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OUR STAFF. Daniel Bulgarelli: Editor-in-Chief Kyle Edward: Founder Eric Stafford: Editor Aaron Starnes: Editor Brett Davies: Editor Andre Evans: Editor Calvin Sherwood: Technical Writer Neal Anderson: Designer
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MAY 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS Car of the Month: BMW 750I Xdrive...............4
AUDI R8
News: Audi R8..................................................... 10 News: Tesla Model 3........................................... 11 Review: 2016 Lexus NX300H.......................... 12 News: Bugatti Chiron......................................... 14 Review: 2016 Honda Civic Coupe.................. 16
NEWS: TESLA MODEL 3
BMW 750I XDRIVE
Review: 2016 Lancer EVO................................. 18 News: Ford Mustang GT350R.......................... 20 Review: 2016 Lincoln MKX............................... 22 Review: 2016 Hyundai Genesis........................ 24 Letter from the Editor....................................... 26
NEWS: BUGATTI CHIRON
LEXUS NX300H
HONDA CIVIC COUPE
LINCOLN MKX
LANCER EVO
NEWS: MUSTANG GT350R
HYUNDAI GENESIS
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CAR OF THE MONTH
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THE ABYSS OF LUXURY: 2016 BMW 750I XDRIVE
BY KYLE EDWARD 5
Here at Drive magazine, we see so many cars each year they almost become a blur. We become accustomed to flashy new metal, you begin to get lost in an abyss of chrome and leather. It’s been so long since I’ve had a car I can’t help but want to jump out of bed in the morning and start working with. The all new 2016 BMW 7 Series is one of those special cars. It’s not just a car, but a statement - “I’m here, and I’m special.” It’s always been the sporty choice among top tier luxury sedans, this new generation further drives home that point The 7 Series was introduced in 1977 as a worthy successor to the E3. This 6th generation of BMW’s flagship is the best yet. Another reason why flagship vehicles are my favorite is obvious is they come equipped with the latest cutting edge technology. Some of the best tech features to get excited about in the 7 would be the 3D camera view, which allows you to view your vehicle from a 3D perspective at many different angles. Don’t enjoy parallel parking? The BMW will again use its series of sensors and cameras to park itself even in heavy city traffic. Night vision is also available and came equipped on our press vehicle. Deer and people will light up yellow against a black and white background on the 8.1 inch touch screen. The all new iDrive system which is how you control the multimedia system is fantastic, quicker response time and a cleaner interface is welcome. This BMW outshines many of it’s competitors in what may be the most important part of any luxury vehicle; the interior. You will notice substantial changes from the previous generation such as the steering wheel, multimedia system and the rear seat, which finally gets a real luxury package. he rear seats are full of plush, soft leather and alcantara, reclining seats with automatic sunshades and multiple screens that include navigation information plus you can choose from many different kinds of massages to keep yourself feeling relaxed on long drives. This space has improved greatly from the previous generation making it feel like a luxurious space and not something that was an afterthought. There is wireless phone charging in the center console, a 1400-watt Bowers & Wilkins audio system with 16 speakers, and a standard panoramic sunroof which can be upgraded to a Panoramic Sky Lounge LED Roof, in which the glass is etched and illuminated by LEDs to look like a starry sky. It will take someone familiar with the 7 Series to notice design changes since it’s very similar to its predecessor. We now have forged headlamps due to a hood reduction, newly arranged rear LED lights create a vibrant, modern feel while some design staples such as the dual kidney grill remain. BMW decided it would be a good idea to use metal for its multimedia buttons instead of the plastic they used previously. It’s the little details make all the difference. If you don’t want to use buttons, gesture control allows you to turn up the volume, change radio stations and more with the flick or a wrist or finger. This feature may attract attention from drivers who may not be as well endowed. As I sat at a stop light changing radio stations, a man in a Cadillac asked me what I was doing. I told him I was a wizard. As I increased the radio volume, he began to look increasingly confused. I peeled away and left the bewildered Cadillac driver in my rearview mirror.
