SPORTS CAR

Mid-Engine Marvel: C8 Corvette Debuts

July 19, 2019 by admin 2 Comments

The all-new Corvette on stage in California Thursday night.

Fifty years after NASA launched its first moonshot, GM follows with one of its own. An all-new Chevrolet Corvette was unveiled last night, the first mid-engine version of this super Chevy. An old military aircraft hangar in Tustin, California, served as the venue for the eighth-generation (C8) Corvette’s debut, with NASA astronauts, company workers and officials, and media in attendance.

New Ground for a Standard Bearer

The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette not only breaks new ground, but it underscores GM’s investment in cutting-edge technologies, including those that will help the company transition to autonomous vehicles. Not surprisingly, the new Corvette keeps one important tradition alive: it will once again be powered by a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine, a rarity in a segment where boosting with superchargers and turbochargers represents the standard.

The engine, though, is new (dubbed LS2) and designed specifically for the Corvette. With the available Z51 package, it has an output of 495 horsepower and 470 foot-pounds of torque, and works with a Tremec-supplied 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. This is the first time in decades a Corvette debuts without a manual transmission. We do not know whether one will be offered in the future.

How fast will the Corvette Stingray go? GM says it has an estimated 0-60 mph time of under 3 seconds, placing it in lofty company. Models such as the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, Ferrari F12tdf, and even the current Chevrolet Corvette Z06 all slip just under the 3-second threshold. Remember, this speed number applies to the base model — GM made no mention of the other models which are certain to follow.

Key aspects of this model include large side air intakes for engine cooling and aerodynamic performance. You’ll also note the door, hood and hatch releases are hidden.

C8 Corvette Dissection

GM’s hour-long news conference followed a half-hour primer of all things Corvette. Much information about the C8 Corvette was shared, although a few things were not mentioned. Among the highlights are the following:

1. Price and ordering details. GM threw open the order books for the 2020 Corvette, allowing shoppers to “request a reserve” of the new model. Production begins late this year at the company’s Bowling Green, Kentucky, manufacturing plant, with the first deliveries taking place in early 2020. Although pricing details weren’t delineated, the automaker stunned everyone by mentioning the starting price will begin under $60,000. That price point will play a big role in keeping the Corvette attainable for enthusiasts.

2. Slightly larger and heavier than the outgoing model. GM employs many weight-saving measures with the all-new Corvette, including greater use of aluminum, carbon fiber, composite materials, fiberglass, and steel. However, the C8 gains a half-inch between the wheels and is nearly 5.5 inches longer overall. It is slightly heavier too, weighing 3,366 pounds to the current 3,298 pounds of the C7. The cabin is a bit larger too with an extra inch of seat play possible.

3. Rear-wheel drive only. Rumors that the new Corvette would feature all-wheel drive, at least as an option, apparently was just that…a rumor. Power is routed to the rear wheels in the traditional Corvette way. But the debut involved the Corvette Stingray only with no mention of other models certain to follow. A twin-turbo V8 has long been touted as a possible option, likely to power a future ZR1 model. We also know that some type of electrified variant is in the works. If a hybrid Corvette does appear, there’s always a possibility some power could be routed to the front wheels, making it an all-wheel-drive model. One more point: for the first time the Corvette will be manufactured with available right-hand drive, expanding the Corvette’s range to such countries as Japan and the United Kingdom.

Take note of the placement of the quad-tip exhaust pipes.

4. A state-of-the-art suspension system. A sports car is nothing without cutting-edge steering and handling. The 2020 Corvette will showcase several improvements, including coil-over dampers, an upgraded electric steering system, and electric-powered brakes. An important feature is an automatic suspension lift for the front end — this system raises the car’s front end by two inches, helping the Corvette avoid pavement scraping. Importantly, the system can be programmed to store as many as 1,000 locations tracked by GPS. This means if you’re accessing a steep driveway known for scraping the front end, the car will automatically lift as you make your approach thanks to your pre-set.

5. An all-new interior. We’ve seen Corvette interiors improve over the years. Early on, Corvette cabins were relatively disappointing, not rising to the level of a premium sports car. For 2020, Chevrolet promises to deliver improvements, including real metal inlays, cut-and-sewn leather, steel speaker grilles, and available carbon-fiber trim. Customers will have a choice of six interior color themes (along with a dozen exterior colors). A long row of buttons on the center console will control most interior functions. Three types of seat choices, digital displays, and a 14-speaker Bose audio system are among this model’s features.

6. Stellar storage space at the ready. With the engine sitting in the middle, much interior space is now free. Indeed, the cockpit is placed 16.5 inches forward over the C7 Corvette. In front and again the back, there is a pair of trunks, offering a total of 12.6 cubic feet of storage space. GM says the C8 Corvette can hold two sets of golf clubs or several pieces of luggage.

Multiple color choices, two stitching options, and three available seat designs
accompany the all-new Corvette Stingray.

The Future is Here

Zora Arkus-Duntov, known as the “father of the Corvette,” long had a mid-engine Corvette in mind. Indeed, several prototypes were built, but Arkus-Duntov never saw a production version. He died in 1996.

We’ve now gotten our first glimpse of the new Corvette, one that takes this iconic sports car in a fresh direction, even as demand for such models falls. The C8 Corvette represents GM’s moonshot, what the automaker hopes mirror the “right stuff” that propelled NASA to lunar greatness.

See Also — So Long, Farewell to the C7 Corvette

Photos copyright GM Corp. Special thanks to Automotive News, which supplied inspiration for many of the details outlined herein.

The History of the Cadillac XLR

June 12, 2019 by admin 1 Comment

Declining Cadillac sales in the 1990s forced General Motors to take a hard look at its luxury division and that marque’s model offerings. New models were soon conceived including an Evoq concept, a two-door roadster that made its debut at a 1999 Detroit auto show. Five years later the Cadillac XLR was introduced, a model underpinned by the same platform used by the Chevrolet Corvette.

From Concept to Reality

The 1999 North American International Auto Show in Detroit featured the Cadillac Evoq, a concept vehicle created by a design team headed by Wayne Cherry, Vice President of General Motors Design. Cherry oversaw the design of several other noteworthy vehicles including the Chevrolet SSR, Pontiac Solstice, and the Cadillac Sixteen concept.

The Evoq concept was based on the fifth-generation Corvette platform, a rear-wheel-drive roadster with a retractable hardtop roof. The Evoq featured Cadillac’s Northstar V-8 engine and was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission.

Auto show attendee reaction to the Cadillac Evoq was highly favorable with GM soon committing to build the new model. However, the eventual production vehicle was not released until 2004 when the sixth-generation Chevrolet Corvette was also introduced. Like the Corvette, the Cadillac XLR was built at the Corvette manufacturing plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Cadillac XLR Essentials

General Motors outfitted the Cadillac XLR with a 4.6-liter V-8 engine. Its Northstar engine was found in other Cadillac models of that era and differed from the 6.2-liter V-8 that powered the Corvette. The XLR engine was rated at 320 horsepower and 310 foot-pounds of torque, and was teamed with a five-speed automatic transmission. Beginning in 2007, a six-speed automatic transmission was made standard.

The XLR and Corvette shared the same hydroformed frame-rail architecture, with the XLR utilizing components from both the C5 and C6 Corvette. Like the Corvette, the Cadillac XLR featured aggressive styling with a long hood and a chiseled body, with 18-inch wheels and outfitted with clustered quad exhaust pipes. Its base price was approximately $20,000 above the Corvette, starting out near $77,000.

