In This Issue...

JUNE 2012:

June 1, 2012: Mini’s JCW Cooper Coupe crosses our path, and makes a good impression. Is it the return of the everyday British sports car? We find out. Sauber takes a saw to one of its old Formula One cars to give fans a look at what’s under the skin, and we have the video. Speaking of F1, the pit fire in Barcelona raises questions about fuel vapors and static electricity, but we wonder if the phenomena goes much deeper than that. The Editor reviews a book about aviation pioneer Glenn Curtiss and comes away impressed with the man behind the machines, and wonders why it has taken this long to hear more about his accomplishments. Speaking of stuff that could fall from the sky, Al wonders aloud about bird poo and what can be done to prevent it from ruining your car’s finish.

MAY 2012:

May 25, 2012: We’re Porsche heavy this week, but not in the way you might think. First we take a look at the Porsche 918 Spyder, of which Porsche has released official “spy photos”. Next, we — or more accurately, Claude Dudouit — blow the doors off the legendary Porsche 917, and for $1,600 you can hang one of the doors on your wall. Keeping to the German theme, we look at a concept bicycle — you read that right — built by the folks at Audi. It even helps you do a wheelie safely, though there’s no quattro model. Nissan introduced its 2013 Altima to the press, and The Editor went to Nashville to take a look. He came back impressed. Finally, Al takes issue with those folks who drive old cop cars and the people who can’t work up the courage to pass them.

May 18, 2012: Al recounts time spent with automotive legend Carroll Shelby, and stories you won’t read   anywhere else. Johnson Controls uses a manufacturing process designed for wood-backed interior panels, and creates a new way to make affordable carbon fiber exterior pieces. Old Spice goes retro-chic with a sand castle DeLorean. Mini’s Countryman stays for a week, redefines the term “crossover” and proves once again that experience and dedication are key to memorable cars. And Al tells all those @#&*! drivers with no manners or concern for anyone but themselves just what #$@*&^ they are, and what he’d like to do with them.

May 11, 2012: With the explosive growth in smartphones and personal electronics, streaming data directly to the car eventually would happen. And now it has with the creation of Clarion’s Smart Access service. The company also launched Next GATE, an in-car controller for Apple’s iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S that works with the Smart Access system. If that isn’t high-tech enough, read about the aerospace engineers who modified a Triumph Speed Triple in order to test components of their suborbital rocket’s propellant pump. It brings a whole new meaning to “Virtual Rider”. Back here on earth, we visited TechShop’s Detroit branch. It’s hands-on heaven, and a great place to work on a project or take a new idea from design to delivery. Next, The Editor — after finally calming down enough to write a cogent, coherent piece free of expletives — sat down to reply to a recent appearance by Bob Lutz on local talk radio. Read the Editor’s reply, and feel free to comment on Lutz’s proposal. Finally, Al is at it again. This time, he wants everyone to ditch the old dial-and-pointer speedometer for a digital version, but some may think that reason for a single-finger salute. See where you come down on the “Digit vs. Digits” debate.

May 4, 2012: Al’s been traveling for the past few weeks, and the fruits of his labor are very apparent this week. He starts off with a look at the 2013 Dodge Dart. Is it a game changer for Chrysler (and the industry) or just a warmed-over Alfa Romeo? Next, Al takes a spin in the new Mercedes-Benz SL550. Chock full of technology, it was good enough to make Al thinks he’s more handsome than Brad Pitt when he’s behind the wheel. Finally, Al wishes the worst possible on drivers who think you should get out of their way. And we do mean worst. Just to make sure it wasn’t all Al all the time, The Editor wrote a review of the Mazda3 i Grand Touring he drove recently. The first vehicle to showcase Skyactive Technology, it is a target on many fronts for every other automaker in the compact segment to try and hit.

