William Maley

Whenever a new BMW M3 (and M4) appears, you can expect other automakers to introduce their competitors to give the roundel a run for its money. Mercedes-Benz is the first automaker to launch its competitor to the M3/M4 and the name is the Mercedes-AMG C63. Mercedes-AMG? Are you sure you didn't mistype that? No. From now on, AMG vehicles will wear the Mercedes-AMG nameplate. This was introduced on the upcoming Mercedes-AMG GT coupe that will do battle with the Porsche 911. Like the E63, the new C63 will be offered in two states of tune. The standard C63 features a twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 producing 469 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The C63 S increases the output to 503 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Both models use a seven-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch transmission which routes power to the rear wheels only. 0-60 is done in 4 seconds in the C63, while the S does it in 3.9 seconds. The C63 features dynamic engine mounts which can vary how much stiffness the chassis has. There's also a three-stage adjustable damping system and four different driving modes (Controlled Efficiency, Sport, Sport+, and Race). Styling-wise, the C63 features a new front bumper with larger intakes and splitter; either 18-inch (C63) or 19-inch (C63 S) wheels; wider front fenders, and a new rear bumper with a diffuser. The C63 and C63 S arrive at dealers in March, with a special Edition 1 model as well that features unique exterior and interior appointments. Source: Mercedes-Benz William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 The New Mercedes-AMG C63 Powerful High-Performance Athlete September 24, 2014 Affalterbach. Pure fascination and breathtaking dynamics – the new Mercedes-AMG C63 sets benchmarks. The high-tech drivetrain, the signature AMG handling and the high level of individuality in optional equipment guarantee an utterly unique driving experience. The pinnacle of the C-Class line-up is driven by an all new 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine closely related to the power unit that provides breathtaking propulsion in the new Mercedes-AMG GT. The power spectrum ranges from 469 hp in the C63 to 503 hp in the C63 S. With an unrivalled fuel fuel economy, the C63 is the most fuel-efficient eight-cylinder car in the high-performance segment. The extensive range of standard equipment includes the AMG Adaptive sports suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers, the mechanical rear locking differential and the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT with its multiple drive programs. Additionally, there will be a highly exclusive "Edition 1" model available from market launch. Dynamics plus long-distance comfort –the new Mercedes-AMG C63 offers impressive engine output with exceptionally low fuel consumption figures, outstanding longitudinal and lateral dynamics and yet delivers a high level of everyday usability. As form is just as important as function, the interior and exterior design is more distinctive than ever before. The V8 pinnacle in the C-Class portfoilio is available in a choice of two models –the Mercedes-AMG C63 S and C63, with the C63 S set up for even more dynamic handling and performance. The Mercedes-AMG C63 celebrates its world premiere on October 2, 2014 together with the show premiere of the Mercedes-AMG GT at the Salon de l’Automobile in Paris. Market introduction in the USA begins in March 2015 with both the C63 and C63 S launching at the same time. "We are also marking the beginning of a new era with the new nomenclature. The successor to the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, which has been incredibly successful worldwide, will now be called the Mercedes-AMG C63," says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. "At 40,000 units, the 204 C63 AMG was the bestselling AMG model. We will now add to this success with the new Mercedes-AMG C63. Be it in drive, handling or equipment, the Mercedes-AMG C63 sets new benchmarks and will further strengthen our brand promise ‘Driving Performance’. AMG customers can look forward to an exceptionally dynamic driving experience." Best in fuel consumption, best in performance The C63 is at the forefront of the competitive field. The new high-performance vehicles from Affalterbach are the only ones in the segment to be equipped with an eight-cylinder biturbo engine. The result is impressive power delivery and a highly emotional engine sound – a signature of the AMG brand. Drivers benefit from unrivalled performance delivered by a supreme level of power and torque. The C63 S accelerates from zero to 60mph in 3.9 seconds and the C63 in 4.0. The top speed is 155mph (electronically limited). "Naturally, the new Mercedes-AMG C63 is once again powered by an eightcylinder engine. The passionate power delivery and highly emotional sound of our 4.0-liter V8 biturbo are truly compelling. At the same time, we are maintaining our leading role in the core issue of efficiency. No other highperformance V8 automobile is more fuel efficient