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2017 Mini Cooper Countryman vs Cooper S Countryman Mashup Review

By
Roman Mica
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The 2017 Mini Cooper Countryman has grown and buffed up. The newest Mini is just over 8 inches longer and a little bit over an inch wider than the previous model. It’s about the same size as a VW Golf and it loosely shares a platform with the BMW X1.

Like the BMW X1, the 2017 Mini Cooper Countryman is turbocharged with either a 3 or a 4 cylinder twin scroll turbo engine.

Recently I had the chance to drive both the All4 (that’s Mini speak for all-wheel-drive) 2017 Mini Cooper Countryman and Mini Cooper S Countryman in the snow just outside of Portland, Oregon.  Mini is one of the few automotive manufacturers that still offers a manual transmission in all of their cars so I naturally chose the 6-speed manual over the 8-speed automatic.

Mini puts the 8 inches of extra length to good use making the new 2017 Mini Cooper Countryman much more comfortable for taller drivers like myself. There’s even plenty of shoulder room and sufficient leg room for rear seat passengers.  Of course many may argue that a much bigger Mini is no longer a Mini at all, but more of a mainstream compact crossover. Mini says the car is still much smaller than the British competition like the Range Rover Evoque.

I had the chance to drive the Cooper and Cooper back to back. In the video review below and you can get to know both cars up close and personal. Which would I buy if it were my money? You’ll have to watch this classic TFLcar Mashup review below to find out.

 

2018 Lexus LC 500 and Lexus LC 500h Test Drive – Which Luxury Coupe is Best For You?

By
Arv Voss
-

Lexus-LC-500-RSF-S

Kona, Hawaii – If you happened to be a fan of the expensive limited production Lexus LFA supercar, then you’re going to love the new 2018 Lexus LC 500 series International Grand Touring Sport Coupes, which are based on the LF-LC concept car. There will be two versions – the LC 500 powered by a V8 engine, and the LC 500h, a V6 powered Hybrid, and both are based on a new GA-L platform architecture. The base MSRP for the Lexus LC 500 is $92,000., while the sticker for the Lexus LC 500h starts at $96,510. Destination and handling for each is $995. Okay, that’s still expensive, but certainly more reasonable than the going rate for the LFA.
Lexus-LC-500-Eng-R
Propulsion for the Lexus LC 500 is drawn from a 5.0-liter, DOHC, 32-valve, normally aspirated, Dual VVT-I and EFI/D-4S longitudinally front mounted V8 engine that generates 471 horsepower at 7,100 rpm while also developing 396 pound feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. EPA mileage estimates are 16-mpg city/ 26-mpg highway and 19 mpg combined.
Lexus-LC-500h-Eng
Powering the Lexus LC 500h is a Series/parallel system with gas engine and electric Motors. The gas engine is a 3.5-liter, DOHC, 24-valve V6 with VVT-iW, EFI and D- 4S – also longitudinally mounted up front, that produces 295 horses at 6,500 rpm along with 256.7 pound feet of torque at 4,900 rpm. The electric power comes from two Water-cooled Permanent magnet synchronous motors: MG-1- functions as Primary generator, engine starter and controls engine speed; MG-2 – Drives the rear wheels and provides regenerative braking.
Total system power – 354 horsepower. Electricity is generated by an 84 cell Lithium Battery Pack – 310.8 V nominal voltage / 650 V System voltage. LC 500h EPA mileage estimates are 26-mpg city / 35-mpg highway and 30 mpg combined.