ARRIL 2012:

April 27, 2012: The Editor had a tough time with this one. After a week or so of what can only be described as insanity, the word leaked out that DRB-Hicom, which got Lotus when it purchased Malaysian car maker Proton, denied it had made any plans to sell the seminal British sports car maker. Yet KPMG reportedly was retained to find a Chinese buyer for the company. After many late hours scouring the Internet, speaking with friends and former colleagues, tracking down leads and working with the folks at AROnline, he wrote a lengthy piece synopsizing the current situation. You won’t want to miss it. (NOTE: The fluidity of the situation at Lotus has required addendums as things change and become more clear. Please keep returning to this story for updates.) On a brighter note, Jaguar introduced two new boosted engines at China Auto 2012 in Beijing. These modular designs — which include a four-cylinder — produce plenty of horsepower, offer greater fuel efficiency, and — joy of joys — supplement the current 5.0-liter V8. Hyundai’s Accent may be the entry-level vehicle in the Hyundai brand, but is it also the one closest to the heart and soul of the Korean automaker? It just might be. Read what we have to say about the littlest Hyundai sold in America. When you’re finished with that, see what our Al Vinikour has to say about the 2013 Ford Escape. Is it a significant step forward, and will traditional buyers like its new Focus-like styling? You be the judge, but don’t forget to follow along to the Hokey Pokey… really. Speaking of judging, Al takes a walk down memory lane, reminiscing about some of the nameplates that have gone to car heaven. See if you agree with his choices.

April 20, 2012: Late April is the perfect time for Spring cleaning, and what better time to take a look at improving your automotive lifestyle? For example, if your furniture is getting old, why not replace it withSwitchCars.com photo chairs, tables, sofas, etc. designed by Mercedes-Benz, and built by an Italian luxury furniture maker? Or maybe you have a strong hankering for a hot rod and an E-Type Jaguar, but can’t afford both. What do you do? Check out our Lifestyle page for a restomod Series I E-Type that fits the bill. On a more serious note, we speak with the folks from interior supplier Johnson Controls to get an inside look at what changes you can expect in in-car interactivity, and how this is tied to consumer electronics and the technical savvy of the car buyer. Which brings us to a new touch pad device from TRW that brings this technology into more cars, with more functionality. And Al? He takes a look at the new naming convention that replaces vehicle names with letters. Confusing? Yes, but he also thinks it borders on criminally stupid. We wouldn’t expect anything less from Mr. Vinikour.

April 13, 2012: For all you enjoying the warm Spring weather, but wondering which two-wheeler should adorn your garage, we welcome back Scott Bowles, The Virtual Rider, to review the Harley-Davidson Switchback. Read his review for the answer to whether a Harley can be considered “practical”. Impracticality is part of the sport coupe ownership experience, but Hyundai’s Veloster marries edgy styling and a tight package with the practicality of three doors and a hatch. And while this sounds like the title for a British comedy starring Hugh Grant, is it enough to make the Veloster more practical without losing any sportiness? Finally, two from Al Vinikour. First his review of Bryce Hoffman’s book on Ford and how it came through the industry meltdown relatively unscathed. This is followed by his Tirade on seat belt design, and the difficulties poorly designed latches can bring. But there’s a surprise: TRW has just introduced a modification to the standard latch unit that could make Al a happy man… Oh what am I thinking. He’ll never be happy!

April 6, 2012: We're taking the week off to celebrate the Easter holiday. Enjoy the time off, and we'll see you back here Friday the 13th!

MARCH 2012:

March 30, 2012: In Michigan, March has come in like a lamb, but is leaving like a schizophrenic, never certain what temperature it should be. Monday was balmy and perfect for a run down to Detroit’s Hard Rock Café for the announcement of Dodge’s participation in the Global RallyCross Championship. It will run the new Dart, driven by motocross and Supercross legend, Travis Pastrana. The Editor spent a little time with Pastrana, and says he’s not as crazy as you might think. On Tuesday, it was off to Auburn Hills to see what Jeep has cooked up for this year’s Easter Safari in Moab. The clear but crisp (c-o-l-d) weather provided the perfect backdrop for concepts both real and fanciful. Wednesday warmed up again, just in time for Ford to announce the Explorer Sport. Powered by a 350-hp EcoBoost V6, it promises lots of go to go with the show (or is that SHO?). The Rumor Mill returns this week, and asks what’s behind Jost Capito’s fast exit from Ford for VW, who is responsible for the Toyota GT 86/Scion FRS’ handling, whether or not Toyota is watching Lotus’s death march and waiting to strike, and what the Lexus LF-A and Hyundai have in common. The Editor, meanwhile, sits down with friend and former colleague John Clor to discuss oil prices, and asks what can be done to stop this insanity. (A lot, as it turns out.) And Al takes umbrage with drivers who don’t accelerate with alacrity when the light turns green — even the dead ones.