than the new C63," says Christian Enderle, Head of Development Engine and Drivetrain at Mercedes-AMG GmbH. The C63 not only holds the top position in terms of engine data and performance, it also sets new benchmarks in fuel consumption. The high-performance car from Affalterbach demonstrates exceptional efficiency that puts it at the top of the segment. And it does not stop there – the C63 is the most fuel-efficient eightcylinder, high-performance vehicle in the world. It achieves a remarkable decrease in fuel consumption compared with the preceding C63 AMG. The new Mercedes-AMG C63 consumes around 32 percent less fuel than its direct predecessor with the 6.3-liter V8 naturally aspirated engine – while delivering even more performance and the emotional sound that is a signature of the AMG V8. New V8 biturbo closely related to the engine in the Mercedes-AMG GT This impressive efficiency improvement is rooted in the new drive package. The M177 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine is a close relative of the M178, which is the sports-car heart of the new Mercedes-AMG GT. The innovative eightcylinder is notable for its outstanding power delivery, targeted lightweight design, high efficiency and environmental compatibility. It also fulfills the highest standards in terms of noise and vibration comfort. The newly developed eight-cylinder features biturbocharging, whereby the two chargers are not located on the outside of the cylinder banks, but instead, within the cylinder V – specialists refer to this as the "hot inside V". The resulting benefits are a compact engine design, optimum responsiveness and low exhaust emissions. Petrol piezo direct injection with spray-guided combustion Mixture preparation is handled by the petrol piezo direct injection system used exclusively by Mercedes. The third generation of the spray-guided combustion process has been developed to meet all future legislative requirements. A sophisticated engine cooling system ensures high performance even at ambitious race-track speeds. Performance exhaust system available as an option Fascination, emotionality and immediate recognition – engine sound is an important development objective. The C63 and C63 S feature a sports exhaust system with a dynamic electronically controlled exhaust flap. Depending on the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program, the engine sound varies between low-key for long-distance travel and raw emotionality. The exhaust flap is located in the front third, at the interface between the two pipes. Its infinitely variable actuation is controlled on the basis of the drive program, the performance wishes of the driver and the engine speed. A Performance exhaust system with three electronically controlled exhaust flaps is available as an option for both engine variants. It provides the driver with an even greater level of control of the exhaust note via a button on the center console. In the "Comfort" drive program, the engine is quieter and more comfortable, while, in "Sport +" and "Race", the V8 sound is even more dominant and evocative of a race touring car – complete with acoustic up-shift and distinctive double de-clutching feedback. In addition to setting it via the drive programme, the engine sound can also be set individually at any time at the push of a button. C63 S comes as standard with dynamic engine mounts A further new feature of the C63 S that is unique in the competitive field is the dynamic engine mounts – as used on the Mercedes-AMG GT. They address the conflict of interest between comfort and handling by reducing vibration from the engine/transmission unit. The dynamic mounts can adapt their stiffness smoothly and in fractions of a second to the prevailing driving conditions and style. Soft engine mounts improve comfort by better reducing noise and vibration. Handling and agility, on the other hand, benefit from slightly stiffer mounts. When driving dynamically, the driver feels more closely connected to the vehicle as a result of increased feedback, while steering response is more direct. The driver benefits overall from a more precise driving feel. Minimized movement of the drivetrain mass calls for less correction on turn-in. Engine production by hand – "one man, one engine" Powerful V8 engines have always been one of the competencies of AMG, the Mercedes-Benz performance brand. Mercedes-AMG GmbH is fully responsible for development and production. The 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine is manufactured in the Affalterbach engine shop in accordance with the "one man, one engine" principle. Variable dynamics – the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission A large part of the direct and sporty character of the new Mercedes-AMG C63 is attributable to the transmission. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission offers a compelling mix of tailor-made dynamics and exceptional variability. The MCT transmission was extensively redeveloped for application in the C63 and is now even faster in its reaction times. Be it automatic or triggered at the steering wheel paddle by the driver, a manual up or down-shift is now noticeably faster than in the last model. The transmission is now significantly more spontaneous in the "Sport +" and manual modes in particular. This increase in responsiveness was enabled by optimization of the transmission’s hardware and software. Also, the aluminium shift paddles on the Performance steering wheel are now able to transmit the driver’s shift inputs even faster than before, thus further increasing the dynamic feel. One look at the drive programmes shows the high variability of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission. The available choices are "Controlled Efficiency", "Sport" and "Sport +" – as well as "Race", which is exclusive to the C63 S. The driver chooses from the various drive programmes with the aid of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch. The "temporary M" function, activated by using the paddles, delivers a further increase in dynamics in any mode. AMG Adaptive sport suspension with 3-stage adjustable damping Fascinating agility, high cornering speeds and optimum neutrality – the C63 is equipped with independent suspension featuring a high proportion of aluminium, dynamic-oriented kinematics, electronically controlled shock absorbers and AMG-specific elastokinematics. With the AMG Dynamic sport suspension, the customer can vary characteristics in three stages between maximum sporting performance and good long-distance comfort. At the front of the C63 is a four-link front suspension with motorsport-based radially mounted brakes. Independent steering knuckles and a wider track permit higher lateral acceleration. The multilink rear suspension with independent wheel mounts likewise has a higher negative camber. To improve traction and dynamics, the C63 has a mechanical locking differential at the rear, while the C63 S is equipped with an electronic rear locking differential. Both locking differentials reduce slip at the inside wheel without braking input. As a result, the driver can accelerate sooner out of corners and the car maintains its stability when braking at high speed. The locking differential also improves traction when accelerating from a standstill. Compared with the mechanical solution, the benefits of the electronic locking rear differential, which is standard equipment on the C63 S, are its faster and more finely tuned control, thus pushing the physical limits of the driving envelope even higher. The standard 3-stage ESP® with the functions "ESP ON", "SPORT Handling Mode" and "ESP OFF" is perfectly networked with the locking rear differential and expertly tuned to the high level of dynamics. The electromechanical speed-sensitive sport steering ensures precise and agile handling, with the driver benefitting from a direct ratio and optimized response characteristics. It also has variable power assistance, whereby the steering force is adapted relative to the current vehicle speed. The power assistance reacts not only in accordance with vehicle speed, but also in line with current lateral acceleration and the drive programme chosen via AMG DYNAMIC SELECT. The C63 runs as standard on titanium grey painted and polished alloy wheels measuring 8.5 x 18 (front) and 9.5 x 18 (rear) in 10-spoke design and clad in 245/40 R 18 tires (front) and 265/40 R 18 (rear). The tire dimensions on the C63 S are 245/35 R 19 (front) and 265/35 R 19 (rear) running on alloy wheels measuring 8.5 x 19 (front) and 9.5 x 19 (rear) in 5-twin-spoke design, painted in titanium grey and polished. A high-performance, ceramic-composite brake system is available for the first time as optional equipment for the C63 S. Optional sport cup tires ensure a noticeable and measurable increase in grip. AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programmes The driver can use four different AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programmes to influence the characteristics of the C63. The C63 S has the additional "Race" programme, which enables a maximum level of individualisation. The driver defines the driving experience using a switch to the left of the touchpad. There is a choice of several different pre-configured driving programmes and an "Individual" drive programme, which allows extensive self-configuration. "Controlled Efficiency" is the balanced drive programme with a comfortable Page 7 suspension and steering set-up as well as fuel-optimized drivetrain settings – including soft gearshifts and a more restrained engine sound. The "Gliding Function" is completely new and delivers a further reduction in fuel consumption. If the driver lifts off the accelerator between37 and 99 mph - , the clutch of the MCT transmission opens and the engine is decoupled from the drivetrain. The electronics system reduces the engine revs to idle, and the resistance generated by the compression and frictional forces produced under trailing throttle are reduced. The "Sport" and "Sport +" drive programmes increase sporting intensity. "Race" is reserved exclusively for the C63 S and is the optimum setting for ambitious laps on a closed race track. Form follows