The Evaded Wagon

The station wagon is the most well-rounded body style available. With the handling, performance, and efficiency of a sedan, and the utility of an SUV, the wagon offers the best of both worlds. Unfortunately, the wagon is a rare sight in the United States. 

The SUV is the culprit of the wagon's demise. The SUV's immense size, rugged looks, and infrequently used off-road capabilities have  made the wagon seem "un-cool." The general consumer prefers the SUV because of its more masculine style compared to the wagon's "soccer mom" connotation. 

Truth is, there are some seriously cool wagons out there. For example, the Cadillac CTS-V Wagon. With a 556 HP Supercharged V-8, performance tuning, and an available manual transmission, this Caddy is not any average grocery getter. Way cooler than a similarly priced Lexus SUV! The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Wagon is another desirable wagon. Although it is an instrument for the Autobahn, it still has three rows and will swallow cargo. Unfortunately, the choice in America is limited though.

Europeans have recognized the advantages the touring (name for wagon in England) offers. In Europe, where space is limited and there is a tax on CO2 consumption, wagons are more popular than SUVs and even sell in really high volumes. As such, there are numerous choices. Many sedans have wagon variants offered. There are some very alluring vehicles available over there such as the Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake, and the Audi RS6 Avant. 

A wagon's weight is nearly identical to its sedan counterpart and lower than that of a comparable SUV. This means it handles better,  accelerates faster, and uses less fuel. Further, the lower ride height lowers the car's center of gravity, also improving handling. With seats that fold down, wagons are very versatile. Further, many have the same all/four wheel drive systems of their SUV siblings meaning it too can be used year round. No matter how compelling the argument is, the non-enthusiast's aesthetic and practicality perceptions have ultimately killed off the breed in America.  

2013 Aston Martin DB9: Have Virage Customers Been Ripped Off?

Aston Martin's range of sports cars over the last few years can be politely described as "complex". Since it was introduced in the 2005 DB9, the English automaker's "VH" platform has sourced multiple lines and models. Over the years, these models have received small enhancements and refinements.  

For the 2012 model year, Aston Martin launched the Virage. In terms of both sportiness and price, this model sat right in the middle of the DB9 and the flagship DBS. The Virage's V-12 engine was identical to that of the 2012 DB9 except with 20 more horsepower (20 less than the DBS). Other additions included Carbon Ceramic Brakes, different bodywork, sportier suspension tuning, and special interior trim elements. One could purchase this model starting at approximately $210,000. 

For the 2013 model year, Aston Martin discontinued the Virage. Its replacement? The 2013 DB9, which has moved upmarket in terms of content. With the exception of new trunklid spoiler, the Virage's styling was essentially transplanted to the DB9. This includes everything from rims to lighting. Except from the rear (trunklid and badging), it is impossible to tell the difference between the two. Inside, the Virage's special leather pattern and switchgear are now standard fitment on the DB9. 

Mechanically, the 2013 DB9 surpasses the Virage. While the DB9 now too gets Carbon Ceramic Brakes (expensive!), the DB9's updated V-12 is now far superior to the Virage's. Using many of the upgrades developed for the new Vanquish, the DB9's engine now makes a not insignificant 40 hp and 14 lb-ft more than its old engine. Compared to the Virage, thats 20 hp and 37 lb-ft more!

It is no surprise that Aston has ended production on the Virage considering the DB9 has closed the small gap in the lineup where the Virage once slotted. What is a surprise though is the '13 DB9's price. Despite the upgrades, there is no increase in price. COMPARED TO THE VIRAGE, the DB9 represents a great value with its starting price $25,000 lower. As such, all of those customers who purchased a Virage within the last year must be pretty upset. While they do have a more exclusive car, Aston Martin has completely ripped them off!

The Feel of the Wheel: Why Steering Feel is So Important

In nearly every new car review, the topic of steering feedback is brought up. Because so many of today's automakers are switching to electronically actuated steering systems, more and more cars are not transmitting information about the grip of the tires and the road's surface through the wheel. This elimination of feel leads to a disconnected, uninvolved and boring driving experience. 

Electronic steering or electromechanical steering, the primary culprit of this numb steering feel, is becoming more popular because of its impact on efficiency. Unlike a hydraulic system, the electric unit only consumes energy when boost is needed. Don't be fooled however, the improvement in fuel economy is miniscule. The new steering module has been said to improve fuel economy by only 2-3%.  

Not every car needs a lot of steering feel. Cars with an emphasis on luxury rather than sport are justifiably "permitted" to have finger-tip light steering completely devoid of any feel whatsoever. Those drivers not looking for sport will enjoy the effortlessness of heavily assisted numb steering. 

In today's marketplace, very few manufacturers have successfully combined high levels of feel and involvement with electronic steering. It is unlikely that electronic steering will be going anywhere soon. As the switchover has caused so much strife from the automotive press and enthusiasts, hopefully in the future engineers will start to tune systems with more feel, feedback, involvement, responsiveness, and heft. If not, this will be one of many components that detaches the driver from the driving experience. 

Stereo Outsourcing

Bang & Olufsen, Beats by Dr. Dre, Bose, Bowers and Wilkens, Burmester, Harmon Kardon, and Naim. Aside from being general audio companies, each brand has migrated into the interior panels of automobiles. This strategic partnership between automaker and audio company is becoming increasingly common in today's vehicles for a few reasons.  


It has only been a few years since many of these audio brands have been introduced into the auto realm. While Bose and Harmon Kardon are not newcomers to the auto industry, like the newer brands, they have recently proliferated the marketplace. In general, the target customers of the audio brand's non automotive products is similar to that of their partner automaker. By moving into cars, these audio brands can better expose their company's work to a new, yet financially viable market. Basically, it is another source of revenue for these brands. 


The monetary benefits also extend to the automakers themselves. In many cases, these audio companies are not the base system but rather are a "premium" upgrade or are reserved for the top-line models and variants. In some cases, these brand name audio systems are "double upgrades". For example, BMW offers a Bang & Olufsen sound system on its 6 Series for a sizable $3,700 on top of the Harmon Kardon premium sound package upgrade that is $1,800! Similarly, on many Audis one must select the top Prestige trim line, which includes a Bose upgrade, in order to pay about $6,000 more for the B&O system. Other examples of this exorbitant pricing include Porsche's $6,000 for a Burmester and Bentley's $7,000 for their Naim system.


So what does one get when they opt for this level of audio? Many describe it as sitting in a "concert hall". This comes from the multitude of speakers and tweeters, hundreds and even thousands of watts, and excessive and innovative engineering. After all, the automaker passes along most of the development and testing to the people who know best at the audio companies. 


Are the systems worthwhile? For the audiophile, yes. For the average buyer of these vehicles, probably not. For the auto-enthusiast, the sound of the exhaust and engine is the best music one can here! 

Facelifts: Fresh Looks, Low Costs

The automotive facelift is a strategy used by many automakers. While the traditional life cycle lasts for about 6-8 years, the facelift keeps the car looking up to date until the next major redesign. Since the facelift is not a major overhaul, it is only a fraction of the cost of introducing a brand new model. Additionally, it also gives some existing customers an incentive to trade in their pre-facelift model for the latest version. 


Not surprisingly, facelifts vary between manufacturers and even models. There are a few popular things to update though. Most commonly are front and rear aprons. As this is purely cosmetic, it costs very little to change these trim pieces. Also popular are headlight and tailight revisions. Today, many automakers are adding LED accent lighting to give the more modern look. Engine upgrades are also not uncommon. If an automaker has a new engine ready, the facelift is the perfect opportunity to replace the old one and use the new one as a strong selling point. Most engines are used in multiple models, therefore keeping cost down. In some cases, an existing engine is just enhanced, providing small gains in power and fuel economy while also keeping development costs down. Likewise, transmissions with more gears or new calibration are also deployed for similar reasons as new engines. When there are multiple changes automakers like to use the term "all new". However, any facelifted car is not that, but rather just an enhancement.

The Mercedes G Class

For the 2013 model year, Mercedes has attempted to bring some new life back into their aging G Class. The luxurious off-roader has survived with small updates since its development in the 70's. The car is hand-built due to its extremely limited production. In fact, Bentley sells more Continental GT's then Mercedes sells G-Wagons. 

With its underpinnings and many components over 30 years old, the G is by no means a modern vehicle. However, Mercedes has put on a facade to make it fit in with the rest of their up-to-date lineup. Despite this, for the exterior, Mercedes hasn't done a very convincing job. They added the now ubiquitous LED accent lighting, new side mirrors, and rims. 