March 23, 2012: Curious about the silver scrap in the picture? It’s the remains of a crushed Mercedes 300 SL replica. One whose makers didn’t have Mercedes' permission to build. Read about what happened when German Customs seized the car as it was heading out of Germany. Had the people responsible for the bogus Mercedes been smart, they could have used OnStar’s new aftermarket FMV unit to report the car stolen, called for roadside assistance, called their lawyers or asked about traffic and weather in the vicinity of the local jail. But their loss may be your gain if your vehicle is compatible with the unit. Read what we have to say about the OnStar FMV, and whether or not it’s right for you. Speaking of technology plusses and minuses, Al gives his opinion about steering wheel controls. Good? Bad? Exasperating? Yes, he says, and more. Finally, you can catch up on your Formula 1 reading in time for this weekend’s Malaysian Grand Prix. Though Peter Wright’s book is now 11 years old, it explains a lot about the technology and work necessary to create a competitive challenger, and why – for many — Formula 1 is no longer fun.

March 16, 2012: This week the Driver’s Seat is getting a workout. First up, Al goes to Vegas to drive the Fiat 500 Abarth. Though diminutive and cute, the Abarth proved to be a hoot to drive, and one of Al’s recent favorites. If that isn’t enough, the on-the-go “Angriest Man in Automotive Journalism” spent time in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. There he evaluated Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. And, while he was at it, Al contemplated why a place that gets as much as 700 inches of snow each year can have smooth, well-maintained roads when his beloved Michigan can’t. Speaking of questions for the ages, The Editor took time out to evaluate Ford’s F-150 EcoBoost. Ford says it has the power of a V8, but the economy of a V6. Find out if this indeed the case, and whether or not this ability has any drawbacks that might kill the deal. The big deal this week was the announcement that Nissan would be the technical partner for the DeltaWing Le Mans project. This begs the question: Why didn’t any American automakers step up to support this wild, innovative program? Finally, we take a look under the hood of the new battery powered Mercedes AMG SLS E-Cell. It’s a supercar that runs on batteries, but is it the answer to a question nobody asked?

March 9, 2012: Switzerland is a country of amazing beauty, delicious chocolate, numbered bank accounts and one hell of a motor show. The latter is surprising since the Swiss don’t like speed… or noise. It’s just not proper. Yet Geneva is a proper motor show, and the first major European show of the season. It’s a great place for automakers to launch new cars early in the new year, or to tease the public with concepts. We put on our walking shoes and take a look at some of the more interesting vehicles on display in the Swiss capital. The words “interesting” and “Switzerland” conjure up another image: a reimagined Jaguar E-Type. Swiss designer Robert Palm is bringing his 2011 Growler concept to life as the Lyonheart K. Engineered and built in England, it is based on Jaguar XKR mechanicals, built from “genuine” materials, and costs more than anyone at TVD will make in a lifetime. We celebrate the birthday of one of the world’s most famous and desire race/road cars: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. Launched just seven years after the end of World War II, the 300 SL helped reestablish Mercedes’ sporting credentials, and boosted interest in the German car maker. Despite all this talk of the world’s timepiece capital, Al finds himself perplexed by the very act of setting the time in the cars he drives. With the explosion of buttons and in-dash technologies, it has gotten much more difficult to perform this simple task. Read how Al deals with this problem, and you’ll understand why his iPad often defaults to German.

March 2, 2012: It’s been a busy week here at TVD. Al is back from driving the new Hyundai Azera, a car The Editor once described as “the best Oldsmobile 98 ever made.” With Olds dead and its customers scattered to the four winds, is that a target worth shooting at, or has Hyundai refocused its sights on a new target? Speaking of new targets, the 1.0-liter EcoBoost from Ford isn’t just for the European Focus and Fiesta. It’s going global. What makes this engine special? Read all about the first three-cylinder engine in Ford history to find out. Not strange enough for you? Then how about a small coupe-like SUV that is also a convertible and pickup? It will debut in Geneva later this month. If rumor is more your style, take a look at a new feature we have called The Rumor Mill. It looks at what’s being said behind the scenes, and gives you a clue as to what’s happening in the industry today. It will appear whenever the gossip gets juicy. After bending two wheels on a monster Michigan pothole, The Editor vented his spleen, and Al took up the cause. Read his tirade on these asphalt aggravations, and then take a listen to a recent podcast Al and Editor Sawyer did with the folks from RoundAbout.

