It first made news in Japan, but the more powerful 2019 Miata is destined to hit the U.S. market as well.
We would have been terribly dismayed if Mazda’s news of a more powerful Miata didn’t make it across the Pacific to the U.S. The 2019 Miata will indeed see a power bump in the U.S. for the next model year as well, courtesy of a new dual-mass flywheel, reduced exhaust losses and internal friction within the engine. The upshot? Mazda bumped the power in the 2019 Miata from 155 in the current iteration to 181 – a 17-percent increase. Engineers also gave the new Miata a higher redline – up to 7,500 rpm from 6,800 in the current model. Torque is up as well, from 148 lb-ft to 151 lb-ft.
The 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be available with a brown top, if that’s your thing. [Photo: Mazda]Power isn’t the only place Mazda has updated the 2019 Miata either. The roadster will be available with a brown canvas top, new 17-inch wheels, and – finally – a telescoping steering wheel. That ought to help out with taller or shorter drivers by making the driving experience a bit more comfortable. The 2019 Miata will also come standard with a rearview camera, as required by government mandate, Traffic Sign Recognition and Smart City Brake Support, which works up to about 20 mph.
A gram here, a gram there
Despite the extra equipment and tweaks to the powertrain, the new Miata only gains seven pounds over the current model. Mazda has long employed a “gram strategy” when it comes to designing the Miata. In essence, if engineers need to add any weight, they have to take it away from somewhere else. In the end, we end up getting a more powerful, rear-wheel drive roadster that’s still available with a six-speed manual transmission. That’s what car enthusiasts – particularly fans of the Miata – would call a win-win.
The 2019 Miata will go on sale this fall. Mazda hasn’t announced pricing information yet, but we don’t suspect the new Miata will cost much more than the current model, if it sees a price hike at all. Stay tuned to TFLcar and TFLnow for more news, views and real-world reviews!
It’s still cheaper than buying a $65 million Gulfstream private jet.
As far as private jets are concerned, you would think there aren’t too many choices out there. After all, a jet is a jet, and we can’t all go around snapping up private planes at every corner. However, that isn’t quite the case. There are a fair range of options out there, ranging all the way up to the $65 million Gulfstream G650 private jet and even beyond. If that’s a bit too rich for your blood, there are still cheaper options. Something like this: the HA-420 HondaJet.
Bringing it back to cars for a moment, what do you think when you hear about Honda? Something affordable, nice to drive, practical, reliable, and so on, right? It turns out Honda manufactures aircraft as well. Honda Aircraft Company – a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Company founded in 2006 – manufactures this $5.2 million HA-420 HondaJet. So this, in a manner of speaking, is the most expensive Honda you can buy. That said, it’s still several degrees of magnitude cheaper than some of the private jets that may immediately spring to mind.
The HA-420 HondaJet is 43 feet long and 15 feet high, with a wingspan of about 40 feet. It uses two turbofan engines jointly developed by GE and Honda Aero, Inc., another Honda subsidiary. Each engine produces 2,050 pounds of thrust, allowing the HondaJet to reach a maximum speed of around 420 knots, or 483 miles per hour. The plane seats four to six passengers as well as one or two pilots, and can fly for a total range of about 1,200 nautical miles. The HA-420 HondaJet was developed in Japan, but its manufactured in Greensboro, North Carolina.
Check out the HondaJet in action in the video above! Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow for more news, views, and light business jet reviews.
By all accounts, Polestar 1 – the first model from Volvo’s spinoff company – should be pretty quick.
By now, we already knew that the Polestar 1 was shaping up to be a pretty remarkable car, at least on paper. A performance hybrid with 600 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque (1,000 newton-meters), you likely won’t be wanting for power. However, today we learned that the car will also be a lot lighter than we initially inspected, as its clad in carbon fiber.
Thanks to extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), the Polestar 1 sheds 230 kilograms off its curb weight, or 507 pounds. To put that in perspective, that’s like throwing two burly adult men out of the car, permanently. The hood, trunk, side panels, roof and doors are all constructed from CFRP. As a result, the upshot is that the Polestar One should deliver even better performance. For those who weren’t already aware, the Polestar One makes its power from a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged engine mated to electric motors.
[Photo: Polestar]Christian Samson, the company’s Head of Product Creation, touts the benefits of carbon fiber: “When you combine this strengthened framework with the super-strong body and roof structure, you get a stiff and communicative chassis which translates driver input into superb driving characteristics.” Carbon fiber is thinner and lighter than steel, which does help the car’s overall weight and center of gravity. It’s unclear, at this point, whether Polestar’s all-electric models – due out in the next two years – will also use carbon fiber.
Polestar hasn’t released exact performance figures beyond power just yet. Stay tuned to TFLcar.com for more updates! Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow for more news, views and real-world reviews.