The interior gets a more significant facelift. In front of the driver's eyes lies a version of Mercedes' current instrument cluster. The vehicle also receives the current premium Mercedes switchgear.  Most significant though is the implementation of Mercedes' latest electronics suite. This includes the current COMMAND system as well as the wide array of the latest driver assistance aids. If there is any place somebody without a keen eye will take notice, it is the interior. 

If the base G550 (G500 in Europe) is not enough there are other options. After a short hiatus, Mercedes has brought back the AMG treatment to the car with not just one but TWO variants. The G63 which will be coming to the US features the latest AMG V8 engine which is a biturbo, direct-injected, 5.5 liter mated to the familiar Mercedes 7-speed transmission. In this application, the engine makes a staggering 536 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque. Available in some European markets only is the even crazier G65. This features Mercedes' venerable 6.0 liter biturbo V-12 making an outrageous 612 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. 

The entire concept of the G-Wagon is absurd. Similar to the idea of a Range Rover, it is a car designed to be a serious off-roader with a luxurious cabin. However, unlike a Range Rover, the G has not benefitted from new architecture and constant upkeep. What's worse is the attempt to make performance versions of a truck that is about as far from a performance car as possible. Instead of a physics defying SUV like the Cayenne Turbo or X5M, you are left with a status symbol. The price alone backs that claim up. The base car pricing comfortably above $100,000 is a sum that one has to be foolish to pay for what you are getting. Coming in close to $150,000 will be the G63, a very confused car. However the epitome of paying for a badge or a symbol is the G65 which would be about $200,000 more then the G63. What you get for that price is 0.1 seconds off the not impressive 0-60 time (relatively) and a few minor trim details.

The sheer concept and ridiculousness of the car will attract a few very wealthy owners. For the rest, the price, the lack of a clear identity, and the archaic underpinnings will be a turn off. Will this scant freshening keep the small customer base coming back for more?

Fisker: A Potential Star or an Idea in Need of Reworking?

Since its introduction, the Fisker Karma has not had an easy time. Plagued by reliability issues, owners are irritated and the Company is spending a lot of money engineering solutions and paying for warranty work. Unfortunately, the Company is having a hard time expanding its range due to funding issues. 


While their advanced "eco-friendly" drivetrain still has to be proven, their car does have some very strong underlying elements. As most would agree, the Karma is incredibly good looking. This is not surprising, considering Henrik Fisker's handsome past achievements. With Mr. Fisker's expertise, this is a very strong  point for the company. This distinctive design can also be seen in other Fisker concepts and their planned second model, the Atlantic.


Another less noticed strength is the aluminum space-frame. Stripped of other components, the frame itself is light weight for its size. More impressive is its extremely high rigidity. This gives more composure and less vibrations when traveling over rougher roads. A stiff platform also helps improve handling. The Karma's architecture is planned to be shared with other Fisker models, therefore these same traits apply.


Remove all of the weight adding components which include the batteries, generators, solar panels, and electronic wiring associated with these complex components and you have a very good underlying car. While doing that though, you change the identity of Fisker. You no longer have the high end "eco-car" image that is the backbone of the Fisker brand, but instead a beautiful sport sedan or GT. Fisker could have been a serious competitor for Maserati and Aston Martin. Making it more attractive as the price is significantly less. Further, with a more traditional powertrain, the Fisker would have been more reliable. 


Without the alternative propulsion, Fisker as a brand would be much more secure right now and have a clearer future. For the enthusiast looking for a hardcore sports sedan, or another great dynamically capable, but comfortable four seater, the Fisker would be a great car. Unfortunately, a small start up brand creating a new segment is highly risky. Will Fisker be a missed opportunity or a revolutionary automaker?

Range Rover: Evolution of a Model to a Sub-Brand

In 1970, Land Rover launched their first Range Rover. In the last decade the full size Range Rover has become a sales success for Land Rover, not so much because of its off road capabilities, but as a luxurious and stylish SUV. These qualities have helped the vehicle establish itself as a symbol of wealth, status, and prestige. 


The Range Rover is considered to be one of the few automotive icons. Like the Porsche 911, VW Beetle, and Mini Cooper, one does not have to be an automotive enthusiast to recognize the Range Rover. In fact, some people confuse Range Rover as being a make rather then a model built by Land Rover. Nevertheless, the big barge that is the Range Rover is undoubtedly the backbone of the Land Rover lineup.  


