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Week of September 14, 2021

Jacksonville Car Culture events calendar:

The Hagerty Driving Experience — Saturday, September 18, 2021
Young drivers can learn the feel of a manual transmission on a classic car as The Hagerty Driving Experience comes to The Brumos Collection on Saturday for two sessions, at 9 a.m. and the other at 1 p.m. Hands-on-the-wheel training sessions teaching manual transmission operation will be available free to licensed drivers ages 16-25 for a once-in-a-lifetime driving experience. Register here for the free experience. Since 2011, Hagerty and its volunteers have trained more than 4,000 students how to drive a manual transmission through initiatives like its Driving Experience and Driving Academy, a series of more than 40 events nationwide that teach safe, proficient driving skills and the art of rowing through a gearbox with a clutch. These skills are essential for driving enthusiast vehicles. And many drivers have not had the chance to drive a manual gearbox since so few newer cars are so equipped. No prior experience is required, and participants will be encouraged to enjoy The Brumos Collection at 5159 San Pablo Road S., just a right-turn exit off Butler Boulevard. The museum tour is complementary; for more information, go to thebrumoscollection.com.

“Inside the 59” episode premieres — Speaking of The Brumos Collection, it’s released the latest episode of its popular “Inside the 59” video series, profiling the fastest production Porsche ever manufactured: the 2015 plug-in hybrid Porsche 918 Spyder. One of dozens of classic, specialty and racing machines on display at the museum at 5159 San Pablo Road S., it is a big draw for visitors, and now plays a starring role in the latest edition of the popular video series, complete with a factory paint job featuring the iconic red and blue Brumos sweeps.

“Every vehicle in our collection has earned its spot thanks to the historical significance it brings to bear. While this 918 Spyder isn’t old, the innovations it pioneered are undeniably historic for Porsche and for the world of racing,” said Brandon Starks, Executive Director of The Brumos Collection. “Many of its features are borrowed from its predecessors, such as its carbon fiber chassis, which was initially developed for the Carrera GT, and its all-wheel drive, which harkens back to the 959. At the same time, it features innovations such as a brand new cooling system and a hybrid-electric engine configuration that sets the standard for the hybrids of tomorrow.”

The video piece is on The Brumos Collection’s three social media sites: Facebook: @thebrumoscollection; Instagram: @thebrumoscollection; and YouTube: The Brumos Collection. It shows the 918 Spyder exercising its horses both waterside and amid scenic greenery, with close-up detail shots of the supercar as facts about it are expounded upon.

Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville –– The fourth edition of the new Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville cruise-in rolls along from 8 to 11 a.m. on Sat. Oct. 9 at the Avenues Mall at 10300 Southside Blvd. This edition will celebrate vintage and/or modified Volkswagens in a special display within the Central Lot. Submit your ride for consideration at https://www.firstcoastcarculture.com/contact-us. Admission is free.

Car Shows 

National POW/MIA Recognition Day/Car and Bike Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sat. Sept. 18, at the Chapel of the High Speed Pass at 6112 POW-MIA Memorial Parkway at Cecil Field. Sponsored by the Veterans Councils of Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties, the show is free to spectators and $20 for all display cars, with proceeds go to the National POW/ MIA Memorial Fund. The American Legion Florida members also hosts a POW/MIA Remembrance Ride, departing at noon Saturday from the Veterans Memorial Wall at 1145 E. Adams St. The police-escorted ride will cross all of the city’s seven bridges before ending at the car show at the Chapel of the High Speed Pass, on the former home of Naval Air Station Cecil Field. The ride is free.  

North Jax Baptist Annual Car Show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sat. Sept. 18th, 8531 N. Main St. Free to both spectators and car entry, the burnout contest returning this year.

Cars and Cannons Vintage Car Show at Fort Clinch: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sat. Sept. 25, at Fort Clinch State Park, 2601 Atlantic Ave. in Fernandina Beach. More than 50 vintage and classic cars will be displayed inside the historic 19th Century fort. Park entry fee is $6 per vehicle (2 to 8 people), or $4 single-occupant vehicle along with $2.50 per person for fort admission. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset, while the fort is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information on registering a pre-1996 show vehicle by a Sept. 21 deadline for $35 per car, go to www.friendsoffortclinchinc.org. There will be no day of show registration. Registered participants receive a one-year membership with the Friends of Fort Clinch which includes 12 FREE park visits for the year.

