Automotive

Le Fil Rouge Concept: The Future Hyundai?

Le Fil Rouge Concept: The Future Hyundai? Hyundai recently unveiled the Le Fil Rouge (HDC-1) concept at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show. As the name implies, Le Fil Rouge (common thread) is Hyundai’s belief that past, present, and future designs are interconnected.
“Le Fil Rouge is a reinterpretation of Hyundai’s design DNA that originated from the brand’s historical Hyundai Coupe Concept in 1974,” explained Luc Donckerwolke, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai’s Design Center.
Four Points
Is this a new era for Hyundai and a preview of what their next cars will look like? It appears so. Hyundai calls this new design “Sensuous Sportiness,” which centers on four different but distinct traits: proportion, architecture, styling, and technology. Here is a brief look at what these four individual elements mean.
“Building on our long history of creating distinctive and sporty character in vehicles, we will open a new era for Hyundai design,” Donckerwolke said.
The Hyundai Le Fil Rouge concept at the 88th Geneva International Motor Show.
Proportion & Architecture
Proportion will be achieved through things like a longer wheel base, larger wheels, and shorter overhangs. The proportion aspect also involves how the driver will sit in the car and how the roofline impacts the vehicle’s appearance. In a similar way, the architecture component – or “Light Architecture” as Hyundai dubs it – will create a forward-motion look and feel.
“Tube Architecture” is the expansion of Light Architecture, only on the inside. The idea, according to Hyundai, is to create an emotional response inside the vehicle that matches the exterior. Tube Architecture also accounts for the interior’s overall ergonomics while prioritizing a lightweight design to increase performance.
Photo: Hyundai Motor Company.
Styling & Technology
Although styling seems to be the biggest element, what Hyundai really wants is for their cars to be recognized from a distance; and this new design language incorporates the artistic elements necessary to make that happen. The technology part seems self explanatory, but with regard to where Hyundai wants to go, it shows up in little, unexpected ways.
“Our goal is to build a beloved brand by creating vehicles with heightened emotional value to reshape the landscape of car design,” said Sang-yup Lee, Vice President and Head of Hyundai Styling.”
Tech for Hyundai means more than just intuitive controls and panoramic floating displays, but also re-vitalized wood and special fabrics that create emotion when a driver sits down. The Sensuous Sportiness theme will expand to all Hyundai vehicles, from sedans to SUVs. The ultimate goal is to bring new levels of beauty, charisma, and desirability to the product lineup.
“This is the foundation of our concept,” Lee added.
In Person
The Hyundai Le Fil Rouge concept is on display at the Geneva International Motor Show until the 18th.
Hyundai Le Fil Rouge Concept Gallery

Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor Company.

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McLaren ‘Hyper-GT’: Fastest McLaren Ever Fires The Cannon

McLaren ‘Hyper-GT’: Fastest McLaren Ever Fires The Cannon You know when you’re in a bar on the wrong side of town, then all of a sudden there’s the sound of breaking glass and roaring silence and a deep, harsh voice says, “Okay then. Let’s take it outside.” Well that is, in essence, what McLaren just said to every other car maker on the planet, but they were looking right at Bugatti when they said it.
Hyper Tension
McLaren just fired this huge warning shot at the Geneva International Motor Show. They call it the ‘Hyper-GT,’ which is a stupid, stupid name, but it’s only a place holder, so don’t worry. The main thing they said was the ‘Hyper-GT’ will be capable of exceeding 243 mph. Yes, for those of you keeping track at home, that’s the max velocity of the iconic McLaren F1. Yes, in a way, this will be the “replacement” for the F1. In a way. And also “exceeding 243 mph” means it is going to be pretty close to what Bugattis and Koenigseggs are capable of doing. In other words, the top speed wars are on.
The ‘Hyper-GT’ is the next model in the Ultimate Series and follows the aerodynamically pure, yet aesthetically revolting McLaren Senna. The ‘Hyper-GT’ will feature a three-seat cockpit design and centrally-mounted driving position just like in the F1 (or the Ferrari Guida Centrale, if you want to go way back).
Photo: McLaren Automotive.
All In One
Baring the internal code name BP23, the ‘Hyper-GT’ aims to be both the fastest-ever and the most luxurious McLaren yet. The idea is that the McLaren BP23 would deliver an unparalleled blend of extreme performance with its petrol-electric hybrid powertrain and sporting luxury, and, at the end of the day, still be the ultimate road-going McLaren. And no, this is not just a rumor, this is straight from the lips of McLaren Automotive CEO Mike Flewitt during the Geneva Motor Show press conference. So consider it as official as it can get.
Limited Commodity
McLaren will only make 106 examples of the BP23. Astute readers will note that 106 is the same number of F1s made by McLaren, so they are really leveraging their past history with this upcoming car of theirs. McLaren also notes that all the ‘Hyper-GTs’ are already sold and will run £1.6 million plus taxes to buy. Kind of cryptic, that. Basically means they cost a lot but they’ve already sold anyway.
Production & In Person
Production is due to begin at the end of 2019, with every BP23 out of the factory personalized to each owner’s taste by McLaren Special Operations, or MSO, the in-house skunk works division responsible for bespoke customer commissions. The real name of the McLaren ‘Hyper-GT’, together with the maximum speed attainable, will be disclosed nearer to the car’s reveal. The ‘Hyper-GT’ will be shown to the public before the end of the year, with a private preview for its depositors ahead of that. That’s a nice way of saying the filthy rich will get a look at it before us yobs do.
There’s a reading of the tea leaves that can be done here, but to me, it seems rather simple: McLaren, former holder of the world’s fastest and coolest car crown, just got tired of hearing about Bugatti all the time.
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.
Photos & Source: McLaren Automotive.

