1
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
2
JUNE 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS COTM: 2016 Lexus RX 350 F-Sport................4 News: 2017 Audi S3............................................ 10 Review: 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe..................... 12 Review: 2016 Kia K900...................................... 14 Article: German Engineering............................ 17 Review: 2016 Scion FR-S................................... 18
LEXUS RX 350 F-SPORT
NEWS:AUDI S3
HYUNDAI SANTA FE
Review: 2016 Mini Cooper Clubman.............. 20 News: Tesla Model X.......................................... 22 Review: 2016 Ford F-150................................... 23 Review: 2016 Volvo XC60................................. 26 Letter from the Editor....................................... 28
KIA K900
ARTICLE: GERMAN ENGINEERING MINI COOPER CLUBMAN
FORD F-150
SCION FR-S NEWS: TESLA MODEL X
VOLVO XC60
3
CAR OF THE MONTH
4
ANYTHING BUT NORMAL: 2016 LEXUS RX 350 F-SPORT
BY KYLE EDWARD 5
6
Crossovers, we see them every day, they are a great option simply because they are so versatile. Over the years, minivans have faded away and crossovers have really come into the spotlight as the driver’s choice. Mainly because they offer nearly as much functionality plus they look and drive much better than that old van. Many crossovers today are falling into the boring category, there is nothing special or cool about them and they lack any sense of style or pizazz. However, that has never been the case with the Lexus RX. Since 1998, the RX has always been anything but normal. It’s styling cues have always been out of the box whether you liked it or not. It’s no surprise when they unveiled the all-new body style for 2016, it was stunning. More unique than ever before, adding a large front angular grill and sharp lines. At first glance, you will notice a modern design theme which boasts sharp edges a giant front grill and wide narrow headlamps. They added a lot of LED lights to create an even finer, high-end design. Before the RX was a mundane but with
this all new design I think it’s anything but normal, especially when you option the 20-inch wheels. So you’re purchasing a luxury crossover, yeah it’s still a crossover but at least you decided to purchase something with a personality. But it still needs to be functional and versatile. Thankfully the engineers kept that in mind. You will be very pleased with the interior storage as it’s full of little nooks and crannies for phones and whatever else you might bring along. I was personally impressed with the rear seat, although I was not able to spend much time back there, it offers an abundance of legroom plus it’s nice and wide giving you lots of comfy space. For cargo purposes, the rear seats can fold flat, giving you all of that extra cargo space for that trip to Lowes. Being a Lexus it’s full of luxurious amenities like heated/cooled seats, plush leather, heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control and a very cool heads up display. The infotainment system features the latest system from Lexus which has an oversized screen which is controlled by a mouse-like system. It’s not my
favorite system, however with this giant screen, it makes it a lot better. We had the privilege of reviewing the F-Sport model which included an LCD gauge display with an emphasis on the tachometer. I personally loved that sporty touch, it made the vehicle feel even more like a spaceship. They really were able to offer a bunch a great and useable tech into the RX as well, with features such as laser guided cruise control, an optional heads-up display and so many parking sensors and cameras you’d need to be blind to hit something. No, it’s not a race car or even close to being one. The only engine being a 3.5L V-6 making 295 hp @ 6300 rpm, it’s does remarkably well with a 0-60 time of 7.9 seconds. It would be great to see a turbo option especially since it’s slower than its competition, but has the looks of a rocket ship. It handles very well for its size, the steering feel is precise while being relaxed and the suspension is stiff but it doesn’t sacrifice comfort. Lexus did an excellent job with the all new RX, it’s everything you would need a crossover to be and so much more.
Pros: Unique Style, Luxurious Interior, Roomy back seat Cons: Needs more power
2016 Lexus RX F-sport Engine: 3.5L V6 Horsepower: 295 hp @ 6300 rpm Torque: 267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm Transmission: 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic 0-60: 7.9 secs MSRP: $49,125 Overall Score- 9.0 out of 10
7
8
9
GOOD THINGS COME IN SMALL PACKAGES
By Andre Evans
Good things most certainly do
The Quattro is nothing short
the openness of the cabriolet, there is a
come in small packages and a prime
of sublime and responsive. With power
style available to buyers. There are a few
example of is the 2017 Audi S3. Long
being put down by all 4 wheels, it makes
distinguishing characteristics to set the S3
viewed as the other German brand, Audi
the S3 the perfect 4-season performance
apart from both the previous S3 and its A3
has proven an innovator in automotive
car. Audi is claiming significant tweaks
brethren. While the 2015 S3 had a more
performance. They have also made gi-
to the AWD system, sending more power
rounded appearance, the current genera-
ant strides as one of the premier luxury
to the rear wheels for a more dynamic
tion has a far more angular and aggressive
brands. The latest release from Ingolstadt
driving experience. The suspension has
look and stance to set itself apart. New for
is a great mixture of performance, func-
been reworked giving the S line an inch
this year is the optional matrix LED head-
tionality, and luxury.