Jacksonville’s MAD DADS (Men Against Destruction Defending Against Drugs and Social Disorder) annual Peace Ride for Life: 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 25, starting at Adamec Harley-Davidson at 8909 Baymeadows Road. Registration for the police-escorted motorcycle ride will be that morning at the dealership, kickstands up at 10:45 a.m. Rider registration is $10 per motorcycle and $5 more for a passenger. Registration can also be done via email at maddadsjacksonville@gmail.com. The annual ride circles through the city past sites where people have been murdered, organizers said.

Shindler Drive Baptist Church Community Cruise-in/Car Show: 8 to 11 a.m. Sat. Sept. 25, at the church at 7100 Shindler Drive.

Cruisin’ to the Creek 2021: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sat. Oct. 2, at Trout Creek Memorial Park and Marina at 6550 Florida 13 North in Saint Johns. The annual show benefits the Ronald McDonald House of Jacksonville.

American Legion 401 Car, Truck and Bike Show: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sat. Oct. 2, at American Legion Riders Post 401 at 37405 Henry Smith Road in Hilliard. Hosted by Callahan Cruisers of North Florida, spectators are free and show vehicles are $20, proceeds to benefit Wreaths Across America and 5 Star Veterans.

Azalea City Cruisers Car & Truck Show: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sat. Oct. 2, at the Putnam County Fairgrounds at 118 Fairgrounds Road in East Palatka. Free to spectators and $25 per show vehicle day of show.

Buggies on the Beach 7:  9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Show ‘n Shine show on Sunday, Oct. 3, at Kraft Athletic Club, 961023 Buccaneer Trail in Fernandina Beach. The Volkswagen show includes a Poker Run at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 2, proceeds going to the Nassau Humane Society. 

Clay County Shrine Club Oktober Fest Car Show and Craft Market: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat. Oct. 9, at 2471 Russell Road in Green Cove Springs.

25th Annual Amelia Cruizers 8-Flags Car Show: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sat. Oct. 16 along Centre Street in historic Fernandina Beach. Free to spectators and $25 for show vehicle if pre-registered at bit.ly/2UsiI9l. The annual show benefits the Justin Hess Scholarship Foundation.

Evangel Temple Assembly of God Middleburg Car Show: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sat. Oct. 16 at the church at 5040 County Road 218. Spectators are free; show vehicles are $20 per, the event hosted by Clay County Cruzers. 

Annual Car Show: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sat. Oct. 23, at Paxon Revival Center Church, 5461 Commonwealth Ave. Free.

St. Augustine Fall Fling Car Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 24, at the St Johns County Fairgrounds, 5840 Florida 207 in Elkton. Free to spectators and $20 day of show for display vehicles.

Dixie Chapter Pontiac Club Fall Classic: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sat. Nov. 6, at the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine, 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine. Open to all Pontiacs, Overland or GMC truck, it’s free to spectators and $25 for show vehicles day of show.

Jtech Cars, Stars and Stripes Car Show and Drive-in Movie: 3 p.m. Sat. Nov. 6, at Jtech at 8813 Western Way. Double feature with “Cars” and “Thunder Road, starts at dark, $15 per car. Hosted by First Coast Car Council

The FIRM (Florida International Rally and Moto Park): Open Track Days held most weekends at the road course and rally course at 7266 Airport Road in Starke.

Cruise-ins

First Coast Car Council, Clay County Cruzers, Callahan Cruisers and Amelia Cruizers all hold regular weekend cruise-ins, so check their Facebook pages.

Jacksonville Caffeine and Gasoline: 7 to 10 a.m. on every first Saturday at the Orange Park Mall at 1910 Wells Road in Orange Park. 

Clay County Cruzers’s other events: 3 to 6 p.m. every first Saturday at Big Dawg Sports Restaurant, 1330 Blanding Blvd.; 3 to 6 p.m. every second Saturday at Dick’s Wings, 1803 East-West Parkway in Fleming Island; 5 p.m. every third Friday at Freddy’s Steakburgers at 386 Blanding Blvd.; 9 to 11 a.m. every fourth Saturday at Nicole’s Café, 2216 S. Mimosa Ave. in Middleburg; and 2 to 5 p.m. every fourth Saturday at Gator’s Dockside Oakleaf, 316 Merchants Way, Jacksonville.

First Coast Car Council: 5 to 8 p.m. every first Saturday at Mission Barbecue, 8440 Blanding Blvd., Jacksonville; and 5 to 8 p.m. each second Saturday at Medical & Merchants Center of Mandarin, 11701 San Jose Blvd.

