Automotive

2019 Cadillac CT6 V-Sport: A New Species Emerges

2019 Cadillac CT6 V-Sport: A New Species Emerges Cadillac has unveiled the 2019 CT6 V-Sport, the first-ever V-Performance version of its top sedan. The new CT6 V-Sport actually coincides with an ongoing makeover of the entire CT6 lineup; said makeover will usher in the design cues first seen on the Escala Concept. With the new CT6 V-Sport, Cadillac is definitely swinging for the fences.
“The CT6 V-Sport was developed for driving enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds: a high-performance sports sedan and a luxury car with all the comforts and technology that come with it,” said Lyndon Lie, CT6 Chief Engineer.
Power & Performance
The CT6 V-Sport is not the car you want to make angry at a stop light. Under the hood is a new 4.2-liter Twin Turbo V8, Cadillac’s first engine of this kind in its history. It’s described as a “clean-sheet design” in a performance-oriented and mass-efficient package. This is best seen in what Cadillac refers to as the “hot V” residing at the center of the engine. The setup is another first for Cadillac.
The configuration transposes the conventional layout of the cylinder heads’ intake and exhaust systems, with the turbochargers mounted at the top of the engine, or “in the valley between the heads.” This, according to Cadillac, cuts turbo lag and reduces the engine’s overall packaging size. There are a lot of things one could say about the CT6 V-Sport but the engine is one of the car’s strongest character traits.
“It is the centerpiece of the new CT6 V-Sport, an engaging sport sedan infused with the DNA of Cadillac’s world-renowned and championship-winning motorsports program,” explained Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. “Cadillac V-Sport is the embodiment of our passion to deliver an exhilarating driving experience without compromises.”
Horsepower is estimated at or around the 550 range, with torque coming in at about 630 lb-ft. A mechanically-controlled limited-slip rear differential increases traction and performance, especially while on the track.
“With its lightweight architecture, an all-new Cadillac Twin Turbo V8, coupled with the tightened suspension and revised AWD torque split, we’ve enhanced the CT6 to be well-balanced and capable in all conditions,” Lie added.
Photo: Cadillac.
Transmission Tech
The new engine is matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission (10L90 Hydra-Matic). The 7.39 overall gear ratio spread enhances off-the-line performance but lowers engine speeds on the highway for efficiency. Narrow steps between the gear ratios help create maximum power at nearly any speed.
Ride & Handling
Cadillac didn’t give many details but expect an enhanced variation of GM’s evergreen Magnetic Ride Control. The steering has been “re-mapped” for more dynamic feedback, while an Active Rear Steer feature was added. There is also a list of “track-focused” stability controls, although Cadillac did not elaborate as to what they were. The V-Sport is modified with “specific suspension tuning” for improved roll control and cornering capability. Cadillac again did not elaborate, unfortunately.
19-inch Brembo brakes were developed specifically for the CT6, complete with performance linings and air deflectors that direct air to cool the brakes during aggressive driving.
Photo: Cadillac.
Connectivity & Technology
V-Sport aside, CT6 buyers can expect a lot (and we mean a lot) of in-vehicle tech. Cadillac’s in-car system reacts similar to a smartphone, so getting onto it should be relatively easy. The system’s central display is a 10-inch diagonal interface and can be updated over time to meet a customer’s connectivity needs, should they change. It leverages the cloud and an available 4G LTE connection to enable a number of personalized infotainment choices like navigation or news. The rear-seat infotainment system even has media inputs through USB, HDMI, or Wi-Fi connections to a phone.
Other tech features for the CT6 include the Rear Camera Mirror which has zoom and tilt functions, and a Surround Vision Recorder that provides 360 degrees of recording when the security system is activated. Naturally, the Cadillac CT6 has a wide range of driver aids like Front Pedestrian Braking, Rear Pedestrian Detection, and Night Vision.
Pricing & Availability
Cadillac has not disclosed either, just that the CT6 V-Sport is coming for the 2019 model year. The vehicle will be built at Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly in Hamtramck, Michigan.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
2019 Cadillac CT6 V-Sport Gallery

Photos & Source: Cadillac.

