Automotive

In Search Of Rosie: The Porsche 718 Cayman

England is not like California. In England rain is a tradition. We look to the skies and wonder what that bright orb is above our heads. Eventually we recall dim memories of something called the sun.

A couple of weeks ago, a little sun entered my life in the form of the latest version of the legendary Porsche Cayman, now designated with the number 718 in memory of a long-ago racing car. Unfortunately, the weather failed to play ball and was typically appalling.

I therefore am obliged to apologize for the dirty state of the car in some of my images.

We went searching for the origins of the famous book Cider with Rosie by the writer and poet Laurie Lee, and naturally it rained. The combination of road dirt and water soon reduced the metallic Graphite Blue paint to a dull gray. What it could not do was dampen our spirits. This car is very, very special.

What’s New

Porsche sports cars do not change, they evolve. We used to say the Cayman of old was the best driver’s car around yet the German brand seem capable of making the best even better. The version tested here is the basic 718. Change in the modern world is inevitable and downsizing is all the rage at the moment. Thus, in an effort to boost performance but reduce pollutants, the old flat-six engine has gone, replaced by the same new flat four-cylinder engines with turbocharging as is featured in the sibling 718 Boxster.

As a result, both coup and roadster have an identical engine output for the first time. The entry-level version (in the British market) starts with 296 horsepower from two liters of displacement. The faster S model delivers 346 horsepower with a displacement of 2.5 liters.

There are many other tweaks, including the styling, infotainment, and some suspension parts lifted from the GT4, but otherwise the 718 Cayman is the same as before, only different. The changes are subtle; the domed front wings, the neat Bi-Xenon light clusters, and the under-spoilers all add up to a convincing whole.

As ever with Porsche, the options that make the car this special cost extra. The basic car in the UK costs around £40,000 ($49,304) but with standard options, the tested vehicle retails at a mighty £53,605 ($66,074) although with your lighter taxation in the USA, American buyers may pay less.

Porsche 718 Cayman. Photo: DriveWrite Automotive.

Features & Options

The options on this car added approximately £14,000 ($17,256) to the base price. These are things you actually want so buyers might as well just accept this is the Porsche way, clench their buttocks and bank balances and ante up.

20-inch wheels painted gloss black: Check. Sports Chrono Package: Check. Navigation, GT steering wheel, Torque Vectoring: Check. Check. Check. The list goes on.

In fact, surprisingly, the only thing you don’t want is the Sports Exhaust System which will set you back about a grand and a half. Porsche’s of old had a sound of their own and anything that amplified that glorious auto symphony was welcome. Not any more.

Despite their best efforts, the 718 Cayman ticks over with a sort of flatulent bellow worthy of a low drinking den at closing time. It gets marginally better under performance but, let’s face it, a turbo-four is never going to reach those aural heights beloved of sports car drivers. Save your money and savor the quiet hum of German engineering at its best instead.

Interior Features

Our test car luxuriated in the presence of Sports Seats Plus (at extra cost, natch) that are part leather and part Sport-Tex cloth. Play around with the electrically adjustable seat and there it is – the perfect driving position. It is low and cossetting as it should be. The wheel is a delight to fondle and the pedals sit just right for some old-school heel and toe action if that’s your thing.

Although the PDK automatic gearboxes with flappy paddles are great (and make the car fractionally faster) it seems to me the six-speed manual gearbox is the way to go on this motor. It is crisp and notchy and even a novice driver should have no problem with finding the right ratio at the right time. Sublime.

Surround visibility isn’t great but the addition of reversing sensors eliminates potential parking pain. All the Bluetooth and infotainment options you need for great sounding tunes and the like is to hand on the 4.6-inch color screen; the navigation system is simple and effective.

If a long weekend away at a quiet romantic venue appeals, then there is no need to skimp on luggage. The space aft of the engine will take a decent sized overnight bag and the deep front well will swallow a carry-on suitcase, making the 718 a versatile companion. This is the only occasion when three won’t be a crowd.

The Oily Bits

Proper He-Man engines are in decline. Get over it. Move on and embrace our turbo-charged future. Porsche says on the combined overall cycle, this car should return 38 miles to the gallon. The trouble is, this sporting beauty is so damnably drivable that the truth is probably way below that, especially as 62 mph comes up in around five seconds. A parsimonious parson might achieve that lofty fuel figure but you won’t.

The two liter engine has an aluminum block and pistons, four valves per cylinder, and VarioCam Plus variable valve timing and lift, if these things matter to you, driving the rear wheels.

Stopping power is courtesy of 4-piston aluminum monobloc fixed calipers front and rear, with internally vented and cross-drilled discs. As I was obliged to prove at one point on the wet roads of Somerset, these well-modulated stoppers really work. I am less keen on the electrically controlled parking brake which is a touch inaccessible and takes a bit of getting used to.

Porsche 718 Cayman. Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.

