Sometimes news stories fly under the radar, which is certainly the case for this year’s Toronto-based Infiniti Lab, an accelerator program created for growing companies focused on Internet of Things…

Infiniti Lab an innovative idea for assisting useful new tech startups

Infiniti Lab Toronto
Infiniti Lab Toronto focused on startups creating Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and smart city initiatives. (Photo: Infiniti)

Sometimes news stories fly under the radar, which is certainly the case for this year’s Toronto-based Infiniti Lab, an accelerator program created for growing companies focused on Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and smart city initiatives.

The first Infiniti Lab was launched in the company’s global home base of Hong Kong two years ago, which makes its choice to follow that program up in Canada’s largest city quite the national compliment, while many of the startups chosen for the program could definitely improve life for people across Canada and the world.

Infiniti Lab Toronto
The successful Infiniti Lab Hong Kong proved as a testbed for the new Toronto program. (Photo: Infiniti)

The Toronto lab was a first for North America as well as the first such initiative launched by an automotive manufacturer in Canada.

“We chose Toronto as the first North American launch of Infiniti Lab because of its role as an IoT hub, and now we’re excited to see what the companies in our Toronto program can do on the global stage,” said Dane Fisher, General Manager of Global Business Transformation for Infiniti Motors.

Infiniti Lab Toronto
Most of the startups chosen aided drivers, but some had nothing to do with anything automotive. (Photo: Infiniti)

To make sure the Canadian program succeeded, Infiniti partnered with Toronto-based nonprofit Multiplicity, a group that already provided education and mentoring to startups.

“Canada is brimming with talent and opportunity when it comes to startups, and Infiniti Canada is proud to help accelerate the country’s next entrepreneurial stars,” said Stephen Lester, managing director of Infiniti Canada. “Multiplicity is the ideal partner for the launch of Infiniti Lab Toronto. Parallel to Infiniti, they do not wait for change to come to them, they are the change. They drive the ideas that will make a tangible difference to our daily lives.”

Rover Parking
Rover Parking, a shared parking app, earned the opportunity to continue the mentorship on a three-month program in Hong Kong. (Photo: Rover Parking)

A total of nine Internet of Things (IoT) and/or smart-city initiative startups were chosen mid-year, including DRVEN (connected cars and smartphones), InnerSpace (indoor mapping), NXCAR (connected vehicle safety), Pitstop Predictive Maintenance (virtual technician), Pull Technologies (contacts on IoT), RoadLaunch (shipment management), Rover Parking (shared parking), Tap Report (inspection tracking), and Ubiqweus Inc. (data sharing).

The companies were able to work with corporate and industry partners such as Techstars, OMERS Ventures, TELUS Ventures, the City of Toronto, and Fleet Company, all of which provided participants with access to technology, mentorship, and education throughout the month-long program.

RoadLaunch
RoadLaunch is an app for commercial shipment management. (Photo: RoadLaunch)

Infiniti Lab Toronto culminated in a demo day, where participating startups pitched their companies to a panel of Canada’s top venture capital firms. Rover Parking, a shared parking marketplace that lets users access available parking spaces throughout the city by smartphone, took top honours at the event, and was therefore fast-tracked into a further three-month program in Hong Kong that launched in July.

“Rover Parking came out on top because of the potential they have to use IoT to change our cities, and the impact we believe they can have as part of the Hong Kong program,” added Fisher.

NXCAR
NXCAR offers an app for connected vehicle safety. (Photo: NXCAR)

“We partnered with Infiniti to bring this program to fruition because we fully align with their focus on innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Chris Kay, co-founder, Multiplicity. “Infiniti Lab has produced two cohorts of IoT innovators in Hong Kong, and the Toronto program presents a huge opportunity for local founders who want to get noticed on the global stage.”

Pitstop Predictive Maintenance
Pitstop Predictive Maintenance provides a virtual technician app. (Photo: Pitstop Predictive Maintenance)

Some key startups benefiting from the Infiniti Lab Hong Kong program include Kraftwerk, a company that developed a breakthrough low cost, lightweight fuel cell; Drop.ai, a visual intelligence startup responsible for software that helps cars and drones make decisions through contextualized video and artificial intelligence; and Dagmy Motors, which helps lower the production cost of batteries and therefore the cost of electric vehicles.

Rover Parking, now dubbed the “Airbnb of parking,” is enjoying success in Toronto thanks to an innovative idea that’s been developed more fully through the Infiniti Lab program. Hopefully it will find its way to other cities in Canada and throughout the world.

For more about the Infiniti Lab program, check out this short video:

 

To most of us, the thought of owning a new Acura NSX is enough of a dream, but the Japanese premium brand nevertheless arrived at last month’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las…

ScienceofSpeed Dream Project makes stunning NSX supercar even more sensational

2017 Acura NSX ScienceofSpeed Dream Project
The second-gen Acura NSX “Dream Project” by ScienceofSpeed features plenty of powertrain, suspension and styling upgrades. (Photo: Acura)

To most of us, the thought of owning a new Acura NSX is enough of a dream, but the Japanese premium brand nevertheless arrived at last month’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, Nevada with something even more alluring than the stock road-going supercar.

Say hello to the NSX “Dream Project,” the second ScienceofSpeed creation in as many years. The first was a gorgeous NSX GT3 racecar with hybrid parts removed, sitting atop a customized trailer that was pulled behind a modded MDX in the same decaled white livery the team uses on the track. Now the colour has changed to a deep glimmering blue and the powertrain’s hybrid guts remain intact, this dream meant for the road.

2017 Acura NSX ScienceofSpeed Dream Project
A massive CFRP pedestal wing sits atop the rear deck lid, while additional aero bits can be found all around this modded NSX. (Photo: Acura)

Acura worked together with Arizona-based ScienceofSpeed for this year’s Dream Project, this NSX GT3 more of a race replica that future owners can hopefully bring home. The result is a lighter, better handling, quicker, more potent NSX with much more downforce thanks to extensive aero upgrades.

Reference other sports cars wearing the GT3 subset and you’ll see plenty of wings and NACA ducts, all designed to benefit traction at high speed, so why should this NSX be any different. The ScienceofSpeed kit includes front side strakes, extended rocker panels with radical ducting, a supersized pedestal-style rear wing (albeit smaller than on last year’s car), and a larger, deeper rear diffuser, the latter highlighted with red painted fins.