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Inside The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback

Inside The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Hot hatch fever is going around and Toyota has caught the bug! Meet the 2019 Corolla Hatchback in advance of its debut at the upcoming New York International Auto Show. Toyota says the Corolla Hatchback has “flair extraordinaire” and indeed that seems to be the case, especially in that bright blue. The new Corolla Hatchback has Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa connectivity, a revised sport-tuned suspension, and a host of advanced safety features.
Platform & Architecture
The 2019 Corolla Hatchback resides on the automaker’s TNGA C platform, also referred to as Toyota’s New Global Architecture. The compact structure employs a mixture of adhesives, spot welding, and additional bracing to boost fuel economy and on-road stability. The platform makes use of aluminum and high- and ultra-high tensile strength steels, improving torsional rigidity by 60 percent when compared to its predecessor, the Corolla iM. Likewise, the new hatchback is lower by an inch, wider by 1.2 inches, and longer by 1.5 inches.
Toyota uses a number of sound-absorbing materials, sealants, foams, resonator ribs, and silencers to reduce unwanted cabin noise. The actual hatch is made from Toyota’s Super Olefin Polymer and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene – both materials are lightweight to help with fuel efficiency. The hatch was moved 14 degrees forward for a more sporty look.
Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Power & Performance
The new Corolla Hatchback should be a responsive little machine with its 2.0-liter Dynamic-Force inline four engine. Complete with direct injection, it’s smaller and lighter than the 1.8-liter it replaces. A more rigid crank case with an integrated stiffener, a lighter resin cylinder head, and a ribbed oil pan further reduce unwanted noise and vibrations.
The engine, known in Toyota-speak as M20A-FKS, has the automaker’s latest D-4S fuel-injection technology. The system uses high-pressure direct-injection and low-pressure Port Fuel Injection, and can adapt the injection cycle based on driving conditions so ideal combustion is always achieved. The engine also features Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence) on the exhaust side and VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence by Electric motor) on the intake side. VVT-iE uses an electric motor instead of oil pressure to control the variable valve timing. Together, the systems enhance power output and fuel mileage, but cut emissions.
Although horsepower and torque figures are forthcoming, Toyota put a laundry list of work into the new engine. For example, the valve nip angle has been enlarged and the stroke is longer. Toyota says these changes, along with laser clad valve seats, provide higher compression and air intake volumes. Similarly, the pistons with their rounded top surface and slanted side walls reduce knocking and friction, but keep compression high. Toyota also notes the high-strength steel connecting rods, lighter timing chain, and how each cylinder receives three separate oil jets.
Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Transmission Tech
Like the engine, the Dynamic-Shift CVT received an extensive amount of work. It emulates a 10-speed, has a sport mode and paddle shifters, and comes with a slick feature known as a “launch gear.” Toyota says this helps in lower gear ratios where belt efficiency is typically poor in a CVT. Essentially, the transmission utilizes something called “gear drive” for stronger acceleration from a stop. The belt angle was narrowed and the pulley diameters reduced, creating 20 percent quicker shifts.
Drivers can also opt for a six-speed manual gearbox with downshift rev-matching control.
Ride & Handling
The car’s front MacPherson setup has been tweaked – i.e. updated bound stopper clearance and stabilizer locations – while other modifications include a revised coil spring rate and damping force. At the rear are updated shock absorbers and springs, and like the front, the geometry is slightly modified. Lower arm locations have moved for improved toe-in angles at higher speeds, and the shock absorbers have moved forward for better cargo capacity.
Toyota also took measures to reduce friction (by 40 percent) in all the sliding parts.
Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
In-Car Technology
A high-resolution, eight-inch multimedia touchscreen houses the vehicle settings, audio controls, navigation, smartphone functions, and the Entune 3.0 apps. The premium Entune package adds an eight-speaker, 800-watt JBL stereo with Clari-Fi, voice recognition, navigation, and various search and connect features. The JBL stereo is really cool with its A-Pillar mounted tweeters and 6.7-inch door subwoofers. Wireless phone charging is a nice added bonus.
The second generation of Toyota Safety Sense is also standard.
In Person & Availability
The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback will arrive this summer with the pricing information due in the near future. Expect to see it, in the meantime, at the 2018 New York International Auto Show, which opens to the public on Friday, March 30th.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Gallery

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

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Ford & Mahindra To Develop SUVs, Electric Vehicles & Connected Car Technologies

