Continuing the brands march towards a return to real names, Lincoln will be reintroducing the Aviator nameplate later this summer.Adopting a handsome face featuring the companys corporate grille signatures, the new Aviator will pack some gee-whiz suspension technology while borrowing one cool trick from the gorgeous Mark VIII coupe on sale twenty-five years ago.The new model introduces a suspension system that pairs something Lincoln is calling pothole mitigation with road preview technology to deliver a smooth and refined ride. The system uses a forward-facing camera to see upcoming bumps in the road, then automatically adjusts settings faster than a wink of an eye to mitigate whatever unpleasant impact is in the offing.This adaptive suspension also deploys a suite of 12 sensors that monitor vehicle motion and body movement. These sensors are said to read the road 500 times per second and can automatically prompt setting adjustments up to 100 times per second. Your author is struggling to come up with an analogy for that speed. More frequently than a toddler throws their sippy cup on the floor? Perhaps.That pothole mitigation is more than just a bit of marketing whimsy. The system can sense when a wheel is dropping into a severe dip, stiffening the shock absorber to reduce the amount of drop.This lessens the harshness of a tire strike and, with each wheel responding independently, allows the vehicle to tailor its response to any given road surface. The software was developed in-house, by the way. We look forward to trying it on the ruined roads around our office. As for that Mark VIII bit of theatre? Those long of memory will remember that model had a commercial in which a swashbuckling driver inched his two-door Lincoln up to a solid metal bar spanning the roadway, illustrating that his car was just a smidge too tall to proceed.Our hero drives out of the shot only to return at 110km/h, barrelling towards the same decapitating bar. This time, he easily squeaks under the obstacle thanks to his Lincolns air suspension and its ability to lower itself a smidgen at speed.The 2020 Aviator deploys the same party trick when equipped with available Air Glide suspension, hunkering down to Aero Height at 110 km/h in a bid to increase fuel economy; and firming up the handling. Other settings will allow Aviator to stand on its tippy-toes in deep snow; or kneel down to make entry and exit easier.Look for the new Lincoln Aviator to appear on dealer lots later this
Origin: New Lincoln Aviator aims for a buttery smooth ride
Cadillac may build an Escalade EV with almost 650 km of range
2018 Cadillac EscaladeHandout / Cadillac Cadillacs next-generation Escalade could offer electric power for the first time, and, somehow, the massive and heavy SUV might even be able to net 400 miles (643 km) of battery range.According to anonymous inside sources speaking to the Cadillac Society, the fifth-generation Cadillac Escalade will offer more than just the standard 6.2-litre V8 gasoline powertrainthere will also be a high-performance version that uses Cadillacs 4.2-litre twin-turbo Blackwing motor.Both will allegedly use a 10-speed automatic transmission, and be available in either two- or four-wheel-drive. But rumours are for buyers wanting to go green, were looking at a plug-in hybrid a la the CT6 PHEV; as well as a fully electric model with a surprising amount of range.It isnt that surprising, however, because when you have a truck thats already heavy and huge, you dont have to worry about adding a bunch of battery weightthe chassis can already handle it. The next-generation Escalade will debut in 2021, but the electric option wont arrive right when the vehicle debuts. It will likely come later in the life cycle of the truck, the sources say.When it does debut, however, it will give the Tesla Model X a run for its money, as currently the top model of that vehicle only gets 325 miles to the charge. Of course, that number might be upgraded by the time the Escalade EV is released.The luxury-minded Escalade will also see NVH (noise/vibration/harness) levels drop thanks to the electric powertrain. And if you flick on the latest version of Cadillac Super Cruise while youre behind the wheel, it might be hard to shake the feeling youre sitting in your living room at
Origin: Cadillac may build an Escalade EV with almost 650 km of range
Volvo could expand its range with larger and smaller SUVs
