2016 Mini Cooper S Clubman Rendered, Detailed: It’s Coming to Haul Your Stuff

What It Is: To say the final Mini Clubman was a compelling oddball would be an understatement. It was half hatchback, half station wagon and nearly completely strange, with a 5-door layout that integrated rear barn doors and a rear-hinged suicide door on one side only. It was as well modest to ever be taken seriously as a load-lugger—despite Mini trying, and failing, to make a case—but it undoubtedly had an abundance of character.

This is our rendered take on what the new version to be launched later this year will look like. We know that it will be larger and much more sensible—indeed, it’s set to be the greatest Mini but in terms of all round dimensions. The big question is whether or not it will be able to match any of the idiosyncratic charm of its predecessor.

2013 Mini Cooper Clubman

The Clubman will, in essence, be a station-wagon version of the 4-door Cooper hatchback, with an extended cargo area. The rear-hinged “clubdoor” has gone, replaced by standard doors (and one particular on every single side!), but it will stick with twin side-hinged doors at the back, with the glass in every getting its own dinky tiny wiper blade. If it sticks to the published dimensions of the apparently production ready Clubman Concept that was shown at the 2014 Geneva auto show, it will be some 10 inches longer than the last Clubman and a half a foot up on the Countryman, which, till now, has been the greatest Mini.

Why It Matters: In the U.S. we fear that it won’t. Promoting station wagons is enough of a challenge here in the ideal of times, let alone a little one particular that carries the price premium that comes with a Mini badge. But in those components of the planet where tourers still reign—like Europe—this is a sensible move to broaden the appeal of the Mini hatchback. Luggage accommodation is unlikely to be overly generous, but it will nonetheless be the most spacious Mini to date for both men and women and stuff. Mini insiders have hinted that we can also count on to see an all-wheel-drive version later on, which will broaden its appeal still additional.

Platform: Like its F56 Mini brethren, the Clubman sits on BMW’s new front-drive UKL1 platform, which also underpins the not too long ago launched (and thankfully not-for-the-U.S.) BMW 2-Series Active Tourer. Mechanically it will share all main elements with the Mini hatchback (and the 2er), including the very same independent rear suspension. BMW has resisted the temptation to match a less costly (and far more space-effective) torsion beam at the back, which need to make certain the Clubman drives as crisply as its hatchback siblings but efficiently precludes offering third-row seating in this model provided the packaging constraints.

2013 Mini Cooper Clubman

Powertrain: All will be familiar, with the same 3- and 4-cylinder gasoline engines as the existing Cooper hatchback, probably running all the way to the 228-hp John Cooper Operates powertrain, and with a decision of automatic or stick-shift transmissions. Europeans will also be in a position to pick diesel versions, although they practically undoubtedly won’t make it to the U.S. And as mentioned above, the platform gives all-wheel drive, which we think will be presented as an choice some time following launch.

Competition: Fiat 500L, Ford Focus ST, Volkswagen Golf SportWagen.

Estimated Arrival and Value: Appear for the new Clubman to arrive in the 4th quarter of 2015, and to command roughly $ 1500 far more than the commensurate 2-door, non-Clubman hatchbacks.

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2016 Mini Cooper S Clubman Rendered, Detailed: It’s Coming to Haul Your Stuff

2016 Infiniti QX50 Revealed: Stretched for China, Now Coming to America

In answer to the obvious query about the Infiniti QX50, yes, they still make it. Formerly recognized as the EX35, it was genuinely 1 of the initial luxury crossovers—it debuted back in 2008—but regardless of the soaring popularity of the category, the EX35-cum-QX50 has been all but invisible on American roads. Maybe the QX50 is as well much of a hatchback and not adequate of an SUV. Or maybe the anemic sales (which are bouncing along at around 200 units per month) are due to the QX50’s cramped rear quarters.

Infiniti should be hoping it is the latter, because it is adding 3.2 inches to the wheelbase of the QX50. Truly, the surgery has already been done—on the Chinese-marketplace version, which has been out for the past 6 months or so. The new, longer QX will not arrive here until this fall, as a 2016 model.

The wheelbase stretch adds a claimed 4 inches of further rear legroom and a bit much more cargo space, as nicely. Interestingly, it has tiny evident have an effect on on the car’s styling, which seems hardly changed from the current model.

Nor are any substantial mechanical alterations element of the 2016 update. Which indicates the exact same 325-hp 3.7-liter V-6 and 6-speed automatic ought to continue, with a decision of rear- or 4-wheel drive.

In the absence of any other modifications, will the further inches be adequate to raise this model’s stature? Frankly, that seems like a fairly tall order.

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2016 Infiniti QX50 Revealed: Stretched for China, Now Coming to America

2016 Infiniti QX50 Revealed: Stretched for China, Now Coming to America

In answer to the clear question about the Infiniti QX50, yes, they nevertheless make it. Formerly identified as the EX35, it was genuinely one particular of the very first luxury crossovers—it debuted back in 2008—but in spite of the soaring reputation of the category, the EX35-cum-QX50 has been all but invisible on American roads. Perhaps the QX50 is also significantly of a hatchback and not sufficient of an SUV. Or possibly the anemic sales (which are bouncing along at about 200 units per month) are due to the QX50’s cramped rear quarters.

