Driving Sports

Dodge Launches Challenger - Driving Sports Takes a Hot Lap

2008-05-08T14:59:10-07:00

Chrysler today celebrated the production launch of one of the industry's most highly anticipated vehicles -- the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8. A full line-up of Challengers will follow in the 2009 model-year. Consumer interest in the Dodge Challenger has been some of the highest seen at Chrysler.

Driving Sports had a chance to get behind the wheel of the new Challenger SRT8 at Laguna Seca a couple weeks ago, and we were thrilled with the power and handling - far from creating a brutish, heavy throwback muscle car, Dodge and SRT have delivered a car with fantastic power, light steering feel, and predictable sporty handling. The manual transmission is smooth and fast, and helps make the new Challenger a joy to drive. If you've wanted one of the new generation of muscle cars and you're a Mopar fan, you have got to check out the Challenger SRT8.

"My dad had a Challenger back in the day, and I think he'd find this one just as fun," said Driving Sports Editor Jeff Zurschmeide. "I wish he was here to see and drive this car today."

The all-new Dodge Challenger is built at Chrysler's Brampton Assembly Plant on the same assembly line as the Dodge Charger and the Chrysler 300

"Even though the development time for this Dodge Challenger SRT8 is one of the shortest in Chrysler's history, the wait for this exciting car has been too long, and as of today, the wait is finally over!" said Frank Ewasyshyn, Executive Vice President - Manufacturing. "Dodge Challenger represents the best of Chrysler's past and future. The teams that worked to bring this vehicle to market with quality and speed have done an excellent job."

Nearly 1,000 employees and invited guests joined Mr. Ewasyshyn for the celebration.

Manufacturing

To ensure quality targets were met and to foster a smooth manufacturing launch, a team of Brampton employees spent months helping to build pilot vehicles at Chrysler's Auburn Hills Technology Center. Then, early pre-production models were built on the Brampton assembly line -- rather than a pilot facility -- which allowed engineers to more realistically test the production process.

"The vision of rolling launches on lines that build multiple and variant models is becoming a reality as demonstrated with the Dodge Challenger at the Brampton Assembly Plant," said Fred Godetel, Vice President - Car and Minivan Manufacturing. "Chrysler's Flexible Manufacturing Strategy, little more than a theory a few years ago, is being proved out at plants across North America."

The Brampton Assembly Plant features Chrysler's Flexible Manufacturing Strategy which provides for the production of higher quality products at lower cost. This unique system combines off-the-shelf robotics with customized and interchangeable tooling to build a variety of products on a single assembly line. This manufacturing expertise also allows the Company to more quickly and easily balance vehicle production with customer demand.

Dodge Challenger

The return of the iconic Dodge Challenger combines unmistakable design cues reminiscent of the original Challenger with world-class performance. Approximately 7,000 2008 model-year vehicles for North American markets will be produced before 2009 model-year vehicles begin production in August. For 2009, the Company will offer three models: Dodge Challenger SE, Dodge Challenger R/T and Dodge Challenger SRT8.

Dodge dealers have seen a tremendous interest in the Dodge Challenger and 2008 models are already sold out.

Although the original Dodge Challenger muscle car lasted only five model years, the Dodge Challenger became one of the most storied muscle car nameplates in automotive history, with meticulously restored and rare examples today selling for six-figure prices.

The U.S. MSRP for the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 starts at $37,995, including the $675 destination charge.

Customer First

With world-class products like the Dodge Challenger, Chrysler can respond to customer insights and expectations with vehicles that truly capture the essence of the Company's bold spirit while exceeding customer expectations.

The New Chrysler LLC is more nimble than a publicly held company and is moving quickly to deliver more quality and value to Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge customers. The Company initially approved 260 line-item product enhancements representing an investment of a half-billion dollars. The product changes continue to grow and are currently at more than 400.

The Company also launched last month the industry's first on-line Customer Advisory Board to establish two-way dialog with our customers, and thousands of people have already applied to be part of this board. As we move beyond focus groups to gain insights that we can share throughout the Company, this Advisory Board will be used to stay in touch with our customers.

Brampton Assembly

The Brampton Assembly Plant was built in 1986 and was later acquired by Chrysler Corporation with the purchase of American Motors Corporation in 1987. The Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid began production in 1997 and the Chrysler LHS and 300M in 1998. Production of rear-wheel-drive vehicles started in 2004 with the launch of the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum. Production of the Dodge Charger was launched in early 2005.

The 2.95 million square-foot facility along with the Brampton Satellite Stamping Plant occupies 269 acres and together employs approximately 3,200 workers, many of which are represented by the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW). The satellite stamping facility was completed and production started in December of 1991.

V6-Powered Miata is Awesome

2008-05-08T14:12:48-07:00

Yesterday we did a photoshoot for our Miata Magazine, Forever MX-5, of this unique and very awesome V6-powered Miata.

Sure, there are V8 conversions out there, but they're simply ridiculous. Keeping "reasonable" with a Mazda-sourced V6 creates a car that is true to the essence of the Miata, but kicks performance to a new realm: 180whp in a featherweight car with fat tires. And yes, this car can handle. I may even go so far to call it brilliant.

Click the jump to see the video, and go subscribe to Forever MX-5 Magazine to read all the details in the Summer 2008 issue.

Our Garage: Ryan's 2007 Legacy GT

2008-05-05T15:14:40-07:00

Subaru makes some fast factory cars. Specifically, its rally-bred STI is known for a 300hp fire-breathing mill and excellent road-handling capabilities. However, as much as I like speed, I prefer to have something a little less “racer boy” for my daily driver. I like the feel of Subaru’s boxer motors and the driver ergonomics, I also happen to run a Subaru magazine, so it only made sense that I looked elsewhere in the ‘roo family when selecting a car for my own. In the end I chose a model with styling and an interior I could live with every day: a 2007 Subaru Legacy GT.

