clearly veered more towards the luxury end of the spectrum. But by reducing weight and increasing the stiffness of the chassis, along with new suspension and steering tech, there’s no doubt the 2019 BMW 3 Series is begging to be driven. Hard. Presumably on twisty and/or mountainous roads.
The issue starts with the packaging. Sure, the new 3 Series is longer, taller, and wider, although it’s not as roomy as before. And I can’t wrap my head around it. There is 1.5-inches less headroom in the front while leg and shoulder room is virtually unchanged. However, there is now more cargo room in the new 3 Series, which grew from 13 to 17 cubic-feet.
I can live with that.
2019 BMW 3 Series. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
There’s no doubt the 2019 BMW 3 Series is begging to be driven. Hard. Presumably on twisty and/or mountainous roads.Click To TweetBut There’s A Problem . . .
Two, in fact: the Genesis G70 and Tesla Model 3. I have no idea how the Genesis G70 feels so adoringly good on the open road despite the sub-$35k base price. I won’t go as far as saying the Genesis G70 is the BMW 3 Series for a new generation, but it does feel like it.
And then the Tesla Model 3. The Model 3 is bigger in all aspects than the sixth-gen 3 Series, which BMW addressed by increasing the dimensions on this new, seventh-gen 3 Series. But the Tesla Model 3 starts at only $35,000 (before tax credits) in standard range trim, while the 2019 BMW 3 Series starts around $41,200.
Also, the Tesla is faster and has a more alluring design in my eyes.
But if BMW is in your blood, then expect the 330i in March. The M340i will follow shortly after, with a starting MSRP of $43,245.
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.
2019 BMW 3 Series Gallery

Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.

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2019 Chevy Silverado By The Numbers

2019 Chevy Silverado By The Numbers The 2019 Chevy Silverado debuted in Detroit, Michigan, 100 years after the automaker began producing trucks in January of 1918. Chevrolet expanded the range of engines and transmissions, and cut weight to increase overall performance. The 2019 Silverado was subjected to GM’s most rigorous engineering metrics in history. The Silverado team essentially doubled their validation targets and logged seven million miles of real-world testing.
Bed Time
Despite rumors of aluminum and carbon fiber, the 2019 Silverado retains its roll-formed, high-strength steel bed. Yield strength increases from 340 to 500 megapascals of pressure through the use of higher grades of steel; the tie-down hooks now handle 500 lbs. of force. At the moment, the 2019 Silverado offers best-in-class cargo volume, with even the short-box offering up 63 cubic feet of space.
The bed floor was widened by seven inches and the wheelbase extended by 3.9 inches to increase cargo capacity. For easier access to said cargo, an available power up/down tailgate can be operated with the key fob or via a button in the cab.
Light & Tight
The 2019 Chevy Silverado is 450 lbs. lighter when compared to the current generation Silverado with a V8. Weight reduction and strength increases were achieved through “mixed materials and advanced manufacturing processes,” according to Chevrolet. That strategy is demonstrated most noticeably in the truck’s body, frame, and suspension.
The actual body is 88 pounds lighter. The doors, hood, and tailgate are made from aluminum while the fenders, roof, and bed utilize high-strength steel. The underlying safety cage uses seven different grades of steel. Going further underneath, the fully boxed steel frame is also 88 lbs. lighter but offers a 10 percent increase in torsional rigidity. 80 percent of the frame consists of high-strength steel, varying from two to five millimeters in thickness, depending on location. Hydroforming, roll forming, conventional stamping, and tailor-rolled blanking are all performed during manufacturing, according to Chevrolet.
The front independent short/long arm suspension has lighter forged-aluminum upper control arms. Chevrolet notes this change provides better wheel alignment than the stamped components they replace. The live-axle rear suspension is also redesigned, including new carbon-composite, second-stage springs on LT models that cut about 12 lbs. (per side) over the steel springs they replace.

