Automotive

Global Ford Focus Introduced; Inspires New Product Development Trends

Global Ford Focus Introduced; Inspires New Product Development Trends Take a new product development process, mix in human-centered design and customer feedback, and toss in a dash of new technology and simmer until tender. What do you have? The new Ford Focus.
“We’re evolving our successful One Ford strategy to find new ways to create a sporty-looking small car our customers will love,” explained Jim Farley, President of Global Markets, Ford Motor Company. “We’ll tailor which cars in the Focus lineup we offer in markets around the world to ensure we best meet customers’ different needs and preferences.”
Tailor Made
Ford employees spent hundreds of hours speaking with customers from around the world, and the new Focus will be “tailored” to each global region accordingly. Ford says, through the use of globally common but flexible architectures and modules, the new Focus can better appeal to individual needs while maintaining a high level of commonality but low complexity.
Future Ford vehicles will adopt this pattern. In essence, the automaker will move from individual platforms to more flexible architectures paired with modular “families.” This will streamline a number of common components like engines, electronics, and sunroofs.
The next generation Focus has as few as 26 configurations, depending on the global market, versus 360 for the current generation. Ford says the complexity reduction helps lower costs while ensuring customers can more easily find the right vehicle. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Tech Goodies
Expect the new Focus to tech it up with high-speed internet, wireless device charging, and the new CoPilot360 system, essentially a package of advanced safety features. The content of CoPilot360 will vary by region, but generally includes things like Adaptive Cruise Control, Speed Sign Recognition, Lane-Centering, Evasive Steering Assist, and an updated version of Active Park Assist.
The enhanced version of Active Park Assist operates the gear selection, acceleration, and braking when parking – prior versions required the driver to shift the gear and control the brake pedal. CoPilot360 also includes an Adaptive Front Lighting System, a camera-based technology that pre-adjusts the headlamps for improved visibility, like around a curve for example.
SYNC 3, housed in the eight-inch color touchscreen, is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With SYNC 3, drivers can voice control a number of functions like audio and navigation, or climate and connected devices. The FordPass app has a vehicle locator service, just in case you lose your new Focus in the mall parking lot on a Saturday afternoon. That same app doubles as a remote start.
“Aha! Found ya! Thanks FordPass.” Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Big Things & Small Packages
Get ready to stretch out backseat passengers! The new Focus gains nearly 2.4 inches of shoulder room, two inches of knee clearance, and nearly three inches of legroom. Up front, Ford says the instrument panel is “optimized for getting in and out of the car.” Wonder how they pulled that off?! The electronic parking brake and rotary shifter make for easier access to the cupholders. Perfect. Coffee time!
There are even soft knee pads on the center console for added comfort.
And how about this: special consideration was given to the shape of the mirrors to help reduce that air throbbing effect when one window is lowered while driving. Pretty cool!
Those with furry family members will find ample room in the wagon models for pet carriers. With the rear seats folded flat, the new Focus wagon offers a generous 58 cubic feet of space. Ford says considering the needs of pet owners was important during development.
“May I always be the type of car owner my dog thinks I am.” Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Power & Performance
The new Focus receives a chassis and suspension overhaul to increase torsional rigidity by 20 percent. Standard drive modes include Normal, Sport, and Eco, and adjust the engine and transmission responses, steering feel, and Adaptive Cruise Control to match a driver’s preferences.
In China, the new Focus offers the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine or an all-new 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine. In Europe, customers have a 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel available. North American powertrain options will be announced at a later date. The engines can be paired to an optional eight-speed automatic that actively assesses vehicle and environmental information to adjust clutch pressures for smoother gearshifts.
“The transmission shifts so quick, I just can’t even.” Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Pricing & Availability
No word yet on pricing but configurations include, depending on the market, a four-door sedan, five-door estate/wagon, and five-door hatchback. Expect the new Ford Focus in Europe and China yet this year, and in North America in the second half of 2019.
Ford says they will formally introduce the new Focus in North America closer to its on-sale date, which hints at a possible reveal during the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show, or the 2019 North American International Auto Show.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.

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Lotus Exige Cup 430 Type 25: The “Collector’s Piece”

