Hand-assembled in Modena, Italy, the 4C Spider 33 Stradale Tributo honors the 1967 Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale supercar. (Alfa Romeo)
Limited-edition Stradale Tributo marks final run of the 4C Spider for North America
BY MARK MAYNARD
Alfa Romeo unveiled today, Dec. 14, the 4C Spider 33 Stradale Tributo, inspired by the 1967 Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, one of the first mid-engine supercars. Only 33 units of this limited-edition Stradale Tributo will be produced for North America. The Stradale Tributo marks the final production run of the 4C Spider for North America.
Pricing starts at $79,995 U.S. MSRP, excluding the $1,595 freight charge from Modena, Italy.
The upcoming Tonale PHEV compact-class crossover. (Alfa Romeo)
Tim Kuniskis, Global Head of Alfa Romeo said in a statement that “The 4C Spider 33 Stradale Tributo … passes the torch to the next generation of iconic Alfa Romeo vehicles, including the upcoming Tonale PHEV crossover that will start production next year.”
The Stradale Tributo comes exclusively in Rosso Villa d’Este tri-coat red paint with gray-gold alloy wheels (18-inch front and 19-inch rear) and composite sport seats covered in black Dinamica suede and tobacco leather.
The cockpit will be displayed with “33” plaques in the cockpit, side sills and center console, the last of which is progressively numbered.
The premium black-and-tobacco interior. (Alfa Romeo)
Customers also will be given a matching, numbered book designed by Centro Stile (Design Center) that chronicles the 4C’s design concept, technology, materials and Modena assembly facility as well as the history of the 33 Stradale.
The 33 Stradale Tributo comes with commemorative badging, plaques and book. (Alfa Romeo)
The Stradale Tributo is loaded with extra features, including an Akrapovic dual-mode center-mounted exhaust (usually a $3,100 upgrade), race-tuned suspension ($800), bi-xenon headlamps ($1,100), battery charger ($150), car cover ($400), suede/leather seats and carbon fiber halo, rear wing and Italian flag mirror caps ($900). The exterior will be set off by “Centro Stile Alfa Romeo” badges and available piano-black front air intake and rear diffuser.
Weighing less than 2,500 pounds, the 4C Spider is powered by a 237-horsepower, direct-injection 1750cc turbocharged four-cylinder with dual intercoolers and a six-speed Alfa twin-clutch transmission. Alfa Romeo cites 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 160 mph.
Limited to just 33 cars, the limited-edition 4C features exclusive Rosso Villa d’Este tri-coat paint, gray-gold 5-hole alloy wheels and black-and-tobacco interior. (Alfa Romeo)
The 33 Stradale
Italian for “road-going,” the 33 Stradale was a hand-built mid-engine exotic based on the Tipo 33 race car that won its class at the 1968 24 Hours of Daytona. (Alfa Romeo)
The 1967 33 Stradale made its public debut at the Monza circuit on Aug. 31, 1967, on the eve of the 1967 Formula One Italian Grand Prix.
The black-and-tobacco interior of the ’67 33 Stradale. (Alfa Romeo)
Italian for “road-going,” with a top speed of 162 mph, the 33 Stradale was a hand-built Franco Scaglione-penned mid-engine exotic based on the Tipo 33 race car that won its class at the 1968 24 Hours of Daytona.
To this day it represents a singular blend of leading-edge technology, racing mechanics and inspirational design, a fitting forebear to the 4C Spider. Only 18 chassis were ever produced, with most completed cars painted in Alfa’s signature red, with gray-gold wheels and black-and-tobacco interior.
From an ugly sweater to a face mask to a Hellcrate Redeye 6.2-liter Supercharged crate V-8
BY MARK MAYNARD
If all you want for Christmas is an 807-horsepower Hellcrate Redeye 6.2-liter Supercharged HEMI V- 8, Mopar can gift wrap it! In all, the Motor Parts Division of Chrysler FCA US has more than a dozen holiday gift ideas ready to ship. Shop online at www.WearMopar.com and www.Mopar.com.
Through Dec. 31, 2020, Mopar customers receive 15 percent off accessory and performance part purchases.
From the www.WearMopar.com section of the website, use promo code “JOLLY75” at checkout for free standard ground shipping to U.S. locations this holiday season when spending $75 or more on branded merchandise; valid through Dec. 31, 2020.
