William Maley

It seems a number of automakers are releasing what they have in store for the New York Auto Show before the show even begins on Wednesday. Case in point is McLaren which has revealed its entrant into the sports car market with the new Sport Series family. The first model in this new family is the 570S. Design-wise, the 570S follows in the footsteps of the 650S and P1 in overall profile. The model does have some design cues that it can call its own such as a somewhat different nose design, concave rear window, and fixed rear wing. Overall size is comparable to a Audi R8 or Porsche 911. Inside is very much the same as its big brothers with the 570S digital instrument cluster, seven-inch touchscreen display, and numerous customization options. Power comes from a twin-turbo 3.8L V8 with 564 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. This goes through a 7-speed SSG dual-clutch gearbox to the rear wheels. Figures are as followed: 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 3.2 seconds 0-200 km/h (0-124 mph): 9.5 seconds Top speed: 204 mph How does the 570S pull off these numbers off? It comes down to weight. McLaren quotes a curb weight of 2,895 pounds. The MonoCell II chassis only tips the scales at 176 pounds. Other oily bits of the 570S include fixed anti-roll bars front and rear and adaptive dampers all around, along with staggered wheels - 19 inches up front and 20 inches in the rear - wrapped in Pirelli PZero Corsa tires. McLaren hasn't announced when the 570S will go on sale, but did say that other models with varying power levels and bodies would be coming as well. Source: McLaren Automotive Press Release is on Page 2 ALL NEW McLAREN 570S COUPE UNVEILED AHEAD OF GLOBAL DEBUT IN NEW YORK Mar 31, 2015 McLaren reveals first model in its Sports Series, the 570S Coupé Brings McLaren exclusivity as well as pioneering, race-driven technologies to a new segment Sports Series joins the Super Series and Ultimate Series to complete the three tier McLaren range being shown together for the first time in New York A classic sports car with mid-engine rear-wheel drive layout and carbon fibre structure ‘Shrinkwrapped’ design includes elegant flying buttresses to optimise aerodynamics and increase downforce M838TE twin turbo V8 engine, featuring 30 percent new components, produces 570PS and 600Nm Class leading power-to-weight ratio of 434PS per tonne gives breathtaking performance; 0-100km/h (62mph) in 3.2s; 0-200km/h (124 mph) in 9.5s Global premiere at the New York International Auto Show on Stand 704, Level 3 at 14.55EST (19.55GMT), Wednesday 1 April 2015 McLaren has completed its three tier model strategy with the global reveal of the first in its Sports Series family: the McLaren 570S Coupé. This pure sports car, with driver optimised layout and electrifying performance, shares its DNA with the McLaren Super Series and Ultimate Series that sit above it in the range hierarchy. The Sports Series introduces McLaren race-derived technologies and design values to a new segment and audience. Like every McLaren, the performance of the 570S Coupé is breathtaking. It combines, as its names suggests, a power output of 570PS (562bhp) with light weight construction to give a class leading power-to-weight ratio of 434PS per tonne. The 570S accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds, while 200 km/h (124 mph) is reached in just 9.5 seconds with the pace not letting up till the car reaches a top speed of 328 km/h (204mph). The Coupé is the first bodystyle to be shown in the Sports Series, highlighting the latest evolution of the McLaren design philosophy. The ‘shrinkwrapped’, aerodynamically-optimised form will be seen in public for the first time at the 115th New York International Auto Show. The McLaren design team has created a shape of beauty highlighted by details such as the rear flying buttresses that increase downforce as well as adding grace, and complex door tendons that direct additional air to cool the mid-mounted V8 engine. The Sports Series features an evolution of the 3.8-litre V8 twin turbo engine, named M838TE, with 30 percent of components bespoke to the new model. Engineered by McLaren, it produces 570PS (562 bhp) at 7,400 rpm, and 600Nm (443 lb ft) of torque at 5,000-6,500 rpm. Power is delivered through a seven-speed SSG transmission, and transferred to the road through the rear wheels. This power is brought under control with standard-fit carbon ceramic brakes, fitted behind a newly designed range of forged alloy wheel options with P Zero™ Corsa tyres as standard from McLaren technical partner, Pirelli – 225/35/R19 on the front and 285/35/R20 on the rear. The unique carbon fibre MonoCell II chassis has been newly designed with more of a focus on day-to-day usability, offering improved ingress and egress from the cabin. It is incredibly strong and stiff yet weighs less than 80kg, offering optimum levels of protection. This lightweight structure, and the use of aluminium body panels, contributes to a dry weight of as low as 1,313kg (2,895lbs), almost 150kg lighter than its closest competitor. Minimised weight and a turbocharged engine doesn’t just bring great performance. The 570S also delivers excellent fuel efficiency and emissions for car that is also a member of the 200mph club, with fuel economy of 25.5mpg on the EU combined cycle, and emissions of 258g/km. For the US market, this means exemption from gas guzzler tax. A PURE McLAREN BOTH ON ROAD AND TRACK The 570S shows an evolution in the design direction for McLaren, with the McLaren ‘face’ seen on models in the Super Series and Ultimate