drop all the way around. The transmission
lights for superb night time visibility. The
is all new for 2017 with the brand new
front air damns are larger as well as the
turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. With
seven-speed S tronic with a wet clutch. It
grille with the signature Audi rings. The
a DOHC (dual overhead cam) and 16
replaces the outgoing six-speed. In Addi-
S3 comes standard with 18” wheels with
valves, it is good for 305 hp and 295 lb-ft
tion to the performance, S3 has great fuel
an option for 19” wheels, which should be
of torque. Both are slight bumps from the
economy getting an estimated 23 mpg in
the go to, as they look absolutely superb.
former version of the S3. For a vehicle
the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
The color availability for the S3 has grown
classified as a subcompact, that’s quite the
As far as the exterior goes, there
from 7 to 12 different options. The new
punch to rocket you up to 60 mph in an es-
are 4 versions of the S3 available: hatch-
colors are Ara Blue, Cosmic Blue, Nano
timated 4.6 seconds. Of course the engine
back, sedan, sportback, and cabriolet. That
Gray, Tango Red, Vegas Yellow, and
has some help from Audi’s world famous
means there is an S3 for everyone whether
Daytona Gray Pearl.
Quattro AWD system.
you want the functionality of the hatch or
10
The heart of the S3 is a 2.0L
Inside, S3 sports the same 7” screen but has a few new goodies made available. The biggest being the optional award winning Virtual Cockpit. It focuses on a more immersive user experience that allows you to get all the information you need including maps and contact information in a 12.3” screen that replaces the traditional gauge cluster. It is fully customizable which allows the drivers to make their own. The steering wheel is redesigned with a 3 spoke flat bottom design which is also heated. The seats are highly bolstered to hug the driver and have an optional massage feature to limit driver fatigue. The interior is a great mixture of technology, simplicity, and luxury. There are several additional features to help aid with safety including the Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Emergency Assist. All in all, this Audi offers all the goods and does so while being reasonably priced. It can be completely customized whatever way you like it, which means it appeals to a wider array of buyers. It has the looks to set it apart from other vehicles on the road today. The performance is world class and the driving experience is engaging. It checks all the boxes for most people’s needs. It has the legendary Quattro system and gives us a taste of the future with features like Virtual Cockpit. Audi as always proving to live their motto “Truth in Engineering”.
11
2016 HYUNDAI SANTA FE LIMITED AWD VANILLA NEVER TASTED SO GOOD By Aaron Starnes
12
The new Hyundai Santa Fe Limited Ultimate package is a sleek, powerful grocery getter with a dash of comfort and luxury. The SUV market is awash with cars that seem pretty bland. If you squint, it can be tough to tell one shape from another. Power options are comparable and so is fuel mileage. In a word, the field is pretty vanilla. That is until you take a closer look, after a taste of the Hyundai Santa Fe, vanilla may become your new favorite flavor. Inside the Santa Fe feels roomy with loads of head room. The dash is laid out in a logical, functional way. In typical Hyundai style, the air conditioning controls are separated from the stereo and navigation controls. Most controls are well placed, I especially liked the simple-to-use cruise control settings under the driver’s right thumb on the steering wheel. Also on the steering wheel are stereo, phone and heads up menu controls. Audiophiles will be pleased with the 12-speaker infinity sound system. The front seats are firm but comfortable. They both are heated and cooled and with nice bolsters but the driver’s seat has the added luxury of a fully adjustable lumbar support. It can be dialed to according to preference for height as well as depth. This is a nice feature for those who find stationary lumbar support either too high or too low. The middle row seats are very comfortable as well with plenty of leg and elbow room for adults. They slide forward and back and have integrated anchors for
lashing down a car seat. You can keep the kiddies cool with screens which roll up out of the doors to shade the windows. This is a clever feature that would also be good for road trips. Pop open the one-touch power lift gate with either the key fob or by using the discreet touch pad, and the third row folds flat easily using straps on the backs of the seats. There are cleverly placed levers to fold the second row from the rear of the car. There are a/c vents for passengers in the back built into the B pillars and the third row has independent air conditioning controls that can be over ridden from the dashboard. The lift gate is lowered by the touch of a button which is illuminated at night. Another clever feature is the 115 volt AC plug located in the cargo area behind the third row. This accessory lets you power devices you would use at home. Imagine using a small compressor to inflate beach toys rather than blowing into them until you nearly pass out. The Santa Fe has not had a substantial facelift in the last two years. Why mess with a good thing? This SUV looks good. It has crisp lines and is proportionate. The car isn’t trying to convey an off-road or macho presence. Designers hit a good balance of muscle and grace with this car. It’s not overly feminine or masculine. This is a kid carrier that has looks that both mom and dad can agree on.