Ford recently purchased Michigan Central station for renovation into a new campus. The quote means “We hope for better things; It will rise from the ashes”. [Photo: Ford]
Local figures and members of the public celebrate Ford’s purchase of the long-shuttered Michigan Central Station
Detroit has long lied at the heart of America’s automotive industry. Not for nothing, as the Big Three – Ford, Fiat-Chrysler and General Motors – all call the Motor City home. The city saw a golden age thanks to the automobile, but it’s also seen its fair share of hardships. One of the largest symbols of those hardships was the closure of Michigan Central Station in 1988. Over the past thirty years, the 114-year-old structure underwent years of decay as well as restoration efforts, the latter of which have taken place in the last decade. However, no negotiations to restore the building came to fruition, until now. As of this month, Ford Motor Company purchased Michigan Central Station from the Monroun family, who previously owned the building since 1996.
Michigan Central Station in 2010, with “Save the Depot” lettering in the windows. [Photo: Wikimedia Commons]Today, Ford celebrated the occasion with an event in front of the station. Governor Rick Snyder, Detroit mayor Mike Duggan and Ford executives, including Executive Chairman Bill Ford and CEO Jim Hackett heralded the purchase as an investment in Ford and Detroit’s future. Residents of Corktown, the neighborhood where Michigan Central Station is located, and other Ford employees, city and state officials also attended the event. “Michigan Central Station is a place that in many ways tells the story of Detroit over the past century,” Ford said. “We at Ford want to help write the next chapter, working together…to shape the future of mobility and transportation.”
Ford will renovate Michigan Central station to include work space, retail and residential housing by 2022. [Photo: Ford]
Ford’s plans
So what does Ford plan to do with the historic building? By 2022, the company will move approximately 2,500 employees into three-quarters of the 1.2 million square feet of space. The other 300,000 square feet will comprise community and retail space, as well as residential housing.
In an effort to preserve the past and plan for the future, Ford will use its Corktown campus, which includes Michigan Central Station as well as the former Detroit Public Schools Book Depository, two acres of vacant land and two former factories, to house its electric vehicle and autonomous business teams. Jim Hackett stated, “[Corktown] will be a proving ground where Ford and our partners design and test the services and solutions for the way people are going to live and get around tomorrow, creating a Southeast Michigan mobility corridor that spans west from Dearborn to Ann Arbor, and east to Detroit.”
Stay tuned to TFLcar.com for more updates! Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow for more news, views and real-world reviews.
According to a recent survey, we may see a sedan resurgence thanks to rising gas prices and interest rates.
Over the past few years, cheaper gas prices and easy financing have driven crossover and SUV sales through the roof. It’s turned the once-popular sedan market on its head, to the point where the segment has dwindled since 2014. However, as average gas prices near $3.00 per gallon once again, some customers are thinking twice about taking the plunge with trucks.
In fact, a recent May 2018 Autolistsurvey of 1,192 car shoppers concluded a significant portion would buy a sedan over a light truck. That’s if financing costs and gas prices continued to rise. The Fed recently hiked interest rates, which makes high-dollar purchases like trucks and larger SUVs more expensive. Not only that, but gas prices are up 30 percent from last year in California, the largest automotive market in the U.S. So what could that actually mean in the long run?
Autolist conducted a survey that found shoppers would consider buying a sedan if gas prices and financing costs continued to rise. [Photo: Autolist]
History may repeat itself
A decade ago, during the financial crisis, U.S. average gas prices topped $4.00 per gallon, a huge leap over prices in years prior. Up until that point, consumers drove large SUVs and trucks. However, when it costs $150 to fill up a Chevrolet Suburban, suddenly people don’t want to drive them anymore. The market shifted and smaller cars – namely sedans – enjoyed a resurgence. The data above suggests that trend may occur again in the near future.
Forty-nine percent of respondents in the Autolist survey stated they would buy a sedan over a truck if gas prices topped $4.00 per gallon. Fourteen percent said they would consider a smaller truck than what they were previously considering. Forty-five percent also stated they would buy a sedan over a truck if financing costs rose. Interestingly, twenty-five percent said they would still buy a truck even if gas prices and interest rates continue to rise.
Some consumers would still purchase light trucks, even if gas prices continue to rise. [Photo: Chevrolet]In the short term, higher prices could be a boon to sedan sales. That could be problematic for some automakers, as those like Ford and Fiat-Chrysler are drastically shifting their focus away from sedans toward trucks and SUVs. The survey also noted that the sedan market could still be in trouble as small SUVs and crossovers are available at more price points. Sedans previously had an edge on price, but as that gap shrinks, their days could still be numbered.