Here are some ideas to get you in the holiday spirit:
• Mopar crystal holiday ornament, $29.95. The etched crystal holiday ornament that features the Omega M Mopar logo etched in the center of one side. The ornament is three inches in diameter and includes a two-inch silver-elastic hanging string and gift box.
• Mopar ugly holiday sweater, $44.95. Custom-knit design sweater is highlighted by a rear view of a classic HEMI V-8 engine on the front and “Do you hear what I hear” on the back. Available in medium, large and XL; in black, blue, white or orange.
• Mopar women’s soft-shell jacket, $100.95. Ultra-smooth, ultra-soft, athletic-fit women’s soft-shell three-season jacket features front zip pockets with Omega M-stacked Mopar logo embroidered on the left-chest area in white and blue. Available in sizes ranging from small to XXXL.
• Media screen protector, $20 each for 7- or 8.4-inch touchscreens. Made from tough, clear static-cling film.
• Hellcrate Redeye 6.2-liter Supercharged HEMI V-8 engine, $21,807. The most powerful production muscle car crate engine ever has 807 horsepower and 717 lb.-ft. of torque.
• Cargo tote, $50. Secure items with this portable cargo-management tote that folds easily for storage and unfolds to 24 inches by 15 inches. Fits all Jeep vehicles.
• Men’s HEMI hoodie, $49.95. The Lime green and black hoodie features a HEMI graphic in black on the left chest just above the large kangaroo pocket, along with Mopar wording on the right sleeve. Available in sizes ranging from small to XXXL.
• Mopar Oakley Holbrook backpack, $78.95. The spacious backpack features a dual-zipper main compartment, a padded internal sleeve that fits up to a 15-inch laptop or tablet, and padded back and shoulder straps. The blue Omega M-stacked Mopar logo is embroidered on the front.
• Reusable Mopar cotton face mask, $5.95: The super-soft, black, 100 percent cotton face mask features the Omega M-stacked Mopar logo. One size fits most.
• All-weather floor mats, $115-$265 per set. The high-wall, bucket-style mats will provide maximum coverage and protection. All mats include the specific vehicle’s brand logo and are molded in black. Ram mats are also available in brown.
• Pet kennel, $190. The black nylon mesh carrier includes two pockets, carrying handle, three doors, webbing zipper pulls and straps to secure the kennel.
• Doors-off mirror kit, $295. Available for current-generation Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator models. When the original, factory-installed front doors with attached mirrors are removed, two separately mounted side mirrors may be quickly and easily installed for an enhanced rear view.
• Mopar Vehicle Protection (MVP) Plans: Plans include full mechanical coverage with Maximum Care, Road Hazard Tire & Wheel, Auto Appearance, Scheduled Maintenance and more. Protection plans for lease vehicles are also available. For information on various MVP plan offerings, visit www.moparvehicleprotection.com.
• In addition, prepaid MVP oil change plans are available through Dec. 31, 2020 at participating dealerships: Synthetic blend and multipoint inspection – $29.95 for single oil change / $70 for three oil changes Full synthetic and multipoint inspection – $45.95 for single oil change / $100 for three oil changes Diesel and multipoint inspection – $109.95 for single oil change / $315 for three oil changes
The V-Series Blackwing models will be the first GM production vehicles with 3D-printed parts, including a unique medallion on the manual shifter knob. (Cadillac)
Cadillac announced today, Dec. 10, that the introduction of the new 2022 CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing will mark the revival of one of the most popular features for driving enthusiasts – the manual transmission.
These manual transmissions were produced using new additive manufacturing applications (3D printing) that will bring 3D-printed parts into the upcoming ultra-high-performance sedans.
The V-Series Blackwing models will be the first GM production vehicles with functional 3D-printed parts, including two HVAC ducts and an electrical harness bracket.
In addition, a unique 3D-printed medallion will sit on the manual shifter knob. By leveraging additive manufacturing, the Cadillac team was able to reduce costs and waste when developing the manual transmission.
“A lot of work went into making the manual possible in both vehicles. It’s something we know V-Series buyers want and it’s something we knew we had to have, so we used innovative processes to make it happen,” said Mirza Grebovic, Cadillac performance variant manager. “There are a few ways to really get that connected feel with the vehicle and the manual transmission is probably the most obvious one.”
