by Bruce and Bradley Hubbard
Auto Advisor Group
The Auto Channel
Exceptional performance and breathtaking dynamism coupled with the intense sensations of open-top driving: Audi presents the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. Its lightweight cloth top opens and closes fully automatically; several body parts are made of a carbon fiber composite material.
The V10 engine produces 525 hp and launches the open-top two-seater to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 194.49 mph. Featuring technologies such as the Audi Space Frame (ASF), quattro permanent all-wheel drive, full-LED headlights and with an innovative seatbelt microphone available as an option, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro is the new top-of-the-range Audi.
The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro makes a powerful statement. The sculptured lines of the emotion-packed, high-performance sports car are a fascinating and unique interpretation of its dynamism. Unlike the Coupé, the Spyder does not have sideblades behind the doors. The side panels and the large cover over the storage compartment for the cloth top are made of a carbon fiber composite. Two arched cowls, which extend to the spoiler lip and include large, integrated air vents, give the rear of the open-top two-seater a powerful profile.
Like every open-top Audi, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro has a cloth top – an uncompromising solution for a high-performance sports car. The soft top’s approximate weight is a mere 30 kilograms (66.14 lb); it thus keeps the vehicle’s total weight and center of gravity low. The top takes up little space when open and is a harmonious design element when closed. It tapers off to two slim fins extending to the trailing edge of the car, emphasizing the elongated silhouette.
The electrohydraulic soft top opens and closes in 19 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h (31.07 mph). When opened, it folds like a Z into its storage compartment over the V10 engine. The compartment cover opens and closes automatically. The heated glass window, which is separate from the cloth top, is lowered into the bulkhead. It can be independently raised and lowered at the press of a switch, with the top up or down. An additional net-like wind deflector comes standard and can be latched into the bulkhead behind the seats in two easy steps.
The top, which comprises an outer skin of a leakproof textile fabric and the headliner, is fully compatible with high-speed driving. When driving at moderate speeds with the top up, interior noise levels in the R8 Spyder are barely higher than in the Coupé. The bulkhead includes integrated rollover protection in the form of two strong, spring-tensioned plates. Head/thorax side bags in the backrests protect the passengers in the event of a side impact. Full-size airbags stand at the ready in the event of a head-on collision. In a rear-end collision, the integral head restraint system reduces the risk of whiplash injuries.
In the version with manual transmission, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro weighs only 1,720 kilograms thanks primarily to its aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) body. Despite reinforcements in the area of the sills, the center tunnel, the rear wall, the floor pan and the A- and B-pillars, the body weighs only 476.2 lb – just 13.23 lb more than that of the R8 Coupé. The high stiffness of the ASF body, which includes an integrated engine frame of ultra-lightweight magnesium, provides the foundation for the car’s dynamic handling and superior safety.
Close attention to detail: the design
Numerous details demonstrate that the Audi designers put their hearts into the design of the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. The air inlets in the nose, which direct air across the three radiators, and the lip of the front skirt are painted high-gloss black. The struts in the broad, low, single-frame grille are finely coated with chrome. The standard full-LED headlights are technical works of art. Their reflectors resemble open mussel shells; the daytime running lights appear to be a homogeneous strip, but actually comprise 24 individual LEDs that form a curve at the lower edge of the headlight.
The full-LED headlights from Audi are unmatched by its international competitors. Light-emitting diodes are used for the low beams, the high beams, the daytime running lights and the turn signals. With a color temperature of 6,000 Kelvin, the LED light is very similar to daylight, making it easier on the eyes when driving at night. Additional strengths include excellent light distribution, long service life and extremely low energy consumption.
The side sills of the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro are broad and angular. V10 badges on the flanks allude to the power of the engine. A dark surface between the rear lights emphasizes the car’s width. The chambers of the lights are colored dark red, with LEDs generating a three-dimensional light pattern. The exhaust system ends in two large, oval tailpipes, and the fully lined underbody ends in an upturned diffuser. The rear spoiler extends automatically at higher speeds.
Audi offers the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro with a choice of three colors for the top. The body is available in eleven paint finishes, with metallic and pearl effect finishes standard. The windshield frame is coated with anodized aluminum.
Sporty luxury: the interior
The open-top two-seater from Audi features a generously spacious interior. The three-spoke leather multifunction sport steering wheel is flattened at the bottom as in a race car, and the low-mounted, electrically adjustable seats guide and support the body perfectly.
Quality of fit and finish is extraordinary and the controls are clear and logical. The standard driver information system includes a lap timer for recording lap times. The instruments and the gear lever knob feature red rings. The pedals, the footrests and the shift paddles of the optional R tronic are in aluminum look. Highlighting the list of standard equipment is a generous full-leather package featuring Fine Nappa leather, an excellent sound system from Bang & Olufsen, a deluxe automatic air conditioning system and heated seats. Six different interior colors are available.
The status of the Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI Quattro not only comes from the design on the exterior. The Audi brand has always been awarded design award for the interiors. One reason is the exquisite aluminum finished dash and doorsills. Add the leather for the seats are superb. The seats are colored with pigments that reflect the infrared component of sunlight, which keeps the seats up to 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) cooler.
Doorsill strips coated with aluminum and adorned with black satin finish applications impart an air of luxurious spottiness. Three storage compartments are integrated into the rear bulkhead, one of which contains the optional CD changer or Audi music interface, if desired. There is a front compartment for 3.53 cu ft of luggage.
The latest version of the navigation system plus with MMI operating logic is also standard in the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. It features higher resolution and particularly fast route calculation. The system’s most visible new feature is the high-resolution, 6.5-inch display. The topographic view can be scrolled in any direction. The system can be combined optionally with a rearview camera that serves as a parking aid.
Audi offers custom extras, such as exclusive leather packages and special inlays. A worldwide first is the optional seatbelt microphone for the hands-free unit, which makes it possible to talk on the phone even with the top down on the highway. Three small, flat microphones are integrated into both seatbelts.
The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro, which was developed in cooperation with quattro GmbH, dazzles with uncompromising performance. The V10 engine with the aluminum crankcase, much of which is hand-built, follows in the grand motor sports tradition at Audi. The normally aspirated engine produces 390.91 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm. Peak output of 525 hp is reached at 8,000 rpm, and the rev limit is not reached until 8,700 rpm. Specific power output is 100.9 hp per liter of displacement.
Performance reflects this awesome potential: 0 – 62.14 mph) in 4.1 seconds; 0 – 124.27 mph in 12.7 seconds; top speed is 194.49 mph with the six-speed manual transmission. As load and revs increase, the engine unfolds the rich, unmistakable
The 5.2-liter engine features FSI direct fuel injection. The high 12.5:1 compression ratio contributes to the high performance and good fuel efficiency. Equipped with a manual transmission, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro consumes an average of 15.79 US mpg. With R tronic, this figure improves to 16.92 US mpg. Dry sump lubrication, another motor sports technology, ensures that the supply of oil is maintained even at the maximum lateral acceleration of 1.2 g.
The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI is also available with an optional automatic six-speed transmission. The R tronic offers a normal and a sport program as well as a fully automatic and a manual mode. The manual mode allows the driver to make lightning-fast gear changes using the joystick on the center tunnel or with the paddles on the steering wheel. The open-air sports car also comes with “Launch Control” – a program that manages engagement of the clutch perfectly to maximize acceleration at start.
The quattro permanent all-wheel drive features a central viscous coupling and distributes power to all four wheels with a heavy rear bias. It works together with the locking differential on the rear axle to provide significantly greater traction, stability, cornering speed and precision. It is the superior technology – in particular for a high-performance sports car.