Cruise Night at Beachwalk: 5 to 8 p.m. every second Friday at the Beachwalk Amenity Center, 1000 County Road 210 in St. Johns.

Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville: 8 to 11 a.m. every second Saturday at The Avenues Mall at 10300 Southside Blvd. Information: https://bit.ly/3gPRvVQ.

Cruise Fruit Cove: 4 to 8 p.m. every third Saturday at the PDQ at 194 Florida 13 in Saint Johns, just south of Julington Creek.

Amelia Cruizers: 4 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday at Cold Stone Creamery, 808 Sadler Road, Fernandina Beach.

Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine monthly cruise-ins: St. Augustine Cruiser’s “Cruise In” from 5 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday, and Cars and Coffee from 8 to 10 a.m. every fourth Saturday, both at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine.

Cars and Coffee Fleming Island: 7 to 10 a.m. every third Sunday of the month at the New Vision Theatre at 1820 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island.

White Brothers Auto Parts Cruise-in: 5 to 8 p.m. every second Friday at 405 Lane Ave. N.

Johnny Angels: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. every third Friday at Johnny Angels diner at 3546 St. Johns Bluff Road S. 

Historic Springfield Main Street Cruise: 4 p.m. every fourth Saturday between 8th and 17th streets at Main Street in Jacksonville’s Springfield community.

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2021 Kia Sorento SX S-Line AWD is Family-Friendly Mid-Size SUV Excellence

A couple of months ago we were handed the keys of the all-new 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid and discovered that Kia’s latest take on the mid-size SUV is its best yet. This time we spend some time with the non-hybrid model, namely the turbocharged Sorento SX S-Line AWD. Built to be the most off-road friendly of the lineup, the SX S-Line with all-wheel-drive adds a bit more all-purpose usability to Kia’s already wonderfully practical family-friendly machine.

2021 Sorento X-Line – All Images Courtesy of KIA

The all-new Sorento SX S-Line includes a powerful drivetrain, seating for six, plenty of cargo space, tons of tech and it looks fantastic. Add in the all-weather all-wheel drive and the Sorento is ready for just about anything a daily-driving situation can throw at it and a bit more.

Kia’s incredible warranty takes away the reliability worry. As far as we are concerned, Kia’s Sorento is a nearly-perfect daily driver for a relative bargain with a starting price of less than $30k.

2021 Sorento X-Line

A Powerful Turbocharged Engine and Impressive Dual-Clutch Transmission

Kia’s X-Line Sorento is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to the 8-speed automated dual-clutch transmission, 0 to 60 takes place in a rather brief 6.3 seconds. That’s very respectable for a mid-size relatively affordable SUV. To be fair, mashing the throttle pedal from a green light is less than exhilarating, the engine seems to take a second to build power before unleashing all 311 lb-ft of torque. But once you’re moving the Sorento gets up and goes really well.

2021 Sorento X-Line

Fuel economy is also noteworthy. The Sorento’s 2.5 liter turbocharged 4-Cylinder and 8-speed dual-clutch transmission provide strong acceleration, but also use the latest technology to provide optimal fuel economy. Take it easy and the EPA-rated fuel economy is rated at 21/28/24 MPG (city/highway/combined). Given the utility, all-wheel-drive capabilities and power, 28 on the highway is a great number.

That said, if fuel economy is THE factor, the hybrid we previously reviewed is rated at an impressive 35/39/37 MPG (city/highway/combined).

2021 Sorento X-Line

An Interior for Families

Our mid-level SX trim offers one of the nicer non-premium interiors currently available. The materials are high quality and Kia’s attention to detail is apparent throughout. Seating is comfortable, the second row mimics the front rows great support and just enough padding. Like every mid-size SUV third row seating is limited in space, but Sorento does have a bit up on much of the competition when it comes to the ease of getting in and out.

Cargo space is 12.6 cubic feet with all the seats in place, that number jumps to 38.4 cubic feet when the second row is folded and 75.5 cubic feet when the back two rows are folded down.

Benchmark Technology and a Bigger Screen

While the Sorento’s performance and comfort have already won us over, the mid-size SUV’s incredibly long list of standard technology solidify zeal. The standard 8-inch touchscreen display is sharp, easy to read and intuitive. Infotainment features include satellite radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and ireless Android Auto.

