BMW Teams Up With Montblanc for a Line of Lifestyle Accessories

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• BMW Teams Up With Montblanc for a Line of Lifestyle Accessories
• Volkswagen, US Looking to Settle Criminal Probe Over Diesel Scandal
• Dodge Unveils Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona in Time for Woodward Dream Cruise
• Help Us Pick the Best Cars Being Auctioned in Monterey This Week
• 7 Cars Americans Can Buy That Canadians Can’t
• BMW Going Ahead with 9 Series to Rival Mercedes-Benz Maybach

BMW Teams Up With Montblanc for a Line of Lifestyle Accessories Posted: BMW has teamed up with Montblanc for a special collection of lifestyle accessories. The Montblanc for BMW Special Edition collection will be presented during 2016 Monterey Car Week at BMW's Villa at Pebble Beach. The collection of lifestyle accessories were designed specifically for the 2016 BMW 7 Series that launched last year. "The collection is inspired by the spirit of innovation and heritage of sophistication that unite the luxury Maison and the dynamic automaker," BMW said in a release. 2016 Monterey Car Week Coverage Montblanc for BMW Special Edition will be available for purchase through local BMW Centers and will also be on display at select BMW locations, as well as four Montblanc Boutiques: Yorkdale, Houston, Miami Aventura and New York Madison Ave. You can also purchase the items online through Montblanc's website. We took a look at what's available online, which includes a cabin bag for $765, business card holder in black for $205, document slim case in black for $590, key sleeve for $290 and a passport holder in black for $225. There are of course also a pair of pens for $565 or $780 and a BMW Blue ink bottle for $20. Discuss this story on our BMW Forum Loading, please wait...

Volkswagen, US Looking to Settle Criminal Probe Over Diesel Scandal Posted: The Volkswagen Group and the U.S. Justice Department are in preliminary talks to settle a criminal probe into the automaker's massive diesel scandal. The Wall Street Journal reports that Volkswagen could be fined an additional $1.2-billion and it's currently unclear if U.S. prosecutors will criminally charge Volkswagen employees. Since many of the company's employees live in Germany, they would need to be extradited to face prosecution in the U.S. It is also being reported that the U.S. Justice Department hasn't determined a specific criminal charge with Volkswagen. The investigation is moving slowly due to complications with separate civil suits filed in three U.S. states. SEE ALSO: Volkswagen Reportedly Used Three Software Cheats on V6 Diesel Engines In June, the German automaker agreed to pay as much as $15.3-billion after admitting it has been cheating on diesel emissions tests in the U.S. for years. Volkswagen has put aside $10-billion to buy back vehicles from owners and will spend up to $2.7-billion over three years to enable government and tribal agencies to replace old buses or to fund infrastructure to reduce diesel emissions. It will also spend $2-billion over 10 years to help fund programs directed by the state of California and the EPA to promote the construction of electric vehicle chargers, development of zero-emission ride-sharing fleets and other efforts to boost sales of cars that do not use gasoline. [Source: Automotive News] Discuss this story on our Volkswagen Forum Loading, please wait...

Dodge Unveils Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona in Time for Woodward Dream Cruise Posted: Dodge has unveiled two heritage-inspired cars just in time for the 2016 Woodward Dream Cruise: The 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A and the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona. Although the two muscle cars don't get any horsepower upgrades, enhancements have been made for better performance and the cars also get retro styling inspired by the brand's classic race-bred models. Both cars are available with the legendary 6.4-liter naturally aspirated 392 HEMI V8 with 485 horsepower or the 5.7L V8 with 375 hp and a new active performance exhaust system. The 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A starts with a Challenger R/T model and adds "air  catcher" headlights, a functional hood duct that optimizes cold air intake, a new 2.75-inch electronically controlled active performance exhaust system, and bigger 20×9-inch forged aluminum wheels finished in black. Chassis upgrades include a 0.5-inch lower suspension, high-performance Bilstein shocks absorbers, performance brake linings, the ability to turn the ESC completely off, and high-po Goodyear Eagle F1 tires. A six-speed manual is standard and an eight-speed auto with paddle shifters is optional. It also comes with cylinder deactivation so it can run on four-cylinders under a light load. ALSO SEE: Top 5 Reasons the Dodge Viper Should Live On On the outside, the Challenger T/A gets a satin black hood, front fascia and other accents, along with a new limited-edition Green Go or Yellow Jacket paint job. Factory-installed hood pins are also available. Inside, drivers will find houndstooth seats, a performance steering wheel and retro-inspired gauge clusters. The 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona also builds on the R/T model and adds a Mopar cold air induction system, the active performance exhaust, and the same chassis upgrades as the Challenger T/A as well as a beefier rear differential. On the outside, the Daytona gets Scat Pack-inspired fascias, Satin Black accents, bigger wheels, unique badging and a lot of the same interior upgrades seen in the Challenger T/A. Production of the 2017 Dodge Challenger T/A and the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona starts this fall. Orders for the Charger open up in September, while customers can start ordering the Challenger in October. The Challenger T/A starts at $37,390 excluding destination in the U.S., and drivers can further upgrade with a T/A Plus or T/A 392 model. The Challenger Daytona starts at $39,890 and can also be upgraded with a 392 model. Loading, please wait...

