2018 Hyundai Santa Cruz: News, Pricing and Release Date

In 1932, Ford Australia received a letter from the wife of a farmer asking for a vehicle that could get their family to church on Sundays and carry the couple's pigs to the market on Mondays. She grew tired of riding in her husband's truck and arriving to church fully saturated in pig excrement. At the time, bankers would only lend money to farmers to buy a farm truck, not a regular sedan. So the farmer and his wife were stuck with a truck. Eventually, the letter ended up working, as Ford later released the 1934 Ford Coupe Utility, a vehicle with a coupe shape and a separate, isolated bed for the piggies. And twenty-five years after that, GM took it to the next level by unveiling the 1959 Chevrolet El Camino, a model more widely known to have started the coupe-ute trend.

More Crossover Than Truck

And now Hyundai is set to bring back that popular style and give a twist with the all-new 2018 Hyundai Santa Cruz. Think of it as having the cabin of a crossover with the flexibility and utility of a pickup truck. Perfect for city slickers and urban adventurers alike. Who hasn't had a trip to Home Depot with four buddies at 9 o'clock on a Sunday evening needing a sheet of drywall.
Although the Santa Cruz is a concept, Hyundai does have plans to produce the model. Hyundai spent a great deal of time analyzing the lifestyles of Millennials, and the initial prototypes looks pretty awesome--regardless of demographics.

Easy to Drive and Park

One thing that jumps right out is the overall compactness of the Santa Cruz. It's not overpowering but still looks menacing. The goal was to provide a crossover truck with the footprint of a crossover to help make driving and parking easier in big cities like Los Angeles, New York and Chicago.
For those who plan on making the Santa Cruz a daily driver for both work and play, a lockable integrated tonneau cover keeps the toolbox and/or sports gear out of sight while also offering built-in drawers for smaller items.

Pricing and Release Date

So we're sure you're thinking that you've seen this before with the Chevy Avalanche and Honda Ridgeline. The difference is that this is more of a crossover than a truck. It will also be priced like one. Hyundai has not released official figures, but we're estimating that it will cost about $20k to start and have a release date of September 2017.

Pictured: 2018 Hyundai Santa Cruz (Source: Hyundai)

2017 Hyundai Elantra: Redesign Info, Pricing, Release Date

Overview

The Hyundai Elantra will be re-engineered for the 2017 model year. While it will not be a full redesign, initial concept imagery provided by Hyundai suggests some of the sleekness of the Genesis Sedan with a tight front-end reminiscent of a Mazda3. It's unclear how much will translate to the production model, but the automaker may be aiming to move away from the swoopy design of the current model.

The 2017 model will be based on the same platform as the 2016 model, featuring new sheet metal and a revised interior. The new vehicle will reportedly involve a greater use of high-strength steel to achieve better handling and both a smoother and quieter ride.

No other specifics have officially been released by Hyundai yet. Expect more information to become available as we approach the vehicle's launch.

The 2017 Elantra will be contending with some exciting competition in 2016, notably the 2016 Honda Civic employing a new 1.5-liter turbo, the Mazda3 capable of up to 41 mpg highway, and a completely redesigned 2016 Chevy Cruze.

Pricing & Release Date

Official pricing has not yet been released. At this time, we expect prices to be in line with the current model, which starts at $17,250 for the Elantra SE before an $825 destination charge. Stay tuned for the official announcement from Hyundai.
The 2017 Hyundai Elantra is expected to go on sale in early 2016.

Pictured: 2017 Elantra Concept (Source: Hyundai Global)

2018 Hyundai Genesis Coupe: Preview, Release Date

Preview

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is due for a major redesign for the 2018 model year.
Unfortunately, very little is known about the new model. However, it's currently believed that Hyundai will borrow heavily from the styling of the HND-9 Concept (pictured) which could elevate the model's premium appeal.

Unconfirmed reports suggest the possibility the new car may be powered by a 3.3L twin-turbo V6 engine producing 365 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque. Expect more details to become available closer to launch.