FEBRUARY 2012:

February 24, 2012: Last week we were heavy on tech. This week it’s new vehicles. We start with Al’s review of the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe. It’s had its own Lifestyle Lift, and some heart surgery. Is it a new vehicle or an old warhorse with a bad nip and tuck? Next, Al and Chris review the new Toyota Prius c. This is the smallest Prius ever, and perhaps the most intriguing. Chris takes a look at what makes the Prius c tick while Al (who was there for one of his other outlets — the cad!) tells what it’s like around the streets of Delray Beach, Florida. Speaking of swanky surroundings, Mini and Ilaria Fendi have gotten together to create men’s and women’s bags made from Mini Roadster leftovers. The Editor gets the “Timing Is Everything” award when he goes on TV (again!) to talk about winter driving just as a storm hits Michigan. Finally, Al vents his spleen on interior engineers and designers who make finding, and using, the gearshift a nightmare.

February 17, 2012: Technology is the word this week, from the sublime to the scary fast. First up is a new touchpad technology from TRW Automotive. It uses an affordable multi-graphic rear projection display that shows you more than the numbers that will unlock your car’s doors. Next are affordable Metal Matrix Composite brake rotors. NYU-Poly and REL, Inc. are working on this technology, and suggest it can remove 30 lb. of unsprung weight from the typical mid-size sedan, last the life of the car, and perform better than the cast iron rotors in production today. At TVD, we call that a bargain. Our last technology is a Lola LMP1 prototype outfitted with an electric drivetrain. If that isn’t enough, some of the electrical systems on the vehicle are powered by structural batteries; cells whose chemistry has been integrated into the composites making up the structure of the vehicle. It’s pretty trick stuff. Just don’t expect to see it running at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Back in the real world, The Editor takes the Mazda2 Touring out to see what it’s made of. Is it a sporting economy car or a fraternal twin to the Ford Fiesta that uses the same underpinnings? Finally, Al responds to a reader e-mail, and gives both barrels to drivers who slow down to a crawl before turning. Even more frightening is that Al’s satirical take on what should be done to these miscreants — disemboweling comes to mind — is one of his milder suggestion.

February 10, 2012: It’s a big week at The Virtual Driver. Al spent time in California driving the new 3 Series. Yes, we "hate" him, too. Judging from his words, the new 3 Series is a big step forward from its already excellent predecessor, no matter which engine you choose. This time, however, your choice of motors extends to a four-cylinder with a twin-scroll turbo and its bigger, six-cylinder brother. Next time, Al stays home… In a more serious vein, Al reviews Bill Vlasic’s latest book on the auto industry. This time around, Vlasic takes a look at the decline, fall and rise of Detroit’s automakers, and gives us fascinating insights into why these companies almost collapsed. Meanwhile, The Editor looks into the situation at Suzuki, wondering if the company can survive in the U.S. market in its present state. (It can’t.) With that in mind, he looks at the Suzuki lineup and puts forward a plan for its revival. Sawyer also strips the Chicago Auto Show down to its basics, looking at the newest of the new vehicles and concepts shown in the Windy City. It’s a short, but interesting list. Finally, Al (he was busy this week) looks at into his crystal ball and discovers a time when, unlike his youth, the V8 Nazis keep you from buying a octo-cylindered vehicle.

February 3, 2012: Back from his bout with kidney stone removal The Editor takes us inside the world of VW’s new modular transverse technology. More than just a standardized structural base or set of powertrains, the MQB, as it is called, is a declaration of war by Volkswagen on the competition. It has the potential to slash per unit costs, increase the level of in-vehicle technology affordably, add immense flexibility to the VW Group’s production facilities, and allow it to build more vehicle variations based on a set of common components at a higher profit margin. It’s pretty amazing. While he was convalescing, Sawyer also finished a book on Edsel Ford, the only child of Ford Motor Company’s founder. The 1934 Model 40 Special Roadster Edsel created alongside Ford design chief Bob Gregorie (right) shows the depths of this man’s talents. Little is really known about Edsel, though author Henry Dominguez has done a wonderful job putting together a sympathetic portrait of this forgotten and misunderstood giant. Read the review to find out what a twisted and tragic existence he was forced to lead. Finally, Al gets out on the road to play space invaders, that game where the nicer the car you drive, the more likely it is that people will harm it. He has some sage advice for those who don’t want to play that game.