Help Us Pick the Best Cars Being Auctioned in Monterey This Week Posted: Monterey Car Week is a large gathering of some of the wealthiest people in the world, so naturally, a lot of classic cars change hands. There are plenty of different auctions taking place, run by companies like RM Sothebys and Bonhams. We've saved you some time by combing through all of the auctions to bring you a list of 10 classic beauties that are set to cross the auction block. We also couldn't resist throwing some modern hypercar performance on the list for good measure. Upvote the cars you love and downvote the ones you don't like, and check back later to see the results! Loading, please wait...

7 Cars Americans Can Buy That Canadians Can’t Posted: Michael Phelps has won more gold medals in the pool at the last four Summer Olympics than the whole Team Canada claimed, across all events, in the last seven. Despite currently producing more total medals per capita than the American team in Rio, Canadians can be found suffering from an inferiority complex. And yes, per capita medal counts are the kinds of statistics you can expect from the citizens of a nation that suffer from an inferiority complex. It doesn't help that Canada's new vehicle market, one-ninth the size of the U.S. market, is deemed too small to benefit from one of the planet's best sports sedan values, the Chevrolet SS. Yet the Chevrolet SS is by no means the only new vehicle on sale in the United States that doesn't cross the border. We're not talking about specific powertrain variants or trim packages. (Toyota sells an Avalon Hybrid in the U.S., for instance. American Honda will market a front-wheel-drive Ridgeline that won't be sold in Canada.) No, these are seven distinct members of an automaker's portfolio, which for one reason or another, are not in keeping with modified brand strategies in two markets which otherwise share so much. Buick Cascada Let's face it: weather matters. Canadians do buy convertibles, but in much of the country, there are only a few months in which a convertible can be routinely driven roof-down. Therefore, attempting to sell a low-volume car through Buick outlets — Buick earned half as much Canadian market share as U.S. share in July — would perhaps be a waste of time. Chevrolet SS As already mentioned, the Australian-sourced Chevrolet SS doesn't make its way any farther north in North America than it already has. Those who know the history of GM's most recent Aussie imports won't be surprised. The 2004-2006 Pontiac GTO didn't find its way to Canada. Sales of the Pontiac G8 in the United States easily outperformed the Canadian results even though the Pontiac brand as a whole was consistently an overperformer in Canada. Hyundai Azera There were Hyundai Azeras and Azera predecessors sold in Canada. But with the dawn of the current Azera, Hyundai Canada decided to place their luxury eggs in a single Genesis-shaped basket. Hyundai's U.S. product planners now seem to agree, and the Azera is nearing the end of its U.S. run. Hyundai Canada hasn't sold an Azera since 2010. Nissan Rogue Select  It's not that automakers operating in Canada are entirely unwilling to offer current model year examples of previous-generation vehicles. After Volkswagen replaced the Mk4 Volkswagen Golf with the temporarily-renamed Rabbit, Volkswagen Canada continued to market the Mk4 Golf, albeit facelifted and renamed City Golf. The first Nissan Rogue, however, was introduced in 2007, and it was no class leader then. Canadians have, however, made the current Rogue the country's fourth-best-selling utility vehicle. Nissan Versa Sedan Combined, the Nissan Versa sedan and Nissan Versa Note hatchback are overwhelmingly America's favourite subcompact car. In Canada, Nissan's strategy is different. The Versa sedan, which appeals to Nissan's most budget-minded consumer in the United States, was supplanted north of the border by the Nissan Micra and its sub-$10K advertised Canadian base price. Scion iA * Technically, the Scion iA is not a part of Toyota Canada's Scion lineup. (Scion didn't begin selling cars in Canada until 2010, seven years after the brand was launched in the U.S.) The Scion iA is nevertheless in Toyota's lineup in Canada, only it's marketed as a Yaris sedan. In neither case is this humble but fun sedan labelled with complete accuracy. This is a Mexican-built Mazda2, which Mazda sells in Mexico and Puerto Rico as a Mazda2. With Scion folding, the Scion iA will become the Toyota Yaris iA. Timothy Cain is the founder of GoodCarBadCar.net, which obsesses over the free and frequent publication of U.S. and Canadian auto sales figures. Follow on Twitter @goodcarbadcar and on Facebook. This article originally appeared on The Truth About Cars Loading, please wait...

BMW Going Ahead with 9 Series to Rival Mercedes-Benz Maybach Posted: BMW is going ahead with plans for a full-size ultra-luxury sedan. German car magazine Auto Bild is reporting that BMW will take the 9 Series to production to compete against the Mercedes-Benz S600 Maybach model. According to the report, the final design of the 9 Series will be close to what we saw with the Vision Future Luxury concept. That includes the thin, sleek headlamps and tail lights, the grand coupe-like roofline, sloping C-pillar, and curt rear end. SEE ALSO: Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 Concept Shows its Face The 9 Series' construction will make liberal use of aluminum and carbon fiber to keep the weight of the beastly sedan as low as possible. Expected under the hood will be a 6.6-liter bi-turbo V12 engine producing upwards of 600 hp. Basically, it will be the same unit that's already been fitted to the M760 Li. A powerful hybrid setup is also a possibility, but it will likely have a higher output than the one found on the 740e. According to Auto Bild, the 9 Series will debut in 2020. [Source: Auto Bild] Loading, please wait...

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Poll: Subaru BRZ Premium or Ford Mustang Fastback V6?