Under the hood dwells a 3.3 L V6 that generates 290 horses that make two ton Santa Fe accelerate like a much lighter car. The engine is backed up by a snappy six speed automatic. It feels good to lay the accelerator flat, but even when driven responsibly the Santa Fe powerful V6 is thirsty. The EPA estimates the car will get 22mpg on the highway and 17 around town. Our test vehicle managed about 18 mpgs around town, which is a little better than the estimates but not that great when. The steering feels heavily assisted which does away with practically all resistance. There are three different settings, normal, comfort and sport. The difference between them is slight, I preferred normal, this is just one more bell to go with the rest of the whistles. Other features include hill descent assist and blind spot assist. I had no occasion to use the descent assist, but the blind spot assist comes in handy. I encountered heavy rainfall and it seemed to me the car would benefit from a speedier setting. The handsome, up-swept side windows look good from the outside but don’t do much to enhance visibility from the driver’s chair. It’s likely that the AWD feature on the model we tested has something to do with the less than great mpg numbers. In a climate that receives little to no snowfall it might be a better to opt for the two-wheel-drive platform. The Hyundai Santa Fe is a good
looking option for young families or anyone that needs more room than a sedan provides. As with all Hyundai automobiles it comes with an outrageously good warranty. The build quality is solid and the amenities abound. The price comes in just under what a similarly optioned domestic SUV does, and the city mpg is a little better. The driving experience is smooth and acceleration and braking are both crisp. This is definitely a vehicle to consider when shopping the SUV market. Pros: Power and acceleration, Sound system, Comfy seats Cons: Poor visibility
2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited Engine: 3.3L V6 Horsepower: 290 hp @ 6400 rpm Torque: 252 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic 0-60: 7.1 secs MSRP: $34,508 Overall Score- 8.0 out of 10
13
2016 KIA K900 KOREAN LUXURY AT ITS FINEST By Kyle Edward
14
No matter how open-minded we are, first impressions are always important. Whether it’s a person, a restaurant, a car, or anything else, the feeling we get when we first lay eyes upon it impacts our thoughts on everything from there on. I couldn’t tell right away that it was a Kia. The front end looks good with its large headlamps, but what I was impressed with was the rear tail lights featuring large crisp LED taillights. While the exterior styling may not jump out at you like a MercedesBenz S-Class, it’s still unique. When you get closer to the K900 with an open mind, you really begin to see what makes this a great car. The interior is full of Napa leather and Alcantara, which makes me feel like I’m sitting in the lap of luxury. The seat is soft and supple allowing you to slip right in as if you were settling into your favorite chair in your living room. I really enjoyed the fact that the seat controls were on the door panel and easily accessible, as opposed to the standard position below the seat between the base and the door. Every part of this seat is customizable. The two pieces that I appreciated most were the power adjustable headrest and the seat extending out to give better comfort and support to your legs. Adding to the comfort and convenience of the chairs is the fact that they are climate controlled. Everyone loves a nicely heated seat in the winter yet we dread it in the summer. The ability to cool the seats means you don’t have to fear wearing shorts to the course or the boat during those steaming hot summer months. I consider myself to be a rather tech savvy guy. Our K900 had a lot of tech options on it and many of
them were easy to use while some took a bit of time to learn. First, I’ll tell you about some of the things I loved about this car. The Heads Up Display (HUD) the system worked very well projecting the digital speedometer to make it seem as though it was hovering just in front of the hood of the car. Add to that the blind spot monitor was also displayed through the HUD. Even better was the fact that when you had a route planned into the navigation system the turns and distance were displayed next to your speed as well. The HUD was very intuitive and truly allowed you to keep your eyes on the road. Combine that with the fact that you want to keep your hands on the soft leather wrapped steering wheel and Kia may have found a way to make us safer drivers! The K900 also comes with HD radio, which, for those of you that aren’t familiar with this feature, delivers better clarity in the sound as well as extra channels. The sound was fantastic whether I was listening to low levels and talk radio or rocking out. This, however, was the area that required a bit of a learning curve. The
controls run through an iDrive like system. However, they have added so many features that the controls change depending on what you are doing at the time. For instance, switching between your presets is quite easy when that is what you have on the screen. However, if you have the navigation/map on the screen it takes a little while to figure out how to go through your presets and not just scan every station being broadcast. As I said, being a fairly tech savvy guy, I got there eventually. The backseat of the K900 blew me away. To say the seats were roomy would be an understatement. In the K900, I had enough room to sit comfortably and even cross my legs. The seats also had the heating/cooling feature, which is usually saved for the lucky front row passengers. Not only was Kia thoughtful enough to share the ability to cool the back, they also allowed the back seats to recline. When riding in the K900, you won’t have to yell “Shotgun!”, as the back seat is nearly as comfortable as the front. The trunk of a car, to me at least, is like a referee or an offensive lineman-