JANUARY 2012:

January 27, 2012: The Editor had to rush off mid-week to get his two dime-sized kidney stones surgically removed. Before he left to catch his seat on the Pain Train, he wrote a review of the Kia Forte Koup SX, uploaded an infographic about the Nurburgring, and reviewed Beverly Rae Kimes’ history of the early years of the American auto industry. Sawyer found Kia’s Forte Koup to be handsome, reasonably quick and roomy, but wonders if it doesn’t demand too many compromises in a rapidly changing market. As for the Nurburgring map, that comes courtesy of our friends at Car Buzz. Not only does it show you the squiggles and curves of a track affectionately referred to as The Green Hell, it gives interesting facts… like how many people, on average, die at the track when it’s open to the public each year. Life and death struggles also were a part of the early years of the automobile industry in America, and Beverly Rae Kimes does a masterful job of recounting this tale. Speaking of tales, tall and otherwise, Al Vinikour makes an impassioned plea to automakers everywhere for digital speedometers as a way to reduce traffic fines.

January 20, 2012: Solyndra. It’s a name that’s likely to go down in history alongside Enron as a case study of corruption. In the case of Solyndra, however, it was government, not private enterprise, that ignored the warning signs and poured millions of taxpayer dollars into a sinking ship in a vain attempt to jump start the green jobs revolution. Unfortunately, Solyndra wasn’t the only “green jobs” debacle from this administration. The latest is the joint EPA/NHTSA-run plan to increase CAFE standards to 54.5 mpg by 2025. Volubly supported by UAW president Bob King, the mileage standards, it is claimed, will not only cut our dependence on foreign oil, but put money back in car buyers’ pockets and clean the skies. But at what cost? The Editor takes a look at a Center for Automotive Research study that says the cost of this wishful thinking could decimate the UAW, automakers, and put as many as one million people out of work. On a brighter note, Al Vinikour is back, and no longer ready to run people over with a Craftsman tractor. He takes us behind the scenes with perhaps the most famous car spy photographer in the world in his review of Car Spy, then has filthy fun with license plates — just like his Uncle Barney. Finally, we take a quick look at the twin-turbo technology found on four-cylinder S-Class sedans in Europe. Enjoy the weekend and we will see you next Friday.

January 13, 2012: Friday the thirteenth during a full-moon cycle, the worst possible combination. Except that the weather for the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) was unseasonably warm and sunny. After two long (l-o-n-g!) days at the show with “Mr. Tirade” Al Vinikour, The Editor is about to collapse from sore feet and sheer exhaustion. However, before he heads off to rest, we had him sit down and pound out a report on the highlights of the auto show with the long, awkward name. Everyone was there, even Sears, which introduced its new line of Craftsman CTX Series tractors. With traction control, electronic fuel management, electronic deck height adjustment, cupholders and more, it was more sophisticated than the Chinese cars on display at NAIAS shows past. If the Craftsman tractors had one problem, it was that Al wanted desperately to use them as his personal transport during the show’s press days! Speaking of the irrepressible Al, we’ve given him the week off. After long hours ignoring The Editor’s instructions at the show, his latest Tirade was so hot it self-combusted. Better to let him rest than give TVD a NC-17 rating. He’s back next week, tanned, rested and ready — just like Nixon in ’68!

January 6, 2012: When is a crossover not a crossover? When it’s a four-door hatchback with a body kit and all-wheel-drive. It would be easy to slap Suzuki for an overly liberal use of the crossover designation or a cynical marketing ploy, but the SX4 acquits itself well is you remember it’s a compact hatchback, not an off-road athlete. Just watch out for the boring interior. Speaking of boring, The Editor reads a book about a noted engine expert. While that, in itself, might seem boring, the man’s life spanned two World Wars, the introduction of jet propulsion and the development of the Wankel engine. He was there for it all. Unfortunately, this skilled engineer gives us an engineer’s view of his life. Never boring, Al decides to dunk some donuts, but this has nothing to do with sweet, doughy confections.