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The new 7 cuts down on weight by 190 pounds thanks to a new platform that includes a carbon-fiber core.Among the big 3 when it comes to German flagships, the 7 Series leads the pack in the performance and handling sectors. It doesn’t feel like mammoth sedan plus with a 0-60 time of 4.4 seconds, you can leave that Panamera or Mustang behind. We now have two engine choices, a six-cylinder 740i and V-8 750i. We assume BMW will bring back the twelve-cylinder 760, the ActiveHybrid 7, and the Alpina B7 models within due time. A diesel is also a possibility at some point. The six and V-8 in the 740i and 750i are familiar. The six-cylinder is a 3.0-liter turbo, although it is part of BMW’s new, modular engine family. Output is 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, which has the 740i from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, according to BMW. The 4.4-liter V-8 with two turbochargers spins out 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft, cutting the zero-to-60 run to a factory-estimated 4.3 seconds however our tests resulted 4.4 seconds.
Making an appearance once again is the Pros: Exterior styling, interior tech feaZF eight-speed automatic which is one tures, luxurious rear seat, driving dynamics of the best transmissions available today Cons: Obstrusive Stop/Start feature due to its razor sharp shifts and quick response time. The new chassis features standard air suspension, with electroni2016 BMW 750i XDrive cally controlled dampers and optional Engine: 4.4L V8, Twin Turbocharged active anti-roll bars.Four-wheel steering (BMW’s Integral Active Steering) is Horsepower: 445 hp @ 5500 rpm available, only now it can be optioned Torque: 480 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm with both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. It’s very noticeable how easily this Transmission: 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic 0-60: 4.4 secs vehicle makes tight turns and fits into small spaces. A new predictive adaptive MSRP: $97,400 suspension—Road Preview—that sounds Overall Score- 9.5 out of 10 very similar to Mercedes-Benz’s Magic Body Control, uses cameras to scan the road surface ahead and adjust the adaptive suspension accordingly, providing an extremely comfortable ride. If you are looking for a true luxury sedan, the all new BMW 7 Series will be a great option provided you are looking for that sporty, youthful appearance. It’s the best driving among it’s peers and continues the tradition of being BMW’s iconic, cutting edge flagship sedan.
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PICK YOUR POISON
By Brett Davies
ALL-NEW 2017 AUDI R8 COMES IN FLAVORS “FAST” AND “FASTER” By Eric M. Stafford Audi developed its all-new 2017 R8 side-by- side with its GT3 brethren the R8 LMS for the first time, and as a result the two share half of the same parts. This means the two production R8 models share the same 5.2-liter V10 and new ASF aluminum construction with Audi’s race car. “Faster, more efficient, and more capable both on and off the racetrack, the all-new 2017 R8 is the most powerful Audi production model ever,” said Audi. With that knowledge, buyers then have to decide which model they want: the fast one, or the faster one. The base V10 features 540 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque that is good for 0-60 times of 3.5 seconds and top track speed of 199 mph. A step up from that is the V10 plus with 610 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. Top track speed is 205 mph and 0-60 mph takes 3.2 seconds. Both models boast Audi’s updated seven-speed, S tronic dual-clutch transmission, which can shift gears in 120 ms, according to the company. Also updated along the drivetrain is a completely unique version of the quattro system. The company said by default, the majority of torque goes to the rear wheels, but, in certain conditions, the R8 can send up to 100 percent of all available torque to the front axle. “This is made possible by new technologies such as the electronically controlled hydraulic multi-plate clutch on the front axle, torque vectoring, and quattro integration within the Audi drive select system,” the company said. As far as numbers are concerned in comparison to the last generation R8, the new model’s dimensions are similar but more refined. The 2017 R8 is an inch lower and shorter, but grew half an inch wider. Furthermore, the new lightweight chassis means the R8 has lost some weight. Audi says the V10 plus weighs 33 pounds less than the previous generation, and the V10 weighs 55 pounds less. However, by using 13 percent carbon fiber materials, the improved chassis performance has 40 percent greater rigidity.
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Overall, the V10 plus is about 77 pounds less than the base model and features standard Audi carbon ceramic brakes, carbon fiber rear diffuser, front lip spoiler, exterior mirror housings and fixed rear wing spoiler and racing shell seats, according to the company. From a design standpoint, the all-new R8 is a clear evolution on the original that came out almost a decade ago. However, Audi has reworked the the body panels to be more angular and less round than in the past. The company said the strong shoulder line is now uninterrupted by the new two-piece design of the Audi sideblade and the hidden door handles. Up front, the grille has been sharpened by a singleframe unit with a three-dimensional honeycomb design. The V10 has an adaptive rear spoiler, and the plus features a carbon fiber fixed rear wing. Fitted to the four corners and standard on the V10 are 19-inch, 5-V- spoke designed, cast aluminum wheels in silver finish. The V10 plus gets the same only they use forged aluminum in a matte titanium finish. Inside the R8, 18-way power seats with Fine Nappa leather are standard on V10 models. Whereas the V10 plus gets racing shell seats that offer more lateral support and contoured seat styling. A Bang & Olufsen sound system features 13 speakers and 550 watts is standard on the V10, optional on the plus. “With uncompromised performance and unmistakable design, the R8 model line has represented the pinnacle of Audi performance since its introduction in 2008, and this all-new 2017 R8 is no exception,” said Audi. The 2017 Audi R8 is on sale now in the U.S. with the V10 starting at $162,900, and the V10 plus at $189,900.