Series sharpened further. This unique and striking appearance has been designed by air, with a bespoke aerodynamic package including aero blades below the front bumper giving a purposeful stance while channelling clean, cold air through the lower leading edge of the bodywork. Large ultra bright LED headlamps, fitted as standard to all Sports Series models, flank a sculpted bonnet which channels airflow over the front wheelarches. The intricately designed dihedral doors, a McLaren design signature since the iconic F1, possess a three dimensional form including a ‘floating’ door tendon which houses a discreet door button. This unique feature divides the airflow, channelling it into the side intakes and underneath the flying buttresses. This architectural structure ensures drag is minimised along the profile of the 570S, while also optimising levels of cooling and downforce. Flying buttresses at the rear of the teardrop-shaped glasshouse form part of the aero package, directing air over the shoulderline of the 570S and across the rear deck aiding heat evacuation from the exposed engine bay and increasing downforce. Super-formed aluminium rear fenders ensure clean air is delivered to the fixed rear spoiler, again maximising downforce. The rear of the car is clean and uncluttered, with LED light blade rear lamps which follow the form of the sculpted panels. The rear of the vehicle features an aluminium mesh allowing effective heat evacuation as well as a view into the engine bay. This sits below a concave rear window, another signature Sports Series Coupé design cue. The twin exhausts exit below the rear bumper, either side of a newly designed and highly intricate rear diffuser. The Sports Series has its own newly-developed suspension system ensuring enhanced levels of driver engagement and refinement on both road and track. It uses independent adaptive dampers with front and rear anti-rollbars – distinct from the Super Series – and dual wishbones, with the set up controlled by the familiar ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ handling settings. In ‘Normal’ mode, the system provides a refined yet engaging ride, while the ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ settings allow the 570S to become more track-focused when required. THE MOST USABLE McLAREN TO DATE Like every McLaren the cabin of the 570S has been designed around the driver, with a clear focus on engagement, visibility, functionality and more than any McLaren before it, day-to-day usability and space. As standard, the sports seats are leather upholstered – racing seats are optional – offering a high level of long distance comfort and support. The dashboard and steering wheel are also all leather trimmed. Intelligent and ergonomic design within the cabin provides extended stowage space, with the most usable space of any McLaren model to date. This adds to the 150 litres of storage in the front luggage bay. The 570S is comprehensively equipped with a full infotainment system including an all new TFT digital instrument cluster that changes configuration according to driving mode, a seven-inch IRIS touchscreen, now with integrated climate control functionality, Bluetooth connectivity and DAB digital / SIRIUS satellite radio (depending on market), mounted on a ‘floating’ centre console. Despite the extensive specification list, weight-saving is still a key focus on the interior and the McLaren Audio four-speaker system ensures the optimal sound quality at the lowest possible weight. With the Sports Series, an even greater variety of interior customisation is available with a variety of factory available Alcantara®, nappa leather and carbon fibre options. In addition, McLaren designers have created a range of ‘By McLaren’ bespoke interior specifications, similar to those also available on the 675LT, teaming carefully selected colours and materials designed to best showcase the stylish cabin space and co-ordinate with each exterior paint colour. In addition to this, a McLaren Audio Plus 8-Speaker Upgrade System and bespoke Bowers & Wilkins 12-Speaker Premium Audio System with 1280W surround sound upgrade is also available for the ultimate audio experience. Further details of the McLaren 570S will be confirmed following the global reveal, which will take place on Wednesday 1 April, 2015 at the New York International Auto Show. The McLaren Automotive press conference will start at 14.55 EST (19.55 GMT) on Stand 704, Level 3.

Before the full madness of the New York Auto Show comes upon us, I thought it would be a good idea to talk about this week's test car and spill some thoughts on it. The vehicle in question happens to be the 2015 Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler, which is a special edition model for the 2015 model year. Based on the Sport model, the Willys Wheeler gets such features as rock rails from the Rubicon model, 17-inch wheels, a new rear differential, and a number of decals on the outside. I like the exterior treatment with the grey paint, blacked out wheels and grille; and decals that harken back to the original Jeep from the 40's The interior is somewhat cramped due to the short wheelbase and body shell. Also don't expect to have adult passengers in the back as there no legroom. I currently have the hardtop on the Wrangler and will testing how easy it is to remove and put back together. The Pentastar V6 and five-speed automatic give the Wrangler some much needed oomph. Like the 500L Easy, I'll be updating this as the week goes on. In the meantime, if you have questions, put them below and I'll do my best to answer them.