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• Poll: Subaru BRZ Premium or Ford Mustang Fastback V6?
• The Audi RS1 is Yet Another Hot Hatch Not Heading to the US
• Certain Toyota RAV4, Lexus HS250h Models Recalled for the Third Time
• Elio 3-Wheel Car Priced at $7,300, But There’s a Catch
• 2017 BMW X2 Crossover Concept to Debut in Late September
• AutoGuide Answers: What We Love About Our Daily Drivers

Poll: Subaru BRZ Premium or Ford Mustang Fastback V6? Posted: The Subaru BRZ and Ford Mustang are both stylish and sporty coupes but is one of these models a better choice for enthusiasts than the other? YOU DECIDE! Both of these cars feature sporty rear-wheel-drive architectures, offer manual transmissions and are available with just two doors, similarities that make them logical rivals, though there are plenty of differences between them. Starting with the BRZ, it features a 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder engine that's good for up to 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of twist (when equipped with a six-speed stick, that is), and that's it. Only one propulsion unit is offered in this car. Fortunately, thanks to the engine's horizontally opposed configuration this Subaru has a very low center of gravity and overall weight, tipping the scales at less than 2,800 pounds, making it minuscule by 21st century standards. Really, the BRZ is more precision instrument than jackhammer, especially when equipped with the new Performance Package, which adds Brembo brakes and Sachs shock absorbers. Focusing on the Ford, it's quite different from the Subaru. For starters, it offers a multitude of engines, from an EcoBoost four-cylinder to a duet of high-strung V8s to a base V6. And that latter option is what we're focusing on here, the most cost-effective offering (read: cheapest). Aside from being a larger car, the Mustang is also heavier, tipping the scales at around 3,526 pounds with a V6 and manual transmission, some 741 more than the BRZ. But partially offsetting this mass disadvantage is more power. This car is endowed with 300 horses and 280 lb-ft of twist from a 3.7-liter engine. A manual or automatic transmission are offered, both with six forward speeds. As for pricing, out the door this Ford starts at a few bucks less than $25,600. On the other hand, Subaru's offering kicks off at around $26,200, including destination fees. Which of these cars do YOU prefer? Compare them directly right here and please, make sure to vote in our poll! Loading, please wait...

The Audi RS1 is Yet Another Hot Hatch Not Heading to the US Posted: After years of rumors and speculation, the Audi RS1 has reportedly been approved. Sporting 280 horsepower and four-wheel drive, the Audi RS1 will compete with the MINI John Cooper Works models as well as the Ford Fiesta ST. It will also serve as a farewell bow for the current-generation A1, as the next-generation model is expected to arrive by 2018. Given the timing, Autocar reports that the RS1 will go on sale in Europe next year and has reportedly been extensively benchmarked against the MINI JCW. SEE ALSO: 2017 Audi A3 Lineup Gains Fresh Tech Features Expect the Audi RS1 to be powered by the Volkswagen Group's popular EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating around 280 horsepower. That would give it more than 50 additional ponies over the S1 that has 228 hp. Transmission choices will likely include a standard six-speed manual and a newly developed seven-speed dual-clutch unit. Like the S1, the RS1 should be offered in three- and five-door body styles, but don't expect it to be heading to the U.S. anytime soon, considering the A1 isn't sold in North America. Yet again, Audi is offering another high-performance product that only Europeans get to enjoy. [Source: Autocar] Discuss this story on our Audi Forum Loading, please wait...

Certain Toyota RAV4, Lexus HS250h Models Recalled for the Third Time Posted: Toyota is recalling 337,000 vehicles to address an issue with their suspension. This is actually the third recall for the affected vehicles, which include the 2006-2011 Toyota RAV4 and 2010 Lexus HS250h. The cars were first recalled in 2012 because of an issue with their rear suspension being wobbly. The Japanese automaker recalled them again in 2013 because the nuts used to adjust the rear wheel alignment weren't tightened properly. Now, the vehicles are being recalled because Toyota has discovered rust can form on the suspension arm threads if the nuts for the rear wheel alignment weren't tightened properly. SEE ALSO: 2016 Toyota RAV4 SE Review If rust forms, it can become problematic and cause the suspension arm to separate from the vehicle, potentially causing the driver to lose control. The company will contact affected owners and replace both rear suspension arm assemblies free of charge. Discuss this story on our Toyota RAV4 Forum Loading, please wait...

Elio 3-Wheel Car Priced at $7,300, But There’s a Catch Posted: Elio motors might be offering the most affordable car in the U.S. The company has announced official pricing for its three-wheeled vehicle, running a cool $7,300. The announcement was made in an email sent by company founder Paul Elio, which also said that the company has gone public and has planned out the option ordering system for the car. If you are willing to pay for the car in its entirety, it will cost just $7,000 instead of $7,300. But there's a catch. Elio hasn't delivered a single car yet to a customer, and it needs loans to start production. The U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) is willing to offer the company support if they meet certain guidelines. You see, Elio currently has 56,000 reservations, but the DoE isn't content with refundable customer reservations. SEE ALSO: Elio P4 Review So the catch is, you can pay $7,000 outright to purchase an Elio three-wheeled car, but that payment is non-refundable. You also run the risk that the company will go bankrupt before you even get the car, rendering your $7,000 a complete waste. To make matters more complicated, the company doesn't have a production start date or delivery date set, which means even if the car makes it into production, it could be years before you even see it. [Source: Jalopnik] Loading, please wait...