Ford & Mahindra To Develop SUVs, Electric Vehicles & Connected Car Technologies Ford Motor Company and the Mahindra Group have signed five agreements to develop new SUVs and small electric vehicles. Ford and Mahindra announced their strategic partnership in September of 2017, saying both companies were focusing on mobility programs, connected vehicle initiatives, and electrification strategies. The partnership will also explore sourcing and commercial efficiencies, and product development in general. Ford hopes to gain traction in India as well, an emerging automotive market.
“Ford is committed to offering the best vehicles, technologies, and services that fit the lifestyles and preferences of Indian consumers,” said Jim Farley, Ford Executive Vice President and President of Global Markets.
Joint Development Plans

Under these latest initiatives, Mahindra and Ford will co-develop a midsize SUV both companies can sell independently as separate brands. The forthcoming SUV will be built on a Mahindra platform but both will explore sharing powertrain portfolios. The two companies will also examine the possibility of developing a compact SUV and an electric vehicle, along with a range of connected car technologies.
“Listening to our customers and incorporating their future needs is the core premise of this collaboration,” Farley added. “With utility vehicles and electrification as key focus areas, we are glad to see the progress our two companies have made.”
Ford EcoSport, Goa, India. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Continued Expansion
Overall, the strategic alliance will leverage Ford’s global reach and Mahindra’s scale in India. Ford entered India in 1995 and remains one of the country’s largest exporters. India is also the second-largest Ford employee base globally, with more than 14,000 working across the Ford India or Global Business Services operations in New Delhi, Chennai, and Coimbator. Likewise, Mahindra has lead the utility vehicles segment in India for seven decades. The Mumbai-based manufacturer owns a majority stake in the Ssangyong Motor Company in Korea, and has invested in ridesharing platforms in the United States.
“Both teams are working together on joint development areas in keeping with industry requirements and leveraging mutual strengths,” explained Dr. Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd. “We are excited about the synergies unveiled through this collaboration and the potential opportunities it will bring.”
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company, Mahindra.

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Black Is The New Black: GMC Special Editions Coming

Black Is The New Black: GMC Special Editions Coming GMC fans will receive a new trim package later this year. The 2019 Terrain and Acadia Black Editions give buyers a little extra flare from the factory. The GMC Black Editions arose after company officials reviewed internal data showing roughly one in five new SUV buyers spends extra money to personalize their vehicle.
“The new Terrain and Acadia Black Editions perfectly capture the identity of the GMC brand by offering a bold and confident exterior appearance,” explained Duncan Aldred, Vice President of Global GMC. “They give our customers more choices within the premium SUV segment to distinguish their vehicle and themselves.”
As the name would suggest, the Black Editions are characterized by their darkened exterior treatments.
Terrain Black Edition
Available on SLE and SLT grades, the package includes 19-inch gloss black aluminum wheels and a darkened grille insert. There are black mirror caps, roof rails, and badging, along with other exterior accents. The 2019 GMC Terrain Black Edition will be offered in five colors: Ebony Twilight Metallic, Summit White, Graphite Gray Metallic, and Satin Steel Metallic. A new Sedona Metallic will be available later on.
Acadia Black Edition
Available on SLT grades, the package features 20-inch machined aluminum wheels with black accents, a black grille insert, and black headlamp and taillamp details. Similar to the Terrain, the Acadia Black Edition comes in five colors: Ebony Twilight Metallic, Summit White, and White Frost Tricoat. Dark Sky Metallic and Smokey Quartz Metallic are new for 2019.
Pricing & Availability
The GMC Black Editions will be available this summer. GMC has not yet announced pricing, although expect it to be competitive relative to other special edition SUVs on the market. GMC crossovers were up 19 percent in February alone, with the Terrain posting a 17 percent year-over-year increase, and the Acadia was up 22 percent.
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.
Photo & Source: GMC.