Standard equipment with the Cadillac XLR included keyless entry, a tilt and telescoping steering column, a heated steering wheel, steering wheel mounted controls, power accessories including a power trunk lid, eight-way power seats, and dual climate control. Leather trim was used throughout the cabin on seating surfaces, across the dashboard, on the doors, and around the steering wheel. Alloy and wood trim accents were standard.

Cadillac XLR-V

Beginning in 2006, Cadillac introduced a V-Series model to the XLR line. The V-Series is a line of high-performance models that were also found in special versions of the CTS and STS sedans. The XLR-V was priced from just under $100,000.

The Cadillac XLR-V was powered by a 4.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine making 443 horsepower and 413 foot-pounds of torque. It was teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission that could also be shifted manually. This model featured magnetic ride control and an enhanced suspension system. Key amenities included temperature-adjusted seats with heating and cooling features, Zingana wood trim, and aluminum accents.

End of the Road

After a six-year model run, GM announced in 2009 that the Cadillac XLR would be discontinued. GM had also stopped making the 4.4-liter V-8 engine for the V-Series, “due to market conditions.” The timing of the XLR’s demise coincided with GM’s bankruptcy and restructuring, a move that enabled the automaker to quit making low volume and unprofitable vehicles across its multiple brand lines.

Approximately 15,400 XLRs were sold for its entire model run. The vehicle was considered less refined than competing European models including the Mercedes-Benz SL500 and the Jaguar XKR. Its cramped interior, uninspiring steering feedback, and large gaps between some interior panels were among the deficiencies cited by industry analysts.

Cadillac’s flagship roadster is no more, but its high-end performance lives on in other vehicles. The V-Series continues in the CTS, a line of vehicles powered by Corvette’s supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine.

Photos copyright General Motors Company.

End of the Road: Audi TT

May 24, 2019 by admin 5 Comments

The TTS is one enhanced version of the Audi TT.

Car models come and go, although there are a few with staying power. The Chevrolet Suburban, Toyota Corolla, and the Ford F Series are among those models that have been around for a half century or more.

The Audi TT launched nearly 20 years ago, a 2+2 sport coupe and roadster that’s sold in small numbers. In fact, according to company data, it has been a year since Audi sold more than 200 per month in the U.S. Among its strongest sales years were 2007 and 2008, when Audi could regularly count on sales of 400 to 600 units per month. Yet, those numbers remain quite small, which is why the current TT will be the last one.

But it isn’t just low sales contributing to the TT’s demise. Audi is in the midst of a historic shift, one which will bring more than 20 electrified vehicles to the market in the next few years, including several pure-electric vehicles. Audi is betting big that the EV market will be both desirable and sustainable, thus the TT will eventually be replaced by one of these new models reports Automotive News Europe.

As a tribute to the Audi TT, we’ve assembled the following key facts about this car.

1. At first, it was a concept. Like every other production vehicle, the Audi TT was first a concept vehicle. Volkswagen’s California design studio developed the car, the same team that gave us the VW Concept One, which became the Volkswagen New Beetle. In 1995 at the Frankfurt Auto Show, the TT made its debut.

2. It has an Auto Union connection. Audi enthusiasts know that the four interlocking rings of the company’s logo point to this company’s history. Four separate marques united in 1932 to form Auto Union, which later was renamed Audi. The TT was inspired by the Auto Union racing cars of the 1930s (which featured unpainted aluminum bodies) as well as the Porsche RSKs of the 1950s. It also took inspiration from the Audi Avus concept supercar, which itself was never built.

An exquisite design and beautiful materials mark this model’s interior.

3. The first generation rolls out. It may seem hard to believe, but as the new millennium rolled in, Audi offered just three models in the U.S. The 2000 TT became its fourth model, a front-engine and front-wheel-drive model based on Volkwagen’s Group A platform (also shared by the VW Golf, Jetta, and Scirocco). All models have a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine making 180 horsepower paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. From the onset, Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system was optional. It came with extra boost too — 225 horsepower.

4. The roadster rolls out. Shop for a used 2000 TT and you’ll find the coupe only. That’s because the roadster rolled out in 2001. The drop-top version has accompanied the hard-top coupe since then.

5. More power, larger engine. Audi kept the base engine throughout this model’s first-generation run. But it also introduced a second engine with a displacement of 3.2 liters. This V6, introduced in 2004, produces 250 horsepower and comes with the quattro model only. A six-speed dual-clutch transmission sends power to the wheels. Also that year, the standard engine now works with a six-speed manual gearbox.

6. The second generation rolls out. No 2007 Audi TT was produced as the automaker readied the introduction of the all-new and second-generation 2008 Audi TT. This model is longer and slightly wider than its predecessor and comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 200 horsepower and paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. The V6 continues with the same performance numbers as before. A TTS version debuted in 2009, boosting the base engine’s power to 265 horsepower.

The TT is best used as a two-seater with the rear seat folded for extra storage space.

7. Let’s try five cylinders! Beginning in 2013, a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-five-cylinder engine launched the performance TT RS variant. This one produces 360 horsepower and 343 foot-pounds of torque and works with a six-speed manual transmission.

8. The final generation. Audi released the third-generation TT for the 2016 model year. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 220 horsepower is standard for this all-wheel-drive model. A six-speed dual-clutch transmission sends power to the wheels. The TTS variant makes 292 horsepower from the same engine. In 2018, the high-performance RS made its debut, producing a whopping 400 horsepower.

The End is Nigh

Audi hasn’t officially confirmed the end date for the TT and its variants, but the eulogies are already being written. What was originally a sport coupe and roadster with token performance has arguably become a performance maven, especially in RS guise.

See Also — Audi Q7: Benchmark for the Luxury Set

2016 Audi TTS coupe photos copyright Audi AG.

The Brief Model Run of the Saturn Sky

May 10, 2019 by admin

The Saturn brand is no more, officially shut down in 2010m ending its 25-year history. Originally a wholly-owned subsidiary of General Motors, the company was later absorbed by GM and managed with its other car brands. Several models defined Saturn including the original S-Series compact line and its VUE crossover. Before the brand was canceled, a roadster was introduced to its line up. That car, the Saturn Sky, had a brief model run of just three years.

Roadster Background

Loosely defined, a roadster is a two-passenger open-top vehicle outfitted with a powerful engine and rear-wheel drive. In the early days of driving, the Nomenclature Division of the Society of Automotive Engineers described the roadster as, “an open car seating two or three. It may have additional seats on running boards or in the rear deck.”

The earliest roadsters included the Ford Model T, Stearns 45, the Austin 7 and Cadillac’s V-16. In later years the MG TC, the Triumph TR3 and the Alfa Romeo Spider also fit that description. Contemporary models have included the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Fiat 124 Spyder, Honda’s S2000 and BMW’s Z4 M Roadster. When needing a car and looking for a loan, you have some terrific models to consider.

GM Kappa Platform

General Motors developed an all-new vehicle platform to underpin a new family of small cars in the early 2000s. Its subcompact Kappa platform was designed with an independent suspension and specifically created to support a family of roadsters for multiple GM brands.

Those vehicles included the Opel GT, the Daewoo G2X, Pontiac’s Solstice and the Saturn Sky. The Saturn, Opel and Daewoo models were similar; the Pontiac model had its own body design.

Engine and Transmission Choices

The Pontiac Solstice was introduced for the 2006 model year, the other models followed in 2007. From the onset, the Saturn Sky was sold in two trim levels: the standard or base convertible and the Red Line.

The base edition was powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine making 177 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 166 foot-pounds of torque at 4,800 rpm. This engine was paired with a five-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic. Fuel economy ranged from 17 to 19 mpg in the city to 24 to 26 mpg on the highway per its EPA rating.

