For all of the retro-styling that has swept through the auto industry in the last decade, trucks have been left almost completely alone.  (No the Chevy SSR doesn’t count)  That’s a shame, because like everything else there is a huge population of car and truck enthusiasts who would snap up the chance for a modernized version of their favorite truck from the past.  For instance, hardly a day goes by that I don’t receive a request for more information or an update on the possibility of a new Jeep truck. 

Same could be said for Toyota’s Tacoma Truck Concept, which is affectionately referred to as the “Back to the Future” Truck because of the resemblance it has to Marty McFly’s dream machine.  It’s not all just retro paint and decals though.  This truck concept contains some very unique pieces from its past and some old school technology. 

Obviously it isn’t easy to identify what concepts or new cars will be a success with the public; otherwise it would happen all of the time.  With restyled models from the past it is usually based on how well a new design taps into the positive qualities of the original.  With the Tacoma Concept that meant simplifying things a bit from the modern version.  The Toyota trucks from the 80′s had alot going for them, but complex they were not.  Forget airbags, CD players, maybe even air conditioning, all that is just more to break anyway.  Instead, they made up for this relative lack of comfort with a large dose of reliability.  Central to this is their implementation of durable 4-cylinder engines which continued to run strong long after the Japanese bodies that covered them had all but rusted away.

So, to honor this truck heritage, Toyota created this one-of-a-kind 4x4x4: four-wheel drive with a four-speed automatic transmission and four-cylinder engine.  The most notable difference between the concept and the modern truck is the solid front axle pulled from a 90′s era Land Cruiser that replaces the Tacoma’s stock independent front suspension.  This is a happy development for serious offroaders who prefer solid front axles for their elevated wheel travel.  Also pulled from a Land Cruiser is a floor-mounted manual transfer case lever next to the transmission shifter to switch the truck from two-wheel drive to 4-high or 4-low, instead of a modern dash-mounted electric t-case knob.  Under the hood the Tacoma’s 159 horsepower 2.7-liter 2TRFE four-cylinder engine provides motivation, although it is a bit on the weak side for the truck’s 3,700 pound curb weight.  Beyond the lovely shade of beige paint and graphics, the custom grille and tubular front and rear bumpers provide a decidedly McFly-worthy exterior.  Likewise, the interior features an expanse of brown and tan, highlighted by real Recaro cloth inserts that were kept in storage for the last 20 years.

Ever mindful of what other manufacturers are up to, speculation is that Toyota has built this concept to guage interest in a small production Ford Raptor SVT-style truck.  Currently, only the PreRunner approaches this concept in the Toyota lineup.

Race-Prepared 2010 Camaro

Like a flashback to a time when Detroit steel dominated the world; Mustangs, Camaros and Challengers will all be represented in the season-ending Bosch Engineering Oktoberfest race this weekend in Richmond VA. All three of these modern pony cars compete in the series’ Grand Sport class, a group that includes cars that have only been minimally modified to 350-405 horsepower and top out at 160 mph. Unlike most other racing, the opportunity to see a car that is very much like one from the factory being put through its paces is more than a little satisfying.

The Koni Challenge Sports Car Series is the headlining event at Virginia International Raceway this weekend. Friday is a free practice day, with Qualifying happening after Practice on Saturday morning. Sunday will open practice in the morning with an open paddock, pit stop demonstrations, and other fan activities throughout the day. The four hour race will then begin at twelve noon.  Fans are encouraged to attend and visit the team’s paddock to meet the drivers and crew.

Challenger Returns To Race This Year

Although Mustangs have competed in this event since 2001, the Challenger and Camaro have returned this year after nearly three decades away for the Dodge and seven for Chevy.  Not to be overlooked, this triad of American muscle will face serious competition from the German manufacturers as well.  The reigning KONI Challenge Champion Ford Mustang will attempt to repeat against the BMW M3 and Porsche 997.  In fact, Ford is trailing BMW who hold the lead in the Manufacturer’s Championship standings by two points after both of their M3s finished on the podium two weeks ago in Utah.

Like it or not, selecting a new vehicle for most people is almost as much about compromise as it is about finding the perfect car. Unless you have deep pockets and a Jay Leno sized garage, to have certain things, you give up others. The pursuit of finding a better balance is the inspiration behind the Jeep Wrangler JK “Weekender” Project Vehicle. The RealWheels people believed that with a little help they could turn the four-door Wrangler into a better daily family hauler, without diminishing its tough off-road capabilities. Here’s what they came up with.