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Hey Elon: Say Hello To The Porsche Mission E Cross Turismo

Hey Elon: Say Hello To The Porsche Mission E Cross Turismo When it comes to EVs, Teslas are the top-of-the-line, right? They’re the benchmark, or so goes the conventional wisdom. And that also goes a long way to explain that smile often seen on Elon Musk’s face. Well, the new Porsche Mission E Cross Turismo is here to dim that smile a little, if not wipe it off completely.
For a while now, Porsche has been talking trash at Tesla, implying, if not outright stating that Tesla doesn’t understand performance and how to combine it with efficiency. They seem to suggest Teslas are little more than toys and not real cars. ‘Just wait until you see a Porsche EV. You’ll see how off you really are.’
And now, at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show, here it is: the new Porsche Mission E Cross Turismo.
X Marks The Spot
Porsche calls it an electrically-powered “Cross-Utility Vehicle” and it effectively squares off against the Tesla Model X, and by extension, any other crossover out there. The Mission E Cross Turismo is designed for active lifestyle individuals with an all-wheel drive system that easily handles varied weather conditions. The interior offers plenty of cargo space and an exterior mounting system for larger stuff like surfboards or bicycles. The four-seater features a new display and control concept with touchscreens and eye tracking.
It uses an 800-volt fast-charging system and can also be charged via induction or a charging dock, and integrates with a Porsche home energy management system.
Porsche Mission E Cross Turismo on display at the 88th Annual Geneva International Motor Show.
Exterior Design
Yes, Porsche calls it a Cross-Utility Vehicle, but it looks sort of like a big station wagon with a slight lift kit. It has the Matrix Design LED headlights found on other Porsches, and even the four-point daytime running lights seen on their race cars. The off-road design elements are seen in the rugged wheel arches and door sills, the front spoiler and rear fascia, and the improved ground clearance. The side skirts go for an off-road look and the 20-inch wheels with big 275/40 R20 tires also help.
There’s a flow-through roof spoiler with a full-length light strip and the large panoramic glass roof extends from the windshield to the tailgate.
Interior Treatments
The interior features a fresh take on the classic Porsche design elements. The instrument panel emphasizes the width of the Mission E Cross. The dashboard has a clear horizontal arrangement with a wide display for both the driver and front passenger. The instrument cluster is curved and angled toward the driver, and is free-standing with three circular display fields shown on TFT screens.
Other interior design elements include visible lightweight structures in the dashboard and seats reminiscent of racing buckets with illuminated Porsche lettering. Anodized trim pieces in Nordic Blue around the air vents and the window switches provide a nice contrast to the black Aniline and Light Grey two-tone interior.
Photo: Porsche Cars North America.
Power & Performance
Now, about that powertrain. There are two synchronous electric motors with a total system output of over 600 horsepower (440 kW). That’s good enough to accelerate the Mission E Cross Turismo to 62 mph in less than 3.5 seconds and to 124 mph in under 12 seconds. The all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring is demand-controlled and automatically distributes torque to the individual wheels.
“This performance is in addition to a continuous power level that allows for multiple launches in succession without losing performance, which is unprecedented among electric vehicles,” reads a statement from Porsche. Although they might as well have added, “Try doing that with your one-shot ‘ludicrous mode’ Elon!” Ouch.
Photo: Porsche Cars North America.
Availability & In Person
Curiously, Porsche does not mention the weight, or the battery design and placement. I’d like to know more about that. Below is a handy chart with the specs we do know. For the time being, it’s on display at the Geneva International Motor Show until the 18th. The production-version Mission E Cross Turismo will make its world premiere next year.
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.
Porsche Mission E Cross Turismo Technical Information
Propulsion
Two permanently excited synchronous motors
Electric Motor Output
600 hp / 440 kW
Drive Type
Demand-Controlled All-Wheel Drive
Acceleration (0-100 kmh)
3.5 seconds
Acceleration (0-200 kmh)
< 12 seconds
Length
194.8 inches
Width
78.3 inches
Vehicle Height
55.9 inches
Wheel size
20 inch
Tire size
274/40 R20
Porsche Mission E Cross Turismo Gallery