you only notice them when they aren’t very good. I have two major standards when it comes to trunk size. One, can it fit my golf clubs? Two, can it fit my friends’ golf clubs as well? Admittedly, the second part isn’t as important, but in a car this nice, I want my friends to sit inside and see how nice it is. The K900 allows for plenty of space for your clubs, your friends’ clubs, and a small cooler that you can sneak onto the back of your cart. Another nice touch to the trunk was the push-button close. This is a feature generally reserved for SUVs; it was quite nice to see on the sedan. Nothing earthshattering or groundbreaking, but again, I did appreciate its inclusion. When it comes to driving, all you need to do is hit the start button and hear the 5.0L V-8, 420 HP engine roar to life. Let me tell you, this is one mean sounding engine. As you surpass the 3k-RPM range, you get this remarkable growl sound, while being shoved back into your seat. The K900 really excels in the powertrain department, sprinting to 60 in just 5.5 seconds. It delivers quickoff-the-line power and a smooth driving
15
experience. The power supply is linear and long gearing makes for a very solid responsive power delivery. When you really punch it off the line, you will get some wheel spin and then it just blasts off. It’s really impressive, like that of a flagship German. However, this car’s big downfall is steering. Unfortunately, it’s very unsettled and numb, even in sport mode. It just feels like an old Lincoln Town Car. Okay maybe not that bad, but you get the idea. Driving modes include ECO, Normal, Snow and Sport. There is little difference between each mode. If responsive steering is something you’re not too picky about then you should have no problems. But don’t expect the K900 to handle like a 7 Series. Parking…. Well, this is one big car. Thankfully we have our 3D bird’s eye view camera to aid us in the parking department. I also appreciated the tight turning radius that makes parking and other maneuvers easy. Living in Michigan we are faced every year with long, bitter cold winters, which normally bring a lot of snow. Unfortunately, the K900 is only available in Rear Wheel Drive (RWD). Yes, the rear drive is nice for handling on warm summer days when the conditions are perfect. But it’s a 4,555-pound car. Rear wheel drive shouldn’t be the only option. If they want to seriously compete in the high-end luxury segment, they will need still need to add an AWD option. There’s an old saying that goes something along the lines of “Shoot for the moon, because even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars”. This obviously refers to setting the bar high, which Kia did with the K900. They set the bar very high, and even though they may not have gotten all the way there, they came pretty darn close. They are trying to catch up to the big boys and they came out strong. They packed an incredible amount of luxury into a reasonable price tag. In my opinion, there are only two things they need to overcome. First, they need to offer All Wheel Drive for those of us living north of the MasonDixon Line. Secondly, and this will be the tougher of the two, they need to overcome their own brand. For the most part, the people that can afford this car aren’t looking at Kia. The people that usually buy from Kia can’t afford this car. Kia hasn’t reached its goal yet, but they landed among the stars. Can they take the next step and land on the moon? Pros: Powerful V8 Engine, Luxurious Interior, Price Point Cons: Steering Feel, No AWD Offered
2016 KIA K900 Engine: 5.0L V8 Horsepower: 420 hp @ 6400 rpm Torque: 376 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm Transmission: 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic 0-60: 5.5 secs MSRP: $61,900 Overall Score- 8.0 out of 10
16
THE GERMAN ENGINEERING PEDESTAL By Brett R. Davies Why have the German’s created the engineering standard in the automotive industry? To understand this question, it is necessary to study the history of the German people. The Germans have always had an incredible work ethic. During the times before the United States existed, the German people have taken pride in what they do, from beer to engineering, for an example. The stalwart beer brand, Hofbrahaus, began in 1589 in Munich, Germany. The Duke of Bavaria was fed up with the typical beer of the time, and demanded new laws that governed better beer. They were called the German Purity Laws. The beers that were brewed from that point on had to adhere to the strict purity laws that were placed on German brewers, including Hofbrahaus which led to some great tasting brews. These strict laws and standards became second nature to the German people and seemed to rub off on their approach to everything, like engineering an automobile. Fast forward to 1886, when Karl Benz patented his Motorwagen. This patent allowed Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft to produce the first Mercedes car. It is regarded as the first (Motorwagen) and second (Mercedes) gasoline powered automobiles. These feats are often overlooked due to Henry Ford’s creation of the Model T and the dominance of Ford’s factory line, which led to a mass production of Ford automobiles. What happened from this point in time is that the Ford Motor Company became focused on the mass production of cars and dominating a new market in the United States, while the Germans and Mercedes-Benz’s approach was producing a quality automobile becoming subtly dominant in a different way. The German companies started with slow production that yielded a very high quality