DECEMBER 2011:

December 30, 2011: We close out the year with an issue sure to raise a few eyebrows. In a Heartbeat host John Clor invites The Editor to Grosse Pointe’s War Memorial to discuss the Chevy Volt. (See if you can guess which member of the TVD staff will be swearing off cookies next year.) Not content to stop there, Chris finds another example where truth and honesty are lacking — energy. Are we running out of domestic energy in the Americas, or just the will to explore for more oil, natural gas and coal? The answer may surprise you. On a lighter note, Federal-Mogul introduces a new lighting and sensor technology that works with the wave of your hand. Speaking of using your hands, Al tells us about “Rubber Arm Randy” and why every driver should learn how to “Stick It!”

December 23, 2011. This time around, Al mistakes a V6 for a V8, and yet gets to keep his auto journalist credentials! (Everyone makes mistakes, especially when the world is whizzing past.) The Editor drives the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8, and it gives him a keen insight into the personality of the brawling company founders, John and Horace Dodge. Al creates a midlife crisis spotter’s guide for your enjoyment, and admits to having fallen into this trap — twice! To make up for this, and his cylinder-counting mistake, we give him a book to review about drag racing. It’s not the fish out of water story you might think as Al has worked with drag racing legend Connie Kalitta in the past. Also, there’s a new HANS Device that’s lighter, smaller and less expensive. Finally, there's a new technology item that boggles the mind. It's not going to make your car faster, more fuel efficient or safer, but it will keep you entertained. Check it out here.

December 16, 2011. It’s nearly Christmas, but there’s still time to get a suitable gift for the gearhead in your life. Check out TVD’s affordable, and practical, gift selections. When money isn’t an object, you can go all-out. Sort of like Juha Kankkunen in the Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible. Buy one and you get the commemorative Breitling watch free. Al’s at it again. This time he’s complaining about bumpers that can’t hack it… and scouring powder. You’ll have to read it to understand the connection. Finally, The Editor went to Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant this week to check out the 2013 Focus Electric. And it caused him to use a word his late mother didn’t like. See what it is and why he feels truth and honesty are the latest casualties in the auto industry’s dance with environmentalists and regulators.

December 9, 2011. Speculation is rife about who will succeed Alan Mulally as Ford’s CEO. We take a look at the contenders. When The Editor’s kidney stones acted up, Al Vinikour stepped in and covered the introduction of the 2013 Lexus GS. He liked it. What he doesn’t like, however, are people who “tap dance” on the brake pedal. Read why. Bentley gives a taste of the sound of the new Continental, and The Editor muses about the death of Maybach. And last, but by no means least, we talk to Britain’s Andy Peace about his modern interpretation of the classic Maserati Tipo 250F Grand Prix racer. It’s nothing less than amazing.

December 2, 2011.

This week, The Editor tours the Udvar-Hazy Center while visiting Virginia, and discovers a place he likes as much, or more, than the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. Yeah, we know… we think he’s weird, too. However, his photos and words show an aviation and space museum well worth the trip. While Chris was out drooling over airplanes, Al Vinikour read a book, and wrote a review. (We know. We didn’t think it was possible, either.) As if that wasn’t enough, Al tells every naysayer, eco-freak and busy body just who gives him the right to drive fast, powerful cars. It’s enough to make even the most impenitent want to go to church. Speaking of church, we pray in the church of the eco-weenies as we test the Chevy Volt. Is it the answer to range anxiety or the perceived “sins” of the internal combustion engine? Or is it just a fascinating addition to the pantheon of alternative propulsion systems?

NOVEMBER 2011:

November 25, 2011. We don’t like staying in the office any longer than we have to, especially around the holidays. That’s why this week’s edition of TVD is earlier than usual — just after midnight EDT on Tuesday, to be exact. Before we bugged out of the office, we made sure the editorial slot was full of goodies. For example, those interested in more performance for their BMW 135i, 335i or X6, or their Cadillac CTS-V can go to the Lifestyle section for a look at performance upgrades Santa wishes he had for his sled. If performance is your game, but you’d rather do it with finesse than brute force, you might be interested in The Editor’s look at what the 2015 Mustang ST and Camaro ZL1 could bring. Power, performance and sophistication? Pinch us! We must be dreaming! Meanwhile, Al takes a look at drivers who think the safety technology on their vehicles will save them from the laws of physics. As he so eloquently puts it… It can’t! But, in typical Vinikour style he’s both funny and sobering at the same time. Let us be the first to wish you and yours Happy Holidays, and suggest that you take the time to enjoy family, friends… and reading through the TVD site. You’ll be glad that you did.