2017 BMW X2 Crossover Concept to Debut in Late September Posted: BMW will preview its next compact crossover at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. The 2017 BMW X2 will debut as a concept, but it is expected to closely resemble the production model. Serving as a sportier version of the X1, the X2 will ride on the German automaker's UKL platform that also underpins the upcoming second-generation MINI Countryman. The new Countryman is also scheduled to debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. Designed to rival the Range Rover Evoque, the 2017 BMW X2 will go on sale in the second half of 2017, targeting buyers that have traditionally opted for a hatchback but wants the versatility and functionality an SUV provides. Essentially, the X2 plays the same role as the X4 and X6 models, "coupe" versions of the X3 and X5, respectively. SEE ALSO: BMW X2 Spied Up Close in Snowy Sweden Spy photographers have caught the BMW X2 testing, looking like a compact SUV with a significantly lower roofline to give it a sportier profile. On the inside, the BMW X2 will share much with the X1, but it will have less storage and headroom due to its low roof. It will also be more expensive than the X1 despite being less practical. Expect powerplants to mirror the BMW X1, which includes a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder offering. [Source: Autocar] Discuss this story on our BMW Forum Loading, please wait...

AutoGuide Answers: What We Love About Our Daily Drivers Posted: Whenever we're not testing new cars or covering the latest auto shows, the team here at AutoGuide.com is stuck commuting in their ho-hum daily drivers, just like normal people! But that doesn't mean the staff is sad to be in their daily drivers; they actually like driving their own cars. Here's why: Dan Ilika, Road Test Editor: Dan describes his Kia Forte5 as an appliance, but a reliable and well-priced one. He seems to be the only one on our team struggling to say the 'L' word when describing his daily driver, but you can tell by the way he talks about his Korean compact hatchback that he has some real affection for the little guy. Jodi Lai, Managing Editor: I love the fact that my steering wheel has no buttons. My 2008 Volkswagen Rabbit has a simple steering wheel, and I love the fact that not one single button can be found on it. It only has one purpose, which is to steer; not change the volume, activate cruise control, find a radio station or make a call. The material is also getting patchy in some places, with little bits fading where I hold the steering wheel the most. I find this comforting because it's not perfect, but it feels like home. Also, have a little disco ball hanging from my rear view mirror that's pretty sweet. Jonathan Yarkony, Editor in Chief: For me it's not a little something, it's the very essence of the car. It's a manual station wagon. I am an automotive enthusiast cliché. I love clichés. I love being a cliché. Oh, and did I mention it's a wagon? With a manual transmission? Sami Haj-Assaad, Features Editor: My daily driver, a 2013 Scion FR-S, has a lot to love. Sure it's a little slow by sports cars standards, and the paint on it is flimsier than whatever Google's social media platform is these days, but it's a blast to drive every single time. It's my palate cleanser. I can get out of a 400-hp test car and back in my Toyobaru and still feel things in it that I just don't feel in modern cars. Specifically, I love the steering of this thing. It's well weighted and provides excellent feedback for an electric power-assisted setup. Oh, and I also love that both windows are automatic up/down, and you can operate them while the car is off like, say, when you park and turn the car off, but then realize you didn't close the window all the way. Craig Cole, Associate Editor: My daily driver is a rattle-trap 2002 Ford Focus ZX3. My favorite thing about this old beater is its simplicity. I hit the lock button and *gasp* the doors lock, there's zero ambiguity. When I push a radio preset button and it changes the station, I stick the key into the ignition and twist it to start the engine; shutdown is the opposite. Everything is so clear-cut and simple with this car, I love it! With modern infotainment systems, you sometimes don't know what does what, ditto for secondary controls. With my old Focus this is not an issue. Oh, and I also love that it's a five-speed… Stephen Elmer, News Editor: There's never enough space for me to cram all my junk in most cars. Unless I'm in my Honda Fit. Up front there are two cupholders, a double glove box and two small cupholder-lookalike storage cubbies that I absolutely crave when I don't have them. Whether it's my wallet, phone or loose change, the amount of at-hand storage in the 2010 Fit is second to none. With so much interior storage and clever use of space, the pint-sized Fit feels like a much larger car than it really is, especially with the Magic Seats. For a guy who is constantly hauling a Sea-Doo, a snowmobile or a drum kit, having all that space goes a long way. Who needs a truck, any way? Jason Siu, News Editor: Despite what others might say, there's plenty to love about the Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG as a daily driver. It's the perfect balance between luxury and sportiness, while having good enough space in the back seats to comfortably seat four. But having grown up in the age of modifying Honda Civics and being completely infatuated with turbocharged four-cylinder engines, it's the powerplant I love the most in the CLA 45 AMG. Like the rest of the car, it's a nice balance between performance and fuel economy and who doesn't like having the world's most powerful four-cylinder engine at their disposal? What's even better is that last year, Mercedes and AMG announced that the CLA45 would get a nice boost in performance to 375 horsepower from 355, and now the German automaker is stepping it up even more, pushing that figure to 400. If there's something that I would love even more is having 400 hp under the hood rather than "just" 355. Sebastien Bell, News Editor at VWVortex I drive around in a 2001 New Beetle, so naturally my favorite thing about it is the OEM flower vase. When I'm not preoccupied by botany, though, my favorite part is definitely the airy cabin. With the sunroof, the big windshield, the enormous side windows, and a large rear window the car is like a greenhouse. Perfect for growing flowers in my OEM flower vase. Loading, please wait...