performance – the design reflects the technology Form follows performance – the design of the powerful V8 top model is influenced by motorsport and reflects its fascinating technology. Sensual clarity combines with stylish sporting character – the Mercedes C63 inspires fascination from the very first glance. From a visual standpoint, the new model is clearly a member of the Mercedes-AMG family. The exteriors of the C63 and C63 S are differentiated by specific design elements. The emotional, sensual surface design of the new C-Class, with its reduced, minimalist forms, now has an added, positive tension that gives it a truly dynamic character. The wider track and powerful eight-cylinder call for a completely standalone front end. The Mercedes-AMG C63 has aluminium front fenders, widened on each side by 0.55" and bearing "V8 BITURBO" lettering. The entire front end has also been lengthened by 2.12". In addition, the structure of the body-in-white has been reinforced in specific areas in order to compensate for the extreme longitudinal and transverse forces generated and transmitted by the drivetrain and running gear. Mercedes-AMG sets clear accents in sporting character, expressed succinctly at the front end – gracing the long aluminium bonnet are two distinctive power domes. Together with the wider front fenders, they guarantee a particularly muscular look. Positioned low down and with a characteristic arrow form, the "twin blade" radiator grille with AMG lettering lowers the vehicle’s visual center of gravity. The "A-wing" takes a three-dimensional form and also serves as an airflow guide for the three cooling air intakes. Flics ensure optimum airflow to the cooling module. Along the lower edge of the front skirt, a front splitter helps to increase downforce. At the rear end, the diffuser insert with three fins is a feature carried over from motorsport, as are the visual air outlets positioned on either side. They generate defined air separation edges and improve the cd figure. The two chrome-plated twin end pipes of the AMG sport exhaust system are perfectly integrated into the diffuser. The C63 Sedan has a separation edge on the rear deck lid,–which ensures even better grip at the rear axle. Stunning interior design Every detail in the interior of the C63 contributes to a stunning overall effect. The careful choice of select, first-class materials, their sumptuous tactile qualities and their precision craftsmanship deliver a sense of quality that is seldom seen even in higher vehicle classes. Like the exterior, the more powerful C63 S is distinguished from the C63 on the inside by a number of design details. The dashboard is finished in black ARTICO man-made leather, with the premium look-and-feel further enhanced by stitching in crystal grey, the winglike trim element in aluminium and the AMG-exclusive, IWC-design analogue clock (depending on equipment choice). Next to the touchpad is the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT switch as well as a number of AMG-specific controls, such as the button for the 3-stage AMG Dynamic sport suspension, the 3-stage ESP® and the optional button for the Performance exhaust system with variable exhaust flap control. The instrument cluster and the 3-spoke Performance steering wheel with 12-o’clock mark deliver a dynamically sporty ambience. Equipped with dedicated carbon weave-pattern dials and signature AMG numerals. Performance seats are also available as an alternative to the standard sports seats in MB-Tex / DINAMICA microfibre. They give occupants a lower seating position and ensure increased lateral grip due to their more powerfully contoured form. A range of further optional equipment means the Mercedes-AMG C63 can be extensively tailored to individual preferences. Exclusive and irresistible – the C63 "Edition 1" The Mercedes-AMG C63 S is also available from market launch as an "Edition 1" – with a stunning and irresistible combination of exclusive design and equipment features.. The "Edition 1" can be identified from the outside by a number of design highlights: Forged wheels in 8.5 x 19 and 9.5 x 19 cross-spoke design, painted matte black with the rim painted in red; tires are 245/35 R 19 (front) and 265/35 R 19 (rear) Night package (A-wing and trim in high-gloss black, wing mirror housings in high-gloss black, sill cladding inlays in high-gloss black, waistline trim and window frames in high-gloss black, radiator grille with double fin in silver chrome, Black-chromed twin end pipe fairings Red accentson radiator grille and wing mirrors Sport stripes in matte graphite grey above sill cladding The distinctive color combination carries into the interior: Performance seats, door center panels and armrest in black nappa leather with diamond pattern and red contrasting stitching designo seatbelts in red Performance steering wheel in DINAMICA microfibre, flattened bottom, with red 12-o’clock marking, red contrasting stitching, steering wheel fairing in silver chrome with "Edition 1" lettering and silvercolored aluminium shift paddles Trim element in carbon red pepper / light aluminium with longitudinal