Photos & Source: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.

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This Nissan Titan Is A Giant BBQ Grill On Wheels. No. Seriously.

This Nissan Titan Is A Giant BBQ Grill On Wheels. No. Seriously. The only way this could get more ‘Murican is if it was being shot out of a t-shirt cannon by a scantily clad energy drink model into the stands of a monster truck rally while Grand Funk Railroad’s We’re An American Band discharged from the PA system at ear-bleeding decibels. “This” is a full-size pickup truck that comes with its own bar-b-que. Let me break that down for you into the important parts: Full-size. pickup truck. bar-b-que.
The irony here is that it’s a Nissan.
There’s an old saying: If you want to learn something about America, ask a foreigner. It’s amazing how much we don’t know about our own country, and even more embarrassing what we choose to actively ignore about it (see: Native Americans, genocide of; slavery, role in Civil War; etc.). So, like I said, leave it to a foreigner, in this case a Japanese manufacturer, to point this out to us in the most bodacious, cool, boss, and, let’s face it, most American way possible.
Nissan is debuting the world’s first fully integrated in-truck-bed smoker and mobile kitchen – a modified 2018 Titan XD King Cab dubbed “Smokin’ TITAN.” Photo: Nissan North America.
Even The Kitchen Sink
The fact that someone hasn’t done this before (and if they have, I’d be surprised that I missed it, so deep is my addiction to bar-b-que) is beyond me. The fact that an American truck company hasn’t done it before is a national humiliation. This, this would be the perfect thing to have at a tailgate party before the big game. Family gatherings? The perfect thing. 4th of July? The perfect thing. You get the picture.
This, to finally get to the point, is the Smokin’ TITAN! Unabashedly and accurately called by Nissan: “The ultimate tailgating and barbecuing pickup truck.” It is a full-size TITAN (all caps baby!) with a custom flatbed, built-in smoker, and fully functional mobile kitchen, including the kitchen sink. Or, at least attached to the trailer hitch.
Nissan just rolled the beast out during this year’s Geneva International Motor Show-I’m sorry, they actually just showed it at the 2018 Work Truck Show in Indianapolis (the largest work truck event in North America). But man, I’d pay real money to see the reactions if they had rolled this out in Switzerland. Shoot, I bet it would have violated several Swiss laws, not to mention that I bet the American Heart Association and vegetarians everywhere are looking at the Smokin’ TITAN like it’s a bug that must be squashed.
Photo: Nissan North America.
Cooking With Crisco
It all started out with a literal, run-of-the-mill stock Titan XD King Cab right from the Canton, Mississippi factory floor. Onto the Titan XD’s broad, metal shoulders was lumped all sorts of BBQ-related gear, starting with a custom CM Truck Beds aluminum flatbed. This allowed space for three food prep stations each featuring a Partner Steel aluminum double burner prep stove, alongside a Churrasco Brazilian Wood cutting board. There’s even a custom, Teton Steel on-board 24×24 sink with a water storage system.
Or, if cold storage is more of a priority, the sink and water system can be swapped for a Yeti Cooler. Since Titans have flat load floors, and that second row of seats in the King Cab, Nissan saw fit to include an ARB 50-quart Fridge Freezer with a custom spice rack.
Attached to the hitch of the Smokin’ TITAN is a B&S Custom trailer made from another Titan XD’s factory bed. Aesthetically, it works great. Culinarily, how could this possibly go wrong? The Smokin’ TITAN bed-trailer features two truck boxes as lockable dry storage for your smoker pellets and wood chips, which sit conveniently on either side of the smoker. A B&S Customizing sliding tray was designed to easily move the smoker in and out of the bed, and to support the Lang BBQ Smoker and Char Grill. For those heartbreaking times when the smoker is not in use, the whole trailer can be locked down with a steel Diamondback SE Tonneau cover.
The Smokin’ TITAN spices things up with an IF Signs Custom Flame wrap, 20-inch ICON Alloy Alpha wheels, and Nitto Terra Grappler tires. Photo: Nissan North America.
Availability
Is Nissan actually going to make a bunch of these ‘Smokin’ TITANs? Are you crazy? The liability release forms would take weeks to fill out, not to mention the sign offs you’d have to get from your team of cardiologists. So no, you can’t just go out and buy one. You can, however, always go out and buy your own bar-b-que. Which I highly recommend.
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.