Power & Performance
Duramax fans are likely jumping for joy right now! The 2019 Chevy Silverado has an option for an all-new Duramax 3.0-liter inline-six. Revised versions of GM’s evergreen 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter engines with Dynamic Fuel Management are on offer. The system replaces Active Fuel Management and differs in the sense it can shut off any number of cylinders, in a variety of combinations, to boost performance and efficiency.
Both the Duramax and 6.2-liter are paired with a new Hydra-Matic 10-speed automatic transmission. Overall, the 2019 Chevy Silverado will offer six engine and transmission choices.
Functional Styling
The new Silverado borrows from its performance car stablemates, particularly the sixth-generation Camaro. The front grille, for example, includes functional air curtains that move air around the front wheel wells to reduce aerodynamic drag. The truck’s side profile is aerodynamically enhanced too. An integrated spoiler at the rear edge of the cab moves air onto the tailgate lip, reducing wind drag from the bed. Changes like these result in a seven percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency, according to Chevrolet.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Interior Treatments
The interior was strongly influenced by customer feedback, since truck buyers spend a lot of time in the cab. The focus was on developing a comfortable and functional interior, with easy-to-use controls. Right off the bat, the cab was stretched to increase interior space; crew cabs now have three additional inches of rear-seat legroom. Overall, the 2019 Chevy Silverado has 44.5 inches of front legroom and 43.8 inches of rear legroom.
The interior was then subjected to 100,000 seat-slide tests to ensure the surfaces remain supple and supportive. Two new 10-liter storage bins were added for the second-row seatbacks, and a larger, 24-liter storage tray was fitted under the rear seat. The Silverado was the first pickup to offer 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and various OnStar safety and security features. That all remains for 2019.
Production & In Person
The 2019 Chevy Silverado will be on display at the North American International Auto Show through January 28th at the Cobo Center, downtown Detroit. Production will begin at Fort Wayne, Indiana Assembly this fall. When it arrives, the 2019 Chevy Silverado will have eight different trim levels, including an off-road-oriented Trailboss.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
2019 Chevy Silverado Gallery

Photos & Source: Chevrolet.

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100 to Zero: Inside The Brembo Braking System of The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

100 to Zero: Inside The Brembo Braking System of The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 The 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500 will hit 100 mph in 10.6 seconds. Interestingly enough, that figure is a two-way street. Take the Shelby GT500 to 100 mph and apply the brakes. You’re back at zero again in 10.6 seconds. The 760-horsepower 5.2-liter supercharged V8 does the first part. The Brembo brakes do the other.

Pushing The Limits

Brembo brakes and performance cars are like Oreos and milk. It’s impossible to have one without the other. Brembo’s engineering and design teams often go to great lengths to match the braking system to the car in question. For example, Brembo developed a unique hybrid brake material for the 2019 Corvette ZR1 that withstands the higher temperatures caused by track driving. A year later, Brembo was at the drawing board with Nissan, devising a placement strategy for the cooling holes of the 2020 GT-R NISMO’s rotors.

“Automakers continue to push the limits of what is possible,” said Daniel Sandberg, President and Chief Executive Officer, Brembo North America. “Who could have imagined 10 years ago that the performance car segment would have cars with nearly 800 horsepower?”

Sandberg notes that as manufacturers (like Ford in this case with the Shelby Mustang) continue to push those performance boundaries, Brembo will do the same. “We will have to meet this challenge with advancements in metallurgy, production processes, disc technologies and – perhaps most importantly – friction material development,” he said.

2020 Mustang Shelby GT500. Photo: Ford Motor Company. Stopping The Red Rocket

Brembo has traveled down the road with the Mustang before. Fans may recall the 2000 SVT Mustang Cobra R, the fastest Mustang ever produced at that time. The 5.4-liter V8, developed by the Ford Special Vehicle Team (hence “SVT”), created 385 horsepower. The bright red rocket that was the Cobra R shot to 60 in 4.7 seconds and ran a quarter-mile in 13.2 seconds. Keeping it under control was Brembo’s responsibility.

The 2000 SVT Mustang Cobra R came with 13-inch Brembo vented rotors and four-piston aluminum calipers. At the time, a Motor Trend test determined the Cobra R went from 60 to zero in 109 feet or about 36 yards.