On The Road

Finally we reach the important part of the proceedings. We traveled to the village of Slad which is where the author Laurie Lee called home. The Slad Valley in which the village nestles forms the backdrop to Cider with Rosie. The winter weather did the scenery no favors, stripping bare the earth and trees, but it is plain to see that summer would soon transform it back into a bosky haven of rolling green, so fondly remembered by the writer.

We dined sumptuously in the ancient Woolpack Inn, a second home to the author, but it was the drive to and from that was the highlight of the day. In terms of their driving dynamics, the new 718 Cayman models follow in the tracks of the classic 718 cars, say Porsche. Thanks to their outstanding agility, the historic mid-engine sports cars won numerous races in the 1950s and 1960s, such as the Targa Florio and Le Mans.

Lateral rigidity and wheel tracking have been improved in the completely re-tuned chassis of the Porsche 718 Cayman. Springs and stabilizers have been designed to be firmer and the tuning of the shock absorbers has been revised.

The steering, which has been configured to be 10% more direct, enhances agility and, importantly, driving fun. The rear wheels, which are one-half of an inch wider than before, in combination with the redeveloped tires, result in an increased lateral force potential and hence in greater cornering stability.

Know what? It works well.

Second Thoughts

Wait! Belay that: it works brilliantly. The 718 Cayman is as wonderfully set up as ever it was. If you like cars simply for the pleasures of driving, it is as close to perfection as you can get. Inevitably, there’s a touch of turbo lag below 2000 rpm, but keep the revs higher and the torque feeds in smoothly and predictably. There’s plenty of mid-range punch and the engine is more than prepared to rev its socks off as required.

So many cars, so little time. Is this the best car I have EVER driven? I can’t say that for sure but what I can say is the Porsche 718 Cayman is one of the finest sports cars ever made. Even at the price quoted, it remains a tremendous value.

If you can, you should. I would.

Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite

Porsche 718 Cayman Gallery

Photos: DriveWrite Automotive, Porsche Cars North America, Inc.

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Debate: Should You Use OEM Or Aftermarket Parts?

In today’s automotive world, consumers have more options than ever when it comes to car care and parts for performance and optimization. While parts from Original Equipment Manufacturers remain available for purists, aftermarket auto parts have seen a significant rise in popularity over the last several years, particularly with the mass availability from online retailers.

So how do you know which parts are right for you and your car?

By Definition

Let’s start by defining each of these terms. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are components from the same parts manufacturer who supplied the factory. Up until recently, these were only available at authorized dealerships. However, some of these brands are now available at other retail sources.

Aftermarket parts typically refer to components manufactured by competing companies. Some may be well-known brands, and others may not. These parts have long been available from traditional brick-and-mortar auto parts stores, but are now available from many online businesses.

Benefits of OEM Parts

An EXACT replacement. You are guaranteed the OEM part will be the exact same quality as the part you’re replacing, and will fit perfectly. They are also covered by the vehicle manufacturer. Most car manufacturers have a very good warranty on their replacement parts. That warranty is usually honored by any authorized dealership in the country, and if the dealer installed the part, the warranty usually includes labor.

OEM Considerations

Pricing. When purchased at a dealer, the OEM part is usually more expensive. There is also availability to consider. If your vehicle is a less-popular brand, authorized dealers may be more widely scattered. Dealers don’t always stock the part you need, and there may be a delay if it needs to be ordered.

Benefits of Aftermarket Parts

Choice. The aftermarket has responded to customer demand by providing a much broader choice than OEM. There are well-known aftermarket brands, including “OE equivalent,” as well as mass-market and lesser known brands.

Another benefit is pricing. In general, the aftermarket competes on price. Similar to what’s described above for choices and options, there will be different price levels. Those who desire the least expensive choice can usually find that in the aftermarket.

Bosch Premium Oil Filter. Photo: Bosch Auto Parts.

Aftermarket Considerations

Warranty. Depending on how long you plan to keep your car, the warranty period may be more important. If comparing two aftermarket parts, be sure to compare the warranty periods. Most well-known aftermarket suppliers provide a warranty close to, or even surpassing, the OEM warranty.

Quality is another important thing to consider. Years ago, it was presumed the quality of aftermarket parts was inferior to OEM parts.

That has changed as the aftermarket has improved to meet consumer demand. In fact, in some cases, large aftermarket businesses have manufactured replacement parts which improve upon known OEM weaknesses.

Bottom Line

If your vehicle is under warranty, or if the aftermarket does not offer the part you need, you have no choice but to obtain an OEM part from an authorized dealership. At the other extreme: if you own an old car (or a brand that has gone out of business), and there is no OEM choice, the aftermarket IS your only source for parts.

We recognize there are those consumers for whom only the OEM part will suffice. However, the aftermarket has improved its offerings across the board. There are OE equivalent brand names which have branched out to offer high-quality parts for all brands, not just the ones they originally supplied. At the same time, long-time aftermarket suppliers have worked to bring their quality up to, or exceeding, the OEM standard.

As the customer, there are important things to consider when choosing between OEM and aftermarket parts.