Infiniti should be hoping it’s the latter, simply because it is adding 3.2 inches to the wheelbase of the QX50. Truly, the surgery has currently been done—on the Chinese-industry version, which has been out for the previous 6 months or so. The new, longer QX will not arrive right here until this fall, as a 2016 model.

The wheelbase stretch adds a claimed 4 inches of extra rear legroom, and a bit more cargo space as properly. Interestingly, it has small evident influence on the car’s styling, which appears hardly changed from the present model.

Nor are any significant mechanical alterations as component of the 2016 update. Which implies the identical, 325-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 and 6-speed automatic must continue, with a decision of rear-or 4-wheel drive.

In the absence of any other modifications, will the further inches be sufficient to raise this model’s stature? Frankly, that appears like a quite tall order.

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2016 Infiniti QX50 Revealed: Stretched for China, Now Coming to America

2016 Lotus Evora 400 Revealed, Coming to the U.S. this Fall

Official Images and Info

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A sign of life at Lotus.

The Lotus Evora 400, information of which were released ahead of its debut at the Geneva auto show subsequent month, falls some way quick of getting a main redesign—aesthetically “mild facelift” is a lot more like it. But at least the Evora 400 is lighter and faster than the version it replaces—both powerful Lotus attributes. It’s also simpler to get in and out of, and there’s a new, greater-good quality cabin, too. But the fundamentals are all unchanged: a bonded aluminum chassis, composite bodywork, and energy from a supercharged Toyota V-6 mounted amidships.

The numbers are undoubtedly impressive. The 3.5-liter engine has been tuned to provide 400 horsepower (a 55-hp enhance) and 302 lb-ft of torque. Together with a 49-pound weight reduction to a claimed 3119 pounds, the official zero-to-60-mph time is reduced to 4.1 seconds and the top speed boosted to 186 mph. The rear wing and diffuser are mentioned to provide 71 pounds of aerodynamic downforce at 150 mph, and Lotus says the Evora 400 is 6 seconds faster around its Hethel test track than the Evora S, matching the lap time of the Exige S.

In addition to the improved output, the vehicle gains a restricted-slip rear differential for the 1st time (with the manual gearbox only), along with slightly bigger brakes and lighter wheels (19 inches at the front, 20 inches at the rear). Lotus claims improved shift high quality and clutch action for the standard 6-speed manual, although the optional automatic once again uses Lotus’s push-button “PRND” interface and shift paddles.

Despite the fact that we’re not blown away by the mildly revised exterior styling, the new cabin does appear like a distinct improvement more than the previous Evora’s low-cost-feeling cockpit, with switchgear now marshaled at the best of the dashboard rather than in the difficult-to-see hinterland in between the steering wheel and the door. We even very like the natty shade of red leather trim in these official images. It nonetheless doesn’t look particularly modern day, but it no longer seems stuck in the 1990s.

Lotus has also delivered on its guarantee to increase access by reducing the width and height of the doorsills—they’re 1.7 inches narrower and 2.2 inches lower, which need to make getting in and out marginally less difficult. The new sports seats are claimed to be 13 pounds lighter, whilst the vestigial rear seats are 11 inches wider. There are also smart airbags, which means that, after the Evora’s 1-year exile from the U.S., the 400 will be on sale here this fall.

The huge question is how a lot it will cost. No U.S. figures have been released yet, but in the U.K., rates are set to rise by far more than 10 percent compared to the prior Evora S (to around £70,000). This for a car that wasn’t precisely flying off the shelves the last time it was provided in America, a car which is going to have to face the challenge of some newer rivals which includes the imminent new turbocharged Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S.

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2016 Lotus Evora 400 Revealed, Coming to the U.S. this Fall

2016 Lotus Evora 400 Revealed, Coming to the U.S. this Fall

Official Photos and Information

arrow

A sign of life at Lotus.

The Lotus Evora 400, specifics of which were released ahead of its debut at the Geneva auto show subsequent month, falls some way brief of getting a major redesign—aesthetically “mild facelift” is far more like it. But at least the Evora 400 is lighter and faster than the version it replaces—both sturdy Lotus attributes. It is also less complicated to get in and out of, and there’s a new, higher-quality cabin, also. But the fundamentals are all unchanged: a bonded aluminum chassis, composite bodywork, and energy from a supercharged Toyota V-6 mounted amidships.

The numbers are certainly impressive. The 3.5-liter engine has been tuned to deliver 400 horsepower (a 55-hp improve) and 302 lb-ft of torque. Together with a 49-pound weight reduction to a claimed 3119 pounds, the official zero-to-60-mph time is lowered to 4.1 seconds and the best speed boosted to 186 mph. The rear wing and diffuser are stated to provide 71 pounds of aerodynamic downforce at 150 mph, and Lotus says the Evora 400 is 6 seconds faster about its Hethel test track than the Evora S, matching the lap time of the Exige S.