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Mazda is Celebrating the Millionth Miata With an Epic Road Trip

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• Mazda is Celebrating the Millionth Miata With an Epic Road Trip
• Next Update of Tesla Autopilot Could Make Models Fully Autonomous
• Next-Gen BMW i8 May Arrive in 2023 with 300-Mile Range
• Ford is Improving its FM Radio with Dual Recievers
• McLaren 688HS Makes Early Appearance Online
• Here’s What to Expect at 2016 Monterey Car Week

Mazda is Celebrating the Millionth Miata With an Epic Road Trip Posted: Mazda is bringing its millionth production Miata to the U.S. Earlier this year, the Japanese automaker announced the production of the one-millionth Mazda MX-5 Miata and it will be taking a tour throughout the U.S. with 18 stops total. The first stop will be during the 2016 Monterey Car Week with the milestone Miata showing up at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca from August 18 to August 21. From there, it will head to Quirk Mazda in Boston, Massachusetts on August 25 before stopping at Wayne Mazda in New York, New York on August 27. A day later, the millionth Miata will be at Young Mazda in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Kicking off the month of September, it will then head to Classic Mazda in Cleveland, Ohio on September 2 and the next stop will be a day later in Chicago, Illinois at Autobarn Evanston Mazda. The seventh spot will be Tom Roush Mazda in Indianapolis, Indiana on September 7 and then off it will go to Charlotte, North Carolina the very next day at Mazda of South Charlotte. As the tour heads to the southeast, it will make a stop on September 9 at Mall of Georgia Mazda in Atlanta, Georgia. SEE ALSO: Mazda Produces One-Millionth MX-5 Miata From there, it will then have two stops in Florida, with the first one at Duval Mazda at the Avenues on September 10 in Jacksonville, Florida. The last stop in Florida will be Daytona Mazda in Daytona Beach, Florida on September 17. Visiting the big state of Texas, the Miata will make three stops, first in Houston at Grandsport Speedway on September 23 as part of the MX-5 Experience. A day later it will be in Austin at Roger Beasley Mazda before heading to Dallas, making a stop at Globe Life Stadium. As the tour comes to a close, it will make a stop in Phoenix, Arizona on September 27 at Earnhardt Mazda and then to Los Angeles, California on September 28 at Galpin Mazda. The 18-stop tour will come to an end back where it back on October 1-2 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. "Last year was the 'Year of the Miata' with the launch of the all-new 2016 MX-5, but even a year into the sales of the fourth-generation roadster, that momentum has continued," said Robert Davis, senior VP, U.S. Operations, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). "From winning the 2016 World Car of the Year and World Car Design of the Year, to the introduction of the all-new 2017 MX-5 RF, to our one-millionth Miata milestone, the MX-5 continues to symbolize the innovation and spirit that propels Mazda. With the Millionth Miata Celebration, we're excited to give back to those who, like us, continue to believe that driving matters." [Source: Autocar] Discuss this story on our BMW Forum Loading, please wait...

Next Update of Tesla Autopilot Could Make Models Fully Autonomous Posted: The next-generation Tesla Autopilot will receive upgrades in the hardware department. According to a report from Electrek, Tesla Autopilot 2.0 will feature new hardware that includes a new sensor suite to enable level 3 autonomous driving, and potentially level 4 fully autonomous driving. The new suite will retain the current front-facing radar but will add more around the car, likely one in each corner. It will also add a new front-facing triple camera system, and it is believed that Tesla already started installing new housing to support the camera in production Model S sedans this week. The American automaker has reportedly already written the software to run the currently available features on Autopilot on the new hardware and is now focusing on building on those features and data gathered from the Autopilot 1.0 program. The goal, of course, is to release more advanced autonomous and safety features to Tesla's lineup of vehicles. SEE ALSO: Tesla's Self-Driving Tech 'Will Blow People's Minds' Claims CEO Electrek believes the technology will arrive sooner rather than later, since several components believed to be associated with Tesla Autopilot 2.0 are already being applied to production cars, such as wiring harnesses and the housing for the triple camera system on the rearview mirror cutout. There are, however, other essential components that need to be implemented like a new dedicated computing channel since the current Media Control Unit (MCU) being used for Autopilot 1.0 won't suffice for the next-generation technology. Last week, Tesla CEO Elon Musk made comments saying that the company's self-driving technology "will blow people's minds," and was likely alluding to what he's seen from internal testing of the next-generation Autopilot system. [Source: Electrek] Discuss this story on our Tesla Forum Loading, please wait...

Next-Gen BMW i8 May Arrive in 2023 with 300-Mile Range Posted: BMW is putting a strong focus on its electric cars. The BMW i sub-brand hasn't been as successful as the German automaker had hoped, but the company isn't giving up. It has previously been reported that engineers at BMW are working on the next i car, known internally as iNext. That model is expected to hit dealerships in late 2021 and will either sport the i5 or i6 nameplate. Using an all-electric drivetrain, this new model will also boast BMW's most advanced autonomous technologies yet, while offering a range of electric motors with anywhere from 136 to 247 horsepower. As for the company's current models, replacements for the BMW i3 and i8 are due in 2022. The next-generation BMW i8, however, might not arrive until 2023. Automobile Magazine reports that BMW will equip the new i8 with a trio of electric motors capable of revving to 25,000 rpm, while producing up to 750 hp. With larger and better batteries, the next-generation i8 is aiming for a 300-mile range. Other features expected are all-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, torque vectoring and an active suspension system that scans the road ahead. SEE ALSO: 2016 BMW i8 Review The BMW i3 as we know it could also see some major changes. The company is reportedly looking at three proposals for the next-generation model, one of which would carry on the current car's carbon fiber construction. Another proposal looks at an all-aluminum construction, while the third is a blend of five or six materials. BMW has learned that carbon fiber construction remains expensive, despite the company's focus on mass production in order to reduce costs. As a result, don't be surprised if future BMW i models turned towards aluminum and steel, while using recycled carbon fiber wherever possible. [Source: Automobile] Discuss this story on our BMW Forum Loading, please wait...

Ford is Improving its FM Radio with Dual Recievers Posted: Ford has come up with a new way to get clearer FM radio signal: two receptors.  The system, which will debut on the 2017 Escape and Fusion, uses the rear window heater grid as a second antenna, allowing the vehicle to choose from multiple signals on the same frequency, depending on which is stronger. "With dual antennas, the broadcast transitions seamlessly. No spits or wisps, and no hearing two radio stations at the same time," said Andy Adrian, Ford antenna and reception engineer. "The system delivers the clean, high-quality sound you expect from a Ford vehicle." SEE ALSO: Ford Pickups Get New STX Style Package Ford says this technology should also help with listening to the radio while travelling long distance. The brand offers the example of driving from Chicago to Detroit, where somewhere in the middle the radio stations will become weak when two signals cross over. With Ford's new radio system, the brand claims there will be no interference at all. Discuss this story at our Ford Forum Loading, please wait...

McLaren 688HS Makes Early Appearance Online Posted: McLaren's new top-dog model has made an early appearance online.  Thanks to a post at McLarenLife, we have our first look at the 688 High Sport (HS), a car that will succeed the now-retired P1 as the fastest car in the British automaker's lineup. The new 688 is based on the 675, though power will be boosted up to 688 PS (678 horsepower) from the same twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8. SEE ALSO: McLaren 570GT Makes US Debut Next Week As can be seen in the image, the biggest changes to the car are aerodynamic enhancements including carbon fiber front canards, air extractors on the front wheels and a large roof scoop. A large fixed wing is also expected to be fitted out back, though it is cut off in this photo. The 688 has been specially commissioned from McLaren Special Operations (MSO), the brand's bespoke outfit. Just 25 units of the 688 will be built in total, all of which are already spoken for. The car is expected to make its full debut next week at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Check back to AutoGuide.com for live coverage from the event. [Source: McLaren Life] Discuss this story at our Luxury Lifestyle Forum Loading, please wait...

Here’s What to Expect at 2016 Monterey Car Week Posted: For luxury and exotic car enthusiasts, Monterey Car Week is the ultimate event. This year's festivities will start on August 15 and end on August 21, and there will be no shortage of events to showcase some of  the world's finest automobiles. Highlights from the 2016 Monterey Car Week include The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering on August 19, Concorso Italiano on August 20 and, of course, the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance on August 21. 2016 Monterey Car Week Coverage AutoGuide.com will be reporting live from the 2016 Monterey Car Week to bring you coverage of all the exciting debuts. But until then, here are some of the more exciting things we are anticipating to see. Elvis Presley's BMW 507 BMW has already shown off its completed restoration of Elvis Presley's BMW 507, and the classic roadster will make its public debut at the 2016 Concours d'Elegance at Pebble Beach. The beautifully restored classic is chassis number 70079 and it will be shown exactly as it was when soldier Elvis Presley took delivery on December 20, 1958. Under the hood is a 3.2-liter V8 that was restored completely from spare parts, and even the Feather White exterior paint was applied with the same methods used some 60 years ago. Bugatti Chiron and Vision Gran Turismo For the first time ever, both the Bugatti Chiron and Vision Gran Turismo Concept will be attending the same event. The Chiron will make an appearance first on Friday, August 19 at The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering before it heads to the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance on Sunday. There, it will be joined by the Vision Gran Turismo Concept, presumably before it heads to its new owner in Saudi Arabia. That's right, a Saudi Prince has purchased the Vision Gran Turismo Concept from Bugatti along with the Chiron show car used at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. It's unclear which Bugatti Chiron will be shown off at this year's Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, but here's to hoping it will be a different shade than what was presented in Geneva. 1962 Shelby 260 Cobra CSX 2000 Auction It's probably a long shot, but a particular 1962 Shelby 206 Cobra could become the most expensive car to ever be sold at an auction. That's because it is the Shelby 206 Cobra sporting serial number CSX 2000, which was the very first-ever Shelby Cobra ever produced. When Shelby first built the Cobra and started loaning it out to the media for testing purposes, he wanted to leave the impression that more than one was produced. So CSX 2000 was actually repainted a different color so that it appeared Shelby had an entire fleet of test cars. Some would say that this is the most important car in American history and we shall see on August 19 when it crosses the auction block if bidders agree. It does have a huge task ahead of it, however, considering the most expensive car ever sold at an auction currently is a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO that went for $34.65-million in 2014. Lamborghini Huracan Superleggera It would be a surprise if Lamborghini didn't have anything to debut at the 2016 Monterey Car Week, considering how prestigious the event is. Although the Italian automaker hasn't so much as teased what it will be bringing, we believe it will be the Huracan Superleggera that spy photographers have caught testing at the Nurburgring. After all, the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance was where Lamborghini debuted the Aventador SV Roadster last year, so we do expect something from the company. If Lamborghini however, does choose to disappoint by not bringing the Huracan Superleggera to Pebble Beach, expect it to bow at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. Cadillac Concept More of a hunch than anything, we believe Cadillac will be heading to the 2016 Monterey Car Week to show off a new concept car. The company has always had a presence at both The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering and the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, and it's about time that the American automaker showed off something new and exciting. While the brand did make a statement last year, it didn't have a major debut or reveal. We feel like that will change this year considering the Pebble Beach is where Cadillac introduced the Elmiraj concept to the world in 2013. Genesis Concept Last year, Hyundai had a pleasant surprise during the Monterey Car Week with the debut of the Vision G Coupe concept. Hyundai isn't typically a brand associated to the Monterey Car Week, but now that the Genesis luxury sub-brand exists, we expect the Korean automaker to make a bigger statement this year. In May, a roadmap leaked that showed the future plans for the Genesis brand, which includes a smaller G70 luxury sedan, a pair of SUVs and a sporty coupe. Whether Genesis follows up on the Vision G Coupe concept or an SUV concept debuts remains to be unseen, but Hyundai should have a presence in Monterey if it wants to be taken seriously in the luxury market. Mercedes-Maybach Coupe Concept It hasn't been confirmed that it will debut at Pebble Beach, but Mercedes-Maybach released the above teaser and based on the timing and the prestige of Monterey Car Week, we would be surprised if it wasn't revealed next week. Not much is known about the coupe concept, but Mercedes did say it will be almost 20-feet long and it will likely preview a future model for the ultra-luxury brand. Currently, the Maybach nameplate is only used for a long-wheelbase S-Class variant, so it will be exciting to see Mercedes-Maybach tackle an all-new model to take on the likes of Rolls-Royce. McLaren 570GT U.S. Debut / McLaren Special Operations Project Debut McLaren has announced that the 570GT will make its U.S. debut at the 2016 Monterey Car Week, and will also bring its race car variant the 570S GT4 along for the ride. But the most exciting news from McLaren is that the British automaker has promised the debut of a project from McLaren Special Operations, and based on the company's previous debuts, it should be exciting. Loading, please wait...