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These Very Stylish Infiniti Vehicles Are Headed To The Big Apple

These Very Stylish Infiniti Vehicles Are Headed To The Big Apple Infiniti will roll into the New York International Auto Show with two specially-equipped SUVs. The 2019 QX60 and QX80 Limited will have more premium appointments than their non-Limited counterparts, and will serve to bolster sales for both product lines. Infiniti has been making the rounds on this year’s auto show circuit, showcasing their SUVs in particular.
The automaker says the Limited versions of the QX60 and QX80 have treatments that were “designed to make a statement.” Here is a rundown of what those treatments are – it’s up to you if they actually make a statement.
2019 QX60 Limited
The QX60, already one of Infiniti’s top sellers, receives a dark chrome front grille and fog lamp finishers in its Limited skin. The roof rails and cross bar have a darker coat of premium paint, and the rear bumper is covered in a gloss black tint. A “Limited” rear badge denotes this QX60 from the rest of the pack as it rides on 20-inch dark aluminum-alloy wheels.
Luxury treatments on the inside include leather-wrapped grab handles, dark silver wood accents, and a black headliner and pillars. All three rows feature a stone-colored semi-aniline leather with quilting, perforation, and contrast stitching and piping. It even comes with special floor and cargo mats with metal logos. Why? Because Limited!
Like all QX60s, the Limited is powered by a 3.5-liter V6, creating 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft. of torque.
2019 QX60 Limited. Photo: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.
2019 QX80 Limited
Drivers who demand large and luxurious will likely opt for the QX80 Limited. This big mother rides on dark machine-finished, 22-inch forged aluminum-alloy wheels. Note the stainless steel running boards with rubber grips so drivers can actually get inside the vehicle.
And once inside, Infiniti says the “resemblance to a modern luxury space is purely intentional.” Thank goodness because we at this publication look poorly on automakers who unwittingly make their vehicles nice inside. That said, the 2019 QX80 Limited will feature two-tone semi-aniline leather and Alcantara-appointed seats, which come with their own special quilting, contrast piping, and stitching. The steering wheel and shift knob are leather-wrapped and matte silver open-pore Ash wood runs throughout. There’s even “branded welcome lightning” becasue Limited.
Those with a growing family may appreciate the available seating for seven. In this configuration, the second row has captain’s chairs whereas the third row becomes a bench. Also for the family, an available Theater Package has headrest screens for rear passengers who want to play a game or binge watch a show.
The 5.6-liter V8 creates 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft. of torque, and powers either the rear or both axles, the latter being known as “All-Mode 4WD.” The four-wheel drive system operates via a dial on the center console. Infiniti says this provides four-wheel traction when conditions require and off-road capability when the driver needs it.
2019 QX80 Limited. Photo: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.
In Person & Availability
These “Limited” machines will be on display at the 2018 New York International Auto Show, which opens to the public on March 30th. They are expected to arrive at Infiniti dealerships beginning this spring and summer, with pricing info available at that time.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
2019 QX60 Limited Gallery

2019 QX80 Limited Gallery

Photos & Source: Infiniti Motor Company Ltd.

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Letter From The UK: The British Pothole Crisis