Release Date

The next-generation 2018 Hyundai Genesis is currently expected to debut sometime in 2017. Shoppers not wanting to wait until then may want to consider some of the outstanding deals we've been seeing on the current model.
Stay tuned for the latest release information.

Images: Hyundai Motor Company

2017 Mazda CX-9: Pricing, Features and Release Date

Mazda's looking to beef up sales of the aging 2015 CX-9 crossover with an all-new model set to be released next year. With Mazda's hot-selling CX-5 accumulating accolades left, right and center, look for the all-new CX-9 to share many of the styling cues from the CX-5.

SKYACTIV technology will prominently be featured on the new CX-9. A 3.5L V6 will produce roughly 300 horsepower while getting roughly 19/27 MPG--improvements over the current gen's 17/23 MPG.

The 2017 Mazda CX-9 will go on sale in November of 2016 with a price of around $33k.

Pictured: 2017 Mazda CX-9 (Source: Mazda)

2016 Mazda Mazdaspeed3: Specs, Pricing and Release Date

The Mazda Mazdaspeed3 is one of our favorite sporty compact cars of all time and one of the most lively and fun-to-drive hot hatches to land on American soil. Winning three Car and Driver 10 Best awards and three Ward’s 10 Best Engines awards for its turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder, the previous-generation car delighted a new generation of Mazda enthusiasts, despite its torque-steer-prone FWD layout. Now with a new generation of Mazda3 for 2014, the ‘Speed model has vanished, but only temporarily.
Alas, good things come to those who wait, and we don't mind waiting because Mazda has a tendency to really hit home runs, especially with the upcoming 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Big Updates

A new report from Japanese publication Holiday Auto claims insider information that a new Mazdaspeed3 is indeed in development, set for a release date as a 2016 model. Contrary to earlier reports claiming Mazda may go high-performance diesel, the report states that a new direct-injection and turbocharged high-output 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G gasoline engine will be found underhood, outputting in excess of 295 horsepower and possibly as many as 320 horsepower. And in even bigger news, power will be sent to all four wheels with a new AWD system, an exciting proposition for true sports car enthusiasts.

Competition

That would move the Mazdaspeed3 up-market a bit. The most recent model, with its 263-horsepower, 2.3-liter I4 and FWD, competed with the Ford Focus ST and VW GTI. The power bump and AWD handling will allow the new car to go toe-to-toe with the redesigned Subaru WRX STI for ultimate sport compact car supremacy. With the new Mazda3’s extremely lightweight, well-sorted chassis as a starting point, this could be the most exciting car to come from the house of Zoom-Zoom since the RX-7.

Pricing

Expect Mazda’s latest STI killer in dealerships late next year, most likely as a 2016 model. Start saving those pennies now, as pricing is sure to rise over what Mazda was charging for the previous-generation car. A ballpark figure of just under $30,000 seems to be the target price.

Pictured: 2016 Mazda Mazdaspeed3 (Source: Mazda)

2020 Mazda RX-9: News and Release Date

Overview

After the long-running Mazda RX-8 left production in 2012 following poor sales and a failure to meet stringent Euro-zone emissions requirements, Mazda was left with a conundrum: should they abandon the rotary engine entirely, great for sporty performance but traditionally not so good for environmental and reliability concerns?

The RX-8 took some heat for being softer and less engaging than the chassis-code "FD" RX-7 car that preceded it, and while it was still a competent driver, it just lacked that certain special edge. Before the company revitalized itself with a slew of strong new products, it looked as if the rotary was dead.

Enter the RX-9. An 800cc, dual-rotor hybrid powertrain is rumored to be in the initial stages of development. Early rumors suggest the engine may produce at least 350 horsepower. If approved for production, Mazda may aim to debut it as a halo car ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Stay tuned for the latest updates.

Pictured: Mazda Shinari concept featuring Kodo "Soul of Motion" design.

2017 Jaguar XE: Pricing, News and Release Date

 

If you had around $40k to spend, what car would you buy? A 2015 BMW 328? It drives and handles better than almost any luxury sport sedan available. If you want more of a plush ride with a more edgier styling, you could opt for a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. Or maybe the ultra-reliable 2015 Lexus IS 350.

