William Maley

There will always be those who want more power in whatever they are driving. Take for example the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Its 2.0L four-cylinder produces 155 horsepower. We found it to be more than enough for driving fun, but there are those who think more power will make it better. It seems their wish could be coming true. Road & Track uncovered a VIN notice sent by Mazda to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that reveals the 2019 MX-5 Miata will a 2.0L four-cylinder producing 181 horsepower - up 26 from the current model. The question is how Mazda could reach that number. A journalist on Twitter posted a possible clue, saying the engine will feature a reworked head. It is unclear whether or not Mazda is planning on making other changes to the engine to reach 181 horsepower. As Road & Track notes, the most common aftermarket upgrades for the MX-5 (computer, exhaust, and intake) only add around 12 horsepower. A Mazda spokesman said they don't comment on future products when asked. Source: Road & Track View full article

I highly doubt it. I think GMC will be slowly dolling out information up until the fall launch.

Various luxury automakers have taken Tesla as a serious threat and are working on models to take on the start-up. The first automaker out of the gate is Jaguar which premiered the production version in Graz, Austria today. This is quick turnaround considering we only saw the concept at the 2016 LA Auto Show. Let's talk about the I-Pace's heart. Jaguar has installed two electric motors (one on each axle) producing 294 kilowatts (394 horsepower) and 512 pound-feet of torque. 0-60 mph is said to take 4.5 seconds. A 90-kWh lithium-ion battery pack is estimated to provide a range of 240 miles between charges. Plugged into a 100kW DC fast charger, the I-Pace can go from empty to an 80 percent charge. When plugged into a 230V/32A AC wall box, the I-Pace takes about 10 hours to get an 80 percent charge - "ideal for overnight charging" Jaguar notes in their press release. Like other PHEV and EVs, the I-Pace offers different brake-regeneration settings. The strongest one allows one-pedal driving. The I-Pace's structure is very different from other Jaguar models as the lithium-ion battery pack plays an integral role. Jaguar claims the I-Pace is its torsionally stiffest production model yet - mostly due to the battery pack. The low and central placement of the battery pack in the vehicle also gives 50:50 weight distribution. Design-wise, there isn't much difference between the production model and concept. The overall length and wheelbase is similar to the F-Pace, but the interior is much more spacious as there is no gas engine up front. Designers were able to push the base of the windshield forward to maximize space. The interior is very much Jaguar with a modern design and various upholstery choices including a wool blend with recycled technical suede cloth. Jaguar's Touch Pro Duo infotainment system provides two touchscreens that control various vehicle functions including audio, navigation, and climate control. When the I-Pace launches in the second-half of this year, it will be available in S, SE, and HSE trims. A First Edition model offering numerous luxury appointments will be available during the first-year of production. Customers can begin placing orders at their local Jaguar dealer beginning today. As for pricing, Jaguar will be announcing that next week when the I-Pace rolls out on the floor of the Geneva Motor Show. Source: Jaguar Press Release is on Page 2 JAGUAR CHARGES AHEAD WITH ALL-NEW ELECTRIC I-PACE Clean, smart and offering a wealth of driver assistance features, the Jaguar I-PACE delivers sports car performance, artificial intelligence (AI) enabled technologies and five-seat SUV practicality. Jaguar unveils all-electric I-PACE in live global webcast from the vehicle’s manufacturing facility in Graz, Austria Designed from the outset as a premium electric vehicle (EV), the mid-size Jaguar I-PACE SUV offers a bold aerodynamic design and interior space comparable to a larger vehicle Electrifying all-wheel drive performance from twin Jaguar-designed electric motors delivers 0-60mph acceleration in 4.5 seconds (1) 90kWh lithium-ion battery delivers an estimated 240 mile all-electric range (2); EV navigation provides range-optimized routing options Unique aluminum-intensive EV architecture delivers a rigid body structure and 50:50 weight distribution Public fast charging from 0-80 percent achievable in 40 minutes using a 100kW DC charger (3) ‘Smart Settings’ use artificial intelligence algorithms to learn driving habits and tailor the I-PACE to individual driver preferences Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) wireless updates available to ensure customers have access to the latest vehicle software Customer peace of mind from 8-year/100,000 mile battery warranty (4) and Best-in-Class Jaguar EliteCare ownership package (5) U.S. customer deliveries to begin during the second half of 2018 Since the debut of the Jaguar I-PACE Concept, U.S. customers have been registering their interest to purchase the new Jaguar I-PACE at www.jaguarusa.com As of today, Jaguar retailers can begin placing customer orders for the new I-PACE U.S. Pricing to be announced in conjunction with the vehicle’s public debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 6 at 8:00AM EST (MAHWAH, N.J.) – March 1, 2018 – Today, the Jaguar I-PACE, the first all-electric production vehicle from the Jaguar brand, has been unveiled to the world in a live webcast. Clean, smart and offering a wealth of driver assistance features, the Jaguar I-PACE delivers sports car performance, artificial intelligence (AI) enabled technologies and five-seat SUV practicality. British comedian and actor, Jack Whitehall, self-proclaimed EV enthusiast and TV presenter Jonny Smith and American tech guru iJustine, hosted a special live show as the first I-PACE rolled off the production line in at the Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing facility in Graz, Austria, where the car will be built. Designed and engineered in the UK, the I-PACE will be built in Graz, Austria, as part of Jaguar Land Rover’s manufacturing partnership with Magna Steyr. It joins the growing family of Jaguar SUVs, alongside the all-new E-PACE and multiple award-winning F-PACE. “We set out with a clean sheet approach to harness new battery electric technology with an architecture engineered from the outset to optimize EV performance, aerodynamics and interior space. The result is the I-PACE – a true Jaguar and a truly driver-focused EV,” said Ian Hoban, Jaguar Vehicle Line Director. ELECTRIC With a 432 pouch cell, 90kWh, lithium-ion battery pack, the I-PACE delivers an estimated range of 240 miles2. Owners will be able to achieve a 0-80 percent battery charge in around 40 minutes using publicly available 100kW DC rapid charging facilities3. Home charging with a 230V/32A AC wall box (7kW) will achieve the same state of charge (0-80 percent) in just over ten hours – ideal for overnight charging3. A suite of smart range-optimizing technologies includes a battery pre-conditioning system which allows the vehicle to warm or cool its battery, and cabin, to an optimal temperature while plugged in to power. By allowing the vehicle to do this while still connected to power, the system reduces the need for the vehicle to tap into its driving range to reach optimal operating temperature. PERFORMANCE Two Jaguar-designed concentric electric motors – which feature driveshafts passing through the motors themselves for compactness – are placed at each axle, producing exceptional performance and all-wheel drive, multi-surface traction. The high torque density and high-energy efficiency characteristics of the motors combine to deliver sports car performance, launching the I-PACE from a standing start to 60mph in 4.5 seconds1. This instantaneous performance is matched with exceptional ride comfort and engaging driving dynamics Jaguar customers have come to expect. The aluminum architecture uses advanced riveting and bonding technology to deliver a light, stiff body structure. Together with the structural battery pack, it has a torsional rigidity of 36kNm/degree – the highest of any current Jaguar vehicle. The battery is placed centrally between the two axles, and as low as possible with a seal between the housing and the underfloor. This location enables a 50:50 weight distribution and a low center of gravity. Together with the advanced double wishbone front and an Integral Link rear suspension with standard Active Air Suspension and optional configurable Adaptive Dynamics, this packaging delivers agile handling and outstanding ride comfort. DESIGN The Jaguar I-PACE is designed and engineered to take full advantage of its smart electric powertrain, maximizing the potential of packaging benefits EVs inherently bring. Its sleek, coupe-like silhouette was influenced by the Jaguar C-X75 supercar concept; drawing inspiration for its short, low hood, aero-enhanced roof design and curved rear window from the concept. This cab-forward design contrasts with its squared-off rear, helping reduce the coefficient of drag to just 0.29Cd. To optimize the balance between cooling and aerodynamics, the I-PACE relies on Active Vanes in the grille which open when cooling is required and close when not needed; redirecting air through the integral hood scoop, further smoothing airflow around the vehicle. Inside, customers will experience a spacious cabin highlighted by the Jaguar brand's exquisite attention to detail and sophisticated materials – including the option of a premium textile Kvadrat interior. Although classed as a mid-sized SUV by its physical footprint, the cab forward design and packaging of the EV powertrain mean the I-PACE offers interior space comparable to a larger vehicle. The I-PACE affords a rear legroom space of 35.0-in (890mm) and a useful 0.43- cu. ft. (12.3-liter) central storage compartment in a space that would ordinarily by occupied by a transmission tunnel in a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle. Also in the rear, tablet and laptop storage can be found beneath the seats; while the rear luggage compartment behind those seats offers a 25.3 cu. ft. capacity, a generous 51.0 cu. ft. is available with the second row seats folded flat. CONNECTED-CAR TECHNOLOGY The Jaguar I-PACE introduces the Jaguar InControl® Touch Pro Duo™ infotainment system to Jaguar. First debuting on the Range Rover Velar and later on the 2018 