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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2019-aston-martin-vantage-2019-new/2019 Aston Martin Vantage 2019 New
2019 Ford Ranger SuperCrew Review: Good Enough But Far From Great
This week, we drove the 2019 Ford Ranger Lariat SuperCrew 4×4, which is the top trim.
Ford Ranger: What’s New For 2019?
The 2019 Ford Ranger is all-new, at least here in the U.S. market. It’s been called a baby F-150 and can be mistaken for its big brother – let’s just say, trucks these days (even midsize ones) are bigger than they used to be. Like the F-150, the Ranger features a high-strength steel frame and an EcoBoost engine. Available in either SuperCab or SuperCrew configuration, the Ranger has three familiar trim levels: XL, XLT, and Lariat.
Chrome and Sport Appearance packages are available, as is a new FX2 package.
2019 Ford Ranger FX2.
Features & Options: A Healthy Mix
Our 2019 Ford Ranger Lariat SuperCrew 4×4 ($38,385) came standard with front and rear parking sensors, foglights, a 110-volt power outlet, an extra USB port, keyless entry, remote locking tailgate, 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, and a six-speaker stereo. The top-trim Lariat also gets 18-inch alloy wheels; LED headlights and taillights; an LED cargo lamp; power-adjustable and heated front seats; leather upholstery; and dual-zone automatic climate control. Tech features include an eight-inch center touchscreen with Ford’s Sync 3 interface, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
It also comes with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 safety suite which brings lane keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
This Lariat tester came with the optional technology package ($1,795); FX4 Off-Road package ($1,295); Sport Appearance package ($895); trailer package ($495); and spray-in bed liner ($495). Total MSRP, including destination: $44,960. By contrast, the 2019 Ford Ranger starts at $24,300.
2019 Ford Ranger.
Interior Highlights: Some Good, Some Not So Good
Our Lariat Ranger came with inconsistent build quality. For example, the leather seats and soft-touch materials are nice, but we think the Lariat has too much plastic for a top-trim model. The driver’s seat is nicely-positioned however, unlike the Toyota Tacoma that places the seat bases lower to the floor. We could find the perfect driving position in our Ranger with the eight-way power adjustments. Similarly, the telescoping steering wheel also offers a good range of adjustment. Legroom is excellent up front for taller drivers and there’s plenty of elbow and headroom.
There is a small bin to store your cell phone, and the automatic gear selector and pull-up parking brake handle are traditional. The Lariat touchscreen is larger (eight inches) and intuitive for the most part. The controls are generally easy to understand but there are too many small buttons on the climate control menu for our liking. With the advancements in the midsize truck segment today, the Ranger’s interior seems to run in the middle of the pack.
The SuperCrew offers a good amount of backseat space for adults and there won’t be any complaints on longer trips. The SuperCrew comes with a five-foot bed that may come in handy for weekend projects; but its short length and narrow width will limit what you can carry. You can opt for a longer six-foot box if needed.
2019 Ford Ranger interior layout.
2019 Ford Ranger: Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The 2019 Ford Ranger is powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. The turbo four-cylinder creates 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. of torque; it’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. When equipped with the tow package and a trailer brake controller, the 2019 Ranger’s max tow rating is 7,500 lbs. Max payload, when properly equipped, is 1,860 lbs.
EPA fuel mileage estimates come in at 20/24 city/highway and 22 combined mpg. Against the competition, the 2019 Ford Ranger comes out on top.
Driving Dynamics: Unsteady & Uneasy
The seats are comfortable, visibility is good, and the cabin is generally quiet, but we did experience a noticeable amount of sway as we hit uneven pavement. The Ranger’s suspension needs more damping and has a fair amount of unsteady bouncing that can make passengers feel uneasy as the cabin bobs back and forth. The 2019 Ranger does well on the open road if the road is flat and smooth. In the tight corners, the truck will track well but body roll is apparent.
The 2019 Ford Ranger features a double-wishbone suspension, monotube shocks, and parabolic rear leaf springs. Under a load, it’s probably ideal. However, on our test drive unloaded, we found ourselves being thrown around quite a bit by the bumps in the road.