Photos & Source: Nissan North America.

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2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van: One Size Fits Most

2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van: One Size Fits Most The new Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van just hit the public eye at The Work Truck Show in Indianapolis. It comes with new driver-assist technologies, two new drivetrains, and aims to keep up the Transit Connect’s reputation as being the best-selling compact cargo van in America.
Safety & Convenience Technology
The 2019 Transit Connect is covered with driver-assist technologies – it actually has the most in the segment, according to Ford. There’s Automatic Emergency Braking, Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Side Wind Stabilization, and a Rearview Camera all standard. The optional safety features are just as impressive: Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping System, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
And, since everybody today is connected and has a smartphone, there’s a standard embedded 4G LTE modem that provides Wi-Fi for up to 10 devices, and an available 6.5-inch floating touchscreen running SYNC 3 to help you while taking customer calls or navigating hands-free to job sites.
Wireless phone charging is available for the 2019 Transit Connect Van. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Management Tools
FordPass is on board to help monitor small fleets, including such data points as driver location, fuel level, and tire pressure. The MyKey programmable ignition is standard on Transit Connect XLT, so owners and fleet administrators can preset warnings and limits for vehicle speed, but also restrict the entertainment system’s audio to 45 percent of the maximum volume.
Power & Performance
Ford likes to say that there are powertrains to fit every need when it comes to the 2019 Transit Connect Cargo Van. In fact, there are three different engines capable of running on five different types of fuels, so businesses have many choices when it comes to finding the right engine.
There’s a standard and new 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with Auto Start-Stop and direct-injection. This plant is paired with a new eight-speed automatic for responsive around-town performance and low-rpm cruising on the highway. The 2.0-liter inline four is also E85 compatible and comes with a standard heavy-duty battery, and an available heavy-duty alternator if your job requires it.
There is also a new 1.5-liter EcoBlue diesel engine sporting an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of at least 30 mpg on the highway. This new diesel engine combines the latest in Ford’s fuel injection, turbocharging, and emission control tech, and is fitted with the eight-speed automatic transmission. If you’re a heavy fleet user, there is also a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder with a six-speed automatic and CNG/propane package available.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Cargo Capacity
But what about your stuff? This is a van after all, so it better be functional and capable when it comes to handling loads. Ford says the Transit Connect is a modern-day workhorse, and I am not about to doubt them. Although Ford did not provide us with exact capacity specs, they do say you can load a 48-inch pallet via forklift with ease thanks to the 180-degree, swing-out rear doors. And the doors can be locked in the open position, which is great news if you have to load and unload on a hill, for instance.
With a 38.3-foot turning diameter and shorter wheelbase, the 2019 Transit Connect should be able to handle tight city streets with ease. The Transit Connect will also tow 2,000 lbs. when you get the available tow package, so that’s handy too. Finally, there are dual sliding side doors (ideal for tight urban environments) and near-vertical walls inside with integrated tie-downs.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Add-Ons & Modifications
And since this is a work van aimed at the fleet market, the Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van is as customizable as they come. There is already substantial support from aftermarket upfitters and suppliers for interior cargo management solutions as well as adding stuff like ladders and roof racks. Ford says it doesn’t matter what your business is, from mobile dog grooming to pipefitting, the Transit Connect Cargo Van can be kitted out to meet your needs with ease.
Availability
So what you’ll end up with is a smaller van that delivers great competence and a compact footprint with city-friendly maneuverability. The new Transit Connect is great for small businesses and fleet administrators trying to “right-size” their vehicles. The 2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van goes on sale this fall at more than 3,000 Ford dealers nationwide, including more than 650 dedicated Commercial Vehicle Center dealers.
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.

Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.

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Mazda & Toyota Establish Joint-Manufacturing Venture

Mazda & Toyota Establish Joint-Manufacturing Venture Mazda Motor Corporation and Toyota Motor Corporation have established a new joint-venture called Mazda Toyota Manufacturing, U.S.A., Inc., or “MTMUS.” The new company will produce vehicles in Huntsville, Alabama starting in 2021 with the goal of increasing production for both automakers. More specifically, the new plant will have the capacity to produce 150,000 units of a forthcoming Mazda crossover and 150,000 units of the Toyota Corolla.
The facility is expected to create up to 4,000 new jobs.
“We hope to make MTMUS a plant that will hold a special place in the heart of the local community for many, many years,” explained Masashi Aihara, Mazda’s Executive Officer who will serve as President of MTMUS. “By combining the best of our technologies and corporate cultures, Mazda and Toyota will not only produce high-quality cars but also create a plant employees will be proud to work at and contribute to the further development of the local economy and the automotive industry.”
Toyota and Mazda are investing $1.6 billion toward the venture with equal funding contributions. In collaboration with the state of Alabama and the city of Huntsville, MTMUS will soon begin land preparation for the new plant, with full-scale construction slated to begin next year.
“The new plant, which will be Toyota’s 11th manufacturing facility in the U.S., not only represents our continuous commitment in this country, but also is a key factor in improving our competitiveness of manufacturing in the U.S.,” said Hironori Kagohashi, Executive General Manager of Toyota and MTMUS’s Executive Vice President. “We are committed to realizing a highly competitive plant and producing vehicles with the best quality for customers by combining Toyota and Mazda’s manufacturing expertise and leveraging the joint venture’s synergies. Based on this competitiveness, we will make every effort to becoming a best-in-town plant that will be loved by our hometown.”
“We hope that cars made at the new plant will enrich the lives of their owners and become much more than just a means of transportation,” Aihara added.
Source: Mazda North American Operations, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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Pirelli Showcases “Cyber Car” In Geneva

Pirelli Showcases “Cyber Car” In Geneva Pirelli unveiled something interesting at the 88th Geneva International Motor Show. This is a product with a pretty irritating name that is actually on the verge of being totally cool. The “Cyber Car” and what it does, and is potentially capable of doing, could be monumental in terms of applied data analytics. Essentially what Cyber Car does is apply big data to your tires, thereby allowing you to use that data to optimize performance.
“Hang on a sec,” you ask, “don’t we do this already?”
Data Linguistics
Why yes, car manufacturers do this already, using sensors placed throughout the vehicle and all the internal computers – throttle position sensors, slip angles, amounts of slip in the electronically-controlled diff, wheel spin indicators – to get a holistic picture of what you are asking the car versus what the car is actually doing moment to moment, and then, doing its best to make the driver’s wish come true.
So what’s new here? To answer that, answer this: What’s missing in all the current data acquisition systems? Tires. Tire information is what is missing. Sure, most modern cars have TPMS systems (tire pressure monitor), but what Pirelli has gone and done is put a number of sensors inside the tires themselves. And then they’ve come up with a common data language for the information the tires are generating, moment to moment, while on the move. From there, they seamlessly integrate that data with all the car’s other streams of data into a single, functioning whole.
So what? So there’s sensors inside the tire. What’s the big deal?
Photo: Pirelli.
Information Critical
A tire-embedded sensor can now be fully integrated into existing driver aids to improve performance and efficiency. If you can scoop up tons and tons of data concerning what your tires are going through – and remember, it all comes down to your tires eventually – then transmit that key data to the vehicle, your car can activate systems such as ABS and stability control. The vehicle can alter its setup on the fly for a safer, more comfortable drive, or, if you are at the track, alter the setup to maintain performance.
By accurately mapping the car’s weight, the vehicle’s central control unit can calculate precisely how many miles can be driven before recharging in an EV, for example. Monitoring temperatures from one tire to the next can more fully inform the traction control computer about possible road conditions, corner to corner (e.g. one corner could be colder and therefore prone to breaking traction).
Cyber Car informs the car’s computers about the tire’s vertical load, temperature, and pressure through the automaker’s factory interface, allowing timely intervention if the pressures go all skewwhiff. Tire maintenance becomes easier, thanks to feedback on tread wear and how tires should be seasonally rotated. Pirelli says the Cyber Car can even go so far as to offer bespoke services, such as valet and roadside assistance.
Photo: Pirelli.
(Not) Running On Empty
Think of it this way: What if you could analyze the blood gasses of a long distance runner in the middle of an Olympic event? Further, what if you could grab that data, say blood/oxygen levels, and provide that data through a Fit Bit wearable thing and also a Bluetooth earpiece? What if a runner could know, at a glance, that she’s got a lot of oxygen capacity left, so now’s the time to push that final lap kick a few hundred meters early. Get it?
The primary focus for various digital companies is gathering and manipulating and analyzing data. Amazon suggests products to you, and they’re right 95 percent of the time. Google can search for you and get the correct results at the top of the list. Car companies have been doing this already in certain, almost traditional ways.
Look at Ferrari’s E-Diff differential system. First developed in their Grand Prix cars, the E-Diff uses computers and incoming data streams for differential torque deployment to help the car turn more. And things like this can also be found in traction control systems, all-wheel drive architectures, ABS-as-supplementary-traction-control, and such. Cyber Car just takes that digitalization into a new era.
Future Applications
And the fact that Pirelli has made the data scheme a standard platform, it can be a literal plug-and-play situation, like getting a car with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. It won’t matter if you don’t own an iPhone. When you do, the car’s infotainment system will be ready for it. The new Pirelli Cyber Car system will be on the market by the end of the year. What you do with it will be up to you, your lap times at the track, and your insurance agent.
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.
Photos & Source: Pirelli.