The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro has a 8.69-foot wheelbase and a 43:57 axle load distribution. Double triangle wishbone all aluminum suspension is was designed to reduce weight and unsprung weight for better handling copied from the best Audi racecars.
The chassis is tuned for good comfort, thanks in part to standard Audi magnetic ride technology. We first experienced this with GM’s Corvette with their magnaride. This uses magnetic fields in the shock absorbers to adjust their response to road conditions within milliseconds and adapt to the driver’s style. It is fantastic! Audi does offer as an option the sports suspension with conventional shock absorbers.
The R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro has superb rubber and rims- of course. The 19-inch wheels and 10-spoke Y design rims as seen in the photos are gorgeous. . The front rims have 235/35 tires, with 295/30 tires at the back. 305/30 tires are optionally available. The brakes offer impressive performance: The four discs are internally ventilated and perforated, with eight-piston calipers up front and four-piston calipers at the back. Optionally available from Audi are oversized carbon fiber-ceramic discs that are extremely lightweight, robust and long-lived. Like on the new SLS Gullwing from Mercedes these Carbon fiber brakes not only are expensive but also are noisy. But yes they do stop exceptionally well! The ESP stabilization system has a Sport mode and can also be completely deactivated. The brake system includes an assist function that facilitates starting on gradients.
The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro is built by quattro GmbH at the Neckarsulm plant. The vehicle, including the ASF, is largely hand- built. The open-top two-seater will be launched in Germany in the first quarter of 2010. Its base price will be 156,400 euros or in US dollars nearly $220,000.00. This will be an exclusive vehicle for the few that are able to purchase it. Audi impresses us continually with their magnificent vehicles.
Article Originally seen on TheAutoChannel.com
By Bruce Hubbard
Auto Advisor Group
Lincoln was Henry Leland’s dream in 1921. The cost of his vision was too high for the market and his company was taken over by Henry Ford for 8 million dollars. Henry Ford and his son Edsel took the dream of luxury and performance to heights that few automakers were able to do.
Today, William Clay Ford Jr. has decided that Lincoln and Ford will be Green and reduce CO2 gases. He also took great strides to have the engineers at Ford develop as Edsel Ford did the best designs. He does not want to put diesel cars into the US market, yet. I feel that this is a major mistake. Ford and the company are on a roll and eventually they will see that what they are already doing in Taiwan, Europe and other parts of the world needs to be brought to the USA.
Quality, fit and finish in the 2010 Lincoln MKT are exactly what Henry Leland would have demanded in 1921. Perhaps equaling the most impressive Lincoln cars of the 1930's when elegant bodies housed the superb V 12 engine. Later Edsel Ford took the design team and even produced more style into the Lincoln Brand. In 1936 Edsel B. Ford produced the Zephyr and later the famed Continental.
The Ford designer that took a piece of paper and designed the new 2010 MKT is no longer with Ford. Peter Horbury went back to Volvo where he had previously worked. I remember when he was in Miami with our Southern Automotive Group a few years back to introduce the Ford Flex. The Ford Flex and our Lincoln MKT share the same frame, have the same wheel base, engine and other amenities. Standard models of each do not offer the upgraded suspension that comes with Eco Boost is the Flex or MKT. Peter Horbury’s inspiration with the Ford Flex and the other Lincoln vehicles continues at Ford design and I expect that all the new designers will try to even do better than Peter. The future of Ford Motor Car looks good if the team keeps making new vehicles as fine as the Mks , MK Ultra, MC5, MKZ and MKT.
“We’re growing Lincoln’s product portfolio with a full-size crossover that offers more of everything luxury buyers want today – including more variety,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas.
I drove the high end 2010 Lincoln MKT on some of the most challenging roads of the great Northeast. The Lincoln four door, seven passenger MKT with the optional all wheel drive system and their magnificent V6 EcoBoost engine.
The Lincoln MKT is just a bit over 207 inches. Looks large but drives more like a car thanks to the Lincoln having the car like chassis that so many crossovers now have.
Standard on every Lincoln MKT is the brand’s signature design – complete with a split waterfall grille, a beveled chamfer along the vehicle’s shoulder line, a flowing cantrail that frames the greenhouse and full-width horizontal taillamps that span the subtly curved weight-saving magnesium liftgate that adds visual character while protecting generous rear cargo space.
The standard 2010 Lincoln MKT front wheel drive model offers a standard 3.7 liter V6 that delivers 268 horses but is not equal to the fuel efficient 3.5 liter V6 EcoBoost. In all wheel drive add a few more thousands and look at a figure approaching $50,000. The test vehicle was the all wheel driver version of the 2010 MKT that adds around $4000.00 to the sticker price. For the $4000 you also voice activation on navigation system and a top end THX surround sound system. In addition the Blind Spot monitoring system is included.
The fuel economy is better than the large Lincoln Navigator which I love. 16 miles per gallon in the city and on the highway Lincoln states 22 miles per gallon.
The EcoBoost engine produces 355 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque.. Its tremendous low-end torque provides smooth power on demand, as well as excellent launch and acceleration. This advanced engine delivers a class-leading estimated 355 horsepower at 5,700 RPM, while generating 350 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,500 RPM. Bosch systems are one reason the EcoBoost is here today. Their knowledge of direct injection and turbo charging has improved performance and fuel economy in gasoline and diesel engines. The Ford EcoBoost engine has received awards and raves from the press and the first customers who have purchased the big and bold Lincoln MKT.
Getting into the Lincoln MKT is easy with the four doors as is seen here.
Behind the wheel is impressive in the MKT. It is what you would expect in a high end Crossover/SUV. Superb seating with a great steering wheel that has all controls at your fingers. If you have activated the Gates Microsoft voice system you can do most of the same demands by merely speaking to the navigation system.
Voice-Activated Navigation System with Integrated SIRIUS Travel Link SIRIUS offers both SIRIUS Satellite Radio with more than 130 channels of music, news, sports and more, and integrated SIRIUS Travel Link™ with the available Navigation System. And right now, both come with an introductory six-month subscription. Travel Link provides real-time traffic information, current and forecast national weather information, gas prices and stations, live sports scores and schedules, and movie times with theater locations.* On top of all that, it has a 10GB hard drive so you can store approximately 2,400 songs. Browse your music with your fingertips on the touch screen or use voice activation to play back a track. *Real-time traffic monitoring
The steering wheel also controls the adaptive HID headlamps. This to me is another safety feature Lincoln has offered to their customers. On the mountain passes of Pennsylvania the lights followed the direction I turned. The steering wheel moves the lights to follow the path you travel. In addition steering is now electric in many of Ford and Lincoln vehicles saving the customer fuel at the pump.
Blind Spot or BLISS uses two multiple beam radar modules, which are packaged in the rear quarter panels. The radar detects moving objects within a 65-foot range from either side of the vehicle. The radar identifies when a vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone and illuminates an indicator light on the corresponding side-view mirror providing a warning that a vehicle is approaching. An audible alert is sounded as well.
On the 2010 Lincoln MKT also had another great safety system.That was their adaptive cruise control and collision warning system.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning with Brake Support uses radar to detect moving vehicles directly ahead. When the danger of a collision is detected, the system warns the driver with an authoritative beep and a red warning light projected on the windshield above the instrument panel. The system also automatically pre-charges brakes and engages a brake-assist feature that helps drivers quickly reach maximum braking once the brakes are engaged.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning with Brake Support offers three programmable alert settings ranging from approximately 1.5 seconds to 2.5 seconds.
“It depends on the user’s preference, because one person’s false alarm may be another person’s near miss, and it's important that drivers are comfortable with the system,” said Tom Pilutti, technical expert, Ford Research and Advanced Engineering. “Some people have a slower reaction time, and the longer time setting may meet their needs better than the shorter setting. Our research shows that most drivers will prefer and feel more comfortable with the longer default setting.”
