Car Reviews

Thursday, 4 August 2016

BMW Beautifully Restored Elvis Presley’s Classic 507

BMW Beautifully Restored Elvis Presley’s Classic 507
The Grand Tour is Coming to the US and You Can be There Live
2016 Nissan Micra Cup Proves You Can Race a Cheap Car with No Power and Actually Have Fun
Ford Recalls 828K Vehicles Over Faulty Door Latches
Nissan BladeGlider Prototypes Bring Concept Car to Life
VW’s Electrification Push to Include Three Platforms for 30 Vehicles

BMW Beautifully Restored Elvis Presley’s Classic 507

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BMW has a real treat in store for those attending the 2016 Concours d'Elegance at Pebble Beach.

The German automaker calls it "one of the most spectacular classic-car discoveries of recent times," and it might very well be. BMW Group Classic has found and restored the BMW 507 driven by U.S. musician Elvis Presley while he was doing his military service in Germany. It was originally believed that the car disappeared for nearly 50 years, but after almost two years of painstaking restoration, BMW is ready to present the roadster for the first time in public at the Concours d'Elegance in Pebble Beach, California on August 21.

Sporting chassis number 70079, the classic car will be shown exactly as it was when soldier Elvis Presley took delivery on December 20, 1958, with the exterior finished in Feather White and the 150-horsepower V8 aluminum engine residing under the hood.

Naturally it was a daunting task to restore the roadster to its former glory. Even BMW admitted that the condition of the car really was a cause for concern. The original body parts and other components were virtually all present and intact, but the car had lost its engine and gearbox, while the rear axle was a replacement part of unknown origin. Rust was also eating away at the floor assembly, the seats were worn and there was no instrument panel at all.

According to BMW, the engine for the restoration was completely rebuilt from spare parts, starting with the 3.2-liter V8 getting reconditioned precisely in conformity with the original specifications of the BMW 507. And when it came to giving the classic a fresh coat of paint, BMW didn't turn to modern-day processes. Instead, the automaker applied the primer coat, the filler and the top coat using a procedure that corresponds to the technology in use some 60 years ago. This allowed BMW to avoid the excessive color brilliance that is desired in today's cars, but is deemed inappropriate on classic cars.

"The opportunity to bring back the BMW 507 owned by the King of Rock'n'Roll to us here in Munich for purposes of restoration in accordance with the wishes of the previous owner, Jack Castor, was a dream come true for all those involved," commented Ulrich Knieps, Head of BMW Group Classic. "This was an exceptionally fascinating project. The outcome is not simply a source of great pride to us. Jack would undoubtedly have been delighted by the outcome."

Discuss this story on our BMW Forum

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The Grand Tour is Coming to the US and You Can be There Live

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The Grand Tour, AKA new Top Gear is coming to California and you could be part of the experience.

Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May will be filming a studio segment for their new show on September 25, 2016 and need a live audience to be on hand for the taping. The show is travelling with a massive tent that is being used as a mobile studio for the filming of these segments.

The show will be broadcast exclusively through Amazon, which is where you'll have to go to get tickets. Applications are being excepted from August 4th at 09:00 PST until 23:59 PST midnight on August 8th.

It may not be as easy as just applying though. A follow up consisting of questions about you and your thoughts on the show is likely to make sure you're a good fit for the audience.

So what are you waiting for? Click here and apply now.

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2016 Nissan Micra Cup Proves You Can Race a Cheap Car with No Power and Actually Have Fun

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How do you make a cheap car sexy? Despite their attractive price tags, people just don't seem that excited about affordable subcompacts. But Nissan had a brilliant idea: take the super affordable Nissan Micra and put it in a thrilling spec racing series to show people what the little car is capable of.

That's right, the $10,000 Nissan Micra, one of the lowest cost cars available in Canada, is also used for racing duty across the country. We got a chance to try these little racers out, and this series is proof that subcompact cars can be awesome fun in addition to being budget friendly.

SEE ALSO: Nissan Micra Review

The Nissan Micra Cup Car is based on the Nissan Micra S. It's a base model, which means it comes with no frills. Actually, in the name of weight savings and safety, the race car has no rear seats, and the front seats have been replaced by racing seats and a three-point harness. There's also a roll cage in the car, a must-have when it comes to racing, along with a window net. Nissan then outfits the race Micra with a suspension from its NISMO division and Pirelli rubber is found at all four corners. Front brakes are of the race variety as well, but the rear drum brakes are stock.

