Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

On the Arrive Alive website we share information on the need for defensive driving and some rather challenging conditions on our roads. We believe that too few drivers adjust their speed and driving style to the road, traffic and weather conditions. We decided to raise a few questions with safe driving specialist Eugene Herbert specifically with regards to driving in the mountains:

Would you agree that we do not “test” ability to drive mountain passes before licensing drivers and allowing them to drive in mountainous areas?  

Yes a driver should be licenced before attempting to drive mountain passes. A driver should have gained some experience in driving on roads before any attempts are made in mountains.

What in your experience are the major causes of crashes in mountain passes?

The main cause is limited forward vision and positioning for the corners and bends that extends forward vision. A driver begins to look at the inside of the bend without lifting the vision to look through the corner. Drivers are frequently caught out by bends that a sharper than initially thought.

How important is driving experience in navigating dangerous mountain passes?

Driving experience is important in driving on any roads but because of the demanding nature of mountain passes – especially so.

What are the major adjustments required to driving technique when having to drive mountain passes?

Selection of a correct gear for ascents or descents is very important as this will control the speed of the vehicle. Drivers often are reluctant to engage the suitable gear before dealing with any hills and are often caught out trying to engage a lower gear in corners or bends. Forward vision and looking through corners is essential as by doing this it gives the driver the complete picture of how to negotiate a bend etc.

What would be the best suggestions to offer drivers not familiar to driving in mountainous areas when:

-           Driving up the mountain Be especially aware of slow moving trucks that are crawling up or down the mountain pass. Their extremely slow speed often catches or road users out and cause problems

-          Driving down the mountain  Also drive down a maintain pass in the same gear as you would drive up the pass. This will control your speed of decent by engine compression and avoid long periods of braking cause the brakes to over heat

Are there special considerations to take into account with regards to vehicle roadworthiness/ readiness when having to drive in mountainous areas?

An exterior and interior check is essential and the vehicle must be roadworthy with a good service record

Any specific advice or caution when towing a trailer or caravan?

A major concern it descending with a trailer or caravan. Engage the correct gear before the decent to control the speed of decent and use the straight roads for braking to avoid braking in a bend

Also view:

Safe Driving in the Mountains/ Mountain Passes

Defensive Driving and Road Safety

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

On the Arrive Alive website we share information on the need for defensive driving and some rather challenging conditions on our roads. We believe that too few drivers adjust their speed and driving style to the road, traffic and weather conditions. We decided to raise a few questions with safe driving specialist Eugene Herbert specifically with regards to driving in the mountains:

Would you agree that we do not “test” ability to drive mountain passes before licensing drivers and allowing them to drive in mountainous areas?  

Yes a driver should be licenced before attempting to drive mountain passes. A driver should have gained some experience in driving on roads before any attempts are made in mountains.

What in your experience are the major causes of crashes in mountain passes?

The main cause is limited forward vision and positioning for the corners and bends that extends forward vision. A driver begins to look at the inside of the bend without lifting the vision to look through the corner. Drivers are frequently caught out by bends that a sharper than initially thought.

How important is driving experience in navigating dangerous mountain passes?

Driving experience is important in driving on any roads but because of the demanding nature of mountain passes – especially so.

What are the major adjustments required to driving technique when having to drive mountain passes?

Selection of a correct gear for ascents or descents is very important as this will control the speed of the vehicle. Drivers often are reluctant to engage the suitable gear before dealing with any hills and are often caught out trying to engage a lower gear in corners or bends. Forward vision and looking through corners is essential as by doing this it gives the driver the complete picture of how to negotiate a bend etc.

What would be the best suggestions to offer drivers not familiar to driving in mountainous areas when:

-           Driving up the mountain Be especially aware of slow moving trucks that are crawling up or down the mountain pass. Their extremely slow speed often catches or road users out and cause problems

-          Driving down the mountain  Also drive down a maintain pass in the same gear as you would drive up the pass. This will control your speed of decent by engine compression and avoid long periods of braking cause the brakes to over heat

Are there special considerations to take into account with regards to vehicle roadworthiness/ readiness when having to drive in mountainous areas?

An exterior and interior check is essential and the vehicle must be roadworthy with a good service record

Any specific advice or caution when towing a trailer or caravan?