Driving Dynamics: Silver Linings
The Ranger’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine has plenty of torque if you need to pull a small trailer. We tested the Ranger at altitude where you need a turbo engine because of the rarified air. The midsize pickup had plenty of “umph” to get us past slower traffic and up to highway speeds. We dropped the transmission into Sport mode for quicker shifts on the tight mountain roads near Denver and found it enjoyable.
The 10-speed automatic works well and did so for us in the mountains, never hunting for the right gear. This transmission contributes to the Ranger’s fuel efficiency, something we can attest to on our drive. With a maximum tow capacity of 7,500 lbs., the 2019 Ford Ranger can out-tow and out-haul its midsize competitors; a selling point if you do own a small trailer.
For off-road use, the available FX4 package makes it one of the best on the market. It adds off-road shocks, all-terrain tires, and a terrain-management system. We recommend the FX4 package for those who live where snow and ice is common. The added capability will provide peace of mind when old man winter strikes.
We recommend the FX4 package for the 2019 Ford Ranger.
Related: Does your new Ford have enough factory warranty to suit your driving needs?
Conclusion: Not The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread
We weren’t overly impressed with the 2019 Ford Ranger’s interior or suspension. We liked the feel of the engine and transmission, and the extra torque for pulling and towing at altitude. The Ranger also offers the latest safety and connectivity technology. However, the new Ranger is far from a slam dunk in a midsize truck market bristling with strong competition.
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 Ford Ranger Gallery
Photos: Ford Motor Company. (Additional trim levels shown).
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2019-ford-ranger-supercrew-review-good-enough-but-far-from-great/2020 Porsche Taycan: Inside The Four-Door, Fully-Electric 911
It has dual-electric motors and an 800-volt electrical architecture.
Porsche will offer the Taycan in two trims with different power outputs.
Folks, the 2020 Porsche Taycan is finally here. The Taycan is a number of firsts for Porsche. It’s the first-ever electric vehicle from the Stuttgart-based automaker, and it’s the first EV to come with an 800-volt architecture. It’s also notable for the clever two-speed transmission, which we will discuss in a moment. The Taycan is also the record-holder as the fastest four-door, all-electric sports car around the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
It did it in seven minutes and 42 seconds.
But alas! Elon Musk announced on Twitter the Tesla Model S will make an appearance at the Nürburgring next week, which is right smack in the middle of the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show – an international car fest dominated by popular German brands like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and yes, Porsche. Will the Tesla Model S beat the Taycan’s record, or will the Porsche finally lay claim to the mythical title of Tesla killer?
For now, let’s take a closer look at the 2020 Porsche Taycan, which is essentially a four-door electric 911.
Proprietary 800-Volt Architecture
I’m not big on electric jargon, nor am I pretending to know a lot about the inner workings of an EV. But I know the Taycan’s 800-volt architecture is unprecedented. It’s also a dominating factor for the Taycan, responsible for the longer range, higher efficiency, and overall performance. You may know the Taycan managed to sprint from zero to 200 mph repetitively? It did so without any degradation from the electric motors and battery pack, and the 800-volt architecture has a lot to do with that.
You see, other electric cars are running less than half the voltage – in particular, the 375-volt system in the Tesla Model S. In the Taycan, a higher voltage means lower current, which also equates to less heat generated by the motors and battery. It also means less weight since the vehicle comes with lighter and thinner wires that take up less space.
And since the whole electrical system produces less heat, it allows the motors and battery to deliver consistent power outputs without losing a beat. The 800-volt system also means faster charging times without overheating the 93.4 kWh battery pack. In fact, it only takes around 22 minutes to charge the battery to 80 percent using a 270 kW DC fast charger. Meanwhile, it takes 6 to 8 hours to fully charge using the standard 11 kW charger.
