Sunday
Feb242019
FEBRUARY 27, 2019
Sunday, February 24, 2019 at 08:56AM 
(Toyota images)
It's almost spring, so, as expected, a flurry of "special editions" will be released by the various auto manufacturers. This week it is Lexus who is giving buyers a tarted-up 2019 IS 300 F SPORT called the Black Line Special Edition. Available on both the rear-wheel and all-wheel drive IS 300 F SPORT models, the Black Line Special Edition features 18-inch, split spoke wheels with a “black vapor chrome” finish; black side mirrors regardless of body color and three exterior colors: Ultra White, Obsidian and Atomic Silver. Other stuff? Black Nuluxe seats with red accents on the side bolsters and seat cushions; red accent panels on each side of the center stack and contrasting red stitching on the seats, center console and armrests. Also included is a heated, black wood-trimmed steering wheel that features distinctive shades of black that were created by a Japanese calligraphy shop dedicated to perfecting ink for more than 200 years. All Black Line models come equipped with Navigation and triple beam LED headlamps. Rear-wheel drive versions of the IS 300 Black Line Special Edition are powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged, 241HP four-cylinder with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The all-wheel drive version of the Black Line Special Edition has a 3.5-liter V6 with 260HP and a six-speed automatic transmission. Production of the 2019 IS 300 Black Line Special Edition is limited to 900 units and began in early February; dealers will have them starting in March.
It's almost spring, so, as expected, a flurry of "special editions" will be released by the various auto manufacturers. This week it is Lexus who is giving buyers a tarted-up 2019 IS 300 F SPORT called the Black Line Special Edition. Available on both the rear-wheel and all-wheel drive IS 300 F SPORT models, the Black Line Special Edition features 18-inch, split spoke wheels with a “black vapor chrome” finish; black side mirrors regardless of body color and three exterior colors: Ultra White, Obsidian and Atomic Silver. Other stuff? Black Nuluxe seats with red accents on the side bolsters and seat cushions; red accent panels on each side of the center stack and contrasting red stitching on the seats, center console and armrests. Also included is a heated, black wood-trimmed steering wheel that features distinctive shades of black that were created by a Japanese calligraphy shop dedicated to perfecting ink for more than 200 years. All Black Line models come equipped with Navigation and triple beam LED headlamps. Rear-wheel drive versions of the IS 300 Black Line Special Edition are powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged, 241HP four-cylinder with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The all-wheel drive version of the Black Line Special Edition has a 3.5-liter V6 with 260HP and a six-speed automatic transmission. Production of the 2019 IS 300 Black Line Special Edition is limited to 900 units and began in early February; dealers will have them starting in March.
(Lamborghini)
Automobili Lamborghini will unveil the new Lamborghini Huracán EVO Spyder at the Geneva Motor Show. It is the second model in the V10 Huracán EVO lineup. The Spyder adopts the next-generation vehicle dynamic control and aerodynamics developed for the coupé, with the 5.2 liter naturally-aspirated Lamborghini V10 engine uprated for a higher power output and incorporating Titanium intake valves. The Huracán EVO Spyder has 640HP (470 kW) at 8,000 rpm with 600 Nm of torque delivered at 6,500 rpm. With a dry weight of 1,542 kg the car reaches a weight-to-power ratio of 2.41 kg/hp, accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and from 0-200 km/h in 9.3 seconds. Braking from 100 km/h to 0 is achieved in 32.2 m, with a top speed of 325 km/h. How much? $287,400 in the U.S.
Automobili Lamborghini will unveil the new Lamborghini Huracán EVO Spyder at the Geneva Motor Show. It is the second model in the V10 Huracán EVO lineup. The Spyder adopts the next-generation vehicle dynamic control and aerodynamics developed for the coupé, with the 5.2 liter naturally-aspirated Lamborghini V10 engine uprated for a higher power output and incorporating Titanium intake valves. The Huracán EVO Spyder has 640HP (470 kW) at 8,000 rpm with 600 Nm of torque delivered at 6,500 rpm. With a dry weight of 1,542 kg the car reaches a weight-to-power ratio of 2.41 kg/hp, accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and from 0-200 km/h in 9.3 seconds. Braking from 100 km/h to 0 is achieved in 32.2 m, with a top speed of 325 km/h. How much? $287,400 in the U.S.