2021 Sorento X-Line

Our SX model featured an even bigger 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. The larger screen gives the entire interior a more premium feel. Perhaps the 8-inch screen has almost become “normal” at this point. Adding a considerable amount of real estate to the screen makes the entire experience feel upgraded. Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and 8 USB ports make connecting devices a straightforward process. The abundance of USB connections allows the whole family to charge smart phones between destinations.

2021 Sorento X-Line

Kia’s “Drive Wise Driver Assist Technology” includes blind spot collision avoidance, rear cross traffic collision avoidance, auto emergency braking, automatic high beams, lane keeping and following assist. While many other manufacturers will include one or two of these safety technologies as standard, Kia has decided to open the feature faucet wide.

Pricing that Agrees with (most) Wallets

It’s no surprise that Kia’s formula for success relies heavily on strong value. A warranty that provides worry-free repair costs (or lack thereof) doesn’t hurt either. Kia’s industry-leading warranty program consists of a 10-year/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000 mile limited basic warranty, a 5-year/100,000 mile limited anti-perforation warranty and a 5-year/60,000 mile roadside assistance plan.

Base LX trim Sorento has a starting price of $29,390, which represents excellent value for a new and well-equipped 2021 mid-size SUV. Our Sorento SX X-Line test vehicle, which is one trim below the top SX Prestige trim, costs $44,285 including the $1,170 freight and handling charge.

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E-Class is for Excellence: A Closer look at the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E 450 Cabriolet and Wagon

Sometimes a car just feels right. You walk up to the door and it invites you in. Open the door, sit down and everything just makes sense. Push the start button, drive off and it feels like you’re traveling with a good friend.

2021 Mercedes-Benz E 450 4Matic Cabriolet hanging out in downtown Jacksonville, Florida. Photo by author.

Mercedes new E-Class is such a vehicle. We had the pleasure of spending a week with the refreshed E 450 Cabriolet and the E 450 Wagon and we are thrilled to report that both are E for excellent.

While not a complete redo, the new models feature revised front and rear styling. New tech can be found throughout including the latest MBUX infotainment system and an even longer list of enhanced driver-assistance technology. Like a cherry on the top of a sundae, Mercedes’ an all-new steering-wheel design is comfortable, attractive and finds favor with the next generation of drivers.

Check out that steering wheel! Photo by author.

Power and Performance

While we haven’t spent any time with the E 350, the base model sedan shows promise. Powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, the fuel-efficient four-door should provide more than adequate performance. The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, as are all E class vehicles in 2021. Rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available.

Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

Both of our review vehicles were in the E 450 family. The absolutely lovely E 450 Cabriolet and Wagon both feature stunning good looks and a fantastic turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that is paired to a “mild hybrid system.” Together the engine and motor produce 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.  Rear-wheel drive is standard, our review vehicles featured a well-sorted all-wheel-drive system proudly referred to by the manufacturer as “4Matic. “

AMG performance variants, namely the E53 and E63 models, are beyond the scope of this review. 

The E 350 sedan is EPA rated at 22 city 31 highway. The more powerful E 450 is rated at 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The E 450’s excellent fuel economy is thanks, in part at least, to the mild-hybrid system.

Driving the E 450

It certainly isn’t a perfect metaphor, but the E Class reminds us of our favorite pair of comfortable dress shoes. They look great and feel great. When you wear them it adds confidence to your step. The same can be said about driving the E class. Whether you’re in the convertible or the wagon, the vehicle envelopes you with luxury and provides a smooth compliant ride that helps soak up the miles.

2021 Mercedes-Benz E 450 All-Terrain. Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

Steering is precise and that new steering wheel helps connect the driver to the road, but it is also forgiving. Mercedes long list of driver aid makes the car feel like it is driving itself at times, as indeed it is. Like all tech, the E 450’s safety and convenience features are best use in concert with an alert human being making the decisions. Paired with a capable driver, the E 450’s safety technology is among the very best in the automotive industry.

2021 Mercedes-Benz E 450 4Matic Cabriolet. Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

Top Down, Fun Level Up

Mercedes’ E 450 Cabriolet is arguably one of the best looking soft top convertibles sold today. The proportions are substantial, creating a presence that draws attention but is far from pretentious.

2021 Mercedes-Benz E 450 4Matic Cabriolet hanging out in downtown Jacksonville, Florida. Photo by author.

Inspired by a yacht – we kid not- the cabriolet’s interior is nothing short of beautiful. The flowing dash rolls into the door panels. The heated/ventilated/massage front seats are entirely comfortable and endlessly adjustable. The two-door four-seat convertible provides plenty of room for both rear passengers. Even with the top up the E-class cabriolet feels spacious.

