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Blinker fluid :

OK...talking about Buicks is NOT a random thought. Get that straight. There are plenty of Buick threads in the Buick category for that. (Channeling my inner oceanblue) Secondly, there is a rarer Chryco cloud car right beside that Buick. I think its far more interesting to talk about THAT car. Aight?! Thirdly...those cars were found in Quebec. I think we should just talk about Quebec. We could talk about how awesome Quebec is... Dont mind me. Just thinking out loud. Just a huge random thought I had... (at least Im getting with the program. I aint talking about Buicks in a random thought thread...)

While I’ve posted about Dodge Chargers quite a bit, I’ve never reviewed one. I once reviewed a Chrysler 300 because I rented one for a day for an abnormally low price. I’ve had Chargers as rentals. The last rented Charger featured the current roofline, but had the last bulbous Ram-like grille. Just recently, I had drove a 2020 Charger for 6 days via an upgrade. I was supposed to get a Hyundai Elantra (or similar). They didn’t have intermediates, so I was directed to the full-size aisle. The Dodge Charger is often one step up from full-sizes in rental fleets. So I asked the Cuban gentleman working on the lot if I could have the one Charger in the full-size row and he told me to help myself! With the bags already in the trunk, an approaching elderly couple was eyeing it. Get out of here ... take one of the Altimas or Camrys. The car was white with a black leather interior. I was not looking forward to leather seats in a hot climate, but the A/C was very effective in quickly cooling down the interior. It had the base 3.6 L Pentastar V6 making 292 horses, an 8 speed Torqueflite automatic transmission, and rear wheel drive. It also had a more compact shift lever I’ve not seen before. I’ve come to like the Dodge Charger more and more. At first, I didn’t like the new, more horizontal grille because it was shared with less expensive Dodge products. Now, I think it works well, especially with the adjacent headlamps. Similarly, I like this last thinner and curved rear light assembly that seems to show some “camber.” As you drive off, the initial feel at low speeds may seem floaty and overassisted. I’m comparing this to my car, in that GM W-bodies with hydraulic power steering require more effort in parking lots and at slow speeds. However, the Charger’s apparent speed sensitive electric power steering is actually convenient and it’s great at highway speeds, where maneuvers are agile yet still communicative. Tire thum and wind noise are also minimal, as is engine noise under normal throttle and particularly when on the interstate. The Pentastar V6 moves this 4,000 pound car well in all speed ranges. The 8 speed automatic transmission changes gears smoothly and quietly. Beyond the 1-2 and 2-3 shifts, the subsequent ones are almost imperceptible. As for the Charger interior, the cabin features a nice cabin environment. I really liked the articulation of the bucket seats, meaning they’re nice to look at. The bolsters are comfortably shaped, the lumbar area feels right, and the front headrests sort of slot in as opposed to popping up way above. The same goes for the rear seats. The headrests are integral. With the rake of the C-pillar and the integral headrests, visibility is good and a combination of turning one’s head and using the mirrors makes lane changes easy. (The last-gen Impala, albeit with a similar roofline, had marginal rear visibility because of its thicker pillar and more obtrusive rear headrests.) The Charger also has a wide stance and feels very stable. In my car, I can reach and open the passenger door manually. In the Charger, I could not. The dashboard is nicely shaped, with an integral infotainment center that is housed under the cowl. This looks more appealing than the “laptop left open” look now often seen in domestic and import vehicles. The controls for the audio and climate control systems are logically laid out and easy to use. The steering wheel control buttons are sensibly sized, with information functions to the left and cruise control settings to the right. Once a person gets used to them, they are easy to toggle through and show a lot of useful information. The main instrument panel dials have orange accents but are principally white. (That’s a good thing because I never cared for Pontiac’s orange illumination phase.) The compact shifter, instead of a gate, is nice to the touch and the shifter itself lights up with which gear it’s in. The are two cup holders, a big bin In the console, and air vents and USB ports at the rear of the console for rear seat passengers. The air conditioning vents up front are nicely positioned and distribute conditioned air effectively. While it all sounds good, there are a few demerits. Compared to the version prior to this last refresh, the cluster between the two main IP gauges is less user friendly in some ways. The transmission gear display is stacked right atop the fuel gauge, almost running into each other. It used to be that round analog gauges were inset at the bottom of the larger speedo and tach and that freed up that central square info area. On the plus side, right below the D indicator is the number of the gear you are in. Now that’s cool! Another oversight is that, unless I missed something in the settings, the clock is not displayed unless the infotainment system is on. However, the outside temperature is always displayed in the main instrument cluster and, when turned on, in the infotainment screen as well. Additionally, the digital clock display is smallish. Even an old fashioned chronometer would be nice, as long as the time is continuously displayed somewhere. The biggest negative is the lack of a remote fuel door release latch. If the base Hyundai Accent has an interior fuel release door, so should a Dodge Charger ... no “ifs, ors, ands, or buts” about it. Previous Chargers had the release in the driver’s door, near the map pocket slots. Initially, I thought I had missed it. As I walked outside the car, I casually pushed on the fuel door and it opened. Surprise. There are a few more things to mention about the driving experience. While the base 3.6 L V6 moves the car well, if one is already at highway speeds and wants to pass, flooring the gas pedal causes to RPMs to spool highly and quickly and, then, with a slight lag, the car moves quickly to the task. One past review over the years somewhere complained the car is too quiet. I think that’s a plus, especially in the more conventional and/or luxury oriented base models. While the transmission works well, between 55 mph and 65 mph, I noticed that the gear indicator between the main IP dials showed that it hunted for a gear at times. One would prefer to be in gear 8 at those speeds but, sometimes, it stayed in 7 until it either sensed more speed or that that speed would be held. Part of it is that an electronic chip is doing the thinking. With the talk of highway speeds and gears comes a discussion of gas mileage. The car gets commendable gas mileage, more so for mixed highway-urban than city driving. On a pure highway jaunt, the mileage is excellent. In the 8th gear and at about 65 mph, the V6 spins at a very low 1,400 rpm. In one point to point - pancake flat - cruise control - light traffic - gas station to gas station jaunt of over 100 miles, I got about 35 mpg. If old Impalas with 3400 V6s and 4 speed automatics could pull in 33 or 34 mpg on the highway, this is credible. Clearly, the conditions had to have been optimal. Many are wondering what the next Charger will bring. The current one has so many good features and aspects, and is well liked. I suspect the next one will be marginally smaller, lighter, and more nimble. I hope they fix some of the readouts that are fussy, cramped, and/or not shown. And that, irrespective of the tight capless fuel system, an interior fuel door release returns. And, true to its muscular and imposing Charger stance, please keep the infotainment system under the cowl rather than the “laptop left open” style that looks fragile and is not appealing. The best thing about the 2020 Dodge Charger is its mixing of the best of old school greatness we miss and the currents norms in automotive technology. Not only that, rear wheel drive makes the car feel more balanced and planted. The driving experience is commanding, comfortable, and inspires confidence. I wanted to take the car home with me.