The Red Line Saturn Sky was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 260 horsepower at 5,300 rpm and 260 foot-pounds of torque at 2,500 rpm. Like the base model, customers had a choice of both five-speed manual and automatic transmissions The model was rated at 19 mpg in the city and 26 to 28 mpg on the highway.

Saturn Sky Amenities

All Saturn Sky models were equipped with a manual top or what “Car and Driver” described as “toilsome” for moving into place. CD also referred the Sky as a “Corvette Junior Petite,” admiring its styling characteristics including its large air intakes, long hood, low stance, and its short deck.

Standard equipment for the base 2009 edition included 18-inch wheels, automatic headlamps, a climate control system, power windows, power door locks, a six-speaker audio system, satellite radio, and iPod connectivity.

The Red Line edition added performance characteristics including the turbocharged engine, a stiffer suspension, and a limited-slip differential. Options included a seven-speaker audio system, leather trim, metallic pedals, and special paint finishes.

Bankruptcy and Demise

Although few analysts favorably compared the Saturn Sky and its Kappa platform mates with the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the leading affordable roadster, these models did manage to enhance each respective brand. They were also money losers with GMInsideNews.com reporting that GM lost about $10,000 for each unit built. Moreover, the Saturn brand sucked money out of GM, costing the company $20 billion over 24 years.

With GM fighting for its life, the company declared bankruptcy on June 1, 2009, and then used that opportunity to restructure. GM later closed down or sold off several brands including Pontiac, Hummer, Saab, and Saturn. The Kappa models had already been slated for cancellation when GM went bankrupt, ending its brief model run after just three years.

The Saturn Sky was a design success and a fair entry in the roadster segment. That its model run was a brief one also makes this car hard to find and a likely future collectible.

Photo copyright Wikimedia. 2009 Saturn Sky Redline Ruby Red Limited Edition photographed at Babylon, NY. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

Steadfast Stallion: Ford Mustang GT

May 8, 2019 by admin

The 2019 Ford Mustang GT returns with light changes. The California Special comes to the Premium line. — 2019 Ford Mustang GT Premium.

The Ford Mustang recently celebrated its 55th anniversary, a strong tribute to this model’s enduring appeal. America’s pony car is also the world’s muscle car, a sport coupe or convertible with robust performance aspirations.

2019 Ford Mustang Overview

The 2019 Ford Mustang returns with trim and package changes. The big news, however, is the iconic Bullitt model returns. The current Mustang is based on the six-generation model, which rolled out in 2015.

Ford offers the 2019 Mustang in EcoBoost Fastback ($26,395), EcoBoost Premium Fastback ($31,505), GT Fastback ($35,355), GT Premium Fastback ($39,355), and Bullitt ($46,595) trims. Add $1,095 for the destination charge. The convertible is available on the first, second, and fourth trims. Here, you’ll add $5,500 to acquire one.

There is one more model to consider: the Ford Mustang Shelby GT350. This one starts at $59,140 for the standard model or $67,135 for the GT350R. Finally, if you’re looking for the Shelby GT500, you’ll see it in the 2020 model year.

2019 Ford Mustang GT

Highlights of the 2019 Ford Mustang GT

We’ve reviewed the current-generation Mustang extensively, so we’ll depart from our normal procedure by simply focusing on some of the salient points or highlights of the 2019 model.

1. More power at your disposal.

We last tested a 2017 model, having “settled” for the Shelby GT350 last year. For 2018, Ford cranked up the power in its main V8, with the performance numbers now coming in at 460 horsepower and 420 foot-pounds of torque. That’s up from 435 horsepower and 400 foot-pounds of torque previously.

Importantly, fuel economy is up slightly, thanks in part to a now-available 10-speed automatic transmission, which replaced the previous 6-speed automatic. The Tremec-supplied 6-speed manual gearbox is still available and was included with our test model. This made us happy.

2. The California Special goes Premium.

One new feature that rolled out in 2018 for the standard GT model expands to the GT Premium this year. And that’s none other than the handsome “California Special” package, which is a tribute to the original.

This special package includes a fading stripe that connects the side badge to the rear fender scoop. On the trunk lid is a California Special badge dressed in ebony black and race red script. Up front, you’ll find a blacked-out grille and the Mustang Performance Pack 1 splitter. Lastly, the package includes special five-spoke painted machined wheels.

3. You can take a Bullitt.

The Ford Mustang has been featured in many films down through the years, including “Goldfinger,” “Diamonds Are Forever,” and “Gone in 60 Seconds.” What’s especially interesting about the first one is that the Mustang appeared just months after it was launched. In effect, the early placement set the tone for appearances in subsequent movies, ensuring the public understood the potential prowess of the blue oval’s stallion.

While movie placement of cars is certainly a big deal, there is one flick synonymous with the Mustang and that’s none other than “Bullitt,” a 1968 cult classic featuring the legendary actor Steve McQueen. McQueen’s character, Frank Bullitt, is a police inspector and in this film, he is being hunted by assassins in a black Dodge Charger. Filmed on the streets of San Francisco, Bullitt’s special green Mustang GT Fastback (with a four-speed manual gearbox) stayed ahead of the Charger throughout the near 11-minute chase scene. In reality, the Charger was faster than the Mustang, but as far as movie-goers understood, the Bullitt was king.

To mark the 50th anniversary of the film, Ford rolled out a tribute Bullitt model in 2018. It returns for another year. The Mustang Bullitt has a $7,240 price premium over the GT Premium coupe (you can’t buy a convertible), but it shares the same 5.0-liter V8 engine of the GT, with an additional 20 horsepower at your disposal. Like the Shelby, it only has a 6-speed manual gearbox (with a white cue ball shifter). Other standout features include its Dark Highland Green patina, chrome accents, available Recaro black leather-trimmed seats with unique green stitching, and a 12-inch all-digital instrument panel display.

On the Road

The Mustang GT is lit and that’s a simple description of this potent stallion. We love our naturally aspirated V8s and nothing else will do. That’s why the competing Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger also have V8s — small turbocharged four-cylinder engines and V6s are reserved for the base models (the Challenger starts out with a V6).

Press the ignition and the Mustang GT roars to life. Its quad-tip exhaust lets out a boomlet, underscoring this model’s potency. Thankfully, a six-speed gearbox was supplied. Yes, the 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters is a strong option, although it simply cannot supply the same level of driving engagement as the manual.

Happily, the gear shifter is firm, yet pliable. Clean clutch uptake and rev-matching downshifts are two of its top attributes.

If you’re looking for an impressive 0-60 mph time, the Mustang GT does not disappoint. In fact, Ford claims you’ll reach that speed in just under four seconds, effectively beating some of the best models from Porsche and BMW. You’ll achieve this feat with the automatic and trail by a split-second or two with the manual — a quick shift up to third gear will take you there. Keep the pedal to the metal and your quarter-mile run is equally impressive — about 12 seconds.

Ford imbued my test model with the GT Performance Package ($3,995), which adds handsome ebony black painted wheels, summer performance tires, a rear wing, and 3.7 Torsen rear axle to the mix. My test model also had the Magne-Ride Damping System ($1,695) and the Active Valve performance exhaust, a switch-operated system that allows you to switch between quiet, normal, sport, and track sounds. Be a good neighbor and keep the switch on quiet until you head away from your home.

Downshifting produces beautiful back pressure rumble, something this driver never tired of. Ford built in a nice balance of engine and exhaust noise, what you’d expect for a performance model.