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, Touch Pro Duo relies on a pair of innovative touchscreens which work in conjunction with capacitive sensors and tactile physical controls, to make the new system intuitive to use6. A new EV navigation system built into Touch Pro Duo calculates personalized range and charging status to assist with driver confidence. To gather this data, the Touch Pro Duo system analyzes the topography of the selected route to the destination and aggregates that information with insights from previous journeys, including individual driving styles. The advanced system uses ‘Smart Settings’ technology – driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms – to identify individual driver preferences, and then tailors the vehicle’s driving and interior settings accordingly. The I-PACE will also launch an Amazon Alexa Skill linked to the Jaguar InControl Remote App. Owners will be able to ask an Alexa-enabled device for information such as “Is my car locked?,” “What is the charging level?,” and “Do I have enough range to get to work?” among other things. To ensure customers always have access to the latest infotainment, telematics and battery energy control software, the I-PACE will also be the first Jaguar to provide Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) updates. In the U.S. the I-PACE will be available in the second half of 2018 as a 2019 model year vehicle, in S, SE and HSE derivatives as well as a one-year-only, First Edition model derived from a very well equipped HSE trim. View full article

I'm talking generally - I know they are different. But to the normal person, they may only notice the different front ends.

The Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra really don't have many traits that set them apart, aside from different front-end styling. But GMC is hoping the new 2019 Sierra, making its debut today, will be able to distinguish itself from its Chevrolet brethren. To do this, GMC has two new features that are exclusive to the Sierra. First is the CarbonPro bed. Optional on the Denali, the bed is comprised of lightweight carbon fiber composite panels for the inner panels and floor. Not only does it promise "best-in-class dent, scratch and corrosion resistance", it also drop 62 pounds out of the Sierra's curb weight. Second is the MultiPro Tailgate that offers "six unique functions and positions " such as standing workstation. The Sierra's exterior takes a bold approach with a larger front grille and C-Shaped headlights. Denali models appear to have a lot of chrome trim. 22-inch wheels are standard equipment on the Denali and SLT. We don't know much about the exteriors for lesser Sierra models as GMC is focusing on the Denali and SLT models for the time being. Like the Silverado, GMC has focused on cutting weight in the 2019 Sierra - up to 360 pounds depending on the configuration. Aluminum panels are in use for the doors, hood, and tailgate. Don't expect any drastic differences between the Sierra's and Silverado's interior aside from some additional chrome trim. The Sierra does come with some interesting tech including a full-color heads-up display, a trailering smartphone app that allows a driver to check the lights, trailer tire pressures, and perform electrical diagnostics; and hitch guidance system to make hooking up a trailer easier. Engines will include the 5.3L and 6.2L V8s, and the all-new 3.0L turbodiesel inline-six. We'll hopefully have more details and pictures as GMC will be holding an event later tonight in Detroit. The 2019 Sierra arrives at dealers this fall. Source: GMC Press Release is on Page 2 GMC Introduces the Next Generation 2019 Sierra Commanding design, segment-leading technologies redefine premium truck DETROIT — GMC is taking its most popular pickup truck to the next level with the completely redesigned 2019 Sierra Denali and SLT. Distinguished by bold design and segment-leading technologies, the next generation Sierra Denali once again redefines the premium pickup, while advancing Denali’s legacy as the pinnacle of GMC design, capability and refinement. “GMC ignited the premium truck segment 17 years ago with the original launch of the Sierra Denali,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global GMC. “The next generation 2019 Sierra Denali establishes a new benchmark in capability and refinement. It exemplifies precision in every detail.” Powerful proportions and distinctive Denali design help define the Sierra’s unmistakable exterior, while the driver-focused cabin strengthens the brand’s reputation for refinement with premium materials, improved interior space and innovative storage solutions. The 2019 Sierra Denali affirms its position as the most premium Sierra ever with segment-leading technologies and exclusive features, including: GMC Exclusive, Industry-first MultiPro Tailgate is the most innovative pickup tailgate ever, with six unique functions and positions offering enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions, a standing workstation and easier access to items in the box. GMC Exclusive, Industry-first Carbon Fiber Pickup Box, the CarbonPro, was developed to increase durability, efficiency and functionality while offering best-in-class dent, scratch and corrosion resistance, making it