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You'll notice a distinct lack of changes regarding the powertrain of the little Nissan. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is untouched, though there is an intake and exhaust that helps the car sound the part of a race car. Everything else about the engine is stock, meaning there's a total of 109 hp on tap, just like the road car. Gears are swapped via a five-speed manual transmission.

SEE ALSO: 2016 Ariel Atom Review

Even with no extra power, the Micra is still pretty quick because it only weighs around 2,200 lbs. The result is a responsive and agile car. Experienced first-hand on a race track, the Micra is a blast to drive and far more fun than you'd expect from a subcompact car. The lightweight, low-power nature of the car means you get to push it hard into every corner, and get to be selective about when and how to brake. Lightly braking while turning rotates the whole car, while hitting the curbing can launch the car on two wheels.

While getting up to a speed that's considered fast takes some time, the Micra is still thrilling while turning around the course. There's a good sense of speed, too, which helps amplify how much fun the whole experience is. The brakes and tires go a long way to making this car feel exhilarating. The car handles much better than any old subcompact, thanks to these modifications. Due to the low power, high grip and excellent brakes, you carry much more speed into every corner. With a brave grimace, you realize this is nothing like driving the normal Micra. This car also helps prove the point that a great car is not just the sum of high power numbers, a steep price tag and a fancy badge. The Micra gets the point across without any frills.

Naturally, since the Micra is so low cost, the race car is, too, at least relative to other motorsports. While the road car comes in at around $10,000, getting it all ready for racing brings the cost to around $23,000. Still, that's affordable in the world of race cars. In fact, its about half the price of a Mazda MX-5 Cup Car. Running the car costs about $30,000 per season, which is enough to cover transportation, entry fees, fuel and other consumables.

Watching the racing in action is eye-opening. Due to the limited modifications made to the cars, the competition is really tight. Watching the recent race taking place at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Bowmanville, Ont., it's clear that 20-something race cars on track at once is quite the spectacle, with close racing for the whole event. Winning the race comes down to driver skill.

The Micra Cup Series is now in its second year, and this year sees racers coming to Ontario in addition to Quebec. There are more than just weekend racers involved in the sport, too. For example, gamers-turned-drivers from Nissan's GT Academy are here, showing off their Gran Turismo-honed skills.

They don't have a ton of features, they don't have a lot of power, and they're often seen as cute little toys to use around town. But that's not the case for the Nissan Micra, a car that's not only affordable and small, but used in its own racing series. It is quite a unique way to sell a $10,000 car.

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Ford Recalls 828K Vehicles Over Faulty Door Latches

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Ford has issued a recall for 828,000 vehicles over door latches that may not close properly.

A wide range of Ford vehicles are affected by the problem, including the 2013-2015 C-Max, 2013-2015 Escape, 2012-2015 Focus, 2015 Mustang, 2014-2016 Transit Connect and the 2015 Lincoln MKC.

The problem is with a pawl spring tab that can break, resulting typically in a door that cannot latch. In certain situations, the door may be able to close, which can lead to the door opening while the car is moving.

Ford is focusing the recall on 16 states that have high ambient temperatures, believed to be the cause of the problem. They are Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, Oregon and Washington.

Customers outside of these states will be able to use a new satisfaction program to get their vehicles with a broken door latch fixed for free, though the fix will only be performed once.

One accident and injury has been reported as a result of this recall.

Discuss this story at our Ford Forum

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Nissan BladeGlider Prototypes Bring Concept Car to Life

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Nissan has taken its BladeGlider concept car from a display piece to a working prototype to show off its future technology.

Originally unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Show in 2013 as a concept car, Nissan has now built working BladeGlider prototypes to show off its commitment to zero-emissions vehicles and self-driving tech.

After two years of design, engineering and development work, the BladeGlider is now a real functioning EV which rides on an advanced chassis which has a wide rear track and narrow front track for optimum aerodynamic efficiency and improved handling. Dihedral doors helps to increase the dramatic flair of the new electric sports car.

Top speed for the car is pegged at 115 mph, while the jump from 0 to 62 mph will take less than five seconds. Full power output from the electric motor is 268 horsepower and a whopping 521 lb-ft of torque. Curb weight measures in at 2866 pounds.

To help it handle, the car uses torque vectoring technology that has three different drive settings: off, agile and drift mode.

Inside, the BladeGlider features a single front seat for the driver which is mounted in the center of the vehicle, with two passengers seat behind. Nissan used plenty of eye-catching colors, including reflective silver material along with green and orange trim to make this interior really stand out.

The two BladeGlider prototypes will spend all August in Rio de Janeiro at the Olympics. One will be on static display while the other will offer rides to the media and VIPs.

