For a few lucky people, Christmas will arrive a little early this year as Ford GTs are now starting to roll off of the assembly line.
The first production version of the long-awaited supercar came off the assembly line in Markham, Ontario on Friday, driven off the line by Ford CTO and Executive Vice President of global product development Raj Nair.
At the event, Nair said that Ford had two goals for the GT this year. One was to do well at Le Mans, which it did by winning the GTE pro class and coming in 18th overall. The other was to start deliveries in 2016, and although they came in a bit under the wire, they succeeded in getting the first GTs off the line.
The Ford GT is the company’s latest recreation of the famed GT40 racers from the 1960s. This current version has a 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6 that is expected to make more than 600 horsepower. Reservations are closed, so the cars coming off the line now are already spoken for.
General Motors has begun testing fully autonomous development fleet vehicles on public roads in Michigan, starting with roads nearby its Technical Center in Warren.
The Chevy Bolt will become GM’s first ever autonomous car that will soon be tested in public streets.
GM announced recently that it already is testing autonomous technology at its campus in Warren, Michigan, and will soon build a Bolt that will be tested on the outskirts of the campus.
The Bolt EV will be equipped with fully automated technology. The vehicle will have LIDAR, cameras, sensors and other equipment that will be used for self driving and to ensure safety. Production on the new Bolt will begin at GM’s Orion Township plant in 2017.
“Revolutionizing transportation for our customers while improving safety on roads is the goal of our autonomous vehicle technology, and today’s announcement gets us one step closer to making this vision a reality,” said General Motors Chairman and CEO Mary Barra. “Our autonomous technology will be reliable and safe, as customers have come to expect from any of our vehicles.”
General Motors has begun testing fully autonomous development fleet vehicles on public roads in Michigan, starting with roads nearby its Technical Center in Warren.
Already, GM is testing its autonomous technology on public roads in San Francisco and Scottsdale, Arizona in addition to the campus in Michigan. So far, GM has about 40 autonomous vehicles testing within the two cities. GM will continue its testing and enhancement of autonomous driving technology with the Bolt.
The Bolt announcement is another step in GM’s decision to explore autonomous driving technologies.
Earlier this year, GM announced that it made a $500 million investment in Lyft, a ride-sharing company, to develop a network of on-demand autonomous vehicles in the United States.
Check out this related TFLcar video of the Bolt’s cousin, the Chevrolet Volt:
In 2016, Chevy introduced the new compact Equinox crossover, while GMC introduced the new midsize Acadia crossover. Now, just as the calendar switches over to 2017, the companies will reverse roles, as both the new midsize Chevrolet Traverse and the compact GMC Terrain will debut in Detroit at the 2017 North American International Auto Show.
According to a report in Automotive News, both models, which are both designated as 2018s, will make their debut at the show and then go on sale later in the year, shortly after the new Equinox hits showrooms.
Since these are all GM products, they are obviously related to each other and share platforms. The new Terrain shares the same Cruze-based platform as the new Equinox, and the Traverse shares the same platform as the Acadia, although the report says it won’t be quite as downsized as its GMC brethren.
TFLcar will be covering the Detroit auto show, so stay tuned for more updates.
And check out this TFLcar video of the new Equinox’s debut in Chicago:
Just as Italy’s Stelvio Pass once was the artificial boundary for 3 countries, the automotive industry once had clear identifying features to distinguish its segments. The lines are becoming even more blurred with each successive model. Alfa’s latest performance SUV, appropriately named Stelvio, is determined to push the boundaries even further and inject the brand’s Italian sports car soul into the SUV world.
At the 2016 L.A. Auto show, covered by TFL’s own Nathan Adlen, Alfa introduced the Stelvio, in Quadrifoglio (high performance) spec, nonetheless. The company claims their small SUV has la meccanica delle emozioni (the mechanics of emotion) and can rightfully wear the Quadrifoglio, which is a symbol of Alfa’s motorsports heritage and some good ol’ fashioned luck.