TESLA MODEL 3: SMALLER AND CHEAPER THAN ITS BIG BROTHER, BUT MORE ACCESSIBLE
By Eric M. Stafford If Tesla’s Model S changed the game, the Model 3 will make it so everyone can play. In an announcement at the end of March, Tesla introduced an entry-level vehicle into its lineup that will have a starting price of only $35,000 before incentives. For comparison, the starting price of the Model S is double that at about $70,000, and the Model X SUV begins around $80 grand. Half the price probably means half the car, right? Well, although not many specific details have been fully revealed by Tesla as of yet, the few that are known definitely pique interest. Tesla says the Model 3 “combines real world range, performance, safety and spaciousness into a premium sedan that only Tesla can build.” This means a range of 215 miles per charge, 0-60 times in under six seconds, a design created to achieve a five-star safety rating and seating for five adults. Along with those quick, neat little facts provided on Tesla’s website, the Model 3 will also have the ability to be “supercharged” for quick battery refills like its larger siblings, and it will feature the company’s autopilot hardware. So far, the most polarizing thing about the new baby Tesla is it looks. The car’s grille-less snout is definitely not like many other cars seen on the road today and its compacted proportions don’t exactly capture the same stance as the Model S. However, closer inspection reveals the same style of flush, automatic door handles which blend into the body like on the larger car. The roof also appears to utilize the same panoramic glass, and the body panels look like they reflect a similar shape to that of the Model S.
On the inside, the Model 3 appears to have been given a minimalist treatment but there’s no mistaking the giant touchscreen situated in the middle of the dash. As of now, Tesla has not officially revealed what the Model 3’s interior will look like, and some media outlets have reported it will be “tech heavy.” For now, the only thing that stood out about the car’s cockpit is its large touchscreen that unlike the Model S sits in a landscape position compared to a portrait-style screen. Overall, Tesla’s latest reveal shows the company has found some traction with consumers, and when the Model 3 reaches production it will finally be possible for a majority of people to own one. Deliveries of the Tesla Model 3 are set to begin in late 2017.
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2016 LEXUS NX300H THE NEXUS OF LUXURY AND EFFICIENCY
By Brett Davies
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The 2016 Lexus NX300h is the union between the sporty design of the Lexus NX line of SUVs and efficiency. Lexus is a leader in hybrid technology and luxury. The customer gets a lot of value despite the higher price tag. And thus, Lexus releases the NX300h and it starts at a low $39,720 MSRP. That price is comparable to a Ford Explorer, yet the Lexus is a much more efficient vehicle that gets around 33 MPG with a very reputable name-tag. Not only is this hybrid efficient, it comes with choices between front wheel drive (FWD) and all wheel drive (AWD) options, amongst a plethora of other attributes. So, look no further, this SUV is bound to catch your eye. The NX300h comes equipped with an extensive array of features. The vehicle has premium triplebeam LED headlights that have multiple functions, very inviting illuminating door handles that reward you with sophistication, and LED tail-lights- to ensure you get noticed from the front or back. These rear combination lamps feature a high-contrast design and ultra-clear turn-signals setting you apart from all the other cars on the road. In addition, this car comes packed with interior technology. The Lexus Enform App Suite integrates with your cell phone seamlessly and offers convenient 24-hour, en-route navigation assistance from a live response center agent who can help you find locations and automatically upload the destinations to your system.
If you want to make dinner reservations or catch a matinee, you can right from the center-console display. Furthermore, download the Enform Remote App for your cell-phone, allowing you to remote-start the engine, lock and unlock doors, check the status of doors and windows as well as your fuel level, and can help find your vehicle’s location in a parking lot. And, should you let someone borrow your Lexus, you can receive instant alerts if a preset speed or mile limit is exceeded, complimentary for the first year of ownership. Each NX300h has a touch pad to navigate the console suite and comes with bluetooth technology, wireless cellphone charger, Siri Eyes Free (for iPhone users), and voice command. The performance packages are incredible. With 194 horsepower, a driver can choose variable driver modes with a turn-dial switch, options from eco-normal-sport functionality. If you choose the AWD, Lexus has integrated a system to monitor vehicle and road conditions to predict the weather. Then it maximizes efficiency by automatically delivering up to half of the available torque to the rear wheels only when you need it. Speaking of efficiency, the NXh utilizes regenerative braking and other advancements to make the most of its Lexus Hybrid Drive system. This innovative Hybrid Drive system uses the torque of the hybrid motor to automatically counter the pitching force caused by uneven roads. As a result, the NX Hybrid is kept more level, enhancing ride comfort and overall handling response.
Amongst all of this technology and performance, the NX300h is very comfortable and full of style. The interior design is flawless, and the seating is choice. From power folding and reclining rear seats to ten-ways power front seats, it is luxury for a king. This excessiveness of luxury is almost overwhelming, but what is to be expected from Lexus. Do not forget the leather wrapped, heated steering wheel and the massive moon roof- you will be the envy of everyone else on the road.
Pros: Exterior Styling, Luxurious Interior, AWD Option Cons: Dated multimedia system
2016 Lexus NX300h Engine: 2.5L Inline4 Horsepower: 154 HP @5700 rpm Torque: 152 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Transmission: Continuously Variable(CVT) 0-60: 9.1 secs MSRP: $39,720 Overall Score- 8.5 out of 10
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BUGATTI WENT AND BUILT THE WORLD’S FASTEST PRODUCTION CAR – AGAIN! By Aaron Starnes
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That’s right, it’s time to rip that Countach poster off the wall and throw it directly into the garbage! Bugatti has built something new. They call it the Chiron and it’s even more over the top and outrageous than the Veyron. Bugatti retained the ludicrously powerful 8 litre, quad-turbocharged W16 (don’t know what a W configuration is? Youtube it and prepare to have your mind blown) only this time they managed to wring about 300 extra horsepower out of it. That’s right, the insanity of 1,200 hp wasn’t enough, so they pushed it to nearly 1,500! How’d they do it? A newly designed set of turbos play a big role. Using a two stage set up they can expand the range of RPMs in which the turbos are providing the maximum output. Great, what does that mean? Well, it means that by adding some extra plumbing here and valves there and a generous helping of engineering the torque peaks at 2000 and is maintained through 6000 rpm. All this adds up to the car carrying it’s occupant’s to 60mph in 2.5 seconds. In short, it’s a rocket ship.It looks good too. The Veyron seemed to have a look rooted in the 90s. It had a bit of a lethargic look to it. The Chiron’s eight rectangular headlights give it the look of a fierce arachnid. Bugatti retained the “horseshoe” grille and added the elegant crescent scoop behind the doors which is a nod to the early designs. The below the retractable rear wing there’s horizontal led light that spans the width of the car. The car looks at once classic and brutally contemporary.
Lusting after this type of car is a little like having a crush on a celebrity. Yeah, you can memorize loads of trivia, and maybe, if you’re lucky, you can catch a glimpse of them at an event. But what does all that add up to? The closest you’re likely to get is a poster on your bedroom wall. And even if you did manage to cajole Scarlett Johansson, ahem, I mean theoretical celebrity crush to spend some time with you, could you afford it? It’s the same with the Chiron. It’d be a blast to take it for a 261 mph joyride, but what would it be like to put tires and brake pads on one. Seriously, a set of four tires for the Veyron will set owners back over 40 grand. The Chiron has wider and taller rims which are bound to be shod with even pricier rubber. In this writer’s humble opinion it’s more prudent to hunt easier prey. For what an oil sheik pays for one of his Bugatti’s Michelins, you can get set up in something pretty dang cool. And for a fraction of that a vintage Fiat 124 can be had. Think of that, for a couple grand you can have an Italian sports car with a rag top, a wood dash and a body by Pininfarina. Sure it’s not as flashy as the new Chiron, and it only has 25% of the cylinders and 0% of the turbochargers, but it’s… actually a terrible idea. Don’t buy a Fiat 124. That’s the thing about celebrity crushes and the Bugattis, they’re marvelous things if you don’t think about them too hard. But damn, just like Scarl… eh, um, celebrity crushes, this new Chiron sure is exciting and easy on the eyes.
