Automotive

2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Review: Great for Playing in the Mud!

2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Review: Great for Playing in the Mud! 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-RoadIn Our Opinion: The 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road is the newest member of the automaker's TRD family. While the off-road capability is a given, we were taken back by how comfortable this RAV4 is on dry pavement. It was a pleasant surprise to discover this off-road rig was still pretty good in the city. Although we are not sold on the exterior styling, the interior is sharp and that makes up for it. Exterior Styling 74Interior Layout 87Driving Dynamics91Safety & Tech Features 86Everyday Functionality87ProsComfortable Off-Road Chops Chassis & SuspensionConsRoad & Wind Noise Feels Top-Heavy Sometimes 85Suffice it to say; we had a ton of fun with the 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road! During our week-long test drive, rain was often in the forecast across Southeast Michigan. We used the occasion to head north of Detroit and hit some muddy and washed-out gravel roads. With selectable off-road modes (Multi-Terrain Select), the RAV4 TRD Off-Road certainly has the off-pavement chops, but what about everyday driving?

While off-road capabilities have their allure, things like fuel economy and comfort are also important. How does the new RAV4 TRD Off-Road stack up? Here is what we found during our week-long test drive.

Toyota RAV4: What’s New for 2020?

All RAV4 models receive Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa functionality. The LE and XLE grades, both gas and Hybrid, receive a three-month trial of SiriusXM. Limited models receive a special JBL Audio package with an 800-watt amplifier.

The TRD Off-Road is a new trim level for 2020, while the RAV4 Hybrid receives only minor updates.

RAV4 TRD Off-Road Performance Upgrades

Inspired by Ryan Millen’s Rally RAV4.8.6-inches of ground clearance and off-road suspension.Multi-Terrain Select modes: Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, and Snow.Twin-tube shocks are re-valved and feature internal rebound springs.Bump stops maximize compression-direction and improve body control.18×7-inch matte-black TRD alloy wheels with Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail tires.Tires are “Severe Snow Rated” with open shoulder grooving for harsh terrain.Standard Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive with Driveline Disconnect.Our 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road press vehicle. LED fog lights are standard on this model. 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Press Vehicle

Our press vehicle came from the factory with Dynamic Torque Vectoring (all-wheel drive), a TRD-tuned suspension, and the Multi-Terrain Select system mentioned above. Under the hood was a 2.5-liter four-cylinder.

The TRD Off-Road Technology Package gave us front and rear parking assist with automated braking, wireless charging, bird’s-eye view camera, and a cool digital rearview mirror. We enjoyed the Premium Audio, Dynamic Navigation w/ JBL Package (which is a mouthful!). That package includes niceties like an eight-inch touchscreen, 11-speaker JBL stereo with a subwoofer, and Toyota’s Dynamic Navigation system with a three-year trial.

Our RAV4 TRD Off-Road press vehicle included these helpful features from Toyota Connected Services: Safety Connect w/ one-year trial, Service Connect w/ 10-year trial, and Wi-Fi Connect w/ up to two GB on a three-month trial.

The TRD Off-Road Weather Package added heated and ventilated leather seats and rain-sensing wipers with de-icer. Meanwhile, the Safety & Convenience package included the following safety feature as part of Toyota Safety Sense 2.0:

Road Sign AssistLane Tracing AssistAutomatic High BeamsLane Departure Alert with Steering AssistPre-Collision System with Pedestrian DetectionFull-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise ControlOur 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road came standard with eight airbags, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and the LATCH system (lower anchor and tether) for car seats.

Window sticker of our 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road press vehicle.What Does The 2020 Toyota RAV4 Cost?

The base price for our 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road came to $35,180. With the packages outlined above, some one-off add-ons, and a destination fee of $1,120, total MSRP was $41,418 for our press vehicle.

By comparison, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 starts at $25,950.

Interior Highlights: Initial Impressions

The 2020 RAV4 rides on Toyota’s New Global Architecture, sometimes called the “TNGA-K” platform. On the one hand, this makes the vehicle more rugged and capable when the blacktop ends (sorry, I was listening to Keith Urban). On the other, it helps the RAV4 feel roomy inside, despite being smaller in stature.

Inside, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road looks sharp with its red accents and black SofTex leather seats. Stitched into the headrests is the TRD logo, and the all-weather floor mats are a nice touch. In terms of tech and connectivity features, everything about the RAV4 TRD Off-Road is solid. Our concern was not so much with things like this, but how it would ride on the open road.

2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road interior layout. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.Interior Highlights: Surprised In a Good Way!

The concern for us was how the 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road would feel on dry pavement. We were skeptical at first, but the TRD Off-Road is surprisingly smooth and comfortable on the highway, despite its off-pavement leanings. While wind and road noise will enter the cabin on occasion, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road was remarkably pleasant for us on I-75 through the Detroit metro.

The TNGA-K platform makes all the difference here in our minds. The RAV4’s unibody chassis is 57 percent more rigid than the previous model, and it makes a significant difference on the open road. While off-road, this rigid structure has numerous benefits for sure. On the interstate or during normal road conditions, however, it helps the RAV4 TRD Off-Road feel more composed from the driver’s seat.