(Mercedes-Benz)
Mercedes-AMG has introduced its performance version for the new GLE generation with the GLE 53 at the Geneva Motor Show. It is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter, in-line six-cylinder engine that generates 429HP and delivers maximum torque of 384 lb-ft. Its EQ Boost starter generator briefly provides an additional 21HP of output plus 184 lb-ft of torque and additionally feeds the 48 V on-board electrical system. The EQ Boost starter-generator combines a starter and generator in a electric motor that is fitted between the engine and transmission. Intelligent charging via an electric auxiliary compressor and an exhaust gas turbocharger enhance the performance and driving dynamics, but also reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The GLE 53 accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. Other stuff? Fully variable all-wheel drive, 9-speed automatic transmission, AMG-specific drive programs and the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL based on AIRMATIC with electro-mechanical roll stabilization. The GLE 53 features the AMG-specific radiator grille and numerous options are available such as the selectable performance exhaust system and AMG steering wheel button controls. It won't be available until the end of 2020.
Mercedes-AMG has introduced its performance version for the new GLE generation with the GLE 53 at the Geneva Motor Show. It is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter, in-line six-cylinder engine that generates 429HP and delivers maximum torque of 384 lb-ft. Its EQ Boost starter generator briefly provides an additional 21HP of output plus 184 lb-ft of torque and additionally feeds the 48 V on-board electrical system. The EQ Boost starter-generator combines a starter and generator in a electric motor that is fitted between the engine and transmission. Intelligent charging via an electric auxiliary compressor and an exhaust gas turbocharger enhance the performance and driving dynamics, but also reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The GLE 53 accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. Other stuff? Fully variable all-wheel drive, 9-speed automatic transmission, AMG-specific drive programs and the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL based on AIRMATIC with electro-mechanical roll stabilization. The GLE 53 features the AMG-specific radiator grille and numerous options are available such as the selectable performance exhaust system and AMG steering wheel button controls. It won't be available until the end of 2020.
(Volvo/Polestar images)
Polestar will reveal its new Polestar 2 in Geneva. According to Polestar PR minions, the new all-electric fastback will bring avant-garde design, electric performance and a unique customer experience to the premium compact electric segment. Polestar 2 will have a price range starting at 39,900 euros. (For the first 12 months of production, guide price of the launch edition in the U.S. will be $63,000. This just in: electric cars ain't cheap.) The Polestar 2 is a premium five-door fastback based on the Volvo Car Group’s adaptable Compact Modular Architecture platform (CMA) featuring two electric motors and a 78 kWh battery capacity that will enable a targeted range of 500 km. The 27-module battery pack is integrated into the floor and contributes to the rigidity of the chassis as well as improves the car’s noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels – road noise has been reduced by 3.7 dB compared to a traditional chassis. The all-wheel drive electric powertrain in Polestar 2 produces 408HP (300 kW) and 487 lb-ft of torque (660 Nm). This translates to a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of less than 5 seconds, according to Polestar. The standard dynamic chassis can be enhanced by the Performance Pack that improves driving dynamics with Öhlins dampers, Brembo brakes and unique 20-inch forged wheels. Polestar’s signature gold seat belts, brake callipers and valve caps will complete the performance visuals. It will be available in the U.S. late next year.
Polestar will reveal its new Polestar 2 in Geneva. According to Polestar PR minions, the new all-electric fastback will bring avant-garde design, electric performance and a unique customer experience to the premium compact electric segment. Polestar 2 will have a price range starting at 39,900 euros. (For the first 12 months of production, guide price of the launch edition in the U.S. will be $63,000. This just in: electric cars ain't cheap.) The Polestar 2 is a premium five-door fastback based on the Volvo Car Group’s adaptable Compact Modular Architecture platform (CMA) featuring two electric motors and a 78 kWh battery capacity that will enable a targeted range of 500 km. The 27-module battery pack is integrated into the floor and contributes to the rigidity of the chassis as well as improves the car’s noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels – road noise has been reduced by 3.7 dB compared to a traditional chassis. The all-wheel drive electric powertrain in Polestar 2 produces 408HP (300 kW) and 487 lb-ft of torque (660 Nm). This translates to a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of less than 5 seconds, according to Polestar. The standard dynamic chassis can be enhanced by the Performance Pack that improves driving dynamics with Öhlins dampers, Brembo brakes and unique 20-inch forged wheels. Polestar’s signature gold seat belts, brake callipers and valve caps will complete the performance visuals. It will be available in the U.S. late next year.