On the road, the Mustang GT excels in straight-line driving, but also does quite well on twisty roads and when cornering. It weighs in under two tons, which compares favorably to the Camaro, but is several hundred pounds lighter than the Challenger. This Mustang’s steering is sufficiently weighted and supplies wonderful feedback.

My sample model also had the standard and selectable electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system, which offers comfort, normal, and sport modes. Check out the instrument panel as it switches to a track-like layout in sport mode.

The Mustang’s ride is firm, yet comfortable. The Mustang GT begs to be unbridled with an intense gallop its calling card. It hugs the road with precision, enters corners without drama and exits same seamlessly. If you’re in doubt that the Mustang GT is a sports car, spending a few hours behind the wheel of one and putting it through the paces will demonstrate that it is.

Importantly, the “thrill quotient” is high, what makes this steadfast stallion a wonderful, driver’s car.

Auto Trends Recommends

I’m frequently asked about price when it comes to the models I drive. When I mentioned “$50,000” for the Mustang GT Premium, some people expressed surprise. But that’s with every option package taken, which adds more than $10,000 to the cost.

If you’re serious about performance, you’ll gravitate to the packages, which ultimately adds to your cost. Opting for the standard GT and adding the GT Performance Package ($3,995) brings your price to about $39,000, with the current $1,500 cash incentive taken. You won’t have all the creature comforts of the GT Premium, including leather seats, but you’ll still enjoy the potency and handling attributes for a reasonable price.

2019 Ford Mustang GT Fastback

Sticker price from $35,355
Sticker price from $39,355 (Premium Fastback)
Price as tested: $51,225
Seats four
Engine: 5.0-liter V8 gas
460 hp @ 7,000 RPM
420 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,600 RPM
6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 107.1 inches
Length: 188.5 inches
Width: 75.4 inches
Height: 54.9 inches
Passenger volume: 82.8 cubic feet
Storage volume: 13.5 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 16/25 mpg (automatic); 15/24 (manual) city/highway
Premium gasoline
Fuel tank: 16 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,743 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Good, Driver Side Overlap (Acceptable)
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Flat Rock, Michigan

Drop-Top Delight: 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata

April 8, 2019 by admin

Heavy pollen and spring rains are in abundance in my area at this time of the year, which makes it difficult, if not downright challenging to evaluate any drop-top model. But the Mazda MX-5 Miata is one vehicle I do not see all that often, therefore when an opportunity to drive one appears, you make it work.

Fortunately, there were enough gaps in the green-yellow haze and precipitation to grab a few hours of unimpeded top-down driving. I’m glad I did as the Miata reminds me why this vehicle remains an enduring favorite — there is no other model quite like it, a budget roadster that recently marked its 30th anniversary.

That’s right, the little roadster that could, celebrated its 30th anniversary at the same venue where it was initially introduced — the Chicago Auto Show. The Miata is now in its fourth generation, with the current version released in 2016 and updated since.

2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata

2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata Overview

Mazda prices the 2019 MX-5 Miata from $25,730 for the Sport edition, $29,590 for the Club, and $30,780 for the Grand Touring. Add $920 for the destination charge ($965 in Alaska). Add $1,350 to upgrade to the automatic transmission.

The changes for this year include an updated engine with more power, a standard rearview camera, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, and an available GT-S package for the top-trim model.

Mazda offers a few package options with the Miata. With the Sport edition, you’ll find the I-Activsense Sport Package ($850) with low-speed automatic braking support, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

For the middle trim, Mazda offers the I-Activsense Club Package ($450) with low-speed automatic braking support and lane departure warning. You’ll also find a Brembo/BBS Recaro Package ($4,470), which adds the items mentioned in its name along with an aero kit and heated front seats.

On the top Grand Touring trim, you’ll find the GT-S Package ($550). This one adds a limited-slip differential, Bilstein dampers, and a shock tower brace (front).

2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata

A Matter of Style

Its miles of smiles with the Miata, as evidenced by its dimpled front fascia. The look is as close to a human face as you’ll find in any car and that’s one of its attractions. The Miata’s frame is tiny, with the arched hood you also find in far more expensive models, such as the Corvette and Jaguar F-Type. The smallest of all cabin areas is dominated by a soft-top roof. From the rear, the deck has a subdued haunch and a similar dimpled look of the front.

Standard features include LED headlights and taillights, daytime running lights, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, front and rear stabilizer bars, and an independent rear suspension. The list of upgrades include LED daytime running lights, an adaptive front lighting system, a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and brown or dark cherry cloth roofs (upgraded from black).

Inside, space is at a premium. If you’re taller than 6 feet, there is a good chance you won’t fit inside. I’m a smidgen below that height and I found the space quite snug. This year, Mazda adds telescoping to the tilt steering wheel, which makes it easier to adjust your overall driving position. Still, the interior is the smallest we’ve seen in just about any production model.

The list of standard features include full power accessories, push-button start, air conditioning, and cloth seats. Heated front seats and leather trim are available.

Safety & Technology

Mazda supplies the Miata with a six-speaker audio system. You’ll also find Bluetooth, two USB audio input ports, and the Mazda Connect Infotainment System. The latter includes a 7-inch color touch-screen display, HD Radio, and various apps. Upgrades include a 9-speaker Bose audio system, satellite radio, and a navigation system.

Among safety features, the Miata gains its first-ever rearview camera. We mentioned the various safety options available with the package choices in the overview section. Perhaps the only omission we’d like to see is full adaptive cruise control with automatic emergency braking at any speed. Likely, that’ll roll out with a future model.

On the Road

Is the MX-5 Miata a sports car? You really cannot call it one, at least not in the eyes of purists. Typically, sports cars have six- or eight-cylinder power at the ready, while the Miata relies on a naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine to supply motivation.

2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata That engine makes 181 horsepower and 151foot-pounds of torque, thanks to a high compression ratio, which squeezes out power and redlines at 7,000 RPM. A turbo might give it sports car cred were it available, but Mazda sees fit to utilize a naturally aspirated engine in all of its deliciousness.

My test model paired that engine with a six-speed manual gearbox, which is, in my opinion, the ideal choice for this roadster. You can get a six-speed automatic, but if you like to row your own, the manual is the better choice. Happily, the manual moves through each with ease, with a clean clutch uptake enhancing the driving experience.

While engine power is important, the Miata shines in all things steering and handling. This roadster supplies a connection to the road that equals what you’d find in many sports cars. Every slight movement of the steering wheel brings with it a corresponding movement of the wheels, which is especially delightful on twisty roads. You’ll detect some body roll while aggressively cornering, although it certainly isn’t unmanageable or unexpected. The available limited-slip differential is a must for performance enthusiasts.

Step-off acceleration is modest as the little Miata steadily picks up speed. As mentioned, the shifts come smoothly. The engine is noticeably noisy, even with the roof up. No roar of a massive V8 here — just the whine of a very busy and capable four-pot. Thankfully, Mazda doesn’t create the fake exhaust sound common to some performance models. A modest hum is all the reminder you need.

Dropping the top is as simple as releasing a releasing a hooked tab. Immediately, the windows drop part way and the roof separates from the top of the windshield. With just one hand, you can push the hood behind the seats and (if you’re strong enough) close it up from within the cabin. To close, a clip between the seats frees the roof from its storage compartment. You’ll then manually lift it, connect the hook in place and reclip.

Keep in mind that dropping the roof consumes your very modest 4.9 cubic feet of storage space. A weekend bag might still fit, so there is that.

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It is hard for us to recommend any Miata model that isn’t the Grand Touring with the optional GT-S package. We just think that if you’re shopping for this roadster, then you’ll want the performance advantage this package provides. We’d also stay with the manual transmission, unless you’re using your Miata as your daily commuter in heavy traffic.