Hey, I might miss A&F. Granted, I stopped fitting in their clothes back in the late 90s..... ?

@oldshurst442 Hey, I know Quebec is definitely awesome. What might NOT be awesome is being in some redneck lumber town way north and east of Quebec City where they don't like Anglophones. I've heard they might look at you much as if you were walking into an unknown town like you'd see in one of those old Western movies. - - - - - Side note: I just called Culver's. They are not participating in National Custard Day. Turds. Maybe it was the FL locations. Thought I'd give you guys the heads up. The flavor of the day (varies by store), however, is Chocolate Oreo Volcano. Let the lava flow!

LeSabre. Without checking.... I believe the year is '70.

It is no secret that Ram wanted to give the Ford F-150 Raptor a challenge. Look back to TRX concept from 2016 with its off-road suspension and a de-tuned version of the supercharged 6.2L Hellcat V8. Fast-forward to today and Ram has introduced a production version of the TRX and let's just say they took it to the extreme. No De-Tuned Hellcat! Open the hood of the Ram 1500 TRX and you'll find the 6.2L Hellcat V8 producing 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. 0-60 mph takes a mouth-dropping 4.5 seconds and you'll be past the quarter mile in 12.9 seconds with an exit speed of 108 mph. Sure it isn't the full 707 horsepower, but Ram engineer's had to make some concessions for the TRX's off-road capability. For example, a high-mounted air induction system allows the TRX to ford a 32-inch body of water, but also requires more exhaust pipe to allow for easier breathing. Other modifications for the V8 include a new oil pan; the alternator being raised up, and a set of heavy duty filters. Power is routed to an eight-speed automatic and a four-wheel drive system. Ram employs a a new BorgWarner 48-13 transfer case to handle all of the performance from the Hellcat engine. A locking rear differential completes the four-wheel drive system. Not Your Normal 1500's Frame or Suspension Ram says the 1500 TRX's frame is 75 percent different from the standard 1500. The differences include thicker high-strength steel, boxed side rails, and certain parts being hydroformed. All of the changes are claimed to hold up better to high impacts such as landing from a jump than competitors (ahem Ford Raptor). A set of Bilstein Black Hawk e2 adaptive shocks with nitrogen-charged remote reservoirs handle damping duty. They can automatically adjust depending on the terrain, but the driver will able to control them via a set of settings. The front suspension features forge aluminum upper and lower control arms, while the five-link rear suspension has a new design to make space for a Dana 60 axle. A set of Goodyear Wrangler Territory 325/65R18 All-Terrain 35-inch tires with 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels provide the traction. Not Your Father's Ram Its clear that Ram allowed its designers to go mad with the TRX's design. There's a massive hood scoop with lighting, mean looking grille surround, composite fender flares, and a set of optional graphics. Move inside and there are some minor alterations such as a console-mounted shifter, drive mode selector being placed where the dial gear selector would be on other Rams, and a heads-up display - a first for any FCA model. So What's the Catch? That would be price which begins at $71,690 with a $1,695 destination charge. For the first year of production, Ram will offer a Launch Edition version with a special anvil gray paint and every option in the book for $90,265. You'll won't be waiting too long as the TRX arrives at dealers in the fourth quarter of this year. Source: Ram Trucks Press Release is on Page 2 All-new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX: Quickest, Fastest and Most Powerful Mass-produced Truck in the World With 702-horsepower 6.2-liter Supercharged HEMI® V-8 Engine 2021 Ram 1500 TRX Engineered to Handle the Most Punishing Conditions With Extreme Capability and to Outperform Every Other Truck 2021 Ram 1500 TRX, the apex predator of the truck world, is engineered to handle the most punishing conditions with extreme capability and durability, significantly outperforming every other truck New frame extensively uses high-strength steel that increases low-torsion attributes to amplify durability and stability Engineered to deliver a new level of truck performance, the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI® V-8 engine sets new benchmarks for power and performance among half-ton pickups: Rated at 702 horsepower, 650 lb.-ft. of torque 0-60 miles per hour (mph) in 4.5 seconds; 0-100 mph in 10.5 seconds Quarter mile in 12.9 seconds at 108 mph Top speed of 118 mph High-torque-capacity TorqueFlite 8HP95 eight-speed automatic transmission delivers quick, crisp gear changes during both normal and performance driving conditions New, innovative dual-path air induction system delivers maximum output and feeds a steady supply of cool, clean air to the engine through the front grille and functional hood scoop Largest air filter in the segment uses dual filter elements and is designed for extreme, dusty environments with four times the dust trapping capacity when compared to the closest competitor Full-time active transfer case features upgraded internals for improved strength, durability All-new, unique suspension system with active damping, inspired by desert off-road racers, incorporates forged aluminum front upper and lower control arms with special attention to caster and camber angles during suspension cycling New independent front suspension system with active damping uses high-strength aluminum to maintain overall strength and durability TRX uses a Dana 60 solid rear axle with a 3.55 ratio featuring full-floating hubs and axle-hop damper for improved traction and axle control on rough surfaces. An electronic locking rear differential is standard for increased performance off-road Designed exclusively for TRX, new front and rear 2.5-inch Bilstein Black Hawk e2 adaptive performance shocks provide fast reaction time, unbeatable damping and improved heat dissipation for traversing harsh terrain at speeds greater than 100 mph Five-link coil suspension is tuned to deliver the best combination of ride, handling and comfort no matter the road surface Wheel travel is greater than 13 inches at all four corners, an increase of more than 40 percent compared to the rest of the Ram 1500 lineup All-new face of Ram includes modern Ram’s head logo and “R-A-M” badge with flow-through lettering Functional hood scoop is responsible for 50 percent of air entering the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 engine while the other 50 percent enters through the grille New integrated composite fender flares add 8 inches of body width and feature all-new steel box outers, creating a striking “hourglass” body New LED clearance lamps are cleverly integrated into the hood scoop and