Discuss this story at our Nissan Forum

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VW’s Electrification Push to Include Three Platforms for 30 Vehicles

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More details on Volkswagen's plan to launch an onslaught of electrified vehicles have come to light.

The German brand is working on three dedicated electric-vehicle platforms along with more utility vehicles and several new low-cost budget vehicles.

According to VW Group of America's chief engineering officer, 30 different all-electric vehicles will be spawned from three platforms. Each one will be modular with the flexibility to have different sized wheelbases and tracks to suit different brands.

VW has already shown off the BUDD-e van concept which is based on the MEB (Modular Electric Toolkit) platform. The concept has a totally flat floor packed with lithium ion battery packs, capable of driving the van up to 233 miles and recouping an 80 percent charge in just 30 minutes.

Volkswagen recently agreed to a massive $20 billion settlement in the U.S. that will cover the cost of its diesel emissions scandal, a large portion of which will go to environmental reparations.

[Source: Automotive News]

Discuss this story at our Volkswagen Forum

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Wednesday, 3 August 2016

Bugatti Just Sold Two Rare Show Cars to a Saudi Prince

Bugatti Just Sold Two Rare Show Cars to a Saudi Prince
Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster Rumored for September Debut
How Gaming is Making Driving More Fun
Hyundai Genesis Coupe Discontinued
Poll: Ram 1500 or Chevrolet Silverado 1500?
2017 Infiniti QX30 Priced from $30,945

Bugatti Just Sold Two Rare Show Cars to a Saudi Prince

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Bugatti just sold two extremely rare concept cars to the the highest bidder.

The purchaser, Instagram user b14, is said to be a member of Saudi Arabia's Saud ruling family. Bugatti sold him the actual Chiron that was presented to the world at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show alongside the Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo Concept, a car created purely for the fantasy world of the Gran Turismo racing video game.

The price surrendered for the pair of cars is unknown, though Bugatti did say that the buyer submitted "the most convincing bid," also implying that there may have been others bidding for the chance to take home these two rare cars.

Photographer GFWilliams posted photos of the two cars on Facebook, each one fit with a Saudi Arabian license plate. The Bugatti Gran Turismo Concept will be on display at the upcoming Pebble Beach Councours d'Elegance, so assumably the owner won't take possession of the car until after that. A Chiron will also be shown during Monterey Car Week, though it wasn't clear if it is the Geneva show car.

Neither of these two cars were designed to actually operate on the road, but they are apparently both fit with the brand's quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter W16 engine.

[Source: Carscoops & GFWilliams]

Discuss this story at our Luxury Lifestyle Forum

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Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster Rumored for September Debut

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Spy photographers have already caught it testing, and now we hear that the Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster could bow as early as September.

Australia's Motoring reports that Mercedes-AMG will bring two versions of the new GT Roadster to this year's Paris Motor Show in late September, the entry-level model and the new GT C trim that spy photographers have caught on camera.

It's still unclear where the GT C will sit in the sports car's lineup, with rumors suggesting that it will slot between the base model and the GT S based on Mercedes-Benz's nomenclature. There is a possibility that the GT C is the result of the GT R's development, receiving some of what makes the GT R so special like its wider track and upgraded suspension.

If the Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster does make its debut at the Paris Motor Show, it coincides with a leaked roadmap that says it will head to dealerships by mid-2017. Following the GT C Roadster's arrival, it is expected that Mercedes-AMG will offer the same variant on the coupe model as well.

[Source: Motoring]

Discuss this story on our Mercedes-AMG GT Forum

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How Gaming is Making Driving More Fun

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Imagine if cars were just made for transportation duties. All we would see on the roads are boring boxes on wheels. Fortunately, that's not the world we live in, and car designers have made sure that our cars are fun.

That fun can be found in the exterior appearance, the performance and the handling, but automakers are also putting in little games into cars to help lighten up the load of driving and make it more entertaining. Not only that, but cars are getting video game-inspired tweaks that help the vehicles appeal to a wider audience: one that grew up with a gamepad in their hands.

For example, the Nissan GT-R's central display screen features graphics and visuals designed by the same team behind the popular Gran Turismo games for Playstation. One look at the display, and it's clear that it was inspired by head-up displays from video games.

Hyundai Veloster Blue Max Game

Many cars are using games to encourage drivers to be more fuel efficient. Hyundai and the earlier iteration of the Veloster had one of the more interesting applications, as a there's a hidden game in the settings that awards points to efficient drivers. Actions like coasting, changing into the correct gear at the right time, and accelerating and braking smoothly would all net points. Owners could compare scores to boast about how efficiently they were driving.