The CT4-V Blackwing and the CT5-V Blackwing will come standard with a six-speed manual transmission with an option for a 10-speed automatic. The compact-class CT4-V Blackwing will be the only sedan in its segment to offer a manual, Cadillac says.
This six-speed manual transmission is quieter and more durable than the previous generation, Cadillac says.
Manuals by the numbers
In a recent Harris Poll study conducted on behalf of Cadillac about the current knowledge and adoption of the manual transmission found:
66 percent of American adults surveyed know how to drive a manual. Of those who do not know how to drive a manual, roughly 40 percent are either somewhat or very interested in learning.
55 percent of American adults say they have owned or leased a car with a manual transmission.
Interest in driving or learning to drive a manual is higher among those with $75,000 or more in annual household income (64 percent interested) and those between 18-34 in age (62 percent interested).
The 2022 CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing will be available starting summer 2021. Visit the V-Series Blackwing future vehicles page on Cadillac.com
The redesigned and larger 2022 MDX will go on sale Feb. 2 starting at $47,925 or $49,925 with AWD; Pricing includes the $1,025 freight charge from East Liberty, Ohio. (Acura)
Culmination of a five-year effort to rebuild the brand as a performance icon
BY MARK MAYNARD
A cura has leapfrogged the 2021 model year for a radically evolved 2022 MDX that represents the culmination of a five-year effort to rebuild the brand as a performance icon. The “all-new” MDX will arrive at dealers Feb. 2.
Revealed this week, Dec. 8, Acura calls its 2022 MDX “the most premium, performance-focused and technologically sophisticated SUV in Acura history.”
Replacing the RLX large sedan, the MDX has been elevated to be the brand’s new flagship vehicle. The next-generation MDX marks a quantum leap forward, Acura says, with a bold exterior design coupled with a sophisticated and elegant new interior featuring the most high-tech and advanced cockpit in the brand’s 35-year history.
Jon Ikeda, Acura’s chief brand officer, said the house of Acura is built around that performance mantra, culminating the new MDX.
“All the different pieces that we’ve been building up to the past 5 years to rebuild the brand are being culminated with the introduction of this brand new, revolutionarily designed MDX,” Ikeda said in the video. “It is a performance SUV because we are a performance brand.”
To fulfill its new role as the flagship model of the Acura brand, the MDX needed be something more than evolution, said Tom Nguyen, Global Development Lead. “And that something was the kind of unquantifiable value that doesn’t show up on engineering graphs or charts,” Nguyen said. “Call it desirability.
“As we defined our concept, we had a clear focus on taking MDX to a higher level, a true revolution that would invoke passion, excitement and emotions never before raised by MDX,” Nguyen said.
Cabin materials feature high-grade authentic materials such as open-pore wood, brushed aluminum and soft-touch Milano leather. (Acura)
Pricing
Sold in six trim levels in front- or Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, with a special A-Spec model, the entry MDX starts at $47,925 or $52,625 with technology package. MDX Super Handling All-Wheel Drive $49,925; $54,625 with technology package. And the MDX A-Spec, with standard AWD is $58,125; MDX or $61,675 with the Advance Package. Pricing includes the $1,025 freight charge from the assembly facility in East Liberty, Ohio.
Dimensionally, the new MDX sits on a 2.8-inch longer wheelbase, with a stance that’s 1.4 inches wider in the front and rear. At 198.4 inches, the new model is 2.2 inches longer. Body width is up 1 inch to 78.7 inches but overall width is just a half inch wider, at 67.1 in. The new dimensions added 6.4 cubic feet of interior cabin space, now at 139.1 cu.ft. And cargo space grew by 1.5 cubic feet behind the third row to 16.3 cu.ft.; and 2.2 cu.ft. with the third row folded, to 39.1 cu.ft.
Dash-to-axle ratio
Perhaps the most significant dimensional change is the dash-to-axle ratio, which has been extended by more than 4 inches. This lengthens the hood line significantly, creating a “cab rearward” proportion, Acura says, that emphasizes the power under its long, sharply creased hood.
The multi-faceted Diamond Pentagon grille is a showcase with new four-element JewelEye LED headlights that embed Chicane daytime running lights. Three-dimensional sculpting under the headlights serve to visually widen the front, blending to the fog-light housing at the bottom.