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, forward collision warning systems like Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning with Brake Support have the potential to help prevent the kind of rear-end crashes that occurred 2.3 million times per year from 2002-2006 – almost 40 percent of the total crashes reported to police each year in the U.S.
The side air bags and safety canopy are a plus in the 2010 Lincoln MKT. It uses two multiple beam radar modules, which are packaged in the rear quarter panels. The radar detects moving objects within a 65-foot range from either side of the vehicle. The radar identifies when a vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone and illuminates an indicator light on the corresponding side-view mirror providing a warning that a vehicle is approaching. An audible alert is sounded as well. In addition every MKT has Ford’s dynamic stability control system and roll over security system. Add this with the front and rear independent suspension along with the optional all wheel drive system and on slippery surfaces the big Lincoln MKT keeps moving in a straight line.
A new rear suspension system features a “one for one” shock absorber ratio. The resulting linear response gave the engineering team a stable base line for suspension tuning, allowing better balance between responsive handling and control as well as a smooth ride. It also improves rear suspension isolation and enables the use of 20-inch wheels.
A feature that may be considered a safety feature to many is the park assist that will assist you in tough parallel parking. I need this? But, it activates easily by merely pushing a button. In the future you will be able to talk to it. Sure Lexus was first with this technology but Ford and Lincoln have a new and even better system for park assist.. Superb system that will get you into the parking space and not allow you to ding the wonderful alloy wheels on the Lincoln MKT. This innovative Lincoln-exclusive technology employs an ultrasonic-based sensing system, as opposed to video camera-reliant competitive offerings, making hands-free parallel parking a breeze. Active Park Assist is also the first system to operate in uphill parking situations.
The MKT also has a back up camera that lets you know what is behind you. I also like it when trailering. I can back up the MKT to hitch and get it to the perfect spot to attach the trailer. I have done this alone with no problems at all! Of course you must add to the sticker the trailering package from Bosch which includes a superb trailer hitch and sway control for safety in trailering you boat or PWC on the highway. However, the vehicle I tested indicated I could only tow 4500 pounds. That is actually lower than the competition? With the diesel competition they tow a lot more. Or the V8 engines from GM and Dodge towing capacity is higher.
The Lincoln MKT third row is not bad for short trips. Seats are comfortable but leg room is tight. The third row seats can be folded electrically thanks to buttons located by the rear hatch to fold the seats to a flat position which increases cargo capacity. Wonderful system. I need the cargo space. With the seats folded the cargo space is nearly 76 cubic feet!
Access to the rear cargo space is also made easy with the key fog. Merely push a button and it lifts up. Closing is just as simple with the same key fob or a button to allow it to close. However, if you do wish to sit in the third row it is darn good. Comfort but limited leg room. The opera style seating allows for view throughout equal to a greenhouse!
The Lincoln MKS and MKT deliver the power and torque of a V-8 engine with the fuel efficiency of a V-6. Thanks to Bosch with their gasoline direct injection Ford has been able to downsize and boost the power of their engines. As with the MKT line of new SUV’s the engines are traditional gasoline except for the turbocharged EcoBoost MKT. Technology Enablers: In addition to this family of new gasoline turbo-charged direct injection engines – and as part of the company’s near- and mid-term plans – Ford will introduce a portfolio of technologies to achieve even greater fuel savings and emissions reductions.
A new generation of fuel-saving twin-clutch transmissions, which deliver the fuel economy of a manual with the convenience of an automatic. These new transmissions include greater use of 6-speeds to replace less-efficient 4- and 5-speed gearboxes. This advanced gearbox offers the driver a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control.
In addition, paddle shifters are integrated into the steering wheel spokes. Intuitive to operate, a squeeze back on either paddle will deliver an upshift, while a gentle push forward on either paddle will induce a “matched-rev” downshift.
This capability makes the Lincoln MKT driving experience sporty, yet smooth. Unlike other competitive transmissions, SelectShift won’t “second guess” the driver with an override shift. With SelectShift, manual control is truly manually controlled.
During the next five years other EcoBoost engines will be sold world wide, Ford expects to introduce a range of gasoline turbo-charged direct injection engines in 4-cylinder and V-6 configuration in a significant number of vehicles globally.
In the Lincoln products the performance of the EcoBoost V 6 comes in from low 1500 rpm’s to 3000 rpms giving the feeling of a diesel (almost).
Other computer software has been advertised as a plus from Microsoft. The SYNC is a success and of course offered on every Ford and Lincoln vehicle. Bill Gates overlooks the Ford account as his own and has recently even come up with new voice activation for the upcoming F250 Diesel Trucks.
Sync effectively combines the car with a user’s cellular phone and portable music device, This includes cassette, CD players, DVD players, satellite radio, digital audio and video, text messaging, ring tones, games, navigation systems, e-mail, and others. There’s also telematics, such as roadside assistance or concierge services.
I drove the all wheel drive version of the Lincoln MKT and prefer that for North or Southern driving over the base 2 wheel drive sytem. The 2 wheel driver version is available well equipped for around $44,000. US dollars.
The competition from domestics like Jeep Commander and Buick Enclave offer quite a savings when you get the check book out. They too are wonderful vehicles to consider. The Jeep Commander has been proven over four years of hard work at our studio. The tow package we have with the Jeep Commander equals that sold as an option on the Lincoln MKT.
The Lincoln MKT has one of the newest six speed automatic transmissions with dual clutch that helps deliver better fuel economy. With the manual mode operational I was able to traverse the mountain ranges selecting the gear I wanted. With six speeds I found that third and forth with the powerful Eco Boost worked well. I Found that less braking was needed as I descended from the higher mountain roads than if I had kept it in drive mode.
This transmission was an upgrade to the successful 6F-50 transmission, the 6F-55 is dedicated solely to the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine and incorporates a number of component and calibration upgrades that help guarantee every bit of torque produced by the twin-turbocharged V-6 is seamlessly transmitted, giving customers that V-8-like performance they love, as well as the fuel economy they demand.
“Adapting the 6F architecture to the EcoBoost engine demanded a close look at every component, piece of hardware, and calibration measure to ensure that this transmission could answer the needs of a higher output engine; help, not hinder, fuel economy; and meet Ford’s strict durability standards,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Global Powertrain Engineering.
Diesel Power in the Lincoln MKT?
You know with the new diesel Ford will be putting in the F 250 and higher “commercial” models they could easily drop one it into the Navigator or the MKT? Why not. They brought over their best engineers from Europe to work on code name “Scorpion” engine. This had to be the best. It had to meet all US standards and beat the competition. Back a few years ago PSA Peugeot Citroen worked with the Blue Oval to drop a new high performance diesel into the Range Rover.
Ford sells the second most number of diesels in Europe. Even Bill Ford Jr has stated they can bring the expertise to the North American market with out a problem. When I want to know? With systems from the Bosch group Ford built a superb DIESEL engine. Borg Warner and others applaud what Audi, VW, Mercedes Benz and BMW have done with diesels in the US market. Not trucks but small cars, SUV’s and Crossovers.
Tim Manganello, chairman and CEO of BorgWarner Inc., notes diesel engines provide 30% better fuel economy than their gasoline counterparts, as well as 25% fewer emissions and 50% greater torque. Ford states they want to be green. This would help.
“The problem is there aren’t many choices in the U.S.,” says Manganello, whose company supplies auto makers with parts for diesel engines. “But the Europeans are changing that.” BMW AG, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen AG all sell diesels in the U.S. VW’s Jetta TDI has won several green awards, as well as a Ward’s 10 Best Engines nod.
Just a few years ago Wolfgang Hatz of VW/Audi stated that diesels did not make sense for the US market for they were not exciting. Twenty years later VW and others use Turbo Diesel Injection to make Diesels exciting. Hatz states what I believe today that few people even realize they are driving a diesel. No more smoke or smell. And as I have found in so many diesel cars and crossovers they are quiet.
Inside the cabin it is all Lincoln. Sure the splendor of leather is abundant. Then add the wood trim. Certainly not a cheap version. They did it all including letting you have cooled or heated seats! Not just in the front but in the second row too! If you purchase the entertainment system the head rests have large screens in them for viewing.
One amenity I insist upon is a moon/sunrrof and the MKT has a superb system that is very large. This allows front row and the second row passengers sun and fresh air. Customers get a standard fixed glass Panoramic Vista Roof with power-assisted front and rear sunshades – or the available Power Panoramic VistaT roof . T love the later and that was in our test vehicle.
Lincoln stands at the front of a crowded pack of wonderful crossover gasoline vehicles. Time will tell if it is a winner. Residual value is not yet known and will take some time to determine.
The 2010 Lincoln MKT photos I took show that nothing has been overlooked by the Lincoln Mercury engineering and design team. The vehicle is a star performer and all the amenities make it a winner in my mind. The MKT competes with some very impressive entries including the Audi Q7, the ACURA MDX, BMW’s X5 , the Mercedes Benz GL and R class, Jeep Commander Limited, Buick Enclave and the Volvo XC90. However, unlike the competition the Lincoln MKT is not offered in a diesel as is the Audi, VW, BMW, and Mercedes products.
Certainly the MKT will turn heads and make some serious dollars for Ford and Lincoln.
Article Originally seen on TheAutoChannel.com
By Bruce Hubbard
Auto Advisor Group
The Range Rover is one of the few vehicles ever displayed as a piece of art at the Louvre They have traveled a long way since first known as the utilitarian means of transportation in the African outback. .Land Rover has made the entire lineup of vehicles luxurious and just what the privileged want today.
Whether in Palm Beach or South Beach Range Rovers are seen with celebrities and professional sport athletes. They will definitely look great in the fine art of Range Rover and the RRS will surely drive well on the streets and highway. Most likely few celebrities will ever take the Range Rover LR4 or Range Rover Sport off road. That is where the Range Rover Sport is in a class by themselves. The RRS delivers 461 Foot pounds of off the line or pulling power known as torque! 510 horsepower! competing luxury SUVs like the X5/X5 M, Infiniti FX50 and Porsche Cayenne .The Range Rover Sport’s power can be used on and off road to make the drive exceptional.. So many innovations are on the 2010 Range Rover Sport that we have enumerated some of them to allow you to know why I think the Range Rover Sport is one of the best vehicles ever made. The Range Rover Sport was first introduced in 2005 and has each year been refined. They are the only SUV offering for 2010 the superb air suspension that allows you to raise and lower the vehicle 2.1 inches. It makes traversing the most difficult terrain easy.
The 2010 Range Rover Sport is a midsize SUV available in HSE and Supercharged trim levels. The Range Rover Sport HSE comes standard with 19-inch wheels, a sunroof, bi-xenon headlights, foglights, auto-dimming rearview mirrors, an adjustable air suspension and adaptive damping, keyless entry/ignition, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control, power front seats, driver memory settings, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, leather upholstery, wood interior trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a navigation system with off-road tracking, a rearview camera and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon Logic 7 stereo with a six-CD changer, an auxiliary audio jack, USB port and separate iPod connection.
The newest art work I drove for a week was the Supercharged version of the 2010 Range Rover Sport that retains some of the signature design. The MSRP pricing on the supercharged 2010 RANGE ROVER SPORT was $82,345.00. Worth every dime! The new features alone add value. This is a vehicle you can depend on and be sure you can get off road in Moab or the desert of Arizona. Base price was $73.345.00 but add enhanced leather for $1000, Adaptive Cruise $2000, 5 camera system $800, rear differential lock $600, HD radio $ 350, rear seat entertainment $2500, and upgraded 20” alloy wheels for $1000. Other options and accessories are also available for the customer.
The new design theme for the 2010 Range Rover Sport emphasises its position as the most dynamic model in the Land Rover range, creating a sporting, cleaner and more sculpted appearance.
At the front, new signature LED headlamps provide a technical focal point, and feature Range Rover inspired interlocking circle lamps. With a new two-bar grille and larger air intake, the vehicle’s frontal graphic is much more slim, athletic and low-slung.
The new front bumper blends with redesigned front fenders to form a simple, sculpted surface, offering improved aerodynamics and a lower, more
The side view of the vehicle features new two-stripe LED indicators, along with redesigned two-section fender vents. Color coded door mirrors complete the visual changes.
At the rear, Range Rover inspired light clusters create a fresh new look, while the smooth and sculpted bumper design mirrors the style of the front-end.
New front wheel deflectors help reduce drag and new 19 and 20-inch tires are available on Range Rover Sport, optimized for rolling resistance and improved tire wear. What I also like as is seen in one of the photos in this article is that Range Rover Sport also has under the frame a full size spare with the same rim I am driving on. When 200 miles from a Land Rover Dealer or service center and the rim is damages or tire ripped you are dead without a spare. So many SUV’S do not offer a full size spare and rim. They often offer only an air inflator system good for only 50 miles. Others offer a small donut good again for 50 miles. Manufacturers state they have road size assistance or their customers have through their insurance companies road size assistance that will assist when you have a flat tire.
Range Rover Sport Supercharged has fuel ratings of 12 mpg in the city and 17 on the highway. It is a gas guzzler for sure and as stated by Tata and Range Rover staff they will improve that. Remember this is the premium SUV with 461 foot pounds of torque and 510 horsepower. If you look closely the fuel consumption is less than I would expect.
Superbly crafted new materials and some revolutionary display technologies help to improve a cabin that is already widely regarded as one of the automotive worlds finest. Of course heated front and rear seats are on the RANGE ROVERS. Heated front windshield and rear window. The heated front windshield is a plus on those ice and snowy winter days. Range Rover Sport must be able to move in the depths of winter and this heated front windshield removes ice and snow quickly. Heated adaptive headlamps make so much sense for the snow and ice that accumulates on the glass is wisked away by heated fluids allowing for the road to be lighted properly. This is a safety feature as far as I am concerned! I love the adaptive headlamps that include automatic adjustments of low and high beams . When in mountain passes or dark roads the headlamps are superb.
Voice control for navigation and sound system take some time to learn but make your driving experience very safe. That is because you are hands free to concentrate on driving once all commands are in place. The sound system is of course top end and the optional entertainment system for second row passengers makes the journey even better. If the weather is warm and the sky bright and sunny open the beautiful sun roof and enjoy the outside air moving through the cabin.
To further enhance the premium interior ambience, the 2010 Range Rover introduces new luxury grade European leather trim for the headlining, pillar and door casings. Fascia buttons now feature a satin chrome-plated finish, which are beautifully highlighted by the Range Rover’s upgraded waterfall interior lighting. High quality satin black and natural wood finishes complete the sumptuous feel of the interior architecture.
The Range Rover Sport allows the driver, front passenger and now thanks to rear elevated seats a commanding view of the road. The elevating of the second row did take an inch or more off of the head room. So those 6 foot 2 or above take the front seat.
With the second row seats up the cargo space was the same as the previous model of the Range Rover Sport 71 cubic feet. That is about what it is with the competitors I listed.