2017 Acura NSX ScienceofSpeed Dream Project
Big Advan GT forged rims around Pirelli Trofeo R rubber frame gold powder-coated carbon-ceramic Brembo brakes. (Photo: Acura)

Speaking of colour, the grey and red side stripes with artfully scripted “Dream Project” signage below chunkier “NSX” lettering, almost go unnoticed next to the fabulous five-spoke Advan GT forged rims on Pirelli Trofeo R rubber that frame equally eye-grabbing gold powder-coated carbon-ceramic Brembo brakes.

Carbon in mind, there’s no shortage of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) elsewhere, all of the aforementioned aero add-ons wearing its glossy woven fibres proudly next to yet more red highlights, while the roof gets painted a glossy black and that beautiful blue paintwork mentioned earlier finishes off the exterior aesthetics, the latter a two-tone mix dubbed Andaro Nouvelle Blue Pearl.

2017 Acura NSX ScienceofSpeed Dream Project
Recaro Pole Position seats keep driver and passenger firmly in place while a gaugeART OLED display provides key car info. (Photo: Acura)

Inside, Recaro Pole Position seats keep driver and passenger firmly in place while a gaugeART OLED display adds ancillary information, important given the power unit gains 37 horsepower for a new max of 610, plus an additional 31 lb-ft of torque resulting in 507 foot pounds.

ScienceofSpeed shaved 7.2 kilos (16 pounds) from the NSX Dream Project’s curb weight by replacing the stock exhaust with a lightweight stainless unit, while reworked suspension geometry drops the car by an inch. Those with steep driveways or need to overcome speed bumps needn’t worry about scuffing all the added ground effects either, as an iLIFT was added to the front suspension to automatically raise the body up two inches if it senses obstacles in its path.

Acura NSX GT3 race car
This race-winning Acura NSX GT3 race car was on display as well. (Photo: Acura)

The NSX ScienceofSpeed Dream Project wasn’t the only car on Acura’s SEMA stage, the theme focused on motorsport thanks to a race-winning Acura NSX GT3, which had just completed its inaugural season with two teams competing in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship series as well as the Pirelli World Challenge series, achieving four podiums and three victories.

Even more noticeable, the ARX-05 (Acura Racing eXperimental, generation 5) Daytona Prototype points the Japanese premium brand back to prototype racing, the first event to be the Rolex 24 at Daytona in January next year. Team Penske, legendary in motorsport circles, will campaign two cars in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, while a who’s who list of winning drivers includes Juan Pablo Montoya, Helio Castoneves, Graham Rahal, Dane Cameron, Ricky Taylor and Simon Pagenaud.

Acura Acura ARX-05 Daytona Prototype
It’s easy to appreciate why Acura’s ARX-05 Daytona Prototype might garner plenty of attention. (Photo: Acura)

Also on hand, the Pikes Peak Acura TLX A-Spec won its Exhibition Class at its Pikes Peak debut earlier this year, its 500 horsepower 3.5-litre V6 pushing the car up the heroic cliff-side track to its 14,115-foot summit in just 11:03.655, with Pikes Peak veteran and engineer Nick Robinson at the wheel.

If you think that was fast, newcomer Peter Cunningham set a new Open Class record at the wheel of the Pikes Peak Acura TLX GT this year, his time of 9:33.797 earning second overall as well as “Rookie of the Year” honours.

Acura TLX A Spec Pikes Peak
There was no shortage of Pikes Peak hillclimb cars on hand for the SEMA event. (Photo: Acura)

Lastly, the Pikes Peak GT3-inspired Acura NSX split the difference with a 10:03.433 time over the 21-kilometre (13-mile) course, with Acura’s in-house North American R&D powertrain development group member James Robinson placing third in the competitive Time Attack 1 class. Robinson won the class in a first-generation NSX in 2011, and has charged up Pike Peak’s death-defying 2,289 vertical metres (7,510 vertical feet) in an NSX every year since.

“Motorsports has been an integral part of the Acura brand since our founding,” said Jon Ikeda, Vice President and General Manager of Acura. “We have had some tremendous success this past year and are looking forward to our return to prototype racing with Team Penske in 2018.”

With 2017 coming to a close, we’re taking a look at some of the year’s more intriguing concepts, with a sharper focus on those that have a better chance of being produced than the whimsical dream…

Infiniti Project Black S: A concept or a prototype headed for production?

2017 Infiniti Project Black S Concept
Is the Project Black S a concept or potential reality? (Photo: Infiniti)

With 2017 coming to a close, we’re taking a look at some of the year’s more intriguing concepts, with a sharper focus on those that have a better chance of being produced than the whimsical dream cars that more often than not fill the front pages of buff magazines.

Infiniti’s Project Black S fits that bill to a T. And it doesn’t hurt that it’s based on a car already in existence, the beautiful and formidable Q60 Red Sport 400.

The Project Black S first hit the stage at the 2017 Geneva auto show earlier this year, with a matte grey paint job plus stunning gloss black and yellow highlights that paid homage to the Renault Sport Formula One team.

2017 Infiniti Project Black S Concept
The Project Black S explores the potential for a new Infiniti high-performance model line. (Photo: Infiniti)

F1 fans will know that Infiniti is a Renault Sport Formula One team sponsor, its branding prominently displayed on each side of the race car’s cowl induction unit (the big air scoop above the driver’s head—in Renault’s case Nico Hülkenberg and Carlos Sainz Jr.). Along with sponsorship, Infiniti also confirms it contributes “knowledge in hybrid technology and additional engineering resources” to the Renault Sport Formula One initiative.

Readers well versed in the automotive industry will also know that Infiniti is the luxury division of Nissan, and that Nissan is part of a three-brand Franco-Japanese strategic partnership known as the Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance (Renault–Nissan having purchased a controlling stake in Mitsubishi last year), this group responsible for one out of every 10 cars sold worldwide.

2017 Infiniti Project Black S Concept
The Q60 Project Black S looks right at home on the track. (Photo: Infiniti)

With that backgrounder out of the way, the Renault Sport Formula One-inspired Infiniti Project Black S makes a great deal of sense, especially after appreciating just how much F1 technology gets infused within this proposed road car’s power unit.

“Power unit” is the appropriate term, because the direct-injected and twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 borrowed from Infiniti’s Q50 and Q60 Red Sport 400 models gets an electrified power boost that goes beyond any hybrid ever seen on public roads, unless we’re talking single weekends each year in Sochi, Monte Carlo, Montreal (between the Pavillon du Canada and the Cosmos Bridge), Baku, and Singapore—street races on the F1 calendar.