The Stelvio is the second model in Alfa’s comeback in the U.S. after the 4C. The Giulia sports sedan debuted only a short time prior and the two cars share many of the same components. Most importantly, what has Alfa done to differentiate the two?
Although the Stelvio’s price and timing details are limited, we know quite a bit about its mechanicals. It’s built upon the same, multi-material, rear-wheel drive, platform as the 2016 EuroCarBody Award-winning Giulia sedan, and each model claims of having the most direct steering in its class, near perfect weight distribution, and impressive power to weight ratio.
Also shared with the sedan are the powertrain and drivetrain components. In the Quadrifoglio model (you will come to know that phrase), the 3.9L twin-turbo V6 pushes out 505HP and 443ft-lb of torque. For those willing to brake-torque their nearly $80k (expected) new SUV, Alfa claims a 0-60 mph time of less than 4 seconds. For those less tempted by the most powerful vehicle in its class, a high-output 4-cylinder turbo will also be available. As where the Giulia is offered with rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, the Stelvio is only offered with Q4 all-wheel drive. The system can transfer up to 60 percent up to the front wheels. The 8-speed ZF automatic transmission is also shared among the two models, however, only the Stelvio comes standard with a carbon-fiber driveshaft.
The styling of both cars share a clear brand-centric theme with the trilobe grille and the graceful curves along the side to meet into sharp, athletic edges. The greenhouse areas are equally angled forward. Also from the side, one can see that the overall shape is well balanced with little front or rear overhangs and their bodies hang low to the ground. Differences seen with every panel allows the two cars to be recognizable as their own independent version yet allows Alfa to save significantly by using this common platform. It certainly provides some unique flair in this price point.
In a bit of perfect timing, the Stelvio is launching into an already exploding market. We have seen high performance full-size SUV models such as the Range Rover Sport SVR, Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, and Mercedes-Benz GLE AMG63 S, so it’s only natural for the small SUV segment to be ready for a similar high-performance influx. Expect more to come in this upcoming feisty, big boosted performance zone.
By coming out swinging and delivering major performance numbers, they are quickly delivering a message that Alfa Romeo is a performance brand. With access to Ferrari-based powertrains, smart chassis engineering, and its racing pedigree, the Stelvio is a born success.
Check out this TFLcar video of the Stelvio’s LA debut:
The former Top Gear trio has a new show out on Amazon Prime called The Grand Tour. We have seen 1/3 of the first season so far (episodes 1-4), this is an appropriate moment to review the season thus far. Some parts of the show have been excellent, and some not so much. This begs the question: Is it any good?
Before you read on I will say that this contains spoilers, so here is your fair warning!
After creating a brand new automotive segment over 30 years ago with the introduction of the very first minivan, FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) has reinvented the minivan with the all-new ninth generation Chrysler Pacifica for 2017, and has added its first hybrid to the lineup – the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid.
The Pacifica has emerged as an all-new platform replacing the outgoing premium Chrysler Town & Country minivan. It bowed initially with five levels of trim or distinctively different models in terms of content, and is now joined by the Hybrid version. The trim levels include the base model LX, followed by the Touring, the Touring-L, the Pacifica Touring-L Plus, and a flagship Limited model that comes with all the bells and whistles. The Pacifica went on sale in April of this year, while the Plug-in Hybrid version is slated to go on sale early in 2017.
For starters, all models will come in a front-wheel drive configuration, with the possibility of all-wheel drive being added later in production, except for the Pacifica Hybrid, which will only be available as a front-wheel-drive vehicle.
Gasoline Pacificas draw their motive force from a transversely-mounted 3.6-liter Pentastar, DOHC, 24-valve V6 engine with sequential multiport electronic returnless fuel injection that makes 287 horsepower at 6,400 rpm, while also developing 262 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Power is delivered to the front wheels through a TorqueFlite nine-speed automatic transmission with rotary dial e-shift technology. The Pacifica Hybrid adds Atkinson Cycle technology with a total of 260 Hybrid System horsepower.