Credit Mazda with keeping its Miata the fun driver’s car it has always been. Other than the nearly identical Fiat 124 Spyder, there are no direct competitors. Few manufacturers have attempted to deliver an affordable roaster, with each one eventually throwing in the towel to leave Mazda alone in the segment.

2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Sticker price from $26,650 (includes $920 destination charge)
Delivered price: $32,845 (approximately)
Seats 2
2.0-liter 16-valve four-cylinder gasoline engine
181 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm
151 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,000 rpm
3.29 inches bore by 3.59 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 13-to-1
6-speed manual transmission
Wheelbase: 90.9 inches
Length: 154.1 inches
Width: 68.3 inches
Height: 48.6 inches
Passenger volume: NR cubic feet
Storage volume: 4.59 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 26 mpg city, 34 mpg highway
Premium grade gasoline recommended
Fuel tank: 11.89 gallons
Curb weight: From 2,339 to 2,388 pounds
IIHS safety rating: NR
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Hiroshima, Japan

See Also — Sparkling New Mazda Miata Debuts

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine unless otherwise identified as belonging to Mazda.

Refreshed and Reinvigorated:
2019 Chevrolet Camaro SS

March 1, 2019 by admin

The chief domestic manufacturers may be turning their backs on most car models, but left untouched are the muscle cars we love. These models include the Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger and Charger, and the Ford Mustang, each of which delivers aggressive styling, potent engines, and timeless value.

The segment hasn’t always been as strong as it is today, especially when federal regulators instituted tough emissions and safety measures, beginning in the 1970s. Entire model lines, such as the Ford Torino, Dodge Charger, and the Buick GNX were canceled. Later, some of the brands that supported such models as the Mercury Cougar, Plymouth Roadrunner, Olds 442, and Pontiac Tempest and Firebird were discontinued.

Happily, the segment received a boost when modern models from Dodge and Chevrolet joined the Ford Mustang to supply the market with a current take on automotive sports coupe performance. These models offer more power, better steering and handling, and technologies the originals never had. Though demand is only a fraction of what we saw in the 1960s and 1970s, the core is strong and consumers love them.

2019 Chevrolet Camaro Overview

The 2019 Chevrolet Camaro and Corvette continue to uphold the performance car banner for Chevy, although the latter is most definitely a sports car. As for the Camaro, the current-generation model rolled out in 2016, six years after the nameplate was restored.

For 2019, the Camaro is refreshed, sporting revised front and rear fascias along with other design changes. Chevrolet added a new infotainment interface and introduced an LE performance package to its base models.

2019 Chevrolet Camaro SS

Chevrolet offers the 2019 Camaro in LS, LT (1LT, 2LT and 3LT), SS (1SS and 2SS) and ZL1 models. All but the LS are also available as a convertible. The competing Mustang also has a convertible, while the Challenger does not.

Prices range from $25,995 to $62,995 for the coupe and $32,495 to $70,695 for the convertible. All prices include the $995 destination charge. Yes, it is entirely possible to load the Camaro with every conceivable amenity and push the final price to $75,000. That may sound crazy, but it is in line with the top prices fetched by its competitors.

Camaro SS: Oh, Yes!

For the third time, Chevrolet sent a 2019 Camaro SS my way, the only Camaro models I’ve ever tested for publication. I’ve driven the others, but the SS is the best expression of Camaro performance at least until the ZL1 came along.

Before we look at all things SS, the “lesser” Camaro models deserve recognition too. This four-seat rear-wheel-drive model comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Buyers can upgrade to a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6, generating 335 horsepower and 284 pound-feet of torque.

2019 Chevrolet Camaro SS

Both engines work with either a six-speed TREMEC manual gearbox or to an 8-speed automatic transmission. When equipped with the automatic, the model with the standard engine makes an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway (20/30 mpg with the manual). Choose the V6 and the fuel economy is 19 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway (16/27 mpg with the automatic).

The Camaro SS raises the power quotient significantly with its 6.2-liter V8 engine making 455 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque. Chevy pairs this engine with either the manual gearbox or to a 10-speed automatic transmission. My test model came with the automatic and although I prefer the manual, it serves this model well. Your fuel economy here is 16 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway (16/24 mpg with the manual).

Certainly, Chevrolet could have left well enough alone and stopped there. But they didn’t. And that’s a good thing. Camaro shoppers can upgrade to a supercharged version of the V8 (with the ZL1) and keep the same transmission pairings. As a result, a significant power boost is achieved, enabling this engine to bang out 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. On the negative side, fuel economy takes a hit as it falls to 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway (13/21 mpg with the automatic). Furthermore, a federal gas guzzler tax kicks in and it’ll lighten your wallet by $1,700.

Here are the highlights of the 2019 Camaro SS:

1. New exterior styling touches are apparent. Camaro fans will notice the changes at once. Up front, the SS has a new fascia marked by an updated grille, dual-element headlamps, and LED lighting. The extractor-style hood is a fresh design too. From the rear, the fascia features sculpted LED tail lamps with dark-tinted neutral-density (transparent) lenses. As for the wheels, you’ll find a new 20-inch design.

2019 Chevrolet Camaro SS

2. The ZL1’s automatic transmission is here. Most Camaro SS enthusiasts love the 6-speed manual gearbox, a signature performance piece in any muscle car. That said, a manual isn’t for everyone and that’s where an automatic transmission with paddle shifters comes in. For 2019, the SS gains a 10-speed automatic transmission, courtesy of the ZL1 trim, which already had this unit. The two extra gears suit this sports car just fine. We’ll explore this point when we drill down on our driving impressions.

3. You can take it to the track. Choose the available SS 1LE Track Performance Package ($7,000) and you’ll cut corners with precision. The package includes Satin Black design elements — front splitter, hood wrap, and rear blade spoiler. You’ll also find 20-inch Satin Graphite forged aluminum wheels wrapped within Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar tires. A performance-tuned suspension, magnetic ride control, an electronic limited-slip differential, Brembo front and rear performance antilock brakes, and dual-mode exhaust are included. Inside, front Recaro bucket seats, sueded steering wheel and shift knob cover, and a head-up display round-out this package.

4. You’ll find standard driver-assist features on the 2SS. You have to opt for the Camaro 2SS to enjoy certain safety features not offered with the 1SS. These include rear park assist, rear cross-traffic alert, side blind zone alert with lane change alert and forward collision alert (coupe only). All models have a rear-vision camera; the 2SS has a rear camera mirror.

Driving Impressions: 2019 Camaro SS

There are cars and then there are driver’s cars. The Camaro fits the latter category sublimely, especially in SS guise and above. This is no slap against the turbo and V6 models, rather it is a strong affirmation of what Chevrolet brings to the table with its sports coupe.

And the table is set with a performance coupe that’s second to none.

My test model had the standard V8 engine paired with the automatic transmission. I could have groused, given that the smooth-shifting manual wasn’t presented. But its omission gave me the opportunity to evaluate the new powertrain pairing. In fact, the current transmission acquitted itself beautifully.

2019 Chevrolet Camaro SS

On ignition, the engine rumbled and sent out a moderate bellow through its two exhaust tips. Move through the drive modes (tour, sport, and track) and the clamor increases. The same can be said for the weight of the steering wheel and the suspension system — the Camaro SS simply becomes a more potent machine with its advanced settings selected.

Move away from a dead stop and the SS immediately shows what it’s made of. The engine responds with copious amounts of power and keeps delivering as it quickly moves the Camaro forward.