2017 Infiniti Project Black S Concept
Shown here making its Canadian debut, Infiniti’s Project Black S concept was on display next to a Renault Sport Formula One car and production Q60 Red Sport 400 during the 2017 Formula One Canada Grand Prix in Montreal. (Photo: Infiniti)

“Infiniti is leading the way with innovative new powertrain technology for consumers, such as the award-winning 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, and VC-Turbo, the world’s first production-ready variable compression ratio engine,” said Francois Bancon, Vice President, Global Product Strategy, Infiniti. “With Project Black S, we are looking at how a unique performance hybrid energy recovery system could be adapted from Formula One for use on the road.”

Certainly the Q50 Hybrid and Q70 Hybrid sedans offer a considerable performance advantage over their base counterparts, thanks to 360 net-horsepower from a 3.5-litre V6 and 50kW electric motor combination, but the Project Black S not only utilizes the much more advanced VR30DDTT engine noted above, its “instant, significant, lag-free acceleration” comes via a dual-hybrid heat energy recovery technology unique to Formula One, increasing the Red Sport 400’s peak output by 25 percent to a whopping 500 horsepower.

Renault Sport Formula One RS17
The Renault Sport F1 Team RS17 engine cover, shows the Infiniti name and logo prominently displayed. (Renault)

Breaking down the tech, most hybrid cars, like the Q50 Hybrid and Q70 Hybrid, utilize some form of regenerative braking system, which redirects kinetic energy from brake friction to a battery normally used for running ancillary features. This is similar to a Formula One car’s MGU-K unit, MGU standing for motor generator unit, and K for kinetic. The Renault Sport Formula One car’s MGU-K unit regenerates kinetic energy from braking and feeds it into a high-rate discharge lithium-ion battery used in turn to spin the engine’s crankshaft and exhaust turbocharger’s turbine blades quicker, resulting in more power. The second part of an F1 car’s dual-hybrid system is an MGU-H unit that harvests “heat” energy from exhaust gases to do the same thing as the MGU-K, more or less doubling the energy fed into the battery and subsequently the crank and twin turbines.

Renault Sport Formula One RS17
Renault Sport Formula One driver Nico Hulkenberg (GER) at the wheel of the RS17 during the first day of 2017 season testing in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo: Renault)

The MGU-H is much lauded by forward thinking tech devotees albeit somewhat loathed by F1 fans, as it’s a common cause of power unit failures. Of course, the Project Black S road car’s internal combustion engine is nearly twice the size of the F1 car’s 1.6-litre V6, while it’s certainly not asked to rev to 15,000 rpm in order to make upwards of 870 horsepower, so therefore it’s nowhere near as stressed and should theoretically be easier to achieve reliability.

This said the MGU-H has never been used in a production car before, and therefore if Infiniti were to build something along the lines of the Project Black S it would be an industry first. That F1 rivals Mercedes and Ferrari haven’t done so already is testament to the difficulty of the task, but considering that the ERS’ (energy recovery system’s) raison d’être in F1 is a form of road car relevance, necessary to attract big name engine builders like the Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance (and Infiniti), integrating the MGU-H portion of the equation into a production vehicle is not only fitting, but important.

2017 Infiniti Project Black S Concept
The 2017 Infiniti Project Black S Concept shown track testing its F1-inspired dual-hybrid power unit plus upgraded bodywork and suspension. (Photo: Infiniti)

As part of the Renault Sport Formula One team’s motorsport technology transference, Project Black S also sheds curb weight from extensive use of carbon-fibre, which is nothing new to both motorsport and performance road cars. F1 cars are mostly made from advanced composite materials, whereas the Project Black S uses carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) for its large reshaped front splitter, rear diffuser, fenders and side skirts, “while ultra-thin aero ‘blades’ in the side sills ahead of the rear wheels channel air around the lower body of the car.” The sizeable rear wing, designed to increase rear downforce at speed, is also made from CFRP.

There’s function to all the new forms too. The large frontal air intakes effectively channel cooling air into the engine compartment and onto the brakes, while new hood vents allow heat to escape. The Project Black S’ rear body panels are shaped to allow circulating air to flow away from the car as quickly and efficiently as possible, enhanced by vertical aero foils as well as the aforementioned rear wing.

2017 Infiniti Project Black S Concept
The Project Black S Concept makes extensive use of lightweight carbon-fibre. (Photo: Infiniti)

Along with all the lightweight CFRP components, a set of forged 21-inch aluminum wheels also reduces weight while providing a larger contact patch to improve mechanical grip from wider, lower profile performance tires. Additionally, modified chassis settings improve high-speed stability and overall handling, while a high-performance titanium twin exhaust system increases flow and reduces yet more weight. These items, plus all of its tastefully applied aero elements penned by Infiniti’s Paddington studio in London, England, combined with the already beautiful new Q60 sports coupe, have resulted in a sensational looking road-going prospect.

“Project Black S is a daring and elevated representation of Infiniti’s performance DNA,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Executive Design Director, Infiniti. “It expresses our desire to create cars that are designed to perform, marrying the potency of a high-performance powertrain with a muscular new design. This project has given us the opportunity to experiment with advanced materials to create a performance-inspired aesthetic that draws on Infiniti’s motorsport ties through the Alliance.”

2017 Infiniti Project Black S Concept
Most body panels have been redesigned using lightweight CFRP, the hood also incorporating ventilation needed for cooling. (Photo: Infiniti)

Despite rolling on a modified Q60 Red Sport 400, Project Black S seemed more concept than reality when unveiled at Geneva in March, but when reintroduced at the Montreal Grand Prix in June, together with exclusive F1 tire supplier Pirelli, which came on as a new Project Black S partner responsible for supplying specially designed and constructed bespoke performance tires, its road-going prospects brightened.

Pirelli announced its intention of supplying the Project Black S with a unique set of P Zero performance tires, from the brand’s F1-inspired Coloured Edition. F1 uses bright colour markings on its tire sidewalls in order to let fans and FIA (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile) marshals (the sport’s governing body) know which tires they’re running (tire use is regulated during each race), the 2018 “Pirelli Rainbow” tire lineup including Super hard (orange), Hard (light blue), Medium (white), Soft (yellow), Supersoft (red), Ultrasoft (purple), Hypersoft (pastel pink), Intermediate (green – used for light rain), Wet (blue – used for heavier rain), and now Pirelli has capitalized on this by offering road car customers hundreds of tire colour options to match their vehicles.