November 18, 2011. We put the emphasis on tech this week with a look at Mercedes’ use of Nanoslide coatings to reduce emission, fuel consumption and friction in engines. If that isn’t enough, The Editor takes a peek behind the curtain to see what Ford has done to improve the abysmal reputation of its MyFord and MyLincoln Touch infotainment systems, and gets inside Cadillac’s CUE. He also drives the Dodge Avenger Heat. It’s not the bloodbath you might expect, especially when you consider just what the folks in Auburn Hills accomplished with limited time and money. Finally, and just in time for winter, Al calmly and politely discusses the broken windshield phenomenon that rages like an epidemic this time each year.

November 11, 2011. Things aren’t always as they seem. Take the Infiniti QX56, for instance. The full-size SUV with the cartoon character face is a Nissan Patrol in the home market. But does that disqualify it as a high-end off-roader? Our Director of Web Development takes a ride, blows a tire, and finds that not all businesses are out to take advantage of misfortune. Al Vinikour, meanwhile, has a suggestion for those drivers who invest more in their audio system than in their car — and want to share the result of their labors with the world. Finally, we discover a product that does what it says, and keeps dirt and grime from sticking to your rims.

November 4, 2011. In its efforts to bring high-end safety equipment to mainstream vehicles, Ford is launching a camera-based lane keeping and alert system on the 2012 Explorer Limited that will be available in the first quarter of next year. Not only does it alert you if you are drowsy or stray out of your lane, it also can help steer the car back into line. We’ve embedded a video that explains it all. Our own Al Vinikour was in New York recently to drive the new Buick Verano. Built off the compact Chevy Cruze platform, it’s not only the smallest Buick in some time, it’s the strong silent type. We’re not sure if the two are related, but soon after Al returned he e-mailed his latest Tirade. In it he complains about rear seat leg room or, more accurately, the lack of same. Finally, we review a book that should be on the shelf of every person with an interest in cars and history. Read about 12 greats in the history of the automobile, many of whom you might never have heard of.

OCTOBER 2011

October 28, 2011. Other than oxygen, the most vital element for the continuation of life on earth is water. Yet the EPA is pushing electrification of the vehicle fleet as an answer to the twin “problems” of climate change and oil use. For skeptics of anthropogenic global warming, like The Editor, this rush to electricity has major pitfalls. One of which is that it uses far more water and greatly increases CO2 output compared to current fuels. On a lighter note, Al Vinikour gets a pain in the neck, and takes a drive in a four-cylinder Mercedes near the Bush family compound in Kennebunkport, Maine. Plus, Mini’s German arm creates a Union Jack sneaker fit for Austin Powers.

October 21, 2011. We have a packed issue this week. Al Vinikour takes a drive out Oregon way, and brings back his report on Hyundai’s Veloster. The Editor, meanwhile, stays near home and drives the Scion iQ around the streets of Detroit. Al and the Editor speak their minds about where designers get their inspiration. And, on a more serious note, the Editor asks if there might be more to the Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S sports car than meets the eye.

Our Apologies to all those who tried, and failed, to post a comment to our opinion piece on Racing's New Realities. There was a glitch, but hard work by our Web Development Director and the fine folks at Squarespace has fixed the problem. In light of the tragic accident that took the life of Indy Car's Dan Wheldon, the Editor has posted his thoughts in the comment section. Please feel free to add your own.

October 14, 2011. Even though he didn’t always listen to him when they were growing up, the Editor takes stock of his brother’s look at the problems facing racing, and asks if there isn’t a better way. (Leave a comment if you wish — a first for us — but be civil.) Kia launches a new Rio 5-door in Texas. Is it another boring penalty box, a game changer or something in-between? We examine this new B-segment competitor, and find ourselves both applauding and scratching our head. Speaking of scratching your head over questionable decisions, Al asks why some power windows go down with just a touch, but don’t come back up the same way. 

October 7, 2011. Former CART Marketing Director William Sawyer takes a stroll down memory lane and a look at the future, and wonders if racing has a future. The Editor drives the Lincoln MKX, and asks if this Lincoln is too close to the Edge. Jeremy Clarkson and the folks from Forza Motorsport produce a game trailer that should be the rallying cry of everyone who likes to drive. We review a book about lost U.S. fighter concepts, and Al comes to the rescue of mutts everywhere.