Cargo space is limited to 9.5 cubic feet and that’s with the top up.

A Wagon with a little extra

From the outside, the E 450 All-Terrain Wagon looks refined but ready. The body-cladded fenders and high beltline work with the extra ground clearance to create an athletic look.

2021 Mercedes-Benz E 450 All-Terrain. Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz.

Inside the E 450 All-Terrain really shines. Thanks to the nifty stowaway seating in the rear cargo area, the E 450 wagon seats up to seven passengers. Both first and second row seating is on par with the incredibly high standards that we have come to know Mercedes for. The third row, as cute as it is, works better for small children or occasional adults riders. Still, having two extra seats available in a pinch is a nice option.

2021 Mercedes-Benz E 450 All-Terrain. Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

Cargo space is an impressive 35.0 cubic feet behind the second row. That number expands to 64.0 cubic feet with the second row folded.

Technology that sets the standard

Mercedes has set the bar for vehicle technology for as long as we can remember. The immersive displays of the E 450 include a 12.3-inch configurable gauge cluster that is complimented by yet another 12.3-inch screen infotainment system. Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment is one of the most powerful and easy to use systems available. Whether using the steering wheel controls, the touchscreen or using voice prompts, MBUX is ready and listening. The system also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a wireless phone charger and augmented reality navigation.

A long list of standard active safety features include

emergency call service, active brake assist, blind spot assist, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a rearview camera.

Optional safety tech features include a dashcam, active distance assist, active steering assist, adaptive headlights, evasive steering assist, active blind spot assist and active lane keeping assist. Other highlights include active lane change assist, active brake assist with cross-traffic function, congestion emergency braking, active emergency stop assist and a surround view camera. Especially interesting is the adaptive cruise control that integrates route-based speed adaptation.

Pricing

Pricing for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz E 450 Cabriolet starts at $74,450.

The Mercedes-Benz E 450 All-Terrain Wagon starts at $67,600.

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The 2021 Infiniti QX80 Delivers V8 Powered Luxury for Families

We’ve always appreciated Infiniti’s full-size SUV, the QX80. The second generation of the brand’s flag ship SUV was launched for the 2011 model year and apart from a couple facelifts, has remained relatively unchanged. For 2021, Infiniti has added some new features and tech to enhance the family-friendly luxury vehicle but for the most part, the QX80 remains faithful to the big. powerful SUV we’re familiar with.

While it may not be the new kid on the block, Infiniti’s full-size SUV offers attractive design, a family-friendly cabin and a powerful V8 engine. Add in the SUV’s competitive pricing and broad range of standard features at a reasonable price and it is hard to find reasons not to add the QX80 to the “must consider” list when shopping for a luxury vehicle that can comfortably seat up to 8.

Infiniti offers the QX80 in three trim levels: Luxe, Premium Select and Sensory. All models are powered by a proven 400-horsepower 5.6-liter V8 engine and a 7-speed automatic transmission. Thanks in part to the SUV’s 413 lb-ft of torque and body-on-frame construction, the QX80 can tow up to 8,500 pounds. That towing capacity matches or bests most vehicles in the segment.

The rear-wheel-drive QX80 achieves an EPA-estimated 14/20 mpg city/highway on premium unleaded fuel, while four-wheel-drive models achieve 13/19 mpg city/highway. Fuel economy numbers are in line with those of similar V8-powered full-size luxury SUVs.

The QX80 is surprisingly quick. Infiniti’s V8 is more than adequate to handle the SUV’s 5,800 lbs. Zero to sixty ticks by in six seconds (give or take). The QX80’s muscle takes the stress out of pulling onto the highway and makes passing a breeze. And while it’s not really a key factor for family SUV’s, the growl of the engine and exhaust makes us smile.

A Quick Look at the QX80’s Trim Levels

Starting at the TOP, the new “Sensory” model offers the most equipment and refinement of the bunch. Semi-aniline leather-appointed seats, charcoal burl trim and a new graphite tricot headliner wrap occupants with high quality materials. Twenty-two inch alloy wheels and chrome mirror caps help set the exterior apart. Not apparent from the photos, Infiniti’s “Hydraulic Body Motion Control System” offers enhanced cornering stability and a smoother ride.