2019 Volvo XC90Handout / Volvo Volvo could be planning even more SUV models, based on the success of its utility vehicles around the world specifically, it may look to fill its lineup with trucks both larger and smaller than anything in its range today.We are not excluding the idea of additions to the companys SUV range, CEO Hakkan Samuelsson said in talks with Auto Express, before adding that when it comes to Volvos crossovers, pundits should not exclude the idea that there might be a bigger one, but maybe also a smaller one.According to a story from Swedish outlet Teknikens Varld, the Swedish brand has known its needed a vehicle larger than the XC90 to compete with other brands offerings since 2002, but a lack of funds from former parent company Ford stalled development.However, since Volvo was bought by Geely in 2010, the brand has reopened the idea of creating an XC100 based on the SPA 2 archicecture, internally called Project V616.(When broken down, the codename reveals the project is part of class 6, for Volvos largest cars; 1 for a first-generation model; and another 6 to denote an SUV.)The same Swedish outlet says the XC100 will arrive in 2022 or 2023; that it will be five inches longer in wheelbase than the current XC90; and that it will sit an inch taller.As for the SUV smaller than the XC40? It hasnt been totally fleshed out yet, but its possible it will borrow technology from Geely, and might only be leased, not sold. It will also likely feature an electric powertrain, as the XC40 is already rumoured to receive
Origin: Volvo could expand its range with larger and smaller SUVs
Ford to cut roughly 200 workers at Oakville plant
The robots do their work on the line in the Ford Oakville assembly plant, on June 7, 2013. Workers and robotics work together in the million square feet facility to produce over 200,00 cars a year. Ford plans to lay off about 200 of the 4,600 workers at its Oakville, Ontario assembly plant come September, the automaker announced mid-July, and may let go even more employees there in January.We have been arguing as a local for the past several weeks trying to persuade the company from somehow avoiding this scenario, but to no avail, Dave Thomas, president of Unifor Local 707, in Oakville, Ontario, was quoted on the unions website last week.As always, its based on a business decision and it all comes down to dollars and cents, he said.The plant turns out the Ford Flex and Lincoln MXT, both of which have seen sales slow considerably, the automaker said. The Ford Edge, another Oakville-built product, is also seeing demand drop after it was pulled from several markets in Europe.We have a longstanding practice of matching production with consumer demand, Kelli Felker, Fords manufacturing and labour communications manager, told
Origin: Ford to cut roughly 200 workers at Oakville plant
Want a 2020 Lexus LS 500? Take a look down memory lane
2019 Lexus LS 500Handout LIBERIA, Costa Rica So, you want a new LS 500. Well now, arent you in the minority? Whats wrong with you? Dont you know large, luxury sedans are totally pass? Why arent you shopping some over-priced, underperforming sport-ute like all your peers? Seriously, in this day of rampant me-tooism, if you want to stand out, buy a sedan. If youre independently foolish and really want to stand out, get an LS 500.Not that theres anything wrong with Lexus latest flagship sedan. Its actually a bit of a stunner as long as you can stomach the muy-macho grille and doesnt go half bad, either.One surprising thing is that Lexus doesnt offer the new LS with eight pistons; a V6 is the only available engine. However, both are fortified, the regular LS with twin turbochargers and the LS500h with a naturally-aspirated 3.5-litre V6 mated to Toyotas Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain. Both will provide more than adequate performance, though, despite Lexus protestations to the contrary, the Hybrid doesnt feel nearly as sporty as the turbo. Always relaxed partially because its mated to a ten-speed automatic the 416-horsepower V6 unit scoots when it has to, trundles when youre relaxed, and will if its anything like Lexus motors past will do so until your children are grandparents.The LS ride/handling balance fairly matches its engine. Not nearly as sprightly as a Maserati Quattroporte and still a smidge behind BMWs 7 Series, the latest LS is still up for the job of straightening twisty roads. Those so inclined are best served by opting for the air suspensions its standard equipment on the LS500h and switching the mode button to Sport+. The steering becomes heavier, the springing firmer, and the whole plot a little more inciting, all without much