One of the major innovations in the 2010 Range Rover is found in the instrument cluster. Here, traditional physical instruments are replaced by a 12” Thin Film Transistor screen which presents all essential driver information via cleverly designed ‘virtual’ dials and graphical displays.
“The new display technology used by the 2010 Range Rover is a major advance. It gives us tremendous flexibility in presenting information, so that the driver gets precisely the data they require, in all driving conditions,” explains Nick Rogers, Chief Engineer, New Vehicle Architecture. The system’s message center (the area between rev counter and speedometer) can be customized by the driver to display personal prioritized information, from system warnings, outside temperature and vehicle information to less critical data such as audio and telephone displays.
The message center also relays off-road information, such as steering angle, wheel articulation, suspension settings and Terrain Response™ settings.
Fingertip control of settings and menus on the TFT screen is provided by an updated steering wheel which incorporates a five-way controller.
A new hard-drive navigation system provides faster route calculation, larger area map coverage and improved reliability. The navigation system adopts an improved navigation structure which now also features ‘towards guidance’. This supplements the junction map and icon-based information with details of the actual road signage viewed by the driver along the route.
The off road capabilities have been improved. I was able hit the fire trails of Northern Michigan and run through streams, swamps, and traverse the largest logs in the Northern timber country. In addition on Lake Michigan Beaches the new “sand Launch” worked just as described by Ranger Rover. The ability to get over much of the terrain goes to the fact that the hydroformed frame can be lifted by the air suspension so that you can rock climb. To help in navigating my r off-road adventure the new five camera system viewed on the large navigation screen lets you see what you are climbing over. Helps keep you away from dangerous rocks or large logs. The cameras are amazing. The cameras show you 360 degree view of the Range Rover Sport through 5 digital cameras.
Inside is all British and has been enhanced with some of BMW and Ford Motor inspirations. Of course now the Tata automotive group owns the Range Rover and Jaguar line. They are excited about the lineup of wonderful vehicles. Frank Duuerer said that the company is doing everything to make the fuel guzzler get better mileage. Already in Europe they are using the stop/start mode. In Europe the superb diesel engines are sold in the LR2 and do offer better fuel economy.
One amazing thing was that Jaguar and Range Rover got together and built the finest engine ever. Both V8’s and one base model and one supercharged. The first time engines have been designed from the onset with the requirements of both brands in mind. Shared primary objectives included the highest possible torque and fast response from low revs.
One of the key features of the new LR-V8 is an industry first, centrally-mounted, multi-hole, spray-guided fuel injection system, delivering fuel at a pressure of up to 150bar (2,175 psi) directly to the cylinder. The positioning of the injectors ensures fuel is precisely delivered to the center of the combustion chamber, maximizing air-fuel mixing, and improving combustion control.
Fuel is delivered by twin, high-pressure fuel pumps driven via an auxiliary shaft in the all-new engine block. Delivery of fuel direct to the cylinder has substantially contributed to improved low speed, dynamic response that is particularly useful off-road while adding to driving pleasure on-road. The charge cooling effects of the direct injection fuel system have allowed the compression ratio of the naturally aspirated engine to be raised to 11.5:1, further improving the engine efficiency.
A sixth generation, Eaton™ twin vortex system (TVS) supercharger is fitted to the 510 bhp engine. A compact Roots-type unit, it feeds air through twin intercoolers, which in turn are water-cooled by their own cooling circuit. The high helix rotor design both improves the supercharger thermodynamic efficiency and improves noise quality to the point where the unit is virtually inaudible. The intercoolers reduce the temperature of the pressurized intake-air and so optimize power.
Complementing VCT and CPS on the naturally aspirated LR-V8 is a new variable inlet manifold (VIM), which can vary the length of its eight inlet tracts to optimize power and torque throughout the rev range. As a consequence, the engine can develop the maximum possible low-end torque yet breath well enough to develop the maximum possible power at high rpm.
The new LR-V8 engines are built around a stiff, all new, aluminum block with cast-in iron liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps, to reduce noise, vibration and harshness. For the first time at Land Rover, the blocks are high pressure die-cast rather than sand-cast, providing a superior finish and dimensional greater accuracy. The engines also have aluminum heads, with four-valves per cylinder and strong, spheroidal-graphite cast-iron crankshafts and steel connecting rods. The cylinder heads and blocks are manufactured using recycled aluminum alloy for the first time, thus reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing the new engine.
The 2010 Range Rover’s new engines are mated to the revised and super-smooth ZF HP28 6-speed automatic transmission. Its characteristics have been optimized by Land Rover engineers to provide rapid and refined shifts. The dramatic enhancement of both power and torque low down the rev range on the new engines have made it possible to actuate the transmission’s lock-up clutch much earlier in each gear, reducing slip through the hydraulic torque converter, so helping with the improvements in both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
The transmission features an intelligent sport mode, which can sense and adapt transmission characteristics to particular driving styles.
The 2010 Range Rover has an advanced new Adaptive Dynamics system, which further improves the Range Rover’s peerless ride quality with greater refinement and superior body control.
A refinement to the dynamic stability control system helps automatically slow the vehicle if taking a corner too fast, thus enhancing driver control.
The system operates according to steering inputs from the driver. In extreme cases, automatic braking intervenes to help reduce the vehicle speed, with the braking pressure level applied according to the steering inputs.
This feature is complemented by the new Roll Stability Control system, which is designed to intervene in the unlikely case of an extreme situation in which the possible onset of a rollover is detected. In such situations, the system is designed to take over and perform very rapid, wheel specific braking, to help reduce speed and marginally widen the cornering radius.
In more extreme cases the system is designed to initiate marginal under steer by sharply increasing brake force on the outer wheels, again widening the
When the driver selects the new Dynamic program, the Terrain Response™ system tailors the vehicles chassis and power train settings to deliver a more sporting and responsive driving experience. Tighter body control and quicker steering responses are achieved by adjustments to the Adaptive Dynamics system, while the accelerator pedal mapping, dynamic stability control system and gear-change settings are also given more sporting characteristics.
The Dynamic program has also been specially tuned to take advantage of chassis changes to the supercharged model, which is designed to deliver improved driver confidence at higher speeds. The changes include a 20% stiffer rear roll control bar, and further revisions to the steering system, suspension bushings and wheel alignment settings.
These improvements are obvious when behind the wheel of the 2010 Range Rover Sport. The steering is precise, the road feel is not harsh and the interior noise is minimal. The large Sport is unique in the market today. It is the only SUV that has standard air suspension giving the Range Rover abilities to traverse back roads, snow, climb steep hills and even off road areas because it can raise or lower 2.1 inches with the pushing of the controls.
Stopping power has been improved on the 2010 Range Rover Sport Supercharged model thanks to braking system from Brembo™. This system employs 15-inch (380mm) ventilated front discs with unique lightweight aluminum six-piston opposed action monoblock calipers. 14.3-inch (365mm) ventilated discs with single-piston sliding calipers are fitted at the rear.
The RRS I drove had the Adaptive Cruise Package which includes a new Advanced Emergency Brake Assist system, which is designed to detect the driver’s responses to a potential emergency situation.
Working in conjunction with the Forward Alert System’s radar, Advanced Emergency Brake Assist primes the vehicle’s braking system, and even initiates braking in extreme circumstances if a collision is judged possible. Valuable improvements in braking distances have been recorded in the testing of this system.
Terrain Response system from Range Rover has been improved for 2010. The system can now even help you traverse sand on beaches or desert. That is one area where many off roaders get caught. When you stop on sand and sink often the frame sinks to the sand and you cannot move! But now with the Range Rover Sport use 'sand launch control' has now been introduced, which makes for noticeably easier drive-away. New, speed-dependent wheel-slip targets for the traction control system permit only very limited initial wheel-slip, helping to prevent the wheels digging down into the sand. New, speed-dependent wheel-slip targets for the traction control system permit only very limited initial wheel-slip, helping to prevent the wheels digging down into the sand.