Richard Reina is a Product Trainer at CARiD.com and lifelong automotive enthusiast.

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Best Car Sharing Services Compared: A Guide To Short-Term Car Rentals

Best Car Sharing Services Compared: A Guide To Short-Term Car Rentals Americans today are looking for the most cost-effective ways to move about. As the average price for a new vehicle continues to increase, car sharing services have become a viable option.
You can think of car sharing as a short-term rental service, enabling you to drive a specific vehicle when and how you need it. And while car sharing has a lot of upsides, there are particular drawbacks you need to consider as well.
This guide will help you determine which car sharing service is right for you.
What Are The Advantages of Car Sharing?
Expenses: Car sharing helps you save on gasoline, parking fees, maintenance costs, taxes, vehicle registration, insurance, and various other fixed monthly costs. Those expenses are inclusive in the per-minute or per-hour cost of renting the vehicle.
Occasional Use: Car sharing is a practical alternative for those on a budget who don’t necessarily need a full-time vehicle.
Selection: Easily able to choose what you need for specific trips. Need a small car for a quick run to the shopping mall or grocery store? Do you need a larger truck for moving, or an SUV for a family vacation? Many car sharing services and the vehicles they offer are accessible via an app on your smartphone.
Flexible: Car sharing services are an easy and affordable way to get behind the wheel without buying or leasing the vehicle, or beholding yourself to a preset public transportation schedule.
Green: If you are concerned about carbon emissions and pollution, then consider a car sharing service. You can choose a hybrid or – in some cases – a fully-electric vehicle for your trip.
Easy: Car sharing is nothing more than choosing the vehicle you want, and waiting for it to arrive at your home. When you’re done, return the car and that’s basically it.
Passive Income: Car sharing allows you to earn money from your privately-owned vehicle(s). New cars are cheap to run but expensive to buy. Car sharing services will give you the ability to maximize the use of a particular vehicle. Going on a long business trip abroad? Instead of parking your vehicle at the airport lot, car sharing gives you the opportunity to earn money while you’re away.
What Are The Disadvantages of Car Sharing?
Costly: Car sharing is costly if you need to drive every day. This also holds true if you cover a lot of miles on your typical work day commute. If this is the case, leasing or buying your own vehicle is more economical in the long run.
Range: Car sharing services may sound convenient, but not if you live far away from parking garages or drop-off points.
What Are The Types of Car Sharing Services?
Traditional car sharing where a company owns the cars; and
Peer-to-peer car sharing, where you rent the vehicle from private car owners or lenders.
This comprehensive guide will take you through the basics of car sharing and help you pick a service that’s right for you.
Traditional Car Sharing Services
Zipcar
Zipcar was established in 2000 and is one of the most popular car sharing services in the United States. They are a traditional service as a subsidiary of Avis Car Rental. As of July 2019, the service is available in more than 170 cities in 44 states, as well as Canada and Europe.
Zipcar offers a bevy of driving plans, including one for occasional driving with no monthly commitments, and an extra value plan for frequent drivers. The monthly rates will vary by city and model. You can expect to pay a daily rate of $66.00 to $78.00 for a 24-hour period or approximately $8.00 to $10.00 per hour depending on the chosen plan.
The monthly driving plan is $7.00 per month while the extra value plan is $50.00 per month. New customers can enjoy $25.00 in free driving credits; students may also receive special discounts and credits.
Photo: Zipcar.
What Are The Pros of Zipcar?
Location: Available at almost all airports and college campuses in the United States.
Selection: Zipcar has a huge fleet of cargo vans, pickup trucks, luxury vehicles, SUVs, and hybrid cars.
Peace of Mind: The service comes with 24/7 roadside assistance and a rental option of up to seven days.
Range: Every reservation includes 180 miles per day. If you need more, Zipcar will simply charge an additional $0.45 per mile.
Gas & Insurance Included: Each vehicle comes with a gas card. You can use it to fill up the tank and Zipcar will handle the rest. All Zipcar members are covered with comprehensive insurance.
Simple: After applying online, your Zipcard is mailed to you, giving you access to thousands of vehicles worldwide. Book your ride, tap the Zipcard on the car’s windshield to unlock the vehicle, and you’re ready to hit the road.
What Are The Cons of Zipcar?
Drop-Off Location: You are required to return the vehicle where you picked it up.
Added Fees: You’ll get hit with penalty fees ($50.00 to $150.00) for late returns and low fuel.
Verdict: Zipcar is available in more cities and airports across the country, and offers competitive rates within a range of plans. The widespread availability makes it an ideal choice for business travelers too.
If you join using our link, you’ll get a $25 free credit when you create an account.