(Audi images)
Audi is celebrating a ten-year run of its V10 engine with the Audi R8 V10 Decennium special edition. Available as a coupé and painted in exclusive Daytona Gray matte effect, the special Audi R8 features milled 20-inch wheels and the intake manifold also finished in matte bronze. The front spoiler, the side sills and the diffuser are painted in gloss black, supplemented by black Audi rings and badges on the exterior. The side blades and the exterior mirror housings are made from gloss carbon fiber. (There are other colors available too: Daytona Gray pearl effect; Suzuka Gray metallic; Floret Silver metallic; Mythos Black metallic; Ascari Blue metallic and Kemora Gray metallic.) The interior is finished entirely in black, with the inlays in gloss carbon fiber adding highlights. The quilted rhombus pattern stitching on the sport seats is finished in gloss black; the contrasting stitching in a gloss copper tone. There are a bunch of exclusive interior details as well. The naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 FSI has 620HP (456 kW) and maximum torque of 427.8 lb-ft (580 Nm). Zero to 62.1 mph comes in 3.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 205.7 mph. The Audi R8 V10 Decennium will be available from spring 2019 on and will cost 222.000 EUR in Germany, including an exclusive car cover with bronze-colored “Decennium” embroidery. Only 222 units will be sold. And you probably won't see one here.
Audi is celebrating a ten-year run of its V10 engine with the Audi R8 V10 Decennium special edition. Available as a coupé and painted in exclusive Daytona Gray matte effect, the special Audi R8 features milled 20-inch wheels and the intake manifold also finished in matte bronze. The front spoiler, the side sills and the diffuser are painted in gloss black, supplemented by black Audi rings and badges on the exterior. The side blades and the exterior mirror housings are made from gloss carbon fiber. (There are other colors available too: Daytona Gray pearl effect; Suzuka Gray metallic; Floret Silver metallic; Mythos Black metallic; Ascari Blue metallic and Kemora Gray metallic.) The interior is finished entirely in black, with the inlays in gloss carbon fiber adding highlights. The quilted rhombus pattern stitching on the sport seats is finished in gloss black; the contrasting stitching in a gloss copper tone. There are a bunch of exclusive interior details as well. The naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 FSI has 620HP (456 kW) and maximum torque of 427.8 lb-ft (580 Nm). Zero to 62.1 mph comes in 3.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 205.7 mph. The Audi R8 V10 Decennium will be available from spring 2019 on and will cost 222.000 EUR in Germany, including an exclusive car cover with bronze-colored “Decennium” embroidery. Only 222 units will be sold. And you probably won't see one here.
(Ferrari)
Ferrari has released a photo of the F8 Tributo ahead of the Geneva Motor Show. The new mid-rear-engined F8 Tributo "represents the highest expression of the company’s classic two-seater berlinetta," according to Ferrari PR minions. The name is an homage to both the model’s uncompromising layout and to the engine that powers it. With 710HP and a record specific power output of 185 cv/l, it is the most powerful V8 in Ferrari history for a non-special series car and sets the benchmark not just for turbos, but for engines across the board. The new car replaces the 488 GTB with improvements throughout, providing even better control on the limit, along with greater on-board comfort. The F8 Tributo has 49HP more than the car it replaces, is 88 lbs. lighter and benefits from a 10 percent improvement in aerodynamic efficiency along with the latest version of the Side Slip Angle Control, now in 6.1 guise. Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, Ferrari says that the F8 Tributo is essentially a bridge to a new design language that will continue to emphasize Ferrari’s key characteristics of high performance and extreme aerodynamic efficiency.
