March 2021 • Jacksonville (First Coast) Car Culture

March 22, 2021March 22, 2021

2021 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Offers 797 Horsepower and Much More

The automotive world took notice when Dodge introduced the first “Hellcat” vehicles in 2014 for the 2015 model year. With a supercharged 707-horsepower V8 engine, the Hellcat Charger would become the most powerful production sedan ever created. Anticipation of seeing the new “cats” on the public roadways was palpable and their e arrival was loud, aggressive and often scary. Dodge’s new cats sent power to the rear wheels with a smoke-inducing vengeance, even with the tiniest of throttle.

Six years have passed and Dodge has expanded the Hellcat line up to include SUVs and with the all-new Dodge Ram 1500 TRX, pickup trucks. All of the variants boast over 700 horsepower. We’ve enjoyed doing the homework while reviewing the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk and we’re currently testing the ferocious TRX, but nothing pulls our enthusiast heartstrings like the tried and true four-door-five-passenger SRT Hellcat Charger.

Unsurprisingly, the 2021 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody with its unique bodywork that features massive fender flares, put a smile on our faces that wouldn’t go away until we had to give it back. Even then we’d sit around and say things like “remember when we had the Hellcat Redeye Widebody?” and the goofy perma-grin would return.

Otherworldly Power and Performance

Powered by a 797-horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque version of the inspired 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine, the Redeye retains the title of the “most powerful and fastest mass-produced sedan in the world.” For lack of a better word, this engine is a beast. The supercharger whine is haunting. The exhaust sets off the neighbor’s car alarms and rattles house windows.

There is a good reason the Dodge marketing team opted to include the word “hell” in the sales brochure. Put the HP90 8-speed automatic transmission in drive, tap the throttle and the 20-inch wheels wrapped in 305/35ZR20 tires start to spin, usually without the car going anywhere. They will get traction eventually and when they do the car launches like a rocket ship. It is often scary as _ _ _ _.

Spacious Interior and Plenty of Cargo Space

While the supercharged V8 tends to get most of the attention, the Charger’s ponies are capable of more than a single trick. The spacious interior and ample cargo space make the Hellcat Charger one of the more useful family sedans on the market.

Considering the already family-friendly V6-powered Charger starts right around $30k, the Hellcat Widebody’s base price of $70k and the Redeye’s $80k jumping off point gives Dodge plenty of capital for improvement. With a long list of additional upgrades, our well-equipped test vehicle rang in at $87,165. At that price you expect more than a pretty face and a massive engine. For almost $90k you want heated and ventilated leather seats, suede and carbon fiber trim and unique visual cues. You are looking for that kind of substance and the Redeye delivers.

Rear seating is truly three people ready and the Charger’s trunk offers an incredible 16.5 cubic feet of useable cargo space. That’s enough room to accommodate a long weekend’s worth of luggage for a family of five.

Infotainment that Shines

We are longtime fans of Dodge’s intuitive and easy to navigate infotainment. The “Uconnect” system features at 8.4-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. The system is found in much cheaper Dodge products where it completely rises above most of the competition. At $87k the system still shines, but feels more like it is “enough” than the segment show stealer that it is in a $25k vehicle. That said, the Hellcat’s special system features a long list of SRT performance apps that the lesser offerings don’t have.

We were also pleased with the optional 19-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system. The premium audio upgrade gives the speakers a chance to rise above the raucous of the supercharged V8, most of the time anyway.

Active Safety Technology

Dodge’s SRT Hellcat is equipped with blind-spot monitors, rear parking sensors and rear cross-traffic alert. Options include automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning.

Do You Need a 2021 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody?

Obviously the 797-horsepower Redeye isn’t for everyone. That said, it is a lot more useful than the initial marketing would suggest. How many drag strip ready cars are also perfectly equipped for the elementary school car pool lane? How about a rear seat that has room for THREE adults? Or a trunk that fits seven carry on bags?

Seems like we all need one…

March 13, 2021March 13, 2021

Deliberately Different: The Fantastic 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63S Coupe

Sometimes a new vehicle takes a day or two to grow on us. Whether it’s a complete redesign, a new drivetrain or simply an odd color combination, certain vehicles force us to take a step back and reevaluate what we know.

When the new 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe arrived, we had to sit down.

The design is different. There are angles that are completely predictable, in the best Mercedes-AMG way possible, then there are views that set the GLE 63 S Coupe apart. Not so much from the brand, but from convention. First things first, lets talk about the reimagining of the word “coupe” in today’s automotive lexicon.