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid and Pacifica have been re-engineered to deliver class-leading ride quality and handling characteristics along with reduced noise, vibration and harshness. and are set to revolutionize the minivan market with nearly 40 minivan firsts. To date, FCA US now lays claim to an unprecedented 115 significant minivan innovations.
Visually, the Pacifica delivers a sophisticated, sculptural exterior, with a bold athletic stance and aerodynamic profile that emphasizes an aggressive wheel to body proportion. Its long wheelbase, widened track and low ground clearance contribute to its sleek and futuristic image.
The Pacifica’s frontal view features the Chrysler brand’s contemporary face, with a graceful, flowing upper and lower grille. The slim upper grille flows smoothly into the headlamps, while the Chrysler wing logo floats within the mesh grille texture on gas models with a blue field. The upper and lower grilles of the hybrid both have wave-like horizontal bars, with the winged logo center appearing in teal. Ribbon-like chrome accents that flow in tandem displaying a geometric balance and a premium appearance surround both grilles. A chrome strip cradles the available LED fog lamps and intertwine with the fog lamp housing and the lower grille.
The sculpted hood is robust with distinctive character lines leading the eye to the upper grille, and it shingles over for a clean, seamless appearance. The body side sections are highlighted by an A-line that arcs gracefully from front to rear, tracing downward into the rear fascia and defining the rear quarter section.
The sculptural nature of the Pacifica’s body section with its lower surface character line, combined with the A-line and rear fascia surfacing, add to the Pacifica’s overall fluid-like surface that dances with layers of light from virtually every angle. A visually stretched daylight opening defines the upper canopy that is accented by a chrome surround, which, as it travels aft, thins and thickens as if drawn with a brush. The sliding door track lines are cleverly hidden beneath the rear-quarter side glass, resulting in virtually invisible tracks.
From the rear, the Pacifica’s fluid appearance becomes increasingly evident, with a roof that blends into a sculpted, integrated rear spoiler at the rear-most trailing edge. The forward-swept D-pillars accentuate the faster side and roof profile. The rear liftgate glass is tucked into and offset from the D-pillars, with the liftgate glass integrated seamlessly into the tail lamps for a unified effect. As with the front fascia, the rear fascia projects simplicity and sculpture, with a minimized rear bumper shelf that helps to marry the liftgate and rear fascia. The rear fascia features an integrated black valance panel that includes rear reflex and a bright chrome horizontal detail to visually lighten the rear of the vehicle, enhancing Pacifica’s wide stance. Horizontally-oriented tail lamps feature an LED “halo signature” with an even glow for a modern appearance. The tail lamps are integrated into the rear backlight and are extended outward.
Moving to the inside, which is horizontally drawn, emphasizes the spaciousness of the vehicle, while mixing high-tech elements with a sculpted, flair. Outlets appear more formal, highlighted by a simple thinner chrome ring for a precise feel. Bezels feature a similarly weighted accent. Modern color and material trim combinations are highlighted by unique interior accents in the doors and instrument panel. These interior environments were inspired by various locations in the United States. The tone-on-tone control knobs in the center stack feature a spun finish, reminiscent of high-end audio equipment.
The Uconnect touchscreen – available as either a 5-inch or 8.4-inch – is set flush with the instrument panel for a clean, technical look. With a glossy screen surface that allows for higher contrast, the touchscreen feels futuristic and in line with other modern devices, like a tablet.
In daylight, the interior is all about beauty and sculpture, with the instrument panel’s defined, fluid surface at the center of it all. On upper trim levels, a stitched instrument panel adds an even higher touch of adornment. At night, the interior evokes a different emotion with a more high-tech look, with white lighting on buttons and the cluster display glowing with Chrysler blue. Hybrid models display teal accent lighting and steering wheel logo center. Other hybrid control elements also use teal lighting, versus the traditionally used amber, for a more cohesive and technical look.