“The Brembo brand was built upon our close relationships with historic automakers such as Ford and iconic vehicles such as the Mustang,” Sandberg said. “After more than 20 years of supplying brakes on the Mustang, customers have come to know that when they buy a Mustang with Brembo brakes, they are getting an exceptional level of performance.”

2000 SVT Mustang Cobra R. Photo: Ford Performance. Managing Thermal Mechanical Loads

The 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500 comes with five different drive modes that change up the car’s personality. Among those drive modes are two that really make the GT500 sing: Track and Drag. In Track mode, the Tremec seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (it’s a wet clutch) changes its behavior to increase lateral grip through corners. Conversely, in Drag mode, the transmission employs “over-torque” shifts for better straight-line power delivery.

“In many ways, this is like having two transmissions in one,” explained Pat Morgan, Ford Performance Powertrain Manager. “On one hand, it enables performance at the outer reaches of straight-line quickness with minimal torque interruption, yet provides an incredible amount of finesse and control in track environments for maximum stability and predictability at the limits of lateral acceleration.”

Just as the Tremec transmission provides rapid (and massive!) power transfer from the 5.2-liter supercharged V8, it’s the Brembo brakes that provide balance and control. That’s not always easy to accomplish.

“When you’re developing brakes for a sports coupe with 760 horsepower, it’s an enormous technical challenge,” Sandberg said. “It’s a challenge to design a brake caliper that can handle the loads and temperatures that the brake system will experience.”

Mustang Shelby GT500: Calipers & Rotors

The front calipers are an aluminum monobloc design with six pistons. It’s one of the largest and highest-functioning units currently in Brembo’s portfolio. It needed to be that way, however. When attached to the Mustang Shelby GT500, the operating pressures can climb exponentially and cause a condition called caliper deflection, which sometimes feels like a “spongy” pedal.

“To combat this, we use the monoblock, single-piece casting concept, which is inherently stiffer than multi-piece designs,” Sandberg explained. “During the GT500 design phase, Ford was particularly focused on the caliper stiffness, so a monoblock was the only solution considered.”

The staggered piston diameters (34 mm, 38 mm, and 40 mm) assure consistent braking pressure across the pad surface for excellent stopping power. The front calipers house brake pads measuring 131.2 square centimetres. Those calipers and pads bite down onto 420 mm x 40 mm cast iron rotors.

“The caliper has a very large brake pad to handle the high temperatures, and the six-piston staggered-diameter layout ensures evenly distributed clamping pressure,” Sandberg said. “It’s important to be sure the pad material is doing equal work under braking, and that it won’t wear unevenly.”

Photo: Ford Motor Company. Good Vibrations

Cars like the 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500 are the ones we often dream about driving. In my youth, I had posters on my wall at one point of nearly every popular performance car, the Mustang included. Even today, my office is decorated with auto show badges, vintage tin signs, and a healthy assortment of Hot Wheels.

Sometimes, for car enthusiasts, it’s all about these “feels,” as the younger kids say these days. Even when you’re not driving, you wish you were, so your personal space becomes an embodiment of this. Once behind the wheel, those positive vibes flow by way of a car that looks good, sounds good, and feels good.

“Every aspect of the Shelby GT500 driving experience changes with the mode – be that the throttle responsiveness and snap of the shifts you feel in the seat of your pants, or the ‘pop and burble’ of the exhaust in performance modes,” Morgan said. “It’s a full multisensory visceral experience.”

“Customers love the visceral feeling of the GT500’s acceleration, but if the brakes are not confidence-inspiring, it can ruin the whole driving experience,” Sandberg added. “By offering a Brembo system, Ford has ensured that the customer is equally awed by the stopping power of the vehicle.”

Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and a member of the Midwest Automotive Media Association and the Society of Automotive Historians. He serves on the board of directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, is a past president of Detroit Working Writers, and a loyal Detroit Lions fan.

Photos & Source: Brembo SpA, Ford Motor Company.
Original article: 100 to Zero: Inside The Brembo Braking System of The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

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2018 Ford Mustang GT Review: One Quick Pony!