But as I discussed with Scott Shorr and Frank Dauerer at Range Rover I have been stuck with every vehicle including the Range Rovers. When I was in deep snow where the entire frame sank into the deep snow I was stuck.. Thanks to the optional winch sold by Range Rover I could pull myself out. The same has happened with me in soft sand. I am pleased with the new system that Range Rover offers. It gives me assurance that I can go to areas that are difficult to traverse in confidence. The system works and would be one reason if I was a serious off roader to only have the Range Rover. It works, but I still carry a lot of tools including winches, chain falls, and even screen.
Another new feature for Range Rover is a revision to the rock crawl program improves brake and traction control response times, helping to reduce the wheels rolling in an unintended direction when traversing boulders, and giving a more composed drive through rocky terrain. Add the ability that you can raise or lower the Range Rover’s height above the ground with the air suspension is a real plus. Making sure that the Range Rover Sport is not hitting rocks or the frame the 360 degrees, five camera system allows you to view what you are going over in the Sport. Simply amazing! As stated with towing assist the cameras can be zoomed in for even more assist. The Range Rover Sport is simply the best off road vehicle made in 2010!
Many vehicles now offer hill descent control systems. Range Rover’s is improved and includes the new Gradient Release Control. This inhibits the initial rate of acceleration for descending very steep inclines, to increase control when braking is released at extreme angles.
The 2010 Range Rover like Volvo XC60, Ford F 150 and others offer trailer tow sway controls. This is becoming standard thanks to firms like Bosch. The trailer sway system keeps the trailer from getting out of control.
If you use the backup cameras you can get the trailer in place easily, which is another advantage of back up camera systems. It features five digital cameras which relay a near 360-degree view to the touch-screen display. The optional towing assist system that works in conjunction with the optional surround camera. The cameras function immediately as the vehicle is started, and have options for selecting and zooming in to assist with close quarter parking and with towing. The patented reverse 'tow assist' and tow hitch assist functions (selected from the touch screen menu) help perform accurate towing maneuvers. The wide fields of vision on the side cameras give a clear view of the reversing trailer and the images are electronically manipulated to provide an undistorted view. Guide lines overlaid on the rear camera image illustrate both the vehicle and trailer’s trajectory and these move in line with steering inputs, making it easier for the driver to predict where the trailer will move to, before performing the reversing maneuver.
Range Rover calls it the camera ball assist and it works well. The other option for trailering I like is the tow ball kit that includes three different size trailer hook up balls. Range Rover Sport models can tow up to 7,700 pounds.
The Range Rover Sport has a full size spare unlike some of the competition. When doing serious off roadinig you need to carry a full size spare. In addition Range Rover offers as an option the high strength steel skid plates for even more protection when off roading. I have been in certain vehicles off road without skid plates and one good jolt can remove an oil pan!
A refinement to the dynamic stability control system helps automatically slow the vehicle if taking a corner too fast, thus enhancing driver control.
The system operates according to steering inputs from the driver. In extreme cases, automatic braking intervenes to help reduce the vehicle speed, with the braking pressure level applied according to the steering inputs.
This feature is complemented by the new Roll Stability Control system, which is designed to intervene in the unlikely case of an extreme situation in which the possible onset of a rollover is detected. In such situations, the system is designed to take over and perform very rapid, wheel specific braking, to help reduce speed and marginally widen the cornering radius.
In more extreme cases the system is designed to initiate marginal understeer by sharply increasing brake force on the outer wheels, again widening the turning radius.
Land Rover offers a professional Land Rover Experience Driving Instructor. At your command is a world-class vehicle, raised and bred in the world's most remote areas.
I have been fortunate to experience one of Land Rover’s schools at the Biltmore Estate in Ashville, North Carolina. Every imaginable type of course we traversed. The school is for not just owners but those who are considering a Land Rover.
Other Land Rover schools are at the Quail Lodge in Carmel California; the Equinox in Southern Vermont’s Green Mountains; and in Canada at the Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello located in the Laurentian Mountains of Quebec. Each resort can be viewed by going to LandRover.com.
Vacation at a luxurious resort is a real plus. If the adventure convinces you that the Land Rover is the vehicle you wish then you win again!
“The Land Rover Range Rover Sport's performance, ride and handling have been transformed with the introduction of new engines, transmission and chassis systems. Combine these enhancements with the contemporary style and luxury of the revised interior, and it's clear that the Land Rover Range Rover Sport remains the only choice as the quintessential SUV sports tourer," says Phil Popham, Land Rover Managing Director.
I am sold on the Land Rover Sport! The Tata Brand is looking forward to even more innovations in their next generation of Land Rovers.
Article Originally seen on TheAutoChannel.com
Special to The Auto Channel
by Bruce Hubbard
Auto Advisor Group
Detroit September 1, 2009; Jim O’Donnell, CEO of BMW stated "The US is our (BMW's) single largest market, accounting for over 20% of the company’s sales," the with the premium segment growing in the US, and with Europe down the US market is important to BMW.
BMW is the luxury brand of the youth market. BMW is a believer in clean diesel technology and will bring to the United States at least three models in 2010. It seems that BMW, Audi and Volkswagen all have the belief that diesels will some day be important in the USA...I agree and if customers have driven some of the new models that we have been fortunate enough to drive they would also be believers in diesels.
Over the past few years BMW has shown us hydrogen run BMW models, and have shown us the Mini E(electric)Vehicle and are working with hybrids and expect to bring to the US market an X series and a 7 Series hybrid.
Jim stated that BMW is committed to the American market and is proud of what they have accomplished in their factory in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where they manufacture the X5, X 6 and the Z4. Because of this production BMW is the largest exporter of cars in the US, and now with a $1 Billion dollar expansion at their US facility BMW will be able to produce even more cars in America.
I have just enjoyed a day with a new BMW model known as the Gran Turismo. BMW will offer the 5 Series Gran Turismo for sale in December in the US as the newest member of the 5 Series, shown not long ago as a concept at the Geneva Auto Show. Our pre-production test 550i Gran Turismo is 90% of the final production model to be shown off at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show.
Estimated to sell for $65,000 to $70,000 dollars. The four-door hatchback is unique. The windows do not have frames on this 2010 5 Series Gran Turismo model. The trunk in the 5 Series Gran Turismo BMW calls a “bi mode”. It can be accessed in a unique way. Bottom section can open alone as seen in the photo attached. But, then the power hatch can be opened to offer plenty of room to access cargo. In the rear buttons allow for the second row seats to fall quickly opening up even more cargo space. Seats up cargo space are around 15 cubic feet. Folded seats offer nearly 60 cubic feet of cargo space.
The second hatchback to come from BMW in the last year. The coupe like design was created to offer a wonderful sculpted luxurious vehicle with elegance, space, and comfort. Flexibility is a plus and BMW hopes to bring in customers who already drive a luxurious sedan and or a SUV and want something different that offers performance and luxury.
I had two different 5 Series Gran Turismo models. One model is a four seater and the other is a 5 seater. Both are superb. The four seater has bucket seats in front and rear. The rear compartment has a larger center armrest. On that model it also had entertainment system that was in the front seat headrests for the passengers to view. All can watch the same entertainment when the vehicle is parked. The large 10.2 inch navigational monitor converts to a TV screen in park. The navigational system is the same as the 2009 upgraded system seen in the 7 Series BMW. State of the art system was developed internally. BMW developed the software to meet their demands according to Matthew Russell at BMW communications in New Jersey. Hard drive based navigation system with voice activation and real time traffic information are included in system.