The RAV4 TRD Off-Road may feel top-heavy at times with the additional ground clearance, but backing off a few mph will mitigate that, especially through tighter corners on the highway. Otherwise, the interior is stylish and functional, and pleasantly surprising in terms of ride comfort.

While the RAV4 TRD Off-Road can handle the dirt and mud, it’s surprisingly smooth when you find concrete again. 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Powertrain

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road employs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with direct injection, dual overhead cams, and variable valve timing. Complete with an aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads, the engine produces 203 horsepower (6,600 rpm) and 184 lb-ft. of torque (5,000 rpm). Attached to the engine is an eight-speed automatic with a differential radio of 3.177.

When properly equipped, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road can tow 3,500 lbs.

EPA fuel economy ratings are 25/32 city/highway and 27 combined. During our week-long drive, we were right at that and even a little better at times.

Related: Everything you need to know about Toyota’s warranty. Driving Dynamics: When The Going Gets Fun!

The week we had our RAV4 TRD Off-Road was a rainy one in the Detroit metro. Given the weather and the off-road upgrades of our press vehicle, we started at the Stone Railroad Bridge on Indian Lake Road, just off M-24 near Lake Orion, Michigan. Indian Lake Road is unpaved and twists around a wooded area past Indian Lake and another unnamed inlet lake.

It was the ideal place, especially in the rain, to test our RAV4 TRD Off-Road press vehicle. We placed the Multi-Terrain Select system into Rock & Dirt and hit the gas!

2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road: In The Mud

Through the rough and muddy corners, Toyota’s Dynamic Torque Vectoring system shined for us. When necessary, it can send up to 50 percent of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels, but it can also distribute torque between the left and right rear wheels. Despite giving the RAV4 some grunt through the wet corners, Toyota’s torque vectoring technology kept us balanced. Likewise, the meaty Falken Wildpeak tires dig in and don’t let go.

Once again, the rigidity of the TNGA-K platform is critical when trouncing through the dirt and mud. The same platform, chassis, and suspension that gave us a composed ride on the way up I-75 was now taking hits from the rougher, wet terrain. Based on our drive, we believe the chassis, suspension, and tires work in unison with the torque vectoring and Multi-Terrain select systems to deliver a confident (and fun) ride when the pavement disappears.

The video below was filmed with our Garmin Tandem dash camera.

Should You Buy a 2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road?

The 2020 Toyota TRD Off-Road is a blast when plowing through the north forty, but it’s comfortable enough for city cruising. Add to that a stylish and sporty interior, and Toyota has a winner here. If you don’t need all the performance upgrades, we recommend looking at the RAV4 LE or XLE. Both of those trim levels offer all-wheel drive but have a lower MSRP than the TRD Off-Road.

However, if you don’t mind spending the extra dough, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road is one fun machine.

Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and a member of the Midwest Automotive Media Association and the Society of Automotive Historians. He serves on the board of directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, is a past president of Detroit Working Writers, and a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Original article: 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Review: Great for Playing in the Mud!

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Chapter 2: Talking With Bob At Lulu’s

Chapter 2: Talking With Bob At Lulu’s The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me is a gasoline-fueled narrative by automotive journalist Tony Borroz. It details the joys, thrills, and even the uncertainties of the car-obsessed lifestyle. In advance of the book’s release, we are previewing the first few chapters. Chapter one here.
I’m in downtown Palm Springs (at least I think it’s downtown, is there a downtown?) at a place called Lulu’s with my old friend Bob. Crossing that border, going either way, always seems to result in some shift of mood. Either crossing into Arizona on I-10 or into SoCal going the other way, things modulate. As I crossed over, other drivers seemed to both speed up and get less aggressive. It’s never out of your mind, when you’re in Arizona, that there are a lot of people wearing gun belts. People seem to have this affect of always being under threat, ready for anything.
“Don’t cross me” seems to be the attitude, body language, and implication, if not outright stated. I once had a guy reach for his gun on me when I moved his shopping cart out of the way at the Fry’s Grocery.
But this does not seem like a very strong possibility here in Palm Springs. Palm Springs is simultaneously an odd and an alluring place. It’s about as Southern California as you can get without a beach. Everyone seems polished, for a start. Everyone, or nearly everyone, boarders on Hollywood-good-looking. Which is not that surprising, since Palm Springs was started, or at least put on the map, as a Hollywood Colony, a nice getaway spot for the weekend, before The War. It has that sense that everyone you see, at least everyone who is white or acceptably ethnic, is somehow Connected.
As I crossed over, other drivers seemed to both speed up and get less aggressive.
Setting The Scene
It’s a nice balmy desert evening in January by the time Bob and I are making our way through the semi-cavernous interior of Lulu’s. Lulu’s is like an architectural representation of Palm Springs itself. Who knows what it was when it was first built, because by now sweetie, this place has had more work done than Joan Rivers. On top of that, it’s polished, lit just so with very expensive looking lights, slathered with “art” of a nondescript modernist bent, decorated in colors a toddler would love, and menu’d with fare that is 50 percent weird stuff (calamari croquembouche with a fennel semi-demi-glaze drizzled in raw balsamic goat sweat) and 50 percent normal diner food (burgers, fries).
And, since this is Palm Springs, about a third of the people you see are gay. The other thirds are Hollywood types, usually an older rich guy with his bit of fluff for the night, and then even older Hollywood types. Palm Springs is where a lot of gay people go both from SoCal and from up in the Bay Area. Supposedly the place gets really full around holidays, Christmas and Thanksgiving and such. It makes sense. Who wants to spend time with a family that, up until recently, was pretty damn likely to disown you.
Rocket Man
Bob is gay. He’s an older, refined sort of fellow that I worked with for a number of years at Boeing. He has a clipped and direct way of speaking; looking squarely at you, always clearing his throat to speak, precise in his diction and word choice. You could think that’s because he used to be a writer (at least that’s what he was when I met him at Boeing) but it’s actually his mom raising him to be a gentleman at all times. He’s that kind of Old School Guy.
He understands what is expected. He knows what one does not say at a time like this. He can also turn that off in an instant to make stunningly adult jokes that leave everyone in convulsions. Bob is good company and it always turns out to be a good conversation. In addition to being a plane guy (you had to be, working in the aerospace industry) Bob is very, very much a car guy. It used to be Porsche 911s (he owned a string of them) that he was constantly working on and modifying, but recently he got a first-gen Mercedes SLK. “I’m older now,” he said by way of explanation.
He had been around the industry long enough to have seen, if not been part of, a lot of outright failures.
Grand Visions
Tonight’s first topic of conversation: the modern aircraft industry, natch. Bob, being an older chap, is starting to show some weariness concerning things that fly. He had been around the industry long enough to have seen, if not been part of, a lot of outright failures. If things turned out the way the aircraft industry said it would, by now, there would be super-sonic transports zipping all over the place and landing at airport transportation hubs built on top of skyscrapers in downtown Chicago. But, they didn’t, so here sit Bob and I talking about current failures.
“Well Airbus sure screwed it up with the A380,” he says with a wry chuckle.
The A380 is that huge double-decker plane that, if you listened to the Airbus marketing guys, was going to dominate all overseas routes and literally be the only way to fly if you were on a long haul hop from Australia to Dubai. Bob was, of course, referencing the recent news that Airbus was on the verge of canceling any further production of the A380 because no one was buying them. Then Air Emirates handed them a lifeline and put in an order.
“Seriously, they thought that would work,” scoffed Bob. “They take forever to get people on and off of. They require larger gates. [That’s a huge deal.] And the fuel costs are outrageously high. But there’s Boeing, plugging along with making dual-engined wide-bodies that can fly from Hartsfield-Jackson to Gatwick in a single hop on 30 percent less fuel. Who the hell does Airbus think they’re fooling? What, airlines want to spend more money? Never in my life, I can tell you that!”
Bob’s right. There are many, many things I learned working in aerospace. I picked up stuff on composites and the logistics of bombing the living crap out of a city and why you design planes to have the engines literally drop off in some situations. I also learned a lot about why people buy airplanes. Why do rich people buy airplanes? Convenience. The same reason we own cars: because taking the bus or getting a cab is pretty inconvenient in most cases.
Goodbye Sky Lounge and hello to cramming as many people as you can fit into a tube without them going totally Malthusian on the flight crew.
Jumbo Jets & Big Rigs
Why do airlines exist? To make money. Period. Remember all that mid-century stuff about how airliners of the future would be like flying bar-lounges where the Roger Sterlings of the 21st Century would hang out, make the big deals, and get drunk as skunks? Yeah, that didn’t happen, did it? Airlines are not in the travel business. They are not in the business of making your flying experience one of luxury and being pampered by a miniskirted sky-trollop. No. Airlines are in the people moving business. And, like any other business, they are there to make money. First and last and always. So goodbye Sky Lounge and hello to cramming as many people as you can fit into a tube without them going totally Malthusian on the flight crew.
Bob recently got to fly first class, and he noticed, as I had noticed in the recent past, that flying first class today is what flying, period, was like years ago. To be treated with dignity and respect and like a living, breathing human being; you’ve got to pay for it now. Nearly triple, actually. The sad trajectory here is that airlines will keep squeezing us, literally, as much as they can until their is such a passenger revolt, or the FAA forces them through regulation to stop treating us like pigs in a semi trailer bound for a rendering plant.
Of course, talking about planes quickly led us to talking about cars. Specifically, Bob and I were both fascinated by the impending arrival of self-driving cars. Of course we both look at the entire concept with dread and repugnance, but auto firms seem to want to make it happen, and a certain portion of the populace think it’s a good idea.
“But you know,” Bob said, “that’s not where they’re going to really work.”
“How do you mean?”
“Look, the most logical place to get all this self-driving car tech figured out and first implemented is with self-driving semis,” he grinned.
It suddenly made perfect sense, like someone telling you “turn it to the left to get the screw off.”
“Yeah, that would work. It’s using an industrial setting as a technical proving ground,” I agreed.
“And, most semi truck driving is on long, more or less straight stretches of freeway. There’s little variation in routes. And getting stuff from A to B is easier than people who change their minds, want to stop for lunch and all that stuff,” he pointed out.
“The only problem is going to be . . . ”
“Teamsters,” we both said in unison.
“Jeez, can you imagine their response when Elon Musk tries to tell them their jobs are going to be obsolete,” I asked, shaking my head.
“Oh. They’ll weld him into an oil drum and dump him into Monterey Bay before dinner,” Bob smiled. “This is the problem with tech guys. Half of the time they answer questions nobody really asked, and the other half of the time, they don’t fully grasp who they are going to seriously piss off with their bright ideas.”
It suddenly made perfect sense, like someone telling you “turn it to the left to get the screw off.”
What Women Want?
I told Bob about when I was working at Microsoft, and this guy was putting together a presentation for digital currency and how it can be used and all that stuff. At one point, his presentation said something about “we will soon have a completely cashless society” and I half-stifled a laugh. He looked at me incredulously. “What? You don’t think we can do it?” Oh, I know you can do it. It’s just if you think there’s going to be a “cashless society” I know of some thoroughly legitimate businessmen in the waste disposal industry in northern New Jersey you should talk to.
It was like a light bulb went off over his head, I told Bob. He had literally never thought about the possibility that some people actually like to deal in cash. And there’s a whole portion of society that needs to have things be on a cash-only basis. I think I kind of ruined the poor guy’s presentation for him.
Naturally, talk of self-driving-anything lead to Bob’s next thesis for the night: women want appliance cars.
Now, at this point, it’s worth mentioning that Bob is, in a lot of ways, an old school kind of guy. And on top of that, he’s an old school gay guy. Not that he’s misogynistic, just like a lot of post-war gay guys, he never seemed to be interested in women as people. Call it a low grade, but not negatively realized prejudice.
I don’t agree with Bob on this, or idea that “women want appliance cars” but I can see where he’s going. It dovetails with the self-driving car thing. I don’t think that women want appliance cars – I think a certain portion of the population, male or female, want cars that function as nothing more than appliances.
Call it a low grade, but not negatively realized prejudice.
Necessity Versus Passion
The thesis, in more egalitarian terms, works like this: An even larger portion of the public either have no need for cars, or, if they do, see them as little more than the machine you use to get from here to there. This is the machine that makes my toast, this is the machine that heats my food, this is the machine that gets me to my job, then to the club after work.
For people that think like this, and Bob and I both feel there is a growing number of them, a self-driving car seems ideal. These are, we both postulated, 90 percent of the people who buy Kias and Hyundais and other near-entry level “fashion” cars. Cars that look of the moment, styling-wise, that have a lot of cool features you expect in a new car, but will also be a device that, when the time comes to ditch it, you will do so with about as much thought as junking an old microwave.
This is the future demographic for self-driving cars. Neither Bob nor I am outright opposed to this future, but we also agreed that just as long as they stay the hell out of our way when we’re out for a Sunday morning drive, it will be a good thing for us gearheads.
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.

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Land Rover “Draws” Massive Defender Outline At 9,000 Feet In The French Alps

Land Rover “Draws” Massive Defender Outline At 9,000 Feet In The French Alps So Land Rover has been in the truck-making game for 70 years now. That’s an impressive string, especially when you consider what the British automotive industry went through in the late-70s, early-80s. But here we are, and as you would expect, Land Rover decided to celebrate.
And how did they celebrate this milestone? By making a giant Defender in the snow of the French Alps, of course. No, it doesn’t make much sense to me either, but it’s still kind of cool. The giant Land Rover snow art was made in anticipation of World Land Rover Day, April 30th, which will be exactly 70 years since the original Landy was first shown at the 1948 Amsterdam Motor Show.
Vertical Limits
In La Plagne, France, which is southwest from Chamonix, snow artist Simon Beck, who somehow has a job creating geometric art on foot, confronted sub-zero temperatures to produce the outline of a Defender 820 feet across, 9,000 feet up in the French Alps. Yeah, the idea is kind of nutty, and the details make it even more so. To create the high-altitude Defender, Beck walked for 20,894 steps through the French Alps. That adds up to a total of 10.2 miles.
“Making my snow art requires endurance, accuracy, and strength – all attributes shared with the Defender. Its iconic shape is so simple and recognized across the world; this must be the most recognizable piece of art I’ve ever made,” related Simon (although that sounds like he was reading something a marketing weasel handed him).
And I get what they were going for here, but if it was me in place of Simon Beck, I would have made them trace it out on a sandy beach in Hawaii or some place warm like that.
Snow artist Simon Beck at work. Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.
Humble Beginnings
Of course, the thing about doing this in the first place is that it ties back to how Land Rover got its start. You’ve heard the phrase, “I sketched it out on the back of a napkin?” That’s pretty close to how Land Rover got going. It all started when Rover’s Engineering Director, Maurice Wilks, first sketched the shape for the original Land Rover in the sand of Red Wharf Bay, England. See guys: Sand. Hawaii would have been much better.
Anyway, Maurice proposed the idea to his brother, Spencer, who just happened to be Landy’s Managing Director. Spencer liked it, christened it the “Land Rover,” which over time turned into the modern day Defender.

Waxing Poetics
If you’re a fan of the go-anywhere Brit, there’s no need to hike up into the Alps to join the celebrations. Land Rover is inviting fans to join the World Land Rover Day fun via an online broadcast from the UK at 3:00 pm EDT on April 30th. Programming will feature the significant people who created “the world’s most-loved 4x4s.” That, of course, made me cough the word “JEEP!” very loudly, but okay, people still like Land Rover. Let’s not gild the lily too much, shall we chaps?
Anyway, that online broadcast will also take an in-depth look at the band’s most innovative technologies, from the original Series Land Rover and Defender origins, up to the introduction of the Range Rover in 1970 and the Discovery in 1989.

Continued Celebrations
The U.S. market will get in on the fun by celebrating World Land Rover Day at its new 12-acre headquarters in Mahwah, New Jersey. There will be a gathering of people and products of historical significance for the Land Rover brand. Members of the winning 1993 American Camel Trophy U.S. team will be reunited with the vehicles that competed in that year’s rally in Malaysia.
In addition, a North American Spec Range Rover Classic from the first year Range Rover was sold in America will be on hand, along with several examples of the North American version of the Defender sold here from 1992 to 1997.
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.
70 Years of Land Rover Timeline
1948       Land Rover Series I launched at the Amsterdam Motor Show.
1953       Long Wheelbase version of the Series I is introduced.
1956       Oxford and Cambridge teams complete on London to Singapore expedition in Series I.
1958       Land Rover Series II unveiled with more refined design.
1970       Original two-door Range Rover (the Classic) goes on sale.
1971       Land Rover Series III launched.
1972       Range Rover crosses Darien Gap on 18,000-mile Trans-America expedition.
1976       1,000,000th Land Rover built.
1979       A Range Rover wins the inaugural Paris-Dakar rally (and again in 1981).
1981       Land Rover begins legendary partnership with Camel Trophy.
1981       Four-door Range Rover released.
1989       Land Rover Discovery, the third Land Rover model, goes on sale.
1990       Original ‘Landie’ relaunched and renamed Defender.
1994       Second generation Range Rover launched.
1997       All-new Freelander is unveiled with innovative new technology: Hill Descent Control.
2001       Third-generation Range Rover with all-round independent air suspension revealed.
2003       Inaugural G4 challenge sees 16 teams traverse USA, South Africa and Australia.
2004       Range Stormer Concept previews performance Range Rover and three-door body.
2004       Discovery 3/LR3, the third-generation Discovery, launched at New York Motor Show.
2005       All-new Range Rover Sport unveiled.
2006       Freelander 2/LR2 launched. The first Land Rover to be manufactured at Halewood.
2007       LRX concept car previews design language of a new luxury compact SUV.
2009       Fourth generation of the Land Rover Discovery introduced.
2010       Range Rover Evoque, the world’s first luxury compact SUV, makes global debut.
2012       Fourth-generation Range Rover introduced – the first all-aluminum SUV.
2013       New generation of Range Rover Sport unveiled at New York Motor Show.
2014       Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division is officially launched.
2014       Range Rover Sport SVR debuts, the fastest, most agile, most powerful Land Rover.
2014       Discovery Vision Concept previews design vision for new family of Discovery vehicles.
2014       Launch of Discovery Sport, a new premium compact SUV with 5+2 seating.
2015       Trio of end-of-line Defender editions revealed with biggest sand drawing in UK.
2015       Exclusive Range Rover SVAutobiography long wheelbase launched in New York.
2015       Evoque Convertible becomes world’s first luxury compact SUV convertible.
2015       One-of-a-kind Land Rover ‘Defender 2,000,000’ sells for £400,000 at charity auction.
2016       Last Defender rolls off the production line.
2016       All-new Discovery with world-first remote Intelligent Seat Fold technology launched.
2017       Land Rover launches the fourth Range Rover, the Velar.
2018       Limited Edition Range Rover SV Coupé debuts at Geneva Motor Show.
Photos & Source: Jaguar Land Rover.

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New Chevy Silverado HD To Arrive Next Year

New Chevy Silverado HD To Arrive Next Year Chevrolet announced the new Silverado HD will debut next year as a 2020 model. The forthcoming HD will be the third entirely new Silverado in just 18 months, joining the 2019 Silverado 1500 and Silverado medium-duty series trucks. The automaker believes the new Silverado portfolio will drive growth and sales.
“With a completely new, expanded range of Silverado models on the horizon, we expect to see even more truck buyers in Chevrolet showrooms,” explained Alan Batey, Global Head of Chevrolet. “All three Silverado models offer a wide range of choices, as no two truck customers are alike.”
According to Chevrolet, the new Silverado HD is undergoing rigorous performance testing, with the validation metrics for durability having increased. Silverado HD prototypes will be road-tested later this year in an effort to meet the market’s demands and expectations.
“Chevrolet has built more than 85 million trucks in 100 years and we have applied that accumulated truck expertise to the new Silverado range,” Batey said. “Every Silverado is built to be long-lasting and dependable, as many customers need their trucks to earn a living or to do what they enjoy most when they’re off the clock.”
The first production models are scheduled to roll off the assembly lines in Flint, Michigan during the third quarter of 2019. Chevrolet says complete product and pricing information will be available closer to that time.
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.
Photo& Source: Chevrolet.

