Month: February 2021

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Sports Sedan Greatness: The 2021 BMW M550i xDrive

I am a longtime fan of the iconic BMW 5 series. As a kid my dad owned a 1982 BMW 528i with a 5-speed manual transmission. The car was 10 years old at the time. It was black and had a mirror like shine, the result of hours spent wet sanding a respray. The car stood out, even around vehicles that cost much more.

For us BMW’s 5 series is in many ways the car you would own if you could only have one car – as in forever. Performance in on par or better than many purpose-built sports cars. The interior is luxurious but avoids gimmicks, for the most part anyway. The trunk provides plenty of cargo space. It looks great.

We recently spent some time with the latest 5 series, the 2021 BMW M550i xDrive sedan. Updated for the 2021 model year, the M550i represents the top trim apart from the heralded M5 sedan. The new model year features improvements in the exterior and interior design, new technology and a 530e model that includes a 48-volt mild hybrid system.

Our review vehicle, the M550i xDrive is powered by a formidable 523 horsepower 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 engine. The V8 produces 553 ft-lbs. of torque and is coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The all-wheel-drive sedan leaps from 0 to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds and is capable of reaching a top speed of 155 mph.

For the record, that’s blazingly fast. Especially for a car that fits in well while pulling up to the car pool lane at the local elementary school or parked at the local grocery store. No rolling circus, no carnival act, just a gorgeous ride that does little to attract undo attention. Those in the know will take a minute to look it over, but otherwise, it is a sleeper that will give most sports cars a run for the money.

The M550i xDrive’s all-wheel drive system is rear-biased. This equates to a car that is great in the snow, but rowdy like a rear-wheel-drive sedan when pushed. The M550i xDrive also features a rear M Sport differential. The electronically controlled rear differential improves traction and power by changing the grip of the left and right rear wheels and by preventing wheel spin. Paired with a fantastic adjustable suspension, incredibly precise steering and powerful brakes, the M550i is truly a BMW sports sedan worthy of the manufacturer’s benchmark status.

Unique Sleek Styling

While tastefully done, our M550i xDrive Sedan does feature some unique styling cues. A new aero kit and rear trunk lid spoiler enhance functionality and looks. Further setting apart the trim, “Cerium Grey” paint is applied to the side mirror caps, BMW kidney grille, front air intake inlays and to model lettering. Dual trapezoidal black chrome exhaust finishers accent the rear and high-gloss black window surrounds give the sides a distinctive look. Sans the typical brightwork, the M550i is stealthy.

A Refined User-Friendly Interior

Four-cylinder and six-cylinder models are fit with BMW’s “SensaTec” upholstery with contrast stitching. Our V8-powered M550i comes with real “Dakota” leather seating. Nappa leather is available on all models. The dashboard on the four- and six-cylinder 5 Series can be ordered in an optional black synthetic leather with brown stitching, which is also standard on our M550i xDrive.

All models feature comfortable and supportive sport seats. The M550i comes with BMW’s “M Multi-contour seats.” Both the standard and upgraded seating are among the best in the segment. BMW has worked for decades to perfect the sports sedan interior and it shows.  

Rear seating is spacious and comfortable as well. With room for three adults, the M550i is truly a family-friendly sports sedan. Cargo space in the trunk is relatively small at 14 cubic feet but is easily expanded thanks to the standard 40:20:40 split folding rear seat.

Technology That Works

The new 5 Series features a long list of standard technology. The Live Cockpit Professional with iDrive 7 features a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a 12.3-inch digital central touchscreen control display. That is a lot of hi-def video real estate. BMW’s infotainment features navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Enhanced USB and Bluetooth Smartphone integration and a WiFi Hotspot with complimentary 3-month/3GB trial are also included.

The intuitive system provides real buttons, touch screens, a large wheel and hand motion controls. Spinning your finger in a circle in front of the sensor for instance turns the volume up and down. A thumb’s up to the left advances the audio track or radio station. It only takes a few minutes to become acclimated with the hand motions and once you are it allows for the driver to keep their eyes on the road rather than looking for a knob or touchscreen area.