Stock, the Legacy GT has a 243-hp (crank estimate) turbocharged motor that shares many components with the STI. Though, unlike the STI, you can get leather, a moonroof and body styling that doesn’t look like it was an afterthought. In fact, I’d say the 2007-08 Legacy is one of the better-looking cars on the road today.

Of course, given my occupation, this car didn’t stay stock long. Shortly after break-in we started the first phase of changes in the “need for speed” category. This included a larger turbo, fatter top-mount intercooler and a Perrin turbo-back exhaust system. All the parts were tuned using an ECUTek reflash and netted a tidy 280hp at the wheels

I ran that config for a good year and was pretty happy with the overall performance: the 18G Blouch/TDC Turbo spooled fast and had enough scoot for the occasional track day or Time Attack race. The Achilles heel was the top end. Power came fast, but didn’t stick around, making long straight-aways on the track my nemesis. Also, in hot conditions, such as I faced at the 2007 Tuner Shootout in Nevada, the top-mount intercooler just couldn’t keep temperatures at bay.

Before we started on “Phase 2“ of this Legacy GT build, my technical editor Tim Bailey and I changed the engine management to a Cobb Accessport 2.0 (it wasn’t available for the car’s CANBUS system when we did Phase 1) and played around to see if we could break 300whp mark with the existing configuration. All indications were good, but then made a mistake, by pushing the tune with stock injectors and “trying some stuff” in an uncontrolled situation, followed by me flogging the car around our test course. That mix spelled disaster for piston #4: we broke a ring and smoking immediately followed. This is otherwise known as the “change engine indicator” coming on. Yes kids, don’t try this at home, we’re professionals.

In the tuning world the death of one engine often leads to the development of a newer, stronger mill to replace it. This project is no different. Out with the stock (busted) shortblock, and in with a brand-spankin’-new STI block with a special ingredient: Cosworth forged pistons. This was assembled for us by the guys at PDXTuning in Portland, Oregon.

While the motor was out, we finally installed some larger injectors (from our friends at Deatschwerks), slapped on a larger AVO 420 turbo (installed by Rallitek performance), and fitted a Perrin front-mount intercooler to help keep temperatures more consistent. The clutch was also fried, so in went an ACT heavy-duty clutch kit along with the ACT streetlite flywheel. If you’re keeping score, yes, not much of the original confirmation remained when all was said and done.

For the tune, we took the car to Steve’s Pacific Import Auto in Tacoma, Wash., where Tim Bailey (Subiesport Magazine's technical editor and owner of Surgeline tuning) was finally able to put together a proper tune on their dyno. End result? 320 wheel-horsepower and 320 ft-lbs of torque, measured at the wheels on the Mystang dyno, running 92 octane fuel.

Unfortunately, I can’t give you all the facts about this new build, since it is an ongoing project car for Subiesport Magazine, and is scheduled to appear in an upcoming issue -- we have to keep some morsels for the magazine. But I can say this: It’s fast, but not fast enough. Certainly faster than any stock STI, but that’s not what I want. I don’t think I’ll be happy with this setup until we hit or surpass a safe 350whp, which will require some more changes.

The fact that we’re not done yet is okay by me. In many ways, testing all these different setups is more fun than the destination itself. Stay tuned, as the adventure continues.

Endura-Tech now shipping 350z coilovers

2008-05-02T10:44:45-07:00

I recently had the pleasure to drive a Nissan NISMO 350z at Laguna Seca Raceway. What a world of difference a little suspension tuning does for the Z. Now, our good friends at Endura-Tech have a new coilover for Z owners who want a little more than what the factory setup offers.

I've personally run Endura-Tech units on both my track Subaru 2.5RS and my highly-modded Subaru Legacy GT street car and can recommend them very highly. Quality products and an intelligent approach to each and every application. Enough gushing from me, read the short PR after the jump for more details.

The Endura-Tech 350z coilover application is an ideal street and track coilover package offering a lower center of gravity, better cornering ability and a comfortable ride for the daily driver. These coilovers feature a 10-way rebound adjustable twin tube gas damper for durability and more effective stroke.

Features:
Front Spring Rate: 10K
Rear Spring Rate: 10K
Pillow ball upper mount.
Front lower bracket height adjustment for maximum suspension travel.

For more information: www.endura-tech.com

Tomorrow's Big Cat - 2009 Jaguar XF

2008-05-01T12:05:19-07:00

Last week we drove the ultra-luxurious Jaguar XJ Super V8 sedan and enjoyed it. The XJ is a great car but at a sticker price of about $95,000 it’s more than a bit out of reach for most people. But Jaguar followed up that superlative ride with their brand new and ultra-hot XF Coupe. With a sticker price of $62,200, it’s still what the industry calls an “aspirational vehicle,” but it’s still $30-large cheaper than the sedan, and you get all the best stuff carried over from the XJ.

The XF features the same supercharged 4.2-liter V8 engine with 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, mated with the same excellent 6-speed automatic transmission. The tranny features paddle shifters on the steering wheel and a “Sport” mode that shifts for speed better than most people can manage. The car is rear wheel drive, which is great for sporty driving, and that’s what you can expect from the XF.

The suspension on the XF is just as smooth as the higher-priced XJ, with its active “CATS” (Computer Active Technology Suspension) feature. Together with Jag’s dynamic stability control, the car won’t let you get out of hand with the ponies. But you turn off the stability control by pressing the button that’s conveniently labeled with a little checkered flag - then you’ve got the full power of the engine at your disposal, and no robotic nanny to take over the throttle if you decide to get all jiggy.

Driving the XF is a true “King of the Road” experience. Punch the little checkered flag and you can dust just about anything short of another supercar from a standing start. The XF is roomy, comfortable, and has every ding-dong you could want: backup camera, heated and air-conditioned leather seats, GPS navigation, nice stereo, blind spot monitor in the side mirrors, sunroof, real wood inside, Bluetooth - the whole enchilada. And it looks great and sexy besides.

One of the fun things about the XF is the sci-fi way that the vents open and the shifter open up when you fire up the car. The shift knob is an iDrive-style rotating dial on the center console. Press and rotate to select a gear. This was slightly annoying at times, because sometimes you have to press it to get it to rotate, and sometimes you have to give it a little upward tug - not what you want to be practicing while attempting to parallel park on a busy street!

Another area with room for improvement is the fit and finish inside. A friend who’s also a human factors designer noted that the seams and cutlines in the cabin don’t always line up well. That’s a small issue for a driving enthusiast, but the kind of thing a luxury car aficionado will notice.

But after a few days getting comfortable with the controls, the overriding impression is that the XF is just an all-around fun car to drive. Even if I did get only 15.5 MPG in real-world combination driving, I enjoyed the ride. And really, if you’re ready to shop the XF, is the price of gas going to slow you down?

So, to the window sticker. As I noted at the start, the base price of the Jag XF is $62,200, and on this particular car, they’ve added $2,200 for their adaptive cruise control. This uses radar to look ahead of the car and if anything’s in the way, it will adjust the cruise (within reason) to maintain following distance. That’s nice for everyone who’s ever had the cruise set to 65 only to have the guy in front of you vary his speed between 63 and 67 for 100 miles. But at $2,200, I think I’d leave that option on the shelf.

The only other option on my test car was $300 for the heated, leather, 3-spoke steering wheel. Of course it has stereo, cruise, and telephone controls, but I think the only difference to the stock wheel is the heat. That’s a nice feature on cold days - a logical accessory to heated seats, and I’d cheerfully pay the three Benjamins for warm fingers.

The bottom line on the Jaguar XF is the same as the XJ - this is an awesome ride, if you can afford it. Certainly if you’re shopping the same bracket for a BMW or a Mercedes, you should take a good look at the Jaguar lineup.

SUV with Soul - Mazda CX-9

2008-05-01T12:01:30-07:00

Seven-passenger capability has always been the mark of the “big” car. I recently wrote a profile on a gentleman who is restoring a 1946 Packard seven passenger sedan, and asked the opinion of a suburban housewife and SUV fanatic about the seven passenger Land Rover LR3. Seven passengers seems to be a magic number - maybe because it’s room for one U.S.-standard nuclear family plus one pair of grandparents, or two adults and a basketball team. Who knows?

As a Mazda enthusiast, I was interested to drive the CX-9 for a few days in California’s fabulous central coast region. I’d never driven the CX-9 before, and was curious to see if Mazda’s “Always the soul of a sports car” slogan held true even in the biggest vehicle they offer.

The CX-9 carries five people easily in a standard four-door plus hatch SUV arrangement. The rear cargo area folds up to reveal additional seating for two in a forward-facing third row. The car comes with a 3.7-liter V6 engine, making 273 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, and this power is delivered through a nicely-built 6-speed automatic AWD transmission. Mazda offers rachet-shift capability as standard equipment, but really, the CX-9 isn’t that kind of car. And that’s OK, because the car is just fine in Drive mode.

For as large as it is, the CX-9 does drive well. I took it over the treacherous Highway 17 to Santa Cruz a couple of times and it’s sure-footed and powerful whether you’re headed up the hilly curves or down. It’s sized right for the freeways in the valley and perfectly pleasant cruising down Highway 1 to Monterey. And when it was time to organize a big crew for a dinner expedition, it was nice to be able to say “Well, we could take three cars, or just pile into the CX-9 and go together.”

The interior of the CX-9 is nice - not a speck of fake wood grain in sight. Just a well-made plastic dash with convenient, usable controls. The car comes with air, cruise, navigation, nice stereo with 6-disc changer and satellite, rear-view camera, heated power leather seats with memory, Bluetooth, zone climate control, keyless entry, xenon HID headlights, fogs, DVD player, 110VAC outlet, and rain-sensing wipers - in short, all the stuff that you want and expect in a top-of-the-line SUV north of $50,000.

But that’s the real deal-sealer on the CX-9 - the base sticker price is just $34,655. With all the options above, the car I tested was stickered at $41,180. And that’s rolling on 20s with pearl metallic paint - sweet!

Fuel economy in the CX-9 is estimated at 15/21, and that matches what we got in 4 days of driving around the greater bay area. That’s not bad for a vehicle of this size and weight.

But does it have the soul of a sports car? That depends on where you think a sports car’s soul lives. If you believe as I do that a car’s soul is all about being fun to drive, tight, and well-built, then a CX-9 meets the standard. It’s not an MX-5 or RX-8 of course, but comparing apples to apples the CX-9 beats the roof rack off of any other seven-passenger SUV for a great driving experience. And it does it for about half the going price, which is another Mazda specialty.

Rule Brittania - Jaguar XJ Super V8

2008-05-01T09:20:08-07:00

There really is something special about a Jaguar. The XJ (originally named for eXperimental Jaguar) has been produced for 40 years with substantially the same body lines, and it remains a popular choice in the luxury market. More than half the cars Jaguar has ever built - over 800,000 units - have been XJ models. The 2008 XJ is the seventh generation of the car according to Jaguar’s method of calculation, and the 2008 XJ Super V8 is without a doubt the most powerful and luxurious offering in XJ history.

This year, you can get your XJ with a normally aspirated 310 horsepower 4.2-liter V8 engine, or the Super V8, pulling over 400 horsepower and 408 pound-feet of torque from a supercharged 4.2-liter V8. That’s some serious grunt for a supposedly sedate British luxury car!

All the XJ models deliver their power to the rear wheels through a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission, outfitted with semi-manual capabilities.

The seventh generation XJ is a bit longer than previous models - leg room in the back is sufficient to allow a set of airplane-style flip-down desks for the rear seat passengers. While not a true limousine, it’s obvious that this car is designed to transport VIPs. But the DVD screens set in the backs of the front seat headrests indicate that the most likely VIPs to enjoy the back seat of the XJ are there because they’re still too young to drive themselves.