The spacious interior delivers best-in-class front-row and third-row legroom, and an available tri-pane panoramic sunroof adds to the feeling of openness, with a dual-pane panoramic sunroof over the front- and second-row seats and fixed glass pane over the third row. The HVAC controls are consolidated in the headliner, running cleanly along the rails. In the rear, the HVAC controls are on the passenger side headliner – a thoughtful consideration.
The Pacifica’s innovative Stow ‘n Go floor bins offer storage when the second-row seats are not stowed, and the enhanced Stow ‘n Go system features redesigned seats for added comfort and side support. The Stow ‘n Go process has been improved so that the seats fold smoothly forward into the tubs, while the addition of the all-new Stow ‘n Go Assist feature helps to further simplify the process. With the press of a button on the B-pillar, the front seat moves forward to allow the second-row seat to be stowed. Pressing the button again moves the front seat back to its starting position. In addition, the Easy Tilt second-row seats allow for easy access to the third row, even with an empty child seat installed in the second row
Seating delivers even more functionality with the addition of the available eight passenger seating. The lightweight, removable eighth-passenger seat fits in between the existing second-row seats and functions as a large second-row armrest with cupholders when not in use. Hybrid models do not offer Stow’n Go seating due to the added batteries, but still provide accommodations for seven, in a 2/2/3 arrangement with the rear bench split into a 60/40 configuration. Cargo space remains uncompromised with the 16-kWh battery pack efficiently stored beneath the second-row floor
The hands-free liftgate and side doors open and close by passing a foot beneath for added convenience.
The Uconnect Theater option includes 115-volt auxiliary power outlet, Active Noise Control System, 13 amplified speakers, three-channel wireless headphones, Blu-ray/DVD player/USB port, 506-watt amplifier, three-channel video remote control, high definition multimedia interface, 10-in. seatback video screens, third-row USB charge port and video USB port.
Safety and security abound in the new Pacifica lineup, with helpful features such as 360-degree surround view camera with bird’s eye perspective, ParkSense Parallel/Perpendicular Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning Plus, LaneSense Departure Warning and an all-new KeySense programmable key fob.
My pre-production test Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid had the tri-panel sunroof and 18-inch wheels and tires. It was sprayed outside in Billet Silver metallic and finished inside in Gray and Charcoal tones. The base price was $37,895. While the final count and amount came to $42,170. The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan delivers a luxury sedan-like ride, with comfortable and supportive seating, along with responsive damping. Acceleration is more than adequate with a broad torque range. The Pacifica delivers twice the torsional rigidity of the outgoing Town & Country for heightened stability. The 9-speed e-Flite automatic transmission shifted smoothly. There are so many creature comfort features included as standard fare in the new Pacifica Hybrid that it is truly a marvel in family transportation, delivering what may well be the ultimate in functionality and versatility.
Automotive journalists were given the opportunity to put the new Pacifica Hybrid through its paces in a variety of scenarios. with a challenging ride and drive on crowded freeways and over twisting mountain roads.
Think of the Pacifica not as a “soccer mom” van of old, but as an efficient, fully equipped adventure pod for the entire family and all their gear. EPA mileage estimates had yet to be certified as of this writing, but the all-new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, the industry’s first electrified minivan, will deliver an estimated range of 30 miles solely on zero-emissions electric power from a 16-kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery.
In city driving, it is expected to achieve an efficiency rating of 80 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards. When the battery’s energy is depleted to a certain level, the Pacifica Hybrid becomes a part-time electric vehicle, like a conventional hybrid. Power to the wheels is supplied by the electric drive system or supplemented by a specially adapted new version of the Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine.
The battery pack may be fully recharged in as little as two hours using a 240-volt level-2 plug-in system, or in roughly 14 hours using a standard 110V household plug. It is in reality a plug-in electric vehicle that eliminates “range anxiety” with the standard V6 gas engine.