A hand-wrapped instrument panel with available top-stitching provides a premium touch beyond anything offered in MDX to date. (Acura)
New platform
The all-new light truck platform underpinning the 2022 MDX was designed in pursuit of Type S levels of performance. The MDX sports its first-ever double-wishbone front suspension, combined with an all-new multilink rear suspension. The combination, Acura says, provides incredibly precise road holding while maintaining a smooth ride.
New belt-driven electric power steering uses a high-output electric motor, essential for the quicker steering ratio afforded by the new variable gear ratio steering system, Acura says. The turning circle of 40.5 feet is not wider than some midsize sedans — but it is 1.8 feet wider than on the previous model.
Braking was enhanced with larger and thicker front brake rotors, and a new electric brake booster. The front rotors are 2mm thicker and 30mm larger in diameter, now at 13.8-inches with vented rotors. Solid rear discs have 13-inch rotors.
Repeated hard stops have reduced fade from a nearly 18-percent increase in heat capacity, Acura says. The new electric brake booster allows the collision mitigation braking system to react 230 milliseconds faster, reducing stopping distance from 30 mph by 12 feet.
A 12.3-Inch HD Precision Cockpit digital instrument cluster is configurable for various drive modes. (Acura)
Wheels and tires
New and larger wheel and tire packages increase the contact patch stiffness by 15 percent in lateral loads for improved handling performance.
The standard 19×8.5 wheels (+1-inch diameter, +0.5-inch width) are paired with wider 255 (+10mm) series tires take advantage of the steering and suspension updates.
Optional 20×9.0 wheels (+0.5-inch width) use in-wheel resonators to reduce road noise at highway speeds. A new Bridgestone tire developed exclusively for MDX features a revised rubber compound, construction and tread pattern to reduce rolling resistance by 17 percent.
New and larger wheel and tire packages feature a standard wheel size of 19 inches with an option for 20s. (Acura)
Paint colors
The 2022 Acura MDX will be available in just two standard (non-metallic) paint colors but six premium colors including two new offerings — Phantom Violet Pearl first offered on the 2021 TLX and an all-new Liquid Carbon Metallic.
Apex Blue Pearl returns as an exclusive color offered on the MDX A-Spec. Gloss black accents front to rear, darkened headlight and taillight treatment and Shark-Gray wheels emphasize the A-Spec’s sport appearance.
Cabin details
Cabin materials feature high-grade authentic materials such as open-pore wood, brushed aluminum and soft-touch Milano leather. A hand-wrapped instrument panel with available top-stitching provides a premium touch beyond anything offered in MDX to date, Acura says.
Next-generation Acura sport seats have standard 12-way adjustment, three-way seat heating and three-position memory. The MDX A-Spec adds ventilated front seats while the Advance Package gains additional power-adjusting side bolsters and thigh extensions for 16-way adjustment.
The second row features a multi-function removable middle seat providing three seating options: a traditional bench for three-across seating and seven-passenger total capacity, a captain’s chair style wide center armrest with additional drink holders (middle seat down) or wide pass-through for access to the third row (middle seat removed), which is handy when child seats are installed in the outboard second-row seat.
The second row features a multi-function removable middle seat. (Acura)
Connectivity
A pop-up socket in the center console packages USB-C and USB-A charging ports in front of a convenient pocket for smartphones. Also included rare standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration with standard wireless charging through a Qi-compatible 15-watt charger; the new charging pad is large enough for any size smartphone, Acura says.
For the first time, the MDX will have Amazon Alexa Built-In, allowing drivers to ask Alexa to navigate to a specific address or point of interest, play music, make calls, listen to audiobooks, check the weather, control smart home devices, find parking and more.
New convenience features include standard CabinControl, which enables passengers to control music, audio settings, rear climate controls, navigation and even the panoramic moonroof’s sunshade position using a downloadable smartphone app. With A-Spec and Advance Packages, MDX features CabinTalk, which amplifies the voices of front-seat passengers so they can be better heard in the second and third rows.
The 2022 MDX also features the latest generation of AcuraLink, with in-vehicle 4GLTE Wi-Fi compatibility, over-the-air software update capability and a wide array of available cloud-based services, including emergency roadside assistance, remote locking/unlocking and engine start, stolen vehicle tracking, remote diagnostics, geofencing, speed tracking and Acura concierge services.