Ferrari has released a photo of the F8 Tributo ahead of the Geneva Motor Show. The new mid-rear-engined F8 Tributo "represents the highest expression of the company’s classic two-seater berlinetta," according to Ferrari PR minions. The name is an homage to both the model’s uncompromising layout and to the engine that powers it. With 710HP and a record specific power output of 185 cv/l, it is the most powerful V8 in Ferrari history for a non-special series car and sets the benchmark not just for turbos, but for engines across the board. The new car replaces the 488 GTB with improvements throughout, providing even better control on the limit, along with greater on-board comfort. The F8 Tributo has 49HP more than the car it replaces, is 88 lbs. lighter and benefits from a 10 percent improvement in aerodynamic efficiency along with the latest version of the Side Slip Angle Control, now in 6.1 guise. Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, Ferrari says that the F8 Tributo is essentially a bridge to a new design language that will continue to emphasize Ferrari’s key characteristics of high performance and extreme aerodynamic efficiency.
(Images courtesy of Emory Motorsports)
Emory Motorsports has unveiled its latest custom Porsche build, a novel mix of 356 and 911 technology. The result is a truly one-of-a-kind ride, pairing 911 performance with the quintessential 356 Emory Motorsports aesthetic. Commissioned by a client who wanted to drive to East Coast ski areas, the decision was made to artfully combine a 1964 Porsche 356C body with an all-wheel-drive 1990 911 (964) C4 chassis. The meticulous four-year build began by laser-scanning the 1964 body and the 1990 chassis.
Emory Motorsports has unveiled its latest custom Porsche build, a novel mix of 356 and 911 technology. The result is a truly one-of-a-kind ride, pairing 911 performance with the quintessential 356 Emory Motorsports aesthetic. Commissioned by a client who wanted to drive to East Coast ski areas, the decision was made to artfully combine a 1964 Porsche 356C body with an all-wheel-drive 1990 911 (964) C4 chassis. The meticulous four-year build began by laser-scanning the 1964 body and the 1990 chassis.
Emory Motorsports’ goal was to retain all of the original suspension pick-up points from the 911, but two challenges existed: the differences in wheelbase and rear track. The decision was made to retain the 356’s wheelbase, which required shortening the 911’s center tunnel. The 356’s steel body was then subtly widened to match the 911’s rear track. Adjustable KW coil-over shocks mate perfectly to the 911’s architecture and provide optimal ride quality and control.
For the powertrain, Emory Motorsports retained the C4’s G64 5-speed AWD manual gearbox. The driveline now incorporates a rally-style differential bias with independent front-to-rear and side-to-side manual torque control. The disc brakes are standard 964-issue. The custom 16x7 black powder-coated wheels are inspired by wheel designs from different eras. 205/60R16 Pirelli Ice Zeros give superior all-weather grip. The 356 C4S is powered by the proprietary Emory-Rothsport “Outlaw-4” engine. Rod Emory and renowned engine builder Jeff Gamroth of Rothsport Racing collaborated over the better part of a decade to create an original four-cylinder cast-aluminum block. The new engine incorporates the best features of three distinct iterations of the 911 powerplant. Dual Weber 48 IDA carburetors feed this twin-plug engine, rated at 200 horsepower. This 2.4-liter Outlaw-4 employs a crank-fire ignition, and exhaust flows through custom headers and a stainless-steel muffler.
The custom bodywork includes a widened rear section, a flattened hood with its handle deleted, a louvered deck lid, and body-colored rally lights. A competition fuel filler leads to an 18-gallon GT FuelSafe fuel cell. Body color is Graphite Blue Metallic (an OE 2016 Porsche color). Per the client’s request, the roof rack was conceived in CAD to accommodate carrying bikes, skis, or other gear. The one-off drip-rail clamps were 3-D printed in chemically pure titanium, then welded to the custom-fabricated rack by the car’s owner. His fabrication skills extend from his titanium bicycle manufacturing (Independent Fabrication, https://ifbikes.co
On the inside, the RS-style driver’s seat provides functional contrast to the Speedster-style passenger seat. A removable rollcage provides additional safety. Interior tactile interfaces include a MOMO Heritage steering wheel, a 911 shifter with Outlaw shift knob, and a Tilton pedal assembly. Total curb weight for this rally-inspired package is 2,150 pounds.
For more information on custom Porsche 356 Emory Outlaws and Emory Specials, you can go to EmoryMotorsports.com.