Active Safety Features

Standard active safety features include lane departure warning with steering correction, automatic high beams, frontal collision and pedestrian warning with braking function, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert and rear collision preparation. Optional tech includes driving assistance and parking assistance packages.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series lineup:

  • 248 hp 530i and 530i xDrive Sedans
  • 288 hp 530e and 530e xDrive PHEV Sedans
  • 335 hp 540i and 540i xDrive Sedans
  • 523 hp M550i xDrive Sedan

Pricing

Pricing for the 2021 BMW 5 Series sedan starts at $54,200 plus fees for the 530i Sedan. Our M550i xDrive sedan starts at $76,800, our loaded up review vehicle costs $93,735, including a $995 destination charge.

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2021 Cadillac XT6: Attractive Design and Three Rows for Families

Launched for the 2020 model year, the Cadillac XT6 is a family-friendly luxury SUV that seats up to seven. Thanks to the talented design team at GM, the 2021 Cadillac XT6 looks dynamic on the road and adds to a homes curb appeal when parked in the driveway.

The XT6 is available in three trim levels, Luxury (New for 2021), Premium Luxury and Sport.

An SUV That Does its Part to Improve Property Values

Cadillac has done an nice job styling the XT6. The front fascia presents the new face of the company’s SUVs, something that we also see on display on the 2021 Escalade. Luxury and Premium Luxury models feature bright metallic or Galvano finished grilles and other exterior trim brightwork. Sport models, like our review vehicle, feature black exterior trim and a V-Series-inspired mesh grille. With a bright exterior paint color, like Crystal White Tricoat (as shown), the Sport’s black accents frame the crossover nicely. Our suggestion would be to select a set of gloss black wheels to complete the look. Opting for the $3995 Onyx package elevates the Sport’s design to the next level.

All XT6 models feature LED lighting, front and back, including the brand’s signature “light blades” in the front. Used as the daytime running lamps, the blades provide a unique signature day or night.

Eighteen-inch wheels are standard on the Luxury trim, and 20-inch wheels on Premium Luxury and Sport (as reviewed). Sport models can also be equipped with 21-inch wheels.

Turbocharged for Efficiency or Extra Displacement for Power

Cadillac’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is standard in the base “Luxury” model. The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Power is rated at 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Luxury and Premium Luxury models are available with front-wheel or all-wheel-drive. Fuel economy on four-cylinder models with front-wheel drive is the best of the XT-6 models, rated at 21 city and 27 highway.

Our “Sport” test vehicle and the Premium Luxury model are both powered by GM’s proven 3.6-liter V-6. The normally-aspirated V6 generates 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed transmission with “Twin-Clutch Sport Control AWD” takes care of gear changes. Sport models are only available with all-wheel-drive. Fuel economy is rated at 18 city and 25 highway.

During our week behind the wheel, we found the V6 powered XT6 enjoyable to drive. The power is more than adequate for daily driving. Highway passing was easy and predictable. Precise steering, a comfortable suspension and strong braking made the SUV a welcome companion around town.

Towing capacity is limited with the 2-liter at 1,000lbs, but the V6 XT6 is rated at a quite useable 4,000 lbs when equipped properly. An optional “Smart Towing” package is available on Premium Luxury and Sport trims. The package includes a helpful hitch guidance system with hitch view, the hitch itself, a hitch cover and a seven-wire harness.

Less is More: An Upscale Interior that Seats Six or Seven

The XT6 is Cadillac’s smaller three-row alternative to the brand’s impressive flagship Escalade. Its easier to park and a tad gentler on the wallet, both at the dealer and the gas pump. But the smaller XT6 does lack some of the Escalade’s all-around benchmark family accommodations in the third row and cargo capacities.

Front row passengers will enjoy the spacious seating area. Gauges and controls are well thought out and implemented.

The second row seats can be configured with the standard three-passenger bench or a pair of captain’s chairs. While families that really need to seat seven will have no choice, we recommend the captain’s chairs. The two seats essentially mimic the fantastic seating experience of first row. In this 2 vs 3 comparison, for us less is more.

With only 29.5-inches of legroom, third row seats are best reserved for children. For comparison, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV has 36.6 inches of rear legroom. They are fine for adults in a pinch, but not spacious enough for a cross-country adventure.

When all the seats are in place the XT6’s cargo space is surprisingly limited, even for a mid-size three-row SUV. The SUV’s 12.6 cubic feet is enough for a few carry-on bags, but not much more. Drop the third row however and that number jumps to a more reasonable 43.1 cubic feet. Fold the second and third rows and you’ll have 78.7 cubic feet for that overzealous haul home from IKEA. Add in the standard power liftgate and it is almost too easy to bring home a new desk and bookshelf (assembly required of course).