ruining the big Lexus ride. Inside, the LS is pretty much the treat youre expecting, sumptuous leather covering roomy seats and delicate wood trim. This last gets special attention as all Lexus artwood inlays are built by Yamahas music division, my favourite being the one with the aluminum highlights. According Paul Williamsen, head of Lexus global marketing planning, Yamaha first overlays a wood veneer onto an aluminum substrate. Then it etches the patter it wants to remove the upper wood, leaving the aluminum underneath exposed. But because the aluminum is at a lower level than the wood and we certainly cant have an uneven surface in a Lexus, can we? Yamaha then vacuum seals the entire piece sucking the underlying metal onto an even keel with the overlaid wood. Wow, thats a lot of trouble for a few metal pinstripes.Williamsen says this is part and parcel of the companys Experience Amazing strategy: In the battle of marketing slogans, I think relentlessly pursuing perfection is a better measure of Lexus obvious obsessive compulsion.Only two foibles (may) mar the LS 500s interior. Lexus touchpad manipulated infotainment screen is either a love it or hate it affair. By love it or hate it, I mean everyone hates it at the beginning and then a few learn to, well, almost like it. Its polarizing. Almost as wonky but not nearly as polarizing are the multi-function switches puts on each side of the instrument binnacle. It either reminds you of a fighter jet or looks like someone forgot the wipes until the very last moment. Either way, it doesnt really compromise ergonomics so its not nearly as polarizing as the touchpad.Overall, the LS500, like all large luxury sedans, perhaps more than most, doesnt deserve to be ignored. Its a luxurious, spacious and well-crafted sedan, that last word the only reason its not more popular. No pricing is available on the 2020 yet, but the 2019 LS starts at $103,150 and Lexus Canada has some screaming deals going on right now. 2018 Lexus LC 500 Handout / Lexus Damn the family, I want two doors: Well, has Lexus got a sports coupe for you. Based on the same platform as the LS, the LC 500 has two things going for it. The first is that, unlike the sedan, the coupe is still offered with a naturally aspirated, we-dont-need-no-stinking-turbos 5.0-litre V8. The same one offered in the RC F, in fact: 471 horsepower, a 10-speed transmission, and some seriously stiff suspension make for an entertaining ride. Officially, the reason the twin-turbo V6 doesnt power the LC is that it wasnt quite ready when the big coupe was being engineered, but I think Lexus engineers just wanted to make some noise. The LC500 delivers. Indeed, while the LC is available as a hybrid and I recommend that powertrain for the LS the LC is best served by the rootin and tootin V8.More importantly, the LC500 has a face Maserati would die for. Lexus spindle grille may be a little overwrought for its run-of-the-mill sedans and soft-roaders, but it matches the LCs curves and creases perfectly. I dont usually render critiques about styling as my eye may not behold the same image as your own but I think this is the sexiest sport coupe extent. On looks
Origin: Want a 2020 Lexus LS 500? Take a look down memory lane
Jaguar confirms its new J-Pace SUV will be Defender-based
2018 Jaguar F-Pace Diesel R-Sport Jaguar has confirmed its developing a new SUV, the J-Pace, whichll share a platform with the next-generation Land Rover Range Rover and Range Rover Sport.The new platform is called MLA, and will debut underpinning the highly anticipated redesigned Land Rover Defender before making its way into most of Jaguar Land Rovers (JLR) models.Since the new Defender is expected sometime around 2021, we should see prototypes for the J-Pace soon.A timeline hasnt been shared, but judges involved in the World Car of the Year Awards program were given an early look at the truck. They were also given an update on the next-generation F-Type, as well as a look at the new electric XJ and an XE replacement.The mid-sized SUV will compete with the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE, and will feature third-row seats. The biggest benefit of the MLA platform is the ability to support hybrid and fuel-cell powertrains, which should future-proof the car.An all-electric variant is also likely to debut, to fall in line with JLRs prediction that 20 per cent of car sales will be electric by 2025. Since the J-Pace will be built on a Range Rover platform, we can expect it will perform pretty well off-road, although we dont expect owners to actually leave the pavement. No matter, however; being a Jag, it is likely to be more suited for the beaten path rather than off it.More SUVs will likely be coming from Jaguar, too, thanks to the success of the Ian Callum-designed F-Pace, including two that could be named the A-Pace and