Enterprise Car Share
Enterprise Car Share is found in a handful of U.S. cities and on 130 college campuses. The service is also available in the UK and Canada. Enterprise Car Share is part of Enterprise Rent-A-Car and leverages the company’s experience in the rental car industry. While rates are competitive, the reach in the U.S. is limited.
If you live in New York City, Enterprise Car Share offers two types of plans: Smart Saver and pay-as-you-go. Smart Saver charges an annual membership fee of $40.00 and will cost you around $79.00 to $175.00 daily; and $9.00 to $18.00 per hour depending on the chosen vehicle. Pay-as-you-go starts around $50.00 per month with hourly rates starting at $7.65. Houston, Philadelphia, and St. Louis are among the other major metropolitan areas Enterprise Car Share covers.
What Are The Pros of Enterprise Car Share?
Gas & Insurance: Both are included.
Location: Available in airports and on college campuses.
Range: Lengthy mileage allowance of 180 miles to 200 miles.
Flexibility: Offers customized plans for small businesses and government agencies.
Selection: Enterprise Car Share offers sedans, pickups, hybrids, and electric vehicles.
Rates: Slightly lower rates than other car sharing services. You can rent a vehicle 24/7 by the hour, per day, or overnight depending on your needs.
What Are The Cons of Enterprise Car Share?
Less Flexible: You must return the car where you picked it up.
Rates: Nothing is set. Rates will depend on the time of day or day of the week.
Availability: Enterprise Car Share is not available in most U.S. metropolitan areas. As of this writing, only 11 cites appear on their website.
Verdict: With the ability to rent a vehicle by the hour, Enterprise Car Share is best for shorter trips. The service also includes free pick-up if you reserve a vehicle from a non-airport location. However, the limited availability in the U.S. might mean you end up using another service anyway. Enterprise Car Share is, however, much more expansive in the United Kingdom.
Car2Go
Car2Go was established in Germany in 2008. It is now available in many North American and European cities and comes with no annual or monthly fees, and no membership costs. Their service model lets you grab an available vehicle from designated parking lots in your city. No reservations required! After you’re done with the trip, the process ends by parking the vehicle in the appointed spot and walking away. You don’t need to return the vehicle to the same pick-up point either.
The rates of Car2Go will vary by vehicle model and location. Typical rates start around $0.41 per minute and around $14.99 per hour. Daily rates start at less than $85.00.
Photo: Car2Go.
What Are The Pros of Car2Go?
Gas & Insurance: Both are included.
Rates: No membership fees and no late return fees.
Peace of Mind: 24/7 roadside assistance is standard.
Grab & Go: Per minute rentals are available, making it ideal for short trips around the city.
Flexibility: No need to return the vehicle to the same pick-up point. Return it to the appropriate “Home Zone” and you’re done!
What Are The Cons of Car2Go?
Selection: Smaller fleet of available vehicles.
Availability: The service is not yet available at airports and covers fewer cities.
Verdict: Car2Go needs to increase their coverage and service fleet to fully compete in the market. However, the hassle-free return policy and competitive rates are a strong point of Car2Go.
Peer-to-Peer Car Sharing Services
Turo
When it comes to peer-to-peer car sharing services, Turo is a hands-down favorite. However, there’s a catch: the service only offers daily or weekly rates, meaning it might only be ideal for longer driving scenarios. If you just need to go grocery shopping or run a few quick errands, why pay an entire day’s rate? In terms of selection, however, Turo is top-notch. The service offers the opportunity to rent a wide array of vehicles courtesy of local owners. This includes luxury sedans, premium SUVs, and even sporty cars or coupes.
Turo is available at more than 300 airports and over 4,500 U.S. cities. What we really like about Turo is the doorstep pick-up and drop-off feature. There’s no need to look for official home areas or parking lots, and the vehicle is sent to you at no additional cost. When you’re done, simply park it outside your house and Turo will collect it.
There are no sign-up or membership fees either. Daily rates start at around $18.00 to $30.00 with an additional rental fee of 10 percent. The owner of the vehicle will set the mileage rates (approximately 200 miles per day). The service will charge a fee of $0.75 per mile if you exceed the prescribed mileage.
Photo: Turo.
What Are The Pros of Turo?
Availability: Turo sends the vehicle directly to your location.
Selection: Wide array of vehicles including luxury and sports cars.
Rates: No membership or sign-up fees. The daily and weekly rates are lower than other services.
Passive Income: The owner of the vehicle gets a $1M liability policy and will pocket 75 percent of rental and over-mileage fees.
What Are The Cons of Turo?
Availability: The service does not offer hourly or per-minute rates.
Expenses: You will pay for your own gas. Fuel expenses are separate from the rental fees.
Other Fees: If you are under 25, an extra fee applies (an additional 20 percent based on the rental rate).
Verdict: Turo works well if you are doing a full day’s worth of driving, or need a vehicle for a longer period of time. Its widespread availability means you likely will have access to the service in larger U.S. metro areas.
Create an account on Turo and get started renting, or if you want to make money from your car, sign up here to list your car for rent.