Lotus Exige Cup 430 Type 25: The “Collector’s Piece” Okay, I am being totally serious here: I think Lotus is messing with us. They have put out so many “special” editions that I am starting to doubt them. Seriously, has anyone ever seen all the special editions in the same place at the same time? At this point, I wouldn’t be surprised if someone at Lotus said, “Nah, sorry mate! We was just havin’ a laugh!” and this all turns into some sort of prank.
Anyway, here is the new “special” edition: The Lotus Exige Cup 430 Type 25 Collector’s Piece.
Name Game
No, that is the real, full name for this thing: Lotus Exige Cup 430 Type 25 – billed by Lotus as a “collector’s piece.” At first I thought it was a piece, like a piece of a racecar or something. But no, this is an entire car. A specially-prepped, painted and limited-run Lotus Exige Cup 430. And yes, like all Lotus cars, it is impressive. It’s quick, fast, turns like the devil, and does the business.
Lotus will be making only 25 of this version, although the name also applies to it being a tribute to the Lotus 25 Grand Prix car from 1963.
Distinct Markings
To distinguish this edition, every Exige Cup 430 Type 25 is finished in metallic Lotus Racing Green, or Old English White, with contrast pinstripes on the front splitter, front access panel, bargeboards (which are new), roof panel, and rear wing, as well as unique decals on each rear buttress. In case you don’t know, Lotus Racing Green is not as dark as British Racing Green, and Old English White was the primary color on the Lotus Cortina (potentially the original sport sedan). This is all the work of the Lotus Exclusive program that combines traditional British craftsmanship with the best of modern design.
Lotus Exige Cup 430 Type 25. Photo: Group Lotus plc.
Power & Performance
The Type 25 employs a supercharger and chargecooler, designed specifically for the unique demands of the engine, which pumps out a very impressive 430 horsepower and 325 lb-ft. of torque. Given the size and weight of an Exige, that is a beautifully grotesque amount of horsepower. 60 mph comes up in merely 3.2 seconds before topping out at 180 mph. Lotus says it’s one of the fastest road cars to lap their Hethel circuit, covering the 2.2 miles in just 1 minute 24.8 seconds.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the Exige Cup 430 Type 25. There is also a variable traction control function, linked directly to the ECU and controlled by a six-position rotary switch on the steering column. There are five pre-set traction levels as well as “off”. . . and this is pointing out the obvious to us gearheads, but we all know how much capital-F, Fun that “off” position is going to be!
Aerodynamic Art
Yes, the Type 25 is road legal, but it is sort of a British version of a Porsche GT3: This thing shines brightest on the track. Motorsport aero can be found all over the place. The carbon fiber front splitter’s trailing lip helps separate and speed airflow under the car. The new air curtain elements on the front clamshell move air through to the front wheel wells to reduce turbulence and drag. The front louvers reduce the pressure within the front wheel arches and cut lift.
Out back you’ll notice the large cut-out sections behind the rear wheels to reduce wheel arch pressure and boost downforce. Put all that together with the high-set rear wing and rear diffuser, and you’re looking at over 450 lbs. of downforce.
Composite technology, according to Lotus, plays a considerable role in the Exige’s construction, with every area examined with the intent to cut unnecessary mass. Photo: Group Lotus plc.
Suspension & Braking
The suspension is as close to perfect as Lotus can make it. That means, as far as you’re concerned, it is perfect. Nitron three-way adjustable shocks and adjustable Eibach front and rear anti-roll bars are standard. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires are fitted to ultra-lightweight, fully machined, forged aluminum wheels. Stopping is done via forged, four-piston AP Racing brake calipers and race-derived two-piece, J-hook brake discs.
Interior Treatments
On the inside it’s all down to business. The Type 25’s interior includes in-house manufactured carbon race seats, themed in black Alcantara, with bespoke trim and a custom stripe for the head and backrest. The door panels and face-level vents feature new contrast double stitching, and the cabin is finished all around in anodized aluminum and carbon fiber bits and pieces. In a nod to the original Lotus Type 25 Formula 1 car, there is a wooden gear selector knob. Sweet!
Curiously, the Exige Cup 430 Type 25 is not all Harry Hairshirt track-focused austerity. There is air conditioning, an entertainment system, including iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, and cruise control. There is even carpet and floor mats. However, Lotus says if you want to be all Harry Hairshirt track-focused austerity, you can delete some of those items.
Sigh. I guess this “Special Edition” Lotus will have to go in my Lotto Garage as well.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.

Photos & Source: Group Lotus plc.

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A Brief Walk Through The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta Lineup