The driving experience in the XJ Super V8 is exceptional. The engine snarls, the car rockets ahead, but corners nicely for its size. The car has excellent brakes, a solidly smooth air-ride suspension, and responsive steering. Interior noise is minimal and the age-old Jaguar promise of a luxurious, yet sporty ride is kept to the last word.

But the soul of a luxury car lives in the interior, and the XJ has really got it right. The touch screen interface to the climate, audio, navigation, and Bluetooth communications controls common to all Jaguars is intuitive and easy to use. Contrast this with the impossible BMW iDrive system with its single spinning, clicking knob and you’ll see.

The XJ comes with heated leather seats in both front and rear, and air conditioning in the front seats. The rear seats also have power adjustment - further proof that this is a car designed for the back seat passengers.

The new XJ also offers zone climate control for all four primary passenger positions, an automatic sunroof, a nice AM/FM/CD/DVD/Satellite stereo with attachment for your iPod or MP3 player, backup camera, pull-down sun or paparazzi blinds, leather dash, and generally fantastic appointments throughout the car. And a trunk big enough to haul your luggage, golf clubs, and whatever else you might like.

Now, to the price. Well, if you have to ask… Jaguar wants $94,085 for the basic car, which includes everything mentioned above except the Satellite Radio, which costs $450 more. After the transportation and handling fee, the test car stickers out at $95,200. Ouch! But did we mention the air conditioned seats and 400-horsepower engine?

The bottom line on the Jaguar XJ Super V8 is that if you can afford it, you’ll like it. What’s not to like? But if you can’t quite swallow the near-six-figure price tag, consider the 300 horsepower normally aspirated V8 version, priced at an economical $63,835.

Sync Your Ride!

2008-05-01T08:24:30-07:00

Lincoln Navigator owners wishing they had Ford's industry-exclusive SYNC in-vehicle communications system, need wish no more.

Ford has introduced an affordable, dealer-installed SYNC accessory kit that allows select 2008 Navigator and Navigator L customers to enjoy Ford's voice-activated communications system. SYNC works with most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players.

Ford first introduced the Microsoft-powered SYNC system on the 2008 Ford Focus. And 11 other 2008 vehicles soon followed, including the Ford Edge, Taurus, and the Lincoln MKX and Lincoln MKZ. As part of Ford's aggressive migration plan, SYNC will be offered on nearly every 2009 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicle.

"The company's decision to offer the custom SYNC accessory retrofit kit first on Navigator wasn't casual," says Doug White, Vehicle Personalization Marketing & Planning manager, who adds that original migration plans were to add SYNC to the luxury SUV for the 2009 model year. "Customers and dealers were telling us that we needed SYNC on our flagship SUV and we felt we needed to respond to those concerns as quickly as we could," says White. "They essentially said, 'If you have it on Focus, why not Navigator."

California dealer Ed Witt of Witt Lincoln Mercury expects the SYNC accessory kit to be a big hit with Navigator customers. Witt was one of the first dealers to order up the kits in early April. "This product is done to perfection and works just as if it came from the factory," says Witt, who installed 10 of the SYNC kits just three weeks after it became available. "For standalone Lincoln Mercury dealers, the Navigator is an extremely important product for us - an icon for the Lincoln brand. Having SYNC gives us the opportunity to go back to our Navigator customers and offer them a solid system that is absolutely seamless and works perfectly."

For the SYNC retrofit kit, customers must own a 2008 Navigator or Navigator L equipped with the Elite Package that includes the voice-activated navigation radio and rear seat DVD. Vehicles must also be built after December 4, 2007.

The accessory kit, which consists of the SYNC module and related hardware, costs under $550 installed. Installation time is under two hours.

The system uses the existing steering wheel button controls and voice- activation functionality connected with the navigation system, eliminating the need for an add-on HMI or microphone to operate SYNC. Once installed, the retrofit SYNC system is fully integrated. "The hardware is hidden and the system is totally seamless to the customer," says White.

SYNC accessory kits are also under development for other vehicles, including the Ford Mustang.

Gitting sideways at Prodrive UK

2008-04-30T16:46:47-07:00

Just before Christmas I was running a series from my trip to Rally GB in 2007. I've dusted the files off and have one more from that series to share. This was the visit to the Prodrive test track in Warwickshire.

I had a chance to drive a Type UK 2007 STI and a Group-N WRC car on the high-speed course (my first time in a right-hand drive), plus I had a little fun on the ice simulator. Prodrive has one of only two such simulators in the UK.

Thanks to Subaru of America for hookup us up. Enjoy the video, just after the jump.

Saleen Offers 302 Crate Engines

2008-04-29T06:43:24-07:00

For the first time ever, Saleen will begin selling its high performance 302 cubic inch (5.0L) premium crate engines through its Speedlab Aftermarket Division. The engine will be available in either short block or long block varieties to satisfy the most seasoned of engine builders and power enthusiasts.

Saleen offers the same OEM quality, durability and precision-built engines used today in Saleen built performance vehicles. The legendary 302 engine has already made its rightful return to the performance stage in Saleen product offerings such as the Parnelli Jones Edition, Heritage Series, and the new 25th Anniversary Sterling Edition. Consumers now have the opportunity to upgrade their existing vehicle with a high performance Saleen 302 crate engine.

"This addition to our aftermarket product lineup was a no brainer," says Carlos Duran, Manager of Saleen's Speedlab Aftermarket Division, "This engine is currently at high production rates, which allow for quick delivery to Saleen Speedlab consumers. We want to provide our customers with the utmost in confidence relating to this new line of products."