Mustang Line Lock and Track Apps

Gamers can probably all admit to trying a few radical things in racing games, like say, meaty burnouts. But doing stuff like that in the real world isn't as easy as it looks in the games. Fortunately, new cars are coming with tools to help make you look like a video game action hero. Take the new Mustang with the performance package and track apps, for example. Thanks to an easy-to-use, video game-like interface for the electronic line-lock function, you can easily learn how to safely do burnouts without reading an entire owner's manual. Of course, this feature is better suited for the track, where you aren't going to be a nuisance turning your tires into smoke (which is a noisy and smelly affair).

Corvette Performance Data Recorder

A cool feature in racing games is the ability to record your lap times and compete against it. Corvettes are starting to incorporate some of that idea with the available Performance Data Recorder, or PDR. In simple terms, it's an integrated GoPro camera that can overlay info like your throttle position, g-forces, steering angle, location on the track and your speed on the video footage. The resulting footage looks exactly like it would in a first-person racing game. It's a great way to show your friends your fast lap times, or use it as a learning tool to help you go faster.

Chevrolet Volt Balance Ball

The Chevrolet Volt is an extended range electric vehicle. In simpler terms, it's a plug-in hybrid vehicle with a beefy electric battery and a gas-powered engine that kicks in once the battery is depleted. The biggest goal of cars like this is to maximize range, and Chevrolet's dashboard game helps coach drivers to be more energy efficient. It works by displaying a ball on the digital gauge cluster. If you accelerate too quickly or brake too suddenly, the ball moves up or down. The goal is to keep it perfectly centered for as long as you can. Achieve that, and you'll maximize your range!

Ford Efficiency Leaves

Ford has something similar in its cars. Called "Efficiency Leaves," the car will display a vine on the gauge cluster. Drive efficiently and leaves will start growing and if you're really good, flowers can bloom. The more efficiently you drive, more leaves and flowers will grow. In the Ford Focus Electric, the leaves are replaced with butterflies, but no caterpillars, so no need to be worried if you're the type to be afraid of creepy crawlers.

Ford Focus RS Drift Mode

Remember Ridge Racer, or Project Gotham Racing, where style trumped speed? Those games would encourage you to go everywhere sideways. Back in the real world, however, controllably drifting a car is an acquired skill, but not if you have the new Focus RS. Drift mode will sort out and help you maintain a cool drift around corners, so you can live out your video game dreams.

Vision Gran Turismo

If you need any more proof that the world of cars and video games are converging, take a look at the Vision Gran Turismo program. Automakers are creating awesome concepts for the Gran Turismo video game, then making them into real things to display at auto shows and other events. Some automakers are even using the Vision GT concepts to influence their real cars. This is the path Bugatti took with the new Chiron hypercar, and Aston Martin's latest hyper car, the AM-RB 1000 is very much like the Aston Martin DP-100 Vision GT concept for Gran Turismo.

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Hyundai Genesis Coupe Discontinued

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Hyundai's rear-drive sports coupe is dead.

First reported by the Globe and Mail, the Genesis Coupe's 2016 model year will be its last in the U.S. and Canada, a company spokesperson confirmed today. A replacement is expected to follow sometime after 2017, but it won't carry the Hyundai badge.

With Genesis now its own brand, the automaker can't have a model that carries both names. The coupe's platform mate, the former Hyundai Genesis sedan, transforms into the Genesis G80 for 2017, but its two-door sibling won't make the cut.

"A new, more sophisticated and luxurious coupe appropriate for the new Genesis brand is currently under development," said Christine Henley, PR manager for Hyundai Motor America, after confirming the discontinuation.

So, the four- and six-cylinder sports coupe that arrived in North America in 2009 as a 2010 model leaves the market after a two-generation run. Its departure leaves Hyundai without a traditional sporty offering.

As for Genesis, the luxury marque's initial offerings are the 2017 G80 midsize sedan and G90 full-size sedan, with a compact G70 sedan and two crossovers expected to follow. A sixth model — which we now know to be the coupe — should appear within a few years.

This article originally appeared on Thetruthaboutcars.com

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Poll: Ram 1500 or Chevrolet Silverado 1500?

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Which hard-working pickup truck would YOU rather own, the stylish Ram 1500 or Chevrolet's ready-for-anything Silverado 1500? Vote in our latest poll!

There's more than one way to skin a cat, though why you'd want to abuse felines is beyond us. In any event, both FCA and GM think they have the right solution for customers that need a truck, though there are some important differences between their offerings.