Third row
The third row has an additional 0.4-inches of headroom, 2.4-inches of legroom and a seating position that’s 2-inches higher from the floor compared to the outgoing model. In MDX Advance trim, third-row occupants have their own USB charging ports on the left and right side of the cabin.
Cargo space ranges from 16.3 cubic feet to 39.1 cu. ft. with the second-row folded, or up to 71.4 cu.-ft.) with both rows folded. There also is 80 percent more basement storage under the cargo floor. The floor panel drops into the cargo well to expand the MDX’s rear cargo area behind the third row to 18.1 cubic feet, and is reversible, with a carpeted side and an easy-to-clean hard side for dirty or wet items.
Engine and transmission
Despite being considered “all-new” the MDX uses an enhanced version of the 3.5-liter V-6, which seems basically carryover, with same hp and torque as the 2020. The engine will need no tune-ups for 100,000 miles or more.
The in-house engineered 10-speed automatic transmission replaces a nine-speed automatic.
Fuel economy ratings, on the recommended premium octane, are 19 mpg city, 26 highway and 22 mpg combined; those are down by just 1 mpg in all categories despite another 239 pounds of curb weight. Ratings with AWD or the A-Spec are 19/25/ 21 mpg city/hwy/combined.
No Sport Hybrid is planned, which was the performance variant for the third-gen MDX. (It had 2020 fuel economy ratings of 26/27/27). “For this new MDX, Type S will assume that role, and push the performance envelope even farther for an Acura SUV,” a spokeswoman said.
LED headlights are embedded with Chicane daytime running lights. (Acura)
Safety
Next-generation passenger front air bag use a proprietary three-chamber design that functions much like a baseball catcher’s mitt. It is intended to more effectively cradle and protect the front seat occupant’s head to help mitigate potential injury, especially in angled frontal collisions.
All 2022 MDX trims have 10 air bags and has an expanded suite of standard AcuraWatch advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies. The various technologies include updated Road Departure Mitigation, Traffic Jam Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Pedestrian Detection and a new Driver Attention Monitor.
Working in conjunction with Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, Traffic Jam Assist helps reduce driver stress in highly congested traffic situations by helping keep the vehicle in its lane and at a set interval behind a vehicle detected ahead.
In addition, MDX will feature a new front and rear automatic braking system called Low Speed Braking Control.
Included in the Technology Package, the new system uses the sonar-based parking sensors to sense solid objects at low speeds, such as in parking situations, and warn the driver or apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate a collision.
Torque vectoring SH-AWD
The available rear-biased Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system uses Acura’s torque-vectoring all-wheel drive. Now in its fourth generation, SH-AWD has 40 percent more rear torque capacity and 30 percent quicker front-to-rear torque transfer than the third-generation system in the previous MDX.
The Acura SH-AWD system can transfer up to 70 percent of engine torque to the rear axle during normal driving conditions, while continuously apportioning up to 100 percent of that rear-axle torque between either the left or right rear wheels.
Next to arrive: High performance MDX Type S
Arriving at dealerships in late summer 2021, the MDX Type S joins the lineup as the brand’s first application of the Type S high performance nameplate to an SUV.
MDX Type S will deliver an even stronger performance styling statement, with an open diamond mesh grille, quad exhaust outlets and gloss black trim replacing the standard chrome.
Under the hood will be an all-new 3.0-liter turbocharged DOHC V-6, producing an estimated 355 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque, coupled with Acura’s SH-AWD. Maximizing grip, the new MDX Type S will feature standard 21-inch wheels with 275-series tires, and additional braking power coming from larger brakes and four-piston Brembo front calipers.
Inside, there are higher levels of refinement, with available nine-mode massaging front seats accented with curvilinear stitching, and unique colors and trim.
A new “Signature Edition” ELS STUDIO 3D audio system will be the most advanced and powerful audio system ever offered in an Acura vehicle. It has more than 1,000 watts of power, 22 discrete channels and 25 speakers.
More details on the highest-performing ever SUV from Acura will be released closer to its on-sale date late in the summer of 2021.
Arriving at dealerships in late summer 2021, the 355-hp MDX Type S joins the lineup as the brand’s first application of the Type S high performance nameplate to an SUV. (Acura)
The MDX is typically Acura’s top-selling vehicle, outpacing the smaller and less-expensive RDX. The MDX sold 4,491 units in Nov. 2020 vs. 4,155 for RDX.