Letter From The UK: The British Pothole Crisis
As drivers we are admonished by our leaders to do better and be mindful of all the road safety rules and regulations. Commit a minor misdemeanour, however innocently or accidentally, and a camera has your number or a policeman pulls you over and your billfold is suddenly, painfully, lighter. That’s how it works here on the British Isles and I daresay it is the same in the USA.
Big Promises
Successive UK governments (motto: If you can’t fight, wear a big hat) have made road safety a top priority. This is as it should be but, like a boasting bully, they scarcely ever follow through when it comes to supporting the automotive infrastructure. In short, we are supposed to drive better but we have to do it on increasingly inferior roads.
In the UK, road maintenance is carried out by two different agencies. Local or regional town and country councils must maintain the minor roads and The Highways Agency must maintain the arterial routes, motorways, and expressways.
Friends, it just ain’t happening.
A Bit Of History
When cars were invented, it didn’t take long for governments to realise there was money in it for them. As vehicles improved the requirement of better roads became greater and it is the driver who paid. Our motoring taxes work like this: A substantial amount of the cost of a gallon of fuel is made up of not one, but two, taxes. When we buy a new car, part of the cost is tax. When we insure it there is tax to pay, and every year thereafter we have to pay another tax known as Vehicle Excise Duty (VED).
The name changes from time to time but, historically, VED has always been known as “Road Tax.” The motorist who pays expects that money to be used to maintain the roads. These days, the government don’t see it that way and trouser the cash to spend on diversity training or lavish lunches in both our Houses of Parliament.
The result is that drivers pay more and get less. Sound familiar?
Pothole Crisis
The number one gripe among British drivers is the pothole. We have more holes in our roads than the moon has craters. Driving on the surface of the moon is a luxury we can only dream of. Thanks to literally decades of under-investment, some of our roads aren’t much better than Peruvian goat tracks. In fact, goats steer clear. The backlog of repairs runs into the many BILLIONS of our British Pounds and we have passed the point of no return.
Sure, the “authorities” will tell you that every year a couple of million potholes are repaired. This is largely true but it is money wasted because the repairs are often so inferior that as soon as there’s a frost or heavy rain, the repair material pops out again to form more dangerous gravel on the side of the road. Potholes are like those hardy weeds that grow in your yard; those things just keep on coming back.
The solution is clear to all except those who have their heads buried ostrich-like in the sand. Every year more and more cars appear on our roads. Wear and tear of surfaces is inevitable. This is why a full and comprehensive road programme is required. Instead of patching, remake. Instead of repairing, renew.
We, the motorists of Britain, are not holding our breath.
Winter conditions can have an adverse impact on a nation’s roadways. For example, in the State of Michigan, a significant portion of the MDOT’s annual maintenance budget is dedicated to pothole repair – over 8 million alone in fiscal year 2017. According to MDOT, potholes are caused when moisture seeps into the pavement, then freezes, expands and thaws, creating a gap in the pavement. Photo: Mircea Ploscar.
Road Casualties
This writer has no figures as to how many accidents are caused by potholes; that it happens though is certainly true. Potholes that are severe can at best blowout tires and at worst damage suspension. That’s an accident waiting to happen right there. The aftermath of road crashes costs the UK economy in excess of £15.6 billion every year. Where do you think that money could be better spent?
It doesn’t stop there. Our current driving test is, to be fair, pretty comprehensive, but more could be done. That we could help reduce new driver risk in the first six months of solo driving is a priority, and one of the aspects that pertains is pothole awareness. A new driver will not know what to expect when a wheel drops into a chasm until it’s too late.
And Finally
When a car is damaged by a pothole we may choose to claim it on our auto insurance. Insurers don’t like customers claiming; they take it personally. Thus some motorists accept the financial hit and pay up themselves, then try and claim back the money from the organisation responsible for the road maintenance.
It is possible; you can make a claim and win, but it’s a Stygian hell of malevolence that awaits. There is nothing more labyrinthine and sloth-like than a local government department. Yet, how else can a taxpayer penalise the people he pays to do a job if not through litigation? Otherwise it’s all just highway robbery.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite
Cover Photo: Jacob Ode.

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Mercedes-AMG Special Editions Arrive This Summer