The transmission for the LC500 is a Ten-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic with steering wheel mounted magnesium paddle shifters and manual mode. The LC500h gears energy to the driving wheels via a Multi Stage Hybrid Transmission (another name for CVT). There is a Torsen® high-capacity, torque-sensing Limited Slip Differential.
Lexus-LC-500--LSD-S

Visually, the Lexus LC 500 and the Lexus LC 500h share the same design and styling cues, the only difference being the specific Hybrid badging. The Hybrid even carries the split rectangular dual exhaust tips. The overall design is boldly expressive and is literally drop dead gorgeous from virtually every viewing angle. It might well be referred to as seductively wrapped technology.
Lexus-LC-500-Nose-S
Up front is the traditional Lexus Spindle grille, but in a modified and enhanced form that blends with the dramatically sculpted hood, and is flanked by the Polaric Ellipsoid System compact lens LED 3-projector headlamps and lower air intakes. The grille features a progressively graduated mesh pattern, enlarged from top to bottom, with a bright surround trim without a top bar, and the headlamp assemblies form light rows that point to the grille.
Lexus-LC-500-RSF-R
In profile, the LC500 displays short front and rear overhangs and a roofline that appears to float free from the body, which sits low over the wheels. Both the shoulder and rocker lines sweep gracefully inward, reminiscent of early Coke bottles.
Lexus-LC-500-Tail-R
Lexus-LC-500-Trnk-R
In the rear, the bold new three-dimensional tail lamps accentuate the car’s low and wide stance, flowing around to the sides. There is an integrated spoiler lip just ahead of an active rear spoiler.
Lexus-LC-500-Int
Inside the cabin is a cockpit-like driver zone with dual “Oh s—t” grab handles for the front passenger for stabilization during spirited maneuvers. Controls and switchgear are optimally placed for ease of use. Even the non-sport seats are highly supportive and comfortable, and the driver’s seating position is ideally located to achieve a properly centered operational point.
Lexus-LC-500-Dsh
In terms of body rigidity, the new LC 500 serves up the stiffest Lexus built to date, including the LFA.

Several performance enhancement Packages are available as are a host of stand alone optional features. Connectivity and Infotainment are provided through Lexus Enform.
Lexus-LC-500-TWR-Brc
Takumi (translated as Master) craftsmanship is evident through out both new Lexus LC 500s.
Lexus-LC-500-LSF-S
During the national press launch program, I was afforded the opportunity to pilot first an LC500 V8, followed by an LC 500h over selected drive loops on the big island. The LC 500 wore an Infrared metallic exterior and featured a Black interior, and the LC 500h sported a Sonic Titanium exterior and Black interior. Both vehicles were preproduction units and as a result had no official Monroneys for final pricing. The LC 500 came to an estimated total of $99,995 after adding known Package pricing and Destination charges. The LC 500h had an estimated total of $97,905. No pricing was available for some Packages or some stand- alone optional features and equipment. Both LC 500 series vehicles could possibly exceed the $100,000. mark depending upon options and packages chosen. Optional equipment on the base LC 500 and LC500h models includes 20” and 2”forgedalloy wheels, a Mark Levinson audio System, Limited Slip Differential, Blind Spot Monitor, Intuitive Park Assist, Head-Up-Display, and a Cold Area Package that includes a heated steering wheel and windshield de-icer. The list of equipment and features that come as standard is considerable, but too lengthy to include here.

SUMMARY: As already stated, the 2018 Lexus LC 500 and 2018 Lexus LC 500h are both flagship status 2+2 performance coupes that share the same GL-A global platform architecture as well as the same stunningly beautiful, futuristic design appeal – the only differences being a subtle variance in badging.
Lexus-LC-500-Whl-S
In terms of the performance attributes, the V8 power of the LC 500, unquestionably moves it to the top rung of the performance ladder, although, it‘s only three tenths of a second quicker from 0-60 mph than its LC 500h hybrid stable mate, and its top speed capability is only 13 mph faster. Despite these factors, many colleagues found the performance of the LC 500h to be inferior – an analysis that I personally don’t agree with. I do feel however, that the extra cost of the hybrid may be difficult to justify. The top speed on the big island is 55 mph, which I’m sure was exceeded on more than one occasion by more than one participating journalist. Hey, both cars just want to go fast. And utilizing the paddle shifters on the LC 500 delivers a pleasingly raucous note, blipping the throttle during downshifts, when set in the sport + setting of the Drive mode Select knob.