A Brief Walk Through The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta Lineup Volkswagen has released complete pricing information and trim level content for the 2019 Jetta. Based off VW’s MQB platform, the 2019 Jetta made its debut earlier this year in Detroit, Michigan. The new Jetta will be available in five different trim levels, and offer more interior room and technology than the outgoing model. Every Jetta contains a Driver Personalization feature with up to four settings.
Should you find yourself in the market for a new Jetta, here is a brief look at each individual trim level.
Jetta S
This entry Jetta has a host of tech features including Bluetooth capability, 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, VW’s Car-Net App-Connect, and a USB port. Other standard features include 16-inch silver “Rama” aluminum-alloy wheels, LED Daytime Running Lights, chrome grille, multi-function steering wheel, rearview camera, electric parking brake, and Eco driving mode.
With a starting MSRP of $18,545 for the six-speed manual, it’s hard to go wrong if you’re looking for a simple commuter car. The eight-speed automatic Jetta S is slightly more, starting at $19,345. Add the Driver’s Assistance Package for $450 and receive Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist), Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert, and heated side mirrors.
2019 Volkswagen Jetta. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Jetta SE
The SE adds a few more premium treatments like a panoramic sunroof, push-button start, leatherette seats, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The eight-speed automatic is standard as are the 16-inch two-tone “Rama Black” aluminum-alloy wheels. Toss in the Cold Weather Package (available mid-year – $495) and ward off Old Man Winter with a heated steering wheel and rear seats, heated windshield washer nozzles, and remote start.
The Jetta SE starts at $22,155.
Jetta R-Line
The R-Line brings a bit more personality to the party with an XDS electronic differential, 17-inch dark gray “Trenton” aluminum-alloy wheels, gloss-black front grille, fog lights, special R-Line rear bumper, and dual exhaust. R-Line badges decorate the car inside and out while driver’s are treated to a multi-function steering wheel with contrast stitching, and two-tone black and grey seating surfaces with contrast stitching.
The aforementioned Cold Weather Package is available. The R-Line starts at $22,995.
2019 Jetta R-Line. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Jetta SEL
The SEL starts by adding LED Projector/Daytime Running headlights, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a Drive Mode Selection system. The interior can be cooled (or warmed) via 10 different ambient lighting colors. The interior can also be rocked by the 400 Watt BeatsAudio system with three months free of satellite radio. The 10.25-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit can be configured according to a driver’s wishes and there are two USB ports.
The aforementioned Car-Net App-Connect is standard, and the Cold Weather Package is available; standard driver assist features include Adaptive Cruise Control, High Beam Control, and Lane Assist. The SEL begins at $24,415.
Jetta SEL Premium
At the top of the mountain is the SEL Premium with its 17-inch two-tone “Tornado Metallic” aluminum-alloy wheels, fog lamps, power leather seats, eight-inch infotainment screen, and navigation. The Cold Weather package will be included when it becomes available mid-year. The SEL Premium also features the R-Line’s rear bumper.
The SEL Premium starts at $26,945.
2019 Jetta SEL Premium. Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Power & Performance
Under the hood of the new Jetta is a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine complete with direct-injection. Billed as the “TSI” engine by VW, it sends a healthy 147 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque to the Jetta’s front wheels. Automatic transmission models come standard with a Start/Stop function which disables the engine during what would otherwise be extended idle times to improve fuel efficiency.
Warranty & Availability
The 2019 Jetta is covered by a bumper-to-bumper, new vehicle limited warranty of six years or 72,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Expect the new Jetta at VW dealers in the second quarter – destination fee on all models is $850.
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: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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Volvo Leads New Research To Improve Road Safety For Cyclists

Volvo Leads New Research To Improve Road Safety For Cyclists A new body of research is looking at ways to keep cyclists safer on the road.
Current data shows that fatal accidents involving a bicycle are on the rise.
The study is based on regulatory procedures for pedestrian head protection.
Swedish carmaker Volvo and top Swedish sports and safety brand POC are forming a partnership. We all know Volvo is a stickler for safety, so this comes as no surprise. However, their latest research focuses on protecting cyclists and improving road safety for all. So, how do they do it?
By developing the world’s first car-bike helmet crash test.
The new crash tests are based on current regulatory test procedures for pedestrian head protection. The tests are ongoing at Volvo’s renowned safety research facility in Gothenburg, Sweden.
Setting The Stage
I must admit, I’m not fond of cyclists on the actual road itself because of the safety risk. And I only loathe cyclists who lack discipline or those with no discernible idea about road safety. Otherwise, I have no beef sharing the tarmac with bicycle riders. Our two-wheeled, pedal-powered friends are working for a living just like you and I. They pay their fair share of taxes, and they have every right to hog the bicycle lane. Unfortunately, not everyone has the same warm feelings – I’m looking at you, Clarkson.