Mercedes-AMG Special Editions Arrive This Summer

Mercedes and their in-house hot rod shop, AMG, have announced a run of special edition models. In this case there are three of them: The AMG GT C Roadster Edition 50, the Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet Ocean Blue Edition, and the AMG Performance Studio Package for the Mercedes-AMG C43, Coupe and Cabriolet.
I know, it’s kind of odd to consider, since I always think of AMG versions as already being their special editions, but no. These are actually special, special editions.
AMG GT C Roadster Edition 50
First off the block is the AMG GT C Roadster Edition 50, which gets a special equipment package. The AMG Roadster is a special version of the AMG Coupe, which is both a very competent car and rather attractive, a rare thing to say about German cars. This roadster is called “Edition 50” because, surprise, they are only making 500 cars worldwide. But only 50 of them are coming to America, so I guess that makes the name okay.
Oh, and it’s also the 50th anniversary of AMG, which was founded in 1967.
The GT C Roadster Edition 50 can be spotted by a special paint, designo Graphite Grey Magno. There are black chrome accents on the side skirt trim and front splitter, along with trim strips in the air intakes of the Panamericana grille. Other styling elements include the fins on the side air outlets in the front fenders; there are additional unique styling cues on the rear diffuser, along with tailpipe trim elements.
There’s black chrome for days on this guy and the wheels are special too, with a cross-spoke AMG forged design featuring the aforementioned black chrome.
On the inside there’s even more of that black and silver vibe. The upholstery is Silver Pearl/Black Exclusive Nappa Leather with Grey diamond-patterned contrasting topstitching. The AMG Performance steering wheel? That’s covered in black DINAMICA microfiber with Grey contrasting topstitching. The 12 o’clock mark on the steering wheel is in Silver Pearl, and there’s Edition 50 badging.
The GT C Roadster Edition 50 is powered by an AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo that puts out 550 horsepower (5,750-6,750 rpm) and 502 lb-ft of torque (1,900-5,750 rpm ), which is a very broad torque curve indeed. The transmission hangs out back as a transaxle, fed by a torque tube from the AMG plant. The transaxle is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The whole package can get to 60 in 3.7 seconds, topping out at an electronically limited 196 mph.
2018 Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster “Edition 50.” Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet Ocean Blue Edition
The C63 Cabriolet Ocean Blue Edition comes with its own unique styling and design. As one would imagine, there’s lots of blue, specifically, Deep Ocean Blue, which is a new color. That color is used for the fabric acoustic soft top and numerous other details such as the trim strips on the front and rear bumper, and the wheel center caps. The Deep Ocean Blue acts as a contrasting color throughout the Crystal Grey interior.
The analog clock is a nice touch – it’s also highlighted by Deep Ocen Blue stitching.
The sheet metal itself is painted in designo Cashmere White Magno to contrast with the Deep Ocean Blue found elsewhere on the car. The interior is primarily Crystal Grey nappa leather with diamond quilting and Deep Ocean Blue topstitching for contrast. There’s a special edition badge in the center console in case you forget what you’re driving. Mercedes-AMG is up front about the car being aimed at a “particularly fashion-conscious and design-oriented target group.”
That does not, however, mean this cruiser can’t move.
Motivated by a handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo that cranks out 503 horsepower (5,500-6,250 rpm) and 516 lb-ft. of torque (1,750-4,500 rpm), the rear-wheel drive C63 Cabriolet Ocean Blue Edition can hit 60 in 4 seconds, topping out at an electronically limited 174 mph.
The car itself is limited to just 150 units worldwide.
2018 Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet Ocean Blue Edition. Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
AMG Performance Studio Package
The third of the three AMG specials is the Performance Studio Package for the Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe and Cabriolet. Mainly, this seems to be an over-glorified trim package with an AMG sourced mill under the hood.
The car has numerous black details slathered inside and out. And Mercedes-AMG points out that “for the first time, the C43 Cabriolet is available with black exterior details.” I know, I, too, can barely contain my excitement. The radiator grille sports black pins instead of chrome; the trim strips on the front splitter, the rear bumper, side skirts, trunk lid spoiler, and tailpipe trim elements are all painted black.
The 19-inch multi-spoke light-alloy wheels? Black. The rim of the steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfiber is also black.
2018 Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe with AMG Performance Studio. Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.

AMG Performance Studio Package Performance
And yup, there’s that AMG engine up front. A 3.0L V6 biturbo putting out 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft. of torque. This is delivered to the bahn via an AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system (with a nice 31:69 torque split) and a 9-speed automatic transmission. Performance stats? How about 4.6 seconds to 60 and . . . wait, this thing tops out at 130 mph? And even then it’s electronically limited?
That can’t be right. [Goes and checks.] [Goes and checks again.] Man, it is right! That’s pretty slow.
Shoot, when I was in high school, the Smith brother’s mom had a station wagon that was faster than that. And I mean a lot faster. Okay, so dad Smith was a semi-pro drag racer and he dropped a 440 Wedge motor into the thing, but that Polara could fly, no two ways about it. But why get off onto a tangent, especially one of dubious legality?
These new Mercedes-AMG models are on display at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, and will be available for order this summer.
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.
2018 Mercedes-AMG C43 Cabriolet with AMG Performance Studio. Photo: Mercedes-Benz USA.
Photos & Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

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2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport Review

2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport Review

What’s sporty, fuel-efficient, fast, turbocharged, fun-to-drive, and has the utility of a hatch? No, it’s not a new Subaru WRX hatch, and it doesn’t cost a fortune. It’s the new Honda Civic Hatchback Sport.
It offers up a lot for the money, and it could be Honda’s best new launch in years.
We recently drove a Rallye Red 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport with the 6-speed manual gearbox.
What’s New For 2017
The Honda Civic received a complete redesign last year, and now comes in a hatchback body style, making it a compelling compact that offers up plenty of utility. The available turbocharged engine produces a bit more power in the hatch model too.
Hatchback Sport Features
The Honda Civic Hatchback Sport has a starting MSRP of $21,300 and comes loaded with standard features: automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights and taillights, 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks, an expanded-view driver’s side mirror, automatic climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and manual front seats with driver height adjustment.
Electronic features include a 5-inch central display screen, a rearview camera, Bluetooth capability, and a four-speaker sound system with a USB port.
The Sport gets a more powerful version of the turbocharged four cylinder engine, 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, a center-outlet dual exhaust, aerodynamic bodywork, a rear center armrest with cupholders, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Total MSRP including destination: $22,175.