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2016 HONDA CIVIC COUPE LX THE SENSIBLE COUPE By Kyle Edward
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The Civic made Honda the brand it is today. Everyone knows the Honda Civic, it’s a reliable, inexpensive option for many middle class Americans. But that’s where it basically stopped. There was nothing really special or unique about the previous Civic generations, however we have finally made a giant leap in terms of design. For 2016 the Civic and Civic coupe gets a complete overhaul and wow does it look impressive and exciting. Sleek sharp lines carve out the exterior and standard LED accent lights provide a fresh front fascia. We really do love the all new Civic coupe and it has a starting price of $19,050, a great value. Our test car came equipped with no extras or gadgets, just a good old fashioned six-speed manual transmission and four naturally aspirated cylinders. I was actually happy to get a totally base Civic coupe. Normally we crave getting the highest trim level vehicles however for this review I felt the base model was most appropriate. If you ever drive the manual Civic you will notice it’s an extremely friendly and forgiving gearbox/clutch combo. It’s a soft clutch, which engages slowly and the gearbox has very soft shift gates. That’s great if you are going to use this as your daily driver and most likely you will be. But if you are looking for a sporty, engaging manual transmission, you won’t find it here.
Our LX was equipped with the base engine which achieved 31 city, 41 hwy. With that said, it’s purpose is efficiency, for those of you who desire something more, a turbo 4 cylinder is available which is sure to impress. Handling is simply perfect, steering feedback is balanced perfectly between comfort and road feel and the coupe is always planted when hitting those curvy roads. Price point considered, the interior is extremely well constructed plus you get the quietest interior in the whole segment, which is another way Honda is showing the industry they are out for blood. An optional multi media system is available and it seems like a good system from the little we have experimented with it. The improvements for this 10th generation Civic Coupe cannot be understated, it’s better in every way possible from design to performance. If you want something efficient, sporty and sleek, I’d take a very strong look at the all new 2016 Honda Civic Coupe.
2016 Honda Civic Coupe LX
Pros: Sleek new design, Well constructed interior, Engine: 2.0L In-Line 4-Cylinder Starting price Horsepower: 158 @ 6500 rpm Cons: Needs seatbelt Torque: 174 lb-ft @6000 rpm holders in coupe. Transmission: 6-Speed Manual 0-60: 8 secs MSRP: $19,050 Overall Score- 9.5 out of 10
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2016 LANCER EVO FINAL EDITION THE END OF AN ERA By Kyle Edward
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The Lancer Evolution has been in production since 1992 however it hasn’t always been available in the US markets. Mitsubishi decided to export the eighth generation Evolution to the United States in 2003, after noting the success Subaru had in that market with their long-time direct rival, the Subaru Impreza WRX STi. It’s hard to see it go, for good. Thankfully they decided to create a final edition which will consist of 1600 units and it will stick to tradition with a five-speed manual transmission and 303 horsepower (12 more than other Evos). As for the styling, it hasn’t been changed in years. The same bold, lines and bulky curves makeup the exterior styling. It was dressed in the wicked white exterior paint color, which was quite fitting for this vehicle, making the bold lines contrast beautifully with the 18 inch BBS forged aluminum alloy wheels. The wheels were particularly captivating, as they have large open gaps, allowing you to observe the giant, bright red BREMBO high performance braking system. Which includes ventilated 2-piece rotors (for weight reduction), with 4-piston calipers.
The multi-link suspension is also very advanced, containing MacPherson struts (inverted strut) with forged aluminum control arms, Eibach springs and Bilstein shock absorbers, in both the front and rear. All in all, a very advanced and sophisticated suspension system that lends itself to a very precise and controlled driving experience. Under the hood, we have a turbocharged 2.0L DOHC 4 cylinder engine that gets this little rally car going in the blink of an eye. Although turbo lag is very noticeable from a standstill, it’s still an extremely fast car. It handles like a champ, partly thanks to the S-AWC “super handling all wheel control” system. It’s always digging and pulling just where you told it to, while precise rack and pinion steering gives you precise road feel feedback.
There is really nothing bad to say about the Evo when it comes to performance and driving dynamics. However over the past couple of years, Subaru and even Ford have really swept into the rally space with significantly newer styling cues and interiors, which is a key point for today’s buyers. It’s sad to see the Evo leave us, but at least it can still leave with some dignity.
Pros: Driving dynamics, rally ready Cons: Dated exterior styling, poor quality interior, no 6th gear
2016 Lancer EVO Final Edition Engine: 2.0L Inline4, Turbocharged Horsepower: 303 HP @6500 rpm Torque: 305 lb-ft @4,000 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed Manual 0-60: 4.5 secs MSRP: $37,995 Overall Score- 7.0 out of 10
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VOODOO MAGIC By Andre Evans
Dare to be different and dare to be bold. That is exactly what Ford has done with their 2016 Mustang Shelby GT350R. With the push of a red button the magic happens, or in this case the “Voodoo”. Voodoo being the codename of the 5.2 liter engine that powers this unrelenting beast. When you hear the engine start, it’s quite different from the traditional sound Mustangs are known for. This time the sound is more of an angry scream than a bass filled rumble. That can be attributed to the flat plane crank that throws at 180 degree intervals, instead of 90 degrees like most American V8s. Thanks to this, the GT350 can scream up to 8250 RPM producing a whopping 526HP and 429 pound-feet of torque. The motor is a masterpiece, but it also has the sound to match. Another first is the active exhaust, with a flip of a switch it turns up the noise that emanates from the quad tips. The benefit is it’s quiet enough to not wake the neighbors when it needs to be and loud enough to wake the dead when you want. There are many things that set the GT350R apart from all other muscle cars on the market, the engine is just one of them.
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Even at first glance there is no mistaking the snake for your run of the mil Mustang. From the front, there is a more aggressive front splitter to keep it grounded, as well as ducts in the front and side to keep the brakes cooled. The brakes are two-piece cross-drilled rotors measuring 394mm up front, paired and with 6 piston Brembo calipers. It also has 380mm rotors with 4 piston Brembo calipers for the rear. This thing has a lot of bite to go with the its massive bark. Another first ever are mass-produced carbon fiber wheels only weighing 18 pounds a piece. Paired with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires that are known for there superb performance. That’s a lot of stats, but the most important is that it reduces unsprung weight and rotational mass. Meaning the snake will pull harder while giving unparalleled amounts of grip. Lateral acceleration is 1.09g’s meaning that the GT350R can be thrown into corners without fear of losing traction.
Just when you thought Ford couldn’t have done anything else to make this car the best Mustang ever built; they surprise everyone with another trick up their sleeve. The GT350R is the first Mustang to feature MagneRide dampers. What that means is the dampers can adjust as quickly as every 7 millisecond, resulting in a ride that responds to every bit of the road even in the worse conditions. In addition, the GT350R has adjustable driving modes allowing drivers to customize their driving experience. For all its performance, it would be an injustice to overlook the interior. Not only is it top notch, but revolutionary when compared to all previous Mustangs. The steering wheel is a flat bottomed wheel wrapped in leather and Alcantara with red stitching. Seating includes a pair of heavily bolstered Recaros. Constructed with Miko suede designed to keep you planted even while the Shelby is going sideways. The transmission is a 6 speed TREMEC, it has a smooth engagement with a strong feel with every shift. On top of this purpose driven interior, you have an arsenal of buttons that control steering feel and drive modes. Of course you have an option of disabling all the driving aids for maximum effort.
Ford really has pulled out all stops when it comes to the 2016 GT350R making it worth every bit of the $61,295 starting price. While there are many individual pieces that amaze, the real wonder is how well they all come together. Ford and Shelby have made arguably the best Mustang in history. The vehicle is composed enough to cruise around town and comfortable enough to brave rush hour traffic. With a flip of a switch, the well mannered beast can become a wild animal and dominate any race track in the right hands. The car begs to be pushed all the way to its 8250 redline and it rewards the driver for wringing every bit out of it. No radio needed, the 5.2L plays a heavenly soundtrack that would leave anyone with an ear to ear grin. It’s versatility makes it a performance car that doesn’t make you sacrifice, other than a back seat. Ford has given us a shining example of why this era is the golden age of automotive performance. The 2016 Shelby GT350R is one of the greatest performance cars to ever come out of Detroit and puts the world on notice.