Because of the cache of the Range Rover name, Land Rover has turned what was once the name of a model into an entire sub-brand. In late 2005 Land Rover introduced the Range Rover Sport. The Range Rover and Range Rover Sport are very different technically. In fact, the Sport and the LR3/LR4 have more parts in common than the Sport does with the full size Range Rover. However, both Range Rover models are better sellers then the cheaper LR4. 


Most recently, at the end of 2011, Land Rover introduced their third Range Rover, the Range Rover Evoque. This entry-level Range Rover shares its fashion conscience styling with its two older siblings while hoping to bring Range Rover to an entirely new market. 


In general, Range Rover has been and will continue to be the key to Land Rover's success, albeit with multiple models. Expect the Range Rover line to grow. The new full size will debut later this year and undoubtedly be a preview to future key Range Rover elements. 

Deliberate Debadging

Today's cars are adorned with badges announcing engine size or type, trim level, line, brand/sub-brand and other information. As a result, more owners are having these designations removed from their vehicle. 


This practice of anonymity is more common in Europe. It is often done for reasons of humility. For instance, a wealthy executive has just spent €156,000 on an extravagant V12 Mercedes S600. He might not want to flaunt the premium he paid to get a top engine in his vehicle. Therefore he might wish to have his badge removed as to deceive some that he only bought the "entry-level" S Class for €80,000.


While some in the US debadge their car for the same reason above, many like to deceive people for the opposite reason. They want others to think they paid more for a higher variant. By not having any designations on their vehicle, the person viewing their car doesn't know that it is actually the "cheap" model they are seeing. 


Most offensive though is the addition of false badges. Some owners will add to their car letters and numerals  that denote a higher specification. Common additions include M, AMG, V8, V12, Turbo, Supercharged or even changing the model number around to fool people.  


Also common is the desire to just have a cleaner look. To some, having badges can obstruct the lines of the car or be overly fussy. 


In Europe, many automakers offer a no charge badge or model designation delete option. Very few manufacturers bring this option over to America. This highlights the difference in popularity between the two consumer populations. 


Despite their best efforts, any respectable car enthusiast can tell if there is a false identification. Exterior clues such as exhaust tips, rims, aprons, grilles and other designators are easy giveaways.  Enthusiasts can also identify the distinction between a package and a completely different variant. It can even be extremely satisfying to know you see right through their motives.     

Ferrari's New F12 Berlinetta

This past Wednesday Ferrari released their 599 successor, the F12 Berlinetta. The front engined V12 will be holding the flagship spot in Ferrari's lineup until their next halo car arrives.


The engine is an upgraded version of the 6.3 liter engine found in the FF. With 110 more horsepower, and over 300 pounds lighter then the 599 GTB, the F12 is a technical masterpiece. Like the 458 Italia, the F12 generates an extremely high hp/liter figure for a naturally aspirated engine. While the engine is high strung making its peak 730 hp at a screaming 8000rpm,  it won't be a slouch in the lower rev range because it is a big V12. 


On the styling front, the rear definitely has ties to the FF while the front end is more of a combination of the FF and 458. In the recent past, Ferarri models have looked very different from one another, but their latest three models being so similar indicate Ferrari is moving to a "Corporate Profile" front end, just like Audi. The window line more closely resembles the older 575 Maranello than the 599 GTB. On the other hand, the interior is a mesh of 458 and FF. As expected, Ferrari added their stalkless steering wheel to the car. 


The Berlinetta also gets the latest suite of Ferrari performance technology. The excellent 7 speed dual-clutch transmission makes its way over to this model. Unfortunately, this also marks the end of the a true manual option for Ferrari's cars. 


The engineers in Maranello seem to have once again worked their magic. No matter what the public thinks of the styling, this car is sure to be yet another success for Ferrari. Ferrari seems to be moving this car upmarket. Unlike the 612 Scaglietti and the 599 GTB Fiorano which were priced similarly, the F12 should be closer to $400K! Don't be surprised to see a long waiting list or units selling for over MSRP as all of the hot new Ferraris do after launch. 

The Ideal Modern Engine

With rising gas prices and new fuel economy standards, automakers are finding their own ways to make vehicles more efficient. One common way is to enhance old engines or launch new ones.