2018 Ford Mustang GT Review: One Quick Pony! The 2018 Ford Mustang GT gets a significant refresh. The upgrades, like a re-tuned suspension, plus newly available adaptive suspension dampers, improve ride quality. And there’s more power for the coupe’s 5.0-liter V8, which will make it more enticing for performance enthusiasts.
This weekend, we drove the 2018 Ford Mustang GT Premium.
What’s New For 2018
The 2018 Ford Mustang gets revised front and rear styling and newly available adaptive suspension dampers.
Features & Options
The 2018 Ford Mustang GT Premium ($39,095) is the model for performance enthusiasts! It comes standard with the 5.0-liter V8, a six-speed manual gearbox, leather upholstery, power front seats, and a nine-speaker audio system. Additional features include dual-zone automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an eight-inch touchscreen with the Sync 3 infotainment system.
The Performance package ($3,995) includes larger brakes, 19-inch wheels and summer tires, a shorter differential ratio, bigger radiator, stiffer front springs, and a larger rear stabilizer bar. This package also allows the new-for-2018, MagneRide adaptive suspension dampers ($1,695).
Other optional but notable features include the digital gauge clusters, navigation system, Recaro front sport seats, a 12-speaker sound system, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
Total MSRP including destination: $53,160. By comparison, starting MSRP for the 2018 Ford Mustang is $25,680.
2018 Ford Mustang GT in Ruby Red with the Black Accent Package.
The center stack is attractive and there are chrome accents throughout the cabin. Click To TweetInterior Highlights
The Recaro bucket seats are a must with the 5.0-liter V8, as they keep you firmly planted in this high-performance coupe. They are comfortable around town and were extra-supportive in the tight mountain curves we powered through over the weekend. And there’s a wide range of adjustments, so even tall drivers have enough room.
The center stack is attractive and there are chrome accents throughout the cabin. The GT Premium model features sweet toggle switches with a background looking like machined aluminum. The radio and climate controls are even easy to operate. There are a fair amount of hard plastics, however, which takes away from the interior quality.
The rear seating is only useful for kids and adults who need to ride for a short trip. The Mustang is a 2+2, so rear legroom is seriously limited. At just 29 inches, it’s less than the Camaro. But the two slim seats are supportive, as occupants sink in. Climbing in and out is a challenge without hitting your head on the roofline, although it’s easier than the Camaro which has even less headroom.
The Mustang’s trunk offers up a decent 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, but the optional Shaker stereo ($895) includes a trunk-mounted subwoofer that limits the usable space.
2018 Ford Mustang GT interior layout.
When you start up the 2018 Ford Mustang GT, you hear the V8 come to life! The performance exhaust has an unmistakable throaty rumble that will wake the neighbors. Click To TweetEngine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2018 Ford Mustang GT comes powered by a sweet 5.0-liter V8, producing 460 horsepower and 420 lb-ft. of torque. The power plant was revised for 2018 with the implementation of direct and port injection. The GT’s six-speed manual gearbox gets revised gearing this year too.
EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 15/25 city/highway and 18 combined mpg. That is, if you can keep your foot out of the gas pedal.
Driving Dynamics
When you start up the 2018 Ford Mustang GT, you hear the V8 come to life! The performance exhaust has an unmistakable throaty rumble that will wake the neighbors. Ford says the GT can accelerate to 60 in less than four seconds, a stunning performance claim we can attest to. The active exhaust system made us giddy as we turned up the volume from almost silent, to the deep bass of a V8 rumble, to a menacing bellow.
If you want to do flawless burnouts (at the track of course), Ford offers an electronic line lock as standard equipment.
Our 2018 Ford Mustang GT had both the Performance Package and MagneRide Suspension, features that improve agility and driving dynamics. By switching to Sport mode, the dampers stiffen to produce handling that’s sharp and steady even on rough roads. When the dampers are set to their softest mode, and the exhaust system to its quietest tuning, the Mustang feels like a mild-mannered sedan.
But who would want to do that?
The performance exhaust has an unmistakable throaty rumble that will wake the neighbors.Click To TweetConclusion
For sportiness and driving fun, the 2018 Ford Mustang GT Premium with the 5.0-liter V8 and six-speed manual is a must for performance enthusiasts. However, the Mustang offers solid performance for the dollar in any trim level.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Ford Mustang GT Gallery