Performance

The 302 cubic inch crate motors (available in both long and short blocks) are available for naturally-aspirated or supercharged applications. Based on the 4.6L 3V Ford aluminum block, the entire internal package is upgraded with premium Saleen engineered forged pistons, rods, crankshaft and valve train components, and camshaft that will exceed the requirements of even the professional engine builder. The basis of our performance data is from the current 2008 Heritage Saleen platforms. Our packages will range from 390hp (normally-aspirated 302 engines) to 580hp (supercharged 302 engines) using existing EPA certified induction and exhaust systems. Furthermore, these packages can be further upgraded with 6 speed transmissions, high performance clutch/flywheels, higher performance rear end differentials, Watts link rear suspension kits and, of course, superchargers.

"We are very excited to put the 302SC long block engine into the drag racing circuit this year under the hood of the Saleen Speedlab/JDM Engineering performance drag car", states Michael Lingo, Vice President of Operations & General Manager - Aftermarket Division, "We are planning to place the vehicle on display throughout the season; proving the durability and reliability of the Saleen motors in the most demanding environment imaginable." The 302 crate engines will launch in May, 2008 and will be available for purchase direct from the factory or through select Saleen Speedlab dealers. Call today at 800-888-8945 to speak directly with your Saleen Speedlab specialist.

About Saleen

Since the company's inception in 1984, Saleen has produced thousands of complete and EPA certified vehicles, more than any other specialty automobile manufacturer. In addition, Saleen has equipped more than 600,000 vehicles worldwide, further emphasizing their capabilities and commitment to excellence.
A nine-time Manufacturers' Champion in GT sports car racing, Saleen manufactured the American super car - the Saleen S7, as well as the S281 Mustang, S331 Sport Truck and the Saleen/Parnelli Jones Limited Edition Mustang as well as the new Dan Gurney Signature edition Saleen. In addition, Saleen provided all paint and assembly of the Ford GT as a special project for Ford Motor Company. Saleen is also currently providing paint and subassembly for the Dodge Viper SRT-10. Saleen's World Headquarters is located in Troy, Michigan.

Pombo Takes First VW TDI Cup - Series Sponsors Announced

2008-04-29T06:35:40-07:00

Rising star Mark Pombo won the first Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup race on Sunday at VIRginia International Raceway. With a best lap time of 2:15.686, Pombo, 25, from Duluth, GA., raced against 28 other up-and-coming drivers to secure his win in the race.

“Winning the first race of the Jetta TDI Cup is definitely a highlight of my racing career so far,” said Pombo. “It’s a competitive field of racers, with each of the drivers at the top of their game. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve this win without the support of the Volkswagen cup series team and Cates Engineering.”

Complete Jetta TDI Cup race results are listed below with finishing position, starting position in parentheses, driver, hometown, and laps completed.

      1. (4), Mark Pombo, Duluth, Ga., 11 (shown at right)
      2. (5), Derek Jones, Philadelphia, Pa., 11, -.463
      3. (6), Jimmy Underhill, Denver, Colo., 11, -.532
      4. (7), David Jurca, Federal Way, Wash., 11, -.831
      5. (20), Gary Williams_Jr., Dana Point, Calif., 11, -1.171
      6. (2), Caleb Kenney, Berkeley, Calif., -1.629
      7. (21), Chris Kuenning(R), Grand Rapids, Mich., 11, -2.381
      8. (11), Chris Castagna, Boston, Mass., 11, -2.556
      9. (8), Juan Pablo Sierra Lendle, Puebla, MX, 11, -3.269
      10. (10), Michael DeNino, Gaithersburg, Md., 11, -4.122
      11. (16), Jake Dallenbach(R), San Antonio, Texas, 11, -4.846
      12. (24), Adam Kretschmer(R), Brampton, Ontario, 11, -8.487
      13. (19), Andy Lee, Colorado Springs, Colo., 11, -11.204
      14. (25), Nick Mancuso, Mettawa, Ill., 11, -11.663
      15. (26), Andrew Cordeiro, Woodbridge, Ontario, 11, -11.828
      16. (29), Taylor Broekemeier(R), Fort Collins, Colo., 11, -12.457
      17. (28), Adam Love(R), Normal, Ill., 11, -14.986
      18. (17), Wyatt Dallenbach(R), San Antonio, Texas, 11, -15.751
      19. (23), James Kirkham, Beaverton, Ore., 11, -18.063
      20. (13), Ryan Buetzer, Long Beach, Calif., 11, -18.195
      21. (27), David Richert(R), Niverville MB, Canada, 11, -19.377
      22. (15), John Shim(R), Starkville, Miss., 11, -19.768
      23. (18), Evan Pflock(R), Rendondo Beach, Calif., 11, -26.949
      24. (1), Josh Hurley, Cooper City, Fla., 11, -2:11.011
      25. (22), Chad Brassfield(R), Phoenix, Ariz., 10, -1 lap
      26. (9), Liam Kenney, Sterling, Va., 9, DNF
      27. (14), Adam Crepin(R), St. Louis, Mo., 9, DNF
      28. (12), Chris Holman, Burlington, Ontario, 9, DNF
      29. (3), Timmy Megenbier, Melrose Park, Ill., 3, DNF

All drivers participated using factory prepared and managed 2009 Jetta TDI clean-diesel vehicles powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder TDI engine. The Jetta TDI is lightly modified from spec, featuring race-ready suspension and brakes, and a six-speed double-clutch automatic DSG transmission. Additionally, to highlight its environmental dedication Volkswagen has partnered with Carbonfund.org to certify the entire race series as carbon free.

The next race in the series will take place on May 16 – 18th, at Mosport International Raceway.

Series Sponsors Announced

Volkswagen also announced the vehicle sponsors for the Jetta TDI Cup today, on the heels of the inaugural race of this series on April 27th at VIRginia International Raceway (VIR). The sponsors include companies from a variety of lifestyle, athletic and automotive companies.

“Having these top-tier sponsors on board for the first year of the Jetta TDI Cup is a testament to the unique opportunities this fresh new series provides,” said Clark Campbell, motorsports manager, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “To launch this innovative series with the support of these internationally recognized and respected companies is a great way to continue to bring attention to the increasing popularity of clean-diesel engines.”