The interior ambience showcases not only a smoothly flowing elegance, but delivers a comfortable and most supportive ride quality during highly spirited maneuvers. Despite its 2+2 designation, don’t plan lounging leisurely in the minimal rear seat, especially behind tall front seat occupants.

The driving dynamics are superb, providing a solid, planted feel, with spot-on steering responsiveness and road-holding grip. The Active Rear Steering is effective and comes as part of the $10,000 Sport Performance Package with Carbon that also includes a Variable Gear Ratio System, an Active Rear Spoiler, Alcantara headliner and Carbon Fiber scuff plates.
Lexus-LC-500-LSR-B
In the bottom line analysis, the 2018 model Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h 2+2 performance sport coupes provide entry into an exclusive class of luxury super sports cars, which are slated to go on sale in May when they first arrive in dealerships. Buyers will then be able to “Experience Amazing” enveloped in seductive technology – that according to Lexus insiders. Kudos to Toyota/Lexus chief Akio Toyoda for his meaningful vision and guidance in this super car to fruition.

 

SPECIFICATIONS: 2018 Lexus LC 500 and Lexus LC 500h

Base Price: $92,000. – LC 500 / $96,510. – LC 500h
Price as Tested: $99,995. – LC500 / $97,905. -LC 500h

Engine Type and Size: LC500 – 5.0-liter, DOHC, 32-valve, Dual VVT-I and EFI/D-4S
Horsepower (bhp): 471 @ 7,100 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 396 @ 4,800 rpm

Engine Type and Size: LC 500h Series/parallel system with gas engine and electric motors.
3.5-liter, DOHC, 24-valve V6 with VVT-iW, EFI and D-4S

Horsepower (bhp): 295 @ 6,600 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 256.7 @ 4,900 rpm
Total system power – 354 horsepower.
Water-cooled Permanent magnet synchronous motors.
MG-1- Primary generator, engine starter, controls engine speed.
MG-2 – Drives rear wheels; regenerative braking.
Lithium Battery Pack / 84 cells- 310.8 V nominal voltage / 650 V System voltage.

Transmission: LC500-Ten-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic with
paddle shifters and manual mode.
LC500h – Multi Stage Hybrid Transmission.

Drive Train: Longitudinally mounted front engine / Rear-Wheel Drive with available Limited Slip Differential.

Suspension: Front – Multi-link.
Rear – Multi-Link

Brakes: Power-assisted four-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake force Distribution and Brake Assist

Tires: Michelin 245/45 RF20 front / 275/40 RF20 rear – 0ptional 245/40 RF 21 front / 275/35 RF21 mounted on 5-“V”–spoke alloy wheels.

Wheelbase: 113.0 inches
Length Overall: 187.4 inches
Width: 75.6 inches – w/o mirrors.
Height: 53.0 inches – unloaded.
Curb Weight: 4,280 lbs. –LC500 / 4,435 lbs – LC 500h
Turning Circle: 17.7 ft. (17.4 w/Active Rear Steering).
Fuel Capacity: 21.7 gallons- LC500 / 22.2 gallons – LC500h
EPA Mileage Estimates: 16 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
Drag Coefficient: 0.33
0 – 60 mph: LC500-4.4 seconds –Top track speed 168 mph
LC500h-4.7 seconds – 155 mph top speed.

• Styling – 5 Stars
• Performance – 5 Stars
• Ride and Handling – 5 Stars
• Utility – 5 Stars
• Comfort and Convenience – 5 Stars
• Economy – 4.5 Stars
• Value and Competition – 4 Stars

SUMMARY – 4.78 Stars
The 2018 Lexus LC500 is a stunning example of a 2+2 Luxury Sport Coupe. Everything about it is first rate except perhaps the fuel economy, which the LC 500h makes up for, but it seems overpriced when compared to the 500C.