2017 Infiniti Project Black S Concept
The wheels are lightweight forged aluminum alloys, while extra cooling vents have been added to the reformed CFRP fenders. (Photo: Infiniti)

“We are very excited about our ‘Project Black S’ and the work we are doing with Renault Sport Formula One Team on performance hybrid technology,” said Tommaso Volpe, Director of Infiniti Global Motorsport. “Having another key Formula One player involved is proof of the interest it generates and will add even more focus on performance delivery. As we explore the feasibility of ‘Project Black S,’ Pirelli’s input and knowledge – both motorsport and automotive – will be invaluable. We couldn’t be happier to have them onboard.”

To be clear, Project Black S has been touted as a possible production car from its onset, with the initial Geneva press release stating the car “explores the potential for a new Infiniti performance grade” that Infiniti hoped would help “gauge potential interest in high-performance derivatives of Infiniti cars.”

2017 Infiniti Project Black S Concept
That’s one serious rear wing, also carbon-fibre of course. (Photo: Infiniti)

“We were fascinated with ‘Project Black S’ since Infiniti unveiled it at the Geneva motor show earlier this year,” added Paul Hembery, Motorsport Director for Pirelli. “We simply had to get involved. ‘Project Black S’ is the ultimate expression of innovation and cutting-edge technology transfer, which is in our DNA, so we couldn’t let this opportunity go by. We are thrilled to be a part of it and to support Infiniti on this project.”

Does this mean a Project Black S-like Infiniti Q60 is destined for future production? Let’s say a dual-hybrid KERS motivated road car is more likely than the GT-R-powered Eau Rouge, which came too close to treading on Godzilla’s tracks. As it is, racing (and hopefully one day winning) on Sunday and selling on Monday is right up Infiniti’s alley, and no doubt Renault–Nissan would love to recoup some of the substantial F1 investment more directly than the global brand recognition it’s currently receiving. Only time will tell if a production version is imminent, but either way the Infiniti Q60 Project Black S is a concept car with a very interesting ongoing story.

For more, check out the gallery above, as well as the following video of its Geneva motor show introduction by Roland Krueger, President Infiniti Motor Company, and Jérôme Stoll, President Renault Sport Racing:

 

Jaguar has already proven it’s fully capable of producing a sport utility vehicle worthy of pulling eyeballs as it runs rings around much of the competition, but the impressive F-Pace is on the large…

New Jaguar E-Pace compact SUV promises big performance

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The 2018 Jaguar E-Pace compact SUV certainly has styling on its side. (Photo: Jaguar)

Jaguar has already proven it’s fully capable of producing a sport utility vehicle worthy of pulling eyeballs as it runs rings around much of the competition, but the impressive F-Pace is on the large side of compact, leaving lots of room below for a smaller, more affordable entry-level SUV to conquest upwardly mobile buyers entering the luxury realms. So, say hello to the new E-Pace, the subcompact premium SUV segment’s newest arrival.

Speaking of pulling eyeballs, stunt driver Terry Grant did just that in a new E-Pace as he performed a Guinness World Record setting 15-metre (50-foot) 270-degree “barrel roll” jump for the SUV’s global reveal at the London ExCel Centre (see photo gallery above and video below).

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The 2018 E-Pace with stunt driver Terry Grant behind the wheel set a new Guinness World Record for longest barrel roll during its global launch. (Photo: Jaguar)

As you might have expected, such handling chops were procured from a modified version of Jaguar Land Rover’s “D8” platform architecture, which already supports the similarly sized Range Rover Evoque and considerably larger Land Rover Discovery Sport.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The E-Pace looks good standing still too. (Photo: Jaguar)

To be clear, the new E-Pace measures 4,395 millimetres (173.0 inches) long, 1,984 mm (78.1 inches) wide with the side mirrors folded, 2,088 mm (82.2 inches) wide with those mirrors extended, 1,649 mm (64.9 inches) tall, and rides on a 2,681-mm (105.6-inch) wheelbase. That makes it 24 mm (0.9 inches) longer than the Evoque with a 21-mm (0.8-inch) longer wheelbase, as well as 84 mm (3.3 inches) wider and 14 mm (0.5 inches) taller than Range Rover’s smallest, while it’s 195 mm (7.7 inches) shorter than the Discovery Sport with a 60-mm (2.3-inch) shorter wheelbase, plus 85 mm (3.3 inches) narrower and 75 mm (2.9 inches) closer to the ground—and we’re not talking ground clearance which measures a considerable 204 mm (8.0 inches).

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The E-Pace is only fractionally larger than the Range Rover Evoque. (Photo: Jaguar)

Likewise, the E-Pace can haul up to 577 litres (20.4 cubic feet) of cargo under the cargo cover behind its rear seatbacks, which makes it two litres (0.1 cubic feet) more accommodating than the Evoque and 349 litres (12.3 cubic feet) less so than the Discovery Sport. The E-Pace has 685 litres (24.2 cubic feet) of cargo space when including the area above the cargo cover, while if you fold its 60/40-split rear seatbacks down it can manage up to 1,487 litres (52.5 cubic feet) of gear, which once again is exactly two litres (0.1 cubic feet) more than the Evoque albeit 407 litres (14.4 cubic feet) less than the Disco Sport. In other words, the E-Pace is more squarely in the subcompact luxury SUV camp than the compact, which is exactly where Jaguar needs it.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The E-Pace promises strong performance from both of its four-cylinder turbocharged engines. (Photo: Jaguar)

While the E-Pace shares some architectural underpinnings with the Evoque, the rear suspensions are totally unique. Due to Jaguar’s on-road performance demands, the E-Pace incorporates a downsized version of the F-Pace’ rear suspension design, while aluminum steering knuckles and aluminum front suspension components improve geometry while lowering unsprung weight. Specifically, the E-Pace uses a McPherson strut front suspension with lower control arms, coil springs, passive shock absorbers, and a passive anti-roll bar, plus an integral multi-link rear setup with coil springs, passive dampers and a passive anti-roll bar.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
Lightweight aluminum in the unique E-Pace suspension aids handling. (Photo: Jaguar)

Additionally, the electric rack and pinion steering system has been solidly mounted to the SUV for increased feel. That said the E-Pace is less aluminum-intensive as the rest of Jaguar’s lineup, although the fenders and tailgate are formed from the lightweight metal in order to reduce its curb weight to a manageable 1,893 kilograms (4,173 pounds), which is still quite considerable for such a small vehicle.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
With up to 296-hp available, most subcompact luxury SUV competitors will be seeing the tail end of the E-Pace more often than not. (Photo: Jaguar)

Still, the new E-Pace should be one of the subcompact luxury SUV segment’s more exhilarating performers. For starters, the transverse-mounted base 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium engine in the E-Pace P250 AWD model makes 246 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque from only 1,200 rpm, whereas the even sportier R-Dynamic P300 AWD variant uses the 296-horsepower version of the same mill that’s capable of 295 lb-ft of torque from just 1,500 rpm, both mated to a state-of-the-art ZF-sourced nine-speed automatic transmission with optional paddle shifters. Jaguar promises 7.0 seconds to 100km/h and a top speed of 230-km/h in the base model, and a more energetic 6.4 seconds to the 100km/h mark along with a higher 243 km/h terminal velocity in the R-Dynamic, which is formidable performance for the class.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
Fuel economy should be an E-Pace strong point. (Photo: Jaguar)

Of note, Jaguar’s internal fuel economy tests of the base 246 horsepower E-Pace resulted in 10.2 L/100km in the city and 8.4 on the highway, though take heed no official fuel economy results have been announced.

No doubt the E-Pace’ sleek styling helps to minimize drag and commensurately reduce fuel economy, some of its design cues even taken from the revered F-Type sports car, particularly its sweptback headlight clusters. Its taillights are wholly unique, however, and promised to be Jaguar signatures in the future.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The E-Pace’ headlights were inspired by the F-Type. (Photo: Jaguar)

Likewise, the E-Pace more closely resembles the F-Type inside thanks to a dual-cockpit front seat layout divided by a wrap-around centre console featuring a prominent flying buttress-style leather-wrapped grab handle on the passenger side, the lower console completed by a regular shift lever rather than Jaguar’s usual rotating dial selector. A large 8.3-litre storage area between the two front seats makes sure a practical element is included in the emotive design.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The E-Pace interior shares a number of F-Type design cues as well. (Photo: Jaguar)

The driver and front passenger aren’t the only pampered occupants, because the rear seating area appears nicely finished and roomy, while the E-Pace promises to lead competitors in connectivity with up to five USB outlets, four 12-volt sockets, and 4G WiFi that’s capable of supporting up to eight devices, the latter standard on all trim levels above base.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The cockpit is very driver-centric. (Photo: Jaguar)

With a base MSRP of $42,700 plus freight and fees the E-Pace won’t be the most affordable subcompact SUV in its class, but it won’t be lacking features either thanks to standard all-wheel drive, a continuously variable semi-active suspension featuring both passive and adaptive dampers, and braking system-based torque vectoring to aid handling by dragging the inside wheels during turns to increase vehicle rotation and reduce understeer.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
Jaguar promises class-leading infotainment and connectivity. (Photo: Jaguar)

Additional standard features include auto on/off LED headlamps, 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, branded metal treadplates, pushbutton ignition, an electromechanical parking brake, heated power-adjustable side mirrors, a colour multi-information display within the gauge cluster, JaguarDrive dynamic mode selection with four settings including Normal, Dynamic, Eco, and Rain/Ice/Snow that alters throttle response, transmission shift points, climate control efficiency and more, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone auto climate control, 10-inch TouchPro touchscreen infotainment with tablet-style swipe, pinch and zoom gestures, voice activation, a rearview camera, six-speaker 125-watt audio, plus front and rear parking sensors.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The E-Pace centre console looks surprisingly similar to the F-Type’s. (Photo: Jaguar)

The base E-Pace includes all the expected passive and active safety equipment too, as well as and plenty of advanced driver assistance systems like semiautonomous low-speed cruise control that automatically adjusts engine and brake settings to help drivers maintain control on slippery surfaces, autonomous emergency braking from 5 km/h to 80 km/h for frontal collisions and 5 km/h to 60 km/h for pedestrians, lane keeping assist, All Surface Progress Control, Hill Launch Assist, a Driver Condition Monitor that sounds an alert if the driver is getting drowsy, plus more.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
Standard and optional features are plentiful. (Photo: Jaguar)

The base E-Pace can be upgraded with S and SE option packages too, the former priced at $45,200 and adding unique nine-spoke 18-inch alloys, signature LED daytime running lights on the lower edges of each headlamp, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, auto-dimming and power-folding side mirrors with integrated approach lamps, power-adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, a rear centre armrest, upgraded Navigation Pro infotainment, a Smartphone package and a Connect Pro package, plus a Park package featuring a 360-degree parking monitor and semi-autonomous Park Assist, while the latter $48,200 SE boasts everything from the S as well as a different set of 10-spoke 19-inch alloys, larger 350-mm front brakes, auto high beams, an 11-speaker 380-watt Meridian audio system, a powered liftgate, and a Drive package featuring adaptive cruise control with Queue Assist, high-speed emergency braking, and blindspot monitoring.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
R-Dynamic models get unique styling and improved driving dynamics. (Photo: Jaguar)

Along with the extra engine performance, the $51,000 E-Pace R-Dynamic adds an Active Driveline system incorporating an electronic rear differential with wet-plate clutches that send power rear-to-front (with up to 100-percent to the front for improved fuel economy, and a return to AWD in only 0.3 seconds), side-to-side, and even to a single wheel if required for improved traction and/or handling, plus a unique front fascia design with a gloss black grille insert, deeper air intakes at the corners, body-coloured side sills, a lower rear bumper with a gloss black valence, satin chrome exterior trim, 18-inch five-spoke alloys, paddle shifters behind the spokes of a special R-Dynamic branded leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, bright metal pedals, 10-way powered front seats, sport seats with unique leather upholstery, standard navigation, yet more advanced driver assist systems, and most of the features included with the previous S package as standard.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
Dual exhaust is standard. (Photo: Jaguar)

The R-Dynamic can also be had in $54,000 SE and $57,300 HSE trims, the former adding unique five-spoke 19-inch alloys, 14-way powered front seats with memory, and similar features to the previously noted SE package, while HSE trim includes twinned five-spoke 20-inch alloys, proximity-sensing keyless access with a gesture activated liftgate, 18-way powered front seats with heat and memory, and perforated Windsor leather upholstery with contrast stitching.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The E-Pace’ design details give it a truly sporty look. (Photo: Jaguar)