The fact of the matter is, you should wait. The new 2017 Jaguar XE is a real looker, and it has the features and styling to set it apart. As it stands now, the most affordable Jaguar is the XF, which starts at a healthy $50,182.

Engine Options

Two engine options will exist: a 237-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged “Ingenium” four-cylinder will serve as the base model, while the F-Type’s excellent supercharged 3.0-liter V6 will make 345 horsepower as the upscale choice (and price).

Pricing and Release Date

To compete with the more mainstream 3-Series and C-Class, Jaguar will release the all-new XE. It will cost around $37,000 to start and will be available in 2016.

Pictured: 2017 Jaguar XE (Source: Jaguar)

2018 Honda CR-Z: Rumors, Release Date

The Start

Ah yes, 1987. That was the year that the second and final generation of Honda's coveted cult-classic, the CR-X, would begin its journey into the annals of affordable performance. It would quietly get tucked in to bed four short years later in 1991. The car had it all: nimble handling, a bulletproof drivetrain and exceptional fuel economy. Helping to forge all those attributes was a lightweight unibody chassis which helped the CR-X tip the scales at around 1,900 pounds. But it punched way above its weight class. Mind you, this all could be had at a price that every citizen could afford. Pricing for the top-of-the-line model came in at $7,999. And it came in three wildly-different trim levels: DX, HF and Si. Will that change?

Rumors

The CR-Z, like the prior generation and its CR-X forefather, will likely only seat two. With that disclaimer out of the way, let's dig into the meat & potatoes of the potential release. We say potential because there is no official news from Honda in regards to this leak.

First off, it seems that Honda has been planning the next CR-Z for awhile now. The automaker is trying to beef up its credibility after the loss of the S2000 and Acura's Integra Type-R in 2001. An all-new 2016 Honda Civic is on the horizon. But in terms of performance, the two models from the brand that will make it to the U.S. are the Civic Type-R and the brand's more upscale (and more expensive) 2016 Acura NSX. Will the 2018 CR-Z also join them? We can't say for certain, but we, like many enthusiasts, are hoping.

Release Date

If the 2018 Honda CR-Z gets the green light, the model might go on sale if the model does get the green light, look for it to go on sale in the summer of 2017--just in time to wake the CR-X from it's thirty-year slumber. And if you simply cannot wait, the 2016 Honda CR-Z is on the horizon.

Pictured: 2015 Honda CR-Z HPD Edition

2016 Chrysler 300C: Overview, Pricing, Release Date

Overview

The 2016 Chrysler 300C will return for another model year and continue the path in which the 2015 travelled. The 300C represents the brand's most luxurious model. It's a full-size sedan with muscular stance and unmistakable grille. In 2015, the model received updated styling and a more well-thought out interior with tasteful materials and trim pieces. Moreover, it received a nice batch of safety updates.

For 2016, the model continues largely unchanged. It will still come with a 3.6L V6 which produces 300 horsepower and 264 lb-ft worth of torque. The engine will be paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission which will help it to earn 19/31 mpg in RWD configuration. If buyers opt for the available AWD drivetrain, fuel economy takes a noticeable hit and will eek out 18/27 mpg. That being said, buyers in regions of the country with more inclimate weather will find the AWD a necessity.

Two trims will also continue to be offered: Base and Platinum. Both RWD and AWD drivetrains will also be offered for each trim.

Pricing

Pricing for the 2016 Chrysler 300C will start at $39,065 for the Base RWD trim, which includes the mandatory $995 destination charge. Pricing for the more upscale Platinum RWD trim will start at $43,390. Both prices represent mild $230 and $50 price increases, respectively.

Release Date

No official release date for the 2016 Chrysler 300C has been announced, but look for it to go on sale later this year.

2016 Chevrolet Spark EV: Overview & Release Date

 

Overview

Although the Chevrolet Spark EV was initially only sold in California and Oregon, the 2016 model will be available in more state this year: Maryland. For 2016, the Spark EV is largely unchanged. However, tax credits are still available, which will help to lower the price significantly.