If you combine traffic gridlock, deadlines, and a grumbling stomach on the way to work on a cold and drizzly morning, we all know the result is utter chaos. And when you think about it, cyclists are the most vulnerable. A bicycle, for example, doesn’t have bumpers, airbags, or a steel body and chassis to protect the rider.
The latest Volvo and POC research project will benefit both drivers and riders, and will inevitably benefit all consumers in the end. This study will help POC make safer helmets and safety gear. On the other side of the spectrum, the research allows Volvo to develop a new array of vehicle safety features to protect cyclists and pedestrians alike.
“This project with POC is a good example of our pioneering spirit in safety,” said Malin Ekholm, head of the Volvo Cars Safety Centre and one of the company’s leading safety engineers. “We often develop new testing methods for challenging traffic scenarios.”
Volvo’s Cyclist Detection uses cameras and radar to warn the driver of an imminent collision with a cyclist. Photo: Volvo Cars.
Related: A brief history of the safety features in your car.
Road Safety For Cyclists: The Grim Reality
This latest study by Volvo and POC couldn’t have arrived at a better time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 1,000 bicyclists died in 2015, and there were 467,000 bicycle-related injuries in the same timeframe. More troubling are the results of a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the same year. The data shows a declining number in overall bicycle accidents, but there’s a catch: the number of fatal accidents increased by 12 percent.
However, it’s not rosy in other countries like the United Kingdom either. The results of a road casualties report by the UK Department for Transport in 2016 shows cyclists are 15 times more likely to be killed or fatally injured on Britain’s roads than motorists. Considering there are an average of 1.7 million people that cycle to work every day in the UK as of 2017, it’s only timely for Volvo and POC to conduct these deeper studies. One of these is to make a direct comparison between wearing a helmet and not when riding a bike.
Partners In Safety
To date, POC has sixty international awards for safety, innovation, and design. KTH Royal Institute of Technology, MIPS, and Autoliv are also participating in the project, which is partially financed by Vinnova. The results will be made publicly available in time.
“Much like Volvo Cars, safety is at the very center of our mission and drives all our ideas and innovations,” said Oscar Huss, Head of Product Development at POC. “By working closely with scientific leaders in the POC Lab we strive to lead the way in introducing new safety ideas.”
Specially-designed crash tests are ongoing at Volvo’s research facilities in Gothenburg, Sweden. The effort is part of a wider research project to understand the types of long-term injuries sustained by cyclists. Photo: Volvo Car Group.
Related: Keeping man’s best friend safe: the science behind pet safety in your car.
The Silver Lining
If you’re a cyclist, then what Volvo and POC are doing will benefit you in the future. In an effort to reduce fatalities and injuries, Volvo will use crash dummy heads wearing POC bike helmets. The dummy is mounted on a testing rig, then launched on different areas of the hood of a stationary Volvo car. The dummy head is thrown at different angles and speeds to gather any necessary and essential data.
“Certification standards are essential,” Huss said. “But they should never limit our willingness to look beyond their parameters to find better and more innovative ways to reduce the consequences of accidents.”
If you compare this with existing bike helmet testing procedures, the old method is as primitive as making tools out of stones and pieces of wood. Manufacturers test bicycle helmets by simply dropping the helmets from differing heights on a flat or angled surface, and that’s it. What’s interesting is how previous test procedures didn’t take into account potential accidents between cars and bicycles, which can exist on the road at any given moment.
During the tests, a technician mounts POC bike helmets worn by crash dummy heads on a rig. They are then launched towards different areas of the hood of a static Volvo car. Photo: Volvo Car Group.
Volvo Safety Technologies: Yesterday & Today
Using data from the bicycle helmet crash tests, Volvo can further develop its array of active safety technologies. Chief among those is Cyclist Detection. The system uses the vehicle’s camera and radar to detect cyclists, warning the driver of an imminent collision, and engaging the brakes if necessary. Inevitably, new safety technologies like this will (or should) trickle down to future cars in the interest of public safety. It was, after all, from Volvo that we receive the single greatest passive safety device in history.
Volvo engineer Nils Bohlin developed the three-point safety belt in 1958 after then Volvo president Gunnar Engellau lost a loved one in an accident. Bohlin’s groundbreaking design formed a “V” with the peak facing down to better secure a driver’s upper and lower body. It’s estimated that over one million lives have been saved as a result of Volvo waiving its patent rights.
“Our aim is not only to meet legal requirements or pass rating tests,” Ekholm said. “Instead, we go beyond ratings, using real traffic situations to develop technology that further improves safety.”
Alvin Reyes is the Associate Editor of Automoblog. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