Can Your New Car Kill You: Which State Will be the First to Ban Autonomous Cars?

By
Anton Wahlman
-

Ford Robotic Test Drivers

From yesterday’s Wikileaks dump, “CIA planned to hack cars and trucks to carry out undetectable assassinations.”

  • If a car is connected to the Internet, has autonomous capabilities, and the two are connected, it will eventually be hacked.
  • The idea that the automobile will be the first connected computer to be hack-proof is as naive as it gets.
  • No Mayor, Governor or President will want a carnage of this nature to happen on their watch.
  • As a result, we are likely going to see bans on autonomous cars.  And of the automakers, Tesla is most exposed to the downside. It was in 2015 that I speculated about state actors taking control over self-driving cars as a tool to eliminate political enemies or other undesirable people
  • And yes, in that article I included analogies with Hitler, Mao and Stalin.  Basically, if they had remote access to self-driving cars, they would have had a field day with them.  No need to put the undesirables on trains or starve them to death.

I elaborated further in my piece from 2016 HERE.

Many people dismissed my article as total crackpot.  Basically, surely nobody would ever mis-use autonomous cars?  Instead of allegedly saving lives, autonomous cars would instead become a tool to enforce the state’s opinion on which people should live, and who should die.

Well, it now seems that at least the CIA has had the same idea.

“CIA planned to hack cars and trucks to carry out undetectable assassinations” is the headline.

Makes you feel really warm and fuzzy about the prospect of a remote person suddenly taking control of your car, and making your death seem like an accident, doesn’t it?

Car bombs are so 1970s Baader-Meinhof and Red Brigades — or Iraq ca 2005.  They leave a trace and risk alienate other civilians, perhaps with collateral casualties.  So messy.  So pre-self-driving cars.

Better yet to simply make it seem like Deplorable Bob fell asleep at the wheel, or drove into oncoming truck traffic.  “Hey, it was just a sad accident; Bob must have been distracted.”

Volvo Autonomous Drive

We keep hearing from companies who claim to have invented non-hackable cars.  Yeah, good luck with that!  If someone tells you that the first connected computer on Earth to be non-hackable will be the automobile, I have some beachfront property in Nebraska to sell you.

If it’s possible to make something non-hackable, why didn’t someone think of that before?  How about a non-hackable PC?  A non-hackable smartphone?  Etcetera.  Surely the car can’t be the only item that can be made non-hackable, then.  You think that if it was possible, someone might be offering that kind of non-hackable computer already a long time ago.

The question isn’t whether a connected car — which of course contains one or several computers — will be hacked.  The question is only when and by whom.  People will listen to what you say in your car, and if the car is self-driving, they can inject a little bit of horror at just the right moment.  One second of the wrong steering or acceleration input means certain death.

It’s not important whether it’s the CIA, FBI, GRU, FSA or some other 3-letter government entity that does it first.  This arms race will be universal far faster than nuclear proliferation.  From some 16 year old schmuck who is sitting in his mom’s basement, to a sophisticated government intelligence, military or law enforcement agency, we are facing a future in which the automobile fleet will soon become nothing but remotely controlled missiles on four wheels.

2016 ford fusion av autonomous vehicle

In order to prevent such a certain calamity, government action will be not only necessary, but more likely than not.  People should have the right to take their own risks, but the problem is that innocent people who refuse to drive connected and self-driving cars will be in danger, through no fault on their own.  It is the same reason behind having speed limits: They’re not meant for you; they’re meant to protect the people around you.

What does this mean for government policy?

Total physical mayhem in society resulting from cars deliberately slamming into things based on commands from people located near and far, is not what you want if you are a Mayor, Governor or President.  There is only one way to ensure that this does not happen on your watch.

And that is to ban the combination of autonomous and connected cars.