2020 Porsche Taycan. Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Ingenious Two-Speed Automatic Transmission
This feature is one of the most unique about the 2020 Porsche Taycan. Frankly, we’re surprised Tesla didn’t come out with this first, and we’re constantly blabbering on why electric vehicles only come with a single-speed transmission. It only makes sense to have more than a single gear in a torquey EV, and Porsche seems to know this all too well.
The two-speed gearbox is specifically-developed by Porsche for the Taycan EV. The entire unit is mounted on the rear axle. With two electric motors in the front and rear, the Taycan is an all-wheel drive electric sports car, but it’s not a full-time system constantly spinning all four wheels. When you’re not pushing it to the limit, the Taycan is using second gear with power coming exclusively from the front wheels.
However, in Sport or Sport Plus mode, first gear is engaged during acceleration to deliver maximum thrills with all four wheels burning the tarmac. First gear remains until 50 mph and switches to a taller second gear to maximize the range and top speed.
The 2020 Taycan is the first fully-electric vehicle from Porsche. Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Porsche Taycan Styling: 911 Meets Panamera
And then we get to what is conceivably the most important factor of all: the way it looks. The Taycan pretty much resembles the 911, especially when viewed from the front. But as you gaze towards the sides and rear, it borrows certain styling cues from the four-door Panamera. Then again, the Taycan sits lower to the ground and is shorter than the Panamera. Think of it as a stretched 911 with four doors and you won’t be far off.
Truthfully, we weren’t blown away by the Porsche Taycan’s styling. I don’t know about the rest of the team here at Automoblog, but I personally think the Taycan is a bit underwhelming in terms of style points. Maybe it’s because I’m all too familiar with the Mission E concept car, or maybe I’m expecting the Taycan to differ greatly from the concept first seen at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.
The interior is a different story altogether. You can get five touchscreens in a full-spec Taycan, and you also get the 911’s steering wheel as an added bonus. You sit low in the Taycan like in the 911, which contributes greatly to the vehicle’s sporting appeal.
2020 Porsche Taycan interior layout. Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
Porsche Taycan Production Specs
Porsche is peddling the Taycan in Turbo and Turbo S trim. No, there are no actual turbos in the Taycan, but who are we to judge? Both cars have two electric motors. The Taycan Turbo has a maximum output of 670 horsepower and 626 lb-ft. of torque. The Turbo has a range between 237 and 280 miles. Meanwhile, the Turbo S is good for 750 horsepower and 774 lb-ft. of torque. The Turbo S achieves 241 to 256 miles of range. Both have a top speed of 161 mph, and both have the 800-volt architecture and rear-mounted, two-speed transmission.
Related: Porsche versus the S&P: Can this classic sports car top the stock market?
As you can see, even the base Taycan is powerful enough to outrun most sports cars. The Taycan Turbo rushes from zero to 60 mph in three seconds while the Turbo S is faster yet at 2.6 seconds. For all these impressive numbers, we can’t help but wonder if all this is enough to outpace the Tesla Model S Performance version. The Tesla scampers to 60 mph in 2.4 seconds and has a range of 345 miles.
Photo: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
2020 Porsche Taycan: Pricing & Availability
Unfortunately, all the marvelous features in the Porsche Taycan won’t come cheap. The Taycan Turbo starts at $150,900 while the Turbo S comes in at $185,000. While the Turbo S undercuts the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, Tesla’s Model S Performance is less than $100,000 and is presumably faster and more “ludicrous” in the real world.
However, the Model S is a proper sport-luxury touring car, while Porsche is designating the Taycan as a true four-door electric sports car. We’ll find out soon enough which is which.
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.
2020 Porsche Taycan Gallery
Photos & Source: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2020-porsche-taycan-inside-the-four-door-fully-electric-911/2019 Hyundai Santa Fe: The Most Amazing Girl In School
Except I don’t ever get the courage to ask her out.
Friend Zone
This describes my relationship with the Hyundai Santa Fe. Despite my work in the automotive industry, I’ve never driven one. Never even been close. Never even been a passenger in one. I have simply marveled from afar, even going to Hyundai dealerships after they are closed to look at them. I realize this is nuts. I like a lot of vehicles – it’s a side effect of this profession – but the Santa Fe just really stands out to me.
Power & Performance
The most amazing girl in school just become more so with a new diesel engine in the mix for 2019. In total, the new Santa Fe will offer three engines: a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder with 185 horsepower, or a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 235 horsepower (estimated). The 2.2-liter diesel option definitely comes from left field, but it’s a welcome surprise with 190 horsepower (3,800 rpm) and 322 lb-ft. of torque between 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. Hyundai says the torque figure is an estimation for now, but that’s still a healthy amount.
All engines are mated to a Hyundai-designed eight-speed automatic, a lighter more efficient transmission replacing the outgoing six-speed. With the extra ratio range, expert better acceleration and improved fuel economy. Among the most interesting features is a multi-disc and individually controlled hydraulic channel torque converter, said to improve responsiveness. Further, the oil pump was downsized and double ball bearings added to minimize friction loss.
The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe comes in both front and all-wheel drive. It’s your choice.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Walk Around
I admit my bias here, but a quick glance at the new Santa Fe proves just how easy it is on the eyes. Up front is Hyundai’s signature Cascading Grille, followed by a “Composite Light” design which consists of LED daytime running lamps. Hyundai says (and I laughed a bit even) the “wide stance and athletic body makes a statement from 100 feet away.” Well, yes, true but if I personally owned a Santa Fe I would never want to be a 100 feet away from it.
Again, admitting my bias – I will focus – back to our walk around.
Looking at the side, what is most noticeable is the character line that arches from the headlights to the taillights. The outside mirrors are mounted lower and further rearward and the A-pillars have decreased in size. Diamond-cut 19-inch wheels are available for a little extra flare – not exactly necessary for a family vehicle, but still nice to have.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Family Features
Here is where Hyundai really dials in, providing a number of updates and luxury touches inside. The premium treatments include a layered, three-dimensional instrument panel, contrasting seat stitching, and an aircraft-inspired heads-up display. Convenience-wise, the center screen was tilted specifically to reduce glare, the window switches and grab handles were moved forward for more elbow room, and the height and length of the center armrest grew.
The area between the first and second rows was enlarged while the floor was slightly lowered – these design changes allow for less clutter and more legroom. Total interior volume, if you opt for the third row, is 150.7 cubic feet. Incidentally, the long wheelbase three-row version is renamed “Santa Fe XL” for 2019.
Safety is always a priority for families and the Hyundai Smart Sense package should provide peace of mind. The system includes a number of advanced safety and driver-assist systems like forward collision warning, blind spot detection, lane keeping assist, and rear cross traffic/collision avoidance.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Pricing & Availability
Expect the 2019 Santa Fe at Hyundai dealerships this summer with pricing announced closer to that time. In the meantime, it’s on display at the New York International Auto Show, now through April 8th at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. With sales of more than 1.5 million units, the Santa Fe is Hyundai’s best-selling SUV in the United States.
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: Hyundai Motor America.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2019-hyundai-santa-fe-the-most-amazing-girl-in-school/Maserati Levante Trofeo: Not Your “Normal” SUV. Not Even Close.
“It’s proof that when you play with the elements you end up in a storm,” explained Tim Kuniskis, Chief Executive Officer, Maserati. “In the case of the Trofeo, the engineers and designers in Modena knew the driveline parameters were more than able to cope with additional power, and they also knew that Maserati had access to the finest engines on earth.”
Granted, it’s highly subjective (and infinitely debatable) at which automaker actually has the finest engines, but I understand where the passion is coming from. In fact, the Ghibli is one of my favorite cars. I absolutely adore it. I actually love all Italian cars, Maserati no exception. When I see a Maserati I get excited and the Levante Trofeo gets me excited – not Ghibli excited, but excited. Does Maserati have the finest engines on the planet? I don’t know. Maybe. But they do have, in the Levante Trofeo, one of the most powerful engines in the Italian manufacturer’s history.
Power & Performance
What we are discussing is the Levante Trofeo’s 3.8-liter Twin Turbo plant, developed in tandem with the Q4 Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System. The new engine brings with it new hardware: crankcase, crankshaft assembly, oil pump, auxiliary belt, and wiring layout – all new and enhanced in the interest of performance. The turbo flow was increased, the cylinder heads redesigned, and the pistons and connecting rods strengthened to help achieve maximum power. Even the hood is new with special vents to increase cooling.
Add it all up and the Levante Trofeo hits 62 mph in 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 186. Between 2,250 and 5,000 rpm, a healthy 538 lb-ft. of torque is available with a max horsepower of 590. And like all Maserati gasoline engines, this latest creation is assembled by Ferrari in Maranello, Italy.
Photo: Maserati S.p.A.
Essential Foundations
The Levante Trofeo’s 50:50 weight balance, low center of gravity, and overall chassis design help handle the high power levels. The double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension went through extensive tuning in the interest of keeping the vehicle balanced further. Maserati’s Integrated Vehicle Control system is included for the first time in a Levante to increase stability and performance.
Walk Around
It’s easy to see how the Trofeo sits at the top-of-the-line for the Levante. The font is fashioned with Full Matrix LED headlights, a unique grille with double vertical bars, and a lower honeycomb fascia. Moving to the side, the painted brake calipers (they come in multiple colors) and 22-inch wheels really stand out, and the “Saetta” Trofeo logos are a nice touch. The wheels, by the way, come in both polished and matte finishes. Your choice.
Maserati makes note of the side air intakes defined by “two aerodynamic wings” for a sense of “further stability.” In a similar fashion, the Trofeo is fitted with carbon fiber side bezel blades and a carbon fiber splitter.
The seats have a full-grain “Pieno Fiore” natural leather, available in black, red, and tan, all with contrast stitching and a “Trofeo” logo on the headrests. Pieno Fiore is renowned for its natural feel and soft character – it’s ideally suited for a vehicle of this class. Music lovers will appreciate the standard 1,280-watt, 17-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system. I would recommend smooth jazz, but it’s your Levante, so it’s your pick on the music.
Photo: Maserati S.p.A.
Availability & In Person
Production begins this summer at Maserati’s plant in Mirafiori (Turin), Italy. The Levante Trofeo is initially intended for overseas export markets, including the United States and Canada. In the meantime, the Levante Trofeo Launch Edition can be seen at the New York International Auto Show, now through April 8th at the Jacob Javits Convention Center.
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: Maserati S.p.A.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/maserati-levante-trofeo-not-your-normal-suv-not-even-close/2019 Lexus UX: At Home In Any Concrete Paradise
Solid Footing
The UX resides on a 103.9-inch wheelbase for a smooth, stable ride and lots of interior space. This, combined with the overall length of 177 inches and a tight turning radius, lets the UX easily fit into convenient, compact-only parking spots. The chassis is Lexus’ first use of the Global Architecture – Compact platform, which the company says is a rigid structure, with a low center of gravity for precise handling and ride comfort.
There are MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone-type rear suspension, and both are specially tuned for a combination of “urban agility and comfort over well-worn streets.” Electric power steering is also along for the ride with a compact and rigid column assist for crisp, immediate response.
2019 Lexus UX on display at the 2018 New York International Auto Show.
Power & Performance
That new 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine delivers 168 horsepower to the front wheels, using multi-hole direct fuel injectors, a continuously variable capacity oil pump, and variable valve-timing on the intake side. The Direct Shift-CVT also debuts in the UX 200, adding a traditional gear set (beginning from a stop) to give the UX quicker, more linear acceleration off the line. The UX 250h hybrid, on the other hand, goes with an Atkinson Cycle version of the 2.0-liter that puts out 176 total system horsepower. It gets 38 combined mpg – not bad all around.
Sadly, if somewhat predictably, the UX 250h model is the only one with all-wheel drive. But hey, these things aren’t for surviving the zombie apocalypse, so you most likely won’t miss it. The UX 250h adds an electric motor to the rear axle; power is distributed between the front and rear axles and automatically optimized when accelerating, cornering, or driving on slippery surfaces. The eAWD control system is clever enough to improve stability by introducing drag (i.e. hitting the brakes on one corner) or adding power to help correct an over or understeer situation.
Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Predictive Insight
The Lexus UX 250h also comes with Predictive Efficient Drive, a system that analyzes driving habits along with road and traffic conditions to optimize charging and discharging of the battery. It’s a pretty trick, if somewhat creepy system, that uses accumulated knowledge about a driver’s behavior to predict when and where the vehicle is likely to slow down or stop. Tied in with the Predictive Efficient Drive system is the Predictive State of Charge control for the battery, a thingy that uses data from the navigation system to predict the optimal times for recharging it.
Connectivity & Security
And yes, since this is the year 2018 and the UX is aimed right at you urbane urban types, it is drowning in connected tech and safety features. There’s Amazon Alexa integration to see to all your music and media needs, read you a Kindle book, and control your swank smart home devices. On board safety features include the Lexus Safety System+, Lane Tracing Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Automatic High Beams, and Road Sign Assist. The vehicle can even recognize pedestrians at night and detect cyclists.
Availability & In Person
When the UX goes on sale in December, there will be a new option for those of you that still want a car but do not want to purchase or lease. For the first time, the UX will be offered through a subscription service, which should appeal to a certain younger segment of potential buyers. In the meantime, it’s on display at the New York International Auto Show, now through April 8th at the Jacob Javits Convention Center.
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.
2019 Lexus UX Gallery
Photos & Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2019-lexus-ux-at-home-in-any-concrete-paradise/2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt Ordering Now Open
“The new Bullitt will be every bit as cool and charismatic as the original ’68 Mustang,” said Corey Holter, Ford Car Group Marketing Manager. “Since its introduction earlier this year, Ford dealers have been fielding calls from customers wanting to know when they can order this unique piece of automotive history.”
Power & Performance
The new Mustang Bullitt features an open air intake, Shelby GT350 intake manifold, Brembo brakes, and a larger 87-millimeter throttle body. There are unique powertrain control module calibrations to help deliver the aforementioned 480 horsepower and 420 lb-ft. of torque. Top speed for the new McQueen machine is 163, an 8 mph increase versus the latest Mustang GT.
2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Colors & Treatments
Customers can choose between a Shadow Black or the more classic Dark Highland Green. There’s minimal badging inside and out, although the leather-trimmed interior features green accent stitching on the dashboard, door panels, center console, and seats.
Pricing & Availability
Those who opt not to order one won’t have to wait very long. The new Mustang Bullitt is expected at Ford dealerships this summer with a starting MSRP of $47,495.
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2019-ford-mustang-bullitt-ordering-now-open/Lamborghini Huracán Peformante Spyder Comes To North America
The Huracán Peformante Spyder made its North American debut during an intimate media unveiling in the heart of New York City. I was not there since I was both busy, and now almost completely feel that New York is trying to kill me, but that’s neither here nor there.
Light & Aerodynamic
What I have gathered though is that, by and large, the design, technology, and performance features found on the Huracán Performante are found in the Spyder in the same amounts. In other words, the Spyder is just as mean and nasty and fast as its tin-top brother, but with the added party trick of a lightweight, electro-hydraulic roof that opens in just 17 seconds. And you can drop that top up to speeds of 30 mph which is so boss.
The Performante Spyder is 77 lbs. lighter than its Spyder sister, thanks to the exclusive use of Lamborghini’s Forged Composite Structure and, with the top up, it still maintains the aerodynamic slipperiness of the coupé.
The Performante Spyder also comes with the Aerodinamica Lamborghini Attiva system. This is a trick bit of active aero that varies the load for either high down force or low drag, as well as facilitating aero vectoring in high-speed cornering situations. All of this adds up to outstanding driving dynamics both on the track and road.