Technology

We appreciated the ease of use and functionality of the latest version of the Cadillac’s infotainment system. An 8-inch color touchscreen system with enhanced personalization is standard. User profiles can be stored, allowing each driver to access their custom configurable profile. The available 14-speaker Bose sound system fills the XT6’s cabin with clear and loud audio.

Safety equipment includes a rear vision camera, auto high beams, automatic emergency braking, front and rear brake assist and forward collision alert. Additional standard safety tech includes front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning and a safety alert seat system that reminds you to take a peek in the back before heading off.

Pricing

The 2021 XT6 has a starting MSRP of $48,9902, including destination. Our review vehicle, the 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport with options costs $72,165.

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2021 GMC Yukon Denali Puts the Utility Back in SUV

Today’s automotive landscape is dominated by lightweight, fuel efficient crossover vehicles. Part car, part SUV, a little station wagon, with a dash of hatchback, the crossover is everything and sometimes not enough. The U in SUV can be hard to find when there is less cargo space than a hot hatch or towing is limited to a bike rack or excluded altogether.

2021 GMC Yukon Denali photos courtesy of GMC

Cue the full-size body-on-frame SUV. Rugged and ready, vehicles like the new 2021 GMC Yukon Denali provide comfortable seating for up to eight. Even with all the seats in place, the Denali still provides more than 25 cubic feet of cargo space AND it can tow up to 8,400 lbs when properly equipped. That might actually warrant the use of the term SUUUV. Though we doubt it will catch on.

2021 GMC Yukon Denali

Denali Stands for Luxury

Introduced on the 1999 Yukon, “Denali” is GMC’s premium luxury sub-brand. Denali’s elevated design and craftsmanship have helped lure more than 60 percent of Yukon buyers to the upscale models. We are unabashed fans to the Yukon Denali’s upscale accommodations. The attention to detail, choice of materials and overall fit and finish rival anything in the full-size luxury SUV segment, especially at the price.

2021 GMC Yukon Denali

The 2021 model marks the first time that Denali models have an entirely exclusive interior. Highlights include a new instrument panel, unique seating and a choice of four unique color themes. Each theme includes authentic wood trim. Additionally, the Denali’s leather surfaces are cut and stitched by hand.

Of note is the Denali’s new “Power Sliding Center Console.” The main console between the driver and passenger seats can slide back up to 10 inches, offering a convenient expanded storage area. When slid back the console reveals access to a space large enough for a handbag. An additional hidden drawer underneath the main storage bin provides a secure location for valuables.

2021 GMC Yukon Denali

Yukon’s second and third rows provide comfortable seating for children and adults. Getting in and out is relatively easy. Storage space is also abundant. GMC’s Yukon is one of the best examples of “family-friendly” that we’ve ever reviewed.

Evidently “Denali” also means Power and Driving Dynamics

Our Yukon Denali’s 6.2-liter V8 engine creates 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The engine features fuel-saving technologies including stop/start and “Dynamic Fuel Management” that automatically tells the engine to operate on two to eight cylinders depending on driving conditions to optimize power and efficiency.

2021 GMC Yukon Denali

The capable V8 is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission operated by a push-button gear selector. Together they form a dynamic duo: the Yukon is fast. Shifts are intuitive and driving dynamics are completely satisfying.

GM’s fabulous “Magnetic Ride Control” works to balance and enhance the massive SUV’s handling capabilities. The system has been continually perfected over the years and is now one of the fastest-reacting damping systems in the industry, reacting much faster than traditional shock absorbers. The effect reduces bouncing, body roll and the vibrations often associated with a true “body-on-frame” SUV.   

2021 GMC Yukon Denali

Fuel economy with the V8 is rated at 14 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 16 mpg combined.

Technology and Extras

GMC’s attractive and intuitive infotainment is controlled by a 10.2-inch touchscreen. The system incorporates Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, an extra we’ve grown to appreciate as of late. Additional features included on our review vehicle were power-retractable side steps, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control and a long list of active safety tech. Highlights include a 360-degree camera system, rear camera mirror, a spectacular color heads-up display, an in-vehicle trailering app and dual 12.6-inch rear-seat entertainment touchscreens.

2021 GMC Yukon Denali

Pricing

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali starts at $71,400. Our fully-loaded test vehicle costs $83,795. Both numbers may present sticker shock if you haven’t visited a new vehicle dealer in the last few years, but as those who’ve shopped the competition know, the Yukon Denali represents great value in the full-size luxury SUV segment.