In addition to the increased output, the car gains a limited-slip rear differential for the 1st time (with the manual gearbox only), along with slightly bigger brakes and lighter wheels (19 inches at the front, 20 inches at the rear). Lotus claims enhanced shift good quality and clutch action for the regular 6-speed manual, while the optional automatic again makes use of Lotus’s push-button “PRND” interface and shift paddles.

Even though we’re not blown away by the mildly revised exterior styling, the new cabin does appear like a distinct improvement over the preceding Evora’s inexpensive-feeling cockpit, with switchgear now marshaled at the prime of the dashboard rather than in the challenging-to-see hinterland among the steering wheel and the door. We even fairly like the natty shade of red leather trim in these official pictures. It still doesn’t look specifically modern day, but it no longer seems stuck in the 1990s.

Lotus has also delivered on its promise to improve access by reducing the width and height of the doorsills—they’re 1.7 inches narrower and 2.2 inches reduce, which should make getting in and out marginally less complicated. The new sports seats are claimed to be 13 pounds lighter, while the vestigial rear seats are 11 inches wider. There are also sensible airbags, meaning that, soon after the Evora’s a single-year exile from the U.S., the 400 will be on sale here this fall.

The large question is how much it will expense. No U.S. figures have been released yet, but in the U.K., rates are set to rise by a lot more than 10 % compared to the earlier Evora S (to about £70,000). This for a auto that wasn’t exactly flying off the shelves the last time it was offered in America, a automobile which is going to have to face the challenge of some newer rivals including the imminent new turbocharged Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S.

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2016 Lotus Evora 400 Revealed, Coming to the U.S. this Fall

Ford Confirms All-New Ford Focus RS; More Than 12 Vehicles Coming from New Global Team

• Ford is launching an all-new Focus RS – the ultimate performance version of the world’;s best-selling global nameplate


• Focus RS will be made available globally for first time


• Ford bringing more global performance vehicles to customers worldwide; more than 12 new performance vehicles through 2020 – including Focus RS – to be available globally

• Ford uniting regional performance engineering and racing teams as one global team under Ford Performance, delivering more new vehicles and parts, sooner

PRETORIA, South Africa, Dec. 11, 2014 - Ford today confirmed it will be launching an all-new Focus RS – the ultimate performance version of the world’;s best-selling global nameplate.* The company announced that the all-new RS will be made available to customers in major markets around the world for the first time.

Ford also announced that the all-new Focus RS is one of more than 12 new performance vehicles coming for global enthusiasts through 2020. This is part of the company’;s plan to deliver more performance vehicles, parts and accessories for customers around the world – more quickly – through a new global Ford Performance team.

“Ford remains committed to innovation through performance,” says Raj Nair, Ford’;s group vice president, Global Product Development. “Through our global Ford Performance team that ties together racing, performance vehicles, and parts, we can more quickly bring to market products and accessories that meet the needs of customers around the world on-road and on the track.”

Focus RS, which builds on a pedigree of driving excellence dating back to the first Ford RS in 1968, was last introduced in 2009.

“To earn the RS badge, the vehicle has to be a no-compromise driver’;s car that can deliver exceptional performance on the track when required while providing excellent every day driving,” Nair said.

In addition to pleasing enthusiasts, vehicles such as Focus RS help deliver the company’;s One Ford plan for profitable growth, product excellence and innovation in every part of its business. Performance vehicle sales are growing around the world – with sales in Europe and the U.S. up by 14 percent and 70 percent respectively, since 2009.

Powering performance vehicles, such as the Fiesta ST and Focus ST, is Ford’;s award-winning EcoBoost engine range. Since the introduction of the EcoBoost engine in 2009, Ford has produced more than 2 million EcoBoost engines globally.

“EcoBoost is a strong example of how we are migrating technology and engineering across our line-up, ensuring our vehicles are fun to drive – not just our Ford Performance line-up,” Nair said. “From our most nimble Fiesta to our hard-working full-size pickups and racing vehicles, our line-up benefits from the innovations we deliver at the track and at the limit.”

New global team

The new Ford Performance organisation unifies Team RS, Ford SVT, and Ford Racing globally, serving as an innovation laboratory and test-bed to create unique performance vehicles, parts, accessories and experiences for customers.

This includes developing innovations and technologies in aerodynamics, light-weighting, electronics, powertrain performance and fuel efficiency that can be applied more broadly to Ford’;s product portfolio.

In addition to race tracks around the world, the team also will develop new vehicles and technologies at Ford’;s engineering centres globally and at a new technical centre in Charlotte, North Carolina. This state-of-the-art facility helps the team deliver racing innovations as well as advancing tools for use in performance vehicles and daily drivers alike.

The Ford Performance organization is led by Dave Pericak, who has been appointed director, Global Ford Performance.

Heritage of Performance Innovation

Performance and racing are deeply embedded in Ford’;s DNA, dating back 113 years ago when Henry Ford won the Sweepstakes Race against Alexander Winton – then America’;s greatest racer.

Following a remarkable upset victory in front of Detroit’;s business elite, some of whom immediately came forward to back whatever automotive venture Henry had in mind, Ford Motor Company opened 18 months later.

“Ford still races for the same reasons Henry Ford did in 1901 – to prove out our products and technologies against the very best in the world,” Nair said. “The Ford Performance team will continue to pursue performance innovation, ensuring we can deliver even more coveted performance cars, utilities and trucks to customers around the world.”

Ford Confirms All-New Ford Focus RS; More Than 12 Vehicles Coming from New Global Team

Ford Confirms All-New Ford Focus RS; More Than 12 Vehicles Coming from New Global Team

• Ford is launching an all-new Focus RS – the ultimate performance version of the world’;s best-selling global nameplate


• Focus RS will be made available globally for first time


• Ford bringing more global performance vehicles to customers worldwide; more than 12 new performance vehicles through 2020 – including Focus RS – to be available globally

• Ford uniting regional performance engineering and racing teams as one global team under Ford Performance, delivering more new vehicles and parts, sooner

PRETORIA, South Africa, Dec. 11, 2014 - Ford today confirmed it will be launching an all-new Focus RS – the ultimate performance version of the world’;s best-selling global nameplate.* The company announced that the all-new RS will be made available to customers in major markets around the world for the first time.

Ford also announced that the all-new Focus RS is one of more than 12 new performance vehicles coming for global enthusiasts through 2020. This is part of the company’;s plan to deliver more performance vehicles, parts and accessories for customers around the world – more quickly – through a new global Ford Performance team.

“Ford remains committed to innovation through performance,” says Raj Nair, Ford’;s group vice president, Global Product Development. “Through our global Ford Performance team that ties together racing, performance vehicles, and parts, we can more quickly bring to market products and accessories that meet the needs of customers around the world on-road and on the track.”

Focus RS, which builds on a pedigree of driving excellence dating back to the first Ford RS in 1968, was last introduced in 2009.

“To earn the RS badge, the vehicle has to be a no-compromise driver’;s car that can deliver exceptional performance on the track when required while providing excellent every day driving,” Nair said.

In addition to pleasing enthusiasts, vehicles such as Focus RS help deliver the company’;s One Ford plan for profitable growth, product excellence and innovation in every part of its business. Performance vehicle sales are growing around the world – with sales in Europe and the U.S. up by 14 percent and 70 percent respectively, since 2009.

Powering performance vehicles, such as the Fiesta ST and Focus ST, is Ford’;s award-winning EcoBoost engine range. Since the introduction of the EcoBoost engine in 2009, Ford has produced more than 2 million EcoBoost engines globally.

“EcoBoost is a strong example of how we are migrating technology and engineering across our line-up, ensuring our vehicles are fun to drive – not just our Ford Performance line-up,” Nair said. “From our most nimble Fiesta to our hard-working full-size pickups and racing vehicles, our line-up benefits from the innovations we deliver at the track and at the limit.”

New global team

The new Ford Performance organisation unifies Team RS, Ford SVT, and Ford Racing globally, serving as an innovation laboratory and test-bed to create unique performance vehicles, parts, accessories and experiences for customers.

This includes developing innovations and technologies in aerodynamics, light-weighting, electronics, powertrain performance and fuel efficiency that can be applied more broadly to Ford’;s product portfolio.

In addition to race tracks around the world, the team also will develop new vehicles and technologies at Ford’;s engineering centres globally and at a new technical centre in Charlotte, North Carolina. This state-of-the-art facility helps the team deliver racing innovations as well as advancing tools for use in performance vehicles and daily drivers alike.

The Ford Performance organization is led by Dave Pericak, who has been appointed director, Global Ford Performance.

Heritage of Performance Innovation

Performance and racing are deeply embedded in Ford’;s DNA, dating back 113 years ago when Henry Ford won the Sweepstakes Race against Alexander Winton – then America’;s greatest racer.

Following a remarkable upset victory in front of Detroit’;s business elite, some of whom immediately came forward to back whatever automotive venture Henry had in mind, Ford Motor Company opened 18 months later.

“Ford still races for the same reasons Henry Ford did in 1901 – to prove out our products and technologies against the very best in the world,” Nair said. “The Ford Performance team will continue to pursue performance innovation, ensuring we can deliver even more coveted performance cars, utilities and trucks to customers around the world.”