A major concern it descending with a trailer or caravan. Engage the correct gear before the decent to control the speed of decent and use the straight roads for braking to avoid braking in a bend

Also view:

Safe Driving in the Mountains/ Mountain Passes

Defensive Driving and Road Safety

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

On the Arrive Alive website we share information on the need for defensive driving and some rather challenging conditions on our roads. We believe that too few drivers adjust their speed and driving style to the road, traffic and weather conditions. We decided to raise a few questions with safe driving specialist Eugene Herbert specifically with regards to driving in the mountains:

Would you agree that we do not “test” ability to drive mountain passes before licensing drivers and allowing them to drive in mountainous areas?  

Yes a driver should be licenced before attempting to drive mountain passes. A driver should have gained some experience in driving on roads before any attempts are made in mountains.

What in your experience are the major causes of crashes in mountain passes?

The main cause is limited forward vision and positioning for the corners and bends that extends forward vision. A driver begins to look at the inside of the bend without lifting the vision to look through the corner. Drivers are frequently caught out by bends that a sharper than initially thought.

How important is driving experience in navigating dangerous mountain passes?

Driving experience is important in driving on any roads but because of the demanding nature of mountain passes – especially so.

What are the major adjustments required to driving technique when having to drive mountain passes?

Selection of a correct gear for ascents or descents is very important as this will control the speed of the vehicle. Drivers often are reluctant to engage the suitable gear before dealing with any hills and are often caught out trying to engage a lower gear in corners or bends. Forward vision and looking through corners is essential as by doing this it gives the driver the complete picture of how to negotiate a bend etc.

What would be the best suggestions to offer drivers not familiar to driving in mountainous areas when:

-           Driving up the mountain Be especially aware of slow moving trucks that are crawling up or down the mountain pass. Their extremely slow speed often catches or road users out and cause problems

-          Driving down the mountain  Also drive down a maintain pass in the same gear as you would drive up the pass. This will control your speed of decent by engine compression and avoid long periods of braking cause the brakes to over heat

Are there special considerations to take into account with regards to vehicle roadworthiness/ readiness when having to drive in mountainous areas?

An exterior and interior check is essential and the vehicle must be roadworthy with a good service record

Any specific advice or caution when towing a trailer or caravan?

A major concern it descending with a trailer or caravan. Engage the correct gear before the decent to control the speed of decent and use the straight roads for braking to avoid braking in a bend

Also view:

Safe Driving in the Mountains/ Mountain Passes

Defensive Driving and Road Safety

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

On the Arrive Alive website we share information on the need for defensive driving and some rather challenging conditions on our roads. We believe that too few drivers adjust their speed and driving style to the road, traffic and weather conditions. We decided to raise a few questions with safe driving specialist Eugene Herbert specifically with regards to driving in the mountains:

Would you agree that we do not “test” ability to drive mountain passes before licensing drivers and allowing them to drive in mountainous areas?  

Yes a driver should be licenced before attempting to drive mountain passes. A driver should have gained some experience in driving on roads before any attempts are made in mountains.

What in your experience are the major causes of crashes in mountain passes?

The main cause is limited forward vision and positioning for the corners and bends that extends forward vision. A driver begins to look at the inside of the bend without lifting the vision to look through the corner. Drivers are frequently caught out by bends that a sharper than initially thought.

How important is driving experience in navigating dangerous mountain passes?

Driving experience is important in driving on any roads but because of the demanding nature of mountain passes – especially so.

What are the major adjustments required to driving technique when having to drive mountain passes?

Selection of a correct gear for ascents or descents is very important as this will control the speed of the vehicle. Drivers often are reluctant to engage the suitable gear before dealing with any hills and are often caught out trying to engage a lower gear in corners or bends. Forward vision and looking through corners is essential as by doing this it gives the driver the complete picture of how to negotiate a bend etc.

What would be the best suggestions to offer drivers not familiar to driving in mountainous areas when:

-           Driving up the mountain Be especially aware of slow moving trucks that are crawling up or down the mountain pass. Their extremely slow speed often catches or road users out and cause problems

-          Driving down the mountain  Also drive down a maintain pass in the same gear as you would drive up the pass. This will control your speed of decent by engine compression and avoid long periods of braking cause the brakes to over heat

Are there special considerations to take into account with regards to vehicle roadworthiness/ readiness when having to drive in mountainous areas?

An exterior and interior check is essential and the vehicle must be roadworthy with a good service record

Any specific advice or caution when towing a trailer or caravan?

A major concern it descending with a trailer or caravan. Engage the correct gear before the decent to control the speed of decent and use the straight roads for braking to avoid braking in a bend

Also view:

Safe Driving in the Mountains/ Mountain Passes

Defensive Driving and Road Safety

Do we have the awareness needed to adjust driving style in the mountains?