SEPTEMBER 2011:

September 30, 2011. We welcome our special motorcycling correspondent Scott Bowles back to The Virtual Rider’s seat where he reviews the Harley-Davidson SuperLow. With a seat height lower than a politician’s approval rating, does this bike help reinvigorate the Sportster line? TVD's Editor takes a look at two new safety technologies from GM, and examines the inner workings of the Fiat-Chrysler tie-up. Al Vinikour strikes a more somber note this week, supporting people who erect roadside memorials. And Mercedes-Benz introduces a new fragrance for men who own a Mercedes... or want to smell like they do.

September 23, 2011. Toyota introduces the 2012 Camry. We ask whether it’s enough to bring buyers back into the Toyota fold. Ford offers a fun little flap for the Focus that every car should have. And Al tees off on why colors are colors, until you have to name them.

September 16, 2011. If it’s September of an odd-numbered year, this must be Germany or, more specifically, Frankfurt. This year’s Frankfurt Motor Show had the weird, the wild and the wonderful, but only a few vehicles made it on to the Editor’s list of the truly significant. Except for one. It’s a marketing exercise he rather liked. Switching gears, Al Vinikour tees off on politicians with gusto. See why he thinks they should keep their hands off the auto industry. Finally, the Editor was on local cable access recently with friend and former colleague John Clor to discuss the future of automotive safety, and how it will affect the driving experience.

September 9, 2011. This week, our Web Development Director cleans his car with a product you might not expect. Jaguar introduces its C-X16 concept ahead of its Frankfurt debut. Al Vinikour takes a crossbow to miscreants and left-lane hogs. Dan goes out to drive Hyundai Genesis Coupe, and comes back with an opinion. And Al (with crossbow) and the Editor (wearing the apple) do a podcast.

September 2, 2011. As promised last week, the First Run on the 2012 Beetle is here. It's stands out in what otherwise is a veritable Truck Fest that includes the Editor’s review of the Ram 1500 Tradesman, and Al Vinikour’s First Run on the 2012 Jeep Wrangler. Speaking of Al, he gives Donald Trump a sure-fire investment idea guaranteed not to go flat.

AUGUST 2011:

August 26, 2011. A ferocious rainstorm over Detroit kept the editor circling Cleveland until the plane had to land, refuel and wait out the storm. That means His Crabbiness’ First Run on the 2012 VW Beetle will have to wait until next week. In the meantime, you can check out our Web Development Director’s assessment of Ford’s plans to turn your car into a node on the healthcare highway. It’s a plan with serious implications for both your privacy and driving style. Al Vinikour takes a shot at the voices that talk to him while driving. And smart introduces a new electric bike.

August 19, 2011. Al Vinikour takes a First Run in the new Volvo S60 R-Design, a turbocharged all-wheel-drive sedan from a company better known for safety than performance. Wonder what you can do with Chevy’s new MyLink system? We have a video that takes you on a tour of this new infotainment system. This week we wrap up Chris Sawyer’s look at the Group Lotus vs. Team Lotus drama, and take a look at the company’s new Vice President of Creative Design and Global Marketing. Really. You won’t want to mizz (big clue) it. Finally, Al Vinikour tells us why real men drive with the windows down.

August 12, 2011. Eagle GB gets together with an American doctor to produce a modern interpretation of the iconic Jaguar E-Type. Is Ford’s 3.7-liter V6 engine enough for the F-150 SuperCrew, and does the 2012 Harley-Davidson F-150 push all the right buttons? We revisit the Group Lotus vs. Team Lotus saga once again. Plus, Al Vinikour looks at the crazy things people do while behind the wheel.

August 5, 2011 - Audi introduces a new member of its turbocharged direct-injected engine family chock full of new technology to reduce emissions and fuel consumption. A new two-wheeled hybrid from San Francisco hits the road. We continue our look back at the Group Lotus/Team Lotus battle by reprinting another article Editor Chris Sawyer wrote for the British website AROnline. The Nissan Quest 3.5 LE is in the Driver’s Seat, and Al Vinikour speaks his mind about cell phones and the people who use them while driving.