the most durable pickup box in the segment. All-new ProGrade Trailering System with Trailering App offers a connected comprehensive suite of trailering technology that brings more confidence to the towing experience than ever before. Segment-first Multi-Color Head-Up Display projects key, customizable vehicle data on the windshield in a 3x7-inch display to help drivers keep their eyes on the road. Segment-first Rear Camera Mirror offers an optimized view via an available dual-function interior mirror that expands vision to overcome common visual obstructions like occupants or cargo. This next generation system features a higher resolution camera and display and the ability to tilt or zoom the view. The redesigned Sierra Denali offers a full suite of available advanced safety features, along with exclusive chassis technologies such as Adaptive Ride Control. “The heritage of the GMC brand is rooted in full-size trucks, of which the Sierra is our cornerstone, with our SLT and Denali models contributing 87 percent of our total crew cab sales,” Aldred said. “The next generation Sierra caters to these unique customers who demand a premium, innovative truck that supports their professional and personal passions.” A commanding presence The 2019 Sierra Denali debuts a profound new GMC design. A taller, more confident stance gives Sierra Denali powerful proportions complemented by hallmark details such as a chrome grille with a sharp, precise dimensional pattern that epitomizes the truck’s attention to detail. “The next generation Sierra Denali has a deliberate, commanding presence,” said Matt Noone, director of design, GMC Exteriors. “Its unmistakable design embodies the essence of GMC, while advancing the brand’s core styling elements — rooted in inherent capability — with a new expression of its signature cues.” Sierra shows refinement and strength through a larger, more-dominant upright grille, a taller hood, and a bolder, more pronounced take on GMC’s C-shaped lighting signature. Advanced lighting technology distinguishes the Sierra Denali from every other truck on the road. GMC’s front lighting signature is conveyed through a prominent “light blade” that delivers uniform LED illumination for the daytime running lamps. LEDs are also used for the headlamps, taillamps, fog lamps and other illuminative elements, with lenses constructed from durable material with an almost crystalline quality. The truck is larger than the previous truck in virtually every dimension, and the larger grille and dramatic lighting accentuate its broad-shouldered stance. The wheels are pushed closer to the corners and wear larger diameter tires. Denali features available 22-inch Ultra Bright aluminum wheels; the SLT model offers its own unique 22-inch dark aluminum wheels finished with chrome accents. New, more prominent badging includes a bold DENALI nameplate on the tailgate —expressed in a new block-style typeface that echoes the truck’s strong proportions — below the signature GMC identification. An elevated interior refined The Sierra Denali’s new interior builds on the refinement and sophistication that have become synonymous with Denali, topping the segment with best-in-class front head- and legroom (maximum), providing a more spacious, driver-centric environment finished with premium materials. Putting the driver at the center of experience starts with a higher seating position that offers a confident view behind the wheel. The optimized ergonomics emphasize easy, intuitive interaction with the vehicle’s technologies, such as the all-new Trailering App and segment-first Head-Up Display. Denali-exclusive materials — including premium leather-appointed seating, authentic open-pore wood trim and dark-finish aluminum decor — help raise the interior to a new level of refinement. The exclusive leather appointments have a distinctive, large-pebbled grain with a contrasting stitch pattern that is both premium in appearance and touch without sacrificing durability, and the wood trim features an open-pore texture evocative of hand-planed furniture. When it comes to the space and storage vital to truck customers, the 2019 Sierra’s crew cab has nearly 3 inches of additional rear-seat legroom compared to the current model. The outboard rear seat backs open to reveal rectangular storage spaces large enough for storing tablets or laptops, tie-down cords, umbrellas or other important accessories. Groundbreaking cargo box capability and materials The next generation 2019 Sierra debuts a GMC exclusive, industry-first MultiPro Tailgate that is the segment’s most innovative tailgate ever. Standard on SLT and Denali, the MultiPro Tailgate features six unique functions and positions, offering enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions, a standing workstation mode and easier access to items in the box. The MultiPro Tailgate also incorporates a step entry and egress mode that, when paired with the assist handle, offers both step and seated functionality, with a maximum weight capacity of 375 pounds (170 kg). Ease of use is enhanced with two buttons on the tailgate handle that allow convenient inner gate release. This multifunctional tailgate offers proven strength and durability, having undergone more testing and validation than any tailgate in GM’s