The Spark EV continues to be the quickest all-electric car in its class, recording 7.2-second 0-60 times. But emissions-free fun is only half of the unique nature of the Spark EV.

The other half of the Spark EV's appeal is saving money. It's estimated that an owner will save $83/month in fuel costs according to EPA assessments. Lastly, the Spark EV is one of the easiest vehicles to maneuver and park--electric or otherwise, making it an excellent vehicle for those who commute in or around big cities.

In addition, when fully charged, the Spark EV will get a an EPA-estimated range of 82 miles and EPA-estimated 119 MPGe fuel economy equivalent.

Pricing

Two different trim levels will continue to be offered:
2016 Chevrolet Spark EV 1LT - MSRP $25,995
2016 Chevrolet Spark EV 2LT - MSRP $26,385
Both prices include the mandatory $825 destination charge.

Release Date

The 2016 Chevrolet Spark EV should go on sale in late 2015.

 Pictured: 2016 Chevrolet Spark EV (Source: Chevrolet)

2015 Tesla Model X: Overview, Pricing, Release Date

Overview

The Tesla Model X is an all-new battery electric crossover vehicle.
The new model will aim to follow the success of the Model S premium sport sedan that initially debuted in 2012. It will combine leading EV technology with a premium driving experience in a crossover design capable of seating up to 7 passengers.

The Model X will come with an all-wheel drive system based on the dual-motor design that debuted on the 2015 Model S. Official specs and fuel economy estimates have not yet been released, but we know the Model S 70D with dual motors comes with a 70 kWh battery good for up to 240 miles of driving range and a 0-60 mph time of 5.2 seconds. Stay tuned for more detailed information closer to launch.

Perhaps the most notable exterior feature will be a four-door liftback design with distinctive "falcon-wing" doors. Little is currently known about interior equipment, although it's reasonable to expect a continued emphasis on technological integration akin to the excellent large touchscreen found in the Model S.

Pricing & Release Date

Full official pricing has not yet been released. However, Tesla has revealed that top-spec Signature models that debut at launch will cost between $132,000 and $144,000, according to Automotive News. Initial deliveries are expected to start September 29 to customers with existing reservations.

Tesla has been taking orders on their website for those willing to plunk down a $5,000 deposit. This is double the $2,500 deposit on the Model S. Tesla is reportedly claiming that at least 15,000 buyers have placed orders. New reservations currently have an estimated delivery period in early 2016.

Stay tuned for the latest release info as it becomes available.

Check out the 2012 debut of the Model X in the video below. Skip to 15:15 for the best part.

Pictured: 2015 Tesla Model X (Source: Tesla)

2017 Kia Sportage: Preview, Pricing, Release Date

Overview

The Kia Sportage is due for a substantial update for the 2017 model year. Although it will be re-engineered on its current platform, it will receive new sheet metal and look very much like a different vehicle.

Based on images released ahead of the Frankfurt Auto Show, Kia appears to be hoping a fresh exterior will help set the vehicle apart from the competition. For its fourth generation, the automaker is opting for a more raked-back look for a sculpted appearance. This may end up helping differentiate the Sportage from the Hyundai Tucson, which was re-engineered for 2016 but features a more conventional design.

A key update appears to be a higher-positioned front headlight no longer integrated with the front grille. The design is reminiscent of the Nissan Juke, which has arguably featured one of the more quirky designs unlike traditional choices like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4. The Kia "tiger grille" seen on models like the Kia Forte has been enlarged.

No major changes are expected to the available powertrains, which currently consist of a base 2.4-liter 4-cylinder or a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with direct injection. The base engine currently produces 182 hp with 177 ft-lbs of peak torque, while the turbo makes 260 hp with 269 ft-lbs. Transmission choices are not due for any major updates from the current model's 6-speed automatic.

Expect more detailed info to become available closer to launch.

Pricing & Release Date

Official pricing has not yet been announced. However, it's reasonable to expect Kia will aim to keep the Sportage accessible. The current model ranges from $22,150 to $31,490 excluding destination, nearly identical to the Hyundai Tucson.

When the Tucson was re-engineered for 2016, it received a $1,050 bump in price and became a bit more upscale with the elimination of the base GLS. It remains to be seen how Kia will decide to position the next Sportage.