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Ram Recalls Heavy Duty Pickups Over Transfer Case Issues

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• Ram Recalls Heavy Duty Pickups Over Transfer Case Issues
• Fisker Karma Reborn as Karma Revero
• Watch the Tesla Model S P90D Run the Quarter Mile in 10.8 Seconds
• Audi Plans Suspension that Produces Energy to Help Save Gas
• Should You Replace or Fix a Cracked Windshield?
• Brighter Colors Boost a Car’s Resale Value: Study

Ram Recalls Heavy Duty Pickups Over Transfer Case Issues Posted: Ram is bringing back a number of its heavy duty pickup trucks over transfer case output shaft fractures.  The 2016 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 are all affected by the recall, with 889 units involved in total. The issue is the output shaft from the transfer case can fracture. The supplier of the shaft has since investigated and changed it process to make sure this doesn't happen. Ram first had a customer report the issue in October of 2016, while two further customers experienced the fracture in April of 2016. All of the affected trucks will be outfitted with a brand new transfer case that was made using the new process. Discuss this story at our Ram Forum Loading, please wait...

Fisker Karma Reborn as Karma Revero Posted: The new Revero from Karma Automotive, formerly known as Fisker Automotive, has been fully revealed.  While it is being touted as a new car, the Revero is in reality a refreshed version of the Fisker Karma, launched back in 2011. Karma Automotive was created from the ashes of bankrupt Fisker when the company was sold to China's Wanxiang Group. SEE ALSO: Fisker Karma Renamed to Karma Revero, Production Moving to US Updates to the car include an improved solar roof for collecting energy, an all-new infotainment system and a set of hand-painted badges. Karma didn't reveal all of the details, though a count down on its website suggests that the car will be fully unveiled on September 8. That is also the date that reservations will open up to the public, though current Fisker owners can reserve one now. The car will be built in Southern California, a long ways from Finland where the original Fisker Karma was built. Production targets have not been announced, but the car will likely be produced in low quantities for now. Discuss this story at our Luxury Lifestlye Forum  Loading, please wait...

Watch the Tesla Model S P90D Run the Quarter Mile in 10.8 Seconds Posted: Get the Flash Player to see this player. Tesla's new option, Ludicrous mode, helps deliver a quarter-mile drag time that beats some of the top supercars around.  A 20 year-old Tesla Model S P90D owner took to the Rockingham Dragstrip to prove the electric car's mettle and registered a quarter-mile time of 10.8 seconds in a production version of the car. That drag time beats such models as the Corvette Z06 or the Pagani Huyara. The maximum acceleration on the Model S P90D also produces a G-force of 1.1G. Tesla offers Ludicrous mode on the current Model S P90D, which tops out at 762 hp to the P85D's 691 hp, for $10,000. The car featured in the video here was fitted with that option, although, no other alterations were made to the vehicle according to the driver. SEE ALSO: Couple Takes Tesla Model S and Model X Drag Racing On the car's first quarter-mile run, as you'll see in the video, the car registered a time of 10.839 seconds. The Model S P90D's best time was 10.80 seconds. Watch the video above for all the action. [Source: Carscoops] Loading, please wait...

Audi Plans Suspension that Produces Energy to Help Save Gas Posted: Audi is working on a new suspension system which can produce energy that can be put to good use within the car.  Audi calls its prototype eROT, which is a set of electromechanical rotary dampers that are able to use potholes, bumps and curves to produce energy for the 48-volt electrical system. It works by using a lever arm that absorbs the motion of the wheel carrier, converting it into energy. Audi says that during testing, its prototype regained 3 watts on a freshly paved highway and 613 watts on a rough secondary road. SEE ALSO: Next-Gen 2018 Audi A7 Spied for the First Time Besides being able to generate electricity, the dampers are actively controlled, which means that they should provide an even better ride. A revised geometry also helps with packaging the cars, allowing more luggage space to be added thanks to the horizontally arranged electric motors in the rear axle. To work, the vehicle needs a 48-volt electrical system, which is a system that Audi is moving towards in all of its vehicles. The brand says that a new prototype that is in the works for 2017 will be able to feed a "high-performance mild hybrid drive," offering the potential to save up to 0.7 l/100km in fuel economy.