When we were kids a “coupe” was a two-door vehicle with a sloping rear roofline. A sedan had four doors, a coupe had two. The term dates back, way back, used to describe two passenger horse-drawn carriages that lacked rear-facing seats. There may have been some slight deviations on the theme over the years, but it was fairly consistent.

Fast-forward to today… “Coupe” is more of a general philosophy than a hard and fast definition. The rear sloping roof is present, but the AMG GLE 63 S “Coupe” has four doors and for all intents and purposes qualifies as a hatchback. That said, no one would enjoy telling their coworkers that they just purchased a “brand new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Crossover Hatchback SUV.” I’m not sure that would fly with the marketing folks either. Producing a 15 second sizzle reel with voiceover would be nearly impossible.

Now that we’ve completely overexplained what the GLE 63 S Coupe isn’t, let’s take a few minutes and write about what it is.

In a word, the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe is fantastic.

Turbocharged V8 Power

Powered by a handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine paired with an electrified “EQ Boost” starter-generator and a 48-volt on-board electrical system, the GLE 63 S Coupe is a rocket ship. The V8 produces an exhilarating 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. The 48-volt system combines the starter and alternator into a single electric motor integrated between the engine and transmission. The unit temporarily generates an additional 21 hp of output and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed for brisk acceleration. That’s a nice extra kick when called upon.

AMG’s “speedshift TCT” 9-speed transmission lives up to the marketing, providing near-instant shifts. The air suspension and roll stabilization can be adjusted by the driver to provide an absolutely docile luxury experience or an enthusiast-pleasing ride that allows the vehicle feel more like a sports sedan than the crossover SUV hot hatch coupe that it is. Thanks to the AMG’s intelligent all-wheel drive system, even on a damp or sandy surfaces and wintry roads, traction is incredible.

Driving the GLE 63 S Coupe is exciting and fun. The powerful engine combined with the precise speed-sensitive steering, adaptable suspension and incredible braking instill confidence in the driver and peace in the passengers. The enhanced all-wheel drive and abundance of safety features make driving AMG’s family-friendly crossover as safe as it is fun.

While the GLE 63 S Coupe does not lack in the power or excitement, fuel economy is a little less than inspiring with an EPA estimated rating of 15 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.

An Exterior that is Different, But Definitely AMG

At first glance, the AMG-specific radiator high-gloss chrome grille and jet-wing inspired front bumper let you know that the GLE 63 S Coupe is a Mercedes from the AMG family. “Powerdomes” in the hood hint at the turbocharged V8 underneath. Body painted side skirts, exterior mirror housings and wheel arches are attractive and give the Coupe a muscular stance. Standard 22-inch AMG wheels fill the wells and frame the oversized brakes. Overall, while a little different, the attractive GLE 63 S Coupe makes a confident statement.

Benchmark Luxury, Driver Centric Ergonomics

It is hard to find fault in the GLE 63 S Coupe’s interior. The nappa leather seats are incredibly comfortable, yet provide the support needed to take advantage of the vehicle’s almost brutal performance. AMG-branded interior appointments, including the three-spoke AMG steering wheel with aluminum shift paddles, help emphasize the driver-oriented ergonomic design.

Three adults fit comfortably in the rear seats. The cargo area is spacious compared to a sedan or traditional coupe, but somewhat reduced compared to the standard GLE models thanks to the swooping rear of the vehicle. Still, cargo space with all seats in place equates to 33.3 cubic feet and 74.9 cubic feet with the second row folded.

Sidebar: Seven Driving Modes

“Comfort”: Comfy and fuel-efficient driving. Suspension and steering are set up for an emphasis on comfort.
“Sport”: More agile response to the accelerator pedal, shorter shift times, earlier and more precise downshifts owing to double-declutching. More dynamic suspension setup.
“Sport+”: Even more agile throttle response, double-declutching on downshifts and targeted torque interventions on upshifts with cylinder deactivation for optimized shift times. Increased idle speed for faster launches. An even more dynamic setup for suspension, steering and powertrain.
“Individual”: Ultimate control over the vehicle’s various parameters.
“RACE”: Designed for driving on closed race circuits. All the parameters are set for maximum performance.
“Trail”: Maximum performance on soft, muddy or slippery ground. The suspension is raised to a higher level but lowers at higher speeds.
“Sand”: Configured for sporty driving on loose, sandy surfaces. The suspension is raised to a higher level but again, lowers at higher speeds.

(Even Better Than) Benchmark Technology

We’re fans of the Mercedes-Benz infotainment and the latest MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system does not disappoint. Controlled by a high-definition 12.3-inch touchscreen and touchpad along with a set of easy to use buttons and knobs on the center console and steering wheel, the system is intuitive and powerful. It is complicated and even after a week’s long review we had barely scratched the surface of the unit’s capability, but it is simultaneously accessible for many basic needs and wants.