Interior Highlights
Stepping inside reveals a sporty cabin and a driver-focused cockpit. Everything is easy to reach and the controls are straight forward. The highly adjustable seats, and standard tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel made it easy to find a comfortable driving position as we headed out for a weekend drive.
The Honda Civic Hatchback Sport we tested offered top-notch materials throughout and comfortable cloth seats, along with Honda’s typically tight finish. We liked the Civic’s extra storage spots up front for our gloves, cell phones, and sunglasses. The large backseat allows 6-foot-tall adults to sit with sufficient leg and headroom.
The rear hatch offers extra utility for loading larger items after the setbacks are lowered flat. Overall, the Civic Hatch features a well planned out space, with everything packaged so you can store smaller things as well as large cargo items in the back.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Honda Civic Hatch Sport is powered by a sweet 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged direct injected engine. It produces 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft. of torque. Get the 6-speed manual rower if you are a driving enthusiast. It comes with 15 more lb-ft of torque than the CVT automatic.
Fuel economy is excellent with an EPA estimated 30/39 city/highway and 33 combined mpg.
Driving Dynamics
We were all over the city of Denver, and even took a couple trips to Colorado Springs over the last week in the new Civic Hatchback. In the city, it was easy to maneuver through narrow streets, and we were able to squeeze into tight parking spots with ease. We navigated some congestion and had no trouble getting around slower traffic on the highway.
The 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with the manual transmission is more powerful than you would think. It comes with a sweet exhaust note and solid power delivery, which is nice to see in a Honda powerplant. We did plenty of miles on the highway, and the Civic Hatchback offered a composed ride that wasn’t too floaty or harsh on the bumps.
The cabin is a bit noisy at high speeds, but far better than Civic models of the past.
Up in the high country west of Denver, the extra power and torque of the turbo engine kicked in and we could down-shift the 6-speed manual to find the perfect gear for passing. The Civic with the 6-speed manual rower is the way to go if you like to drive. It has quick throws and smooth shifts making it a joy to drive. The 1.5-liter turbo feels extra quick, thanks to the additional, steady low-end torque. The side visibility is a bit less than previous models due to the raked roofline, but that’s the price you pay for the sporty hatch look.
Conclusion
If you want an affordable, sporty, fuel-efficient, fast, turbocharged, and fun-to-drive compact with utility, the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport with the 6-speed manual gearbox is the way to go. Add in a comfortable, roomy interior filled with upscale materials, and you have a great city commuter that you won’t get tired of driving.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Gallery

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2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Official Site
Photos: Honda North America

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Automoblog Book Garage: Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance

Automoblog Book Garage: Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance

We are really jazzed about the new Chevy Camaro. Recently, we reported on the 2017 ZL1’s impressive top speed and how the ZL1 LE is utilizing amazing technology to push performance boundaries. The Camaro is a timeless and iconic American machine no matter the era, and this weekend in our Book Garage series, we go back to the very beginning; long before the new ZL1 existed.
Why do we love the Camaro so much? Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance gets to the heart of the matter.
Storied Performance
In the early 1960s, American automakers raced to meet the demands of baby boomers, a burgeoning market that craved something more unique with regard to cars. Ford got the jump with the Mustang but the bowtie would not settle to the blue oval, responding with the Camaro in 1967.
The Mustang and Camaro rivalry has continued since, and if you fancy yourself on Team Camaro, you fondly recall the likes of the RC, SS, Z28, and IROC-Z. And 50 years from now, we will be doing the same with the ZL1.
Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance documents the entire story; how Chevrolet developed advanced tech at the time for the Camaro, how changes in the market put a strain on muscle cars, and how the battle between Mustang spilled over onto dealership showfloors. The more modern day Camaro is examined, detailing its departure and ultimate return in 2010.
The book features stunning, never-before-seen archival photography from General Motors.
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.
Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance is available through Amazon. Other works by Mike Mueller are available through Motorbooks.
Camaro: Fifty Years of Chevy Performance Gallery

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