Sponsors for the Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup (in alphabetical order):

Aggreko
As the world’s leading supplier of temporary power and temperature control solutions and oil-free compressed air systems, Aggreko helps customers in many different industries to improve and safeguard their operations by solving problems, creating opportunities and reducing risk.

Athletes’ Performance
Recognized as an industry leader, Athletes’ Performance offers the highest level of integrated performance training, physical therapy and the most fully integrated training system in the world. Their systems have helped produce the best of the best in sports, including all-stars and winners of every major sport and competition including the World Series, Super Bowl, NBA, Stanley Cup and Grand Slam, as well as Olympic gold medalists and winners of the coveted Green Jacket.

Bondurant
The Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving teaches thrill seekers and current or aspiring racers how to drive like the pros. With a racing school featuring a 60 acre purpose-built racing facility, the racing courses range from four hours to four days with a range from beginning driver instruction to advanced course for experienced or professional racers.

Bosch
As one of the largest North American automotive suppliers, Bosch develops, manufactures and supplies precision components and systems (including powertrain, body electronics and chassis support) for vehicle manufacturers worldwide. Since 1886 the company has helped to accelerate the progress of automotive technology through continued innovation.

ful®
With a passion for creating comfortable, functional bags with a fashion edge, ful® offers an alternative to the standard bulky laptop cases and tombstone-shaped packs. Inspired by the music world, ful® offers bags with bright colors, plenty of storage and neoprene laptop sleeves as a bold and different alternative to the same old boring bags.

Holder
Holder Off-Road Lighting is dedicated to providing the racing industry with the latest in lighting technology. Using patented optical technology designed by a professional design house in Southern California (Illumination Management Solutions), the optics are designed to provide the most efficiency of any LED technology in the racing industry.

Ironclad Performance Wear
Prior to Ironclad, work gloves were stuck in the dark ages with no dexterity or breathability, and little in the way of protection and comfort. Ironclad revolutionized this work-wear using technical fabrics that last longer, breathe better, regulate body temperature, decrease odor, pull sweat off the skin and block UV radiation.

Oakley
Created for world-class athletes who see the limits of possibility as just another challenge, Oakley products represent their commitment to excellence and a passion that refines what is possible for those who defy their own limits. Oakley has a presence in 110 countries offering a full array of market-leading products including premium sunglasses, goggles, prescription eyewear, apparel, footwear and accessories.

UTI
A nationwide provider of technical education, Universal Technical Institute, Inc. (UTI), offers training for students seeking careers in professional automotive, diesel, collision repair, as well as motorcycle and marine technicians. Through a campus-based school system UTI offers specialized technical education programs under the banner of several well-known brands including UTI, Motorcycle Mechanics Institute and Marine Mechanics Institute, and NASCAR Technical Institute.

ViON
A small, veteran-owned corporation, ViON specializes in providing assured computing to high performance, enterprise-wide data centers throughout federal, state and local governments. Their solutions range from disaster recovery to enterprise storage, server consolidation and business continuance, delivering the right data to the right people no matter what.

Suzuki SX4 To Offer Standard Nav Under $16K

2008-04-29T06:23:31-07:00

Suzuki showed off their fun SX4 hatchback last week at the Western Automotive Journalist's "Media Days" event, and then today announced the addition of a fully integrated standard navigation system to the 2009 SX4. The company's offering marks the first time a new vehicle under $16,000 will include navigation as a standard feature. The GPS navigation system will be included as standard equipment on both the four-door SX4 Sport and front-wheel-drive version of the five-door SX4 Crossover, propelling the 2009 SX4 to the front of the compact segment as the personal technology leader.

The Suzuki SX4's integrated navigation system is the result of a partnership with Garmin and is available with a variety of advanced Microsoft Network-enabled features, including real-time traffic, weather forecasts, local event listings and a gas station finder capable of locating the lowest priced fuel in town. To further customize the system to reflect its "Way of Life" brand attitude, Suzuki will add a number of lifestyle-oriented, Suzuki-recommended destinations and landmarks to the system. The locations include hip music venues, popular surf spots, interesting road trip attractions and other activity-focused destinations that will be clearly identified with a Suzuki "Way of Life" icon on the navigation screen.

"Aside from improving an already popular vehicle, this navigation system provides a unique opportunity to further express the Suzuki 'Way of Life' brand spirit and directly respond to SX4 shoppers' unmet needs," said Mark Harano, president of American Suzuki Automotive Operations. "We know that our customers are vibrant and adventurous at heart, so we've gone beyond a typical navigation offering to develop a system capable of enhancing driver experiences and activating a passion for living life to the fullest. Navigation makes drivers feel more confident and in control, and our customized navigation system is the perfect fit for Suzuki owners' on-the-go attitude and daily routine."

Suzuki based its decision to include standard navigation on feedback from current SX4 owners regarding their most desired features in their next vehicle purchase. In addition to improving overall favorable impressions of the SX4, Suzuki research showed the addition of a navigation system had a positive "halo" effect on a range of driver perceptions, including significant increases in drivers' "feelings of control" and "feelings of safety."

Referred to as the Suzuki T.R.I.P. (Travel, Real-time traffic, Information and Play), the fully integrated system utilizes Navteq mapping software and includes a flip-up 4.3-inch touch screen display and Bluetooth hands-free calling technology that can receive and audibly play text messages. The system also comes preloaded with street maps that feature millions of points-of-interest, such as hotels, restaurants, gasoline stations and ATMs, and other Suzuki-recommended, brand-oriented destinations. A dedicated community Web site will be launched to support the sharing and downloading of user-generated recommendations for destinations and drive routes among Suzuki owners.