Lastly, the $59,000 E-Pace First Edition provides unique design treatments such as Caldera Red paint, a Black Exterior Package, and satin grey-finish 20-inch twin-spoke alloys outside, plus Ebony Windsor leather upholstery with Flame Red contrast stitching, an Ebony Suedecloth headliner, and special floor mats printed in a jaguar fur pattern, plus the same pattern found on the shoulder-height seat tags on the inside, while it also includes a standard fixed panoramic sunroof and everything featured in the R-Dynamic HSE as well as Land Rover’s new Activity Key wristband that lets you leave your keys in the car while going on a hike, skiing, hitting the beach, or doing some other kind of activity that might potentially make finding lost keys impossible.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
These slender LED taillights are unique to the E-Pace. (Photo: Jaguar)

The First Edition is available in Santorini Black and Yulong White as well for an extra $670, but that’s it for colour options, whereas the R-Dynamic comes standard in Fuji White instead of Caldera Red and can also be had in Corris Grey, Indus Silver, Firenze Red, Caesium Blue, and Borasco Grey for $670, plus Farallon Black and Silicon Silver for $1,640 (or $1,430 in R-Dynamic SE trim).

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
This Jaguar and its cub run along the base of the windshield, reminding that the E-Pace is ideal for young families. (Photo: Jaguar)

The Black Exterior package costs an extra $260 if you want it, while the standard Grain Leather sport seats can be had in Ebony with Light Oyster beige stitching, Ebony with Reims blue stitching, and Light Oyster beige with Ebony stitching at no charge, or higher grade Windsor leather in Ebony/Oyster, Oyster/Oyster, Mars Red/Ebony, Ebony/Eclipse blue, and Siena Tan/Ebony for $1,980. The headliner can be had in Ebony or Oyster at no charge or the aforementioned Ebony Suedecloth for $1,020.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The optional puddle lamps display the Jaguar and cub graphic on the ground. (Photo: Jaguar)

Additionally, the 380-watt Meridian audio upgrade can be had for $410 and an even more potent 15-speaker 825-watt version for $1,230 (or $820 in the SE and HSE). Additionally, a 12.3-inch fully configurable colour HD Interactive Driver Display virtual gauge cluster can be added for a mere $570, while a head-up display system will project vital info such as vehicle speed, entertainment functions, adaptive cruise control settings, plus alerts for the optional blindspot monitor and lane departure warning on the windshield for $1,020.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The E-Pace’ optional fixed panoramic sunroof is massive. (Photo: Jaguar)

Of course there’s more depending on trim, an $820 Cold Climate package ($670 in R-Dynamic trims) adding a heatable windshield, heated washer jets, and a heatable steering wheel, and a $970 Drive package featuring adaptive cruise control with Queue Assist, high-speed emergency braking, and blindspot assist, while many of the features found in upper trims can be had individually, such as proximity access for $620, the activity key for $410, bright metal pedals for $260, auto high beams for $260, ambient interior lighting for $360, a universal garage door opener for $260, the 360-degree surround parking monitor for $360, satellite and HD radio for $510, heated rear seats for $1,020, a fixed panoramic sunroof for $1,180, the powered liftgate for $360, the liftgate with gesture control for $460 (or $110 with the SE), Configurable Dynamics that let you personalize the JaguarDrive dynamic modes via the touchscreen, for $360, adaptive dynamics for $1,020, loads of wheels from 19 to 21 inches in diameter for $510 to $3,670, plus more.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The E-Pace has no shortage of optional wheel designs. (Photo: Jaguar)

The E-Pace will soon go up against its own sibling Range Rover Evoque as well as the segment bestselling Buick Encore, second most popular BMW X1, third-place Mercedes GLA, as well as the Audi Q3, Mini Countryman, and Infiniti QX30, while in short order it will also have the Volvo XC40, Acura CDX, and Lexus UX to deal with. Still, despite the crowded subcompact luxury SUV segment the E-Pace’ attractive styling, exciting performance, advanced engineering, luxurious interior, bevy of standard and optional features, impressive active safety equipment, plus strong value proposition to help it to succeed.

2018 Jaguar E-Pace
The open road beckons with Jaguar’s new 2018 E-Pace. (Photo: Jaguar)

E-Pace models headed for Jaguar Canada showrooms are being built in Graz, Austria by Magna Steyr, the vehicle-assembly division of Canadian auto parts maker Magna International, whereas the majority of Asian markets will receive theirs from Chery Jaguar Land Rover, JLR’s joint venture partnership in Changshu, China.

The E-Pace will be available across Canada starting January 2018. Until then, check out a video of the new E-Pace achieving its Guinness World Record setting 15-metre 270-degree “barrel roll” jump below:

 

Land Rover and its higher end Range Rover division have been gaining recognition for steadily improving reliability in recent years, their efforts most recently rewarded by a best-in-segment 2017 Strategic…

Range Rover Evoque wins Strategic Vision Total Quality Award

2018 Range Rover Evoque
The Range Rover Evoque Five-Door and Convertible have won Strategic Vision’s 2017 Total Quality Award. (Photo: Land Rover)

Land Rover and its higher end Range Rover division have been gaining recognition for steadily improving reliability in recent years, their efforts most recently rewarded by a best-in-segment 2017 Strategic Vision Total Quality score.

Considering all the premium compact SUVs the Evoque is up against, earning highest marks in the Total Quality Impact (TQI) report’s “Near-Luxury Utility Vehicle Segment” is impressive, the reasons given in the report being the Range Rover SUV’s  “thoughtful engineering, image, exterior workmanship, climate control system, and interior styling, among other factors.”

2018 Range Rover Evoque
The Evoque earned big points with new owners thanks to thoughtful engineering, image, exterior workmanship, climate control, interior styling, etc. (Land Rover)

“In a few short years, the Range Rover Evoque has become a highly regarded luxury vehicle, known for its dramatic design and luxury appointments,” commented Joe Eberhardt, President and CEO, Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC. “To win the Total Quality award confirms that our customers also love it for its features, workmanship and the overall ownership experience.”

Strategic Vision’s 23rd annual TQI study surveyed more than 42,000 new-vehicle buyers between the months of July and December 2016, after 90 days of ownership. These new owners, a quarter of which were millennials, were asked to rate numerous aspects of their purchasing, ownership and driving experiences.

2018 Range Rover Evoque
The Evoque’s luxurious, high-tech interior is very impressive. (Photo: Land Rover)

The Evoque model range includes the Evoque Five-Door and Evoque Convertible. The Convertible is completely unique in its category, combining a luxurious open-top experience with highly capable on- and off-road credentials, while the Five-Door provides a more practical layout yet the same impressive level of premium finishings as well as driving dynamics that are just as sporty.