Of course this exercise in exploring what was possible in modifying a new Jeep was more than a little self-serving for RealWheels. To coincide with the building of the Jeep Wrangler JK “Weekender” Project Vehicle, RealWheels Off-Road released a line of their own upgraded the interior, sound and exterior pieces based on the initial concept vehicle that all Jeep-lovers can now buy. Most of these accessories were either inspired or revised based on the input of a very active Jeep fan base. Some of the more extreme suggestions for the Wrangler, such as an engine swap, were eliminated as RealWheels strived to keep modifications that could be done by the owners themselves in the course of a weekend in their own garages. In the end, this collaboration with Jeep enthusiasts resulted in over 50 different enhancement products for the Wrangler that are now available from RealWheels.

For more information about the Jeep Wrangler JK “Weekender” and the complete line of RealWheels Jeep JK parts, visit www.realwheels.com.

Possible 2011 Sonata Styling

Since the Genesis was unleashed, and promptly silenced skeptical critics, the Hyundai Sonata has seen a sharp decline in the amount of attention it received. That all seems on the verge of changing dramatically with huge projections that the South Korean automaker expects to sell nearly 60,000 units just in Korea this year alone. That appears to only be the start of things with a heavily revised 2011 Sonata even more capably situated to battle with the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.

Current Sonata Model

To put these sales numbers in perspective, 60,000 units is more than the sales of the entire Saturn line last year, which didn’t even add up to 50,000 units. But while current projections and sales is good news enough, the strong response to the upwardly aimed Genesis has driven Hyundai to update their midsize Sonata with a fresh look for 2011 that is surely making Toyota and Honda nervous. Production of the 2011 sedan will begin early next year at the plant located in Alabama.

Heavily Revised 2011 Sonata

Judging by early renderings, photos and projections, Hyundai is successfully implementing a “trickle-down” approach to restyling their entire lineup with the Genesis and Genesis coupe providing the general framework and inspiration for the new look being adopted by Hyundai. As part of the effort to supplant perennial midsize sedan leaders from Toyota and Honda, the new Sonata will be equipped with a strong 2.5-liter engine in the U.S. and a smaller powerplant in other worldwide markets. Sales projections for the 2011 Sonata are being estimated at an enormous 450,000 units.

2011 Sonata Concept

Hyundai Motor Vice Chairman Chung Eui-sun said in a statement that the Sonata will raise Hyundai’s brand value by setting a new standard for world-class mid-size sedans with state-of-the-art technology, quality and “fluidic sculpture” design. All versions of the Sonata will be equipped with a standard Vehicle Dynamic Control with Hill-start Assist Control and Brake Assist System functions. Other highlights include an available three-piece panoramic sunroof and a new Parking Guide System (PGS).

In South Korea, the new Sonata’s prices range from the equivalent of $17,600 to $21,450.

As much as the drifting crowd would like to think their four-wheeled acrobatics will incite a new renaissance in grass-roots racing, conjure up the ghost of Steve McQueen, and cure cancer, in actuality it is the automotive equivalent of synchronized swimming. Still, even the most cynical among us has to admit that repeatedly maintaining control of a couple thousand lbs of machinery through excessively oversteered corners deserves our respect on some level.

One of the reigning kings of this (let’s call it) sport, is Vaughn Gittin Jr., who if you didn’t know, is the new poster child for Ford’s campaign at making the 2010 Mustang a legitimate drift contender. As part of that effort, they have released six documentary-style webisodes that chronicle his recent tour of the drifting motherland: Japan.

We are already pretty much in love with the new Mustang, so it doesn’t take much prompting for us to sit through footage of it tearing around a race track. Even so, it seems out of place among the garishly painted Nissans and Toyotas that it shares screen time with. That is, of course, the point. As is the overtly self-serving cuts to every Tom, Dick and Hiyoshi who immediately falls in love with the All-American Mustang.

Let it also be said that this particular ‘Stang is far from just a factory-equipped GT. To begin with, it comes with a significant power increase to 500 horsepower by way of a Ford Racing supercharger and intercooler, and makes use of an Exedy clutch, a Ford Racing FR3 suspension pack, a Ford Racing brake kit, HRE wheels, Bosch Performance spark plugs, and Falken Tires. Naturally, the latter is a major Gitten sponsor by necessity. At the very least, this film illustrates the “anything is possible” optimism swirling around Ford, as well as the highly-upgradable qualities of the new Mustang.