More active style from 2015 Mitsubishi ASX

;

• Exterior enhancements up style factor


• Revised CVT improves fuel economy


• ASX success set to continue in South Africa

20 JANUARY 2015 - The Mitsubishi ASX compact crossover is tackling the 2015 model year with a number of design and equipment updates, enhancing value and keeping in line with market trends.

Born out of core Mitsubishi brand values including reliability, integrity and practicality, the ASX (Active Smart Crossover) now features an enhanced, sleeker exterior look matched by an improved centre console design with a more upmarket feel on the inside.

All derivatives benefit from new black roof rails, chrome highlights inside and out, tinted windows and emergency stop signal brake lights. On GLX and GLS derivatives, new LED daytime running lights highlight redesigned front fog lamp surrounds, and new 17-inch alloy wheels add pizzazz to the side profile.

A bold new Lightning Blue paint hue is also available, allowing the striking design to be further exhibited. On the mechanical side, an updated CVT system enhances driveability and lowers fuel consumption in the automatic model.

“The ASX represented a new market for the Mitsubishi brand when we originally launched it in South Africa in 2011, where our renowned SUV roots could be experienced by a new buying audience for the brand,” comments Mitsubishi Motors South Africa COO, Wynand Pretorius.

“ASX has done well for us and with the 2015 model year enhancements, is set to continue to competitively attract younger, more upwardly-mobile buyers to our brand – it’;s a vehicle which possesses the SUV appeal and driving style valued so highly by South Africans, wrapped in the compact proportions and easy-to-drive nature most commonly experienced in compact hatchbacks.”

Pricing on the 2015 Mitsubishi ASX models remains ultimately competitive as well, and in the United States, the ASX has been named as one of the authoritative Kelley Blue Book’;s ’;10 Most Affordable SUVs’;.

ASX virtues continue unabated

Continuing as a 5-model range, the ASX line-up features GL, GLX and GLS derivatives, all powered by Mitsubishi’;s trusted 2.0-litre normally-aspirated petrol engine. The multi-point fuel injection MPi unit produces 110 kW at 6 000 rpm and 197 Nm at 4 200 rpm.

All derivatives are front-wheel drive, 3 of which feature a 5-speed manual gearbox, alongside the 2 range-topping GLS automatics which feature a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) which has the ability to simulate a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

For 2015, the CVT in particular has received extra attention. The most notable technical design change was made to CVT internals, where a larger-spectrum lock-up range provides for greater driving pleasure and enhanced fuel economy due to the bigger selection of theoretical ‘gear ratios’; available to the driver in auto mode, adaptive to driver input and driving style. As with the existing CVT derivative, manual shift mode is available, allowing the driver to manually override the transmission with 6 simulated gear ratios. NVH reduction has also been achieved with the new CVT.

Fuel economy is admirable on all derivatives, the manual models realising an average of 7.5-litres per 100 km on the combined cycle with carbon emissions of 175 g/km. The CVT model’;s fuel consumption is now lower at 7.4-litres per 100 km, with carbon emissions of 178 g/km. A 63-litre fuel tank ensures long driving ranges – around 800 km on typical mixed driving.

Embodying SUV design and practicality, the Mitsubishi ASX has excellent visibility for the driver and great agility with 195 mm of ground clearance available. The raised ground clearance means the ASX is equally at home on tarred city roads as well as out-of-town dirt roads, where superior ride comfort also contributes to a can-do attitude, thanks to the suspension design. Front suspension is an independent MacPherson setup with a stabiliser bar, and at the rear a multi-link independent system is employed, along with a stabiliser bar. The suspension configuration results in reduced NVH levels being achieved as well as a smoother ride.

Conducive to holiday trips as much as being expertly practical for the school run, the ASX features a spacious boot with a large, uninhibited opening for easy loading, with 442 litres of boot space available with the rear seats up. When the 60/40 split rear seats are folded down, a total of 1 193 litres are available.

The roomy cabin also features generous head- and leg room for all occupants, as well as ample storage compartments for ultimate practicality.

High specifications for all model grades

All ASX derivatives maintain high levels of standard specification, enhanced for 2015. Most importantly, the Mitsubishi hallmark of no compromise on safety sees all models featuring high safety levels.

The ASX features 5-star Euro NCAP and ANCAP safety ratings thanks to 6 airbags (including a driver’;s knee airbag), ABS with EBD and BAS, as well as Mitsubishi’;s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body construction, whiplash-mitigating seats, a collapsible steering column and brake pedal recession protection. The electric power steering also features an anti-backlash system for smoother and safer steering control.