Range Rover introduced a number of new driver assistance features and upgraded some of the Evoque’s in-car technologies for 2017, including All-Terrain Progress Control, All-Terrain Info Center, InControl Touch Pro and InControl Apps. All of these advanced features carry over to the 2018 model year.

As if Subaru’s redesigned WRX STI and BRZ weren’t enough on their own, Subaru’s performance division has upped the ante for 2018 with two limited edition models. STI, otherwise known as Subaru Tecnica…

Subaru delivers limited edition WRX STI and BRZ performance models for 2018

2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA and BRZ tS
2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA and BRZ tS

As if Subaru’s redesigned WRX STI and BRZ weren’t enough on their own, Subaru’s performance division has upped the ante for 2018 with two limited edition models.

STI, otherwise known as Subaru Tecnica International, Inc., are behind the 2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA and 2018 Subaru BRZ tS upgrades, which include exterior aero and design enhancements, interior styling tweaks, engine mods, weight removal, and revised suspensions.

2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA
The WRX STI Type RA adds styling and aero trim, but more important are its performance upgrades. (Photo: Subaru)

Starting with body modifications, the 2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA gets a mesh grille surrounded by Cherry Blossom Red accents, a new rear bumper cap, a special front under-spoiler, black finished side mirror caps, a roof-mounted shark fin antenna, and STI fender badges, while the interior receives an ultrasuede-wrapped steering wheel, Recaro performance seats featuring red bolsters and stitching up front, an exclusive red ignition button, and a centre console-mounted numbered plaque.

2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA
Both models get a bit of red in the grille and extra aero bodywork. (Photo: Subaru)

Ahead of the firewall, the 2.5-litre turbocharged boxer four-cylinder gets a modified air intake, beefier pistons, and a retuned ECU, while a high-flow performance exhaust system snakes its way to the back. The six-speed manual transmission boasts a short-throw shifter connecting to a revised third gear ratio. The result is stronger straight-line performance, although Subaru isn’t clarifying how much.

2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA
Love those rally retro brilliant gold rims. (Photo: Subaru)

For faster cornering and shorter stopping distances, the new WRX STI Type RA gets a lighter weight carbon fibre roof panel and pedestal wing, a set of brilliant gold 19-inch forged alloy BBS wheels on 245/35R19 Yokohama Advan Sports rubber, specially-tuned cross-drilled Brembo brakes with monoblock six-piston front calipers and dual-piston binders in the rear, plus looses its spare tire and tool kit, while a reworked suspension featuring inverted front struts and rear double wishbones, plus Bilstein dampers and coil springs, not to mention better stability control thanks to modified multi-mode VDC, adds to its road-holding prowess.

2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA
That’s a carbon fibre roof. (Photo: Subaru)

If you were wondering, RA stands for “Record Attempt”, a race-prepped WRX STI Type RA NBR Special having set a new lap record for a four-door sedan at the renowned 20.6-km (12.8-mile) Nürburgring Nordschleife racetrack, its record time being 6:57.5 minutes and its driver one very talented Kiwi named Richie Stanaway, best known for competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship (check the photo gallery and video below).

2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA
The 2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA NBR Special set a new Nürburgring Nordschleife track record for a sedan at 6:57.5 minutes. (Photo: Subaru)

In comparison the 2018 BRZ tS is far from a Nürburgring record breaker, its STI upgrades designed to deliver “the highest level of ‘fun to drive’ and ‘pure handling delight’ through greater flexibility, better control, and stability,” said Subaru in a press release.

Starting from a car that’s already amazingly agile thanks to an extremely low centre of gravity and a well designed suspension setup, the new 2018 BRZ tS adds STI-tuned front and rear SACHS dampers and coil springs, plus flexible V-braces under the hood. What’s more, new chassis and sub-frame draw stiffeners improve steering responsiveness, the new lightweight 18-inch STI wheels on 215/40 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 rubber (a BRZ first) no doubt doing likewise while also providing better adhesion and quicker turn-in. Stopping power is enhanced by a set of Brembo brakes.

2018 Subaru BRZ tS
The new BRZ tS is all about downforce and handling, not to mention style. (Photo: Subaru)

The BRZ tS gets an angrier look due to front, side and rear under-spoilers that also aid airflow for improved traction and stability, while an exclusive rear carbon fibre STI spoiler is manually adjustable for fine-tuning rear downforce.

2018 Subaru BRZ tS
That’s one wild looking rear wing, while it’s also adjustable. (Photo: Subaru)

Like the WRX STI Type RA, the new BRZ tS also gets Cherry Blossom Red accents around the grille and a special rear bumper cap, while the trunk lid just above shows off unique BRZ tS badging. Additionally, the front fog lights have been axed for STI fog light covers, while the side mirrors, roof-mounted shark fin antenna, and exterior badging are finished in black.

2018 Subaru BRZ tS
A closer look shows this wing is all business. (Photo: Subaru)

Inside, the BRZ tS wows with black leather and Alcantara upholstery featuring contrasting red stitching, while red accents highlight key areas elsewhere, such as the steering wheel, dash panels, knee pads, shifter and e-brake boots, and door panels. The front seats look sportier thanks to red leather bolsters, whereas the seatbacks receive embroidered tS logos. Additionally, the gauge cluster visor gets a unique finish, as does the door panel trim, while the centre console sports an exclusive cast black finish and rearview mirror is frameless. Lastly, the BRZ tS receives a set of red seatbelts up front.

2018 Subaru BRZ tS
Both cars get unique interior upgrades. (Photo: Subaru)

Both cars are available in WR Blue Pearl, Crystal Black Silica, and Crystal White Pearl exterior paint. Check with your local Subaru dealer for pricing.

Now, check out this video of the new 2018 WRX STI Type RA NBR Special setting a lap record on the Nürburgring Nordschleife racetrack:

 

It’s official: The innovative Jaguar I-Pace electric vehicle will arrive in production trim during the second half of 2018, ushering in an entirely new era for the iconic British luxury brand. The I-Pace…

Jaguar’s I-Pace EV to arrive during second half of 2018

2016 Jaguar I-Pace Concept
The all-electric Jaguar I-Pace Concept, introduced at the LA auto show in 2016, will arrive in production trim during the second half of 2018. (Photo: Jaguar)

It’s official: The innovative Jaguar I-Pace electric vehicle will arrive in production trim during the second half of 2018, ushering in an entirely new era for the iconic British luxury brand.