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2016 LINCOLN MKX BLACK LABEL A STEP ABOVE By Daniel Bulgarelli
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Not too long ago I had the luxury (no pun intended) of driving the Lincoln MKC and now here I am with the MKX. When driving these Lincolns the feeling that jumped out to me was refinement. It was more than just a smorgasbord of options and features; it was how all of the features complemented one another and worked to make a wonderful driving experience. The MKC did a wonderful job of that and the MKX takes it to another level. As a bigger guy I always appreciate space. Airplane seats, backseats, and even roller coasters seem to have gotten smaller as I’ve grown up. When I slid into the driver’s seat of the MKX I felt like Goldilocks must have felt on her third try. The seat wasn’t too small (a pleasant change of pace) and it wasn’t too big, in fact it was just right. The soft, supple leather had just the right softness to welcome you into a luxury vehicle. Lincoln was generous enough to give us the Black Label trim and they left no stone unturned. The leather wrapped steering well lead to the leather console and armrest. Just as I had described with the seat, it was soft, supple leather. The details of the cockpit were similar to what I saw in the MKC. The gear shifter was a series of buttons along the left side of the center console, which may take a time or two in the car to become acquainted with, is a really nice feature. It frees up a lot of space in the center and it’s a fun talking piece with your friends. The memory seats, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and my personal favorite – the massaging seats – all lead to a nearly perfect driver’s seat.
Did I say nearly perfect? I did. As much as I enjoyed this vehicle there was a fly in the ointment when it comes to the driver’s seat. Well, actually two flies but that’s not the phrase. The first only a few people such as myself will have an issue and the second I feel will be more widespread. The first issue I had was headroom. The fully adjustable seat just didn’t go down low enough for me. I found myself having to lean my head into the beautiful moon roof area while I drove. As I said, I’m a big guy and head room tends to be an issue for me in many cars which is why I really appreciate it when I have it. The MKX didn’t have quite enough for me, but I’d guess I’m in the 1% in this category. The second thing that I found a bit odd was the placement of the side mirror adjustment. I couldn’t reach it from my natural seating position forcing me to lean forward to adjust the mirrors. The problem with this was now I have to go with a guess and check method of mirror placements. Is it a big deal? Not really. I mean you don’t need to change your mirror positions all that often. But when Lincoln has set the bar so high, as they have with the MKC and MKX, I find myself surprised when something isn’t perfect. As for technology, much like the luxury features, the MKX has it in spades. It’s hard to pick a favorite feature so I’ll give you a taste of what I miss having given the vehicle back. Keyless entry/exit. I love the fact that I could just put the key in my pocket and be done for the day. Slide your hand in the handle and the doors unlock. Touch the handle as you leave and the doors lock. No more fumbling around and digging through my pocket.
The Ford MyTouch Synch 3 is a beautiful system that is easy to use. I love that the home screen splits into three areas even when using navigation. If that wasn’t enough, you can move some of your information in between the gauges in the driver’s console. A lot of manufacturers offer a lot of technology these days, but very few have worked as well as the Synch system in my opinion. When you add other features such as chairs that are heated/cooled as well as massaging, you are in for a treat. I recently moved out into the country a bit and deer in the roads are a concern. Like so many, I turn my brights on and completely forget to turn them off when someone starts heading my way. Yes, I admit to being that annoying driver that doesn’t always turn his brights off, but I promise it is not intentional. Lincoln saved me from being that guy when they put in the auto bright control. It automatically turned on my bright lights while I was on my own and as soon as it noticed a car coming my way the brights turned off on their own as well. The rest of the MKX held up to my feelings on the driver’s seat. The second row was quite comfortable and roomier than most. The cargo area was bigger than I had expected and had buttons to let the 2nd row fold flat. Pros: Wonderfully comfortable heated/ cooled front seats,Tremendous driving– acceleration, handling, and braking, All of the little extras Cons: Side mirror controls moved closer, Head room
I’ve told you how it feels to sit in an MKX but you’re probably at least a bit curious about how it drives. Let me put your minds at ease and maybe motivate you to take one out for a test drive. It is a lot of fun to drive. It has more than enough power and handles better than many cars out there. While you may not be challenging those new 727 hp Mustangs I’ve been seeing on the news, you’ll have more than enough power to beat people on that green light, get yourself on the highway, and pass with ease. The ride is as smooth and quiet as the chairs are soft and luxurious. The Lincoln MKX did not disappoint. It is a luxury vehicle deserving of the title. The engineers at Lincoln thought of everything. While everyone can focus on the big things such as heated/cooled seats, 360 degree view when backing up, and leather seats, thinking of the small things that help you stand out takes more effort. It’s quite a feeling to walk up to your Lincoln at night and watch it light up for you, the mirrors come back out, the emblem projected out on to the ground before you.