All ASX derivatives, from the entry level GL to the range topping GLS, are full specification SUVs – perfect for the family.  The list of standard specifications is impressive – even for the entry level GL version.

The ASX 2.0 GL’;s feature highlights include dusk-sensing headlights, rain-sensing wipers, LED tail lights, a rear spoiler, front fog lamps, 16-inch alloy wheels with 215/65 tyres, electric windows all round, electric folding side mirrors, a multi-function leather-bound steering wheel with rake and reach adjustment, manual air conditioning, cruise control, a multi-info trip computer, rear parking sensors, remote central locking and a 6-speaker multi-media audio system which includes CD, radio and USB support as well as Bluetooth and voice control.

The mid-range Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 GLX features enhanced specifications on top of standard GL equipment, including the new LED daytime running lights, new 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/60 tyres, a panoramic glass roof with switchable LED illumination, leather upholstery, electric driver’;s seat adjustment, heated front seats, automatic climate control, heated side mirrors, touch screen radio, a reversing camera and a keyless operation system with one-touch start.

The range-topping ASX 2.0 GLS models raise the bar even higher with the addition of HID headlamps (CVT derivatives only), an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, integrated lights on the side mirrors, Active Stability Control and Electronic Traction Control, and Hill Start Assist for inclined pull-offs. In typical Mitsubishi tradition, the GLS manual is also available as standard with a fully-fledged 9-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium audio system – available as an option on the CVT.

All derivatives in the Mitsubishi ASX range come standard with a 3-year/ 100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/ 90 000 km service plan, linked to service intervals of 15 000 km.

2015 Mitsubishi ASX	Retail price incl. VAT
ASX 2.0 GL	R299 900
ASX 2.0 GLX	R329 900
ASX 2.0 GLS with Rockford Fosgate	R342 900
ASX 2.0 GLS CVT	R354 900
ASX 2.0 GLS CVT with Rockford Fosgate	R364 900

More active style from 2015 Mitsubishi ASX

More active style from 2015 Mitsubishi ASX

;

• Exterior enhancements up style factor


• Revised CVT improves fuel economy


• ASX success set to continue in South Africa

20 JANUARY 2015 - The Mitsubishi ASX compact crossover is tackling the 2015 model year with a number of design and equipment updates, enhancing value and keeping in line with market trends.

Born out of core Mitsubishi brand values including reliability, integrity and practicality, the ASX (Active Smart Crossover) now features an enhanced, sleeker exterior look matched by an improved centre console design with a more upmarket feel on the inside.

All derivatives benefit from new black roof rails, chrome highlights inside and out, tinted windows and emergency stop signal brake lights. On GLX and GLS derivatives, new LED daytime running lights highlight redesigned front fog lamp surrounds, and new 17-inch alloy wheels add pizzazz to the side profile.

A bold new Lightning Blue paint hue is also available, allowing the striking design to be further exhibited. On the mechanical side, an updated CVT system enhances driveability and lowers fuel consumption in the automatic model.

“The ASX represented a new market for the Mitsubishi brand when we originally launched it in South Africa in 2011, where our renowned SUV roots could be experienced by a new buying audience for the brand,” comments Mitsubishi Motors South Africa COO, Wynand Pretorius.

“ASX has done well for us and with the 2015 model year enhancements, is set to continue to competitively attract younger, more upwardly-mobile buyers to our brand – it’;s a vehicle which possesses the SUV appeal and driving style valued so highly by South Africans, wrapped in the compact proportions and easy-to-drive nature most commonly experienced in compact hatchbacks.”

Pricing on the 2015 Mitsubishi ASX models remains ultimately competitive as well, and in the United States, the ASX has been named as one of the authoritative Kelley Blue Book’;s ’;10 Most Affordable SUVs’;.

ASX virtues continue unabated

Continuing as a 5-model range, the ASX line-up features GL, GLX and GLS derivatives, all powered by Mitsubishi’;s trusted 2.0-litre normally-aspirated petrol engine. The multi-point fuel injection MPi unit produces 110 kW at 6 000 rpm and 197 Nm at 4 200 rpm.

All derivatives are front-wheel drive, 3 of which feature a 5-speed manual gearbox, alongside the 2 range-topping GLS automatics which feature a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) which has the ability to simulate a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

For 2015, the CVT in particular has received extra attention. The most notable technical design change was made to CVT internals, where a larger-spectrum lock-up range provides for greater driving pleasure and enhanced fuel economy due to the bigger selection of theoretical ‘gear ratios’; available to the driver in auto mode, adaptive to driver input and driving style. As with the existing CVT derivative, manual shift mode is available, allowing the driver to manually override the transmission with 6 simulated gear ratios. NVH reduction has also been achieved with the new CVT.