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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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The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer Shines with Camaro Spirit

“Is that a Camaro SUV? Oh, wait, it’s the new Blazer!”

At first blush the 2021 Chevrolet Blazer’s styling, especially with the RS badging, summons the most recent iteration of the brand’s pony car. When Chevy announced the Blazer’s return the general consensus was that General Motors would recreate the iconic 4×4’s design with a futuristic twist, much like how the 2010 Camaro borrowed heavily from the original 1967 model. Instead, Chevrolet designed a sporty crossover with aggressive styling that is entirely new and now, fitting nicely within the brand’s current lineup.

Spending a week with Chevy’s mid-size SUV proved General Motor’s styling choices. Every stop at the gas station was met with a stranger asking about the crossover, specifically wanting to know if “it drove as well as it looked.”

The answer? “Yes, indeed it does.”

A Family Friendly Crossover Imbued by Pony Car Spirit

Chevy’s base model 2021 Blazer is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 193 horsepower and 188 pound-feet of torque (L, 1LT). A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 230 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque is also available (2LT, 3LT).

Our review vehicle was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 with 308 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque (standard in RS and Premier; available in 2LT and 3LT). Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available on certain trims. All models use a nine-speed automatic transmission.

The Blazer shines when it comes to fuel economy, especially with the base 2.5-liter engine. The front-wheel drive base model is rated at 22/39 mpg city/highway. Our all-wheel-drive V6-powered variant returns the worst of the lineup at 19/26 mpg city/highway, still noteworthy considering the size of the vehicle and the power.

Chevy’s sporty mid-size SUV offers better than average driving dynamics. Precise steering and a sporty suspension work with the 300 plus horsepower V6 engine to keep things interesting. It is easy to forget that you are behind the wheel of a mid-size SUV, perhaps the “crossover” term is more apt to describe the driving experience. In short, the Blazer drives like a sporty family sedan.

Take a Peek Inside

Front seat passengers will appreciate the legroom. The driver’s seat takes another page from the Camaro play book. The driver-centric controls are thoughtfully placed. The vents in the dash are adopted from the pony car. The center pair work as giant knobs to modulate the cabin’s climate control temperature. Rear seating is great for two adults or three children and adequate for three adults if the time spent is limited. Base Blazer models include fabric upholstery, higher trim levels get leather.

Cargo room measures 30.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 64.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. Those numbers equate to decent real-world utility. Consumers looking for more space, but hoping to stay in the Chevy family, might want to entertain moving to the 3-row Traverse. Other manufacturer offerings with additional cargo space include the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Honda Pilot.

Excellent Infotainment and Standard WiFi

We’ve been fans of Chevrolet’s infotainment for a while. Standard features include an 8-inch touch screen and six-speaker audio. Standard connectivity includes Bluetooth, four USB ports, a WiFi hot spot, and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

The standard WiFi hotspot and OnStar system proved helpful, especially when our cell phone decided that we had wandered a little too far off the beaten path and lost service. Our guess is that the car’s antenna was a little happier with the situation as the WiFi never skipped a beat. That said, the debate will also rage over proprietary systems versus the power of today’s smartphones. For many the power of today’s phones, the ease of use and reliability are hard to beat. Never mind the familiarity and options, many of which are already bought and paid for.

Infotainment upgrades include navigation, wireless device charging, satellite radio, and a premium eight-speaker Bose sound system.

Pricing

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer starts at $28,800 plus fees. The RS model, with the V6 engine starts at $40,800 plus fees. Our RS AWD model costs $48,700 with fees included.

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2021 Roar Before the Rolex 24 Hyperlapse Video – From Our Official Photographer, Deremer Studios, LLC

First Coast Car Culture’s official photographer, Deremer Studios, was hired by BMW to cover the Rolex 24 at Daytona at the Daytona International Speedway. Their team traveled to the “Roar” event the preceding weekend and created this fantastic video:

“With just a week before the IMSA Rolex 24 at Daytona and our race weekend work for BMW, I took my oldest down for a rare day as a spectator at the Roar Before the Rolex 24. But I still couldn’t resist… I took my camera… and 1,500 photos… which I have compressed into this short hyperlapse video. These are unedited – a gallery with the final products will come soon. Even with the competition bubble in place, some of my favorite general public shooting locations are still available and in my opinion, it’s still well worth the ticket price.” Nathan, Deremer Studios, LLC.

Check out Deremer Studios, LLC’s video: