BMW shows the new i4 eDrive40 and the i4 M50 EVs before their early 2022 debut

I must say that the new BMW i4 EVs are good-looking, mainstream sedans hewn out of a BMW block of stone. They look like other BMWs (with a touch of Camry thrown in); engineered to the hills with safety equipment, luxury, and tech; and the very latest EV items like batteries, non-rare-earth motors, etc. In case you forgot, BMW is an upscale, luxury, and performance automaker and the i4's prices will reflect that (mid five figure to start). Two models will be available when the i4 goes on sale in the first quarter of next year, the eDrive 40 (below) and the M50 (above). The M50 is the performance version with dual motors, all-wheel drive, more than 560 hp (plus Sport Boost), and a sub-four second 0 to 60 time. Expect M model fitments, superior handling and more. The "starter" i4, the eDrive40, gets 335 hp, rear-wheel drive, but at this price point, the i4 eDrive40 won't be a "stripper" or car with nothing on it. The interior is typical BMW with a splash of EV style (aka somwhar minimalist and with lots of screens). Range for the eDrive40 model is estimated at about 300 miles with the M50 getting less than 250 (estimated) miles. Fast charging of 200 KW will be available to get you on the go, quickly. Since this is a vehicle from the "Ultimate Driving Machine" marque, expect incredible handling aided by the low battery placement improving the car's center of gravity. BMW has teamed up with EVGo to give access to one of the largest charging networks that features 100% sustainable energy. For an incredible amount of information and two videos, click on "read more" below. BTW: this is one of the longest media releases i've ever seen, so answers to most questions should be there. Enjoy!

Source: BMW = Media release, pics, spec chart, and videos (2)

Lincoln upgrades 2021 Nautilus mid-size crossover/SUV

For 2021, Lincoln has refreshed the Nautilus mid-size crossover/SUV with updated styling and a new interior that echoes larger Lincoln vehicles. Yes folks, you can expect mega luxury and loads of safety equipment and the latest Lincoln technology in a nice-sized vehicle. Not everyone needs a Navigator. The updates are good-looking and the interior looks to be a "serene" place to be. The Nautilus comes in many portfolio trims that in "Black Label" trim offer specific environments to uplift your driving experience. Ford's new Sync 4 handles the infotainment duties along with Lincoln's safety and technology suite (including Co-Pilot 360) befitting the Nautilus's stature (see media release for specifics). Two engines will be available depending on trim level chosen: a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four that produces 250 hp and 280 lb/ft. of torque and a 2.7-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6 that makes 335 hp and 380 lb/ft. of torque both mated to an eight-speed automatic. That's where my problem with the new Nautilus lies. Where's the plug-in hybrid or the EV? The Nautilus appears to be similarly sized to Ford's Mustang Mach-e EV, so why not make the leap and make the Nautilus Lincoln's first EV? Could be supply issues or dealer resistance, but Ford/Lincoln missed an opportunity here. What do you think? For more info and two videos (one at the end of the release) make the jump and enjoy!

Source: Lincoln - Media release, digital experience, pics and videos (YouTube, 2) after the "read moire" jump.

Ford hits the (off) road with the 2021 Ranger Tremor - Update

Some of you may remember that this isn't Ford's first Tremor. A few years ago, the Tremor was an F-159 shortcab, with the smallest available bed, 2 bucket seats with console, and the performance version of the Ecoboost V-6. Due to it's size and (relatively) light weight, the F-150 Tremor was one of the quickest trucks Ford made at the time. Switch to 2021 and the Tremor becomes an off-road package on the mid-size Ranger XLT or Lariat pickup. The sub $5k Tremor Off-Road package adds Fox dampers, increased approach and departure angles, increased ride height, special 17-inch wheels and tires (32-inch General Grabber tires), a special interior, increased suspension articulation, and more. The Tremor features Ford's 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine with 270 horsepower and a torque rating of 310 lb.-ft., paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4x4 with an electronic locking rear differential. A graphics package is available (see pic after the "read more" jump) if you want your truck to scream Tremor. The Tremor package is more accomplished that Ford's FX4 Off-Road Package and answers the requests of off-road customers for something more. If this looks and sounds like your idea of the "perfect" mid-size, off-road truck, then contact your dealer for Tremor package availability. See the Ranger Tremor video in the next post. Update, There is a Tremor package available for Ford's F-Series trucks as well.

Source: Ford - Pics and media release