2018 Ford Mustang Official Site.
Photos: Ford Motor Company.

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Lotus Evora GT410 Sport Emerges From Hethel

Lotus Evora GT410 Sport Emerges From Hethel So speaketh Lotus: “Relentless in its development of world-class sports cars, Lotus has unveiled the new Evora GT410 Sport to complete the revised line-up of Hethel’s fastest model.” And all I can say is I really hope this completes the “revised line-up,” because over the paste while I have written articles on nine “new” Lotus models. I love these cars, I really do, but this whole “another month, another sort of new Lotus” thing is starting to get tiring.
Fitting In
In some ways, the Evora GT410 Sport is like the Evora GT430, only with less power, a bit more comfort, and a lot of aero and carbon fiber tweaks. The Evora GT410 Sport is available in both 2 seat and 2+2 configurations, and I’m sure both are fine. But if you buy the 2+2, you better have good reasons. The Evora GT410 Sport comes with either a manual or an automatic transmission, but don’t fret about that auto-box – everyone says it’s quite good. Overall, the new Evora GT410 Sport will be the replacement for the Evora Sport 410.
The revised front panel features two enlarged carbon fiber ducts and integrated air blades to move air around the front wheels. This reduces turbulence and decreases drag. Photo: Group Lotus plc.
Power & Performance
Body-wise the GT410 Sport has new, specifically-designed composite front and rear body panels, sans some of the high downforce elements found on other Evoras. Lotus says it has a far subtler and sleeker silhouette. Even though some aero bits are missing, the GT410 Sport still generates 50 percent more downforce than the Evora Sport 410 for a total of 96kg of downforce.
The Evora GT410 Sport is motorized by a specially-tuned, higher-output version of Lotus’ supercharged, 3.5-liter 6-cylinder engine, complete with a water-to-air charge cooler. It goes without mentioning, but I’ll mention it anyway: this 3.5-liter 6-cylinder plant comes from Toyota, so do not worry about engine reliability, that is a thing of the past. Said mill cranks out 410 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 310 lb-ft. of torque from 3,500 rpm. This engine, combined with the company’s fixation for low weight, launches the GT410 Sport to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds with the automatic box. The manual version puts in a time of four seconds. See, that auto ain’t such a bad idea, is it?
Light & Tight
Speaking of the Hethel-based company’s undying love of making things as light as possible, developing the Evora GT410 Sport gave Lotus opportunities to optimize mass and weight. The bottom line turns up at an unladen weight of 2,860 lbs. If you decide to go with the optional titanium exhaust and the Lotus-tuned Öhlins TTX aluminum two-way adjustable dampers, you can shave off another 216 lbs. compared to the plain Jane Evora 400.
Photo: Group Lotus plc.
Careful Considerations
Would I buy the new Evora GT410 Sport? Of course I would! I just wish Lotus would stop messing around with having umpteen models of only slight difference from one step to the next. It’s sort of reminiscent of JDM car versions whose main differentiation from one trim level to the next are things like sway bar bushings. Lotus, you guys have made a name for yourself by making cars simple and light. Please apply that philosophy to your model lineup.
The Lotus Evora GT410 Sport can be ordered now in European and Asia Pacific markets. Availability for China and the United States is expected this summer.
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.
Lotus Evora GT410 Sport Gallery

Photos & Source: Group Lotus plc.

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2019 Ford Edge ST: The SUV Time Machine

2019 Ford Edge ST: The SUV Time Machine Throughout the year at Sioux Falls Ford, we received training on new vehicles before Ford released them. A specialist from Dearborn would arrive in the morning, with said vehicle, and put us sales guys through a day-long session of training and test driving. We learned everything about the forthcoming vehicle so we were prepared to answer any questions future customers might have.
Those were the good old days.
Showroom Shine
Looking back, a few vehicles from those training sessions really stood out: The 2010 Raptor with its suspension, the 2011 F-150 with its EcoBoost engines, and the 2010 Edge Sport with its 22-inch wheels. After training on the Edge that day, we held a public test drive event in the evening. Upper management invited many of our customers in for a chance to see and drive the Edge Sport. We took a few orders that night and enjoyed showing our customers this slick, new vehicle we received training on earlier in the day.
The next morning, I was on first shift, meaning I was usually at my desk by 7:45 before we opened at 8:00. As I was unpacking my things for the day, I glanced across the showroom and caught the morning sun bouncing off the Sport Blue Metallic paint and 22-inch chrome wheels. Since it was a demo vehicle for training, that particular Edge Sport was due to leave us, but for the time being, it was the perfect compliment to the Shelby Mustang sitting only a few feet away.
I get similar vibes from the 2019 Edge ST, Ford’s first SUV to be tuned by Ford Performance.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Power & Performance
The Edge ST features a specially-tuned 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine, pumping out 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic Ford notes as “quick-shifting.” Toggle over to Sport Mode and the Edge ST is suddenly more aggressive, holding gears up to the redline and resonating the exhaust notes a little further. All-wheel drive, a sport-tuned suspension, and an available performance braking package give the Edge ST a little extra “edge” on the road.
Exterior Styling
Just like the 2010 Edge Sport, the 2019 Edge ST catches the eye with its mesh grille, side skirts, redesigned hood, and dual exhaust ports. To enhance curb appeal, 21-inch wheels are available, while LED headlamps are standard.
Interior Design
Edge ST drivers will enjoy seats that offer additional bolstering, especially on longer trips. The center console is redesigned and the rotary gearshift dial reduces clutter and frees up space. The wireless charging pad, built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, and Sync 3 are nice upgrades for those who like having the latest tech. Music lovers will enjoy the available 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Safety & Security
The Edge ST features an array of advanced safety systems, two of which really stand out. Post Collision Braking reduces the likelihood of secondary impacts by applying moderate brake pressure when an initial collision is detected. Evasive Steering Assist, designed to operate at city and highway speeds, uses radar and a camera to detect slower-moving and stationary vehicles. Once detected, steering support is provided to help maneuver around a vehicle if a collision is imminent.
Manufacturing & Availability
The 2019 Ford Edge ST will be built at the Oakville Assembly Plant in Oakville, Ontario, Canada. Expect to see the Edge ST at Ford dealerships this summer.
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: Ford Motor Company.

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Big Reveals Scheduled For NAIAS In Detroit

Big Reveals Scheduled For NAIAS In Detroit The North American International Auto Show, held in Detroit, Michigan, is the most significant auto show in the world. Last year at the Cobo Center, there were 50 OEMs present, 42 press conferences, and over 70 vehicle introductions. 5,000 journalists and other media professionals packed the halls for Press Preview, with nearly 13,000 attending the Charity Preview event. The economic impact of NAIAS on metro Detroit, according to Loomis Sayles & Company, is an estimated $450 million.
Big Reveals
Casual car enthusiasts and career automotive professionals can appreciate the sea of iron that decorates the Cobo Center every January. Press Preview (January 15th and 16th) is where a lot of the action happens with regard to vehicle reveals. Here is a partial list of who is going to be in the house and what they will be revealing. All times are Eastern.
Acura
The third-generation Acura RDX Prototype will make its world debut on January 15th at 11:05 a.m. The reveal will showcase a new direction for Acura; this RDX Prototype is the first in a new generation of products, according to the automaker. The RDX will ride on an Acura-exclusive platform centered on two design mantras, Precision Concept and Precision Cockpit. The first is about sleek styling and strong body lines; the latter is concerned with making the interior functional and clean.
Audi
The 2019 Audi A7 will see its global debut in Detroit at NAIAS. The automaker has rolled out a healthy number of products for the U.S. market in recent times. The new A7 is said to join its brethren with refined driving dynamics and an emphasis on functionality, design, and technology.
Photo: Audi of America.