Autonomous cars might be allowed — as long as they are not connected to the cloud/Internet.  Connected cars might be allowed — as long as they have no autonomous capabilities.

But not both technologies in the same car.  That would be banned.

Whether you are a Mayor, a Governor or the U.S. President, this should be on your thoughts.  Do you want this to happen on your watch?

I expect the first bans within the next year or two, probably driven by a state government.  Then again, perhaps the Trump administration, fearing annihilation of the U.S. population orchestrated by a foreign or domestic hacker, will make the first move.

What does it mean for the automakers?

Probably not much, for many of them.  If you are selling cars with limited if any, autonomous capabilities, there is probably nothing to worry about.  That goes for many cars today, from most large automakers such as FCA (FCAU), Ford (F), Mazda and General Motors (GM), just to mention some obvious examples.

Likewise, if you sell a car that’s connected to the cloud, but the car may not steer, accelerate or brake autonomously, that shouldn’t be a worry.  Many of the large automakers could fall into this category as well.

On the other hand, an example of a car that is connected AND has some significant autonomous capabilities to steer, brake and accelerate, is Tesla (TSLA).  With so much of Tesla’s marketing message and — presumably — its valuation, resting on consumer interest in autonomous driving, this is a major risk factor for the stock.

Conclusion: Predicting the future

So what do you think?  Will a Mayor, Governor or the President be the first one to ban autonomous cars?  Or will it happen in some other country first?

As a consumer:  What to do?

If you want to be on the safe side, and you don’t have a death wish, may I interest you in a car that’s not connected and that has no capacity to steer your car remotely?  The trusty Toyota Corolla is sounding better by the minute here.
____________
At the time of submitting this article for publication, the author was long GM and F, and short TSLA.  However, positions can change at any time.  The author regularly attends press conferences, new vehicle launches and equivalent, hosted by most major automakers.

Editor’s Note: All opinions expressed are that of the author.

Driving the 2018 Toyota C-HR – A little mirth in a mirth-less world

By
Nathan Adlen
-

 

2018 toyota chr
2018 Toyota C-HR

Would you believe me if I told you that the 2018 Toyota C-HR’s Deputy Chief Engineer, Hiro Koba  took it to the Nurburgring to tune its handling? It’s true. What if I told you that you can buy one of these tall hatchbacks for an MSRP of $22,500? That’s true too. There is plenty to like about this little runabout, as long as you don’t get hung up on the fact that, overseas, its available with lots of goodies we don’t get.

According to Toyota: “The C-HR’s engine, a punchy 2.0-liter four-cylinder dual-overhead cam producing 144 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 139 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm, sends all power to the front wheels via the Continuously Variable Transmission with intelligence and Shift mode (CVTi-S). 

EPA-estimates are 27 city/31 highway/29 combined miles-per-gallon for both trim levels.

It comes with:

  • Standard Pre-Collision System with Active Braking
  • Toyota Safety Sense P™ (TSSP)  with Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
  • 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/50R-18 all-season tires
  • Dual-zone climate control
  • Bucket seating with 60/40 split folding rear seats
  • 7-inch audio display

The 2018 Toyota C-HR is available in two grades, XLE and XLE Premium.

According to Toyota: “(The) XLE Premium adds Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert; heated front
seats; eight-way adjustable with Push Button Start.”

We covered some additional technical components (here).

Driving: The 2018 Toyota C-HR is a bit of a dancer. It actually likes to scoot around corners and it thrives on uneven road surfaces. With excellent wheel travel spacing and a double wishbone rear suspension, the 2018 Toyota C-HR felt a bit like a rally car. It’s body dips only on the hardest of road obstacles; when it does, it squats a bit and immediately regains its footing, once again, like a rally car.

Despite its height, its body-roll is minimal and its adhesion is excellent. It’s happy to squirt our of corners, and the breaks are beefy enough not to fade after spirited driving. While the tires do moan under stress, the platform feels well sorted, as if it could handle a lot more power… and that’s the rub.

You see, 144 hp isn’t enough. Front-wheel drive isn’t enough and a CVT isn’t enough. This car can handle so much more and, compared to its competition in North America, it truly should. It also needs things like up-to-date infotainment system, a sun-roof option and a ski/surf/kayak roof rack in the option’s list.

Here are some additional numbers:

  • Width (70.7 in.),
  • Height (61.6 in),
  • Length (171.2 in.)
  • Wheelbase (103.9 in.)
  • The 2018 Toyota C-HR produces 0.34 coefficient of drag

Here’s Toyota’s take on its handling.

“Years were spent developing on-road nimbleness and ride quality on some of the world’s most curvaceous and pitted roads, including the Nürburgring Nordschleife, an iconic racing circuit set in Germany’s Eifel mountains.”

While the Nürburgring is an exceptional place to tune a sports car, it remains to be seen if it helps develop the character of a hatchback runabout. This is not a sports car, it’s a cheeky little commuter that has character, good cornering characteristics and a humble personality. I don’t think mentioning the Nürburgring changes what it truly is. 

Suspension tuning is the real story with the 2018 Toyota C-HR’s abilities. Up front – MacPherson strut front suspension with SACHS dampers has angled strut bearings and a large diameter stabilizer bar . The rear suspension is an double-wishbone suspension utilizes a 26-mm stabilizer bar and SACHS dampers with urethane upper supports.

It all works to make this vehicle truly enjoyable in the corners.

The 2018 Toyota C-HR is a pleasing car to drive and, with its great packaging, it’s pretty utilitarian too. I came to the conclusion that, while it looks like a competitor to vehicles like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX3 and Jeep Renegade, its more of a competitor to vehicles like the Kia Soul, Honda Fit and Nissan Versa Note. It would make a great alternative to a simple Toyota Yaris too.

I wonder how it will perform in snow country?

Check out the video!

Watch Out Honda CR-V! The New 2017 Mazda CX-5 Starts at $24,045

By
Andre Smirnov
-
2017 Mazda CX-5

The new 2017 Mazda CX-5 is ever close to hitting dealership lots. The time has come to get more details about Mazda latest compact crossover. This is Mazda’s best selling vehicle, so the company is taking every step very seriously. The new crossover will start at $24,045, which happens to be the exact same starting price as the class sales leader, the Honda CR-V.

The MX-5 launches with one engine option, which is the 2.5L four-cylinder. The crossover is offered with a choice of FWD or AWD.

We are traveling to the launch event of the CX-5, so you can be sure that we will brings all the information and a video review of the car very soon!

Get all the details we know so far in this “Everything” video from the 2016 LA Auto Show.

The All-New 2018 Volvo XC60 Grows in Size, Gains Fast and Efficient T8 Model [2017 Geneva Motor Show]

By
Nathan Adlen
-
The new 2018 Volvo XC60

The 2018 Volvo XC60 debuted at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show surprising many with big numbers, a larger size, and striking looks. Volvo says their T8 “Twin Engine” (gas) plug-in hybrid will make 407 horsepower and will do a 0-62 mph (0-100 Kmh) run in 5.3 seconds. That is legitimately fast and, as with many hybrids, it will be green and efficient (about 30 miles of electric range).

European customers can expect the following. “We have a wide range of powertrains. The new XC60 will launch with the diesel D4 engine at 190 hp and the D5 with PowerPulse technology delivering 235 hp. We also have the petrol-powered T5 delivering 254 hp and the T6, which with both turbo and superchargers attached, delivers 320 hp and 400 Nm of torque,” added Henrik Green of Volvo Car Group.

The 2018 Volvo XC60 looks completely new with an exterior that’s reminiscent of the award-winning Volvo XC90. It is modern and new without misplacing its heritage. It looks like a Volvo. The interior shares the 2018 Volvo XC60 remodeling and upgrades as well. The car rides on a wheelbase that is 3.6 inches longer than on the previous generation. This will be most welcomed by the passengers in the second row.