Starting with the Ram, this "half-ton" model offers a range of powertrains and some intriguing features. Underhood, several excellent engines are offered including a base 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 305 horses and 269 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up from there you can also get a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 that's good for 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of twist.

These gasoline options are rock solid, but the most intriguing option is a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine. It delivers a rather meager 240 horses but it packs a wallop in the form of 420 units of twist. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard with some engines and trims but an economical eight-speed self-shifting gearbox is paired with other models.

Aside from its available diesel engine, one of the Ram's other signature features is optional air suspension.

Focusing on the Silverado 1500 now, it offers three engines, all of which consume gasoline. The base unit is a 4.3-liter V6. It puts out 285 horsepower and 297 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up from there, you can get a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horses and 383 units of twist. The top offering is a 6.2-liter V8 that's good for 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft.

All of these engines feature aluminum construction and direct fuel injection for weight savings and greater efficiency. As for transmissions, two automatics are offered in the Silverado, one with six speeds and another with eight ratios.

Signature features in the Chevy include available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Duralife brake rotors for extended performance and trailer sway control for towing confidence.

For more information on these trucks, please compare them here. And don't forget to vote for a favorite!

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2017 Infiniti QX30 Priced from $30,945

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Infiniti has released pricing for its new QX30 crossover, which starts at $30,945 including destination costs.

That makes it cheaper than its platform mate the Mercedes GLA, along with its main competitors the Lexus NX and BMW X1.

At the bottom level, the QX30 is fitted with standard features like a seven-inch touchscreen, LED daytime running lights, paddle shifters and dual automatic climate control. A turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine provides 208 horsepower to every trim of the QX30.

SEE ALSO: 2017 Infiniti QX30 Review

Jumping up to the Luxury model, which sells for $33,595, brings along Nappa leather, heated eight-way power adjustable front seats and a rear seat pass through. Premium models, priced at $36,295, get a Bose stereo system, rain-sensing windshield wipers, LED fog lamps, aluminum kickplates and chrome trim.

At the top of the range is the QX30 Sport which sells for $39,495 and packs a gloss black grille, a lower ride height and unique fascias in the front and rear. A flat-bottom steering wheel, aluminum wrapped pedals, Intelligent Park Assist and sport seats are also included.

Only Luxury and Premium models can be had with all-wheel drive, which cost $35,395 and $38,695 respectively.

Discuss this story at our Infiniti QX30 Forum

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Tuesday, 2 August 2016

Shelby GT350 Turns Into a Great Ball of Fire

Shelby GT350 Turns Into a Great Ball of Fire
Mercedes-Benz Considering Electric Sprinter Van
Mystery Corvette Spy Photos Could Show New ZR1
Maserati Considering MC12 Successor
How Lincoln Black Label Elevates Customer Service: Curbed with Craig Cole
Tesla CEO Lets Details Slip on Model Y, Minibus

Shelby GT350 Turns Into a Great Ball of Fire

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Roebling Road Raceway in Georgia was the scene of a Shelby GT350's self immolation after it began puking oil at vicious velocity.

According to HiPo Joe on Facebook, a catastrophic engine failure was at fault. Supposedly a snap ring in the Shelby's oil cooler thermostat let go, sending buckets of oil streaming out of the block–when the free falling oil found the catalytic converter, Joe got ignition.

Fire will freak you out enough; but how about when it happens at 100 mph and boils your brake fluid? This is exactly what happened to Joe in his own words:

"The heat from the flames must have been very intense as the brake fluid boiled and the brake pedal went to the floor. So now I'm still running 100+ MPH on fire with no brakes."

This is where situational awareness and smarts come into play. With no brakes, Joe tries the emergency brake, but knows he can't just yank the lever and risk a 100 mph spin while on fire:

"With no hydraulic brakes I tried to use the emergency brake. I knew that I couldn't yank it up because it would lock the rear wheels causing me to lose what little bit of control I had. About 20% through the travel of the lever, the cable snapped."

Now what?

"Sometime during all this, I had turned the car off. So I've got zero brakes and no power steering. By now I've also got fire in the cabin and I'm still hauling ass burning like a meteor on reentry. I did the only other thing I knew to do. I put the car in first gear and dumped the clutch. Some how I was able to get the car stopped without losing control less than 30' from corner station and the fire extinguishers."

Luckily the incident happened on track where safety staff could reach him quickly with the necessary equipment.

Ford has actually purchased the 2016 GT350 back from Joe and he's currently in the process of bringing home a 2017 GT350R.