The touch screen navigation system included as standard equipment on the 2009 SX4 Sport and front-wheel-drive version of the five-door SX4 Crossover will come with a number of standard navigation features and millions of unique points-of-interest. Bluetooth capability and other enhanced Microsoft Network-enabled features of the system, including real-time traffic, local events, weather forecasts and a gas price finder, will be included as part of the SX4's upgraded trim package. The 2009 SX4 is scheduled to arrive in dealer showrooms this summer.

Western Automotive Journalists Gather For "Media Days" At Laguna Seca

2008-04-26T11:42:06-07:00

The Western Automotive Journalists organization gathered this week in beautiful Monterey, Calif. to test drive the 2008 sports and luxury car field from virtually every automaker doing business in North America. Journalists from up and down the west coast arrived to test the full fleet of 2008 cars on the winding mountain roads of Carmel Valley and at speed on the track at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Yes, that's the new Nissan GT-R parked next to the NISMO Edition 350Z in the photo to the right. Yes, they're as good as you think they are.

Events such as this serve a number of purposes, including a rare chance for side-by-side tests of comparable cars from different automakers, and also to allow a relaxed atmosphere to talk shop with the manufacturer representatives. But I wouldn't lie to you and tell you it was anything like working - this event is big-time fun.

Among the cars available to drive on the track at Laguna Seca were the new 600HP Dodge Viper and the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8. Driving impressions on the Challenger are embargoed until April 30 (meaning that Dodge wants to give all the media a chance at the car, then we can all say what we thought on the same day), so check back on Wednesday for the full report.

But I can tell you today that the Viper rocks - and Dodge thoughtfully provided a professional racing instructor to ride shotgun with us around the race track. The Viper is a pure, true sports car - with no traction control or other assistance to keep you from screwing up, so a bit of coaching is useful for anyone who doesn't manhandle one of these beasts around a race track every day. The 2008 Viper is still what Dodge wanted from the get-go - an ultimate, snarling, power rocket with plenty of grip in the corners and enough torque to paste your eyeballs against the back of your skull.

Porsche also brought coaches to offer advice as we piloted the 911 Cabriolet and the turbocharged Cayenne SUV around the track. The line for the 911 was too long for my short patience, so I hopped into the Cayenne and can safely tell you it's the most amazing SUV-sports car I've ever driven. The Cayenne takes a special touch on a race track, but it's got the power to move out and Porsche has poured everything they know into its handling characteristics, and it paid off.

Suzuki's Pocket Rocket

Suzuki brought a special car to the event - the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive, SX4 custom-prepared by Road Race Engineering in southern California. This little pocket rocket hit all the right notes with the Driving Sports staff. It's the logical successor to the vaunted Mazda 323 GTX of the late 1980s. It's got a smallish (2.0-liter) DOHC engine with a small quick-spooling turbo, mated to a quick AWD manual transmission and delivered to a light, short-wheelbase chassis. The effect is heady - the little car loves to turn, yet is sure-footed and can always find some pavement to grab, even on a single-lane, crumbling and bumpy strip of asphalt headed up into the Carmel hills. Suzuki is trying to decide whether to manufacture and sell this car, so our request and advice to you is to contact Suzuki through their dealers or directly and ask them - beg if necessary - to build this car and sell it to you. You won't be disappointed.

Nissan Flexes its Muscle

Nissan was at the event with the GT-R supercar and the NISMO edition 350Z. The NISMO car uses the same 300 Horsepower engine and 6-speed manual transmission as the basic Z, but upgrades virtually everything else. I have to say, this was the car that I most enjoyed on track at Laguna. Plenty of power for the uphill sections, and handling like a race car. NISMO gifted their Z with a stiff, racing-style suspension that was a kidney-shaker on the rough roads, but was just what you wanted on the race track. The car sticks like glue, goes like stink, and looks hotter than L.A. asphalt on the 4th of July. It doesn't matter what it costs - if you like Nissan, the NISMO 350Z is your car.

Driving Sports publisher, Ryan Douthit, posted his thoughts on the NISMO 350Z to the DSTV YouTube Channel.

Nissan wasn't nearly naive enough to let us drive the GT-R on the race track. Sad for us - smart for them.

Audi, BMW, and Mitsubishi Show Their Best

Mitsubishi was present and accounted for with both the two-pedal Evo X MR and manual transmission Evo X GSR. Both cars were popular and the event offered a great opportunity to test them side-by-side with comparable excellent offerings from Audi and BMW. Audi brought the delicious RS4 and the amazing R8, but like the 911, there was a never-ending line of press scribblers for the R8 so we arranged some private time with Audi's supercar in July - stay tuned. The RS4, however, is everything you want an Audi to be - rock solid, fast, and confortable.

BMW brought out the popular new 1-series and the latest iteration of the M3. I drove the M3 on track with BMW's professional coach and turned in what I think was my hottest lap of the day. I've been sharply critical of many BMWs in the past, but the M3 is truly a special machine - BMW does sport sedans best, and the M3 is everything it should be.

Hyundai Wins Big with Sonata

The big surprise of the event was the Hyundai Sonata V6. I took a ride through the country with some of Hyundai's people and I was impressed with the quiet ride, smooth power, and generally luxurious, dignified, and sporty Sonata. The car looks great, rides great, and has every feature you could want, including GPS navigation and a great stereo, and every feature that defines a nice mid-size luxury sedan. I was blown away when they told me that the price point on the V6 Sonata will be about $25,000 - I expected it to be at least 10-large more than that. The same car with a 4-banger will be priced about $20,000, but for so little extra cash, I'm recommending the V6. If you're shopping for a family car with all the trimmings or a business sedan to impress your clients, it's time to consider Hyundai.

And there's the real reason why an event like WAJ Media Days is important - nowhere else do auto writers have the opportunity to get into so many cars in a period of a couple days, with access to experts from the automakers and the chance to put each car through its paces on track and on the street. The amount of information we take in at this event equals a month of typical work. And the end result is that we can do a better job of letting you know what's out there and what's coming down the road.