front bumper flares, amplifying the new aesthetic of the truck Full LED Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) includes twin bi-functional projector headlamps, fog lamps and taillamps with up to 15 degrees of direction control with steering input Most spacious interior in the segment offers new, authentic premium materials, colors and textures, including hand-wrapped leather instrument panels for unexpected luxury throughout All-new 2021 Ram TRX features three interior options, including premium cloth and vinyl, premium wrapped leather and suede, or premium wrapped leather and suede with available red and carbon fiber accents New flat-bottom steering wheel offers enhanced hand grips wrapped in leather with optional suede and carbon fiber accents. New aluminum paddle shifters stretch above and below the steering wheel spokes Reimagined center console with maximum storage includes a new performance-oriented floor shifter, wireless charging dock and five USBs, including Type A and C ports Custom specifications plate on the console lid lists which engine is under the hood, the type of supercharger Ram TRX uses, boost output, horsepower and the vehicle-specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Ram TRX-specific transfer case switches are integrated into the dashboard along with Drive Mode selector and Launch Control Uconnect 4C NAV 12-inch touchscreen is standard equipment and includes SiriusXM 360L with Personalized Stations Powered by Pandora, which offers a custom listening experience through a 900-watt, 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system All-new Head-up Display unit makes its FCA vehicle debut and can show up to five different content areas at once TRX touts the first FCA application of Drive Modes and Off-Road Pages with the Uconnect 4C NAV 12-inch touchscreen New Baja drive mode calibrates four-wheel-drive and steering systems, stability control, paddle shifters and suspension for ultimate desert performance, delivering maximum capability on undulating, loose surfaces Available digital rearview mirror replaces the traditional rearview mirror with a 9.2-inch-wide LCD monitor Trailer Reverse Steer Control is an available standalone option on Ram TRX and uses a dial to point the trailer in the desired direction while the system controls the steering wheel More than 100 active and passive safety and security features, including ParkView rear backup camera with dynamic grid lines, electronic stability control (ESC) with electronic roll mitigation and six air bags. Available features include Blind-spot Monitoring, adaptive cruise control, Ready Alert Braking and Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning-Plus, available All-new 18-by-9-inch aluminum wheels are available in both standard and a beadlock-capable option Goodyear Wrangler Territory 325/65/R18 All-Terrain 35-inch tires, developed exclusively for Ram TRX, achieve unmatched levels of wear resistance, traction and reduced road noise Ram TRX offers the largest front brakes in the segment at 15 inches Ram TRX has a maximum payload of 1,310 pounds and maximum trailer tow of 8,100 pounds Ram TRX features a 2-inch ride height increase over Ram 1500, enabling 11.8 inches of ground clearance and capability of up to 32 inches of water fording All-new 2021 Ram TRX underwent rigorous testing in extreme environments across the continental United States to handle the most punishing conditions with extreme confidence, capability and durability August 17, 2020 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The all-new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX is the apex predator of the truck world and cements Ram Truck as North America’s off-road truck leader. Ram TRX expands the light-duty lineup and sets new benchmarks for power and performance among half-ton pickup trucks with the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI® V-8 engine. “The all-new 2021 Ram TRX sets the benchmark for extreme performance pickup trucks and solidifies Ram Truck’s position as the off-road truck leader,” said Mike Koval, Head of Ram Brand, FCA - North America. “Ram has a strong history of high-performance trucks and TRX adds to that while expanding the light-duty lineup with the segment’s best combination of performance, capability, luxury and technology.” Rated at 702 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque, the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 engine powers the Ram TRX to a top speed of 118 mph. Combined with a high-torque-capacity TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, the Ram TRX delivers a new level of performance: 0-60 miles per hour (mph) in 4.5 seconds and the quarter mile in 12.9 seconds at 108 mph. A proven and reliable high-performance engine, the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 engine delivers top output for extended driving sessions without degradation in performance. The 2021 Ram TRX benefits from up to 32 inches of water fording, up to 8,100 pounds towing and a maximum payload capacity of 1,310 pounds. New aesthetic design pairs chiseled form with extreme function The all-new 2021 Ram TRX features an aggressive stance and an impossibly wide, muscular body wrapped over the top of it. Like a mixed martial arts fighter in a tailored tuxedo, the Ram TRX makes an impactful visual statement with an acute “hourglass” body design that features composite flares and fender wells that have been stretched to cover aggressive 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory 325/65/R18 All-Terrain tires. Ram TRX is 8 inches wider when compared to the rest of the Ram 1500 lineup, and the composite flares help to compensate for a 6-inch increase in track width. Normally, Ram 1500 features a wheel that is 8 inches wide, but the TRX design team had to accommodate a wheel that is 9 inches wide. The front axle was shifted 20 millimeters forward to accommodate the 35-inch Goodyear Territory All-Terrain tires that were designed exclusively for TRX. The 35-inch tires are available with 18-inch beadlock-ready wheels with accent color-matched rings. LED clearance marker lights flank the front bumper, creating a menacing light signature that further sets TRX apart from anything on the road – day or night. A new, aluminum hood features bright LED clearance lights that are integrated in the hood scoop. The hood scoop is responsible for 50 percent of air entering the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 engine while the other 50 percent enters through the grille. Design elements, like the functional hood scoop, are complemented by secondary details, such as the functional air curtain just outboard of the headlamps, relieving high pressure zones at the front corners and allowing air to pass through the fenders. A unique R-A-M badge, front grille, hood, skid plates and steel bumpers help the TRX meet extreme functional objectives. The R-A-M badge is bigger when compared to the rest of