If you are interested in seeing the footage for yourself head over to www.2010mustangdrift.com.

Unemployed Montreal Grid Girls Rejoice

Following the announcement by Grand Prix F1 du Canada Inc. President Normand Legault stating that a “commercial dispute” with Bernie Ecclestone has been settled, promoters of the Montreal event announced that the Canadian race would indeed return in 2010 after a one year absence.

Last Winner In Montreal - Robert Kubica

For only the second time in over forty years, both the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal and the French GP were dropped last season after organizers failed to meet the notoriously divisive Ecclestone’s exorbitant financial and contractual demands of nearly $175 million over five years. Instead a poorly attended F1 race in Istanbul along with an new race in Abu Dhabi were added last year. The lackluster event in Turkey, which according to some estimates, delivered a paltry 30,000 people in comparison to the nearly 300,000 that attend the events during the race weekend in Montreal, played a huge role in Ecclestone’s reversal.

To sweeten the deal, federal and provincial funds of $5 million with an additional $5 million from a hotel tax in Montreal were to get the race back to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. The event brings an estimated $100 million per year in revenues and economic derivatives to the city.

Robert Kubica

In nearly the same breath as that which delivered the good news, Ecclestone ruled out a return to Indianapolis, which last hosted an F1 race in 2007.

Based on the sales success of the new Mustang, the large pool of Mustangs on the road poses a real incentive for offering aftermarket parts and accessories, which includes a new cold air kit by Roush. Not that the new 2010 Ford Mustang GT and its 315 horses are in need of horsepower help, but when power can be increased so easily, the decision to replace the stock air intake with one from Roush Performance is a no-brainer.

A degree of patience has to be excercised for those wishing to upgrade the breathing abilities of their ‘Stang as this new part won’t be available until after September 21st. When it is, Mustang GT owners can expect gains of around 10 horsepower, which is considerable considering how inexpensive the new kit is at around 200 bucks.

The new cold air intake replaces the stock 2010 Mustang GT filter housing with a true open element filter, that unlike the factory pieces uses a different air shroud that seals against the bottom of the hood to assure that colder air is breathed in by the engine.The stock MAF sensor will bolt into the new system and installation of the kit will not require any other engine modifications or tuning.

As anyone familiar with Roush would expect, because Roush has full control over their parts production, the appearance of this new kit looks like it came directly from Ford and is at least as a well made as the rest of the factory Mustang parts.

News that Kia has entered the hybrid segment is unremarkable considering the tardiness of the South Korean automaker in inserting themselves into that discussion. That is until you consider other factors that have accompanied this announcement. Most significant are the broad improvements that have taken place at the company, particularly with the release of the new Forte. The success of this car is a demonstration that production quality and style are now at least on par with compacts from Honda and Toyota, and at a reduced price. Similarly, the release of new Kia hybrids is perhaps the strongest signal yet that the premium price that has typically been attached to owning a hybrid, (the main obstacle for many potential buyers), is on the verge of being eliminated.

While the first Kia Hybrids, (Forte and Europe-only Cee’d), are categorized as “mild” hybrids, the fact that Kia/Hyundai has set aside $6 billion for research and development of hybrid and fuel cell vehicles is an indication that they intend to go the distance.

First up is the Forte LPI hybrid which showed up at the 2009 Seoul Auto Show, kicked off Kia’s new eco-friendly sub-brand (Eco-Dynamics), and went on sale in Korea this month. Kia’s first hybrid car is powered by a mild-hybrid system that uses both a 114 hp, 1.6L LPI engine and 20 hp electric motor. Power runs through a CVT transmission that helps the LPI hybrid average an estimated fuel economy of 4.7L/100km. While the use of CVT is not unique, what is special is the cars use of a special E-gear (Eco Drive) that makes automatic adjustments to ensure maximum fuel efficiency. Both the engine and electric motor are activated when the ignition is turned on but only the engine will run when cruising. When decelerating, the car activates a special regenerative braking function to convert energy that is normally lost into electricity that can be stored in the battery. Speaking of the battery, according to Kia, the Forte hybrid LPI is the first hybrid car in the world to use a Lithium Polymer battery pack, the same battery pack that is used in the upcoming Chevy Volt. The hybrid system is also equipped with Kia’s Intelligent Stop and Go function, which automatically switches off the engine when the vehicle is idling to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption and emissions.