product and it is what people understand as the definition of luxury today. The modern era of German automakers maintain this elevated standard of engineering. Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz are the most popular German brands. All of these automakers are considered luxury vehicles. Volkswagen is the largest automaker in the world. Audi, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz are in a league of their own when it comes to being revolutionary. These car companies seem to set the standard each and every year with their new features and technology. There are many stats out there, but understanding a dominant company is looking at what that company invests in research and development (R & D). These German manufacturers spend over 37% annually of their gross profit into R & D estimated to be around $54 billion Euros to maintain the highest revolutionary standards in engineering. This heavy investment in R & D leads to unmatched work discipline, great employee benefits, health coverage for their employees, and technological discoveries unseen in the domestic automotive industry. Researching the domestic brands (Ford, GM, and Chrysler), there are often investments around a hundred million to maybe a billion, but nothing ever close to the German investments. The focus of the American auto industry has always been about marketing and supply and demand. Ford and GM grew incredibly fast because they fueled an industry and essentially created a whole new way of life in the transportation world. There are even conspiracies that exist. Between 1938 and 1950, when public transit was at its height, General Motors and other automobile companies invested in public transit lines in twenty five different cities, monopolized the industry
and destroyed public transit companies that forced people to purchase cars. Although, there is much evidence that points to this occurrence, it is still considered a conspiracy today. Anyway, it is no coincidence that from 1945-1963, Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche came into existence. The market for the automobile was created and the Germans understood how to build a quality car. This new market needed to yield million of vehicles for consumers and GM and Ford were focused on supplying these autos to consumers as quickly as possible, especially because this was their market. The Germans did not have this pressure. Their focus was on engineering a well-built car. The Germans created the automobile and the Americans created the automobile industry. It has always been the focus and dedication to quality that the Germans build luxury, especially today, when all of the most popular German auto makers are considered luxury brands. Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, and Volkswagen are all companies that have state of the art vehicles and their only draw-back are their price tags. But just like the old saying goes, you get what you pay for.
17
2016 SCION FR-S
THE SCINTILLATING SCION By Brett R. Davies 18
Toyota’s Scion FR-S is a fun little sports car. Comparatively, this car competes with the Mazda MX-5 Miata and the Subaru BRZ. The competition is steep for Scion, however, what this car brings is value and handling. Scion is producing a track ready vehicle and not breaking the bank at a base MSRP of $26,100. As of late, sales of Scion vehicles has plummeted and many believe it is because the hype surrounding this newer brand faded when Scion fans purchased their vehicles a few years back. Toyota is making moves to re-establish the enthusiasm behind their fan-base. What is surprising about the 2016 Scion FR-S is that it still contains rear wheel drive. This car is built for a driver. It has many driver friendly highlights. The FR-S has a super tight and responsive 6 speed manual 200-hp 2.0-liter flat-four engine and lightweight, rear-wheel-
drive chassis, and a sporty interior with a silver accented steering wheel, dash, and doors. The boxer style engine is unique and exhaust note is throaty and better-than expected. However, there is a drawback in the interior with excessive road noise. But there is a Pioneer Infotainment system in the dash with a seven inch touch screen display giving it an aftermarket look that is factory standard to combat the loudness. There is also an available BeSpoke speaker upgrade for $900. Toyota developed a stiffer front suspension and recalibrated rear shocks for better handling. With this kind of suspension, it really hugs the road on tight turns. The throaty exhaust makes the car extremely fun to drive at lower speeds. However, the acceleration is a slightly disappointing, clocking 0-60 mph at around 7.1 seconds. The upgrade to automatic transmission is $1100. At
the end of the day, the Scion FR-S is a solid vehicle at its price point. Pros: Price point, Driving dynamics, Exterior styling Cons: Excessive road noise
2016 Scion FR-S Engine: 2.0L Flat4 aka Boxer Style Horsepower: 200 hp @ 7000 rpm Torque: 151 lb-ft @ 6400 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual 0-60: 7.1 secs MSRP: $25,305 Overall Score- 8.0 out of 10
19
2016 MINI COOPER CLUBMAN GREAT THINGS DO COME IN SMALL UH, MIDSIZE PACKAGES By Dan Bulgarelli
20