The quality and fit and finish on the exterior are perfect. Design BMW states for the 5 Series Gran Turismo shows some of the X6 and parts of the 7 Series. It has a striking waistline combined with the coupe like roofline. Best of both turns the 5 Series Gran Turismo with the twin turbo into a sports car that has the best of BMW’s suspension and cargo space of the X6.
The performance of the Gran Turismo 550i's comes from twin-turbo direct-injected 4.4-liter V-8, which puts out 400 bhp and 450 lb.-ft. of torque. Combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission, BMW says the 550i Gran Turismo will hit 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The rear wheel drive 5 Series Gran Turismo will be a performance model. Engineers stated to me the second engine, may be the 306 horsepower twin-turbo six from the X6 next or a newer six cylinder. Hopefully in a few years perhaps the 265 hp diesel from the 335d be included in the power train offerings.
The 550i Gran Turismo is equipped standard with high-tech features, including 4th-generation iDrive, active suspension and driver-adjustable engine, transmission, power steering and traction control parameters. It's also the first U.S. BMW with Brake Energy Regeneration. The alternator charges the battery when braking.
Sharing the design of the front and rear multilink suspensions with the proven 7 Series the Gran Turismo 5501 benefits from reduced weight in its design. By using aluminum on most of the suspension system weight is reduced in the Gran Turismo 550i.
I love the large panoramic glass sunroof that actually uses 55% of the roof. Reminds me of the terrific other sunroof offered today by another German carmaker. Audi.
Plenty of legroom and headroom in the new 5 Series Gran Turismo. Legroom in the rear compartment has basically same legroom as the 7 Series. Headroom is similar to that of the X5.
The photos show the beautiful leather seating surfaces and the familiar I Drive in the center console. The dash and steering wheel have satellite controls.
To make your journey safer 5 Series Gran Turismo has lane departure control and adaptive cruise control. Optional and included in the active lane departure package is an accident avoidance system. Which system I am not sure of yet. In Europe they have a very sophisticated system available. What we get now as part of the4 package is a collision warning system. Another option is “night vision”. Superb system for the back roads that do not have streetlights or even in the mountain regions of the West. Features like adaptive headlamps make BMW even safer.
The 5 Series Gran Turismo offers Blind Spot Avoidance system. Using radar the system scans the area around your car and warns you of a vehicle in your blind spot.
The 5 Series Gran Turismo comes with standard sport run flat tires and superb looking alloy wheels. Standard are 18 inch but you can get 20 inch rims and tires that are optional.
Driver's and passenger's front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with advanced technology: dual-threshold, dual-stage deployment; and front-passenger seat sensors designed to prevent unnecessary airbag deployment
Front safety belts with automatic pretensioners Automatic-locking retractors (ALR) are on all passenger-seat safety belts (for installation of child-restraint seats) Other safety systems include front and rear Head Protection System (HPS) plus, front-seat side-impact airbags and active Knee Protection. In the front seats the 5 Series Gran Turismo gets active Head Restraints.
The rear lights are BMW familiar. L shaped cluster of lights on horizontal rows extend around the rear lights.
The rear C pillar of the 5 Series Gran Turismo has what some call the Hofmeister Kink. It is a low forward bend in the C-pillar of the car, which is the piece of metal that separates the rear side windows from the rear glass. The kink formally debuted on the 1961 BMW 1500 at the 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show and was later named after then-BMW director of design, Wilhelm Hofmeister.
Apart from its pleasing effect, the Hofmeister kink is said by BMW to subtly highlight the fact that all BMW models have rear-wheel drive (or all-wheel drive biased to the rear).
The 120.7 inch wheelbase of the 5 Series Gran Turismo has many competitive vehicles. A few of the competitive vehicles would be the Infinit FX, Acura MDX, Audi A6 Avant. The US market will get from BMW an all wheel drive Gran Turismo model similar to the one sold in Europe during after the first year.
BMW is expanding dealerships in the US. Mini will soon have nearly 100 dealers up from 82. Rolls Royce has not indicated any more dealers. BMW dealerships are around 320 and will expand if needed. They are driving to be the number one luxury car company in America.
Text and photos by Bruce Hubbard, all rights reserved
Article Originally seen on TheAutoChannel.com
Photo's and Text by
Bruce and Brad Hubbard
Auto Advisor Group
A little history about Subaru before we review the 2010 Subaru Forester. "Subaru," is a Japanese word meaning "unite." A number of companies came together (“Unite”) and started the company known as Fugi Heavy industries in the early 1950’s. In 1954, the first Subaru car was unveiled. Powered by a four-cylinder engine, the P-1 (its name was later changed to the Subaru 1500) boasted a front-wheel wishbone-type independent suspension and was the first car to feature a monocoque body designed in Japan. Subaru began offering four-wheel drive passenger cars 35 years ago and introduced innovative automatic full-time All-Wheel Drive in 1987. In 1997, Subaru became the first brand in the U.S. to make All-Wheel Drive standard on all its models.
Today Fuji Heavy Industries has some of the worlds most acclaimed vehicles. Even today the success of Subaru is making news in Australia with the Diesel Boxer engines in Subaru models. Toyota is even going to put in one of their Sports Cars (similar to their FT86 Concept) the Boxer engine. You may recall that GM had 20% of Subaru ownership some time ago. Now Toyota has that stake in Subaru so it makes sense that they use the Boxer engine.
The redesigned 2010 award winning crossover SUV Subaru Forester is excellent on and off the road. We were very confident with the automatic driven for a week in ice, snow and very deep snow conditions in Michigan’s winter weather. The Forester has seen a 28% increase in sales since 2009. In fact 77,000 units were sold!
Subaru vehicles get the highest awards for safety, dependability, and versatility. That is only part of the reason that customers are so loyal. The other is that Fuji Heavy Equipment has continued to deliver as standard in the Subaru’s Forester their Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. If you wish manual drive the system delivers basically a 50/50 distribution of power when used in manual modes. Many of the buyers must have the manual. However, with the automatic drive system it is more sophisticated, the Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive uses an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch to actively manage power distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, and available traction. This system automatically transfers more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur. Control logic enhances stability by monitoring individual wheel speeds and reacting more quickly to wheel slippage.
The systems that Subaru vehicles enjoy may have come from the motorsport experiences that Subaru has had. This is the company that has had numerous World Rally Championships. Three World Championships and continuing into 2010 their superiority in Rally Road Racing.
Subaru designed the new-generation 2010 Forester
around the company’s proven Ring Shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure. The Forester, like all the Subaru vehicles has achieved the highest ratings in both NHTSA and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tests and is an IIHS “Top Safety Pick.”
All Forester models for 2010 feature as standard equipment front seat side impact air bags and side curtain air bags that offer additional head protection for front and rear occupants. Intelligent dual-stage deployment front air bags use sensors to determine front air bag deployment strength for optimal occupant protection. Active front head restraints can help reduce potential whiplash injury in a rear collision.A rollover sensor for the 2010 Forester is designed to activate the seat belt pre-tensioners and deploy the curtain airbags. The new-generation Forester, like the previous model, achieved a 4-star rating for rollover from the NHTSA.
The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system and Brake Assist safety system are standard on all Subaru Forester models. Manual-transmission models also feature Incline Start Assist, which can momentarily prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.
The 2010 Subaru Forester models have a 3.6-inch longer wheelbase than the second-generation Forester (now 103.0 inches), the new-generation Forester offers improved ride and interior space, especially rear seat legroom, which measures a generous 38.0 inches. The Forester also features increased hip and shoulder room. Customers are bragging about the ride and drive thanks to the new longer wheelbase. The quietness or NVH has been improved in the newest generation Forester.