At wide-open throttle, the burly V8 roars and sends this sports coupe rocketing down the road. On the straightaway, the SS is right at home. On twisty back roads, it is nimble and compliant. The steering wheel felt fantastic in my hands— it is as accurate as it is agile.

The Camaro dives into corners with confidence and leaves them with ease. Its big tires, rapidly adjusting suspension system, and limited-slip differential join forces to keep this vehicle planted.

There are also a few fun features of note with this Camaro. For instance, the lift-foot gear-hold mode. Here, if you’re navigation twist roads, simply tap the gas pedal and the transmission stays in gear. The transmission will immediately drop to third gear and hold it while taking your tight turn. It’ll upshift just as you finish your final corner and head straight down the road with the full force of the engine powered up. The other fun feature is launch control and line lock. Here, you get to optimize your 0-60 mph time, which should come in around four seconds.

2019 Chevrolet Camaro SS

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If performance is high on your list, then the SS is where you’ll begin your Camaro search. The good news is that 1SS coupe begins at $37,995; the convertible clocks in at $43,995. The packages are relatively light on the 1SS, but much more thorough beginning with the 2SS.

Consider the supercharged V8 and your starting price comes in at $64,695 for the coupe and $70,695 for the convertible. Both are ZL1 models, which means you get everything from the SS trims and add in every available embellishment.

We recommend the 2SS trim as it brings in such features as illuminated kick plates, heated and ventilated leather-trimmed front seats with power control, a heated steering wheel, a head-up display, dual-zone climate control, a Bose audio package, and driver-assist technologies. Even without a single upgrade, your price is $42,995. Consider a few performance and appearance upgrades and your final price should come in around $45,000.

In all, the 2019 Camaro remains an excellent representation of what we want in a modern muscle car, even a sports car. Its aggressive looks, the variety of powertrain choices, sports cockpit, and advanced technologies match up well in a small, but a highly competitive segment.

2019 Chevrolet Camaro SS

2019 Chevrolet Camaro SS Specifications

Sticker price from $37,995 (including a $995 destination charge)
Price as tested: $44,590
Seats 4
Engine No. 1: 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine
455 horsepower @ 6,000 RPM
455 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,400 RPM
Engine No. 2: Supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 gasoline engine
650 horsepower @ 6,400 RPM
650 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,600 RPM
Six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 110.7 inches
Length: 188.3 inches
Width: 74.7 inches
Height: 53.1 inches
Passenger volume: 52 cubic feet
Storage volume: 9.1 cubic feet (7.3 convertible)
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 16 mpg city, 27 mpg highway (automatic)
Premium grade gasoline recommended
Fuel tank: 19 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,685 to 3,943 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Good, except acceptable roof strength and marginal child seat anchors
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 6 years/100,000 miles
Vehicle assembly: Lansing, Michigan

2019 Chevrolet Camaro SS

About the 2020 Toyota GR Supra

January 30, 2019 by admin

The Supra is coming! The Supra is coming!

If you’re part of the Toyota Supra fandom, you’ve heard this exclamation for the better part of a decade, perhaps longer. More than two decades have passed since the last Supra was sold in North America, although it soldiered on in Japan until 2002.

But now we know for certain that a new Supra is on its way, thanks in large part to BMW, which had a significant hand in ensuring that Toyota’s sports car had a chance to return. Indeed, the platform, powertrain and other significant components are all BMW as this model shares much of its running gear with the all-new BMW Z4.

2020 Toyota GR Supra — The fifth-generation Supra arrives this summer.

Here’s what we know about the 2020 GR Toyota Supra:

1. It has been a long time coming.

Toyota teased us with what many thought would be the fifth-generation Supra as far back as 2007. That’s when the automaker rolled out the FT-HS concept, which stood for Future Toyota-Hybrid Sports. Yes, a hybrid sports car. The concept featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine and an advanced hybrid drive system, which together sent power to the rear wheels. With approximately 400 hp at the ready, this was one fast sports car.

Alas, the FT-HS never materialized and it took another seven years before a concept of Supra proportions emerged. That’s when Toyota unveiled the 2014 FT-1, which featured elements of the FT-HS and previous Toyota sports cars, including the MR2, Supra, and 2000GT. The FT-1 may be considered the forerunner to the 2020 GR Supra.

2. The Supra only happened because of BMW.

BMW and Toyota are competitors, especially at the BMW-Lexus level. The two luxury brands battle for top sales in the U.S., only to trail Mercedes-Benz in recent years. That said, when it comes to the auto industry, strange bedfellows sometimes make great collaborators, especially where money is involved.

2020 Toyota GR Supra

No doubt, Toyota would not have ever brought back the Supra if they had to build the model from scratch. The cost involved would likely have blown well past $1 billion for a vehicle that will only be built in fairly small numbers. Highly conservative Toyota would never approve of such a deal, but with flashy Akio Toyoda at the helm of the company, the Supra project became a reality. How much Toyota pays BMW for the right to produce this vehicle isn’t known.

3. Toyota brings the styling.

Everything about the 2020 Supra is Toyota, at least when it comes to its style. The skin is unmistakably Japanese or at least it features a look derived from previous Toyota products (the Supra was actually designed at the company’s design studio in California).

Inside, the cabin is driver-focused, as expected. The instrument panel is unique to Toyota, while the switchgear is chiefly BMW. The centered rev gauge looks like something you’d find in Porsche. As for the touchscreen, it is bolted on top of the dashboard.

2020 Toyota GR Supra

4. BMW supplies the performance.

This is where Supra purists may have the most difficult time with the all-new model. There isn’t much of a Toyota imprint here as the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six used by BMW in the Z4 and elsewhere motivates this sports car. The engine is no slouch as it makes 335 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. Power is routed to the rear wheels by means of an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The transmission choice is the only one available, which means there isn’t a manual gearbox to be had. This isn’t surprising, especially as paddle shifters are and demand for “rowing your own” can be measured in the low single digits. Nevertheless, a 0-60 mph time of about 4 seconds may have drivers forgetting what they can’t have.

Toyota still has its influence on the way the Supra behaves, thanks in part to its adaptive suspension. Adjustments to stability control and the differential give this coupe its special flavor.

5. Made in Austria.

Both the BMW Z4 and the Toyota Supra will be made at the Magna Steyr manufacturing plant in Graz, Austria. The company is fairly unique in the automotive world as it is an automotive supplier with expertise in design, engineering, and full manufacturing. Notably, the Supra’s body stampings, liftgate, seats, and door latches are supplied by Magna Steyr.

2020 Toyota GR Supra

The company doesn’t build its own vehicles, but it manufactures cars for various customers. So far, Magna Steyr says it has produced more than 3.5 million vehicles for its clients. Production of the Toyota GR Supra will commence this spring.

2020 Toyota GR Supra Prices

Toyota will offer 1,500 Launch Edition models with distinctive styling and unique numbering. These models will go on sale in Summer 2019 starting at $55,250.

Later, Toyota will offer the 2020 Supra in two grades: 3.0 ($49,990) and 3.0 Premium ($53,990). Prices do not include the $930 freight charge. A Driver Assist Package ($1,195, full-speed adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, parking sonar and rear collision warning) is available across the model line. This package builds on the standard forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, road sign assist and automatic high beams.