Getaround
Similar to Turo, Getaround is a peer-to-peer car sharing service. But unlike Turo, it offers low hourly rates, making it perfect for short trips or occasional users. However, Getaround is only available in select U.S. cities, namely Washington D.C., San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Chicago, and Portland.
Rates start around $5.00 per hour and up to $45.00 per hour, depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Customers can also expect to pay a three percent booking fee for each trip. Daily rates will vary upon the owner’s behest as will the mileage limits. You can expect to pay $0.50 per mile if you exceed the limit, and a late return fee of $50.00 to $500.00, depending on the vehicle.
If you want to list your vehicle on Getaround, you’ll need to pay a one-time installation fee of $99.00 and a $20.00 per month subscription fee. The fees will cover the remote tracking and unlocking system.
What Are The Pros of Getaround?
Peace of Mind: Comes with 24/7 roadside assistance.
Rates: Lower per hour rates and no membership or sign-up fees (a perk for occasional users).
Selection: Good selection of vehicles including convertibles, luxury cars, vans, and exotic rides.
What Are The Cons of Getaround?
Expenses: You pay for your own gas.
Availability: Only available in a handful of U.S. cities as of this writing.
Passive Income: Vehicle owners receives 60 percent of the fees versus 75 percent with Turo.
Verdict: Similar to Enterprise Car Share and Car2Go, Getaround suffers from limited availability. However, the hourly rates make it ideal for shorter trips and one-off users.
Sign up for Getaround here.
Conclusion
Our top choice for a traditional car sharing service is Zipcar. The service is available in more cities and airports nationwide and offers a wider selection of vehicles. For peer-to-peer services, it’s hard to go wrong with Turo. The service might not offer hourly or per-minute rentals, but it does come with lower daily and weekly rates compared to other car sharing services. It’s also available in more cities.
Join Zipcar here and get $25 in free driving credits.
Do you have a car sharing service you use regularly? Let us know by commenting below or on our Twitter page.

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2020 Cadillac XT5: Caddy’s Best-Seller Gets A Whole Lotta Updates!

2020 Cadillac XT5: Caddy’s Best-Seller Gets A Whole Lotta Updates! The 2020 Cadillac XT5 benefits from a number of revisions for the new model year.
Interior themes focus on comfort and luxury; tech features on connectivity and safety.
A new turbo engine is on offer for 2020, although the 3.6 V6 remains an option as well.
Did you know the Cadillac XT5 is the brand’s best-selling model worldwide? That shouldn’t be all that surprising, given the popularity of SUVs, especially luxury ones, and Caddy’s inroads into the Chinese market. So with that as a background, you can see why Cadillac opted for only a revamp on their sales leader, and not a full-on redesign. Still, the refresh is as comprehensive as they come. Cadillac says over 40 different items were updated for the XT5 for 2020.
Here is a look at what to expect when the XT5 hits the dealership.
What Are The 2020 Cadillac XT5 Trim Levels?
For the new model year, the 2020 Cadillac XT5 comes in four trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury (a redundantly named trim level if nothing else), and Sport. The Premium Luxury emphases bright trim and contemporary décor, while the Sport goes darker and more aggressive. As you would expect, Luxury and Premium Luxury are oriented towards comfort, and provide a “retreat from road disturbances” as Cadillac says. The Sport, by contrast, has quicker steering and more aggressive chassis tuning and stuff like that.
Luxury and Premium Luxury models get 18-inch wheels standard, although a new 20-inch wheel is available. The XT5 Sport gets the 20-inchers standard. Across the range, you’ll find a new grille design, available in two textures, and an available Platinum package for more tech.
2020 Cadillac XT5 Premium Luxury. Photo: Cadillac.
And Speaking of Tech . . .
Caddy has no problem loading in as much as the bean counters will allow, and infotainment and driver assistance technologies take center stage. The new XT5 now has over 20 available safety and driver aids as a matter of fact. The XT5’s “user experience interface” receives an upgrade, as does the rotary controller with more comprehensive jog functionality. Please note this complements the conventional buttons and touchscreen, but does not do away with them entirely. This is a great move. Hörst du German auto manufacturers?
When Cadillac says user experience interface, they mean the eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, various apps, and an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. One-touch phone pairing with Near Field Communication is there, but this is slowly becoming standard, especially on high-end rides like the XT5.
2020 Cadillac XT5 touchscreen display. Photo: Cadillac.
Related: Affordable luxury for younger buyers: on the road with the 2019 Cadillac XT4.
Interior Treatments
This is a Cadillac, so of course the comfort and convenience goodies will make you feel like you’re driving a suite at the Hilton. There are new interior “themes,” each incorporating a richer selection of authentic materials and coordinating décor. There’s also a new Jet Black/Kona Brown theme that includes premium leather seats, door trim, and armrests. Further accents come by way of new designs for the center console and cup holders (natch).
Best of all, there’s a new Bose Performance Series sound system.
2020 Cadillac XT5 cargo area. Photo: Cadillac.
2020 Cadillac XT5: Power & Performance
The engine bay for the XT5 gets a new choice for 2020. The 2.0L Turbo is now standard for Luxury and Premium Luxury; the existing 3.6L V6 remains standard for the Sport, but is still an option on the Premium Luxury. Both engines are mated to a nine-speed automatic, controlled via the next generation of Cadillac’s Electronic Precision Shift technology.
The turbo found on the 2.0L is a trick, twin-scroll setup with a unique three-step sliding camshaft. Cadillac says the design optimizes performance across the rev band. Don’t say VTEC, although that’s essentially what it is. Bottom line here is an okay 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque. The six-banger, on the other hand, puts out 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft. of torque thanks to direct injection and camshaft phasing. There’s also Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and automatic stop/start to help fuel economy.
If you opt for the 2.0L Turbo, you’ll also get a new, electronically-controlled braking system replacing the conventional vacuum-assisted system. Would you look at that. Caddy finally got out of the 1950s!
Pricing & Availability
The 2020 Cadillac XT5 will be available later this summer. We expect a starting price right around $44,000. The new XT5 is produced in Spring Hill, Tennessee.
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.
2020 Cadillac XT5 Gallery