A version of this article originally appeared on Allfordmustangs.com

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Mercedes-Benz Considering Electric Sprinter Van

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With plans to launch its first fully electric heavy-duty truck, Mercedes-Benz is in the early planning stages for an electrified Sprinter medium-duty van.

Ulf Zillig, head of developing the next generation Sprinter, told The Detroit Bureau that if market demand supports it, the next generation Sprinter would use electric powertrains and autonomous driving.

In the U.S. for the ground-breaking of the new $500 million van plant that the company is planning to build in Charleston, S.C., Zillig said the van engineering teams at Mercedes-Benz are able to share technology across the company's divisions.

This news follows last week's debut of the Mercedes-Benz Urban eTruck, a prototype fully electric heavy-duty truck capable of hauling up to 26 tons.

The tall, narrow Sprinter van has been a mainstay in Europe and other overseas markets for a number of years.

It was launched in the U.S. in 2001 through the heavy-duty Freightliner brand, which is owned by Mercedes parent Daimler.

Volker Mornhinweg, the head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, told reporters that pressure will likely grow for still other alternatives, with battery-electric versions of the Sprinter and smaller Metris vans under serious consideration.

He noted that there has already been interest from courier fleet companies in Europe, and Federal Express along with UPS are showing interest in the idea of electric vans.

In Europe, Mercedes introduced an electric Metris small van in 2012. It had early success but sales have tapered off.

Mercedes isn't the only automaker with plans for building electric vans.

Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk recently said that the electric-vehicle company is going to enter the electric van market and would use the Model X sport utility as the platform, with more on this to be divulged later.

Mercedes officials say the electric Sprinter vans likely won't be produced until the end of the decade — about the same time as the Charleston plant begins rolling out the American-made Sprinter.

[Source: Detroit Bureau]

This article originally appeared on Hybridcars.com

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Mystery Corvette Spy Photos Could Show New ZR1

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Fresh spy photos of a Chevy Corvette C7-based prototype have surfaced, showing what could be the new ZR1.

Despite the heavy camo on the front end, this car appears to have large air vents on its front corners, usually used to feed intercoolers. Though again its tough to tell exactly, the hood also looks like it may be using a larger "power dome," allowing more air to flow under the hood.

Under the hood, a twin-turbo V8 is rumored to provide power, explaining the new vents in the front end. A website for aftermarket company Katech Performance has poured fuel on the fire with a listing for a Corvette using an "LT5" engine, a new designation that could denote the new turbo V8.

This prototype is also packing blue brake calipers, a staple feature of the ZR1.

Out back, two pedestals where a spoiler would attach are visible, marking a departure from the current ducktail setup, not surprising considering the ZR1's power boost would be better used with more downforce.

All of that being said, this car could also simply be a prototype for the updated 2017 Corvette Z06, which is expected to offer better cooling to address some overheating issues. The changes seen on this prototype seem more significant than the small update to the Z06 that was expected though, pointing us towards the ZR1 rumor.

An all-new mid-engine Corvette is also said to be in the works, so if the ZR1 rumors prove to be true, this would be a final swan song for the C7 model before it is replaced.

Discuss this story at our Chevy Corvette Forum

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Maserati Considering MC12 Successor

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The 2004 Maserati MC12 was a limited-edition model based on the Ferrari Enzo, and it looks like a successor following the same guidelines is on the way.

Maserati boss Harald Wester confirmed the news to Autocar, saying that Maserati "could do a limited edition, but not yet." Right now, the brand is working on refreshing the Ghibli and Quattroporte sedans, while a successor to the GranTurismo is currently in the works.

The new GranTurismo model "will not be to the same formula," as the current car according to Wester, thanks to "accelerating technology." Exactly what this means was not divulged, but it is clear that a convertible version of the new GranTurismo isn't likely because there is no demand for it in China.

The new limited-edition model could once again borrow its bones from a Ferrari, though Maserati also has access to the carbon-fiber tub used for the Alfa Romeo 4C, which could serve as the basis for this new special model. Currently, the 4C's body is built at Maserati's Modena plant.

Wester also believes that Maseratis are being sold too cheaply, a problem that a limited-edition model would help to solve. Despite this feeling, prices won't jump up quickly, as the brand chief plans to raise transaction prices "over time."

[Source: Autocar]

Discuss this story at our Luxury Lifestyle Forum

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How Lincoln Black Label Elevates Customer Service: Curbed with Craig Cole

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Cadillac is adored for building engaging, emotional vehicles like the CTS-V and the ATS. In contrast, Lincoln receives scorn for its lineup because people think it is comprised largely of warmed-over Fords.