2022 Acura MDX Body style: large, 6- to 7-seat SUV with optional AWD Engine: 290 hp, direct-injected 3.5-liter V-6, with auto stop-start at idle; 267 lb.-ft. torque at 4,700 RPM Transmission: 10-speed automatic with sequential SportShift paddle shifters
Fuel economy: FWD: 19/26/22 mpg city/hwy/combined, on premium fuel SH-AWD and A-Spec: 19/25/21 mpg
SPECIFICATIONS Fuel tank: 18.5 gal. Cargo space: 16.2-39.1 cu. ft. Front head/leg room: 38.5/41.6 in. 2nd row head/leg room: 38.1/38.5 in. 3rd row head/leg room: 36.2/29.1 in.
Length/wheelbase: 198.4/113.8 in. Width/height: 78.7/67.1 in. Curb weights: 4,271-4,565 lbs. Turning circle: 40.5 ft.
STARTING PRICES
MDX with front wheel drive $46,900; $51,600 with technology package
MDX Super Handling All-Wheel Drive $48,900; $53,600 with technology package
MDX A-Spec, w/AWD $57,100; MDX with Advance Package $60,650.
Where assembled: East Liberty, Ohio Warranty: 4-years/50,000-miles bumper to bumper; 6-years/70,000-miles powertrain
Bentley is offering what it calls a ground-breaking three-dimensional wood trim for the rear door panels in the all-new Flying Spur grand-touring sedan
The open-pore veneer has a 3D surface finish consisting of 150 diamonds. (Photos courtesy of Bentley)
Wood is an organic element that adds natural warmth in an inorganic mode of transportation — but not all wood is equal. The ultraluxury car segment has long been a purveyor of unique wood veneers for vehicle interiors. And the types of wood used by some makers, such as Rolls-Royce, are archived, cataloged, and identified by the vehicle, make and model. When a repair is needed, the core of archived wood can be used to make repairs.
The woods used are often bookmatched so the adjoining surfaces mirror each other, giving the impression of an opened book. To highlight the graining, many makers have sought distinction by offering the patina of aged timber or salvaged lumber from trees that had been submerged. Even the Ram pickup had a wood option that showed damage from barbed wire. Some makers have worked silver powder into the pores as a highlight.
Bentley woodworkers carve the block of wood with a multi-axis routing machine to a tolerance of 0.1mm — less than the thickness of a human hair.
In less-luxurious applications, the wood is sometimes a photograph or plastic representation. But because safety standards for wood trim require it to be so completely treated to avoid splintering in a collision, even the genuine article can look like saturated plastic.
Now, Bentley is offering what it calls a ground-breaking three-dimensional wood trim, designed for the rear door panels. It is a world-first for the automotive sector, Bentley says, and is now available in the all-new Flying Spur grand-touring sedan.
The diamond-shaped pattern is enhanced with a three-dimensional surface finish machined directly into the wood.
The three-dimensional wood works well in the back seat, Bentley says, because the rear doors have an especially large surface to showcase the level of craftsmanship. And the open-pore veneer would potentially clash with the smooth high-gloss veneer used in the front-seat area.
“Typically, ultra-luxurious and expensive features such as this are most appreciated in the rear cabin, particularly important for those who may choose to be driven rather than drive,” Bentley said.
The new veneer option from the Bentley Mulliner “Collections” is a design statement, “bringing tactility to the natural beauty of wood,” Brett Boydell, Bentley’s head of interior design for the Flying Spur, said in a release.
Each rear door and quarter panel is crafted from a single block of sustainable American Walnut or American Cherry timber, “in a harmonious marriage of traditional skills and modern technology,” Boydell said.
The U.S. option package is $13,270.
The three-dimensional wood works well in the back seat, Bentley says, because the rear doors have an especially large surface to showcase the level of craftsmanship.
Roots of the Wood
The concept for 3D-machined wood was first shown in Bentley’s EXP 10 Speed 6 concept at the Geneva Motor Show in 2015. The design was inspired by the diamond-quilted leather used in the Mulliner Driving Specification interior.
Developing the three-dimensional wood took 18 months by expert technical craftsmen to bring the complex concept to reality.