The entry level “LUXE” model includes a long list of standard technology. Blind spot intervention, lane departure prevention, distance control assist, a rear seat belt reminder and intelligent cruise control are all included. The QX80 has a two touchscreen infotainment system and a Bose 13-speaker sound system. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration complement the standard navigation, Bluetooth audio and satellite radio.

Our “PREMIUM SELECT” review vehicle included the tech features from the LUXE and adds exterior trim enhancements first seen on the limited-run 2020 QX80 ‘Edition 30.’ Dark chrome and black highlights the QX80’s front grille, Dark chrome 22-inch alloy wheels fender vents, door mirror caps and rear tailgate strip give the SUV a sporty appearance. Three interior trim colors are also available; Graphite, Truffle Brown and Sahara Stone.

Cabin and Cargo

The 10-way adjustable driver’s seat and tilt-telescopic wheel make finding a comfortable driving position easy work. We are fans of the thick cushion and shape of the QX80 front seats. They help make daily commutes palatable and long trips feel shorter.

Second-row captain’s chairs are standard, and these provide seven-passenger seating. An optional 60/40-split folding second-row bench seat is available for those who need seating for eight. All models come with a power-adjustable 60/40-split third-row bench seat that folds and reclines.

Infiniti’s QX80 offers 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, enough room for a handful of overnight bags. Families that can leave the third seat folded will find the 49.6 cubic feet of cargo space perfect for weekend out of town trips. With the second- and third-row seats folded, the QX80 provides 95.1 cubic feet of cargo space.

Pricing

The 2021 Infiniti QX80 Luxe starts at $69,050 plus a $1,395 destination fee. If you want to add all-wheel-drive, the AWD QX80 Luxe starts at $72,150.

Our review vehicle, the 2021 QX80 Premium Select, costs $73,350 with RWD or $76,450 with AWD (as tested). Infiniti’s top-trim QX80 Sensory model starts at $80,200 for a RWD and $83,300 with AWD. All in, ticking all option boxes, and a 2021 Infiniti QX80 Sensory costs about $90,000.

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Even the Base Model is Luxury: The 2020 Cadillac CT5

Known for his infectious sense of humor, captivating personality, and impeccable sense of style, my Italian-American grandfather owned a night club just outside of Boston, danced soft-shoe, sang with Jimmy Durante, and, of course, drove a Cadillac.

In the ‘50s and ‘60s, the Cadillac nameplate represented the finest made-in-America quality, luxury and prestige. Since the ‘70s, minus a slight misstep or two (*cough* Cimarron) Cadillac has continued to be a well-respected brand, especially among U.S. buyers wanting to drive a domestic luxury car.

The 2020 CT5 provides a refined ride while maintaining the world-class handling and fun-to-drive characteristics that define Cadillac sedans.

Over the years, the evolution at Cadillac has resulted in the replacement of the iconic names like Fleetwood, Eldorado and DeVille with letters such as CTS, STS, XLR, CTS and ATS and for this review the all-new 2020 Cadillac CT5. Whatever names or letters or numbers, the basic formula has remained the same, Cadillac continues to build attractive luxury vehicles that offer strong performance and the CT5 is no exception.

The 2020 CT5 provides a refined ride while maintaining the world-class handling and fun-to-drive characteristics that define Cadillac sedans. Photos courtesy of Cadillac.

The 2020 Cadillac CT5 is available with two engines and in four different trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, and V. For our review we spent a week in the Premium Luxury and V models.

Attractive Design Inspired by a Concept Car

Inspired by the Escala concept, Cadillac’s CT5 brings a coupe-like presence to the sedan’s silhouette. LED lights all around add to the modern design. It is hard to argue with the merits of the final product. The new CT5 is sleek and attractive.

Cadillac Escala concept car. Photo courtesy of Cadillac.

Performance Figures and Driving Impressions

The base CT5 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb⋅ft of torque. Two optional 3.0 twin turbo V6 engines are also available. Non V series are powered by a 335 horsepower and 400 lb⋅ft of torque version. A 360-horsepower and 405 lb⋅ft of torque variant can be found under the hood of the CT5-V. All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic.

The 2020 CT5 provides a refined ride while maintaining the world-class handling and fun-to-drive characteristics that define Cadillac sedans.

Fuel economy is rated up to 23 city /32 highway mpg with the four-cylinder. The turbo V6 is rated up to 18 city / 26 highway.