Photos & Source: Cadillac.

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2019 Mazda3 Sedan Review: Fun, Sporty & Affordable

2019 Mazda3 Sedan Review: Fun, Sporty & Affordable 95Excellent 2019 Mazda3 Sedan Overall Impression Stylish & affordable.Good safety features.ProsNice Interior All-Wheel Drive Driving Dynamics ConsCabin Noise Small Backseat AC Needs More Power The Mazda3 was good before, but it gets upgrades that lift it higher in the compact sedan segment. For 2019, the Mazda3 continues with its already sharp driving dynamics, and gains the 2.5-liter engine as standard equipment across all trims. Mazda has also made all-wheel drive an option this year, a bonus for customers living in cold weather climates who need extra grip. This week, we’ve been driving the 2019 Mazda3 sedan with the Premium Package and all-wheel drive.
Mazda3: What’s New For 2019?
The Mazda 3 is fully redesigned for 2019 and remains the brand’s best-selling vehicle. The aforementioned 2.5-liter engine is standard now, ensuring all models will have plenty of power. Safety systems for 2019 include Smart City Brake Support and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert among others. Trim levels include Select, Preferred, and Premium, along with a Hatchback option.
Features & Options: Just Enough For The Drive
The 2019 Mazda3 Premium all-wheel drive ($27,900) comes standard with LED headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights; a rearview camera, push-button start, 60/40-split folding rear seat, and an 8.8-inch central display. Tech treatments include Bluetooth, voice commands, and an eight-speaker audio system with HD radio and two USB ports.
Other features include 18-inch wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Additional safety features on our tester included forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking; a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert; adaptive cruise control, a driver attention monitor, automatic high beam control, and lane keeping assist.
The top-trim Premium package adds adaptive headlights, a sunroof, heads-up display, leather upholstery, and paddle shifters for models with the automatic transmission. Total MSRP including destination: $30,930. By comparison, the 2019 Mazda3 starts at $21,000.
2019 Mazda3 sedan.
Interior Highlights: Clean & Uncluttered
The new Mazda 3’s interior is clean with mostly quality materials and an overall solid fit and finish. The white interior with bald trim is especially attractive but it could be hard to keep the leather seats clean. This tester came loaded with a power driver’s seat (w/memory) and heated front seats for extra winter comfort. We settled in and found the controller-based interface is one of the best we’ve seen. Everything is uncomplicated in the new sedan, as controls and buttons are easy to see and understand. It doesn’t take long to find and select a function.
We could easily find the perfect driving position and visibility is descent out the front and sides for a compact sedan. The Mazda3 comes with a blind-spot monitor, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera as standard, making it easier to navigate and detect objects out of your normal view.
The 3’s roofline has a steep rake, so our passengers this week needed to duck to get into the back. They said rear legroom and headroom was a bit tight as we took a ride to lunch. I had to keep my front seat pushed up more than usual to accommodate their longer legs. Mazda wanted sleeker styling but rear passengers pay the price. Overall, however, we would give the cabin high marks at least up front, and this Premium upgrade comes with features found in more expensive cars. It’s a comfortable place to spend your commute.
2019 Mazda3 sedan interior layout.
2019 Mazda3: Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 186 horsepower and an equal 186 lb-ft. of torque. It comes mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The engine is standard with Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus, a series of motion control technologies to increase steering response and handling.
EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 25/33 city/highway and 28 combined with all-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive models improve to 26/35 city/highway and 30 combined. Our all-wheel drive tester came with cylinder deactivation which helps increase fuel economy.
Driving Dynamics: Sporty & Stable
Getting underway revealed a sporty ride and the dynamics from Mazda we’ve come to expect. The ride is comfortable, even at highway speeds, and the seats are supportive. Driving in the mountains west of Denver gave us the opportunity to push the sedan hard in the curves. The driving characteristics of the 2019 Mazda3 did not disappoint us either. The handling is crisp, and the steering offers up a light but engaging feel thanks to the G-Vectoring technology. However, with Denver’s temperatures in the high 90s this week, we cranked up the A/C but felt the climate control needed more power to sufficiently cool the cabin.
The 2.5-liter powerplant is naturally-aspirated and is eager to deliver from the onset, but it really gets going from the middle of the rev range. We had no problem merging onto the highway even with heavy traffic. We did notice quite a bit of road noise at higher speeds, despite Mazda saying they included additional sound insulation for 2019. In the city, we needed to make a U-turn and the Mazda3 has a quick-turning radius, making it easy to navigate parking lots and busy streets. But when the road gets curvy is when the fun begins in this sedan! The transmission even offers a sport mode which makes the car more responsive in the curves.
The 2019 Mazda3 is especially fun to drive on curvy roads.
Related: 2019 Mazda3: Two flavors and plenty of extras.
Driving Dynamics: Confident Cruiser
The 2019 Mazda3 will give a driver confidence as the car feels safe at higher speeds. We liked the 2.5-liter’s power, of course, but it feels stable as the suspension and transmission pair well with the larger engine. We didn’t test it through snow or over ice, but the available all-wheel drive gave the sedan more stability on the dirt roads we drove.
Conclusion: Definitely One To Consider
For those looking for an upscale, affordable, fuel-efficient, fun-to-drive, small sedan or hatchback, the 2019 Mazda3 should be on your shopping list. It’s especially attractive now with the all-wheel drive option and new engine.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. All of his firsthand reviews are archived on our test drives page. Follow Denis on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Mazda3 Sedan Gallery

Photos: Mazda North American Operations.

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The new Ford GT specs are out and it's officially the fastest Ford ever made

The 2018 Ford GT is capable of 216 mph and can lap the Nürburgring faster than a McLaren 675LT and Ferrari 458 Speciale.

What’s going on?

Way back in 2015, Ford did the unthinkable and surprised the world with the reveal of the all-new GT supercar at the Detroit Auto Show. Since then, everyone new it was going to be something special.

But believe it or not, two years have passed since the GT was revealed. Now, Ford finally published the car’s official factory numbers. And it’s batshit-insane fast.

For starters, how does, SAE-certified, 647 horsepower and 550 pound-feet of torque sound?

That sounds great. What does that translate to?

Well, that power comes thanks to an all-new twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6, which we already knew. Despite the deficit by two cylinders from the last Ford GT, the new model produces a whopping 97hp and 50 lb-ft of twist more than the supercharged V8 model. Not only does the power increase, the top speed does as well, at 216 miles per hour, compared to the last car’s 205. That makes it the fastest production Ford ever produced.

The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is mated strictly to an all-new seven-speed dual-clutch PowerShift transmission.

Straight-line performance isn’t the only thing making the new Ford GT fast.

Thanks to the new Ford GT’s clever active aerodynamics systems on the body, the new Ford GT laps the famed Nürburgring Nordschleife faster than a McLaren 675LT and the Ferrari 458 Speciale. The active systems consist of various moving air flaps placed throughout the body to actively channel air, all in the name of speed.

Specifically, the GT did it in just 2:09.8 minutes while the McLaren managed 2:10.8 and the Ferrari was interestingly at the bottom, at 2:12.9. They’re not going to be happy about that.

– By: Chris Chin

Source: Ford

The post The new Ford GT specs are out and it’s officially the fastest Ford ever made appeared first on egmCarTech.

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2017 Ford GT: Fastest Ford On Record

The 2017 Ford GT is the fastest production vehicle the blue oval has ever produced. At the heart of the GT is Ford’s most powerful EcoBoost yet, and an advanced, active suspension system.

A precise power-to-weight formula is also ingrained through the car.

The combination propels the 2017 Ford GT to a top speed of 216 mph, making it an absolute nightmare on the track for competitors. Typical to Ford’s strong racing heritage, and fresh off a historic victory at LeMans, the new GT comes ready for the track.

In 2016 development testing, Ford topped the McLaren 675LT at Calabogie Motorsports Park in Canada. They also ousted Ferrari, their long-standing rival, by beating out the 458 Speciale on the same track.

Each car received fresh fluids and tires and the optimal suspension configurations were set. The same driver was behind the wheel and the conditions were identical. The 2017 Ford GT recorded a lap time of 2:09.8, a second faster than the McLaren 675LT at 2:10.8. The Ferrari 458 Speciale, by compassion, ran 2:12.9.

Potent Performance

Ford’s new high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost for the GT is SAE-rated at 647 horsepower and 550 lb-ft. of torque. The engine’s wide powerband produces 90 percent of its peak torque from 3,500 rpm. The EcoBoost is assisted by a fully active dynamics system, providing the GT with optimum downforce, drag, and balance at any speed.

“Our expectation has always been that the EcoBoost V6 would perform exceptionally well in the Ford GT – both in terms of power as well as aerodynamic efficiency,” said Dave Pericak, Global Director, Ford Performance.

The Ford GT’s dry weight is just over 3,000 pounds, making for a power-to-weight ratio of 4.72 pounds/horsepower. The GT’s carbon fiber architecture helped drop weight, although some of that weight was reinvested back into the car to increase performance, seen most notably with the active dynamics system.