On the outside, the Forte hybrid distinguishes itself slightly from standard versions with a redesigned grille and front bumper in front, and new LED technology equipped tail-lights, lip spoiler and a similarly spruced-up rear bumper in the rear. Inside features include a navigation display and a Super Vision instrument cluster that relays critical information to the driver and includes an “Eco Guide” function which encourages the driver with an “Eco Driving Point” icon to adjust fuel consumption and drive more sensibly.

For North American consumers, the first hybrid salvo fired from Kia will land here next year in the form of a new 2011 Optima Hybrid, that will come as a full hybrid car that is capable of driving purely on electric power, followed by a plug-in hybrid by 2013. Hear that Honda and Toyota? That’s your market share being eaten away.

With few exceptions, when given a choice between convertibles and hardtops we usually default to the latter as their performance tends to trump their topless brethren. Not to mention that wind buffeting tends to wreak havoc on our ear-to-ear comb over. Nevertheless, as summer fades to fall, it would be a shame not to single out some affordable convertible options that could convince even the most follicly-challenged among us to lay down an extra layer of hair spray and drop our tops.

Not only is fall an ideal time to enjoy a convertible, but sales of convertibles peak in spring, making the next few weeks a perfect time to get a great deal on a new car. Realistically, since convertibles account for only around 2% of domestic auto sales, their limited versatility will always trail traditional solid roof cars. This is especially true in a down economy where few people can afford to buy a new car just for fun days in the sun. But with the evolution of better tops and an emphasis on increasing a convertibles “livability” for every day driving, there is no reason that many new convertibles could not be drafted into all-season service as a primary vehicle.

Traditional – Mazda MX-5 Miata

Whatever convertibles have become, the MX-5 Miata from Mazda is the modern interpretation of where it they have come from. Although it has now been around for nearly two decades, Mazda has continually improved upon the 2 seater, which continues to be lightweight and affordable. Most notable for the newest MX-5, is an optional power-operated automatic roof that seems downright luxurious compared to its pedigree. Ease in top-down fun aside, the Miata continues to be a solid value pick on many lists, not only with a reasonable base price of $22,500 and accolades for its dependability, but by delivering fuel economy of 22 and 28 mpg in city and highway driving. Even the most basic models turn in a spirited 0-60 mph time of under 7 seconds.

Upscale – Saab 9-3

Let’s be honest. Saab hasn’t had much to celebrate lately. But contrary to the perception that they are unfairly judged around here, we actually root for Saab to make a comeback now that they have been freed from the burden of GM. Central to that success will be the 9-3 convertible, or something very similar to it; car that has always been popular among the upwardly-mobile. Like other cars on this list, the 9-3 is injected with some performance via a choice of either a turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 210 horsepower, or a similarly motivated V6 that achieves 280 hp. Of course you also get a back seat, which unlike the Miata or Solstice has its advantages as an everyday driver.  If you can do without the increased power of the V6, you are also rewarded in the Saab by the engines fuel efficiency of 19 and 27 mpg in the city or highway. Yes, we’d admit that with a base price of $42,130 the 9-3 convertible is stretching the definition of “budget-friendly.” But this is certainly not out-of-reach for most in the market for a luxury-oriented convertibles. And viewing the automakers lackluster sales as a positive, you can be assured that you won’t see too many others like it on the road.

Import – Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder

For whatever reason, admitting that you like the Eclipse Spyder is usually veiwed as an indictment on your maturity level. In fact, the Eclipse does alot of things right and that includes how it looks. Yeah. We said it. Sure it could stand to shed a few of the extraneous pieces on the outside, but in terms of the “look at me” factor, few cars at any price will get the same attention. And in reality, the Spyder version of the Eclipse actually looks more conservative than the standard coupe. The base GS model has a 162 horsepower and an equal amount of torque via its 2.4 liter, 4-cylinder engine, while the real fun comes from the optional 265 horsepower 3.8 liter V6 GT. It also comes with the option of a high-end, 650-watt, nine speaker, Rockford Fosgate stereo that is sure to turn heads if the sheet metal doesn’t. Pricing starts in the mid-28 grand range and stays under $36,000 with all of the bells and whistles.