Until the Mini Cooper Clubman had been dropped off in my driveway, my entire history with the company can be summed up in movies and a Zipcar rental. While I didn’t get to experience a high-speed chase through the streets of Paris a la Jason Bourne, I did enjoy the tight turning radius and overall maneuverability. I may not have been in a car chase but that didn’t stop me from pretending as I traversed the seemingly endless roundabouts here in Metro-Detroit. As I mentioned above, my only real experience with a Mini Cooper before the Clubman was a short rental driving my wife to the airport in New York City. I remember it being fun to drive but the backseat was less than useful. The fact that the Clubman has four doors gave me hope that things would be different. Boy were they ever! The backseat was more than roomy enough to fit two adults easily. I’m sure we could have squeezed a third on back there, but I don’t think comfort would be a word thrown around in that situation. As it was, we had four people sitting comfortably and we were still able to put things in the back. The other thing that stood out to me with this Mini was that it had a manual transmission. Those are quickly becoming a rarity these days. I won’t claim to be an expert on manual transmissions, but this has to be one of the easiest to drive in a car today. It just feels so smooth and it’s fairly forgiving if you are a little light or heavy on the clutch. To go with the stick shift, you have the option of driving in Normal, Sport, or Eco mode. Whichever option you choose comes with a witty phrase on the video
screen and a quick summary of what each does. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that Sport helps you drive more aggressively and Eco helps you save gas, but it is neat to see the miles you save by driving in Eco mode, which you can watch on your digital gauge. If you’ve read my articles in the past, you may notice that I usually start off talking about all of the tech and luxury features included in the car. With the Mini, there really weren’t a lot. It didn’t have a rear camera or a blind spot monitoring system, though both options are available. While not loaded with tech, Mini did provide a well-rounded and equipped car that has the sticker price of a mere $26,000. Before I looked at the price, I took it for a spin and played around with it. I guessed the car would sell from the low to mid $30k so I was quite surprised to see what the cost actually is. Again, the car wasn’t loaded with tech, but it felt to me as if this was a car you get because you actually enjoy the driving aspect of driving. In a lot of cars, I enjoy the massaging seats, the heads up display, or even the ability to change the color of the ambient lighting. With the Clubman, I enjoyed the exception feel for the road
this vehicle had, how quickly it reacted to what I wanted. I remember speaking to an Air Force pilot many years ago and he told me the F-16 was so sensitive that if you thought about a maneuver you’d already be doing it. The Mini felt like that to me. If I took a turn a little tighter or faster than normal, it was no problem. It just did everything I asked as if it were nothing. While I really enjoyed my time with the Mini Cooper Clubman there were a few tradeoffs to some of the features. For one, despite the fact that this is a bigger Mini, it is still a Mini. With four people riding inside, I wasn’t able to fit my golf clubs in the back, let alone my three passengers’. Mini also opted against a traditional hatchback that many of its competitors use. Instead, they go for two doors that meet in the middle and open out, similar to French doors on your house. This is incredibly convenient and keeps people (like me) from hitting their heads on raised hatchbacks that aren’t quite high enough. Unfortunately, where the doors meet just happens to be in the middle, which tends to limit what the driver can see through the rear view mirror. The last of what I noticed is a pretty common issue that many of us grapple with. Power vs. MPG. I had
the smallest Clubman engine (134 hp) which resulted in me averaging between 32-37 mpg depending on what and where I was going. I wasn’t blowing anyone off the line but I also wasn’t having to stop at the gas station very often either. These aren’t bad things, per say, they are merely tradeoffs and I just want you to be aware of them going into it. Overall, I did enjoy my time with the Mini. It is so much fun to drive and now that I’ve given it back, those roundabouts aren’t nearly as much fun. Pros: Feel for the road – so much fun to drive, Headroom – even as a big guy, I was very comfortable, Stick easy to handle, forgiving, Sport and Eco mode – depends on my mood Cons: Rear doors splitting in the middle made it difficult for me to see behind 2016 MINI Cooper Clubman Engine: 1.5L Inline3, Twin Turbocharged Horsepower: 134 hp @ 4400 rpm Torque: 162 lb-ft @ 1250 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual 0-60: 8.0 secs MSRP: $24,100 Overall Score- 9.0 out of 10
21
TESLA HAS DONE IT AGAIN! By Andre Evans
There is no time like the present, the amazing innovations coming from Tesla Motors prove that. Their most recent release is not only turning heads but the Model X is showing that the future for electric cars is downright exciting. So much so that even the most die-hard fans of the internal combustion engine can’t help but love what Tesla is doing. If you are unfamiliar with the American upstart, they started by releasing the Tesla Roadster, a reworked electric version of the Lotus Elise. After many growing pains, they released the award winning Model S. Their third vehicle is the Model X a SUV that delivers on all fronts. The P90D is the ludicrous version the Model X that lays down numbers to make many sports cars green with envy. Just at first glance you can tell that you are looking at something different from your everyday SUV. The Model X has a simplified but aesthetically pleasing front end. With LED accented headlights and small opening for the front grill. Its profile is definitely a stand out. The wheels are 20” standard but have 3 more options including the favorites 22” onyx black wheels. The door handles are flush with the body. Then with a push of a button the falcon wing doors rise. Something you don’t expect to see on most exotic cars let alone a 5500 lb. SUV. While they might look a bit ostentatious, the doors are quite functional in making the rear seats far more accessible, parents worldwide are rejoicing. Let’s be honest, functional or not they are downright cool. According to