New Handheld GPS Offers Real-Life View

2008-04-26T10:17:21-07:00

Satellite Navigation takes a technological leap forward today with the launch of the G280 and G800 from NDrive. Boasting the world's first photo mapping system, the G280 and G800 feature real life photo images instead of the traditional 1D/3D maps found on other devices. The new G280 and G800 take navigation to the next level - but unfortunately, it only works in England at the moment. But if it's on the market there, you can bet it'll be here in the states shortly.

This next generation of technology allows you to see what your journey and destination look like from a real life perspective. Photo mapping technology heightens the senses and makes it instantly easier to see where you are and where you are heading. For the first time, see what your destination looks like before setting off! This unique real life 3D photo mapping system features 5 different perspectives; 4 diagonal perspectives plus a bird's eye view. The intuitive system will automatically choose the best perspective for you whilst navigating. Alternatively, you can choose a perspective manually, according to your own preference.

The G280 and G800 feature visual and audible Speed Camera Alerts as standard and both devices are supplied with UK and Ireland Tele Atlas Q1 2008 maps which are stored on an 8GB memory card. European maps are also available on plug and play memory cards and feature photo mapping of major cities throughout Portugal, Spain, France and Italy making these devices ideal for summer holidays, city breaks and second home owners.

Simple to install and use, there's no fuss or additional activation procedures. With intuitive menus and touch screen buttons for easy finger input, the G280 and G800 ensure that what may seem like a daunting task is straight forward for even the most techno-phobic user.

Truly multifunctional, the G280 and G800 have been specifically designed to satisfy the needs of both drivers and pedestrians alike. With a touch of the screen, both devices can operate in pedestrian mode and the inclusion of photo mapping makes navigating on foot a whole new experience. These devices provide a like-for-like perspective of the roads, buildings and landmarks around you, giving a true sense of where you are in relation to your surroundings. Both the G280 and G800 also include a comprehensive POI database.

Classically designed, trendsetters will appreciate the G280 and G800's great looks. Smart lines and a compact, yet ergonomic exterior, is sure to appeal to even the most fashion conscious of gadget lovers. Featuring truly portable designs the G280 and G800 will easily slip into a pocket, handbag or briefcase when not is use. The units also feature extremely tactile, scratch resistant durable rubber casing, so that in the event of accidental knocks and bumps, the units are protected and remain looking as good as new.

In addition to navigation ability and in keeping with their premium status, the G280 and G800 also enable you to integrate your digital lifestyle to make mobile adventures even more entertaining. With support for audio, video and photos, all of which can be transferred via the SD card slot or USB and played back either via the built-in loudspeaker or listened to through earphones, the G280 and G800 make the perfect travel companion, whether traveling by train, in the car or on foot. The G800 also features Bluetooth functionality as well as an FM transmitter to play music and navigation instructions seamlessly through the car stereo speakers.

The launch of the G280 and G800 sees NDrive underline its philosophy of providing cutting edge technology that is easy and fun to use.

Availability

The G280 and G800 will be available at the end of April from Smart Devices, www.smartdevicesdirect.com priced at GBP199.00 inc VAT and GBP315.00 inc VAT respectively.

Additional Information

N-Drive's photo mapping is currently available in the following UK cities; Aberdeen, Belfast, Birmingham, Blackpool, Bristol, Barnsley, Burnley, Cardiff, Coventry, Derby, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Hull, Leeds, Leicester, Liverpool, London, Luton, Newcastle, Norwich, Nottingham, Plymouth, Preston, Reading, Sheffield, Stoke, Swansea and Wigan. Where photo mapping is not currently available, the G280 and G800 will automatically switch to standard TeleAtlas mapping. NDrive is working to include further UK cities.

Supercar Life Expands Options for Hot Rides

2008-04-26T10:12:30-07:00

Supercar Life, the first adventure lifestyle company to offer drives of exotic cars on racetracks, is expanding its program lineup to appeal to hard core driving enthusiasts as well as to those who prefer to travel first class.

Supercar Life's new Track Package ($4,990) includes a full day piloting $1.5-million worth of supercars on premier tracks around the country. The Luxury Package ($5,690), formerly the only option, adds top-shelf accommodations, gourmet dinner and VIP ground transportation. Details and registration can be found at www.supercarlife.com or by calling 1.877.420.0090.

A fantasy camp for driving enthusiasts, Supercar Life's lineup includes two each of the Ferrari F430 ($178,906/490hp), Lamborghini Gallardo ($175,000/512hp), Porsche 911 Turbo ($122,900/480hp), Aston-Martin DB9 ($165,400/450hp) and Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series Coupe ($138,000/500hp). All are equipped with paddle shifters or automatic transmissions for ease of use.

Both programs also include a cocktail reception, coaching from Supercar Life's staff of professional Indy, Daytona, and Sports Car drivers, catered trackside breakfast and lunch, post-event champagne toast, parting gifts, and a personalized in-car video of the experience.

Supercar Life dates include April 29, May 6 and May 7 (sold out) at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, California (formerly California Speedway), and July 8 (sold out), 9 and 10, August 26 and 27, September 9 and 10, and October 7 and 8 at the new New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, New Jersey.

Whichever package Supercar Life clients choose, they are guaranteed an exclusive experience. A maximum 15 per event guarantees hours behind the wheels. A brief classroom session focuses on basic competition driving and safety techniques. Clients must be at least 21 and hold a valid driver's license.

About Supercar Life

The Supercar Life concept was created in December 2006 by car enthusiasts and businessmen Jan Otto and Jonathan Kanter, to give other enthusiasts the opportunity to drive supercars at speeds they were built for. The first event was run in April 2007. Supercar Life offers its unique luxury driving experience year round at premier race tracks around the country. Private corporate and team-building events are available. The company is based in Osterville, Mass. and can be found online at www.supercarlife.com or by calling 1.877.420.0090.