“The XC60 is an SUV not designed to look down on others but to drive. The exterior has an athletic sculpture with a subtle, timeless quality. The interior is a masterful composition of well-resolved architecture, beautiful materials and the very latest technology – all perfectly blended together. The XC60 provides a true Scandinavian experience which will make our customers feel special,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President, Design at Volvo Car Group.

Volvo is updating/upgrading their safety innovations they are famous for in the 2018 Volvo XC60. The 2018 Volvo XC60 has Pilot Assist which is a semi-autonomous system that can assist with steering, braking and accelerating – or take these functions over when needed. It works up to 80 mph. It also has Oncoming Lane Mitigation as well.

“We have a strong heritage in designing stylish and dynamic SUVs that offer the latest in technology. The new XC60 will be no exception. It’s the perfect car for an active lifestyle, and it represents the next step in our transformation plan,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and Chief Executive, Volvo Car Group.

While Volvo has not mentioned pricing for the 2018 Volvo XC60, they tend to undercut their German rivals by a significant margin.

The 2018 Volvo XC60 will go into production in mid-April at the Torslanda Plant in Sweden and will be available in North American in the fall of 2017.

Mercedes-AMG GT Concept Packs 805 HP and Will Take You to 60 MPH in Under 3.0 Seconds [2017 Geneva Motor Show]

By
Andre Smirnov
-

The Mercedes-AMG GT Concept sedan is finally here, and the initial specifications are mind-blowing. This is a case of Mercedes bringing successful Formula 1 technology to a consumer-based package as embodied by this concept car. Mercedes calls the new performance gas/electric hybrid system – “EQ Power+”. The company claims 805 total system horsepower when you combine the 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 engine with an electric motor. AMG claims that the car is capable of 0-60 MPH acceleration in under 3.0 seconds. (This would put it on par with the most powerful Tesla Model S sedan).

The GT Concept employs the latest 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system to put the power to the ground. The system is able to shift torque from side to side (torque vectoring) for optimum performance and handling.

The electric motor helps by sending power to the rear axle. The concept car can operate purely in electric more, purely in gasoline mode, or by blending the two power sources together. Mercedes claims that the battery system has a large reserve and can be recharged via regenerative braking or by using the gas engine as a generator. While this is not a new concept, folks at AMG say that they leveraged the Formula 1 racing experience to extract high amounts of power and efficiency from this hybrid system.

This concept is very intriguing and appears production-ready, but Mercedes has not said whether this concept will be going to production. The company did say that we can expect production vehicles with the “EQ Power+” label in the future.

You can briefly hear the exhaust note of the GT Concept is this promotional Mercedes-AMG video.

The 2017 Honda Civic Type R Unveiled and it is Coming to America!

By
Roman Mica
-

The 2017 Honda Civic Type R is finally here. The car just rolled out at the Geneva Auto Show in European trim but don’t worry, unlike the last generation, it is scheduled to come to America this spring.

Under the sexy hood is a 2.0-liter, DOHC, direct-injected, turbocharged, i-VTEC inline-four that produces 306 HP and 295lb-ft. Power is fed exclusively through the front wheels and Honda says the 2017 Honda Civic Type R is stiffer ( 38 percent increase in torsional rigidity) and supposedly faster then the outgoing model. The last gen model posted the same torque but 10 fewer horses.

The good news for sports car purist is that the 2017 Honda Civic Type R is only available in a six speed manual transmission with rev matching for easier up and down shifts.

Perhaps just as interesting is that the 2017 Honda Civic Type R now comes with several different drive modes that feature adaptive dampers, steering, shift feel, and throttle response.

Check out this TFL video below as we got an exclusive sneak peek at the prototype cars interior at the LA Auto Show. Do you like the new car? Please let us know what you think in the comments below.

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