history. Sierra is the first and only truck to offer the MultiPro Tailgate, providing premium truck customers the ultimate flexibility. MultiPro Tailgate will be standard on Denali and SLT. The cargo boxes also offer best-in-class cargo volume — 63 cubic feet (1,784 liters) on the short box, as well as additional tie-downs and a new, available 110-volt power outlet. The bed continues to be made of roll-formed, high-strength steel, yet a revised alloy offers 50 percent more strength than the current model. The 2019 Sierra Denali will offer, later in the model year, an available GMC exclusive and industry-first carbon fiber box — the CarbonPro — developed to increase durability, efficiency and functionality of the truck. It replaces the standard steel inner panels and floor with a lightweight, purpose-designed carbon fiber composite that offers best-in-class dent, scratch and corrosion resistance, making it the most durable pickup box in the segment. “In 116 years of making GMC pickup trucks, our industry-first carbon fiber box is the toughest and most durable pickup box we have ever made,” Aldred said. The new CarbonPro box is 62 pounds (28 kg) lighter than the steel version, and is one example of GMC’s strategic use of materials in engineering the Sierra. The strategy also incorporates aluminum for the doors, hood and tailgate, while relying on steel for the fenders, roof and standard cargo box to shave up to 360 pounds (163 kg) from Sierra compared today’s model. ProGrade Trailering System with Trailering App The 2019 Sierra offers a more confident towing experience thanks to GMC’s new ProGrade Trailering System, standard on Denali and SLT. The trailering system includes an all-new Trailering App featuring a Pre-Departure checklist, Maintenance Reminders, Trailer Light Test, Trailer Electrical Diagnostics and Trailer Tire Pressure and Temperature Monitoring. Many of the Trailering App’s functions, including the lighting test and pre-departure checklist, are also available with the MyGMC app on compatible Android and iOS smartphones, a feature that offers great convenience when outside the truck or trailer. The next generation Sierra also offers Hitch Guidance with Hitch View and Auto Electric Park Brake to help with perfect positioning when hitching. The available side view cameras and a trailer-mounted HD camera provide additional assistance when driving down the road or in reverse. With exclusive Trailer Theft Detection, owners can receive text and mobile alerts from OnStar when the trailer has been detached from the truck without permission. Purposeful technologies Seamless, driver-focused technology has long been a Denali standard, and the 2019 Sierra Denali establishes a new benchmark by incorporating purposeful technologies. These technologies work together to increase functionality and enhance comfort and convenience. Highlights include: Segment-first Multi-color 3x7 Head-Up Display: The 2019 Sierra is the first full-size truck to offer this technology, which projects key vehicle information on the windshield within the driver’s line of sight. Advanced GMC infotainment: This new, dynamic platform offers a smartphone-like experience with an intuitive interface, faster response and improved voice recognition. Sierra Denali’s standard 8-inch diagonal system includes navigation. Segment-first Rear Camera Mirror: This available dual-function interior mirror offers an optimized camera view that can help the driver’s view around potential vision obstructions such as occupants or cargo, while also offering a greater field of vision. This next gen system features a higher resolution camera, a higher resolution display and the ability to tilt or zoom the view. A conventional mirror view is also available. Surround Vision: Offering a bird’s-eye view of the truck, this available feature displays an overhead image on the infotainment screen, helping the driver detect potential obstacles when backing up, including when trailering. Full suite of advanced safety features: The 2019 Sierra Denali offers a full range of available advanced safety features, including Side Blind Zone Alert, Pedestrian Detection and Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking. Sierra performance New versions of the proven 6.2L and 5.3L V-8 engines will be joined by an all-new 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel engine, expanding the powertrain lineup for the 2019 Sierra. The 5.3L and 6.2L engines feature stop/start technology and new Dynamic Fuel Management that enables the engine to operate on one to eight cylinders, depending on demand, to optimize power and efficiency. The new diesel builds on GMC’s expertise with Duramax turbo-diesels offered in Sierra HD and Canyon models. The available 6.2L and 3.0L engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Sierra Denali features an exclusive Adaptive Ride Control suspension system designed to provide premium driving refinement with exceptional responsiveness. It employs sophisticated sensors to monitor road conditions and chassis responses in real time, enabling adjustments to active dampers every 2 milliseconds. Coming this fall The 2019 GMC Sierra Denali and SLT go on sale this fall. Additional details will be released closer to the start of production. View full article