Bringing back an iconic name plate is a tough thing to pull off. But Lincoln believes they can do it. Before the official start of the New York Auto Show on Wednesday, the luxury automaker pulled the sheets off the Continental Concept. Lincoln says this concept previews a new full-size luxury sedan that will go on sale in North America and China next year. The overall look of the Continental Concept oddly reminds us of the Bentley Continental Flying Spur. The front end does away with the split wing grille that is common on current Lincoln models and replaces it with a new chrome centerpiece and glowing Lincoln emblem. On either side of the centerpiece are a set LED matrix headlamps, with laser-assist high-beams. Along the side are a set of 21-inch wheels and "E-Latch" handles that are discretely placed into the Continental's beltine. The back is wide and low, with a set of slim taillights and new exhaust tips. Inside is a treat for the eyes with a fair bit of chrome trim, seats upholstered in Venetian leather and Alcantara; a satin headliner, and wool carpet. Front seat passengers get 30-way adjustments and adjustable bolsters to have the seat fit them perfectly. Back seat passengers get a wrath of luxuries such as a two-seat layout, tray tables, a champagne storage compartment, and handmade Venetian leather travel cases. Lincoln says the concept is powered by a 3.0L EcoBoost V6, though power specs weren't released at this time. We also don't know if power is being sent to the front, rear, or all four wheels. Source: Lincoln Press Release is on Page 2 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL CONCEPT SHOWS THE FUTURE OF QUIET LUXURY AND UPCOMING FULL-SIZE SEDAN Elegant, effortlessly powerful and serene, the Lincoln Continental Concept signals the brand’s all-new full-size sedan coming next year and the future of quiet luxury Lincoln Continental Concept integrates technologies designed to create better drivers, rejuvenate and entertain passengers, including all-new, Lincoln-exclusive 3.0-liter EcoBoost® engine, patented 30-way seats and premium Revel audio system New Continental Concept introduces E-Latch door handles, LED matrix headlamps with laser-assist high beams and SPD SmartGlass® tinting sunroof NEW YORK, March 30, 2015 –Lincoln today introduces the Continental Concept, signaling an all-new full-size sedan coming next year and the future of quiet luxury. Elegant, effortlessly powerful and serene, the Continental Concept blends meticulous craftsmanship and technologies designed to create better drivers and provide passengers with a more relaxing and entertaining environment inspired by first-class travel. “Luxury at its best is about simplifying and quietly exceeding expectations, rather than being the loudest statement on the road,” said Mark Fields, Ford Motor Company president and CEO. “The Continental Concept showcases the promise of quiet luxury from Lincoln going forward. It also is a strong indication of what’s to come next year as we introduce our new Lincoln Continental full-size luxury sedan.” With a sleek silhouette and a new centered chrome grille, the Continental Concept signals the arrival of a new face for Lincoln. A raised Lincoln badge is surrounded by a span of repeating polished aluminum Lincoln Star emblems. E-Latch door handles tuck discreetly in the clean vehicle beltline. The door handle technology also provides for elegant entry. The doors open effortlessly with the touch of a button positioned on the underside of the door handle wings and close quietly. “Some brands talk about ‘the machine,’ ” said Kumar Galhotra, Lincoln president. “Lincoln is different. For us, it is about more than the machine. It is about what our vehicles do for our clients.” New technology is a hallmark of the vehicle. It starts with the vehicle sensing your approach and lighting up to greet you inside and out. Outside, signature full-width tail lamps feature advanced light-through-chrome technology. Powerful LED matrix head lamps with laser-assist high beams reduce glare and improve visibility. Rhapsody Blue metallic paint calls back Lincoln Continental’s signature color. Inside are the brand’s most sensual materials ever, including Venetian leather seat and door panels, Alcantara® seat inserts and armrests, satin headliner and shearling wool carpet. Rose Gold trim around the instrument cluster provides warmth. Bright chrome trim on the instrument panel adds contrast. Ambient lighting enhances the interior, creating a serene environment. Soft-gold LED lights glow from the center console and from the halo light overhead. Patented 30-way Lincoln-designed seats use a new-to-market design that conforms to passengers’ sizes and shapes. The passenger-side rear seat can fully recline by moving the front passenger seat forward with the touch of a button. From a panel mounted on the through-center console, rear passengers also can control climate settings and the Revel Ultima audio system, which allows passengers to select from three surround-sound modes: Stereo, Audience and On-Stage. Rear-seat comfort is further highlighted by an SPD SmartGlass® tinting sunroof, which allows passengers to control heat from direct sunlight. With the touch of a button, the glass can cool the vehicle interior by as much as 18 degrees Fahrenheit, while blocking 99 percent of UV rays. Rear-seat passengers also enjoy the convenience of a tablet-supporting lap tray that deploys from the through-center console. It also features a champagne storage compartment. Detachable, hand-crafted Venetian leather travel cases are mounted to the backside of the front seats. Under the skin, the Continental Concept is powered by a Lincoln-exclusive 3.0-liter V6 EcoBoost® engine. It also features Lincoln Drive Control ride-enhancing technologies and Adaptive Steering. The car rides on polished-aluminum, painted-pocket 21-inch wheels. Driver assist technologies include Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Enhanced Park Assist and a 360-degree camera that displays on the MyLincoln Touch™ screen. “The Lincoln Continental name is associated with iconic beauty and elegance,” said David Woodhouse, Lincoln design director. “Capturing those qualities and building upon them drove us as we crafted this thoroughly modern sedan concept.” The Lincoln Continental Concept is at the New York International Auto Show, which opens Wednesday for members of the news media.