The 2017 Kia Sportage is currently expected to arrive in Fall 2016. Stay tuned for the latest release info.

Pictured: Euro-spec Kia Sportage (Source: Kia)

2016 Honda Civic: News, Updates and Release Date

Overview

The Honda Civic is due for a major redesign for the 2016 model year.

Honda's bestselling compact car is due for some major changes for its 10th generation. In addition to new powertrain options, it will also mark the return of the hatchback variant. The Civic will be the first model to be built on Honda's new modular platform, which will form the basis for future versions of the automaker's sedans and crossovers.

Perhaps the most exciting news is the addition of a 1.5L VTEC 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. The turbo will likely appear on upper trim levels rather than replacing the base engine. Power figures have not yet been released. Transmission choices will continue to include a 6-speed manual or continuously-variable transmission (CVT).

Enthusiasts may appreciate Honda's decision to finally bring the Civic Type R to American shores. According to Motor Authority, the new hot hatch has been confirmed for a U.S. debut. The car will reportedly be powered by a larger 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo producing 306 hp.

Little is known about the car's interior, but shoppers should expect a continued trend toward available higher end options like front and rear heated leather seats. It's also likely that Honda will ditch the two-tiered center console layout.

In terms of safety, the newest Civic should impress with the likely addition of the Honda Sensing suite of assistance technology, which include collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning and lane keeping.

Green car shoppers should note that the Civic Hybrid and Civic CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) have been discontinued after the 2015 model year. Together with the Accord Hybrid taking a break for the 2016 model year, this means the CR-Z will be the only hybrid in the lineup for a brief time.

Release Date

Official pricing has not yet been announced. However, it's reasonable to expect a price range similar to the 2015 model between $18,290 and $23,090 depending on trim level before adding destination.
The 2016 Honda Civic will go on sale in Fall 2015. Expect the sedan to debut first, followed by the coupe, then the hatchback in 2016. A new Type R model is expected to debut last, no earlier than late 2016.

Pictured: 2016 Honda Civic Concept (Source: Honda)

2018 Dodge Challenger: News, Pricing and Release Date

The latest 2015 Ford Mustang continues to dominate sales in the sport coupe segment, while the newly-redesigned 2016 Chevrolet Camaro continues to steal headlines. That leaves one true 2-door muscle car due for a big redesign: the Dodge Challenger. We've all heard and seen the 707-hp Hellcat version ripping though the gears at local dragstrips and highways via YouTube, but no amount of motor can make up for an aging chassis, and the product planner and engineers at Dodge are fully aware of it.

New 4th Generation Coupe

The answer is coming, albeit in two years. Dodge is hard at work developing a new 4th-gen coupe, and since it's still a ways away, no concrete information has officially been confirmed. What we do know is that the new Challenger will debut in July of 2018 and will feature a host of new styling cues on both the interior and exterior of the model. And yes, SRT variants will be available, possibly as soon as 10 - 12 months after the initial release.
And even more intriguing is the possible resurrection of the Barracuda nameplate.

Engine

In terms of engine combos, no credible information has been announced. But we can wish for a Ferrari-inspired 6-cylinder mill with at least 350 horsepower. That said, Dodge will have to really work hard at getting the engine to perform with low-grade 87-Octane fuel. The current model years of the Mustang, Camaro and Challenger all function admirably with the lower octane fuel, but the higher compression ratios needed to improve response and torque might necessitate either revised fuel mapping and/or a higher-octane fuel requirement.

Weight Reduction

A strict diet might also need to be employed, as the the Challenger tips the scales at a lofty 3,834 pounds--308 pounds more than the Mustang and 115 pounds more than the 2015 Camaro. Look for more aluminum and maybe even carbon fiber for the 2018 Challenger. Cadillac and Ford are already employing the materials to allow for big weight reductions in some of their current and future models like the CT6 sedan and F-150, respectively.

Pricing

Pricing should check in right around $28,595 for the base model while higher-horsepower variants like the Hellcat (if they choose to continue with it) will probably fall right under $65k.