the Ram 1500 lineup and features a new “flow-through” design that assists with airflow. All-black premium LED headlamps, including twin bi-functional projector headlamps, are standard. TRX buyers can choose an optional full-length rock rail for added body/sill protection or traditional off-road powder-coated aluminum running boards. Optional body-side and hood graphics are available as a pair or separately. Ram TRX features new box outers made of steel and are wider than that of a traditional Ram 1500. A bed-mounted spare tire carrier is available in addition to the standard full-size spare tire that sits underneath the bed, between the rear axle and trailer hitch. Premium LED taillamps are standard on TRX and the bezels allow for the Blind-spot Monitoring function to see around the extended box outers. Closing out the rear of the truck, a large R-A-M badge, similar to that seen on Rebel, stretches across the tailgate. Center identification marker lights, like what is seen on Ram Heavy Duty models, are tucked between the tailgate and rear bumper. The new aesthetic is taken to even higher levels of visual impact with oversized tow hooks, found at the front and rear of the truck, and integrated 5-inch dual exhaust ports driving the functional performance objective home. High-performance-inspired interior with authentic premium materials The 2021 Ram TRX combines all-new features, technology and authentic premium materials with extreme performance, class-leading quality, comfort and durability. The interior design team chose premium textures, colors and material, including available hand-wrapped leather instrument panels for unexpected luxury throughout. The all-new 2021 Ram TRX features three interior options, including premium cloth and vinyl, premium wrapped leather and suede, or premium wrapped leather and suede with available red and carbon fiber accents. Based on the Rebel layout, trucks outfitted with a TR Equipment Group will greet occupants with premium cloth and vinyl accents featuring black and Dark Ruby Red surfaces. Opting for the TR1 or TR2 Equipment Group provides an interior based on the Ram 1500 Limited and features an all-black color scheme with leather and suede to give TRX a unique feel. Heated and ventilated premium Natura Plus leather with perforated suede accents cover the front bucket and rear bench seats. The TR1 and TR2 Equipment Groups come standard with medium Greystone stitching and Graphite Metallic accents. The TR2 Equipment Group offers TRX red stitching and carbon fiber accents as an available option. Ram TRX features new front seats with enhanced upper bolster support and embroidered logos. TR1 and TR2 Equipment Groups feature a Modular Lightweight Load-bearing Equipment / Pouch Attachment Ladder System (MOLLE/PALS) on the seatback that enables bags and other equipment to be weaved in place. A new SRT-signature flat-bottom steering wheel, with enhanced hand grips wrapped in leather with optional suede and carbon fiber accents, enables performance driving. New aluminum paddle shifters stretch above and below the steering wheel spokes, allowing the driver to choose the proper gear with their fingertips. A console mounted performance floor shifter, which includes a cast metal main grip wrapped with semi-perforated leather, lends itself to spirited performance driving that TRX was bred for, while maximizing storage. Both the console and paddle shifters mark the debut of each in a Ram truck. The Drive Mode selector has been integrated into the dashboard above the transfer case switches and offers different modes of operation, indicated by a TRX pictogram for select environments: Normal, Wet/Snow, Off-road and Baja. A Launch Control button is easily within reach of the driver, sitting to the right of the transfer case switches, and is standard on TRX. Reinforcing TRX’s performance chops, an all-new Head-up Display unit can show up to five different content areas at once, including Lane Departure, Lane Keep Assist, adaptive cruise control, turn-by-turn navigation, current speed, current gear and speed limit. The Head-up Display is available on the TR2 Equipment Group and is a full-color unit accessible through the 12-inch Uconnect 4C touchscreen. A custom specifications plate on the console lid lists which engine is under the hood, the type of supercharger Ram TRX uses, boost output, horsepower and the vehicle-specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). A new, innovative dual-path induction system enables extreme performance The new 2021 Ram TRX is designed for class-leading, uncompromising performance in the harshest environments. Stratospheric power and performance numbers were achieved in part through a new, innovative dual-path air induction system that ensures the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 engine receives a steady supply of clean, cool air regardless of inbound dirt and debris. The Ram TRX uses two paths to draw in outside air and routes it to a large, 29-liter air box that filters out dirt, sand, debris and water before getting anywhere near the engine. The innovative dual-path system pulls in outside air from a functional scoop in the hood and the upper edge of the grille. Air entering the grille flows to the bottom front of the air box, guided by tailored panels. The hood scoop ducts air to the bottom rear of the air box via ports that seal to the hood when it is closed. An air box support bar is precision-mounted in the engine compartment during vehicle assembly to ensure the hood intake seals to the air box ducts to prevent engine-heated air from entering the system. Directing incoming air to the bottom of the air box helps dirt and water settle out before the air reaches the filter elements, ensuring that the Ram TRX continues to perform in the most grueling environments. A one-way drain in the bottom of the air box evacuates water even when the vehicle is moving. Intake air is drawn upward from the box through twin, heavy-duty air filters that provide 198.4 square inches of filter surface area, four times the dust trapping capacity when compared to the closest competitor, to remove any residual dust or sand before the air is ducted. Unfolded, the filter surface medium covers 13.3 square feet. The entire Ram TRX intake system is engineered to minimize power-robbing air restrictions while ensuring only clean, cool air reaches the engine. Industry-standard testing shows that the Ram TRX far exceeds any competitor in the amount of time it can ingest dirty air and debris before performance is diminished. The Ram TRX’s air box is mounted at the top of the engine, making it easy to access should the owner choose to field-clean the high-performance filter elements. From modern muscle cars to high-performance SUVs, the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 has earned a reputation as a potent, reliable power source that delivers head-turning power when ordered by the driver’s right foot and is also