Fuel economy is admirable on all derivatives, the manual models realising an average of 7.5-litres per 100 km on the combined cycle with carbon emissions of 175 g/km. The CVT model’;s fuel consumption is now lower at 7.4-litres per 100 km, with carbon emissions of 178 g/km. A 63-litre fuel tank ensures long driving ranges – around 800 km on typical mixed driving.

Embodying SUV design and practicality, the Mitsubishi ASX has excellent visibility for the driver and great agility with 195 mm of ground clearance available. The raised ground clearance means the ASX is equally at home on tarred city roads as well as out-of-town dirt roads, where superior ride comfort also contributes to a can-do attitude, thanks to the suspension design. Front suspension is an independent MacPherson setup with a stabiliser bar, and at the rear a multi-link independent system is employed, along with a stabiliser bar. The suspension configuration results in reduced NVH levels being achieved as well as a smoother ride.

Conducive to holiday trips as much as being expertly practical for the school run, the ASX features a spacious boot with a large, uninhibited opening for easy loading, with 442 litres of boot space available with the rear seats up. When the 60/40 split rear seats are folded down, a total of 1 193 litres are available.

The roomy cabin also features generous head- and leg room for all occupants, as well as ample storage compartments for ultimate practicality.

High specifications for all model grades

All ASX derivatives maintain high levels of standard specification, enhanced for 2015. Most importantly, the Mitsubishi hallmark of no compromise on safety sees all models featuring high safety levels.

The ASX features 5-star Euro NCAP and ANCAP safety ratings thanks to 6 airbags (including a driver’;s knee airbag), ABS with EBD and BAS, as well as Mitsubishi’;s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body construction, whiplash-mitigating seats, a collapsible steering column and brake pedal recession protection. The electric power steering also features an anti-backlash system for smoother and safer steering control.

All ASX derivatives, from the entry level GL to the range topping GLS, are full specification SUVs – perfect for the family.  The list of standard specifications is impressive – even for the entry level GL version.

The ASX 2.0 GL’;s feature highlights include dusk-sensing headlights, rain-sensing wipers, LED tail lights, a rear spoiler, front fog lamps, 16-inch alloy wheels with 215/65 tyres, electric windows all round, electric folding side mirrors, a multi-function leather-bound steering wheel with rake and reach adjustment, manual air conditioning, cruise control, a multi-info trip computer, rear parking sensors, remote central locking and a 6-speaker multi-media audio system which includes CD, radio and USB support as well as Bluetooth and voice control.

The mid-range Mitsubishi ASX 2.0 GLX features enhanced specifications on top of standard GL equipment, including the new LED daytime running lights, new 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/60 tyres, a panoramic glass roof with switchable LED illumination, leather upholstery, electric driver’;s seat adjustment, heated front seats, automatic climate control, heated side mirrors, touch screen radio, a reversing camera and a keyless operation system with one-touch start.

The range-topping ASX 2.0 GLS models raise the bar even higher with the addition of HID headlamps (CVT derivatives only), an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, integrated lights on the side mirrors, Active Stability Control and Electronic Traction Control, and Hill Start Assist for inclined pull-offs. In typical Mitsubishi tradition, the GLS manual is also available as standard with a fully-fledged 9-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium audio system – available as an option on the CVT.

All derivatives in the Mitsubishi ASX range come standard with a 3-year/ 100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/ 90 000 km service plan, linked to service intervals of 15 000 km.

2015 Mitsubishi ASX	Retail price incl. VAT
ASX 2.0 GL	R299 900
ASX 2.0 GLX	R329 900
ASX 2.0 GLS with Rockford Fosgate	R342 900
ASX 2.0 GLS CVT	R354 900
ASX 2.0 GLS CVT with Rockford Fosgate	R364 900

More active style from 2015 Mitsubishi ASX

Volvo V60 T6 R-Design and style Tested: Wants More Polestar

Instrumented Test

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Proving racing’;s worth, in reverse.

The inherent balance of an inline 6-cylinder engine makes it attractive to drivers like us, and it contributed to the legendary status of historic cars such as the Nissan Skyline, many Jaguars, and numerous BMWs. The unbent 6 is a dying breed, even though, becoming a lot more uncommon each and every model year, sort of like station wagons and clutch pedals.