We split our time between the Premium Luxury and the V trims. The Premium Luxury was equipped with all-wheel-drive, the aforementioned 335-horsepower turbocharged V6 and 10-speed automatic. The engine provided plenty of power, sending the CT5 from zero to sixty in less than five seconds, but the overall package is geared towards comfort verses sportiness. The suspension is compliant, even soft. Steering is precise and the brakes use an electronic set up that removes any direct connection from the pedal to the master cylinder. That said, they work great.

Cadillac kicks everything up a bit with the V-Series model. The 360-horsepower variant of the V6 provides more punch. Zero to sixty clicks by in 4.6 seconds. The suspension is tuned for a sportier ride. GM’s 4th generation “MagneRide” system allows the driver to dial in the level of damping, but even at the most extreme settings the CT5 is not punishing or razor taut. The V-series Brembo brakes have a lot in common with the new Corvette and bring the lightweight CT5 to halt in short order.

The two vehicles share a lot of DNA, but the CT5-V is clearly the enthusiast’s choice. The overall driving dynamics are impressive, especially given the practicality of the sedan. We miss the fire-breathing V8 found in the CTS-V that the CT5 replaces, but the CT5-V is its own vehicle and is better considered apart from the sport sedan it sort of replaces.

Even the Base Model is Luxury (really)

The base Luxury model arrives with 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and push-button start.  The 10-inch infotainment system includes eight-speaker audio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard active safety equipment includes automatic emergency braking and a teen driver system that allows you to configure the CT5 specifically for a beginning driver.

Cadillac CT5 driver’s cockpit.

Our Premium Luxury extras include leather seating, heating side mirrors, a hands-free deck lid and wireless device charging. Our review vehicle also had the optional all-wheel-drive system. Opting for the Premium Luxury trim also gives the consumer a chance to add lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display and premium audio.

Pricing

The base Luxury model starts at $36,895 plus fees. The Premium Luxury starts at $40,695 and the V-Series at $47,695.

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Deremer Studios Chronicles the 2020 HSR Classic 24 at Daytona International Speedway

Nate Deremer, of Deremer Studios, LLC JCC’s official photographer, visited Daytona International Speedway November 4-8, 2020 for the HSR Classic 24 Hour at Daytona presented by IMSA.

The HSR (Historic Sportscar Racing, LLC) Classic 24 Hour is a yearly event open to cars that were raced from 1960 through 2013 at Daytona. A little tweak to the 24 Hour tradition, instead of running all the cars throughout the night the field is divided into race groups from specific periods that are run at four different times throughout a 24 hour period. Each race consists of 45 minutes of track time which includes a five-minute pit stop for non-mandatory driver changes.

See the full list of entrants here

Nate’s photos are always incredible and his shots at Daytona’s historic racetrack do not disappoint. View the photo album on the Deremer Studios, LLC website at

https://www.deremerstudios.com/Automotive-Photography/Motorsports-Photography/2020-HSR-Classic-24-Daytona/

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2020 Ponte Vedra Auto Show – November 15, 2020

Photo and information courtesy of The Ponte Vedra Auto Show.

 The Ponte Vedra Auto Show  is open and free to spectators. The show features up to 200 classic and collector cars! Jacksonville Car Culture’s Chris Brewer will be on hand to help judge the 50th Anniversary of the Z Car special display.

Show registration to display a vehicle is open until November 12, 2020 at https://pvautoshow.com/register-for-show-1

Where and When:

November 15, 2020 

9 am-3 pm

The show takes place on the Nocatee Event Field located at 

 245 Nocatee Center Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081 

Parking for the event is free!

About

The Ponte Vedra Auto show is presented by Art ‘n Motion in association with the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce and the St. Johns County Tourism Development Council.

For more information visit: https://pvautoshow.com/

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Lyn St. James named Official Honoree of the 26th Annual Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance May 20-23, 2021

Racer, writer, broadcaster, entrepreneur and motivational speaker Lyn St. James is the Honoree of the 26 th annual Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance scheduled for May 20-23, 2021.

Lyn’s life is a high speed motorsports adventure. Her racing career began in a Ford Pinto –her daily driver – in the 1970s and had its grand finale more than two decades later in a special commemorative ceremony on the “yard of bricks” at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. 

Lyn at the Indianapolis 500 in 1993. Photo courtesy of Lyn St. James.
Her first titles were a pair of regional south Florida road racing championships. She moved up quickly racing a Corvette at Sebring, Palm Beach and Daytona. A brave class victory in the punishing 1979 24 Hours of the Nurburgring racing an AMC Spirit AMX sponsored by BF Goodrich is an exotic and sometimes overlooked line on Lyn’s deep resume. By then corporate America liked what they were seeing and hearing from the racer from Willoughby, OH.