2019 Toyota GR Supra Specifications

Toyota	2020 GR Supra
Segment	Sportscar
Base Sticker Price	$50,920 (including a $930 destination charge)
Launch Edition	$56,180
Standard Engine	3.0-liter, turbo V6
Horsepower	335 @ 5,000 to 6,500 RPM
Torque (lb.-ft.)	365 @ 1,600 to 4,500 RPM
Transmission	Eight-speed automatic
Seating	2
Curb Weight (pounds)	3,397
Wheelbase (inches)	97.2
Length (inches)	172.5
Width (inches)	73
Height (inches)	50.9
Head room (f,r…inches)	38.3
Leg room (f,r…inches)	42.2
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	54.4
Hip room (f,r…inches)	54.2
Storage (cubic feet)	10.2
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	4,001
Towing (pounds)	NR
Payload (pounds)	604
Fuel	Premium
Fuel Tank (gallons)	13.7
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway)	24/31/26 city/highway/combined
Manufacturing Plant	Graz, Austria

Photos copyright Toyota Motors.

Super Steed: Ford Performance Enhanced Mustang GT

December 29, 2017 by admin 1 Comment

Select performance parts take the Mustang GT to greater heights.

Updated December 30, 2017, to clarify the performance pack’s short-throw shifter.

2017 Ford Mustang GT — The 2015-2017 Mustang GT has since been replaced by an updated 2018 model with a fresh look at available 10-speed automatic transmission.

I’ve driven nearly every Ford Performance enhanced product, with the exotic Ford GT supercar the lone exception. The overarching task of Ford’s performance division is to take ordinary or already sporty models and convert them into something extraordinary.

Models like the Ford F-150 Raptor, Focus RS, Shelby GT 350/350R, Fiesta ST and Focus ST. Yet, the division’s influence extends far beyond these models to include Ford-authorized aftermarket parts, wheels, performance packs, superchargers and crate engines for tuners and weekend warriors.

In other words, Ford Performance has something for everyone.

Mustang GT Performance Pack

One such beneficiary of Ford Performance’s prowess is the Mustang GT. Shoppers may opt for the GT Performance Pack ($2,995), available with manual gearbox models only.

The package extensively modifies the GT, making such changes as adding 19-inch Ebony Black-Painted Aluminum Wheels set within summer-only tires, Brembo six-piston brake calipers with larger rotors, heavy-duty front springs, a k-brace (for stabilizing the front suspension while cornering), strut-tower brace, unique chassis tuning, a larger rear sway bar, spoiler delete and a TORSEN differential with a 3.73 axle ratio. Inside, you’ll find a gauge pack, adding oil pressure and vacuum dials, as well as an aluminum-trimmed instrument panel.

You’ll also find a nifty “tool” known as a short throw “no lift shift” transmission shifter. When operating under full throttle, this feature allows you to keep the gas pedal on the floor while shifting gears. At launch, rev the engine, drop the clutch, and hammer the throttle.

See Also — Book Review: Mustang by Design

2017 Ford Mustang GT Premium

A 2017 Ford Mustang GT Premium equipped with the GT Performance Pack, Shaker Audio System Package ($1,795), Recaro Leather Trim Sport front seats ($1,595) and a reverse sensing system ($295) was my end-of-calendar-year visitor, carrying a retail price of ($44,775). Although the refreshed 2018 model was on the market for a few months, I jumped at the chance to drive the 2017 Mustang GT.

And who wouldn’t? Securing performance versions of Ford products take time — even as the calendar year comes to an end, interest in such models remains.

Incidentally, if you do happen to consider the 2018 model, this same performance package retails for $3,995. Further, it is now available with models equipped with the Mustang’s new 10-speed automatic transmission and adds a pair of items to justify its $1,000 premium: a larger radiator and a performance rear wing.

Performance-Enhanced Powertrain

Ford Performance tweaks to the Mustang GT also yield power and handling benefits, especially when additional performance parts are part of the equation, including a cat-back exhaust system ($1,549), cold air intake and calibration power pack ($949) and a track handling package ($1,520), to name a few.

When properly equipped, overall power increases from an already robust 435 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque to 451 horsepower and 424 pound-feet of torque. Importantly, you control that excitement by means of a smooth shifting six-speed manual gearbox.

On the Road

I received sufficient warning about the “slippery” rear tires when handed the keys to the GT, but it took a few turns around town and on the open road to gauge exactly what I was dealing with.

Tires, of course, play a big role in handling. Up front, the Mustang GT has 255/40R19 tires; at the rear, you’ll find 275/40R tires. They’re summer tires too, and that means when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit they begin to lose traction.

Ideally, summer tires are best for when ambient temperatures are warm or hot. That’s the ideal, although not always what’s practiced. Indeed, the tread rubber compound includes flexible plastic. When temperatures drop, the plastic becomes inflexible, increasing the likelihood of the compound breaking.

Fortunately, December temperatures in central North Carolina were still relatively warm with daytime highs in the 50s and 60s common. To avoid drama, I chose the warm days for the bulk of my driving. On the remaining days, I didn’t venture out until the afternoon when cold wasn’t a consideration.

Ka-boom! That’s precisely what I (and my neighbors) heard whenever I started the Mustang GT. However, unlike the Shelby GT 350, there isn’t a switch available to quiet that note. Not that you want to tone things down, but depending on where you park your ride, your neighbors may complain.

This hot steed shifts cleanly with smooth clutch uptake. But the lack of grip from the rear tires means shifting into lower gears may result in tire spin or slippage, even with traction control engaged. More than once I found myself holding off shifting between first and second gear to avoid grip loss from the Pirelli P Zero tires.

Everything else about the Mustang GT is solid, from the comfortable Recaro seats to the weighty steering. As much as possible, I kept the steed in sport mode, enjoying the solid feel of the steering wheel and the precision handling of every turn. For enthusiasts, a 4.3-second 0-to-60 mph time should be within range. Even better times are in store for the 2018s.

You’ll realize this Mustang’s sweet spot at high speeds, particularly as the coupe knuckles down when pressing hard on the pedal. Find your place in fourth or fifth gear and the V8 percolates, sending beautiful booms through the exhaust outlets as you ease up on the pedal. Sixth gear may seem like an afterthought…something to consider when maintaining an even highway speed with cruise control on.

Another attribute of the Mustang is its big brakes. Slam them and you’ll come to a quick stop with zero brake fade noted. The cooler temperatures may have helped somewhat in mitigating heat build up for the week I had it, otherwise, I was very impressed by this steed’s poise from start to finish.

Parting Thoughts

The Mustang GT gives enthusiasts most of what they need in a powerful muscle car for under $40,000. That said, you’ll probably want to add at least the Performance Package and the Cold Air Intake and Calibration Package to achieve maximum power and control.

Most models will cost somewhere around $45,000, with $50,000 the likely range if you insist on the enhanced audio system and a few other Ford Performance goodies.

All in all, the 2017 Mustang GT hits all the high notes in the segment. Certainly, if performance is your be all and end all, opting for the 2018 model provides a fresh look with improved performance — a winning combo you won’t want to easily dismiss.

2017 Ford Mustang GT Premium Fastback

Sticker price from $37,195

Price as tested: $44,775

Seats four

Engine: 5.0-liter V8 gas

435 hp @ 6,500 RPM

400 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,250 RPM

6-speed manual or automatic transmission

Wheelbase: 107.1 inches

Length: 188.3 inches

Width: 75.4 inches

Height: 54.3 inches

Passenger volume: 82.8 cubic feet

Storage volume: 13.5 cubic feet

Towing capacity: NR

EPA: 14/23 mpg city/highway

Premium gasoline

Fuel tank: 16 gallons

Curb weight: From 3,733 pounds

IIHS safety rating: Incomplete

Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles

Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles

Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles

Vehicle assembly: Flat Rock, Michigan

Charmed, Then Snakebitten by a Shelby GT350

October 27, 2017 by admin 5 Comments

Flat-plane crank V8 engine and all that.

2017 Shelby GT350 — A Ford Mustang by another name: Shelby GT350.

When is a Ford Mustang not a Mustang? Answer: when it is a Shelby GT350 (or GT350R).

Well, the Shelby is a Mustang, a special version bearing the name of the late Carroll Shelby, a racing driver and automotive designer of renown. Shelby’s name adorned some of the earliest Mustangs, returning in 2006 to do likewise for modern variants. The current iteration indicates neither Ford nor Shelby on the exterior. Instead, you’ll find the recognizable cobra insignia.

Yes, the Shelby line sits on the top of the Mustang pecking order, just above the GT. If you follow the Shelby line closely, then you’re aware that platform updates follow Mustang architecture revisions, but engineering changes may happen at any time. This means when the current and sixth-generation Mustang rolled out for the 2015 model year, new Shelby models followed.

Voodoo You: Flat-Plane Crank

But the Shelby changes happen much faster and typically last only for a few years before an updated model rolls out. For example, beginning in 2016, Shelby replaced the enhanced version of Ford’s 5.0-liter “Coyote” V8 with a new engine displacing at 5.2 liters. Ford assigned a “Voodoo” appellation to the engine, perhaps to underscore its “magical” properties.

2017 Ford GT350 — Shelby models replace the steed insignia with a cobra.

What’s special about this engine, which is also exclusive to Shelby, is that it offers a flat-plane crank. This means the V8 acts more like a pair of four-cylinder engines pushed together, delivering a sequential right-to-left firing order common to racing cars as well as to some exotics. There is a two-fold benefit here: the engine is louder than the typical cross-plane crankshaft and it revs higher — in this case to a whopping 8,250 RPM in the Shelby.

A trained eye can spot the differences immediately — the crank pins in cross-plane crankshafts are set 90 degrees to each other, while in flat-plane engines the positioning is 180 degrees. Got it? It took me a while to understand the difference.

No matter, the GT350 is a beast you’ll want to ride. The burly V8 cranks out 526 horsepower at 7,500 RPM and 429 pound-feet of torque at 4,750 RPM. It comes exclusively with a TREMEC 6-speed manual gearbox that shifts like butter — short, quick throws benefit your hand and foot action, although you can easily stay in second gear to reach the coveted 60 mph limit to gauge your times. A 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds is possible, with perhaps a slightly better time realized in the GT350R as it comes in 130 pounds lighter thanks to such deleted items as the back seat, air conditioning, carpeting along with employing other weight-saving measures.

The Best Handling Mustang Ever

Besides the flat-plane crank, the current Shelby offers an important departure from previous models. Where the earlier ones excelled in all things straight-line performance, this one adds excellent handling. Yes, a muscle car with speed and the adroit handling common to Europe’s finest cars is what this latest Shelby is all about. You can thank the Ford Performance engineers for imbuing this coupe with a magnetic suspension, a cross-drilled brake system and ultra-sticky/ultra-wide Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires (surrounding 19-inch painted aluminum wheels) with improving same.

Slip behind the wheel and you may notice one thing immediately — the Recaro seats are very firm and strikingly bolstered. If you’re of a certain age, the front seats can quickly become tiresome if you’re not careful. This means spending some extra time adjusting the seat for the right position and height relative to the steering column. The last thing you want is for your Shelby driving experience negated by Recaro sport seats.

The Shelby’s red ignition button is on a panel at the bottom of the center console. It is immediately followed from left to right with switches for the emergency lights, to deactivate stability control, LC for launch control, and an exhaust note mode — sport or normal.

Buckle in, adjust your mirrors, hold down the clutch and fire up the engine. Immediately, you’ll hear a cacophonous bellow as the engine and exhaust unite to put forth the loveliest note. Drink it all in for a few moments before shifting into gear — if it is early in the morning, your neighbors may also take note and may not be a fan of this raucous outburst.

Begin moving forward and you’ll immediately notice the clean clutch uptake and smooth gear shifts. Modern manual transmission assemblies vary in usability — the Shelby’s is one of the best ones out there.

Attracting the Competition, Steering Clear of Law Enforcement

To understand what the Shelby is all about, you need to take it to a back road, free from traffic and devoid of police interceptors. En route, the Shelby announces its presence and quickly draws the attention of other drivers. Soon, Camaro, M Series, Corvette and SRT faithful will check you out— some may toot and give you a thumb’s up, while others will roar their engines or challenge you to a race. You know how best to respond!

My favorite set of twisty roads are about 20 miles from my house. It provides a straight shot for about a mile, followed by another mile of curve upon curve. Then it’s a straight shot for several more miles with the occasional bend before I turn left and begin a wonderful curving dip that takes me across a bridge before suddenly rising again. Many turns later I come to my prized location where 90-degree turns come in pairs — this is where I’m best able to gauge how a car handles.

Grip the steering wheel and take note of the sheer “weightiness.” As you turn, you’ll feel much resistance, which also supplies assurance that the steering is deliciously engaging and feedback spot on. Harder and sharper turns come by way of a cross-axis ball-joint connection for the front control arms, offering a vast improvement over the usual bushing-supported arrangement.

No, you don’t need to use launch control unless you’re obsessed with achieving and tracking your times. Otherwise, simply rev the engine and release the clutch when you’re ready to go. You’ll quickly shift into second gear and before you make your next upshift, you’ll have already passed 60 mph.

Shelby GT350: Conquering the Curves

I waited until my second set of twisty expanse to gauge just how well the Shelby hangs in the curves. The “fat boy” tires are a big help as they grip the road with no signs of loosening. That the Shelby sits even lower to the road than other Mustangs helps too. When you enter 90-degree turns, you’ll notice how poised it is with no downshifting or braking required. It is as if the Shelby is eager to plunge into the curves and does so with abandon.

Hard braking is another sign of just how refined the Shelby is. The brakes clamp down on the road with the nose remaining centered. Push hard on the gas pedal again and the GT350 quickly rebounds and stays stable when cornering.

Make a point to lower the windows when driving to take in the full chorus of hums, toots, bellows and attendant sports car noises. Although the Shelby’s cabin isn’t especially quiet, the dropped windows ensure you miss nothing. No, you can’t get a convertible with the Shelby.

Parting Thoughts

My test model was a 2017 Shelby GT350 with a base price of $54,295 plus a $950 destination charge. You’ll also pay a $1,300 gas guzzler tax. Upgrades included a ruby red metallic paint scheme ($395) and an over-the-top (roof) racing stripe ($475). A $3,000 Electronics Package added dual-zone climate control, voice-activated navigation, a CD player with satellite radio along with white striping with black accents. The final price was $60,365. These models return for 2018.

The Shelby costs about $18,000 more than the GT Premium Fastback, the next powerful Mustang. That said, if you want some of the appearance and performance attributes of the Shelby, the gap narrows to less than $15,000. Suffice to say, by choosing today’s GT350 you’re investing in a Mustang unlike any other and better than any Shelby that has gone before it, thanks to flat-plane crank and excellent handling.

2017 Shelby GT350

Sticker price from $54,295
Price as tested: $60,365
Seats four
Engine: 5.2-liter V8 gas
526 horsepower @ 7,500 RPM
429 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,750 RPM
6-speed TREMEC manual transmission
Wheelbase: 107.1 inches
Length: 188.9 inches
Width: 75.9 inches
Height: 54.2 inches
Passenger volume: 84.5 cubic feet
Storage volume: 13.5 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 14/21 mpg city/highway ($1,000 gas guzzler tax)
Premium gasoline
Fuel tank: 16 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,760 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Incomplete
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Flat Rock, Michigan

2017 Shelby GT350

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