BMW
The X2 and i8 Coupe will make their world debuts on Monday, January 15th at 9:35 a.m. The X2 is said to have “fast-moving body language, low-slung proportions, and a robust construction.” A 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic motivate the X2, expected to arrive in dealerships this spring. BMW will also have an array of electrified vehicles on display.
Hyundai
Hyundai is unveiling the 2019 Veloster and aside from that, no other details have been released. Hyundai’s press conference is set for Monday, January 15th at 12:05 p.m.
Infiniti
The Q Inspiration Concept will take center stage on Monday, January 15th at 12:35 p.m. Karim Habib, Infiniti’s Executive Design Director, says they pushed the traditional sedan architecture to the next level.
Photo: Q Inspiration Concept.

Jeep

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee will see its world debut on Tuesday, January 16th. Details are slim right now, but Jeep says the new Cherokee will have a more premium design and more fuel-efficient powertrains. Jeep starts their press event at 8 a.m. on the 16th, with breakfast for credentialed media.

Kia
Ahead its debut, Kia released renderings of the all-new 2019 Forte sedan. Based on the images, the third-generation Forte looks athletic and sleek. And do we see design elements borrowed from the Stinger? Kia’s press conference is scheduled for Monday, January 15th at 11.35 a.m.
Photo: Kia Motors America.
Toyota
Toyota will premiere the all-new 2019 Avalon on Monday, January 15th at 1:05 p.m. No additional details were given and the teaser photo only showed a glimpse of the headlights.

Volkswagen
There are even fewer details here, just that VW will debut the 2019 Jetta. They did release these cool sketches, however. VW’s press conference is set for Monday, January 15th at 10:05 a.m.

Big Events
In addition to the vehicle reveals, NAIAS has plenty of opportunities for further education, networking, and just plain fun. Here are some of the other happenings.
Charity Preview – January 19th
A night of fine dining, good causes, and enjoyment, Charity Preview is one of the most exclusive events in the United States. Since 1976, Charity Preview has raised more than $111 million for children’s charities in southeastern Michigan, $41 million of which was raised in the last 10 years. Tickets are $400 per person, $390 of which is tax deductible.
Industry Preview / AutoMobili-D (January 17th and 18th)
Industry Preview places nearly 40,000 automotive professionals and analysts from over 2,200 companies under one roof. It’s a networking and professional development opportunity with the individuals behind many of today’s most innovative technologies and products. Complementing Industry Preview is AutoMobili-D, a gathering of the latest mobility-focused platforms from the world’s automakers, suppliers, and startups. AutoMobili-D examines the connected car, autonomous driving, and how smart cites play a role in our future.
Public Show
NAIAS runs January 20th through the 28th at the Cobo Center, One Washington Boulevard, downtown Detroit. Ticket information for the public show and corresponding events can be found here; a list of daily activities can be found here; for anything else, the show’s official site is pretty easy to navigate. This year at NAIAS, a photo contest is being held with the top prize being Bose SoundSport wireless headphones. If you take any cool photos, share them with us on our Twitter page.
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 & Sources: North American International Auto Show, Acura, Audi of America, BMW of North America, LLC, FCA US LLC, Hyundai Motor America, Infiniti Motor Company Ltd, Kia Motors America, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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Amazon, Nissan Tech Lets Owners Talk To Their Vehicles