Volvo has pretty significantly given up on clutch pedals but nonetheless gives both a wagon and a straight-6. The latter, we’re told, will continue indefinitely even as the Chinese-owned Swedish brand has sworn fealty to a future that is all about 3s and 4s and hybrids.

The only way to get a Volvo V60 with the 3.-liter turbocharged inline-6 (rather than the 2.-liter Drive-E turbo 4 or the 2.5-liter turbo 5-cylinder) is to select the prime T6 R-Design and style model and all-wheel drive. That vehicle, as tested right here, also wears a Polestar badge on its tail, referencing the common computer software upgrade from Volvo’s racing companion that lifts output to 325 horsepower and 354 lb-ft, compared to 300 and 325 for the very same engine as installed in the S80 sedan.

Midyear Mojo

The auto tested right here is marketed as a 2015.5 model, which means that Volvo upgraded the in-dash infotainment technique to incorporate some of the functions on the all-new XC90, such as 3G connectivity (Sensus Connect) and Sensus Navigation (which can get routes sent from your phone or computer and involves cost-free map updates via 2025), plus power lumbar help for the seats. Otherwise, it is pretty significantly the same as the 2015 model that we ranked third in an earlier comparison test against the Audi Allroad and the BMW 3-series wagon. Aiming to show that these Euro-wagons make good options to crossovers, the comparison wasn’t quite apples to apples—Volvo did not but have the V60 Cross Nation model that will match up a lot more directly against the Allroad, as it packs a raised suspension, significantly less power, and a decrease value tag. The T6 R-Design truly has a lowered suspension and a a lot more overall performance-oriented mission. That is why it types the basis for the limited-edition, Polestar-branded models of the S/V60, which have proved common adequate that Volvo now plans to make a lot more of them than it initially announced.

The sticker on this instance bumped right up to close to $ 50,000 with only 3 possibilities: $ 925 for a blind-spot warning method, $ 750 for 19-inch wheels with summer functionality tires, and $ 1550 for the Climate package that puts heaters in the seats (front and rear), the steering wheel, the windshield, and the washer-fluid nozzles. It would take an additional $ 12,000 to get into a higher-efficiency Polestar wagon and more than $ 10,000 added to buy the Polestar sedan we tested recently.

The variations in between the T6 R-Style and the Polestar do not look that enormous at the track. This auto got to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds versus 4.5 for the Polestar sedan, which has 20 much more horsepower and weighs 117 pounds less. Our wagon ran the quarter-mile in 13.5 seconds at 105 mph, only .4-second and 2-mph slower than the Polestar. We managed .88 g on the skidpad versus the Polestar’s .91, and the wagon stopped from 70 mph in only 157 feet (8 much more than the Polestar sedan). This latter figure was a pleasant surprise—the comparison-test V60 triggered complaints of a squishy pedal and required 20 feet longer to stop. Meanwhile, the complete-bore Polestar version of this automobile gets 6-pot Brembo calipers up front as one particular of its hardware upgrades.

What these numbers do not inform you is that the T6 R-Style does not really feel as sweet and responsive as the Polestar edition. The steering responds much less promptly, and shifts from the 6-speed transmission really feel lazier. The normal tune on the Haldex all-wheel-drive system likewise requires a moment prior to transferring torque to the rear axle, contributing to energy understeer and reluctant turn-in. General, the T6 R-Design and style feels like a hot-rodded version of the V60, a little ponderous and clunky, whilst the Polestar has a much more refined, sophisticated tune that feels as smooth and balanced as its straight-6.

Follow that Star

The infotainment upgrades function effectively enough even though relying on the exact same hardware for the interface (who else nonetheless has a full phone keypad on the dash?). It even appears to respond more promptly than before, addressing one of the complaints we had in last year’s comparison test. And the motorized lumbar improves on the seats, which we’ve lauded for their mix of assistance and extended-variety comfort. 1 way to appear at all this is to say the T6 R-Design comes fairly darned close to the Polestar version’s functionality at a 20- to 25-% discount. That’s a lot of cash you could save although obtaining most of the goodness.

We don’;t forget asking yourself when we very first drove the Polestar edition if some of the changes—like stiffer suspension bushings and mounts—shouldn’t be regular kit on the T6 R-Design. These components, unfortunately, would be hard for an owner to retrofit they’re installed in Volvo’s factory prior to the vehicles being shipped over to Polestar for further ministrations.

Just before Volvo lets its marketing department decide that motorsports does not match the corporate mission (yet the around-the-globe sailing Volvo Ocean Race does?), it ought to think about other possible rewards of a connection with a racing group. The racers look to know one thing about suspension tuning that the production side could find out from—the only part of their chassis answer that may be prohibitively high-priced is a set of shock absorbers from Öhlins. Recalibrating the transmission and all-wheel-drive technique in the Polestar style shouldn’t cost a lot and would go a extended way toward optimizing this car for the type of buyers who may possibly otherwise shop 1 of the German brands.

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Volvo V60 T6 R-Design and style Tested: Wants More Polestar

2015 Nissan Murano Initial Drive: Bold Style with Substance

Very first Drive Assessment

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Nissan’;s new crossover resonates with us.

When Nissan showed its bold Resonance concept at the 2013 Detroit auto show, there was no query that the car forecast the third-generation Murano. That automobile is now right here, appearing in production metal and plastic with most of the show car’s intent intact. Nissan execs are proud of their new “flagship crossover,” as they contact the 2015 Murano, throwing about additional clichés like “concept vehicle for the street” and speaking about how a lot the interior resembles a “lounge on wheels.” Which is by an appropriate measure significantly less temerarious than the concept’s press release, which proclaimed that designers had drawn inspiration from “the futuristic allure of hypersonic travel.”

Alas, travel in the new Murano is slower—and decidedly familiar. Nissan’s 2-decades-old VQ engine drives the wheels through a continuously variable transmission, just like each and every Murano to come ahead of. Displacement remains at 3.5 liters, as does the Murano’s 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Whilst we retain a fondness for the naturally aspirated VQ, in this era of ubiquitous turbocharging and rampant power escalation, 260 horses no longer seems like a lot. It is enough, nevertheless, to adequately motivate the Murano, at least for these drivers looking to basically get from A to B. The transmission remains the weak link for enthusiasts, despite the fact that the Xtronic CVT now has a manual shift mode that imitates a standard automatic. We may possibly locate this more rewarding if the Murano offered shift paddles instead of requiring the driver to tug at the console-mounted shifter.

With its sheetmetal curving differently for 2015, the Murano’s dimensions and priorities have shifted a bit. While the wheelbase remains unchanged at 111.2 inches, length increases by 2.9 inches to 192.8. Cargo capacity benefits, growing to 39.6 cubic feet. The Murano is also wider and lower, losing some ground clearance and seeing its angle of strategy reduce by more than half. Nissan has ultimately come to the clear conclusion that off-road capacity has dropped beneath even AM radio on crossover buyers’ lists of should-have characteristics. Predictably then, the Murano no longer involves a locking mode for its front-wheel-biased all-wheel-drive program, or even a torque-split show like the one integrated in the Pathfinder.

It is on the Edge . . . of Styling

For the very first time because its original launch 12 years ago, nevertheless, the Murano is on the cutting edge of styling. Oddly adequate, it most resembles the fundamental design of the BMW i3, even though larger and a lot more totally realized. So the Murano is not precisely attractive, but it is various. Sculpted sides and taillights that resemble boomerangs give it an athleticism that is somewhat at odds with a bulbous front finish. The “floating roof” from the concept is executed by signifies of several black plastic exterior trim pieces that appear like a triumph of kind more than function. But Nissan has managed to drop the Murano’s claimed coefficient of drag from .37 to .31, in part by designing the hood such that it kicks up at its trailing edge, thereby routing air smoothly up more than the roof.

We noticed this simply because the lip sits so far forward of the windshield that the cowl is massive, which looks rather strange from the driver’s seat. So function clearly had its spot at the table the Murano’s EPA combined fuel-economy rating sees a dramatic improvement from 20 mpg to 24 regardless of the quantity of driven wheels. This reflects a clear corporate commitment to boosting mileage. Nissan had the biggest improvement in typical fuel economy of any carmaker from 2012 to 2013, according to a current EPA report.

Like other Nissans, the new Murano has also slimmed down, to an typical stated weight of less than 3900 pounds. The 4 trim levels (the familiar S, SV, SL, and a new Platinum designation that replaces the old leading-of-the-line LE) are each and every offered with either front- or all-wheel drive listed weights range from as little as 33 pounds lighter for the base model to as significantly as 146 pounds lighter for the 4-wheel-drive SL.

Significantly less for The Jetsons than It Seems

From behind the wheel, the Murano appears less of a futuristic notion than just a genuinely nice Nissan. The switchgear is common Nissan stuff, and the “NASA-inspired Zero Gravity seats” from its Altima platform-mate are now standard on the Murano, both in the front and second row. Even though they may possibly not rank with Tang and Velcro, they are indeed comfy.

The interior is trimmed with unapologetically plastic accents in a single of 2 patterns that are tied to the interior colour option. One particular resembles nothing at all so much as modern bathroom tile, while the other appears similar to the silver wood that graces particular Mercedes-Benz S-classes. Novel, yes, but both finishes are far a lot more convincing and aesthetically pleasing than the fake carbon fiber or metal-appear plastic that many automakers use to connote upmarket aspirations.

Acoustic laminated glass and plenty of sound deadening contribute to a quiet cabin, 1 that is mostly free of road noise. To the average purchaser, this is exactly where the new Murano tends to make its ideal justification as a premium item. An upgraded infotainment method with smartphone integration and new safety technologies like emergency braking and a sonar-primarily based frontal-crash warning technique tick all-essential boxes on the attributes sheet.

The Murano is priced appropriate on leading of its bigger, 3-row Pathfinder sibling, beginning at $ 30,445, with a leading-of-the-heap Platinum grazing the $ 40,000 mark. All-wheel-drive models command $ 1600 much more. Nissan would have us think that all that design and style is worth the money we might posit that the Murano’s superior driving dynamics are far more deserving of your tough-earned dollars. We are impressed with the nicely weighted steering, the well-damped suspension, and the firm brake pedal. Just as its predecessor, the new Murano does a good job of toeing that fine line in between isolating and involving. Now that is a notion that truly resonates.

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5 Cool Rolls-Royce Design and style Information, As Illustrated by the 2014 Wraith Coupe

What tends to make Rolls-Royces unique, besides astronomical price tag tags, hedonistic luxury, minuscule production numbers, and outsized presence? Clever specifics, of course! We had a 2014 Wraith coupe in the workplace this week, and we believed it would be enjoyable to show some of what Goodwood place into its cars to make them unique. Enjoy—preferably with Mozart’s Flute Concerto No. 2 in D Significant playing in the background.

Bent-Wood Door-Panel Trim: Currently exclusive to the Wraith, these gorgeous wood door panels are simply gorgeous. Every section is grain-matched—with the grains angled at precisely 55 degrees—to the a single fitted to the opposite door. Interested? That’ll be $ 12,500, please.

Built-In Umbrellas: Fitted as normal gear, these umbrellas function inlaid “RR” logos on their handles and deploy from inside the front fenders at the push of a button. Accessible when the doors are open, this function debuted on the Phantom, where they pop out of the doors themselves. They are ejected with surprising alacrity.

Electronic-Closing Doors: Indulgent, maybe, but fairly helpful when the portals in query are wide-opening—and really heavy—suicide doors. In the Wraith, the driver and passenger can press and hold a button situated close to every quarter-windows to motor the doors closed. The driver can also control the passenger’s aperture, as nicely as the power-operated trunklid. We’re quite sure the doors have sensors so they won’t chop off an errant paparazzo’s arm, but we have been also chicken to truly test it lest we bruise the Wraith’s $ 9450 paint job.

Weighted Rolls-Royce Wheel Caps: One particular of the far better-identified Rolls-Royce information, the wheel centers are weighted so the “RR” logo never suffers the indignity of becoming displayed upside-down. Soon after all, you’d never see a member of the Royal Family members in such a compromising position.

Starlight Headliner: We’re split more than regardless of whether Rolls’ glitzy headliner is Lincoln Town Auto limo cheesy or Fifth Avenue cool. But it’s certainly impressive provided how considerably time and effort go into the hand placement of 1340 fiber-optic nodes in the Wraith’s leather headliner. The choice costs a staggering $ 12,925.

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(Bonus) Spirit of Ecstasy: A Rolls-Royce isn’t a Rolls-Royce with no the Spirit of Ecstasy perched in her usual location above the iconic grille. As with all contemporary Rolls-Royces, the Wraith’s lady can be set to automatically lower into the body when the auto is parked. (If you select to leave her in place, she will speedily retract if tampered with.) What’s a lot more, the settings menu in the 10.3-inch central infotainment display will let you to raise or lower the ornament although on the move, which is each hugely entertaining and massively distracting. Wraith buyers can choose from the common chrome Spirit, one particular with an LED ring at its base that lights when the car is parked ($ 3635), a gold-plated version ($ 9100), or a crystal-like polycarbonate instance that glows with embedded LED lighting ($ 7100).

5 Cool Rolls-Royce Design and style Information, As Illustrated by the 2014 Wraith Coupe