Rather than trying to compete with sporty rivals, the division named after the 16^th president of the United States is taking a customer-focused approach to growing its business, one that focuses on offering unique ownership experiences that rival brands don't necessarily match.

How is Lincoln elevating its game in an admittedly crowded luxury market? Well, it has introduced something called Black Label, and no, it has nothing to do with a certain brand of Scotch whiskey. In simple terms, you can think of it as a top-tier vehicle trim that includes a surfeit of additional benefits.

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Black Label starts with special – and very high-quality – themed interiors. In the MKX crossover, for instance, four are offered including Thoroughbred, Modern Heritage, The Muse and Indulgence. The last of those offerings features rich, dark-brown Venetian leather throughout and was supposedly inspired by high-end chocolate.

2016-Lincoln-MKX-Black-Label-Interior-02

According to Lincoln, fewer than 1 percent of cow hides make the grade for softness and durability, meaning Venetian leather is extremely premium. Brushing your hand across a seat or the dashboard is all it takes to appreciate the richness of this buttery-soft material.

So far, you can get Black Label versions of the MKX and MKC crossovers as well as the MKZ sedan. Lincoln's upcoming Continental will also offer it, and there are plans to expand it to future models, too. You've got to think the next-generation Navigator will offer it as well. But beyond unique interiors, there's plenty more to talk about here.

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SEE ALSO: 2016 Lincoln MKX Review

For starters, customers are treated to premium service and extended protection. With Black Label models, all required maintenance is covered for the duration of the vehicle's four-year/50,000-mile warranty. This includes wear items like brakes, hoses, shocks, wiper blades and more.

Making this even easier, a pickup and drop-off service is included in the package as well, along with a free loner car, if required. Annual vehicle detailing is also bundled with Black Label vehicles at no extra charge. That's right, once a year they'll scrub and polish your Lincoln from stem to stern without charging you a nickel. Customers even can avail themselves of free carwashes at any Black Label dealership, of which there are about 90 in the U.S. right now.

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In addition to all of these benefits, there's also a gastronomic aspect to this program. The Black Label Culinary Collection gives you access to range of fine restaurants across the country that Lincoln has partnered with to provide bespoke dining experiences. You can easily get reservations at these establishments through an exclusive Lincoln concierge. Just give them a call.

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To learn even more about the benefits of Lincoln's new Black Label service, please check out the video embedded above. You won't be disappointed!

Discuss this story on our Ford Forum

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Tesla CEO Lets Details Slip on Model Y, Minibus

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Tesla CEO Elon Musk has taken the Twitter, again, to divulge some future product details.

Musk has confirmed that the brand's upcoming compact crossover will be called the Model Y and will be based on the upcoming Model 3 platform. "Model Y (compact SUV) off Model 3 chassis," tweeted Musk. The Model 3 will be the brand's first high-volume offering and is expected to launch in 2017, so expect the Model Y sometime after that.

Musk recently revealed Tesla's second master plan, where he outlined the brand's intent to build the compact crossover along with an all-electric, self-driving bus that will change public transit in the future. "The Tesla Minibus will be built on a Model X chassis. People density potential is surprisingly high," says Musk.

Tesla's view of the future includes driverless buses that can be summoned by the press of a button and can drop you off right at your front door. Along with an all-electric heavy-duty semi-truck, Tesla's new minibus is said to be ready to debut next year.

The brand is also working on a pickup truck which will eventually spawn a cargo van to compete with the Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter.

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Monday, 1 August 2016

Lexus LC F Rumors Heat Up with Hot New Renders

Lexus LC F Rumors Heat Up with Hot New Renders
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Ending Car Production in US
Mercedes-Benz E-Class All Terrain Spied Testing its Towing Capabilities
Win a Set of Continental Tires Right Here on AutoGuide.com

Lexus LC F Rumors Heat Up with Hot New Renders

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The Lexus LC F is rumored to bring 600 horsepower to the table.

Japanese magazine Best Car has released renders of what the Lexus LC F could look like, with a bold front end that features aerodynamic bits and plenty of carbon fiber. In the rear, the publication drew a bit of inspiration from the Lexus LFA, and we have to admit the bumper and diffuser looks more at home than the standard production's more refined, luxurious rear end.

Ever since the LC500's debut earlier this year at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show, it has been reported that a convertible and a high-performance variant are in the works, both of which have been approved by Toyota president Akio Toyoda.