grain and red filaments Floor mats in black with "AMG" lettering and piping in red Highest safety levels The stated aim of Mercedes-Benz is to make the highest level of safety available to all. For this reason, the C-Class features many of the new and extensively enhanced assistance systems that celebrated their world premieres just a few months ago in the S and E-Class. Standard equipment on-board the C63 includes enhanced drowsiness warning system ATTENTION ASSIST and COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, which helps to avoid rear-end collisions. The assistance systems increase both comfort and safety. Mercedes-Benz calls this "Intelligent Drive". The predecessor to the new C-Class already demonstrated impressive results in terms of passive safety. The new model exceeds these and sets new benchmarks. View full article

Infiniti's showing for the Paris Motor Show seems to be inspired by the likes of the Audi A7 and Porsche Panamera with their four-door fastback design. Meet the Q80 Inspiration Concept. Infiniti's take on the four-door fastback is to add more curves throughout the body. You also notice that the concept doesn't have any door handles or side-view mirrors. The company says that would only take away from the design profile. As for measurements, the Q80 Inspiration Concept is 198.9 inches long, 79.8 inches wide, 53.1 inches tall, and a wheelbase of 122.2 inches. Inside, the Q80 Inspiration Concept features seating for four passengers and comes with carbon fiber, aluminum, and leather. "After showing Q30 Concept and Q50 Eau Rouge, Infiniti is eager to show the upper range of our portfolio expansion," said Infiniti Executive Design Director, Alfonso Albaisa. "In Q80 Inspiration, we wanted to capture that unforgettable feeling when you experience something important, something beautiful, something magnetic for the first time." We'll have more information on the Q80 Inspiration Concept when debuts at Paris, next week. Source: Infiniti Press Release is on Page 2 Feasting the senses: Infiniti Q80 Inspiration - Infiniti unveils four-door concept that will lead to future model - Q80 Inspiration embodies the invigorated Infiniti brand - Fastback sedan showcases autonomy and powertrain technologies HONG KONG / PARIS – The Paris Auto Show is fast approaching, and companies are jockeying for position in the eye of a media storm. Infiniti presents Q80 Inspiration: Infiniti's vision of category-breaking, supreme luxurious driving – a top-of-the-line, four-seat fastback that rises above the crowd. It's an audacious and elegant step forward for Infiniti as a global player designed to shake up the status quo in the premium large four-door club – a no-compromise ambassador of driver-centric powertrain and onboard technologies. At 15:30 local time on October 2 in Hall 5 of the Parc des Expositions de Versailles in Paris, Infiniti will introduce the progressive Q80 Inspiration to the media and provide a glimpse into its high-performance and efficient hybrid-electric powertrain implementation as well as additional technologies. In profile, Infiniti Q80 Inspiration extends to 5052 millimeters (198.9 inches) with a long wheelbase of 3103 mm (122.2 in) framed by custom 22-inch five-dual-spoke lightweight alloys. It strikes an imposing stance with its width of 2027 mm (79.8 in) and height of 1350 mm (53.1 in). "After showing Q30 Concept and Q50 Eau Rouge, Infiniti is eager to show the upper range of our portfolio expansion," said Infiniti Executive Design Director, Alfonso Albaisa. "In Q80 Inspiration, we wanted to capture that unforgettable feeling when you experience something important, something beautiful, something magnetic for the first time." The Q80 Inspiration's expansive, edgy, sensual interpretation of the Infiniti brand really makes a statement. There are no side-door mirrors to break up the aesthetics of the unmistakable profile. The full roof length of the teardrop passenger greenhouse is accentuated by lightweight acoustic glass. And its doors open portal style, which allows the stunning cabin to be fully on display while driver and passengers step in and out with ease. A concept as impactful as Q80 Inspiration is set to push boundaries in more ways than through the beauty of its attention-grabbing skin. The cabin is able to bring together the four occupants in a highly stylized and personalized ambiance of the highest quality. Carbon fiber, aluminum and leather surround those inside in spacious "1 + 1 + 1 + 1" seating. Earmarked for an advanced adaptive suspension, the light and rigid chassis combines with the acoustic glass all around and additional sound deadening to promise a driving and ride experience among the very best. A design and technological highlight to which Infiniti's four worldwide design studios will refer regularly in coming years, the Q80 Inspiration four-door fastback is to be taken as clear intent to have an entry into the newly defined premium fastback segment. View full article

He's 100% right. However, I fear that GM's way of doing business is not compatible with this... I have that same fear as well.