Should You Replace or Fix a Cracked Windshield? Posted: We've all been driving along, minding our own business when a rock the size of a melon comes flying like a targeted asteroid and smacks right into your windshield, leaving a chip or crack in your car's visor and ruining your day. In reality, that rock probably wasn't all that big, but driving at speed certainly makes the scene more dramatic. What's not to be taken lightly is that mark on your windshield. Cracks and chips in your window may not seem like a big deal, but they impact your visibility and are a safety hazard. If you're left with a serious imperfection on your windshield, it may be tempting to just ignore it or look around it to save time and money, but leaving the crack or chip and driving around with it is not an option. "Cracks and chips often grow longer or wider if not repaired or replaced," explains Debra Levy, president of the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC). Not only that, but it's also unsafe. "The [cracked] glass may be compromised and the windshield is part of the safety system of the vehicle," she explains. Can it be fixed? There are two main solutions to dealing with a broken windshield. You can either fill a crack if it's small enough, or you can replace the whole windshield. The latter is the more expensive option, while the former is for smaller imperfections. It's like dealing with serious body damage or chipped paint, but your windshield is much more important in terms of your safety than your car's paint is. "Whether or not a break can be repaired, rather than replacing the glass, depends on a number of factors including type of break, location of break and amount of time the glass has been broken," Levy says. But what's important is that it gets fixed soon, as Levy explained that cracks and chips can grow longer or wider if not repaired or replaced. The decision to repair a crack or chip can be easy to make depending on the size of it. "The Repair of Laminated Auto Glass Standard allows repair of cracks 14 inches or less," she explains, so cracks that are larger than that will need a complete replacement of glass. Obviously, the ability to repair such big cracks or chips is dependent on the skills of the auto glass technician you're using. Most one or two inch chips are commonly dealt with, but again, it depends on what your tech says is possible. "Certain insurers also limit the length of damage they will pay for." That should help the decision. Some quick research shows that certain types of cracks and chips just can't be repaired. For example, if the damage extends from the exterior pane of glass and penetrates the interior, it's too deep to be repaired. Chips on corners or tight spots are often too difficult to repair too, so count those out. If a chip or crack has spread after the initial damage, that's a clear sign the glass needs to be replaced. Also take into consideration things like temperature sensors, radio antennaes and other high-tech goodies that can be embedded into your windshield that can affect whether the glass can be repaired and increase the cost of a replacement. What's involved with fixing or replacing a windshield? A crack or chip repair takes about 30 to 40 minutes and is performed by injecting a clear resin into it. When it hardens, the resin helps restore the integrity and smooth look of the glass. The resin is then polished and cured by UV light. If done properly, the chip or crack won't be able to spread any further. Replacing a glass is a bit more of an involved process. After prepping the body of the car to prevent any damage, technicians will remove the windshield from the car. The seals and adhesives are also removed, and a primer is used on the bare frame, so a new glue and sealant can applied for the replacement glass. The new windshield is then fitted and bonded to the car. After the glass is fitted, most auto shops encourage a 60-minute wait time so that the windshield is properly attached to the car. Trust Like dealing with an independent mechanic, one of the biggest worries with autoglass repair is having a trustworthy technician. Fortunately, the ASGC has a website where you can find certified and qualified technicians in your area. "[To] choose a company that does the work properly, just go to the AGSC site safewindshields.org and put in your ZIP code." says Levy. A handy search tool, these companies should be able to help you feel satisfied with your decision to fix or replace your windshield, and understand the importance of doing so. Loading, please wait...

Brighter Colors Boost a Car’s Resale Value: Study Posted: A recent study shows that the color of your car has an impact on its resale value. Some car shoppers tend to stick with neutral shades like white or black when purchasing a car, believing it will be easier to sell in the future. Part of that is true, but a recent study conducted by iSeeCars.com has some surprising results. When it comes to a car's resale value, the brighter and more unusual shades like orange and yellow actually hold their value better. And before you think that's because orange and yellow are typically reserved for luxury and exotic vehicles, the two shades had the least depreciation across virtually all body styles and market segments. The average depreciation for a car over three years, according to the study, is 29.8 percent, while yellow cars depreciate 22 percent over the same period. Orange cars depreciate the least at 21.6 percent. Coming in third on the list is green at 24.5 percent and rounding out the top five is brown in fourth at 28.5 percent and red in fifth at 29.1 percent. SEE ALSO: Men Prefer Bright Car Colors While Women Stick with Neutrals Neutral colors like grey (29.5 percent), white (29.5 percent), blue (29.9 percent) and black (30.2 percent) are close to the average of 29.8 percent while silver (30.6 percent), beige (31.2 percent) and gold (33.5 percent) depreciate the most. It is worth noting that one of the contributing factors to the rarer color's higher resale values is scarcity, making up just 1.5 percent of all vehicles. "Cars in orange, yellow, and to a lesser extent, green, are primarily sports cars and muscle cars," said Phong Ly, CEO of iSeeCars.com. "Not only do these colors appeal to many of the buyers in these segments, but these cars are driven less, most likely because they are not used as daily drivers. For example, the average mileage of three-year- old orange sports cars is just 27,210 miles, and 26,822 miles for muscle cars, compared to 36,324 miles on average for all cars." Loading, please wait...

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