Origin: Jaguar confirms its new J-Pace SUV will be Defender-based
Volvo recalls 507,000 vehicles as probe finds fire risk
According to the U.S. IIHS, the outgoing Volvo XC60 is one of only two midsize SUVs on sale with acceptable headlight performance. Swedish automaker Volvo Cars is recalling 507,000 vehicles worldwide because of a faulty engine component that, in extreme cases, could result in a fire.The company, which is owned by Chinas Zhejiang Geely, said its own investigations have identified that in very rare cases the plastic engine intake manifold may melt and deform.In the very worst case, there is a possibility that a localized engine bay fire may occur, it said.When asked to provide details of the potential financial impact, Stefan Elfstrom, a spokesman for Volvo Cars, said, We dont comment on the cost. The company is keen to fix the faulty vehicles as fast as possible and customers wont incur any costs related to addressing the error, he said.The cars being recalled were produced in 2014 through 2019 and have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, Volvo Cars said in an emailed statement. The affected models are the S60, S80, S90, V40, V60, V70, V90, XC60 and XC90. While the company has no reports of accidents or personal injuries, all customers will receive a letter asking them to contact their local retailer for corrective
Origin: Volvo recalls 507,000 vehicles as probe finds fire risk
Hyundai Shuffles Veloster lineup, drops manual option for everything but Turbo
Hyundai is changing the names of its trim lines for the Veloster, as well as taking away the manual transmission options for the lower, non-turbocharged trims.Before, we had 2.0L, Turbo, and Turbo Tech, now we have Preferred, Luxury, and Turbo, with only the Turbo trim option carrying forward the manual transmission for the 2020 model year.Starting at $22,399, the base model Preferred trim of the Veloster comes with a 2.0-litre engine that makes 147 horsepower, price has gone up $2,000 from the 2019 model. The Luxury trim also comes with the same engine, priced at $25,099. Both Preferred and Luxury trims come with a six-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode, the manual option is no longer available for these two trims. The Turbo Tech trim is disappearing, effectively merging with the $27,499 Turbo trim as the sole option available with the 201 horsepower 1.6-litre turbocharged engine. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is available for another $1,500.The Turbo trim option adds a few niceties to the Preferred and Luxury trims, including leather seats, a 4.2-inch cluster display, LED headlights and Taillights, and alloy wheels.The Veloster N is also on the table, and thatll set you back a little more cash at $34,999, but for that price, you get a 275-horsepower 2.0-litre turbo-four, sport exhaust, 19-inch wheels, selectable drive modes, and its six-speed manual transmission is graced with rev-matching.Shame to see the manual options go on the cheapest of the trim levels, but were glad Hyundai is keeping it around for the more sporty trims that enthusiasts are more likely to
Origin: Hyundai Shuffles Veloster lineup, drops manual option for everything but Turbo
Cosworth will provide hybrid technology for BTCC in 2022
British Touring Car Championship organiser TOCA has announced that Cosworth Electronics will supply hybrid powertrains for the race series from 2022. The new technology will be integrated into the competing cars’ existing 2.0-litre turbocharged powertrains, to keep costs down, and will be used primarily for passing and defending manoeuvres on track. But cars will also operate in full-electric mode in the pitlane. The system will allow the BTCC to forego its current ‘success ballast’ system from 2022. Instead of race winners carrying more weight in their next outing, their hybrid usage will be more tightly restricted. Cosworth Electronics, a subsidiary of renowned engineering firm Cosworth, won the tender having demonstrated it could meet the packaging, performance and cost requirements outlined by TOCA. The compact 60-volt system comprises a gearbox-mounted electric motor and separate cooling unit. A bespoke battery and its associated hardware, alongside