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Ram Heavy Duty Night Editions Debut In The Windy City

Ram Heavy Duty trucks will mean business at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show as a new special package is revealed. The Night package is based on the monochromatic Sport appearance package, and will be available on Ram 2500 and 3500. The Night package will dress these powerful machines up even more, from the wheels to the grille.

The idea was to create a performance oriented feel.

“Truck enthusiasts look for ways to stand out from the crowd and Ram is building the best trucks in the enthusiast segment,” explained Mike Manley, Head of Ram Brand, FCA-Global.

Features & Treatments

Ram Heavy Duty Night packages start with the aforementioned monochromatic Sport appearance package. That includes things like body-colored wheel flares, for example. From there, black lighting bezels, black-bezel headlamps, body-color-painted bumpers, and a black grill surround bring the Night imagery to life.

Other elements exclusive to the Night package include a black grille surround with black billet inserts, flat black Ram 2500 or 3500 Heavy Duty door badge, and flat black powertrain door badging. The Night package includes 20×8-inch black-painted aluminum wheels and LT285/60R20E white letter on/off road tires.

Black rectangular running boards also are available.

Night package Ram HD trucks are finished inside with heated cloth vinyl bucket seats with 10-way power adjustment, power-adjustable pedals, and automatic temperature control with dual-zone climate control.

Ram Heavy Duty Night package interior. Photo: FCA US LLC.

Power & Performance

Ram Heavy Duty trucks are big hitters here, delivering 31,210 lbs. of towing capability through their 6.7-liter Cummins High-Output Turbo Diesel. The engine produces 385 horsepower and 900 lb-ft. of torque. Those looking for a gas HD truck may find value in the fact Ram has the largest displacement V-8 in the segment. The 6.4-liter HEMI has 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft. of torque.

Currently, Ram 2500 holds the ¾-ton gas-powered towing title with 16,320 pounds of capacity.

Ram trucks also come in handy right about the time snow starts piling up. Ram Heavy Duty trucks offer the segment’s highest plow ratings, and after watching this video, it makes sense. The plowing performance of a Ram is unmatched and would be an ideal choice to clear large areas, like a parking lot, during harsh winters.

“The Ram Brand understands that it’s important to meet the demands and deliver outstanding, durable products to every type of truck buyer,” Manley said.

Pricing & Availability

The Night package is available on Ram 2500 and 3500 (single rear wheel models only) in Crew Cab configurations, 4×2 or 4×4, and any available powertrain combination. Ram 2500 and 3500 HD Night models come in Bright Silver Metallic, Bright White, Brilliant Black Crystal, Delmonico Red Pearl, and Granite Crystal Metallic.