The Lamborghini Huracán Performante Spyder has a dry weight of 3,322 lbs., with a distribution front/rear of 43/57 percent. Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Power & Performance
The Huracán Performante Spyder also gets an enhanced suspension, recalibrated ESC stability control, a more responsive Lamborghini Dynamic Steering system, and a permanent four-wheel drive layout for maximized traction in all situations. There is even a revised ANIMA . . . yeah, they really call it that. “ANIMA” is a driver “mode” system that customizes the setup of all the car’s dynamic systems. It comes in three settings: STRADA, SPORT, and CORSA.
Just like under the engine cover of the Performante Coupé, the Spyder has a naturally aspirated V10 engine, delivering 640 horsepower at 8,000 rpm. This plant is good enough for the Huracán Performante Spyder to accelerate to 62 mph in 3.1 seconds, and top out at 202. So yeah, it’ll blow your hair back.
Photo: Automobili Lamborghini.
Availability
Customers will begin taking deliveries this summer, and if you haven’t ordered yours yet, you’ll be happy to know the retail price is a mere $308,859 – which is right in line for that market segment. Red’s a good color. Get yours in red. I’m getting mine in red.
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.
Lamborghini Huracán Performante Spyder Gallery
Photos & Source: Automobili Lamborghini.
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http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/lamborghini-huracan-peformante-spyder-comes-to-north-america/Fiat Goes For Extra Flare With 500 Urbana Edition
Style Points
The Fiat 500 Urbana Edition, which just rolled onto the stand at this year’s New International York Auto Show, exists as a way for Fiat customers to brandish their personality, and stand out from the maddening city rabble. The Fiat 500 Urbana Edition is all about style and, sadly, not performance. There’s no word on a hot rod Abarth Urbana, but how could they not, eventually? The unique styling highlights include black-trimmed exterior lights and 16-inch “hyper-black” aluminum wheels.
Special Treatments
On the inside, there are sleek interior cues all over the place, including black Sport Cloth front bucket seats with nifty silver accent stitching and a snazzy black instrument panel bezel. The Fiat 500 Urbana Edition comes in five exterior colors: Pompei Silver, Bianco White Ice, Perla White Tri-Coat, Granito Gray, and Metallo Gray. Yes, for those of you that speak Italian, that one color translates as “White White Ice” which I think was also the name for that horrid rapper from Florida, but we’ll let that slide.
2018 Fiat 500 Urbana Edition. Photo: FCA US LLC.
X & L
The Urbana Edition is also available on the other 500 versions, the 500L and 500X. The 2018 Fiat 500L Urbana Edition, that’s the bigger version of the 500, the Longer one (although I think the L stands for Lusso) sports 17-inch black aluminum wheels, black exterior mirrors, and a black roof. The 500L Urbana Edition is available now.
The 500X somehow never got onto my radar, which is a shame because they offer an all-wheel drive version. At any rate, the 2018 500X Urbana Edition features Miron black-painted mirror caps, door handles, taillight surrounds, tailgate release, and a skid plate – so that’s more than most other Urbana variants right there. You will also find copper-accented side moldings and a special 500X logo along for the ride.
The wheels are 18-inch matte black deals that are accented with a copper center cap. You will also find Mopar side moldings on the 500X Urbana Edition. Yes, you read that right, “Mopar side moldings.” No, I don’t know what that means. And yes, I know that Fiat owns Chrysler. And yes, I am thinking the same thing you are: “Hey, if you could put Mopar side moldings on the thing, could you stuff a 383 in it??” If only!
2018 Fiat 500X Urbana Edition. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Wishful Thinking
Everything else on the various Urbana Editions is pretty much a box-stock Fiat 500. There’s that happy-to-rev 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo plant cranking out 135 ponies and 150 lb-ft. of torque, however. Like I said, sadly no Abarth version for the Urbana, although the regular 500 gets the scorpion badge. But no 1.4-liter mill turning out 160 horsepower and 183 lb-ft. of torque for the Urbana. Sigh.
Availability
The 2018 Fiat 500 Urbana Edition will arrive at Fiat dealers (which the company insists on calling “studios”) this spring. In the meantime, it’s also on display at the New York International Auto Show, now through April 8th at the Jacob Javits Convention Center.
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: FCA US LLC.
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