The new-generation Forester platform is based on the same foundation that underpins the brand’s sporty Impreza models. The new chassis and body are designed for improved rigidity and ride comfort with the addition of high-tensile-strength steel at key structural points. In addition, the new platform improves crash-worthiness.
A new double-wishbone rear suspension, mounted to a sub frame, replaces the previous generation Forester’s strut-type configuration to provide improved ride and handling and increased cargo room.
The Forester has an area under the rear cargo mat that holds a spare tire and tools. To access that remove a unique tray that is also used for storage of valuable gear.
The 2009 redesign placed the engine slightly lower in the chassis, which lowers the center of gravity, and Forester also gained a quicker steering ratio and a more rigid steering mounting. The Forester 2.5X model features 16-inch steel wheels use 215/65R16 tires; all others ride on 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 225/55R17 tires.
The 2010 Forester is offered in five trim lines. The 2.5X Premium adds a 10-way power driver’s seat, large panoramic power moonroof and interior enhancements and offers an available All-Weather Package (heated front seats, heated side mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer). The Forester 2.5X Limited includes the All-Weather Package and offers more luxury without compromising the vehicle’s responsive nature and offers an available navigation system. For powerful, sporty performance, the 2.5XT Premium and 2.5XT Limited are powered by a 224-hp turbocharged/intercooled Boxer engine. With the 224 horsepowered engine the fuel consumption is 20 mpg for city and 26 mpg for the highway.
As stated previously Subaru now has a diesel Boxer engine. In Australia and other parts of Europe the Subaru vehicles are now using the superb diesel Boxer engine. More torque and extremely fuel efficient. Australia loves the diesel that is in the Subaru Outback! The design of the Boxer engines allows even the Diesel to be closer to the ground delivering the best is handling. The Subaru Boxer Diesel is one of the quietest thanks again to the Boxer design. I hope this engine will reach the US market in the future.
The 2010 Subaru Forester hood line is higher. The grill is more pronounced. The “hawk eye” headlights are larger and deliver plenty of light on the highway at night when in low or high beam. No adaptive headlamp system yet is offered for the Forester. The contoured bumper had on my tester the optional foglights that give the front end a more confident appearance. Sharply defined character lines and boxed front fenders and rear quarter panels accentuate the SUV profile. Large light clusters highlight the rear styling of the Forester.
The heavy-duty raised 4-wheel independent suspension and up to 8.9 inches of ground clearance help to make Forester equally adept at negotiating twisty roads and absorbing ruts and bumps. The ride quality, acclaimed in the previous model as one of the best in the segment, is now even smoother and quieter.
I like the sweeping twin cockpit design. The brushed aluminum-look insets flow into the center stack. The center console shape adds to the airiness of the interior, aided by the sculpted door panels and improved headroom. Each door panel houses a molded recess that can accommodate a 24-oz. soft drink bottle, as well as loose items.
Rear passenger comfort is enhanced by a central armrest in all models. All but the 2.5X base model features a new reclining rear seatback function and a retractable rear center tray that can securely hold food and drinks. The standard 60/40-split rear seatbacks fold to provide a flat cargo floor, made 5.2 inches wider between the wheelhouses by the double-wishbone suspension.
The cargo area is large enough to accommodate four Tour-sized golf bags or four large overnight suitcases with the rear seatbacks raised. We used it to store four large camera suitcases and four tripods and lighting gear. The heavy cases sat on the rugged rubber floor mat that help keep the cargo area clean.
The Forester includes Bluetooth wireless capability for the available navigation system in Limited trim lines, with a microphone in the overhead console. Bluetooth as you know allows hands-free phone usage with a compatible cell phone. A revised instrument cluster features easier-to-see colors. In addition, a new map light door interlock switch enables the owner to select the map lights to illuminate with door opening. The 2.5X Premium gains a standard 10-way power passenger seat.
The navigation screen is placed at the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and ease of use. I did not have one in the Forester I drove. However, right after the Forester I did have the Impreza WRX with a navigation system. Worked extremely well with not only the GPS navigation system but with the sound system too. The 2010 Forester comes pre-wired for XM or SIRIUS Satellite Radio. I love Sirius and XM radio for the long road trips. The standard and optional audio systems feature the Radio Broadcast Data System, which can display a song’s title and artist, plus other data.
Forester models equipped with the navigation system include Audyssey MultEQ audio enhancement, which is also featured in Subaru Impreza models. Used in high-end home theater systems, Audyssey MultEQ creates the optimal sound experience for passengers in each seat position by tuning equalization that corrects for time and frequency response.
The Forester’s 2.5-liter normally aspirated Boxer engine was modified for the 2009 redesign to improve performance, drivability, and economy. This reliable engine delivers 170 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 170 lb.-ft. of peak torque @ 4,400 rpm. The i-Active Valve Lift System (AVLS) ensures a broad torque curve and smooth response at all engine speeds.
The Forester 2.5XT models are powered by a revised 2.5-liter turbocharged/intercooled Boxer engine delivering 224 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm and 226 lb.-ft. of peak torque @ 2,800 rpm. The turbo engine gained a new intake system, redesigned turbocharger and intercooler in the 2009 redesign to produce more torque at lower rpm for a smooth stream of power.
Forester 2.5X and 2.5X premium models offer a choice between a standard 5-speed manual transmission and an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic. The automatic, which features SPORTSHIFT control for manual gear shifting when desired, is standard for the 2.5X Limited and both of the 2.5XT models.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is comprised of the Boxer engine and the full-time power distribution system, which varies by model and transmission. The aluminum Boxer engine and simple, symmetrical drivetrain layout help to lower the vehicle’s center of gravity, which in turn contributes to handling precision. It is superb! The low engine and boxer engine also make it one of the quietest engines. No wonder Porsche for years has used Boxer engines in their sports cars.
I tested the 2.5 X Premium that had a base price of $22,795.00. Adding the weather package at $400.00 and the 4 speed automatic transmission with Sportshift for $1000.00, cargo tray for $75.00 and the Sirius radio fee of $429.00 and finally destination charges of $695.00 and the MSRP was $25,394.00.
I had on the Forester the towing hitch. I merely installed our receiver and was able to move a small trailer with ease. You will be able to tow a small boat trailer, waverunner, or even your snowmobile easily. No sway control option is available on the Forester.
Since the styling was changed last year many have praised the new look and others say Subaru Forester needed more exterior design upgrade from the previous boxy model. As stated above not only has the exterior been changed but the interior has been improved in looks and legroom. A real plus when sitting in the second row seats. Subaru is certainly not complaining with an increase of 28% of sales volume. Dominick Infante from Subaru told me sales were 77,000.
Competitors are the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CRV. Both wonderful alternatives to the all wheel drive Forester. "Forester is a reasonably priced alternative to compact SUV bellwethers such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4," says Consumer Guide. "It's noisier and less refined than those rivals, and its interior ambiance is a step behind that of other recently redesigned crossovers. Still, Forester offers good fuel economy and lots of features for the money, with the 2.5X and 2.5X Premium being the strongest values."
Subaru customers are very loyal and love their vehicles. That is why we see more of the Subaru products on the road today that have many times 200,000 miles on them. Today the customer will get a real value in the Subaru Forester and I assume we will see them on the road still in another ten years.
The car like manners of the Subaru Forester and the superb Boxer engine mated to the finest all wheel drive systems make the 2010 Forester a real winner in our eyes.
As stated before even the Insurance Institute for highway safety picked the Forester as a “Best Pick” among small SUV’s.
Article Originally seen on TheAutoChannel.com