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2019 Lexus ES 350 F Sport Review: Well-Balanced For The Daily Drive

2019 Lexus ES 350 F Sport Review: Well-Balanced For The Daily Drive 93Excellent 2019 Lexus ES 350 F SportOverall Impression Stylish and sleek.Powerful engine.Lots of standard tech.ProsComfortable Cabin Improved Handling ConsTouchscreen Interface The Lexus ES 350 has been a typical luxury sedan up until now, but it all changes for the 2019 model year. For one, the ES just got a lot more fun for driving enthusiasts. There’s a new F Sport version for 2019, which is a first for the ES. It also gets other updates that increase the ES 350’s luxury and functionality. We experienced these firsthand this week, as we’ve been driving the newly-redesigned, 2019 Lexus ES 350 F Sport.
What’s New For 2019
The Lexus ES 350 is fully redesigned for the seventh generation. It gets a more powerful V6 engine, upgraded technology and safety features, and an all-new F Sport trim. The front-wheel drive ES is built on Lexus’ Global Architecture–K (GA-K) platform. As a result, the 2019 ES is longer (+2.6 inches), lower (-0.2 inches), and wider (+1.8 inches) than the prior generation.
Available packages, along with the F Sport, include Premium, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury.
Features & Options: Connectivity & Safety
Standard features on the 2019 Lexus ES 350 F Sport ($44,035) include keyless entry and ignition, a sunroof, simulated leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control. On the electronic front, you get an eight-inch central infotainment display, Bluetooth, navigation (Scout GPS Link), a Wi-Fi hotspot (Lexus Enform), three USB ports (one front, two rear), and satellite radio.
Standard safety features include forward collision mitigation, dynamic radar cruise control (with road sign assist), lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, automatic high-beam assist, and parking sensors, among others.
The new-for-2019 F Sport comes with 19-inch wheels and chassis dampers from the Ultra Luxury package; a special grille and rear spoiler; aluminum interior trim pieces and sport front seats; special gauges, a unique analog clock, and active noise control. Navigation and a 17-speaker, Mark Levinson premium sound system ($1,920); blind spot and rear traffic alert ($1,065); and Triple Beam LED headlights ($1,515) were the only extra options on our tester.
Total MSRP including destination: 50,575. By comparison, the 2019 Lexus ES starts at $39,750, with the hybrid variant (ES 300h) starting at $41,560.
2019 Lexus ES 350 F Sport.
Interior Highlights: Inspired By History
Stepping inside the new Lexus ES 350 reveals a cabin with all the comfort you want in a luxury sedan. The leather upholstery is supple and the surfaces have the level of detail typical of Lexus models. The fit and finish is tight and Lexus made liberal use of soft-touch surfaces all throughout the cabin. From the driver’s seat, there is good all-around visibility for a sedan, and plenty of seat adjustments. In our test car, a power-adjustable steering column made it easy to set the perfect driving position.
The F Sport has an option for red seats and door panels for an even more sporty look. There’s also an all-new metallic trim that comes standard on the F Sport called Hadori Aluminum. Inspired by an ancient sword polishing process, Hadori Aluminum can appear three-dimensional, depending on how you look at it.
Technology abounds in the new ES 350. The 12-inch navigation and infotainment display is a highlight, as is the deep integration with voice commands. Verizon Wi-Fi is standard along with Lexus Enform Safety Connect for the first 10 years of ownership. The latter includes a stolen vehicle locator, emergency and roadside assistance, and automatic collision notification. As a bonus, Apple CarPlay is finally available.
2019 Lexus ES 350 F Sport interior layout.
Related: One the road with the lion of the Lexus den.
Interior Highlights: Nice For The Commute
What we don’t like is the hypersensitive touchpad interface Lexus uses. It’s not easy to operate, nor all that intuitive, especially when you are driving. Shutting off the A/C, for example, requires a visit to a menu screen using the touchpad located on the console. We did praise the volume knob, though. It feels like an old-school stereo receiver.
We used the ES 350 for commuting to Denver every day and arrived relaxed and ready for the day’s work. In the back, your passengers will have plenty of room and will be comfortable on longer trips. Rear legroom is even enough for six-foot passengers. The ES 350 would make a great car for realtors to haul clients in when house-hunting. The rear doors are wide and it’s easy to get in-and-out.
The ES offers up 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space with underfloor side pockets for smaller items.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
Powering every ES 350, including the new F Sport, is a 3.5-liter V6 producing 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft. of torque (up 34 horsepower from last year). The V6 comes paired to a new Direct Shift eight-speed automatic that replaces the previous six-speed. Compared to the six-speed, this new Direct Shift transmission offers a wider range of ratios. For instance, first gear in the six-speed was 3.30:1, while the new eight-speed offers a 5.51 first gear. A taller final drive ratio (2.56) helps return an EPA-estimated 22/31 city/highway and 25 combined mpg.
The 2019 Lexus ES 350 F Sport delivers on the open road, especially with its V6 engine.
Driving Dynamics: Making Quick Work of The Roads
Getting underway in the ES 350 revealed a V6 with a little more power than the outgoing model. When pushed hard, the luxury sedan’s power comes quick and smooth, no doubt thanks to the new transmission. It even sounds pretty good when you dig into it too, like when needing more power to pass slower traffic on the interstate.
The F Sport’s suspension is tuned for sport more than comfort, but it’s not too firm for the average family either. It has just enough firmness to make quick work of the tight mountains corners we encountered this week, but you won’t feel rattled on a long trip. The larger 19-inch alloy wheels also contribute to a firmer ride, especially on broken pavement, but won’t be an issue if the road is smooth.
On the F Sport model, an Adaptive Variable Suspension is available.
We made use of the manual paddle shifters in Sport S+ mode to extract a little more control over the car’s driving character. It’s no sport sedan, but you can have fun with it on the commute to work, or to play on the weekends. The F Sport trim also offers Eco, Normal, Sport S, and Custom modes to suit every driver in the family. If you are looking for safety, the ES 350 comes with plenty for peace of mind. For example, we unwittingly approached a parking barrier this week and the forward collision mitigation system stopped us before we hit the concrete.
The 2019 Lexus ES 350 F Sport hits 60 mph in 6.6 seconds.
Conclusion: F Sport or Otherwise
Altogether, the new updates increase the luxury and performance of the 2019 Lexus ES 350 over the outgoing model. We would recommend the F Sport if you want superior driving dynamics and want to have a bit more fun over the standard model. The F Sport offers a good blend of handling and performance, without sacrificing comfort. But the normal ES 350 sedan is still purposed for comfort, and offers isolation from the noisy world. It’s a car you won’t mind spending quality time in.
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 Lexus ES 350 F Sport Gallery

Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Octane Edition: Black Is The New Black

Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Octane Edition: Black Is The New Black The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Octane Edition goes for the ever popular “blacked out” look.
Octane Edition Chargers receive a Satin Black center stripe with Octane Red accents on the edges.
The Charger Hellcat is quickest and most powerful sedan in the world with its supercharged Hemi.
Dodge doesn’t do subtle. If cars were firearms, in a world of sniper rifles and machine guns, Dodges would be blunderbusses: crude but highly effective in the short term. The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is a good example of this – shoot, anything with the Hellcat moniker qualifies. This latest Charger variant has a new paint scheme as well.
Yeah, it’s just as subtle as the drivetrain.
Plum Crazy Color Schemes
Officially, it’s called the “Charger SRT Hellcat Octane Edition.” It features a “blacked-out” look along with some features not previously available on Charger SRT Hellcats. You can get it any color you want, as long as those two colors are either Pitch Black or White Knuckle. Either color features a full-length, Satin Black center stripe with Octane Red accent tracers on each edge. Good to see Mopar is keeping up the goofy paint names tradition.
Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat: American Iron
Basically this is the same “old” Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat, but that still makes it the most powerful sedan on the planet. Yes, something like a BMW M5 would probably beat it around a given track (maybe) (that’s a big maybe), but in terms of acceleration, outright speed, and dyno numbers, you’re looking at the top of the mountain right here.
Yes, there are non-Hellcat and non-Hemi versions available, but would you be interested in those? Us neither. Why? Simple: Good ol’ Murican horsepower and displacement – and lots of both. The supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8 puts out 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft. of torque, which is, technically speaking, like putting a suspension on a landmine. Set it off, and you will find yourself some place else in next to no time. That mill is hooked up to a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic tranny with steering wheel shift paddles – one of the few nods to modernity.
There’s a new grille for 2019 that is more than a pretty face. It has dual inlets feeding cooler outside air to the engine bay to strengthen performance. On top of the grille, there are four race-inspired tools now standard on the Hellcat.
Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Octane Edition in White Knuckle. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Related: Dodge is honoring veterans with these special Chargers and Challengers.
Fabulous Four
First is Launch Assist. This gizmo uses wheel speed sensors to watch for and mitigate any driveline damaging wheel hop at launch. In a matter of milliseconds, Launch Assist modifies the engine torque so you regain full grip. Next comes Line Lock. Old school denizens of The Digs like me know what this is, but in case you don’t, a Line Lock engages only the front brakes so you can hold your car (in this case a Charger SRT Hellcat) stationary, but leave the rear wheels free for a glorious, tire-melting, smoke-producing burnout.
This helps because it heats up the rears and cleans off any gunk.
Number three of the fab four is the After-Run Chiller. This guy keeps cooling the supercharger/charge air cooler after the engine is shut off. Sounds like a good idea, no? And finally, there is Torque Reserve. This closes a bypass valve to pre-fill the supercharger while managing fuel flow and spark advance to balance engine rpm and torque. It works so well that it generates a reserve of torque for delivery upon acceleration. In other words, three-two-one-go! The Hellcat drops all 707 ponies directly onto the pavement, and you are gone baby gone.
Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Octane Edition in Pitch Black. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Related: Every Mopar muscle enthusiast needs this book.
The Octane Treatment
Assuming any of the competition gets a good look at you, they’ll see how the Octane Edition has this whole “blacked-out” theme goin’ on. There’s black exterior badging for the grille, decklid, and fenders. The decklid spoiler is also Satin Black. The massive 20 x 9.5-inch aluminum-forged Cross Brace wheels are, surprise, painted low-gloss Black.
Yes, you’ll recognize these wheels from the Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack 1320.
The Cross Brace wheels feature knurled bead seats to minimize tire slip on the wheel under extreme acceleration, which on any other car would be superfluous, but seem like a necessity on this one. Yes, it can stop, thankfully. There’s an impressive Brembo brake package with six-piston calipers up front and four-pots at the rear. They are even painted Octane Red.
The interior gets the business with SRT Performance seats and houndstooth inserts, a groovy throwback. The SRT Hellcat logo gets stitched into the seat backs, and there’s red accent stitching throughout the cabin. The instrument panel badge is a black-on-black deal and the seat belts are red. The instrument panel and console bezels are finished in “Dark Brushed II” (obviously better than the Dark Brushed I instrument panel doodads).
Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Octane Edition interior layout. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Pricing & Availability
The 2019 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Octane Edition carries an MSRP $1,495. Yes, that is the price for the new appearance package, not the Hellcat itself. Dream on, kid! Plan for at least $68,000 starting for the whole car. However, if you want an Octane Edition, get in line now. It is available for order only through the end of the model year. It will start arriving at Dodge dealerships this fall.
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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Automoblog Book Garage: The Complete Book of Classic Chevrolet Muscle Cars

Automoblog Book Garage: The Complete Book of Classic Chevrolet Muscle Cars

In my heyday at Sioux Falls Ford, I once took in a mint 2006 Chevy Impala SS on trade. I can still see that shiny red paint in the South Dakota summer sun, glistening vibrantly as I tagged and marked its arrival into our inventory.
Not surprisingly, it was sold a short time later but not before I had a chance to drive it on a routine run to our sister dealership two exits up I-29. The 5.3 engine under the hood spoke volumes, but it was more than that; it was the way the steering wheel felt and how nice it rode.
Pennies & Dimes
Chevrolet mastered the affordable performance car, first seen in the now famous 1955 Chevrolet. A few years later, The Beach Boys dominated the street with their precious 409, stating how they “saved their pennies and their dimes.” And wouldn’t you know it, Chevy made similar waves forty some years later with the aforementioned 2006 Impala SS.
The Complete Book of Classic Chevrolet Muscle Cars 1955-1974 shows how Chevy was first at the helm of this culturally significant automotive shift. As Chevy breathed performance into everyday vehicles, no longer would cars be mundane appliances, but rather extensions of our personalities. The book documents how American society was changed by this new approach to automobiles, and how Chevrolet played a major role in building the nation’s car culture.
The Complete Book of Classic Chevrolet Muscle Cars 1955-1974 is a definite must for any Chevy fan, but really for any car fan.
Chevrolet’s Impala SS debuted early in 1961 along with the 409. Most Super Sports built that first year featured 348 V-8s, as demonstrated here. Notice the absence of an engine badge on the front fender. Photo: Mike Mueller.
Author