The system can also be controlled with a series of handy and often entertaining voice prompts. Simply saying “Hey Mercedes” and any of the long list of verbal commands allows for hands free operation of many of the vehicles features. The system also includes excellent smartphone integration with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Mercedes integration of active safety technology is among the best of any vehicle in the industry. The comprehensive list of standard safety features provides an extra set of virtual eyes (a half dozen sets really). Surround view cameras, lane keep assist, blind spot monitors, active cruise control, braking assist and much more are included. While the GLE 63 S can’t drive itself, it can certainly provide plenty of assistance.

Pricing

All of this incredible power, technology, luxury and performance does come at a price. The 2021 GLE 63S Coupe starts at $116,000 and our review vehicle had the final sticker of $128,500.

Exclusive money for an exclusive (fantastic) vehicle.

March 4, 2021March 4, 2021

NOW FEATURING EVEN BETTER PERFORMANCE: The Family-Friendly 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Sport

We’ve always appreciated the design and overall utility of the Subaru Crosstrek. It is a hatchback, station wagon and crossover SUV all in one. With plenty of room for five adults, generous cargo space and the ability to tow a small trailer, the Crosstrek checks a lot of boxes.

Where we did feel Crosstrek could use a little improvement was under the hood. The only available 2-liter boxer engine was efficient, but lacked the punch that we felt the Crosstrek deserved. That’s not to say that the smaller engine, rated at an incredible 27/33 mpg city/highway wasn’t a good option. But we wanted to see how Subaru’s excellent suspension, steering and brakes would perform with another 30 horsepower or so.

Subaru was listening. Reaching into the parts bin, they borrowed the engine from the 2019 Legacy and introduced the lively 2.5-liter 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER as standard equipment on Sport and Limited Crosstrek trim levels. With 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque, the new powerplant gives the Crosstrek that much needed power that we felt the chassis deserved. Thanks to careful tuning and the standard Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission), the 2.5-liter Crosstrek is rated at an EPA-estimated 27/34 mpg city/highway.

Subaru will continue to offer the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder BOXER engine that produces 152-hp and 145 lb-ft f torque in the Base and Premium trims. Base and Premium trims can be fit with a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional Lineartronic CVT. Crosstrek with the 6-speed manual are rated at 22 /29 mpg city/highway. CVT models achieve 28/33 mpg city/highway.

Ready for ANYTHING (almost *see below)

All-wheel drive is essentially synonymous with Subaru. All Crosstrek models are equipped with Subaru “Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive” and “Active Torque Vectoring.” The system provides excellent all-weather driving capabilities. Our northern friends have long relied on Subaru’s reliability in the winter. Coupled with a very truck-like 8.7 feet of ground clearance, the Crosstrek may not be a true offroad vehicle, but it can help keep you on the road in the worst rain, snow and sleet.

The Sport also includes a dual-function “X-Mode.” The system includes hill decent control with snow/dire and deep/snow mud settings. *Together with all-wheel-drive, the Crosstrek is well prepared for just about anything, within reason, that suburban living can throw at it!

Attractive, but Understated Inside and Out

The Crosstrek is instantly recognizable as a Subaru. The boxy design and signature grille bring back fond memories of the Outbacks and Foresters that many of us pined after as kids. Our review vehicle, the Crosstrek Sport adds some distinct exterior and interior features. Specific wheel arch moldings, 17-inch dark gray alloy wheels are at each corner. Gunmetal finish treatment is found on the front grille, side mirrors and badges.

Inside, the Sport features long-wearing StarTex upholstery with yellow stitching. Of interest, Subaru’s StarTex upholstery is manufactured without polyvinyl chloride (PVC), phthalate or chlorine. Yellow stitching has been added to the trim panel armrests, steering wheel, shift boot, visor and center console storage box. Gunmetal and simulated carbon fiber trim accents dress up the interior along with unique floormats that feature the Sport logo.

Safety and Technology

Our Sport review vehicle and all models equipped with the CVT come with Subaru’s “EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.” Improved for 2021, the system includes adaptive cruise control with lane centering. Other standard feature includes automatic pre-collision braking, pre-collision throttle management, lane departure prevention, lead vehicle start alert and auto start-stop. A family-friendly rear seat reminder reminds the driver to take a peek out back before heading out of the vehicle.

The Base 2021 Crosstrek comes with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and 6-speaker audio. Our review vehicle included an upgraded 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation. Overall the system is entirely usable and sounds good, but could use refinement when compared to recent systems by segment competitors like Hyundai and Jeep.