a smooth, efficient power plant at cruising speeds. To best match gear selection and shift points to the driver’s demands, the robust TorqueFlite 8HP95 eight-speed automatic transmission monitors inputs, such as engine torque gradients, throttle kick-down, longitudinal and lateral acceleration, detection of friction, downshifts and road grade. This versatile, well-developed, high-torque-capacity, eight-speed transmission delivers quick acceleration and precise, crisp, quick gear changes, enhancing ride quality to luxury car levels with consistent performance and drivability. Launch Control is standard with the 2021 Ram TRX and manages tire slip while launching the vehicle to give the driver consistent straight-line acceleration. Wheel speed sensors watch for driveline-damaging wheel hop at launch and, in milliseconds, provide inputs to the powertrain control module to modify the engine torque to regain full grip. The Ram TRX is also equipped with Jump Detection, which uses wheel-speed and ride-height sensors and accelerometers at each corner to identify when the vehicle is airborne and acts to prevent driveline-damaging power spikes. Acting in milliseconds, Jump Detection modifies engine speed and torque, gear selection, transfer case torque split, damping rates and other powertrain and suspension components through the landing to deliver optimum performance. Dynamic drive modes The 2021 Ram TRX uses performance-tuned software to pre-configure and distinguish five dynamic modes – Auto, Sport, Tow, Snow and Custom – enabling drivers to choose a vehicle setting that ideally meets their requirements and ambient conditions. The drive modes separately control the four-wheel-drive system, throttle response, transmission, paddle shifters, suspension and the electric power steering. All modes use active slip control that prevents binding and excessive slip from front to rear. Custom mode allows the driver to personalize the vehicle’s performance with a selectable driving experience, offering a multitude of vehicle system combinations. Separately, the Ram TRX features three dynamic off-road modes – Mud/Sand, Rock and Baja – enabling drivers to choose a setting that best fits the terrain around them. Like the on-road modes, the off-road drive modes control several systems, including the four-wheel-drive system, throttle response, transmission, paddle shifters, suspension and steering. Engineered to handle the most punishing conditions with extreme capability Designed bolt by bolt to significantly outperform every other truck, the 2021 Ram TRX has been rigorously tested to handle the most punishing conditions with extreme capability and durability. The 2021 Ram TRX’s frame is composed of thicker, optimally shaped, strategically placed high-strength steel that uses low-torsion attributes to increase durability and stability. Sections of the frame are hydroformed for dimensional accuracy, reducing the need for welding, and the side rails are fully boxed. The front rails use high-strength steel and hydroformed sections to set a strong foundation to better handle the front suspension load. Galvanized frame components provide improved corrosion protection. The Ram TRX boasts a ground clearance of 11.8 inches due in part to a 2-inch ride height increase when compared with the rest of the 1500 lineup, along with 35-inch tires. This combination enables TRX to clear surface obstacles easily and at high speeds. To protect critical components, including the front axle, transfer case, transmission pan and fuel tank, TRX employs five skid plates. A separate skid plate sits at the bottom of the front fascia, mitigating potential damage, and doubles as a belly pan. Heavy-duty gauge steel rock sliders are an available option. The use of lightweight, high-strength aluminum closures, including the doors, hood and tailgate, help reduce weight and boost fuel economy. Ram TRX also uses aluminum engine mounts, front axle center section, front suspension and transmission cross-members, front upper and lower control arms, front skid plate, transmission skid plate and steering system gear. An all-new independent front suspension system with active damping uses high-strength aluminum to maintain overall strength and durability. The all-new independent front suspension system includes new front upper and lower control arms made of forged aluminum with special attention paid to the caster and camber angles during suspension cycling. The new, longer, substantially sized front upper and lower control arms are constructed of 80-ksi high-strength steel and designed with a focus on additional wheel travel and axle track width. This new suspension system features upgraded components to provide more performance and improved endurance. Out back, the Ram TRX’s rear suspension had to clear packaging barriers and the engineering team took that into consideration with this unique application. The result is an innovative and durable solution that produces greater wheel travel without reducing cargo area in the bed. The 2021 Ram TRX uses an all-new rear suspension system with active damping and an exclusive five-link coil system for incredible ride characteristics and durability. The frame’s hard points for the five-link suspension system differ when compared to a standard-issue Ram 1500 and allow the Dana 60 rear axle to travel up to 13 inches. Overall, rear-wheel travel is increased to more than 13 inches from the standard 9 inches, or more than 40 percent when compared to the rest of the Ram 1500 lineup. The 2021 Ram TRX uses the proven five-link coil suspension configuration and provides better articulation over obstacles than a leaf-spring system. This suspension design reduces friction in the spring system and weighs significantly less than a comparable leaf spring system. At 600 millimeters in length, the robust rear springs are the largest ever applied on a non-commercial production vehicle. The robust coil springs are more than up to the task of handling a maximum payload of 1,310 pounds and towing capability of 8,100 pounds. New 2.5-inch Bilstein Black Hawk e2 adaptive performance shocks use precision-machined, single-piece construction comprised of rigid aluminum to reduce and dissipate heat and continuously adjust damping forces for optimal body control and terrain isolation. The adaptive performance shocks feature robust corrosion protection with a durable finish and directional-machined cooling fins aligned with air flow for more effective cooling. Dual Electronic Proportional Valves continuously adjust damping forces for precise, independent control of compression and rebound damping. A nitrogen-charged remote reservoir uses a hot-formed, zero-leak tube closure to ensure maximum durability during extreme on- and off-road events. A pressure-activated Triple Rod seal has been field-tested for long-lasting durability against contamination and leaks. Ram TRX uses stainless steel braided high-pressure hose to combat corrosion