Ford Confirms All-New Ford Focus RS; More Than 12 Vehicles Coming from New Global Team

Ford Confirms All-New Ford Focus RS; More Than 12 Vehicles Coming from New Global Team

• Ford is launching an all-new Focus RS – the ultimate performance version of the world’;s best-selling global nameplate


• Focus RS will be made available globally for first time


• Ford bringing more global performance vehicles to customers worldwide; more than 12 new performance vehicles through 2020 – including Focus RS – to be available globally

• Ford uniting regional performance engineering and racing teams as one global team under Ford Performance, delivering more new vehicles and parts, sooner

PRETORIA, South Africa, Dec. 11, 2014 - Ford today confirmed it will be launching an all-new Focus RS – the ultimate performance version of the world’;s best-selling global nameplate.* The company announced that the all-new RS will be made available to customers in major markets around the world for the first time.

Ford also announced that the all-new Focus RS is one of more than 12 new performance vehicles coming for global enthusiasts through 2020. This is part of the company’;s plan to deliver more performance vehicles, parts and accessories for customers around the world – more quickly – through a new global Ford Performance team.

“Ford remains committed to innovation through performance,” says Raj Nair, Ford’;s group vice president, Global Product Development. “Through our global Ford Performance team that ties together racing, performance vehicles, and parts, we can more quickly bring to market products and accessories that meet the needs of customers around the world on-road and on the track.”

Focus RS, which builds on a pedigree of driving excellence dating back to the first Ford RS in 1968, was last introduced in 2009.

“To earn the RS badge, the vehicle has to be a no-compromise driver’;s car that can deliver exceptional performance on the track when required while providing excellent every day driving,” Nair said.

In addition to pleasing enthusiasts, vehicles such as Focus RS help deliver the company’;s One Ford plan for profitable growth, product excellence and innovation in every part of its business. Performance vehicle sales are growing around the world – with sales in Europe and the U.S. up by 14 percent and 70 percent respectively, since 2009.

Powering performance vehicles, such as the Fiesta ST and Focus ST, is Ford’;s award-winning EcoBoost engine range. Since the introduction of the EcoBoost engine in 2009, Ford has produced more than 2 million EcoBoost engines globally.

“EcoBoost is a strong example of how we are migrating technology and engineering across our line-up, ensuring our vehicles are fun to drive – not just our Ford Performance line-up,” Nair said. “From our most nimble Fiesta to our hard-working full-size pickups and racing vehicles, our line-up benefits from the innovations we deliver at the track and at the limit.”

New global team

The new Ford Performance organisation unifies Team RS, Ford SVT, and Ford Racing globally, serving as an innovation laboratory and test-bed to create unique performance vehicles, parts, accessories and experiences for customers.

This includes developing innovations and technologies in aerodynamics, light-weighting, electronics, powertrain performance and fuel efficiency that can be applied more broadly to Ford’;s product portfolio.

In addition to race tracks around the world, the team also will develop new vehicles and technologies at Ford’;s engineering centres globally and at a new technical centre in Charlotte, North Carolina. This state-of-the-art facility helps the team deliver racing innovations as well as advancing tools for use in performance vehicles and daily drivers alike.

The Ford Performance organization is led by Dave Pericak, who has been appointed director, Global Ford Performance.

Heritage of Performance Innovation

Performance and racing are deeply embedded in Ford’;s DNA, dating back 113 years ago when Henry Ford won the Sweepstakes Race against Alexander Winton – then America’;s greatest racer.

Following a remarkable upset victory in front of Detroit’;s business elite, some of whom immediately came forward to back whatever automotive venture Henry had in mind, Ford Motor Company opened 18 months later.

“Ford still races for the same reasons Henry Ford did in 1901 – to prove out our products and technologies against the very best in the world,” Nair said. “The Ford Performance team will continue to pursue performance innovation, ensuring we can deliver even more coveted performance cars, utilities and trucks to customers around the world.”

Ford Confirms All-New Ford Focus RS; More Than 12 Vehicles Coming from New Global Team

Ford Confirms All-New Ford Focus RS; More Than 12 Vehicles Coming from New Global Team

• Ford is launching an all-new Focus RS – the ultimate performance version of the world’;s best-selling global nameplate


• Focus RS will be made available globally for first time


• Ford bringing more global performance vehicles to customers worldwide; more than 12 new performance vehicles through 2020 – including Focus RS – to be available globally

• Ford uniting regional performance engineering and racing teams as one global team under Ford Performance, delivering more new vehicles and parts, sooner

PRETORIA, South Africa, Dec. 11, 2014 - Ford today confirmed it will be launching an all-new Focus RS – the ultimate performance version of the world’;s best-selling global nameplate.* The company announced that the all-new RS will be made available to customers in major markets around the world for the first time.

Ford also announced that the all-new Focus RS is one of more than 12 new performance vehicles coming for global enthusiasts through 2020. This is part of the company’;s plan to deliver more performance vehicles, parts and accessories for customers around the world – more quickly – through a new global Ford Performance team.

“Ford remains committed to innovation through performance,” says Raj Nair, Ford’;s group vice president, Global Product Development. “Through our global Ford Performance team that ties together racing, performance vehicles, and parts, we can more quickly bring to market products and accessories that meet the needs of customers around the world on-road and on the track.”