The organic 3D parts are not made using veneers, as is typically applied to the fascia and waist rails. Instead, each is created from a single block of timber, Boydell said. Operators carve the wood with a multi-axis routing machine to a tolerance of 0.1mm, less than the thickness of a human hair.
The cuts are then hand-finished and an open-pore lacquer is applied to allow the true color and texture of the wood to preserve a refined, natural appearance.
The log’s back or “B surface” is machined to match a die-cast template of the aluminum door panel. The plank of wood is then bonded to the template, and then the assembly is placed back into the machine and the front or “A surface” is cut into its three-dimensional form.
Sustainable Timbers
The American Walnut and American Cherry timber are sustainably sourced from North American hardwood forests, Boydell said. Only logs with no knots or resin inclusions through the depth of the wood are used.
American Walnut is one of the most sought-after species of wood in markets around the world, he said. “It is darker than European Walnut, as well as tough, hard and of medium density. American Cherry is highly prized for furniture and interior joinery — the wood finish varies from rich red to reddish brown.”
The third-generation Flying Spur (the four-door variant of the Bentley Continental GT coupé) is built on a new aluminum and composite chassis and features electronic all-wheel steering for the first time in a Bentley.
The New Flying Spur
The all-new Flying Spur grand-touring sedan is rich in limousine-style comfort and a benchmark of innovative technologies. It is hand-assembled in Crewe, England, at the world’s first carbon neutral luxury car factory, Boydell said.
The third-generation Flying Spur (the four-door variant of the Bentley Continental GT coupé) is built on a new aluminum and composite chassis and features electronic all-wheel steering for the first time in a Bentley. The system integrates active all-wheel drive and Bentley Dynamic Ride, which the company says is the “world’s first 48-volt electric anti-roll system to deliver phenomenal handling and ride.”
New, three-chamber air springs offer a greater range of suspension adjustment between limousine-style ride comfort and sporting levels of body control. It allows the Flying Spur a breadth of capability not seen in the luxury segment before, Bentley says.
At the heart of the Flying Spur is an enhanced version of Bentley’s 626-horsepower, 6.0-liter, twin-turbocharged W-12 engine. Its 664 foot-pounds of torque are channeled through the dual-clutch eight-speed transmission for faster, which was updated for eve smoother gear changes. The new direct-injected engine can launch the 5,400-pound sedan to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, Bentley says, and has a top speed of 207 mph.
The redesigned 2020 Flying Spur has a starting price of about $215,000.
The 50th anniversary of Hot Wheels is making yet another victory lap in its yearlong celebration. Toymaker Mattel’s tribute to its free-wheeling toy cars began April 28 with a 14-city tour to seek out crazy cars for a new series.
And now the U.S. Postal Service is honoring the diecast cars with a block of 20 Forever stamps showcasing some of the most outrageous designs from Hot Wheels history.
To be sure the stamps get a strong start, the USPS has chosen the Goodguys 26th Summit Racing Lone Star Nationals, Sept. 28-30, at the Texas Motor Speedway for the first-day-of-issue ceremony.
Five Hot Wheels cars will be on display all day Saturday, Sept. 29, and a postal-service booth will sell stamps. https://good-guys.com/lsn
Arranged in diagonal rows, the 20 stamps showcase photographer Len Rizzi’s images of 10 Hot Wheels cars — two of each design — speeding along a bright orange track.
Arranged in diagonal rows, the 20 stamps showcase photographer Len Rizzi’s images of 10 Hot Wheels cars — two of each design — speeding along the orange track.
Each stamp features the name of the vehicle shown in one of the top corners and the words “USA” and “Forever” in one of the bottom corners. The Hot Wheels logo appears in the top right corner of the pane. The back of the panel displays the Hot Wheels 50th anniversary logo. William J. Gicker was the project’s art director. Greg Breeding designed the stamps and was the typographer
Hot Wheels was born when Mattel co-founder Elliot Handler challenged his design team, which included a General Motors car designer and a rocket scientist, to create a toy car that was cooler and performed better than anything on the market. Mattel soon introduced its orange tracks, which provided children unlimited ways to test out stunts and racing skills. In 2011, Hot Wheels was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame.
Bentley is offering what it calls a ground-breaking three-dimensional wood trim for the rear door panels in the all-new Flying Spur grand-touring sedan