and abrasion while being able to resist up to 5,800 PSI. A high-strength, lightweight rock shield defends the piston rod against incoming rubble with a custom molded escape path for debris. The Bilstein Black Hawk e2 adaptive performance shocks have been tuned to demonstrate optimum balance between on-road handling and class-leading off-road capability. Ride comfort, body roll control and handling are significantly improved with the Ram-proprietary Active Terrain Dynamics suspension management system, new shock tuning, hard points and body mount strategy. In addition to a standard urethane jounce bumper, the internals of the Bilstein adaptive performance shock feature a Jounce Cut Off to create three zones for progressive bottom-out control during extreme compression events. All modes can reach peak compression damping for the most extreme events. The 2021 Ram TRX is a high-performance pickup truck built to handle the most punishing conditions with extreme capability and durability. To clear the elevated benchmarks and performance figures that TRX presents, a Dana 60 rear axle with full floating axle shafts is standard equipment and handles the increased torque output, rear electronic locking differential and 35-inch tires. The Dana 60 rear axle uses an axle hop damper that enables improved traction and axle control on rough surfaces. A new rear axle center section provides balanced performance and a locking differential for increased off-road performance. The Ram TRX is equipped with a new BorgWarner 48-13 full-time active transfer case that enables passage through any off-road obstruction or weather condition. This modified transfer case features upgraded internals for improved strength and durability. Ram TRX features a low range of 2.64:1 for rock crawling and can be flat-towed while in neutral. Off road, the 2021 Ram TRX will race to 100 mph with ease, and the segment’s largest brakes bring the TRX to a composed halt. Ram TRX relies on a four-wheel disc brake system and a hydraulic compensation unit to enhance brake pedal feel and performance during emergency maneuvers. Up front are two-piston monoblock calipers clamping down on 15-inch inverted hat (outboard venting) rotors for improved cooling. The rear uses single piston calipers with 15-inch rotors to provide incredible stopping power. An electronic parking brake holds the truck steady when applied and is standard. For the 2021 Ram TRX, engineers found that to maximize capability, it would call for a 35-inch tire. Developed exclusively for the Ram TRX, 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory All-Terrain 325/65R/18 tires, featuring an aggressive tread and sidewall with D-load rating, are assigned the task. There are two different wheel designs that are available on TRX, including an 18-by-9-inch optional beadlock-ready wheel straight from the factory. An approach angle of 30.2 degrees, breakover angle of 21.9 degrees, departure angle of 23.5 degrees and a ground clearance of 11.8 inches allow the Ram TRX to go anywhere. Most technologically advanced pickup ever loaded with innovative, customizable features Designed to be the most technologically advanced pickup ever, the new 2021 Ram TRX is loaded with an array of innovative features combined with the award-winning fourth-generation Uconnect system that offers convenience and connected services, keeping Ram truck customers engaged and informed all while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road or desert path ahead. The 2021 Ram TRX interior’s high-tech centerpiece, the Uconnect 4C NAV 12-inch fully configurable touchscreen, is standard and allows for even more customization. Other features include SiriusXM with 360L, Personalized Stations Powered by Pandora and personal device integration. The touchscreen can house one application, such as the navigation map, across the entire 12-inch screen or can be divided in half, operating two different applications at once. A multifunction switch bank and the optional Trailer Reverse Steer Control sit below the touchscreen, giving physical control of specific features. Redundant HVAC controls are located on both sides of the display. An audiophile-quality audio system is offered to immerse passengers in the ultimate sound experience, including a class-exclusive 900-watt premium Harman Kardon audio system with 19 speakers and 10-inch subwoofer – the finest and most powerful audio system available in a pickup. Ram TRX uses a 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) cluster that is exclusive to the model and features a lit TRX badge, unique TRX colors and graphics with reconfigurable gauges. The same graphics appear on the 12-inch Uconnect 4C touchscreen, too. This is the first time that Drive Modes and Off-road Performance Pages are displayed on the 12-inch Uconnect 4C screen. Performance Pages Performance Pages give drivers the tools necessary to become familiar with their vehicle’s performance. The app provides access to real-time vehicle performance information, including timers (such as 0-60 mph elapsed time), g-force, gauges and engine performance. This data can be downloaded to a USB stick, allowing for easy sharing of your driving performance. Owners can also download data to the web. The introduction of the Ram TRX marks the first time Performance Pages is available on an FCA vehicle equipped with the Uconnect 4C NAV with 12-inch display. Off-Road Pages Off-Road Pages show ride height, the transfer case’s position, the pitch and roll of the vehicle and accessory gauges. The app is accessible through the 7-inch TFT cluster or Uconnect 4C NAV with 12-inch display. The introduction of the Ram TRX marks the first time Off-Road Pages is available on an FCA vehicle equipped with the Uconnect 4C NAV with 12-inch display. Forward-facing Camera As part of the available 360-degree Surround View Camera system, a forward-facing off-road camera allows obstructions ahead on the trail to be easily seen. The front camera sits under the crossbar that dissects TRX’s grille and can be accessed through the available Off-Road Pages. Digital Rearview Mirror An available digital rearview mirror option replaces the traditional rearview mirror with a 9.2-inch-wide LCD monitor. The digital rearview mirror displays video in real time from a rear-facing camera and can be turned off to revert back to a traditional reflective mirror. More than 100 available advanced safety and security features Safety and security were primary drivers in the development of the new 2021 Ram TRX, which offers more than 100 available active and passive safety and security features. Standard features include ParkView rear backup camera with dynamic grid lines, electronic stability control (ESC) with electronic roll mitigation and six standard air bags. Available features include Blind-spot Monitoring, adaptive cruise control, Ready Alert Braking and Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning-Plus. View full article