It is estimated that minivan drivers travel an average of 30 miles each day, meaning that most Pacifica Hybrid owners will be able to complete their daily activities solely on electric power, but for longer trips, the 30-mile all-electric range combined with a full tank of fuel will deliver an expected total range of 530 miles. The Pacifica Hybrid is capable of a top electric mode only speed of up to 75 mph.
The Pacifica Hybrid has a wealth of content and features offered at affordable prices, and due to its added 613 pounds mounted low seems to handle better than the gasoline version.
The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is built on the same line as the gas models at the Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
SPECIFICATIONS: 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Base Price: $37,895.
Price as Tested: $42,170.
Engine Type and Size: 3.6-liter Pentastar, DOHC, 24-valve V6 with p fuel injection. (Atkinson Cycle)
Horsepower (bhp): 287 @ 6,400 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 262 @ 4,000 rpm
Total Hybrid System power = 260 horsepower.
Transmission: EFlite Nine-speed electrically variable automatic with rotary dial e- shift technology with dual-motor EV drive capability.
Drive Train: Transversely mounted front engine / Front-wheel drive.
Suspension: Front – Independent MacPherson strut, coil over gas- charged shock absorbers, stabilizer bar with hydroformed steel perimeter cradle.
Rear – Independent twist-blade with coil springs, twin-tube shock absorbers with integrated rebound springs (hybrid models).
Brakes: Power vacuum assisted four-wheel discs (vented
front) with ABS, Traction Control and Brake Assist and regenerative braking.
Tires: Michelin Premier A/S 235/60 R18 mounted on silver painted 7-“Geo Blade-spoke alloy wheels.
Production of the all-new 2018 Volkswagen Atlas started at the company’s Chattanooga, Tennessee plant today. It’s the company’s first three-row SUV/crossover and marks a shift in focus for the beleaguered company.
The Atlas made its world debut in Santa Monica, California back in October. While it doesn’t set new standards in crossover design, it’s rendered in Volkswagen’s typical understated Germanic style. It will come with a choice of either a 238 hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a 280 hp 3.6-liter V6, the familiar VR6 engine. An eight-speed automatic is attached to either engine, and all-wheel drive is available on the V6 model.
Volkswagen invested $900 million in the Chattanooga plant for production of the Atlas, which will be made alongside the Passat sedan.
The company has not yet announced pricing for the Atlas, which should go on sale in Spring of 2017. Stay tuned to TFLcar for more updates on the new, big VW.
And check out this TFLcar video of the everything we know about the Volkswagen Atlas:
With the end of 2016 quickly approaching, we always like to take a look back at the year and reflect. Many great new cars came out this year, and similarly, there will be a number of cars that will not be returning in the coming years. So, we thought we would make a list of the top 10 cars that will be discontinued after 2017.
Along with the list, we have given our insight as to why these cars are being discontinued. For some it is a lack of sales, and for others it is merely a matter of the company coming out with a better replacement. Some of these cars we will miss, and others, not so much.
First up is the Dodge Viper. This is a car that always made very impressive numbers. Featuring a fire breathing 8.4L V10 that made well over 600 hp, it is hard not to be impressed by this car. Unfortunately, it just didn’t sell very well. Roman suspects this is because the Viper never had an automatic transmission. Nathan, on the other hand, argues that the Corvette just stole the market from this car. Regardless, the Viper will be gone and we are not sure if or when it will be back. I know I will miss it, if for no other reason than the sheer insanity of it.
The next car from the list that I want to talk about is one that is near and dear to my heart. That is the three-door VW GTI. I personally own a five-door GTI, which I got for the practicality that five doors offers. It seems the rest of GTI buyers had a similar idea as VW barely sold any three-doors. I personally felt that the three-door always looked much better, but alas, it will be leaving us.
There are a bunch more cars on the list, but to find out what else is leaving, you’ll have to watch the full video above.
The NHTSA is once again investigating Honda's 3.5-liter V6 engine after hundreds of complaints of failures — many of which were outside the scope of its initial probe (and Honda's 2023 recall).