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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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7 Wildly Awesome Jeep Concepts For The 2017 Easter Jeep Safari

7 Wildly Awesome Jeep Concepts For The 2017 Easter Jeep Safari

The Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah is the cultural oasis of the off-road community. Each year, thousands of off-road enthusiasts descend upon Moab to tackle the trails, canvass the outdoors, and soak in the sights. To mark the 51st anniversary of the event, the Jeep and Mopar brands will showcase some of their most unique concepts.
“It’s truly a labor of love for the Jeep team to develop exciting, capable concept vehicles each year for Moab and the Easter Jeep Safari,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global.
This year’s concept collection employs both production and prototype Jeep Performance Parts. Mopar develops and builds the individual parts, ensuring each one can stand up to the rigors and challenges of off-road use. Jeep owners often seek these parts and accessories out to increase the capability of their vehicle.
“These concept vehicles are a perfect example of how off-road enthusiasts can use Jeep Performance Parts to personalize and enhance the already outstanding Jeep capability, allowing them to face the toughest trails in the world,” said Pietro Gorlier, Head of Parts and Service (Mopar), FCA – Global.
The concepts this year range and vary quite nicely in terms of performance and technology. Some of them have really slick designs, others have powerful engines; a couple have stellar lighting setups. Here are the seven concepts appearing at the 2017 Easter Jeep Safari.
Jeep Grand One
The Jeep Grand One celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Grand Cherokee with a modernized take on the classic 1993 ZJ. The Grand One Concept features custom 18-inch lace-style wheels and high-clearance fender flares. The wheelbase is extended while subtle wood grain decorates the body. Inside, the original Grand Cherokee is alive and well, with ’90s-inspired materials and touches, including a classic car phone.
Just in case anybody calls while you are on the trials . . .
And covering the trails should be of little concern with the Jeep Grand One’s 33-inch BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain KM2 tires and 2-inch suspension lift. The front and rear axles are equipped with selectable locking differentials too. A 5.2-liter V8 engine, mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, provides the necessary power.
Jeep Safari
Jeep Safari Concept. Photo: FCA US LLC.
When hitting the trails, its always more fun with family and friends. The Jeep Safari Concept realizes this through a unique cabin design that gives rear passengers a commanding view. This Wranger-based machine is ultra modern too, with a translucent hard-top roof panel and two-level aluminum cargo rack with incorporated drone. A raked windshield, boatsided rocker panels, LED headlamps, and custom LED tail lamps and parking/turn lamps finish off the Safari Concept.
Notice the “windoors” with zipper openings? Those are crafted from lightweight aluminum and clear vinyl, and hinge like a cabinet during entry and exit. Inside, the two rear bucket seats are rotated outboard, making it easier for rear seat occupants to see out. The modern treatments continue with an instrument panel-mounted iPad.
Getting to any off-road destination is easy with front and rear Dana 44 axles equipped with selectable differential lockers. Overall body length was reduced to make the Safari more agile with its 2-inch lift. The concept vehicle includes 35-inch BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain KM2 tires on custom 18-inch wheels, full-length skid plates, steel front and rear bumpers, on-board air system, upgraded brakes, and a cold air intake.
The Jeep Safari is powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, paired to a five-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep Quicksand
Jeep Quicksand Concept. Photo: FCA US LLC.

Those who want to combine the likes of classic Mopar muscle with Jeep off-road capability will find themselves right at home with the Jeep Quicksand Concept. Perhaps the most noticeable element is the “peekaboo” cutout in the hood – underneath is a Mopar 392 Crate HEMI engine with eight-stack injection, mated to a six-speed Getrag manual transmission.
The downturned open headers add to that vintage hot rod feel.
Another Wrangler-based concept, the Jeep Quicksand features a longer wheelbase, with a trimmed front and rear body, and a chopped hard top and windshield. While flying down the trails, the top and windows provide that sense of “wind through your hair” freedom – or if not that, it’s a great way to hear the engine! What’s also unique is the staggered tire setup never done on any Jeep concept prior. The Quicksand features 32-inch BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain KM2 tires in the front and 37-inch BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain KM2 tires in the rear.
The interior is simple with red accents, two front low-back bucket seats, flat aluminum door panels, tilt-out windshield glass, and a chrome roll bar. Higher tech tools include a Warn winch in the front Moon tank and a recovery rope in the rear.
Jeep Trailpass
Jeep Trailpass Concept. Photo: FCA US LLC.
This little trail butterfly is based on the new Jeep Compass and features a 1.5-inch lift, 18-inch wheels, and Continental TerrainContact all-terrain tires. Other exterior features include Gloss Black side mirror caps, a custom hood graphic, side stripes, tinted headlamps and tail lamps, and a Mopar/Thule roof basket with roof bag and traction mats.
On the inside, Jeep Trailpass occupants are treated to custom Katzkin leather seats and armrests, body-color bezel accents, and all-weather floor mats. The powertrain consists of a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine and nine-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep Switchback
Jeep Switchback Concept. Photo: FCA US LLC.
The Jeep Switchback Concept hits the ground running with front and rear Dana 44 axles, a 4-inch lift with Remote Reservoir Fox shocks, heavy-duty cast differential covers, 10th Anniversary steel front and rear bumpers, Rubicon winch, and a cold air intake. The Switchback grips the trails with 17-inch concept wheels and 37-inch BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain KM2 tires.
The axle-back exhaust is a nice touch.
The exterior features are nicely crafted from the hood and half doors to the hard top and roof racks. Jeep Performance Parts on the exterior include high-top fender flares, Mopar black fuel door and tail lamp guards, swing gate hinge reinforcement, and oversized spare tire carrier. Those who hit the trails in the evening or during bad weather will appreciate the Switchback’s incredible lighting system. This Jeep is complete with a concept LED off-road windshield light bar, concept LED off-road A-pillar lamps, LED tail lamps, and LED headlamps and fog lamps.
The inside is trimmed with Katzkin leather seats, body-color bezel accents, concept sport bar grab handles, and Mopar all-weather mats. The floor is actually made from a spray-in bed liner material. The cargo area also has a storage rack stocked with first aid and roadside safety supplies.
The Jeep Switchback Concept is powered by the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep Luminator
Jeep Luminator Concept. Photo: FCA US LLC.

This Wrangler-based Jeep concept has it all: off-road capability, high-tech features, and lots of lights. Hence the name, Jeep Luminator. The vehicle’s sophisticated lighting system was jointly developed with the Automotive Lighting division of Magneti Marelli. And they thought of everything needed to light up the trails in proper fashion: magnetic underbody rock lights, 7-inch LED projector bi-function headlamps, unique LED tail lamps, A-pillar-mounted LED spot lights, and upper bumper LED auxiliary lighting.
The fog lamps actually “corner” and are dictated by the steering angle.
The Jeep Luminator’s hood houses a scanning LED light bar module with active spot and dynamic following technology. This tool works as a spotlight to warn drivers of potential hazards while navigating the trials. The rear lighting setup is equally advanced. The center high-mount stop light, for example, acts as a scouting/trail lamp with four-color LEDs for trail rides: complete stop (red), 1-3 miles per hour (amber), 3-25 mph (green), or white when rear flood lighting is needed.
High-tech features include the roof-mounted solar panel, a drone landing pad with a lighted drone, and an interactive touchscreen display on the driver’s side rear window with GPS and internet capability.
Jeep CJ66
Jeep CJ66 Concept. Photo: FCA US LLC.

Think of this fireball as the Frankenstein of Jeeps. The Jeep CJ66 recipe calls for a Jeep Wrangler TJ frame and a 1966 Jeep Wrangler CJ universal Tuxedo Park body. Sprinkle in Wrangler JK elements and serve vigorously with a Mopar 345 Crate HEMI Engine Kit.
Like its Quicksand brethren, the CJ66 has plenty of muscle with its 383 horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI and six-speed manual transmission. A Mopar 345 Crate HEMI engine cover shelters the powerplant while a Mopar cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust increase overall performance.
Front and rear Mopar Dana 44 Crate axles, 35-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain tires, 17-inch beadlock wheels, and a 2-inch lift will make short work of any off-road obstacles. An advanced two-way air system lets drivers air tires up or down, depending on the desired pressure.
The color is called “Copper Canyon” and is accented by a matte black “CJ sixty six” stripe on the hood. Other exterior treatments include oversized fender flares, Mopar 10th Anniversary Wrangler JK Rubicon Bumper Kits, skid/front bumper plates, and rock rails. The CJ66 is also equipped with Mopar LED amber fog lamps and a Mopar Warn winch.
While it will attend the 2017 Easter Jeep Safari, this is not the first time the CJ66 has been in public. The concept Jeep actually made its debut at the 2016 SEMA Show in Las Vegas last November.
The Jeep CJ66 Concept features a custom-built roll cage and Dodge Viper style seats. Photo: FCA US LLC.
Jeep Mania
Do you have a favorite on this list? It’s hard to pick one, but we are kinda partial to the Luminator and CJ66. Maybe something on this list will make it into production after the 2017 Easter Jeep Safari? It’s hard to say, but Jeep is using the occasion to gain insight from the many off-road fans in attendance.
“We look forward to the reaction and feedback from enthusiasts and our most loyal customers as these new Jeep concepts are put through their paces on the trails in Moab,” Manley said.
If you are heading to the Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, make sure you take lots of pictures and tag us on Twitter – we definitely want to hear about your adventure. The 2017 Easter Jeep Safari begins on April 8th and runs through the 16th.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: FCA US LLC.

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Nissan GT-R Track Edition: Godzilla Descends On NYC

Nissan GT-R Track Edition: Godzilla Descends On NYC

The Nissan GT-R. The ultimate Skyline. The preferred ride of Brian O’Conner. The Japanese Corvette. Godzilla. This is, to a lot of people, the definitive expression of Japanese automotive technology. The flagship for the entire country. And, apart from Acura’s NSX, it’s hard to argue with that.
The Nissan GT-R encapsulates a lot of the predilections of Japan’s auto industry and Japanese culture.
Standing Apart
It is very high tech. It does a lot with a little. It is amazingly reliable. It is very, very thought out and refined. It is, in strange ways, practical. It is styled and finessed like a Bonsai tree. The GT-R is about as Japanese as Kobe beef or an upset Hello Kitty with a Samurai sword. This, however, is not even that. This is not “just” a GT-R, this is the GT-R Track Edition, and it’s a whole new beasty.
The GT-R Track Edition is the third model in the GT-R lineup. The Track Edition slots between the “T” (touring) and “R” (racing) models. The GT-R Track Edition was conceived to deliver a higher level of performance than the GT-R Premium, but not be as bat guano crazy as the line’s flagship 600 horsepower GT-R NISMO. The GT-R Track Edition cranks out 565 horsepower, which is the same as the GT-R Premium.
Over 600 horsepower would have been fun, but oh well.
The Nissan GT-R’s front end retains the automaker’s signature “V-motion” grille, which enhances engine cooling versus the previous GT-R design. Furthermore, the reinforced hood provides additional stability during high speed driving. Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Performance DNA
The new GT-R Track Edition is set apart from its brethren by such performance-oriented features as the body’s additional adhesive bonding, which increases rigidity versus the GT-R Premium model. This is in addition to the normal spot welding, but sadly in place of fully seam welding the entire car. The suspension gets unique NISMO tuning that reduces weight and adds additional roll stiffness over the GT-R Premium. You also get NISMO-spec tires on the new GT-R Track Edition.
Speaking of the GT-R NISMO, the GT-R Track Edition gets the NISMO’s front fenders along with 20-inch NISMO forged aluminum-alloy wheels, and a special dry carbon-fiber rear spoiler. On the inside there’s a unique red and black color treatment with high-grip, Motorsports-inspired Recaro seats. “Motorsports-inspired?” Why not just throw in some real Motorsports-sourced Recaro seats?
All 2017 Nissan GT-Rs are built on an exclusive Premium Midship platform, which I’m guessing is Nissan-speak for a British “mid” engine; i.e. the engine sits behind the front axel line. This sort of set up allows Nissan to use a unique independent rear transaxle ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system. That places the transmission, transfer case, and final drive at the rear of the vehicle for better weight distribution for maximized handling.
Takumi Legend
The Nissan GT-R Track Edition’s power plant is a 565 horsepower, hand-assembled twin-turbo VR38DETT 3.8-liter V6 engine. All GT-R engines are hand-assembled in a special clean room by highly trained techs. They even give them a special Japanese name: Takumi. There’s an aluminum plate added to the front of each mill with the name of the Takumi, a nice touch. Torque is rated at 467 lb-ft., which is pretty good for an overhead cam six. The bad air goes out the back via a titanium exhaust system that’s standard, and probably very expensive.
The GT-R’s mill is mated to a paddle-shifted, sequential 6-speed dual clutch transmission, which, at the touch of a button, can be selected to shift at race car-like speeds. There’s also high performance differential oil standard in the diff case.
The aluminum plate at the front of each engine reveals the name of the Takumi engine craftsman. Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Audible Attributes
There is a standard Bose audio sound system with Active Noise Cancellation and Active Sound Enhancement technologies to filter out unwanted noise, and retain excitement during spirited driving. Which does fit with the character of the car, but it is also, to my mind, rather sad. You want to know how to make an engine sound right? Make it sound right from the beginning. Don’t mess around with fancy tech gimmicks like speakers and active noise cancellation.
Build the engine right from the get-go. Work the intake and exhaust tracts. Tune that exhaust they way any decent racing car company would, and it will sound fantastic . . . you know, like Porsche and Ferrari and Alfa Romeo have been doing for decades.
And this points out what is the “failing” (if you could call it that) of the GT-R. It is a $29 answer that 25 cents could have fixed. Nissan, like Japan itself, loves to throw high tech at any given problem. Why solve a problem in three steps when you can solve it in 103? Why make a car go fast and handle right with a high horsepower, naturally aspirated engine and rear-wheel drive, when you can make a car go just as fast with a twin turbo plant, all-wheel drive, and more computing power than the space shuttle?
“The new GT-R Track Edition gives buyers a specialized model, one true to GT-R heritage and available only by special order,” said Michael Bunce, Vice President, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. “Building on the major upgrade to every GT-R for 2017, the Track Edition is an amazing package inside, outside, and under the skin.” Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Waxing Poetics
But let’s get down to brass tacks here. The starting MSRP for a GT-R Track Edition is $127,990. And that is more than a loaded Corvette ZO6. And yes, you can say a Corvette is a blunt tool and the GT-R Track Edition is a precision instrument. You can say the GT-R Track Edition is a flint-knapped scalpel and the Corvette ZO6 is a meat axe in comparison. And you’d be right. But you’d also be right to say a Corvette ZO6 would chew up a GT-R and spit out the pieces.
But hey, it’s your money, and if you’re a fan of all things Japan, and really got a Jones for a GT-R Track Edition, please, be my guest and buy one of the things. I know you’ll enjoy it, and in many ways they are very hard to argue with. You best get in line, however. The GT-R Track Edition is by order only and will be available later this summer. The vehicle officially debuts at the New York International Auto Show, April 14th through the 23rd, at the Jacob Javits Convention Center.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
2017 Nissan GT-R Track Edition Gallery

Photos & Source: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

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