22
Elon Musk, the brains behind Tesla, they were quite the engineering feat. Move to the back of the Model X and you have another feature not expected on a SUV, an automatically deployed spoiler that helps with aerodynamics and makes it the best in its class. The lift gate is also powered, so one touch and it can open and close itself. It’s available in 9 colors Solid Black, Solid White, Titanium Metallic, Midnight Silver Metallic, Obsidian Black Metallic, Deep Blue Metallic, Silver Metallic, Pearl White Multi-Coat, and Red Multi-Coat. The heart of the ludicrousness that is the P90D is the two motors front and rear that produce 532 hp and 713 lb-ft. Unlike gas powered vehicles, the Model X has 100 percent of its torque available at all times. The flat torque curve means that the P90D pulls extremely hard. With all that power available, its able to hit 60 mph in 3.2 seconds and top out at 155mph. Most vehicles that offer that kind of performance while taking a major hit in economy. Tesla doesn’t penalize you at all, 250 miles of range in the electric motors or a “full tank” will only cost about $11.50. The P90D is also equipped with an air suspension which can adjust the height and stiffness depending on driving conditions. It also can adjust to make it easier for passengers to exit the vehicle or to unload cargo. The interior is a sight to be seen. The Model X sports a panoramic windshield which extends all the way to the edge of the front door. Meaning that with the Model X you have an
unparalleled unencumbered view of your surroundings. Inside, there are 3 different seat combos: 7 seat, 6 seat, and 5 seat. On top of all the seats it also has class leading cargo space including the front trunk. The entertainment system in the Tesla is also a standout with a 17” touch screen mounted vertically it allows you full control over all of the vehicles features. Some of those features are collision avoidance, emergency braking, and auto pilot. Auto pilot being the innovative feature allowing the vehicle to pilot itself on the freeway or other long stretches of roads. Using GPS and sensors to detect road markers and stay in lanes. The feature was implemented to reduce driver fatigue on long trips but has also been proven to be an essential safety feature. The P90D offers luxury and technology that brings us the vehicle of tomorrow today. It handles much better than any full size SUV ought to. It brings us features that even a few years ago were a fantasy to be seen on cars. The Model X makes a statement that can’t be ignored. Proving the future of electric cars is very bright. This Model X is a vehicle that can do just about anything from tearing it up at the drag strip to towing a trailer. It can do it all. Tesla has big plans for the future and just like with the auto pilot feature it looks like we are along for the ride.
2016 FORD F-150 FX4 THE LEGEND LIVES ON By Daniel Bulgarelli
23
Don’t you just hate clichés and hyperboles? They are the worst thing ever in the history of the world. When a writer uses clichés it seems like he is all style and no substance, all sizzle with no steak, right? What does this have to do with writing a review for the Ford F-150? Well, the Ford F series is the best-selling line of vehicles in America. Ever. That’s not hyperbole, that is fact. The F series has been around for 68 years and when a line of trucks has been that good for that long how do you avoid using clichés and hyperbole? I will do it my best, but I am not making any promises. As you know, the F series is exactly that, a series. There are so many options to choose from based on your needs and budget. The base F-150 XL starts out at around $26,000 and fully loaded F-450 can run well over $70,000. Needless to say, if you can’t find what you’re look-
24
The vehicle I had was an F-150 Lariat 4x4 Supercrew whose sticker price came in just shy of $60,000. When I told people what the sticker price was their initial reaction was often to question why a work truck would cost so much. However, when you open the doors and take a look at the cab, you realize it is so much more than a simple work truck. Led by the F-150, gone are the days of pickups being another tool for a job site and the subject of a country song’s lament. The F-150 can still handle everything you can throw at it when you want it to work, but it can do so much more than that.
room in a car it’s a stretch to call something roomy. The Supercrew was downright roomy and that includes the back seat. When I sat in the back I had more room there than I do in the front seat of most vehicles, including SUVs. The question then becomes, is it too big? For me, it was not. I thought it was perfect. My wife was intimidated and quickly told me that if I were to get one she would never drive it. Another check in the box for me buying one next. In all seriousness, I felt very comfortable in the driver seat and with all of the adjustments I could make it didn’t take long to get it just right. The back seat is a bench platform in a 60/40 format that can fold up to give you more storage options.