Focus RS, which builds on a pedigree of driving excellence dating back to the first Ford RS in 1968, was last introduced in 2009.

“To earn the RS badge, the vehicle has to be a no-compromise driver’;s car that can deliver exceptional performance on the track when required while providing excellent every day driving,” Nair said.

In addition to pleasing enthusiasts, vehicles such as Focus RS help deliver the company’;s One Ford plan for profitable growth, product excellence and innovation in every part of its business. Performance vehicle sales are growing around the world – with sales in Europe and the U.S. up by 14 percent and 70 percent respectively, since 2009.

Powering performance vehicles, such as the Fiesta ST and Focus ST, is Ford’;s award-winning EcoBoost engine range. Since the introduction of the EcoBoost engine in 2009, Ford has produced more than 2 million EcoBoost engines globally.

“EcoBoost is a strong example of how we are migrating technology and engineering across our line-up, ensuring our vehicles are fun to drive – not just our Ford Performance line-up,” Nair said. “From our most nimble Fiesta to our hard-working full-size pickups and racing vehicles, our line-up benefits from the innovations we deliver at the track and at the limit.”

New global team

The new Ford Performance organisation unifies Team RS, Ford SVT, and Ford Racing globally, serving as an innovation laboratory and test-bed to create unique performance vehicles, parts, accessories and experiences for customers.

This includes developing innovations and technologies in aerodynamics, light-weighting, electronics, powertrain performance and fuel efficiency that can be applied more broadly to Ford’;s product portfolio.

In addition to race tracks around the world, the team also will develop new vehicles and technologies at Ford’;s engineering centres globally and at a new technical centre in Charlotte, North Carolina. This state-of-the-art facility helps the team deliver racing innovations as well as advancing tools for use in performance vehicles and daily drivers alike.

The Ford Performance organization is led by Dave Pericak, who has been appointed director, Global Ford Performance.

Heritage of Performance Innovation

Performance and racing are deeply embedded in Ford’;s DNA, dating back 113 years ago when Henry Ford won the Sweepstakes Race against Alexander Winton – then America’;s greatest racer.

Following a remarkable upset victory in front of Detroit’;s business elite, some of whom immediately came forward to back whatever automotive venture Henry had in mind, Ford Motor Company opened 18 months later.

“Ford still races for the same reasons Henry Ford did in 1901 – to prove out our products and technologies against the very best in the world,” Nair said. “The Ford Performance team will continue to pursue performance innovation, ensuring we can deliver even more coveted performance cars, utilities and trucks to customers around the world.”

Ford Confirms All-New Ford Focus RS; More Than 12 Vehicles Coming from New Global Team

Honda N-Box Slash: Retro Appears, Puzzling Name, In no way Coming to America

Check out this boxy little flivver. It is the Honda N/, which you’re meant to pronounce “N-Box Slash.” It’s an effective tiny runabout that packs 10 pounds of retro style in a 5-ounce bag. And it’s by no means, ever coming to the U.S. industry. Sorry.

The N-Box Slash is the fifth model in Honda’s N-Series of kei automobiles, Japanese domestic market place subcompacts that appreciate tax breaks and urban parking perks in exchange for their postage-stamp size. By law, kei cars are no much more than 133.8 inches long, 58.2 inches wide, and 78.7 inches tall–in other words, they’ll match in an 11-foot-by-5-foot parking space.

Tiny size doesn’t mean absent style, though–the N-Box Slash comes in retro flavors ranging from Fiat 500-style gumdrop pastels to the black and chrome aesthetic of a pint-size hot rod. Inside, purchasers can decide on colors that evoke a 1950s diner or the wood paneling from Ron Burgundy’s pad, with seats that fold flat enough for, uh, sleeping?

This rolling box of kitsch will likely be powered by the .6-liter turbo 3-cylinder that motivates the rest of Honda’s N-Series microcars, according to Left Lane News. It goes on sale in Japan starting December 22nd. Aching for this retro style to come to North America? You’re out of luck. Possibly stick some dog-dish hubcaps on the box your refrigerator came in.

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Honda N-Box Slash: Retro Appears, Puzzling Name, In no way Coming to America

S-Max Headroom: Ford Launches All-New S-Max MPV, We Want It Was Coming Here

October 2, 2014 at 10:02 pm by Jens Meiners | Photography by Marc Urbano

America’s affection for minivans might be on the wane, but in Europe the tall-roof household mover (or MPV) segment is as powerful as ever. At the Paris auto show, Ford launched the second generation of its S-Max MPV, which is provided in 2 distinct body types with space for 5 or 6 passengers. Visually, the new S-Max is an evolution of the outgoing model, but this vehicle is totally new: It stands on a different platform and does not share a single body panel with the first S-Max.

What’s more, it now sports the grille that reminds us of a specific British sports-vehicle maker that when belonged to Ford’s “Premier Automotive Group.” The lighting design and style is particularly impressive, with dynamic LED headlights and beautifully executed taillights.