Amazon, Nissan Tech Lets Owners Talk To Their Vehicles

The worst feeling in the world is forgetting where you put your keys. You dump out your bag, slap all your pockets, and retrace your steps over and over again. Well, Nissan understands and later this month, some Nissan owners will be able to start their vehicle simply by speaking. Amazon Alexa, powered by NissanConnect Services, adds the new skill to a growing list of over 25,000.
This is the ideal time to utter the phrase, “the future is here.”
Voice Activation
Nissan owners will be able to find the new skill, called “NissanConnect Services,” under the connected car category in the Amazon Skills Store. The new skill is free to use and provides Nissan owners a way to vocally communicate with their vehicle, from locking and unlocking the doors, to honking the horn, flashing the lights, and starting the vehicle. A 4-digit pin will be required to send certain commands, like remote starting.
“Alexa, start my GT-R.” Photo: Nissan North America.
Ownership Experience
This approach comes from Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility initiative, which is meant to enhance the relationship between driver and vehicle. For example, owners can even name their Nissan.
“Intelligent integration means helping our customers even when they are not behind the wheel,” explained Dan Teeter, Director, Vehicle Connected Services, Nissan North America, Inc. “We are about bringing unexpected innovations to customers, and are excited to offer this technology to both existing and new Nissan owners.”
The services will be available on vehicles equipped with NissanConnect Services, an on-board telematics system. Amazon’s Alexa integration will require owners to have an active subscription to NissanConnect Services and a Nissan Owner Portal account, although the NissanConnect Services app does not need to be running to use the service. Once linked to a Nissan Owners Portal account with a compatible Nissan vehicle, owners can then utilize the voice commands.
We have included a chart below showing which Nissan vehicles are compatible.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Nissan Altima
2016, 2017, 2017.5
Nissan Armada
2018
Nissan GT-R
2017
Nissan Maxima
2016, 2017
Nissan Murano
2016, 2017.5
Nissan Pathfinder
2017, 2018
Nissan Rogue
2016, 2017
Nissan Rogue Sport
2017
Nissan Sentra
2016, 2017
Nissan TITAN
2017
Nissan TITAN XD
2016, 2017
Photos & Source: Nissan North America.

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2018 Acura ILX Arrives, Special Edition Available

2018 Acura ILX Arrives, Special Edition Available

We recently drove the 2018 Acura TLX A-Spec and enjoyed our time behind the wheel. We thought it was comfortable enough for city commuting but snappy enough for the open road. Recently, the 2018 Acura ILX arrived at the dealership and with it, a new Special Edition designation with A-Spec appointments. Acura says the ILX is meant to capture new luxury buyers and serve as a “gateway” to brand’s entire lineup.
Features Galore
Standard equipment on all ILX models includes Acura’s JewelEye LED headlights, an 8-way power driver’s seat, multi-view rearview camera, auto on/off headlights, one-touch power moonroof, a 5-inch Multi-View Display, Bluetooth capability, and push-button start. AcuraWatch, a suite of active safety technologies, is available on all ILX models, but standard when the Tech Plus package is selected.
The ILX Premium trim treats drivers to HD and Aha Radio, an 8-inch upper display, a 7-inch On-Demand Multi-Use Display, and HomeLink among other features.
Photo: Honda North America.
Premium Feel
The ILX A-Spec trims, Premium and Tech Plus, have a decklid spoiler, front fog lights, 18-inch 10-spoke machined alloy wheels, and exterior A-Spec badging in three locations: left and right front fenders and trunk lid. Acura is going for a lot of curb appeal here with this new look.
The interior is decorated with a Premium Black theme that includes perforated Lux Suede seat inserts. Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the instrument panel’s red background, contrasted with the gray interior stitching and aluminum pedals.
Power & Performance
All 2018 Acura ILX models are propelled by a 2.4-liter direct-injected DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder, creating 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft. of torque. A Sequential SportShift 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission with paddle shifters helps disperse the power. Acura says the transmission is both crisp and responsive with “performance and exceptional efficiency at your fingertips.”
Photo: Honda North America.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Acura ILX is available now with a starting MSRP of $28,100. The new Special Edition, by contrast, begins at $28,900. A handy chart showing the trim levels and corresponding prices is below.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Trim
MSRP
EPA MPG Rating (city/highway/combined)
ILX
$28,100
25/35/29
ILX Special Edition
$28,900
25/35/29
ILX AcuraWatch Plus
$29,400
25/35/29
ILX Premium
$30,100
25/35/29
ILX Premium A-Spec
$32,100
25/35/29
ILX Tech Plus
$33,100
25/35/29
ILX Tech Plus A-Spec
$35,100
25/35/29
2018 Acura ILX Gallery

Photos & Source: Honda North America.

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