modifications to the gearbox and ancillaries, entails an estimated 64kg weight gain for each car. Early tests have shown that the most significant performance boost comes at the bottom of the rev range. The BTCC claims “the hybrid power burst will bring the engine up into the turbo ‘window’ more quickly”. Activating hybrid mode will temporarily add approximately 40bhp to a car’s power output, claims the BTCC. A simulation based on Silverstone revealed that a hybrid-equipped racer would accelerate faster out of Copse Corner than a conventionally-fuelled current model. Drivers can control how much energy they recuperate and deploy throughout the race, with a steering wheel-mounted button that engages and disengages the hybrid motor. The system will also deactivate under braking, when the pre-determined time limit has been reached or when throttle input changes suddenly. The BTCC is conducting tests to determine the exact rules of hybrid technology usage in races, but has confirmed that it cannot be deployed for more than a total of 15 seconds per lap. Cosworth’s hybrid powertrain will cost teams £20,500 per season (£2050 per race). The competition’s shift to electrification was first announced in 2018, with testing scheduled to get underway as early as next year. The BTCC says hybridisation “could have been introduced from 2021” but “it was decided to stay with the original 2022 introduction date in order to allow ample
Origin: Cosworth will provide hybrid technology for BTCC in 2022
New 400bhp Audi RS Q3 Sportback hits the road in new shots
Audi’s seventh SUV range addition – the new Q3 Sportback – is due to be revealed late tonight, and our spy photographers have caught the hot RS variant testing. The Range Rover Evoque and BMW X2 rival will be revealed to the world in the first images and details ahead of an expected Frankfurt motor show public debut in September. We’ve seen the standard variants in disguise several times, but the RS Q3 Sportback has now been captured with less camo. Identifiable by its dual oval sports exhaust tips, Audi Sport logos on the brakes, and the air intake, grille and wheel styling, the RS Q3 Sportback is expected to use an all-new 2.5-litre five-cylinder petrol engine that produces up to 400bhp. As with the previous spy pictures, the new shots show the style-focused, coupé-SUV design of the new machine, which is based on the latest-generation Q3. The front-end design shares much with the recently launched Q3, but it has a distinctly lower roofline and a sloping rear windscreen that meets a squarer tailgate. Audi exterior design boss Andreas Mindt previously said the Q3 Sportback was “a bit more than a coupé version of the Q3; to my eyes, a lot more”. He confirmed the designers had finished the styling last year, and that it had one feature in particular to really set it apart from other Audis. The German firm previously confirmed the Q3 Sportback would be produced in 2019 at its plant in Győr, Hungary. It will be part of a growing line-up of style-led SUVs, spearheaded by the electric E-tron and range-topping Q8. The Q3 Sportback will sit on the same MQB underpinnings as the second-generation Q3. It is scheduled to arrive in showrooms towards the end of 2019 at a base price of around £28,000. With the Q3 having grown in size in order to provide space in the range for the Q2, the Sportback looks set to be larger than its closest rivals. Audi insiders have revealed to Autocar that it will be at least 4500mm long – slightly longer than the Q3. Plans for the Q3 Sportback were originally revealed by Audi in the form of the TT Offroad concept, which first appeared at the 2014 Beijing motor show. Inside, the Q3 Sportback is set to benefit from a range of developments already under way at Audi and parent company Volkswagen for inclusion in the next generation of MQB-based models. These include full-HD instrument displays, gesture control functions, a 9.2in touchscreen, wireless smartphone charging and the latest connectivity features. Among the engines earmarked for the Q3 Sportback is a new generation of 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol and diesel units and updated versions of today’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The new line-up will also feature a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid Sportback E-tron model with an electric-only range of up to 31 miles, as prescribed by China’s green vehicle
Origin: New 400bhp Audi RS Q3 Sportback hits the road in new shots
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