Pricing

The Subaru Crosstrek represents strong value for an all-wheel drive crossover. Starting at $22,245 plus fees, it is hard not to be convinced that the Crosstrek is at least worth a hard look. Our review vehicle cost $29,145 all in.

March 2, 2021June 13, 2021

2021 Cadillac Escalade Equals Prestige Prominence Quality

If they tap us to write the next edition of Roget’s Thesaurus a quick peek at the word “Status” will include “dignity, prestige, prominence, quality and Escalade.” The last word may not make it into many middle school research papers, but Cadillac’s flagship SUV has certainly earned the recognition. There are certainly more examples of full-size-body-on-frame SUVs that have earned the “status” moniker in the segment, but the Escalade belongs on the list and, for many, at the top spot.

Cadillac’s 2021 Escalade Sport takes the Escalade formula and adds a dash of performance-themed style. The black mesh grille and black trim across the exterior contrast the main body color for a rough and tumble look that gives the model a different spin than anything else in the lineup.

V8 Power for the Win

In a time when more and more “flagship” SUVs are powered by tiny turbocharged engines, the Escalade doubles down with its delightful 6.2-liter V8 and 10-speed automatic transmission. A nice combination of old school displacement coupled with the newest fuel saving technologies, the engine produces 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Variable valve timing, dynamic fuel management and start/stop technology help maximize efficiency.

When all is said and done, the Escalade is EPA rated at 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway. Towing is rated at 8,300 lbs.

Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride Suspension Help Tame the 5,800 lb Beast

How does a vehicle that weighs almost six thousand pounds feel this light on its feet? Lots of technology and brilliant engineering. The three key factors are a new independent rear suspension, magnetic ride control and a new air ride suspension.

An all-new independent rear suspension transforms the driving dynamics of the Escalade. Each rear wheel handles road conditions independently. The change enhances ride quality, steering responsiveness and overall driver control.

We are long-time fans of Cadillac’s signature Magnetic Ride Control. Dubbed as “the world’s fastest reacting suspension technology” the system uses sensors to “read” the road and alter the damping rate of the shocks along the way. GM has been perfecting the system for years and it is at the point that it reacts almost instantaneously to reduce vertical body motion, body roll and vibrations.

Finally, Cadillac’s new air ride adaptive suspension combines with the vehicle’s magnetic ride control for automatic load-leveling and ride-height adjustments continuously at all four wheels. On the highway, the system lowers the ride height for improved aerodynamics. Take the Cadillac over uneven terrain and the body can be raised to allow for additional ground clearance. Additionally, the system allows the SUV to be lowered two inches for easier entry and exit.

Combined with spectacular handling and braking, both of which make the Cadillac feel more like a large station wagon than a massive SUV, the Escalade is treat to drive in the city, on the highway, while towing a boat or navigating a washed-out dirt road.

A Luxurious Interior for Seven or Eight

The Escalades cavernous interior evokes a feeling of quality. The proportions are right, seating positions and controls land where they should and thanks to the new design there are no more “cheap seats.”

Apart from the base model’s leatherette, all Escalades receive row after row of genuine leather seating. Top trim models have 16-way adjustable front seats with massage. Center-row captain’s chairs are standard and a center row bench provides a no-cost-seating-for-8-option.

The new independent rear suspension requires less physical space than the live-axle arrangement of the previous Escalade, resulting in a lower floor for rear seats and 10 inches of additional legroom. The cargo area is also expanded providing 25.5 cubic feet of storage with all seats in place, that’s quite the jump from the 15.2 cubic feet of the previous Escalade. Fold down the third row and that number jumps to 63 cubic feet of cargo room.

We talk a lot about “family-friendly” vehicles at First Coast Car Culture but few, if any, are as friendly as the 2021 Escalade. Cadillac’s latest flagship SUV makes for the perfect family road trip vehicle: riding in style, trailer in tow.

New Technology that Shines

Front and center of the new Cadillac Escalade is a massive curved “Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED)” infotainment screen. Made of three digital panels, the screen has more than 38 diagonal inches of visual real estate. To our eyes, the display is one of the nicest examples of any infotainment system ever installed in a vehicle.

The new Escalade also includes a long list of active safety technology. Highlights include blind-spot monitoring with trailer side blind zone alert, forward collision warning, emergency braking, lane departure warning and mitigation, a heads-up display, rear cross-traffic warning with emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, rear pedestrian alert and adaptive cruise control with Cadillac’s “Supercruise” autonomous driving system.

Pricing

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade starts at $76,195. The destination charge is $1,295. The Escalade Sport begins at $85,595. Add $3k for 4WD and when all loaded-up our test vehicle cost $112,095.