2016 Lincoln MKX Black Label Engine: 2.7L V6, Twin Turbocharged Horsepower: 330 hp @ 4750 rpm Torque: 370 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic 0-60: 6.3 secs MSRP: $57,970 Overall Score- 9.0 out of 10
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2016 HYUNDAI GENESIS FIT FOR A DUKE By Kyle Edward
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Hyundai has continually upped their game when it comes to luxury vehicles now tagged as Genesis. Very soon we will see a replacement for the Equus under the Genesis brand. But for now we have the Genesis as the top tier model. It packs the luxury and performance of better known luxury brands with a pricetag more accessible to mainstream America. While many features come standard, this car is anything but standard. the interior of any vehicle must meet the needs of the driver. This is especially true in the luxury market as the interior has a way of separating the champions from the also-rans. The Genesis makes a bold push into the luxury market with many features that you would expect from the traditional powerhouses. What really sets the Genesis apart here is the $38,000 starting price. It is much easier to stay under budget while getting all of the features you want in this vehicle than a 5-series BMW or an E-Class Mercedes; two popular luxury brands upon which Hyundai has its sites set. Our press car came equipped with the Signature, Tech, and Ultimate packages. Even with all of these packages, the price tag stays under $60,000 and gives you every bit of luxury one could want. This exhaustive list of features gave us more than we need everything we could want, even if we didn’t know it yet. As we said before, Hyundai has done a wonderful job of blending safety, performance, and luxury; this is obvious when we look at the options that come in these packages.
For our safety concerns, Hyundai included HID headlights, blind spot detection, lane departure warning/assist, haptic steering wheel, front and rear parking assist, as well as a Heads Up Display, or HUD. I was a fan of all of these features, especially the Heads Up Display; however I did find the lane departure assist to be a bit overly aggressive, particularly around curves on the expressway. Our luxury and convenience features are nearly too many to mention. The highlights for us were the power panoramic sunroof, the leather appointed seats with thigh extender, side bolster, and memory settings, power rear sunshade, a fantastic 17 speaker sound system, and a power trunk lid among others. In the luxury marketplace it comes down to the little things and Hyundai did a wonderful job with the finer points. The cabin is a polished and refined haven tucked away, behind a potent 3.8 liter V6. the Genesis is a heavy car and this shows up not with the acceleration, but in the corners. It handles the weight well, with the it being distributed in a way that helps performance; but you certainly feel the weight. The steering can feel a bit dull, but it is more than adequate for this type of car. This car may not be the best for a slalom course, but you won’t find yourself being left behind heading around the curves. Regardless of the engine you choose, the Genesis comes with an 8 speed transmission, and a very good one at that. I found it to be one of the best I have ever driven. It’s quick, crisp shifts really make driving it that much better. Unlike other 8 speed transmissions, it doesn’t hunt for 7th and 8th gear; and when you need to put the power down, it shifts quickly even at redline. Even with all of the power the 5.0 offers the 8 speed still handles it with ease.
Combine all of this with the adaptive cruise control and lane guidance, you can soak up those long miles on road trips with ease. Hyundai did something special with the Genesis. They wanted to run with the big dogs of the luxury world and they built a car that could join the pack. Building a luxury car is more than leather seats; it’s about style, personality, and even a little swagger. With the Genesis, it’s about the craftsmanship on the interior and the attention to detail. Hyundai added features you are only accustomed to finding in the traditional powerhouse’s sedans. Aesthetically, it is difficult to find a fault on this vehicle. That’s not to say there aren’t things that can be improved. What will probably prevent people from buying, or even considering, the Genesis is that it is a Hyundai. You can see that Hyundai is trying to mitigate that by removing the typical slanted H logo and developing a crest unique to the Genesis. Will this be enough? Will people be willing to take a shot on a wonderful car if it doesn’t come from a brand that others will envy? Only time will tell.
Pros: Great value, available features, exterior styling Cons: No V8 option 2016 Hyundai Genesis 3.8 Engine: 3.8L V6 Horsepower: 311 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: 293 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm Transmission: 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic 0-60: 6.4 secs MSRP: $38,750 Overall Score- 9.0 out of 10
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Photographs on page 10 are courtesy Audi. Photographs on page 11 are courtesy Tesla. Photographs on page 14 and 15 are courtesy Bugatti. Photographs on page 20 and 21 are courtesy Ford. All car brands are © their respective owners. All other content is © DRIVE MAGAZINE. 27
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