“We are extremely pleased with how it performs, both on the track and on the road,” Pericak said.

The Ford GT raced to class wins at Le Mans and numerous other tracks in both IMSA and WEC last season. The production Ford GT resembles the high-performance track version a great deal, which means the end customer will definitely have an exciting car.

Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

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2017 Kia Niro: A lot To Like, Especially Price

Kia, the South Korean company that keeps churning out a brand new vehicle every 8 hours or so, just rolled out another debut model: The all-new Kia Niro. That’s Niro, with an ‘i,’ not with an ‘e.’ That’s the crazy Roman emperor dude or that unneeded antagonist from that Star Trek re-boot movie. This is neither.

The Kia Niro is, like seemingly all their products, pretty durn cheap to acquire, and comes frosted with a stack of gizmos, features, doo-dads, luxury bits, and alleged-luxury bits that make the car, whatever it’s shape, imaginary function, or invented “styling” worth considering.

Value Added

No, you will probably never see a Kia pull slowly into the drive-in and have a gearhead in a greasy white shirt whistle low and say, “whoa, a Kia!” No, you will probably never see a Kia product of any kind grace the lawn at Pebble Beach. But you will see, most likely, a Kia in the hands of a new driver – say 16 or 17 years old – or that kid that works at the drive-in or golf course and you’ll say, “not a bad choice for a first car.”

And they’re not. You get a lot of bang for your buck, and, let’s face it, you also get the added insurance (as odd as that term might sound just now) of having a car that is largely forgettable and disposable when you trade it in on your second car.

Take the all new Kia Niro as a good example.

It’s the brand’s new for 2017 crossover hybrid with five different trim levels: FE, LX, EX, Touring, and a limited production Launch Edition. And it rings the register between $22,890 for the FE to just $29,650 for the Touring. Kia crows: “Five different trim levels offer a Niro for every buyer, crossover utility, and hybrid efficiency at an affordable price.” Yes, that’s an awkwardly worded quote, but look what you get with this guy.

Photo: Kia Motors America.

FE & EX Trims

The Niro FE, that’s the range starting, bottom of the line, cheap-o version, with a beginning MSRP of $22,890. However, it is furnished with a long list of standard features such as 16-inch wheels, 6-way front seats, power windows, keyless entry, cruise control, and a 7-inch touchscreen display with rearview camera. It’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible, and features a six speaker audio system with steering wheel mounted controls.

Around $23,000 for all that, and it pulls in 50 mpg (combined) in fuel economy, meaning it’ll be cheap like the budgie to own. Next rung up on the trim ladder is the $23,200 LX. Spring for that extra $300 clams and you get Smart Key with push button start, roof rails, and rear LED combination lamps.

Shell out a little more for the EX ($25,700) and you get heated seats, leather wrapped steering wheel, LED daytime running lights, heated power folding mirrors, and front fog lamps. Driver assistance features include Blind Spot Detection (BSD) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Lane Change Assist (LCA). Many automakers today include the acronyms for these various technologies, if you’re wondering why all the extra letters. Which, to my way of thinking (arcane as it may be) translates as Look Over Your Shoulder (LOYS) Really, Look Over Your Shoulder (R,LOYS), and Make Sure There’s No One In The Next Lane Before You Move, Dingbat (MSTNOITNLBYM,D).

Seriously. Just pay attention for once, will ya?

Photo: Kia Motors America.

Launch Edition & Touring Trim

The Launch Edition is offered in only two colors: Snow White Pearl or Aurora Black Pearl. It is further set apart by unique Hyper Gray 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin tires, and a unique metallic color grille. A 10-way driver’s seat, 8-inch touchscreen navigation system, and Harman Kardon premium audio are included.

The Launch Edition will set you back $28,000.

The top of the line Touring trim chimes out at $29,650. Not at all unreasonable. For that, you get to add a power tilt/slide sunroof, front and rear park assist, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, 10-way power driver’s seat with memory, and the aforementioned Harman Kardon audio.

Additional Goodies

In case those trim levels are not enough for you, there are also three option packages on offer. The Advanced Technology Package for the LX is $1,450 and includes Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning System. There is a Sunroof and Advanced Technology Package for the EX at $2,300 that also includes a power tilt/slide sunroof, Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning System.

The Advanced Technology Package, $1,900, for the Touring includes HID headlights, wireless phone charging, 110V inverter, Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and the Lane Departure Warning System once again.

“We’re always striving to offer exciting new products that redefine their segments in all areas, including price,” said Orth Hedrick, Vice President of Product Planning, Kia Motors America, and owner of a really cool superhero name. “The new Niro checks all the boxes – it provides crossover utility, good looks, outstanding fuel economy, it’s fun to drive, and it’s affordable.”

So there’s a lot to like about the new Kia Niro; content, efficiency, and probably most of all, price.

Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.

2017 Kia Niro Gallery

Photos & Source: Kia Motors America.

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