The preceding S-Max ranked amongst the more refined men and women movers, and the second generation raises the bar from there. Ford says handling and comfort both have improved, a claim we’ll verify from behind the wheel subsequent year. The S-Max will use electric power steering whose ratio varies according to road speed at times that technology makes for greater steering, despite the fact that it often only improves fuel efficiency.

Ford says the new variety will include many effective gasoline and diesel engines. Diesels contain a 1.5-liter generating 104 horsepower and a 2.-liter with 118, 148, or 177. Gasoline-burning 1.5- and 2.-liter engines will create 158 and 237 horsepower. For the first time, the S-Max will provide all-wheel drive.

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Accessible bells and whistles consist of a heated steering wheel and heated and cooled front seats with a massage function. And the assistance systems contain speed-limit recognition. The new S-Max will hit European markets subsequent year. As to a U.S.-market launch—don’t hold your breath. But perhaps the “One Ford” technique will at some point sweep this car onto our shores.

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S-Max Headroom: Ford Launches All-New S-Max MPV, We Want It Was Coming Here

Coming Out in Gaydon: Aston to Channel its Inner Lagonda for 2015

For the longest time, the era of “folded-paper” design and style was regarded type of an embarrassment. Soon after the sensual lines of the 1950s, the opulence of the 1960s, and the powerfully muscular cues of the early 1970s, the late ’70s and early ’80s brought Bauhaus-inspired automotive themes. The ultra-angular trend faded away with the advent of more organic treatment options in the 1990s, as automakers became eager to when once more develop cars with a lot more sensual and voluptuous lines.

The most intense exponent of late-1970s/early-1980s design and style was the Aston Martin Lagonda, created by William Towns. It was described by Vehicle and Driver as “part spaceship and part Rolls-Royce, with a powerful dose of autobahn express thrown in for very good measure.” In the early 1980s, it was as costly as a Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit and a Ferrari 308 Quattrovalvole. “Got to maintain the riffraff out,” we explained back then.

Now the Lagonda is back: It will be presented from early 2015 onward, primarily based on Aston Martin’s seasoned VH platform and fitted with carbon-fiber body panels (the Towns Lagonda was dressed in aluminum). No word on the powertrain, but we suppose it will include the brand’s Cologne-constructed 6.-liter V-12.

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Hand-built “by the fine craftsmen and women” at Aston’s Gaydon, England, headquarters, the vehicle will be sold in the Middle East only—”by invitation.” Pricing hasn’t been disclosed, but Aston Martin boastfully claims “the asking cost will be commensurate with the car’s exclusivity, good quality, and luxurious nature.”

Aston Martin Lagonda

In its description of the new sedan, Aston Martin alludes to the Towns Lagonda repeatedly, and in reality, the ultralow, extended, and clean design and style is really clearly inspired by the 1970s masterpiece. Has the era of angular, aggressive design returned? Probably so, at least for the glimmering esplanades of Dubai and other petrodollar-infused Middle East locales.

Coming Out in Gaydon: Aston to Channel its Inner Lagonda for 2015

Driverless automobiles – coming soon to a road near you!

Nowadays is an historic day for motoring in the UK.

The government has announced a modify in the law to permit firms to start off running trials of driverless automobiles – which means the 1st laptop-controlled autos will hit Britain’s highways in January subsequent year.

£10 million ignition fund

A £10 million fund has been set aside to cover the costs of trials across 3 UK cities from the commence of subsequent year that will run for among 18 and 36 months.

Vince Cable PM, Enterprise Secretary, unveiled the scheme: “Today’s announcement will see driverless automobiles take to our streets in much less than 6 months, placing us at the forefront of this transformational technologies and opening up new possibilities for our economy and society.”

Effect on insurance coverage

The move could at some point lead to a huge alter in your insurance coverage premiums.

If driverless cars can be shown to be safer, and if they are involved in fewer accidents than traditional cars, the expense of insuring them will inevitably fall.

This could be a single of the major reasons why individuals get over their reflex mistrust of driverless automobiles and commence using them.

For far more on the potential influence on the insurance coverage market, study my post Could driverless cars trigger a car insurance crash?

Keeping pace?

But is the UK really ‘at the forefront’ of this technologies although, or is it just attempting to preserve pace with other nations, notably the US, house of Google, the main driver behind computerised automobile?

Coming to America: What Makes the U.S.-Spec Alfa Romeo 4C Distinctive? Very a Lot

Hunting at the 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C in its U.S.-market guise, you may well believe that it’s the identical animal as the European model, only with the usual rash of federal emissions-compliance gear onboard. You would be incorrect. Alfa Romeo reps recently showed us about the North American version of the 4C, and for the duration of the stroll-around we were in a position to hammer out specifically what makes the North American version of the tiny Italian sports car various from the one sold everywhere else. The list is a lot more complete than you probably anticipated.