There are a few ways that engines can be upgraded. One common approach is the downsizing in displacement and cylinders in exchange for turbocharging or supercharging. This often does achieve the better fuel economy that the engine was designed for, as well as the power of a larger engine. However, the power delivery of a naturally aspirated engine and a turbocharged engine vary drastically. Many turbocharged engines have turbo-lag or a delay between driver input and engine response. This is because some larger turbos take time to spool up before providing their forced induction. Turbochargers can be expensive too, and the customer is likely the one who has to pay for it. 


The best modern engines are the new naturally aspirated ones. A naturally aspirated engine provides the direct response and the better power curve then a turbo does. In high performance automobiles, the most power is made at the higher rpms. While slightly impractical, this is very fun. In other cars, the power is more accessible while being more linear and responsive than a forced induction. 


While offering a better driver experience, naturally aspirated engines can be efficient too. Many automakers have improved their "NA" engines rather than going forced induction. Automakers use technologies like direct injection, variable-valve timing, and cylinder deactivation. Most importantly though is that these features add horsepower and torque. In some cases, automakers can downsize displacement while maintaining similar power and getting better fuel efficiency. Porsche has done just that with their 991 Carrera base model, moving from a 3.6 liter 6 cylinder to a 3.4 liter while producing nearly identical power and raising efficiency.   Mercedes with their new 3.5 liter V-6 maintained displacement, but made it more powerful by 34 horsepower, and more efficient. Technology has allowed manufacturers to provide engine enhancements without sacrificing performance. 

The Popularity of Personalization

Today, exclusivity is being taken to a whole new level. While only very few can afford to purchase a 6-figure car, many of those discerning individuals ask for an extremely custom product. Bespoke personalization lines are now becoming increasingly popular among premium manufacturers and consumers alike.

There is one primary reason why automakers like to offer personalization programs. Not surprisingly, automakers make a lot of money on these extra and exclusive items. Manufacturers can warrant charging a fortune on these special items as they are not mass produced, but instead personalized for the owner. The difference in production costs and the price the consumer pays is even larger than what is seen on the "standard" option list. This additional profit from customer options is even more important to brands with limited vehicle output. 


Buyers love these personalization programs too. Customers want to have a car that is unique to them which fits their taste and lifestyle. For the ultra-premium brands, pretty much anything the customer desires can be done. It is not uncommon to get any color or combination of colors one, wants both exterior and interior. Many buyers are having their name engraved into the door sill plates or head rest. Some even are encrusting fixtures in carbon fiber, gold, or diamond. In some cases hardware has been added or changed. The possibilities are endless. And all of this comes right from the factory so it is seamlessly integrated. 


Take rates for exclusive options has never been higher. For instance, over 90% of Rolls-Royce Phantom orders are through their bespoke program. It is not just the exotic automakers offering this, albeit others are to a lesser extent. Programs like BMW Individual and Porsche Exclusive offer a similar concept while providing the same benefits for both parties. For money, anything can be done!

Maserati: Moving Mainstream?

Since the resurrection of Maserati in the United States in 2002, the Company has been known for their exclusive Italian GT cars. In late 2004, Maserati sought to appeal to broader group of customers with the Quattroporte. Despite this product expansion, Maserati remained a "boutique" automaker. While "boutique" automakers do have their limitations, there are many advantages. 

Due to their smaller production scale, these companies produce vehicles that are not seen often on the road. This allows customers to own a special product that is uncommon. Additionally, these vehicles are usually more customizable. Most importantly though, some smaller automakers like Maserati can establish a closer connection with their customers as there simply are not that many of them. This allows Maserati to address all customer concerns more accurately as well as offering clients exclusive perks. 

However, all of this could be potentially jeopardized. Fiat, Maserati's owner, is looking to expand sales from under 10,000 cars per year to nearly 50,000! In the next few years there will be a Quattroporte replacement, a sedan slotting below the Quattroporte, the Kubang SUV and potentially more. With this huge increase in volume, all of the characteristics that have made Maserati so unique could be gone. Hopefully, not too many Fiat Group parts will be used in the car which would further mainstream the brand. One of Maserati's main selling points is exclusivity. With this key element going away soon, Maserati needs to make sure that they differentiate themselves enough so as not to be just another ubiquitous BMW, Mercedes  or Audi competitor.