A convertible would be a natural offering for the lineup, but the Lexus LC F is what has many wondering if Lexus will create a true competitor in the supercar segment. Rumor has it that a twin-turbo V8 engine packing 600 hp would be used under the hood, and Best Car even included a photo of a possible Super GT 500 race car version in its article.

If all goes well, the magazine believes the LC F could make its debut as early as 2018, giving both the Acura NSX and Nissan GTR a new competitor from Japan.

[Source: Lexus Enthusiast]

Discuss this story on our Lexus F Forum

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Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Ending Car Production in US

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Once bailed out by the U.S., Chrysler will no longer be producing cars in the U.S. by early next year.

Chrysler has changed quite a bit since its bailout, having been acquired by Fiat and renamed Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). And now, the company's U.S. plants will focus solely on producing Jeep SUVs and Ram pickup trucks, as it winds down production of the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Dart models. FCA's remaining cars will be built in Mexico, Canada, or other foreign nations.

Ending passenger car production in the U.S. has been part of CEO Sergio Marchionne's plan to increase profit margins so that FCA can better compete in the market. Speaking to Wall Street analysts last week, Marchionne confirmed that "all those U.S. plants will be producing either Jeeps or Ram." Once passenger cars are no longer produced in the U.S., Marchionne believes that there's a possibility its profit margin will get very close to the 12.1 percent General Motors recently reported as part of its second-quarter earnings.

The future of the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Dart are still up in the air, as FCA is still actively looking for a partner that is willing to produce the two cars. Marchionne confirmed it has been making progress, but the company is currently not in a position to announce anything.

FCA is planning to invest $1.49-billion to retool its Sterling Heights plant in Michigan to make the Ram 1500, which will move from its current plant in Warren when production begins in 2018. Last month, FCA also announced it was investing $1-billion for Jeep plant upgrades, moving production of the Cherokee from Toledo, Ohio to Belvedere, Illinois, so that it can expand Wrangler production in Toledo.

[Source: USA Today]

Discuss this story on our Fiat Chrysler Forum

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Mercedes-Benz E-Class All Terrain Spied Testing its Towing Capabilities

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Spy photographers have caught the Mercedes-Benz E-Class All Terrain testing.

The more rugged variant of the E-Class Wagon is expected to bow at the 2016 Paris Motor Show in late September, before it heads to dealerships to compete with the Audi A6 Allroad. Expect it to sit higher with redesigned front and rear bumpers to go along with the bulging wheel arches. Rumor has it that the model will have a different suspension setup, believed to be an adaptive air system that will raise the All Terrain's ride height to make it more capable off-road.

Naturally, the German automaker's 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system will be standard and it will likely share its powertrains with the existing gasoline and diesel engines offered in the E-Class family.

Currently Mercedes-Benz has no plans of bringing the E-Class All Terrain to the U.S., but it's not entirely out of the question since the E-Class Wagon is sold in North America. Also, Audi offers the A4 Allroad in the U.S., so don't count out the E-Class All Terrain just yet.

Discuss this story on our Mercedes-Benz Forum

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Win a Set of Continental Tires Right Here on AutoGuide.com

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Looking for a new set of rubber for you car? AutoGuide.com and DiscountTire.com want to help you win a new set of tires.

All you need to do is sign up for the AutoGuide.com newsletter and you'll be entered for the chance to win a brand new set of either Continental ControlContact Sport A/S tires or Continental ControlContact Tour A/S tires. Full contest details can be found on the contest entry page.

The ControlContact Tour tires are all-seasons, delivering good wet weather performance thanks to traction grooves and siping. A 90,000-mile limited tread wear warranty indicates how serious Continental is about backing up their durability. Sizing ranges from 14 inches to 17 inches, 55-65 series, which makes these tires an ideal fit for the following vehicles:

Chevy Impala or Malibu
Honda Accord, Civic or Odyssey
Hyundai Elantra and Sonata
Kia Forte, Optima and Soul
Nissan Altima and Sentra
Toyota Camry, Corolla and Sienna

Looking for something a little more sporty? The ControlContact Sport A/S is an ultra-high performance all-season tire, delivering responsive handling in all weather conditions thanks to carefully engineered siping, the asymmetrical tire tread and large biting edges. A 50,000-mile warranty covers these tires, which are available from 16 inches up to 20 inches. These would fit great on:

Scion FR-S/Toyota 86
Subaru BRZ
Mazda MX-5
Hyundai Veloster

If you can't hold out for the contest to run its course and need new tires right now, DiscountTire.com is holding a promotion for the first half of August, and you can get some great savings on the ControlContact Sport or Tour all-season tires and other Continental products.

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