Buddy is working on a Buick GS350 coupe, I think it's a '70 (no grille or emblems currently). Has it primered & running well, burns fat tires well. Beater muscle car is the plan.

I randomly thought of Pontiac and the simple beauty of their last family of small block V8 engines. Here's what one looks like from a F-bird Formula 350 that was up for sale. With no A/C, look at the ground beneath and all those spark plugs begging to be changed by any teenager with a shop class under his or her belt. And who can forget the simple, clean, classic dashboards of yesteryear, such as the one in this F-bird Formula 350? So damn glad I got to experience this stuff when it was the order of the day.

Maybe someone is confusing curb weight with GVWR.

oooOOOOoooo; Kraft singles!

I honestly will not miss anything on that list. LOL always ready for the bleeding edge of new stuff.

? Isn't a Model S 195" long and weighs 4900+ lbs??

@oldshurst442 Thank you for the editorial, I knew you would go off on it and this monday of heat, I wanted a good laugh and got it. THANK YOU Agree with the let them be as we have other things to deal with, but of course, random is what we are all about.

For the love of (name your choice of worshipped being)! Could we please just let the millennials be!!! Every generation gets their time when they get to rule. The older geezers had their chance and there comes a time when their time is up. We are at a point when its the millennials turn to rule. Lets be honest. Half of these brands were in dire straights BEFORE millennials had a chance to vote with their purchasing power. Lets be honest. More than half of these products should have NEVER risen to the top anyway... Millennials choosing to avoid these products are just doing the SENSIBLE thing anyway. example: TIFFANY'S. What a BLATANT exercise in human overconsumption, greed and everything shyte about capitalism... (and NO...I aint a commie. But really...which loving wife demands a huge diamond from her husband to show her his love for her?! like I said...that marketing spiel is a BLATANT exercise in human overconsumption, greed and everything shyte about capitalism... ) What a waste of monetary resources and especially shameful what we did in the past regarding humans for shytty material objects (blood diamonds etc...) Lets be honest. Half of those products are old and dated BEFORE millennials had decided to opt out from them. New tech... I mean, even old geezers ceased to buy these products... Example: iPods. Next thing they will tell us is that millennials killed the Video Cassette Recorder. Because VCRs were a thing into the early 2000s... GTFO with that! Lets be honest. Shyte phoquing stores like GAP, Forever 21...Abercrombie and Fitch... yes...even Abercrombie and Fitch... overpriced shytty clothes that catered mostly to fad clothing. In one year, outdated the next. Im surprised Abercrombie and Fitch lasted as long as it did. Stupid Baby Boomers, Gen Xers for keeping them alive actually. Im ashamed of that. KUDOS to the millennials for being smart!!! Jello. Kelloggs cereals, Kraft singles... Why the phoque did we ever eat that in the first phoquing place? Im sick and tired of all this whining about millennials. Makes me ashamed that my gen... are really snowflakey about whining about millennials. Kinda ironic aint it? (That millennials are called the whiny generation...)