Cadillac's president isn't planning to cut prices to reverse the trend of slumping sales for the brand. "We cannot deny the fact that we are leaving behind our traditional customer base. It will take several years before a sufficiently large part of the audience who until now have been concentrating on the German brands will find us in their consideration set," said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen in a interview with Automotive News. "Either you have to bring your volume aspirations into alignment with reality and accept that you will sell fewer cars. Or you have to drop the price and continue to transact at the prices where you were historically. I think the logical conclusion is that it's better to build off a very solid base in terms of [product] credibility, charge a fair price for the car and realize you have to wait until the volume comes." Some Cadillac dealers and analysts believe the pricing strategy that the brand has taken to be in line with such competitors as Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz is hurting the brand. But de Nysschen is confident in Cadillac's lineup and believes that the brand's legacy buyers will give way to import buyers who are interested in the brand thanks to a better customer experience and a more fleshed-out portfolio. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

At one time, Toyota had a real shot of toppling the big three in full-size truck sales. When the second-generation Tundra arrived on dealer lots in 2007, Toyota had a huge marketing campaign for it; complete with commercials and magazine ads. People took notice of this and the automaker moved 196,555 units that year. While that still lagged behind the stalwarts (F-Series: 690,589 units; Silverado: 618,257 units), it was dangerously close to the GMC Sierra (208,243 units). But then a funny thing happened. Sales began to drop in the coming years. In 2008, Toyota moved 137,249 Tundras and in the following year, only 79,385 units. Now there are many factors that go into this such as the housing crisis and Toyota offering the Tundra in only a light duty model, but there is one key factor many agree on; after 2007, the marketing seem to disappear in a flash. An odd choice considering that many of its competitors kept advertising like crazy. Which brings us to last year where Toyota introduced the redesigned 2014 Tundra at the Chicago Auto Show. With a restyled exterior, improved interior, and better electronics, Toyota said they were ‘giving customers more of what they want.’ The response was a bit lukewarm if we’re being a kind. But sometimes, first impressions can be deceiving. Maybe the 2014 Tundra has something up its sleeve that we’re not seeing and could give the stalwarts a run for their money. I recently spent a week in a 2014 Tundra CrewMax Limited to see. The 2014 Tundra looks very much like the previous Tundra at first glance, thanks to the two sharing a similar profile. Get in a bit closer and its a little bit more noticeable that the 2014 model is a tad different. Toyota sanded down the bubbly look of the previous Tundra to give the 2014 model a more muscular stance. The front has a long, imposing grille with a non-functional scoop and reshaped headlights with LED accents. Around the side are a set eighteen-inch TRD off-road wheels. The back comes with the Tundra name embossed in the tailgate and a set of chunky taillights. I'm a bit disappointed that Toyota appears to only have done a mild refresh for Tundra since they could have done so much more. I look at the new Corolla and Highlander and wonder what the designers could have done if they were allowed to go crazy with the Tundra. Unlike the mild refresh outside, Toyota engineers really went all out with the Tundra's interior. The previous model was a mishmash of hard and shiny plastics that wasn’t really fitting for any vehicle. The 2014 model takes some inspiration from Ram and Lexus with a combination soft-touch materials, leather, and higher quality plastics. The center stack has been revised with a standard seven-inch touchscreen featuring the latest version of Toyota’s Entune infotainment system and a