When you open the doors and get inside the cab, the first thing I noticed was the room. I’m a big guy at 6’3 and 200+ pounds and even when I have enough
As I mentioned before, this isn’t the bland work truck of yesteryear that only had an AM radio. Ford has made sure that this feels every bit as comfortable
ing for, maybe what you’re looking for doesn’t exist.
and option filled as their other vehicles. In football, they talk about a running back who can only play in certain situations because of what they can’t do. The truly special players are every down backs. This truck is an every down back. It will get down and dirty in the trenches for the first few downs but it’s just as comfortable on 3rd downs heading out and showing what else it can do. One of the things that truly surprised me about the F-150 was just how smooth the ride was. Michigan is famous for its potholes and for good reason. The truck handled these roads as if it were a luxury vehicle. Add to that, the 3.5L V6 provided more than enough power. You don’t need to worry about pulling out in traffic with this bad boy, you’ll have no problem getting up to speed. With Ford’s move to the smaller V6 with EcoBoost,
I was satisfied with the MPG, as well. I mean, it’s not a Prius and when you buy a truck this size you don’t expect it to be. That being said, you also don’t want to be at the pump every other day. I found the estimates of 16 city and 22 highway to be pretty much spot on. While the other manufacturers fight to catch up to the F-series, Ford keeps raising the bar. The F-150 will do it all for you and be ready for more.
2016 Ford F-150 FX4 Engine: 3.5L V6, Turbocharged Horsepower: 365 hp @ 5000 rpm Torque: 420 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic 0-60: 6.0 secs MSRP: $$47,380
Pros: Spacious and comfortable interior, Technology – easy to use and widespread, Power – V6 with EcoBoost is up to the challenge Cons: No diesel option
Overall Score- 9.5 out of 10
25
2016 VOLVO XC60 SCANDINAVIAN TO THE CORE By Kyle Edward
26
The 2016 Volvo XC60 is now in its seventh year but still looks great for its age. It shares lots in common with the S60 sedan, being built on the platform. Available with front- or all-wheel-drive, the XC60 is safe and actually quite fun to drive. Over its seven years, the XC60 has continued the same look, with only a new nose in 2013. Yet the deep lines, stylish angles and curved beltline remain distinctive and doesn’t look too dated. However, we really do feel it’s time to bring the XC60 up to the same level as the all-new XC90. The cabin is Scandinavian to the core, it’s clean and functional to a tee and very well constructed. It’s an extremely quiet vehicle and the front seats are exceptionally comfortable. After all, they have been designed by Swedish massage therapists. The waterfall floating center stack with real dials on its console feel unique but I would like to see an updated
system integrated, as this one lacks a large screen and feels slightly dated. The center stack is tilted toward the driver for better viewing. From a design standpoint, I especially enjoyed the calming bamboo like wood and silver accent trim. Everything considered the interior is a very relaxing place to be. Driving the XC60, makes me want to be in Sweden carving through the mountain roads, after all, who doesn’t love an exceptional driving vehicle? I can’t think of anyone. The XC60 literally drives like a dream, it’s stiff suspension hugs the road and curves as if the vehicle is on rails. It’s one of the best driving SUV’s out there for sure. Couple the superior handling with its 300 hp turbocharged engine and you have a quick 0-60 time of around 7 seconds. It’s hard to go wrong with the Volvo XC60, it does have a couple flaws like a dated multimedia system and it doesn’t boast the newest design, but hey it’s one of the safest SUV’s you can
buy plus it’s actually fun to drive. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the XC60 and would take a very close look at one if you want something that provides a calm relaxing yet fun driving experience plus the satisfaction of knowing you’re driving one of the safest vehicles on the road.
Pros: Extremely Safe, Fun To Drive, Luxurious Interior Cons: Multimedia System, Dated Exterior Design 2016 Volvo XC60 AWD T6 Platinum Engine: 3.0L Inline6, Turbocharged Horsepower: 300 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque: 325 lb-ft @ 2100 rpm Transmission: 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic 0-60: 7.0 secs MSRP: $43,350 Overall Score- 8.5 out of 10
27
DRIVE Magazine is backed by some of the most prolific minds in automotive journalism today. With years of experience in the realm, the team is well placed to add a new magazine in an industry that hasn’t seen a fresh, modern publication in decades. Our team’s unique ability to craft these seemingly antithetical precepts into a comprehendible narrative affords it nimbleness unheard of in today’s industry. However none of this would be possible without our readers and for that we are very grateful. -DRIVE STAFF
28
QUESTIONS/COMMENTS ? EMAIL Us: staff@thisisdrive.com
Photographs on page 10 and 11 are courtesy Audi. Photographs on page 12 and 13 are courtesy Hyundai. Photograph on page 17 is courtesy The Detroit Institute of Arts. Photographs on page 22 are courtesy Tesla. All car brands are © their respective owners. All other content is © DRIVE MAGAZINE. 29
30