The I-Pace Concept wowed onlookers to such a degree when unveiled at auto shows across North America, including Los Angeles, Detroit, Chicago, Toronto and New York, that it received the rarified honour of being named Most Significant Concept Vehicle of 2017 at the 16th North American Concept Vehicle Awards.

2016 Jaguar I-Pace Concept
Most expect the production I-Pace to look very close to this concept. (Photo: Jaguar)

Additionally, the I-Pace won the Production Preview Concept of the Year category at the annual Concours d’Elegance of America, where it was also on display.

Uniquely designed as an “all-electric performance SUV,” the I-Pace will expand on a burgeoning Jaguar sport utility lineup that already offers the brand’s bestselling F-Pace compact SUV and will soon include the smaller entry-level E-Pace subcompact SUV. The I-Pace, however, rides on a totally unique EV architecture that slots in between Jaguar’s two conventionally powered SUVs in outward dimensions, yet is altogether different in approach.

2016 Jaguar I-Pace Concept
The concept’s interior looks ultra-plush, which is right on the mark for a production Jaguar. (Photo: Jaguar)

Unlike most EVs currently available, including those made by Tesla that purposely look like conventional cars, the I-Pace takes complete advantage of an electric vehicle’s nonconventional packaging requirements. For instance, instead of building an EV on the back of a vehicle initially designed to house the motor and transmission up front with a driveshaft down the middle, the I-Pace places a Jaguar-designed electric motor at each axle for all-wheel drive traction and a 90-kWh liquid-cooled battery within an aluminum housing as part of the floor’s structure in between. This allows for a cab-forward design featuring a windshield that reaches far over the front wheels, as well as a shorter more steeply raked hood, plus shorter front and rear overhangs, with each wheel pushed out as far to its corner as possible, resulting in much greater interior volume.

2016 Jaguar I-Pace Concept
Pedestal style seats may not make the final build, but many of the concept’s interior design cues will remain intact. (Photo: Jaguar)

Overall the I-Pace is approximately 50 mm (2.0 inches) shorter than the F-Pace, which is already a large compact SUV, but its wheelbase is 117 mm (4.6 inches) longer for much greater legroom front and rear. What’s more, the I-Pace Concept’s roof is nearly 100 mm (4.0 inches) lower than the F-Pace’s, for sleeker, sportier lines.

While the I-Pace shown here is a conceptual design and not production ready, the finished model to arrive in showrooms next year is expected to be sized similarly and look much the same, which follows Jaguar’s recent concept to production protocol. Of course, the prototype’s 23-inch alloys will be downsized somewhat, but generally what you see is what you’ll get.

2016 Jaguar I-Pace Concept
The I-Pace EV’s rear quarters look to be roomy and comfortable. (Photo: Jaguar)

Production I-Pace performance should be similar to the concept’s claimed capability, with the sprint from standstill to 100km/h taking about four seconds thanks to 200 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque from each of its two engines and a lightweight aluminum-intensive monocoque body shell, while its projected EV range should be greater than 355 km (220 miles) from a single charge.

2016 Jaguar I-Pace Concept
Cargo capacity should be good for a sport coupe style compact SUV. (Photo: Jaguar)

Having much of its weight down low, thus reducing its centre of gravity, handling should be an I-Pace strongpoint too. The suspension will be comprised of unequal-length control arms up front and a multilink setup in the rear, which should also result in excellent ride quality.

We won’t know exact pricing until closer to launch, but Jaguar’s U.S. division says it’s targeting an MSRP below $100,000 USD. It will be built by Magna Steyr in Austria, at least until Jaguar adds more EV models to the lineup. To that end Jaguar has promised that half of its vehicles will incorporate some sort of electrified drivetrain by 2025, so it appears the impressive new I-Pace is just the beginning.

Let’s face it. The majority of today’s consumers hook up to the digital world through an Apple or Android smartphone, and the ability to use either technology within our vehicles makes life a lot…

Acura adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to 2018 MDX

2018 Acura MDX
Apple CarPlay (upper display) has been lauded for making auto infotainment more user-friendly, while the 2018 MDX will also feature standard Android Auto (lower display). (Photo: Acura)

Let’s face it. The majority of today’s consumers hook up to the digital world through an Apple or Android smartphone, and the ability to use either technology within our vehicles makes life a lot easier.

That’s the premise behind Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the former noted for providing the Cupertino, California firm’s easy usability and trademark graphics within various cars’ central infotainment displays, while the latter more widely popular Seattle-sourced operating system does likewise, albeit without proprietary visual and functional designs.

2018 Acura MDX
Google’s Android operating system is now more popular than Apple’s iPhone system. (Photo: Acura)

While Honda’s namesake models have had Apple CarPlay and Android Auto incorporated within their single-screen infotainment systems for some time, Acura has been patiently waiting to receive them for its unique dual-display setup. The recently updated 2018 TLX received the two technologies earlier this year, so now the 2018 MDX, which was refreshed last year, will benefit from both smartphone-mirroring interfaces.

The TLX and MDX incorporate the Apple and Android interfaces within their larger top displays and leave the lower touchscreen, plus the rotating dial and buttons below, for control.

2018 Acura MDX
Amongst other features, the two smartphone-mirroring systems let you plot out navigation coordinates at home before traveling, which are then incorporated within the car’s infotainment display. (Photo: Acura)

Along with adding the Apple and Android upgrades to the TLX infotainment system it also received improvements to the stock display, with more logically organized functions and quicker response times. These changes will improve the MDX infotainment user experience whether linking your smartphone up to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto or not, plus the smartphone-mirroring technologies will be standard across the 2018 MDX line.

2018 Acura MDX
Red is the new colour theme for the 2018 MDX. (Photo: Acura)

Acura’s U.S. division has also shown new colours for the 2018 MDX, which will likely be available here in Canada as well, although the automaker’s Canadian division has made no announcements. This said, Basque Red and San Marino Red would be vivid additions to a lineup that only had Dark Cherry Pearl available for red fans last year, the only other colours being Obsidian Blue Pearl and Black Copper Pearl. This is why we mostly see the MDX in shades of Crystal Black Pearl, Modern Steel Metallic (a medium grey), Lunar Silver Metallic, and White Diamond Pearl.

No pricing or other modifications have been announced for the 2018 MDX, but it is expected to move into the new model year unchanged, other than the revisions just noted.