Compact – MINI Cooper

With all due respect to the Suzuki SX4 or other Japanese hatchbacks, there really is not much in the way of real competition for the MINI. And that includes the convertible versions which boast a sub-15 second automatic convertible top and the ability to be retracted halfway for a sunroof-style ride. There’s even an “openmeter” to measure how much time is spent with the top down. The standard MINI and its “cute” looks are sure only surpassed by the convertible model, which admittedly achieves a feminine quality not seen since the Beetle Convertible was released. The base model produces a modest 118 horses which is almost too much for the MINI whose traditionally svelte weight is almost overcome by the added convertible mass. But for the sport-minded, a turbocharged 172 horsepower version with 7.5 second 0 to 60 mph capabilities can also be had. In either case, the fun factor is very high with the MINI and starts at just over $25,000.

All-American Muscle – Ford Mustang

What could be more American than a Mustang convertible? Like the coupe version, the newly revised Mustang is once again one of the more popular domestic choices, and with good reason. Entrance into the Mustang Convertible party can be had for less than $27,000. Like the standard version, the Mustang comes in both V6 and V8 versions that produce either 210 or 300 horses. Fuel economy predictably suffers with the V8 (15/23 mpg), though not much can beat that throaty growl of American horsepower while cruising around town in the open air.

Get It Before Its Gone – Pontiac Solstice/Saturn Sky

Who knows whether Penske, or some other private firm will snatch the Solstice/Sky from oblivion when ownership of the brands are finally transferred or shelved in the near future. Which makes the opportunity to snatch up either one of these roadsters all the more urgent. Like the Miata, both the Solstice and Sky offer single-minded, two seated fun. Though many may justly criticize the cramped and sparse interior of these cars, few come away unsatisfied by the experience after driving them. Performance-centered versions are highlighted by a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 260 horses and 0 to 60 mph times of around 5.5 seconds. In terms of fuel economy, the more potent of the two engines is still rated at 19 mpg and 28 mpg in city and highway driving. They may never be truly collectible, but with a base price starting at $24,275 for the Solstice and $28,265 for the Sky, they are certainly attainable.

They may look the same, and their names may sound similar, but Europeans know that there is quite a big difference in price and performance between a MINI ONE and a MINI Cooper. Nevertheless, for many city dwellers, the MINI ONE has proven to be a satisfying decaffeinated version of the MINI that we know and love here in America. Now an even more economical model called the MINI First, along with a diesel version of the MINI ONE are given the task of attempting to restart lagging European MINI sales.

MINIs are not particularly cheap considering their limited size and (especially with the non-Cooper versions) limited power. With an eye towards luring more customers unable to pony up the prerequisite cash for the most exciting versions, BMW is offering a MINI First model which retains the compact cars good looks and not much else. With a cost of under 11,000 pounds, the Mini First looks almost the same as the Mini ONE but uses a 1.4 liter engine with only 74 horsepower instead of the already modest powerplant out of the ONE. This engine swap along with an absence of much in the way of interior amenities helps keep the total cost of the car to a minimum.

BMWs second area meant to attract buyers involves selling the MINI ONE D for around 12,000 pounds beginning next month. The turbocharged common rail injected 1.6-liter powerplant for this new option is adopted from the already available Cooper D, though as a detuned version that makes only 90 horsepower as compared to 108. The upside is mileage of around 60 mpg, at the cost of having to endure an endless wait time of 11 seconds to get it up to 60 mph. Being a diesel, the MINI ONE D develop its power from as low down as 1,750 rpm. Its turbocharger comes with variable turbine geometry, which optimizes power development through the entire engine speed range. Along with a diesel particulate filter and numerous efficiency-enhancing measures to curb consumption and emissions, the MINI One D utilizes brake energy regeneration for the on-board power supply while the car is braking and coasting and an auto start stop function, which switches off the engine when stopped at traffic lights.

Mated to this economical diesel is a notchy and precise six-speed manual transmission that helps detract from the dirth of acceleration. In fact, despite the differences on paper in horsepower between MINI models, driving the D maintains a high degree of the fun factor that is an integral part of the brand’s character. Most important to this is the cars handling attributes that are the result of a McPherson spring-strut front axle construction, multi-link rear suspension and Electrical Power Steering system. The later helps the efficiency of the car by only engaging its electric motor when steering assistance is required. Other than its chrome and black grille, the standard equipment of the new entry-level diesel MINI is otherwise identical to that of the regular gas version.

Of course, like all MINIs, a seemingly inexhaustible selection of optional extras and accessories are available to personalize these cars to owner specifications.