Mike Mueller has worked as a freelance automotive photojournalist since 1991. A lifetime car enthusiast, Mueller has written and photographed more than 25 automotive and truck history books and contributed photography to dozens more. Among his long list of titles are Motorbooks’ Chevy Chevelle 50 Years, The Complete Book of Corvette, and The Complete Book of Classic Dodge and Plymouth Muscle.
The Complete Book of Classic Chevrolet Muscle Cars 1955-1974 is available through Amazon and Motorbooks.
The Complete Book of Classic Chevrolet Muscle Gallery

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Nissan, Tennessee Board of Regents Partner For Brighter Future Through Education

Nissan, Tennessee Board of Regents Partner For Brighter Future Through Education

This past November, I was at the Nashville International Auto Show at the Music City Center. As the weekend progressed, I met several people from nearby Smyrna where Nissan has a tremendous presence. One gentleman described Smyrna as a “gem of a place” and said Nissan’s involvement there was directly responsible for it being a “great city.”
His belief was simple: when manufacturing is strong, our communities are strong. Such sentiments embody the quintessential American mindset, and such sentiments are as delicate as they are promising.
Restoration & Education
Two years ago, a baseball field in Detroit’s Woobridge neighborhood was reopened after Ford and the United Auto Workers donated nearly two million dollars to the project. The dedication of William Clay Ford Field highlighted the importance of investing in our local communities and serving the people who live there.
The loss of American jobs is partly responsible for the abandonment of our parks, ball fields, and neighborhoods – and not just here in Detroit – but everywhere. Interestingly enough, the restoration of those jobs can help bring about the sweeping change needed to restore those things.
Recently, I would like to believe a victory was achieved for the everyday American worker. On Friday, March 31st, Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam and Tennessee Board of Regents Chancellor Flora Tydings joined Nissan officials to formally open the Tennessee College of Applied Technology at Murfreesboro’s Smyrna Campus and Nissan Training Center. The modern campus offers numerous programs to prepare Tennessee students and Nissan employees for a variety of careers, including advanced manufacturing.
“This is a true partnership between the State of Tennessee and Nissan,” said Gov. Haslam. “Our College of Applied Technology at Murfreesboro needed more space and equipment to serve Tennesseans who want to learn skills for a new or improved career.”
Photo: Nissan North America.
Purposeful Programs
The 162,000-square-foot center is a public-private partnership between Nissan and the Tennessee Board of Regents, operating as an extension of TCAT-Murfreesboro and jointly occupied by Nissan and the College of Applied Technology. Classes offered include automotive technology, industrial electrical maintenance, machine tool technology, and welding technology. The curriculum for each directly matches industry and workforce demands, meaning current and prospective workers will learn the valuable skills necessary for success in Nissan’s facilities or with other employers.
Gov. Haslam underscored the importance of such focused education.
“Nissan needed a new center to train its own employees and those of its suppliers – the new Smyrna facility, which is both a public TCAT open to all and a Nissan Training Center, was a perfect solution,” he said. “It’s also an important milestone in our Drive to 55 – to equip at least 55 percent of Tennesseans with a college degree or certificate by 2025.”
Other programs of study include automation, robotics, and leadership.
“We are constantly looking for new ways to equip current and future employees with the skills and knowledge needed to operate a 21st century manufacturing plant,” said John Martin, Senior Vice President, Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management and Purchasing, Nissan North America.
Photo: Nissan North America.

Community Pillars
The Tennessee Board of Regents governs the state’s 13 Community Colleges and 27 Colleges of Applied Technology. Students gain the academic knowledge needed for associates degrees and for transfer to other universities where they pursue baccalaureate and graduate degrees. The Tennessee Board of Regents is composed of 18 members appointed from across the state with Gov. Haslam as the chair.
Nissan’s operations in Middle Tennessee include the Smyrna vehicle and battery assembly plants, two powertrain assembly plants in Decherd, and the company’s North American headquarters in Franklin. Nissan Smyrna has a production capacity of 640,000 vehicles annually, and the plant employs about 8,400 workers.
“Nissan’s workforce in Smyrna and our other U.S. facilities is our greatest asset,” Martin said. “This collaboration with the State of Tennessee allows us to make an investment in our employees and our community, and secure the continued growth of our company.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

Photos & Source: Nissan North America.

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2017 Ford GT: One Car, Five Personalities