She graduated to the pro ranks in the 1980s as a Ford factory racer. In 1984 Autoweek magazine named her Rookie of the Year in IMSA’s GTO class. A year later she won IMSA’s Norelco Driver of the Year award. That was a very good year: an IMSA GTO victory came in August 1985 at Road America in the Lowenbrau Classic. A month later, on one of her favorite tracks, the full Grand Prix course at Watkins Glen, Lyn scored an unprecedented and still unequalled solo IMSA GTO class victory in the Serengeti Drivers New York 500 racing a Roush Mustang. The eighties also saw two class victories in the 24 Hours of Daytona. 
Lyn celebrates after winning the IMSA GTO class at the Serengeti Drivers New York 500 at Watkins Glen in 1985. Photo courtesy of Lyn St. James.

For Lyn the eighties were fast and productive. In 1988 she set a closed course speed record for women at 212.577 mph in a Bill Elliott-built Thunderbird. That was just one of 21 national and international speed records Lyn authored. She earned another page in the record books with an Indy 500 qualifying lap of 227.32 mph that stood as a record for women until Sarah Fisher’s lap of 229.675 mph qualifying for the 2002 “500.”

In 1989 she entered the 24 Hours of Le Mans driving a Ford-powered Spice. Another classic race course and even though her car retired on Sunday morning Lyn logged a lot of seat time. She returned to the classic French 24 Hours in 1991 with two-time World Sports Car Championship race winner Desiré Wilson and Cathy Muller, but their Cosworth-powered Spice prototype lasted just 47 laps. In 1990, Lyn earned yet another GTO class win in another famous classic endurance race, the 12 Hours of Sebring, with a Mercury Cougar XR-7.

Lyn gives a thumbs up after qualifying for the Indy 500 in 1992. Photo courtesy of Lyn St. James.

It was a visit to the Indy 500 with her mother in 1966 that revealed Lyn’s passion for motorsport. Her Indy 500 career began with a surprise test at Memphis Motorsports Park in a Dick Simon Racing Lola. Things began to move quickly. Lyn’s commercial, marketing and persuasive skills brought JCPenney to her Indy rookie program.

On Memorial Day 1992, Lyn raced her JCPenney sponsored Lola/Chevy — the Spirit of the American Woman — to eleventh place, becoming the first woman to win Indy’s prestigious Rookie of the Year award.

Even today she is quick to remind us that she still holds the record as Indy’s oldest Rookie of the Year winner. Eight years and seven Indy 500s later Lyn retired from Indy Car competition with career earnings of nearly $1.2 million.

Lyn St. James behind the wheel of the JCPenney sponsored Lola during the Indy 500. Photo courtesy of Lyn St. James.

Lyn’s strong entrepreneurial streak first emerged in an auto components business that fused with her passion for racing. Her ability to see and understand motorsport from the perspective of the cockpit and the boardroom has been a constant asset during her long tenure in and around motorsport. In 2010 those skills were honored by Automotive News as one of The Top 100 Women in the Automotive Industry. Sports Illustrated named her one of the “Top 100 Women Athletes of the Century.”

She has been a spokesperson for Ford, appeared in Rolex ads and is the founder of the Lyn St. James Foundation (a 501(c)(3) charitable organization) for the education, training and advancement of women in automotive fields. She has also served on the board of Kettering University, a top engineering school.

Lyn served as President of the Women’s Sports Foundation from 1990 to 1993. In 1994 Lyn was inducted to the Florida Sports Hall of Fame; Working Woman Magazine included her as one of the Top 350 Women Who Changed the World between 1976 and 1996. She’s been summoned to The White House for civic honors by three consecutive Presidents — Reagan, Bush and Clinton.

“Lyn has been an integral part of the racing community for years and followed in the steps of the likes of Elizabeth Junek, Janet Guthrie, and Lella Lombardi who won races, set records and broke barriers,” said Bill Warner, founder and Chairman of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.  “Lyn earned her stripes driving a wide variety of race cars starting in club racing with her daily driver, a Ford Pinto, and culminated with a successful career in Indy cars. Along the way, she shared long distance drives with some of the best drivers of the day. There is more than a quarter of a century of proof that she is the “real thing” behind the wheel.”

Tickets for the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance can be purchased at https://www.ameliaconcours.org/shop/tickets