Release Date

Look for the the 2018 Dodge Challenger to hit dealer lots on or around July of 2018.

Pictured: 2018 Dodge Challenger (Source: Dodge)

2016 Dodge Charger: Key Updates, Pricing, Release Date

Overview

The Dodge Charger will get minor updates for the 2016 model year. The most notable changes will be on the red-hot Hellcat variant thanks to a promise of increased production for the coming year.
Shoppers looking for the SRT Hellcat have undoubtedly faced some drama in 2015. Fiat Chrysler constantly struggled to keep up with demand, first putting a halt to orders, then canceling unfulfilled orders in an announcement in July. Things are changing for 2016, however, with the automaker doubling Hellcat production, according to Automotive News. Dealers will get two allocations in August and next February based on average on-lot turnaround time.

Customers who had orders canceled are being offered discounted pricing on the 2016 model. According to a recent bulletin issued to dealers, jilted customers are being offered a one-time $4,000 certificate that can be used toward a 2016 Hellcat Charger.

Powertrains remain unchanged, with SXT models coming with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 292 hp. The R/T will continue to get a more powerful 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 370 hp, while R/T Scat Pack and SRT 392 models will get a larger 6.4-liter HEMI V8 making 485 hp. Finally, the range-topping SRT Hellcat will continue to get a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 making 707 hp- the most powerful engine offered in a production muscle car.

Details on packages and interior options remains limited, but Dodge has announced that Hellcat models will now come with "ultra-premium" Laguna leather, Uconnect with navigation, and HD radio. Traditionalists may appreciate the return of Plum Crazy as a paint option (pictured below). The color was originally offered in 1970 and is considered the signature color for the famed Mopar brand. Expect further details to become available closer to launch.

Pricing & Release Date

Official pricing has been released. Nearly all non-SRT models will be carryover over unchanged, with the most affordable version continuing to be the Charger SE at $27,995 before a $995 destination charge. The Challenger R/T is getting a modest $100 increase to $33,695.

The more dramatic changes are with the SRT models. The 2016 Charger SRT Hellcat will now start at $65,945, a $3,650 increase over last year's model. Similarly, the less-expensive SRT 392 is getting a $3,000 increase to $50,995. Both prices exclude destination and a $1,700 Gas Guzzler Tax.

The 2016 Dodge Charger is expected to arrive later this year. Its next redesign has reportedly been pushed back to 2019 or later. Please check back for the latest release info.

Pictured: 2015 Dodge Charger, 2016 Dodge Challenger and Charger in Plum Crazy (Source: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles)

2017 Ford GT: Overview, Pricing & Release Date

The 2017 Ford GT revives a legendary nameplate with cutting-edge technology for a true enthusiast supercar.

Overview

Ford surprised competitors and industry insiders with the debut of the 2017 Ford GT at last month's North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The GT is a new supercar that resurrects the legendary nameplate made famous by the GT40 racecars that placed 1-2-3 at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The car will be a mid-engine supercar featuring a next-generation 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. The power plant will produce more than 600 horsepower, making it the most powerful production EcoBoost engine ever. The powertrain will include a 7-speed dual-clutch transaxle for quick response.
The GT's exterior will feature substantial use of carbon fiber and aluminum to maximize the vehicle's power-to-weight ratio. The car will make use of active aerodynamics, including a deployable rear spoiler.

The car's interior will feature the latest Ford infotainment technology and an F1-style steering wheel with paddle shifters. The cockpit will feature user-configurable digital displays and have multiple driving modes.
The Ford GT marks a significant shift for the automaker and an expansion of their lineup of Ford Performance vehicles. The lineup will reportedly include more than 12 new performance models by 2020. Additional vehicles within the series include the Focus RS, F-150 Raptor, Shelby GT350, and Shelby GT350R.

Pricing & Release Date

The GT will compete with supercars like the Ferrari 458 Italia, Lamborghini Huracan, and McLaren 650S. Pricing has not yet been announced. However, statements from Ford suggest a possible price close to $400,000, considerably higher than previously thought. We expect official pricing to become available closer to the vehicle's launch in the second half of 2016.