Bumpers and Lights: Naturally, U.S. regulations differ from European ones, so even though our 4C appears practically identical to the Euro-spec model, there are important visual differences. The rear bumper is new, and it incorporates bulging Dagmars on either side of a narrowed license-plate-mounting nacelle, in place of the original 4C’s much more sophisticated Euro-plate mount. Even though the headlight and taillight internals appear to be the very same, they are really completely new to comply with federal lighting laws, and U.S. buyers will not be presented the European car’s optional “bug-eye” lights that’s okay by us, because those are ugly.

Left: 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C (U.S-spec). Proper: 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C (Euro-spec).

Carbon-Fiber Monocoque: The U.S.-market place 4C’s central carbon-fiber tub is unique, with the fibers laid differently all through to tailor the structure for federal crash tests. Contemplate us surprised to find out that Alfa Romeo altered more than just the bolt-on front and rear subframes.

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Weight: Speaking of American crash tests and additional gear, they’re responsible for almost all of the U.S.-spec car’s weight achieve more than the European version. The exclusive carbon-fiber tub is 92 pounds heavier, even though other tweaks—an adjustable passenger seat (needed by U.S. regulations), side and knee airbags, and regular air conditioning (46 pounds on its personal)—add up to a total claimed weight difference of 342 pounds between a base Euro model and ours.

Prime: 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C (U.S-spec). Bottom: 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C (Euro-spec).

Tuning: Whenever a hot European auto comes stateside, we’re usually pessimistic about its tuning. A car’s transition to accommodate “American tastes” nearly usually ruins the suspension tuning, for example. But lo and behold, the U.S.-industry 4C’s only suspension modifications are mild bushing tweaks to account for its heavier curb weight plus a switch from cast-aluminum suspension pieces to steel ones for durability.

Happily, none of the U.S.-spec 4C’s adjustments substantially alter the car’s lusty driving experience—even the added mass does not ruin things—and parked side-by-side, most people would be challenging-pressed to spot the variations. In truth, we’re keen to concentrate on 4C content material shared with both the U.S. and Euro versions: Manual steering that feels totally amazing, a stripped-down interior, the (optional) lack of a muffler, the same 237 turbocharged horsepower, and these saliva-gland-stimulating appears.

Coming to America: What Makes the U.S.-Spec Alfa Romeo 4C Distinctive? Very a Lot

Coming to America: What Tends to make the U.S.-Spec Alfa Romeo 4C Special? Really a Lot

Looking at the 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C in its U.S.-industry guise, you might feel that it is the identical animal as the European model, only with the usual rash of federal emissions-compliance gear onboard. You would be wrong. Alfa Romeo reps recently showed us around the North American version of the 4C, and for the duration of the stroll-around we were capable to hammer out exactly what makes the North American version of the small Italian sports car different from the one sold everywhere else. The list is more complete than you probably anticipated.

Bumpers and Lights: Naturally, U.S. regulations differ from European ones, so while our 4C looks almost identical to the Euro-spec model, there are important visual variations. The rear bumper is new, and it incorporates bulging Dagmars on either side of a narrowed license-plate-mounting nacelle, in place of the original 4C’s more sophisticated Euro-plate mount. Although the headlight and taillight internals seem to be the same, they are truly entirely new to comply with federal lighting laws, and U.S. purchasers won’t be provided the European car’s optional “bug-eye” lights that’s okay by us, because these are ugly.

Left: 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C (U.S-spec). Right: 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C (Euro-spec).

Carbon-Fiber Monocoque: The U.S.-market place 4C’s central carbon-fiber tub is special, with the fibers laid differently throughout to tailor the structure for federal crash tests. Consider us surprised to learn that Alfa Romeo altered more than just the bolt-on front and rear subframes.

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Weight: Speaking of American crash tests and added gear, they’re accountable for almost all of the U.S.-spec car’s weight acquire more than the European version. The unique carbon-fiber tub is 92 pounds heavier, although other tweaks—an adjustable passenger seat (required by U.S. regulations), side and knee airbags, and standard air conditioning (46 pounds on its own)—add up to a total claimed weight distinction of 342 pounds between a base Euro model and ours.

Prime: 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C (U.S-spec). Bottom: 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C (Euro-spec).

Tuning: Anytime a hot European automobile comes stateside, we’re often pessimistic about its tuning. A car’s transition to accommodate “American tastes” almost always ruins the suspension tuning, for example. But lo and behold, the U.S.-industry 4C’s only suspension changes are mild bushing tweaks to account for its heavier curb weight plus a switch from cast-aluminum suspension pieces to steel ones for durability.

Happily, none of the U.S.-spec 4C’s alterations significantly alter the car’s lusty driving experience—even the added mass doesn’t ruin things—and parked side-by-side, most individuals would be challenging-pressed to spot the differences. In truth, we’re keen to concentrate on 4C content shared with both the U.S. and Euro versions: Manual steering that feels definitely wonderful, a stripped-down interior, the (optional) lack of a muffler, the identical 237 turbocharged horsepower, and these saliva-gland-stimulating appears.

Coming to America: What Tends to make the U.S.-Spec Alfa Romeo 4C Special? Really a Lot