new dual-zone climate control system. The new Entune system is still easy to use, but now comes with an updated interface which brings it into the current century. It also should be noted that Toyota pulled an idea from GM’s old infotainment system as the main screen can be divided into two to three quadrants to show much more information at a quick glance. Toyota calls the crew-cab Tundra the Crewmax and once you sit the in the back, you understand why. Sitting in the back, you feel like you’re riding in a limousine due to the comfortable seats and impressive amount of legroom. Toyota says the Crewmax has 42.3 inches of legroom, which is about 1.4 inches more than the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. The Tundra Crewmax also beats the Toyota's largest sedan, the Avalon in rear legroom by 3.1 inches. For Thoughts On The Powertrain and Ride, See Page 2 The Tundra’s powertrain lineup is carried over from the previous-generation. That includes a 4.0L V6, 4.7L V8, and a 5.7L V8. My tester came equipped with the 5.7L which makes 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This is paired up to a six-speed automatic and optional four-wheel drive system. While the power figure seems impressive on paper, a curb weight of 5,890 pounds negates that. Leaving off the line, the 5.7 V8 has excellent response and moves the truck with authority. But as you climb upward in speed, the engine begins to struggle with all of that weight. Not helping matters is throttle response that is somewhat sluggish and you find yourself pushing the pedal further down to reach the power. There also is a unpleasant racket that appears as you climb in speed. The six-speed automatic redeems the powertrain somewhat as its able to deliver smooth shifts quickly. The EPA rates the Tundra equipped with the 5.7L at 13 City/17 Highway/15 Combined. I was able to get 14 MPG for the week. A far cry from truck manufacturers who boast models that can achieve 20 plus MPG on the highway. The Tundra could really use some fuel saving tricks such as direct-injection and cylinder-deactivation. This Tundra came equipped with TRD Off-Road package which adds eighteen-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin LTX AT2 tires, Bilstein shock absorbers, skid plates, and tow hooks. The package really makes the Tundra almost capable in the rough stuff as it was able get through some of the remaining snow in a lot. Toyota has kept solid-rear/leaf-spring setup from the previous-generation. Not surprisingly, the Tundra is a compliant rider as bumps and potholes are transmitted to the passengers. The brand could take some ideas from GM's full-size trucks as they employ the same setup in the rear, but are able to achieve a more comfortable ride. Steering is light and has very good weight whenever you are driving around. After spending a week with the Tundra Limited Crewmax, I found myself scratching my head and wondering who should buy it? The problems with the Tundra range from poor fuel economy, sluggish performance from the V8, and a bouncy ride. But there are some pluses to the Tundra such as the improved interior, the optional TRD package, and an as-tested price of $44,459 make it a real bargain in the full-size class. While the Tundra may not have an ace up its sleeve, it is a good truck. But for many buyers in the full-size truck marketplace, good enough doesn’t cut it. Disclaimer: Toyota Provided the Tundra, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2014 Make: Toyota Model: Tundra Trim: Limited CrewMax Engine: 5.7L DOHC 32-Valve V8 Driveline: Six-Speed Automatic, Four-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 381 @ 5,600 Torque @ RPM: 401 @ 3,600 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 13/17/15 Curb Weight: 5,850 lbs Location of Manufacture: San Antonio, Texas Base Price: $41,895.00 As Tested Price: $44,459.00 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge) Options: Limited Premium Package - $595.00 Bedliner - $365.00 Running Boards - $345.00 TRD Off-Road Package - $100.00 Exhaust Tip - $99.00 Door Sill Protector - $65.00 William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article