2017 Ford GT: One Car, Five Personalities

You know, you really got to hand it to Ford. They’re not messing around with the GT. True, it’s not a moon-shot hypercar like McLaren’s P1 or the La Ferrari, but it’s not exactly a car to be trifled with. And, unlike it’s racing ancestor, it’s performance is not 80% big engine (like the Mk. 2).
The current Ford GT is, through and through, a well thought out supercar, complete with a competition variant.
Evolving Performance
There was a time, back around 1970, where supercars, by and large, were a real pain to live with. Many compromises were forced upon the owner of, say, a Maserati Bora. You sat at an uncomfortable angle. Reliability was iffy. Air conditioning? Well, they had a knob that said that. Visibility was only good in one direction (forward). Performance was great but drivability could be tortuously bad.
Fast forward to the present day, and the 2017 Ford GT has none of these issues. In terms of everyday usability, it’s hard to distinguish the GT from a Mustang. Yes, the GT cranks out 647 horsepower and is built from carbon fiber, but it’s easy to drive in a variety of conditions. For example, the GT has this nifty little trick up its sleeve with five selectable driving modes. This is sort of Ford’s equivalent of Ferrari’s manettino. A bunch of suspension, engine, aero, and differential settings are stored in an on-board computer and, at the punch of a button, you can access and change them on the fly.
“Switching the setting changes electronic, mechanical, and aerodynamic elements,” explained Nick Terzes, Ford GT Engineering Supervisor.
Leveraging their racing experience, Ford Performance gave each of the modes a unique instrument cluster display, so not only do you know which mode you are in at a glance, but the display also prioritizes which information elements you see to augment the overall driving experience. So you, the happy Ford GT owner, can go from a day at the track, to tooling home through light traffic and your car can handle it all at the flick of a switch. Or, more accurately, the turn of a knob on the GT’s steering wheel.
The Ford GT was introduced at the North American International Auto Show, January 12th, 2015. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Normal Mode
When the 2017 Ford GT is in Normal mode, all the settings are oriented around everyday driving situations. Ground clearance is set at 120 millimeters, so you won’t gronk the front end as easily. Throttle and transmission calibrations are set for “standard driving,” while the traction and stability control systems are set specifically and cannot be adjusted. At 90 mph, the rear wing deploys automatically for greater downforce, returning to its stowed position at 81 mph.
The wing still deploys as an airbrake if the car’s sensors detect aggressive braking.
You can also choose a comfort suspension setting in both Normal and Wet modes. Going with the comfort setting softens the car’s ride on bumpy roads by fine-tuning compression and rebound without compromising overall control.
Wet Mode
Here the Ford GT’s ride height and other systems remain in their default, Normal setting, with the notable omission of throttle control calibration. In Wet mode, the throttle control is tweaked to limit slipping and sliding, giving the GT greater stability in potentially dangerous elements. In other words, you won’t be spinning the tires and slewing the car all over the place like a ham-fisted teenager.
Sport Mode
Sport mode (or as we like to call it, Automoblog mode) provides snappier throttle response. It’s calibrated so the GT’s twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine and anti-lag system are as responsive as a naturally aspirated mill. Developed on the Le Mans-winning Ford GT race car, the anti-lag system keeps the turbo spinning so you, the lucky GT driver, has boost on demand. In Sport mode you still get 120 millimeters of ground clearance, but everything else has been tweaked towards the upper right hand of the performance envelope.
Comfort? That’s gone from the available settings. But, and this is a big but, AdvanceTrac stability and traction control are now driver-adjustable so you technically get three additional settings. The GT will now give you more slip, yaw, and oversteer so you can push harder and slide the car around more (i.e. have more fun). Things get more aggressive in Sport mode; slight throttle changes result in faster acceleration, and gear changes fire off faster with clutch engagement happening very quickly for max acceleration.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.

Track Mode
After Sport mode, we come to Track mode. Ford says thusly: “Track mode is absolutely hardcore and optimized strictly for race conditions.” And they are not even close to joking. Put the transmission into “park” and turn the knob to activate hydraulics that drop ride height another 50 millimeters. Spring rates go up and damping goes to the firmest setting. The rear wing deploys and, at the nose, the aerodynamic openings close for all-out downforce.
All of this happens in under two seconds and, come on, will probably look and sound really cool!
V-Max Mode
And finally, we come to V-Max mode. V-Max is a term you usually find in the aerospace world and it means, reasonably enough, “Velocity Maximum,” or in a more colloquial form: “As fast as you can go before the whole shebang flies apart at the seams.”
Obviously, and this goes without saying, but I have to say it because there are a ridiculous number of knuckle-dragging Neanderthals out there: V-Max mode is only, only, ONLY for closed circuit track use. Don’t be a complete chimp and use it on the street. Okay?
V-Max mode tunes everything to make the Ford GT go as fast as possible. It’s Chuck Yeager time. Go punch a hole in the sky without leaving the ground. You can’t get into V-Max mode on the go, however. Like Track mode, going into V-Max requires the transmission be in park. Ride height stays the same as Track mode, but all aero elements are stowed to minimize drag.
Stability controls remain active to help ensure the car moves forward in a straight line and, without that rear wing up, you’re going to want as much stability as Mr. Newton can provide without Mr. Bernoulli’s assistance.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.

Launch Control
The Ford GT also includes an improved launch control system for optimum traction and the perfect start every time. Launch control is triggered via steering wheel controls in the instrument panel menu. Ford cautions how the launch control is “designed for track use,” so be a good boy or girl and only use it there. The launch control system can be used in all of the available driving modes, except for Wet.
When activated, a white “LC” shows up on the instrument cluster. From there, the driver holds down the brake with their left foot and mashes – okay “fully depresses” the gas – with their right foot. When the car is ready, the “LC” light turns from white to green, you lift your left foot off the brake, and BANG you’re down the straightaway, ricky-tick!
We, the long serving Automoblog staff, would like to offer our services to Ford to really wring out the new GT and get them some top notch feedback. We’ll take one in red, one in white, and one in blue. I’ll take the blue one. Ford reps, please contact our Managing Editor, Carl Anthony, at 1 Automoblog Tower for shipping info. In the meantime, the graphic below from Ford explains more about the individual driving modes.
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.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.

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