Pictured: 2017 Ford GT (Source: Ford)

2016 Ford Shelby GT 350: Pricing, Specs, Release Date

Racing legend and celebrated Ford tuner Caroll Shelby passed away in 2012, not living quite long enough to see the sixth-generation Ford Mustang. Befitting of Shelby’s legacy, next year Ford will offer the first factory-produced Shelby GT350 model since the 1960s, a track-ready special with its performance upgraded in every conceivable area.

The original GT350, introduced in 1965, was Ford’s proof in concept that the Mustang could be useful for much more than stoplight drag races. The 2016 GT350 comes as the Mustang shifts to a new fully independent rear suspension, and now that the rear wheels are no longer hard-linked together, Ford’s engineers have the perfect chassis for a racer ready to compete with the likes of the BMW M4 and Chevrolet Corvette. Yes, really.

Powertrain and Chassis

The GT350’s shiny new 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 has little in common with the 5.0 used in the Mustang GT. In fact, it instead favors a configuration used with great success by none other than Ferrari, a flat-plane crankshaft design where the crank pins are laid at 180-degree intervals rather than the normal 90 degrees, allowing a firing order that bounces back and forth between the two cylinder banks. The result is ultra-smooth power delivery and an 8,000-plus-rpm redline.
Moreover, official numbers have been released: 526 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. The numbers team up to make the 5.2-liter V8 the most powerful naturally aspirated engine Ford has ever produced.

This will come paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, sending power to the rear wheels through a standard Torsen limited-slip differential, with engine oil, differential, and transmission coolers on the option sheet for those who will see heavy track use. Brembo brakes sized 15.5 inches in the front with six-piston calipers and 15 inches out back with four-piston calipers will provide plenty of fade-free stopping power.

What’s more, Ford has fitted the GT350 with a new MagneRide continuously controlled magnetorheological damping system that can vary shock absorber stiffness at each wheel every 10 milliseconds. The Corvette-style suspension features five driver-selectable modes that also alter traction and stability control response, throttle input, ABS programming and exhaust geometry.

Exterior and Interior

From the fenders forward, the GT350 shares no body panels with the standard Mustang, instead receiving an aluminum front clip with a scrape-the-curb-deep front airdam. The front track has been widened, and exclusive 19x10-inch front and 19x11-inch rear lightweight wheels come wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires with a tread pattern and sidewall exclusive to the GT350. The requisite Shelby racing stripes complete the package.

On the inside, Ford has purposefully left things as spartan as possible, even removing much of the chrome brightwork that might bring glare at the track. Deeply bolstered Recaro buckets and a flat-bottomed steering wheel are exclusive touches, and if you do want a bit more in the way of creature comforts, an optional Tech Package adds Sync infotainment, power seats with leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and a premium Shaker audio system.

Pricing and Release Date

The 2016 Ford Shelby GT350 will be available for purchase directly from Ford dealers around September 2015. Pricing will start at an MSRP of $49,995 including a $1,300 gas guzzler tax and $900 destination charge.

Following in calendar-year 2016, Ford will also release a new factory Shelby GT500, which once again will be more about extreme raw power than fancy track tech. Pick your poison; every new Mustang is more rewarding than ever.

  

Pictured: 2016 Ford Shelby GT 350 (Source: Ford)

2017 Audi Sport Quattro: News, Pricing and Release Date

 

The Audi Sport Quattro is an all-new model likely to become the brand's next flagship vehicle.

The car will go head-to-head with the larger BMW M4, Cadillac CTS-V and Jaguar F-Type.

Based on what we know about the Sport Quattro Concept (pictured), the car will be a plug-in hybrid and pack the latest technology featured in the brand's motorsports offerings.

In terms of horsepower, the new Sport Quattro is rumored to feature some impressive numbers. Under the hood, a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 will reportedly produce up to 560 hp and be coupled to a 140 hp electric motor. The car will likely come with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The car is expected to be built in Germany in limited numbers with a starting price of approximately $150,000. Stay tuned for the latest release info.

 

Pictured: 2017 Audi Sport Quattro (Source: Audi)