What do you think? Let us know in the comments below! Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow for more news, views and real-world reviews.
2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback. [Photo: Toyota]Back in 2016, when the Scion brand was dealt a death blow, the Scion iM hatchback was rebadged as the Toyota Corolla iM. Now, for the 2019 model year, a totally new Toyota Corolla Hatchback rolls onto the market with vast improvements in technological development, performance attributes and especially in its emotionally stirring styling.
This newest iteration Toyota Corolla Hatchback is not simply another rebadge. Toyota has redesigned the model from the ground up, based on an entirely new chassis with a more efficient powertrain. Not content to stop there, the new Corolla Hatchback also comes with an enhanced suite of safety-oriented technology.
WHAT’S NEW
The new Toyota Corolla Hatchback is based on Toyota’s new “TNGA” global platform. It’s lower, wider and longer than the previous model Corolla iM. Despite its increased size, its also 60-percent stiffer than the outgoing model. Ultimately, the stiffer chassis updated suspension provide a more solid ride. The lighter components Toyota uses in the Corolla Hatchback’s construction, such as the resin composite rear hatchback door, contribute to keeping the curb weight down to just 3,060 pounds. A lighter weight also returns EPA-estimated fuel economy ranging from 30 mpg city to 38 mpg highway.
In terms of its visual appeal, the 2019 Corolla Hatchback displays an indomitable style. It features a design form that is distinctive and dynamic, yet more sophisticated and refined than the previous generation. The new design comprises a blend of lines and creases showcasing athletic traits. The Toyota Corolla Hatchback’s hood sits two inches lower than before, affording passengers better forward visibility. Wheel sizes range from 16-inches to 18-inches with unique designs.
There are two trim grades in the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback. There’s the base model SE, then the XSE that provides distinct visual differences.
The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback supports Apple CarPlay, but not Android Auto. [Photo: Toyota]
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
Moving into the cabin of the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback, there is a simple, yet inviting warmth. A standard high-resolution 8.o-inch multimedia touchscreen resides at the center of the instrument panel, providing access to vehicle settings, navigation and Entune 3.0 apps. Climate controls, located below the multimedia portal, are fashioned in a highly visible digitized configuration. The latest generation of Entune features 4G LTE connectivity, including remote access and monitoring via Toyota’s phone and smartwatch applications. Apple CarPlay is standard for the new generation of Entune, but the system does not support Android Auto at time of writing.
Not only does the Toyota Corolla Hatchback sport an athletic appearance, but it also possesses a wealth of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. The upgraded system includes improvements to automatic emergency braking and is now capable of totally stopping the car at speeds below roughly 37 mph, aiding in collision prevention. Toyota also added cyclist detection to the system, along with low-light pedestrian detection, which enhances nighttime safety. Drivers also have the option of adding blind-spot monitoring to CVT models.
While the Toyota Corolla Hatchback comes with a CVT, it also offers a six-speed manual transmission. [Photo: Toyota]
PERFORMANCE
Propelling the new Toyota Corolla Hatchback is Toyota’s Dynamic Force 2.0-liter engine. A plethora of updates mean the engine cranks out 168 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. That’s an increase of 31 horsepower and 25 lb-ft of torque over the Corolla iM that it replaces. Motive force reaches the front wheels via a new Dynamic Shift CVT with a physical first launch gear to help eliminate the ubiquitous rubber-banding effect. For enthusiasts, a six-speed manual gearbox is also available. The manual transmission integrates software that provides rev-matching for downshifts, as well as smoother upshifts, hill start assist and stall suppression. Drivers can activate these features by switching on the “iMT” mode. Unfortunately for some, the assist software is disabled by default when the ignition is switched off.
When the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is equipped with the CVT, it also features standard full-speed adaptive cruise control that can bring the car to a complete stop if traffic ahead slows down. With the manual gearbox, there’s still adaptive cruise control, but it can only be activated above 25 mph. It will also disengage when the car’s drops below 15 mph, to prevent it stalling. CVT models also feature standard Lane Tracing Assist that utilizes cameras to detect lane makers.
[Photo: Toyota]
TFLCAR’S TAKE
All in all, the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is a great looking hatch. It’s also available at a bargain price, considering its healthy array of technological features. Yes, there are hatches out there that deliver a higher level of performance. However, the new Toyota Corolla Hatchback represents a considerable improvement in both handling characteristics and stability than before. In any case, it’s a hoot to drive in a spirited fashion. As time goes on, TRD will certainly develop some aftermarket “go-faster” goodies for those who want some more grunt and character from their hatch.
My test 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback was in XSE trim with the CVT transmission. The exterior was sprayed a bright, bold Blue with interior done in Black. The base price for the Corolla XSE hatchback starts around $24,000, included destination charges. The as-tested price came out to $25,010. Check out more of the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback below. Subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow for more news, views and real-world reviews!
SPECIFICATIONS: 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback XSE
On Sale:
Now
Base MSRP:
$22,990 (excl. $920 destination charge)
Price as Tested:
$25,010
Engine:
2.0-liter DOHC, 16-valve Dynamic Force 4-cylinder with Toyota electronic Direct /Port Injection with Dual VVT-i
Drivetrain (Layout):
Transversely mounted front engine, front-wheel drive
Horsepower:
168 hp @ 6,600 rpm
Torque:
151 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
Transmission:
Dynamic Shift CVT w/ launch gear and paddle shifters
Suspension:
Front: Independent MacPherson strut with stabilizer bar
It’s one of the most popular cars in automotive history – the Volkswagen Beetle.
Few cars have a history as long-standing, diverse, and perhaps dubious history as the original Volkswagen – the “people’s car”. Of course, you and I know it as the Beetle, a rear-engined, air-cooled car built from 1938 to 2003. The need for a “people’s car” was calculated by Adolf Hitler – hence its dubious distinction as one of the most popular cars in history. He wanted a simple, cheap car to mobilize his people along the newly built German Autobahn road network. It had to carry two adults in the front and three children in the back at 100 km/h while using no more than 7 liters/100km. In other words, it had to be able to cruise at 62 mph and manage roughly 32 mpg all day long with no issues.
At the time, it was a tall order, and one that fell, in part, on the back of Ferdinand Porsche. He was the lead engineer on the project until 1938. What resulted was the first Volkswagen, and one of the most well-sold cars of all time. Over its 65-year run, Volkswagen produced 21,529,464 Beetles – the longest-running, most-produced passenger car in history. The design layout also went on to be the foundation of Porsche’s eponymous 911 range, as well as the prototypes that preceded it. What was the Volkswagen Beetle’s most popular year? 1971, when Volkswagen produced 1.3 million units.
TFL’s new long-term 1971 Volkswagen Super Beetle. [Photo: TFLcar]
Taking a Super Beetle on the Ike Gauntlet?
Welcome to the Beetle Diaries, a new video series! We’re actually taking TFL’s newly-purchased 1971 Volkswagen Super Beetle on every challenge we have. That means it will at least attempt to take on Gold Mine Hill, it will run an MPG loop and the Ike Gauntlet. No small task for a 47-year-old car, especially as the Beetle isn’t the most powerful car imaginable. Nevertheless, throughout the series we’ll see just how well the original design vision for the Volkswagen has been realized.
Stay tuned to TFLcar.com as we document our adventures with “Felix”, our long-term Super Beetle. Watch the video above to find out more about the car, and subscribe to The Fast Lane Car and TFLnow for more news, views and real-world reviews!
[Photo: Jeep]This summer was an incredible year for fans of the large, luxury SUV. Cheap gas and a long list of choices for luxurious people haulers made for some awesome testing here at TFL. We were all excited to hear that Jeep is bringing back the Grand Wagoneer, but now it seems dealerships are worried that Marchionne’s SUV has missed its golden opportunity for sales. Marchionne originally planned to have the Grand Wagoneer come out in 2013. Several identity crises later and we still haven’t seen the Grand Wagoneer come to fruition.
Why has it taken so long?
It’s hard to understand, on the surface, exactly what caused so many delays in the production of Jeep’s competitor to the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Suburban. After hearing FCA’s five-year plan recently, it seems that the Italian auto group may have been pouring lots of money into Alfa Romeo in stead. FCA also had their own internal debate about what the Grand Wagoneer should actually be. It could be body-on-frame, to compete directly with the Suburban, or be a unibody to fight the Range Rover. Furthermore, FCA has had a hard time keeping up with production on their existing models, specifically RAM trucks. Adding another vehicle to that mix could slow things even further if done improperly.
Why sales will struggle, according to dealers
Dealers are especially worried now with the latest rises in gas prices. In fact, prices have risen 31-percent, on average, over the last year, according to AAA. While automakers will continue to find ways to improve efficiency in large SUVs, they still suck fuel like nothing else available. Plus, interest rates seem to be on the rise as well, which means a lot of extra money spent on an expensive SUV.
The Grand Wagoneer should still sell, but perhaps not nearly as well as it might have in 2013, when we originally expected to see it.
For more news on the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, be sure to stay tuned to TFLcar.com! Also keep your eye on TFLcar and TFLnow on YouTube for all of our latest news, views and real-world video reviews.
Will the real Dart buyers please stand up? Yes, *buyers*, because apparently six of you managed to find brand-new examples kicking around in the last quarter.
![[Photo: Polestar]](https://tflstudios.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Polestar1_017-e1508273598923.jpg)