@oldshurst442 Who cares about Quebec when there are so many other awesome places to talk about like Seattle and the idiot protestors and city officials. Course the City and Officials might be on par with those in Quebec. I will say that the Buicks flow off the ships from China here in Seattle, onto train cars and get dispersed across this country. ? Wonder if that means I will see the first imported Buick EV here? ?

Well, something to fit David "comfortably", to him, we're talking FEET longer, FEET wider and FEET taller. ? I get what you're saying but something he considers comfortable(which would be more along the Grand Touring-style cars, imo) would certainly be a good amount larger and I can't imagine it being a comparable weight. But, that's just my point of view.

Looks like a 1970 LeSabre. Back then, 3 ventiports were on the B-body, and 4 ventiports were on the C-body (Electra). The middle model (Wildcat) usually didn't have them..

It’s a nice looking Buick! ? Also something that is rare around here, a Plymouth/dodge Breeze......

Even if the Tesla Model S is long in the tooth, and the Model 3's baby Model S inspirational looks are frumpy, I think...I think that both Teslas are waaaaaay better looking than the Volvo. The Volvo is frumpy and stumpy looking. But different than the Model 3. The Model 3 shares the Model S' sleekness. The Volvo is very blobby. BMW 5 Series GTish... KIA Tellurid-ish... A cross between both. (I saw a Telluride today, and although I liked the exterior design of it when it came out, today I thought it was kinda odd lookin') In other words, the Volvo may not be that bad lookin'. Quite handsome I might add, it aint sexy is alls Im sayin'. It looks like an appliance vehicle. And to me, I dont need that in my mid-life crisis age. I need EXCITEMENT! So...Ill pass on the Polestar 2 thank-you very much! The interior is a tad vanilla. But Im sure its very functional, so that to me is a huge plus though. But I wont be reading the review...Im sure it is a fine automobile, but it dont excite me much.

An out of order spotting, dating back to around 2016. I was driving past a farm in Quebec and saw this: What the heck kind of Buick is that? I know that, even with 3 ventiports on each fender, it is NOT a V6. Amazing that, even with the rigorous Quebec winter, this old Buick is in such great shape.

No, that is only available on the Sonata (stay tuned as one is coming in a few weeks) Not really. There are a fair number of adjustments available, including the side bolsters that will allow most drivers to fit. I'm having some trouble with finding the right adjustment for lumbar as my back was hurting after a couple of hours. Very good. Quickly respond whenever I turn the knob for the climate controls. Yes, haven't tried it yet. Originally I would have said the Lexus IS 350 F-Sport I drove a few years back. Then I realized that I forgot about the Giulia (so has most everyone else *cymbal crash*). It feels just as agile when pushed, offers slightly better weighting - Giulia has slightly better feel; and plenty of grip.

BO-RING.

Oregon Coast today. 86 degrees and gorgeous. Pic is from Kyllo's Seafood Restaurant deck in Lincoln City at "D" River, The Shortest River in the World that drains from Devils Lake "D Lake" that I grew up on.

You know your door handle is reversible, right? Or is that a 'during' pic?

its interesting you say that. The CT5 was supposed to provide more room and the front seat is super cramped. maybe if cadillac had put out roomy cars without cue touchscreen issues and timing chain issues in the 2010's they wouldn't be in the situation they are in now. it would also help to not have a bad c pillar design.

slow day for news I see

During the time the house was built, there was a notorious local gang of midget burglars wreaking havoc in Lancaster County. This was done as a precaution.

WTH is the deadbolt so high on the door? Weird.

Story is all over the news, but seems Ford has now stated that the next gen mustang will be out in 2022 as a 2023 model and teased with this image which has similarities to the Mach e and makes one wonder, does this mean that the Mustang is going EV only? Nope, Ford did say they will have Hybrid as well as EV versions and some others. At least everyone is saying the same thing, 2022 will be the all new Mustang, Hybrid, EV and some ICE models which many seem to think will be big V8 versions at the top end of the for sale as mid to lower end will be Hybrid with small generators powering an electric power train and pure EV. ? Wonder what GM's answer will be for the Camaro! https://www.motortrend.com/news/2023-ford-mustang-s650-s550-news/ https://www.topspeed.com/cars/car-news/the-next-generation-ford-mustang-will-arrive-in-2022-as-a-2023-model-ar187656.html https://fordtrend.com/2022-ford-mustang/ https://www.thedrive.com/news/32075/the-next-ford-mustang-could-arrive-in-2022-report America's way to get your Chemical Fix on!