Production of the 2017 Ram HD Night models began in early February. Ram Heavy Duty Night pricing starts at $45,520 plus $1,320 destination.

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

Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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2021 Subaru Forester: Still Delivering The Goods Across 5 Trim Levels

2021 Subaru Forester: Still Delivering The Goods Across 5 Trim Levels The 2021 Subaru Forester remains a sterling choice among compact crossovers. The new Forester is essentially unchanged, but it now comes with more standard features, albeit at higher base prices this time around.

I have to admit; the Forester name commands respect. It was one of the first “crossover” vehicles available. It literally shook the market and became one of the frontrunners in the CUV category, and it’s not hard to figure out why. The first-gen Forester was known for having usable interior space, a comfortable ride, a proven all-wheel drive platform, and a raucous Boxer engine.

Somehow, the 2021 Subaru Forester is more of the same, and it still delivers the goods.

2021 Subaru Forester: What’s New

The base Forester is well-equipped from the start, but the 2021 model adds more. Standard on every trim is steering-responsive LED headlights (magnificent!), high beam assist, and a rear seat belt reminder. Although the 2021 Forester is officially a compact SUV, it can still tow up to 1,500 lbs. It even comes with standard trailer stability assist to keep it nice and tidy when lugging heavy loads.

All trim models come standard with Subaru EyeSight technology. The package includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision throttle management, pre-collision braking, lane departure and sway warning, and lead vehicle start alert.

2021 Subaru Forester. Photo: About Subaru of America, Inc.2021 Subaru Forester: Trim Levels

Even though the 2021 Forester is available in five trim levels, only one engine is available. I’m talking about the 2.5-liter Boxer unit with direct injection. Like most Subaru fanatics, I’m still pining for a proper Forester STI with a turbocharged Boxer engine in World Rally Blue paint and gold alloy wheels, but the 2.5-liter Boxer offers sufficient grunt with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft. of torque. A Lineartronic CVT automatic and symmetrical all-wheel drive keeps all four wheels in the right direction.

Forester Base

The base model has dual USB ports, remote keyless entry, and a decent multi-function display for $25,845 (price includes the $1,050 delivery charge). You also get a 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM. Not bad considering you get symmetrical all-wheel-drive standard and plenty of room for the family.

Forester Premium

For the money, we prefer the 2021 Subaru Forester Premium. It starts at $28,845 and includes 17-inch black alloy wheels, fog lights, roof rails, privacy glass, and a cool panoramic moonroof. At this trim level, Subaru throws in the All-Weather Package, which comes with thoughtful features like heated exterior mirrors, heated front seats, and a windshield wiper de-icer.

The Forester Premium also has an X-Mode feature with hill descent control to conquer the rough stuff. Inside, the cabin has a leather tiller, a high-grade combination meter with color LCD, and a mild sprinkling of chrome accents to seal the deal.

Forester Sport

Starting at $30,445, the 2021 Forester Sport includes 18-inch alloy wheels, gloss black exterior trim, a black rear spoiler, and orange accents including orange stitching for the seats. The Sport also comes with Dual X-Mode to offer more traction when needed. Subaru has a special option package, which includes a Harman Kardon premium audio system, an eight-inch infotainment system with Subaru Starlink, and a power rear gate for an additional $1,645.

Forester Limited

The 2021 Forester Limited starts at $32,445. It has 18-inch black machined alloy wheels, body-color side mirrors, chrome exterior accents, and a seven-speed manual mode for the standard Lineartronic CVT. Also standard is an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, perforated leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control with voice controls, and a power rear gate. The Limited also receives standard blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane changing assist.

Forester Touring

Highest up the trim ladder is the 2021 Forester Touring. With base prices starting at $35,945, the Touring comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED fog lights, chrome exterior trim, perforated leather upholstery in Black or Saddle Brown, and a 10-way power driver’s seat.

2021 Subaru Forester Availability

The 2021 Subaru Forester won’t be too far behind the 2021 Crosstrek when it arrives at dealerships in October. If you need something larger than the Forester or Crosstrek, but still want to stay with a Subaru, we recommend the new Ascent. We also have a detailed guide on the Subaru factory warranty to help you when you are shopping.

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.

Photos & Source: About Subaru of America, Inc.
Original article: 2021 Subaru Forester: Still Delivering The Goods Across 5 Trim Levels

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