California – Automobiles Review

Ford Mustang Turns California Dreaming into Reality in Europe for the First Time

Ford Mustang California Special EU 2022 - Side View

The quintessential style of west coast America has crossed the Atlantic as the Ford Mustang California Special arrives in Europe for the first time.

Embodying the free-spirited ethos of the 1968 original, the new California Special is offered exclusively in convertible body style with a folding soft-top for classic looks and open-air thrills. A special-edition design package with unique badging, detailing, 19-inch alloy wheels and special “colour shift” California Special decals delivers distinctive style, and Ford’s charismatic 450 PS V8 petrol engine provides the power for effortless cruising.

Inside, the Mustang California Special is designed to help liberate all the fun of the open road whatever the weather, with bespoke California Special detailing adding exclusive appeal. Standard comfort technologies include heated and cooled front seats, a 12-inch customisable instrument cluster, and advanced SYNC 3 connectivity that enables drivers to call up their favourite road trip soundtrack or find directions to the nearest beach using just their voice.

A new video released today by Ford marks the Mustang California Special’s arrival in Europe by celebrating the spirit of Mustang and demonstrating that California is a state of mind to be enjoyed wherever you are.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtKU2C-v4pk

“The California Special is a huge part of the Mustang’s legacy in America and it symbolises so much of what Mustang stands for: The joy of driving and the freedom of the open road. Those ideals resonate just as strongly with driving enthusiasts in Europe, so it’s about time customers here got to experience the unique California Special blend of style, performance and driving fun,” said Matthias Tonn, Mustang chief programme engineer, Ford of Europe.

Classic design reinvented

When the now iconic Ford Mustang first hit the streets in 1964, owners’ clubs sprang up across America, with many regional dealers creating their own personalised designs. One – inspired by the 1967 Shelby GT notchback coupe prototype – came to be called the California Special.

That original version featured a blacked-out grille, fog lights and a side racing stripes that ended ahead of new rear side air scoops, as well as a Shelby-inspired spoiler. Impressed, Ford put a limited number of California Special cars into production for 1968.

The newest interpretation – available only as a folding soft-top convertible in homage to the famously Mediterranean-like climate of “the Golden State” – reflects the original with a honeycomb front grille finished in Ebony Black and featuring a GT/CS badge in Race Red, as well as lower side stripes finished in black, red and grey. Incorporating GT/CS logos, the stripes run from the front to rear wings and feature a hidden “California Special” script that is almost invisible in low light conditions but becomes much more prominent in stronger sunlight.

Like the original, aerodynamic enhancements hint at V8 performance, with a larger front splitter and optional rear side air scoops. At the rear, a California Special faux filler cap sits above quad tailpipes. Unique five-spoke alloy wheels add to the exclusivity. Front 19 x 9-inch and rear 19 x 9.5-inch wheels are finished in Carbonised Grey to complement the front splitter, side skirts and rear diffuser. Under the bonnet, a strut tower brace features a California Special badge.

Nine exterior colours include signature Grabber Blue and Cyber Orange, contrasting with the black roof that folds to transform the coupe profile into a sleek convertible in eight seconds.

Further unique design touches and comfort features inside the Mustang California Special highlight its special-edition status. Standard heated and cooled front seats help occupants stay comfortable with the roof down in summer or winter. The leather seats and door inserts are part-finished in grey Miko^® suede – an ecological, synthetic material made from recycled polyester – with red stitching. Seats and floor mats are embossed with the GT/CS logo, and the instrument panel is finished in Carbon Hex aluminium with a unique Mustang California Special badge.

Ford’s SYNC 3 communication and entertainment system¹ is designed to always be ready for a spur of the moment road trip, enabling drivers to control their connected smartphones, audio, navigation, and climate functions with conversational voice commands and a central 8-inch touch screen. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto² at no extra cost and connectivity is provided on the move by a standard FordPass Connect modem.³

Standard driver assistance technologies including Adaptive Cruise Control with Pre-Collision Assist and Lane Keeping Alert ⁴ help make every day driving less demanding, with the ultimate in stress relief provided by the folding roof, creating unlimited headroom.

Good vibrations

The Mustang California Special’s 5.0-litre Ford V8 engine – delivering 450 PS and 529 Nm⁵ of torque – provides the performance and soundtrack befitting a special-edition Mustang.

Combined with Ford’s six-speed manual transmission featuring rev-matching technology for seamless gearchanges and an even sportier character, the model accelerates from 0-62 mph in 4.8 seconds. Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic transmission delivers 4.5-second 0‑62 mph acceleration.

The automatic transmission also optimises performance depending on the selected Drive Mode.⁴Normal, Sport, Track and Snow/Wet modes deliver the appropriate driving experience whether on Route 66 or the A6. Good Neighbour mode can automatically limit the exhaust’s noise output at pre-programmed times of the day.

Traction and cornering grip are maximised by a standard limited-slip differential and an available MagneRide^{® 6} suspension system. It monitors conditions one thousand times per second and uses an electronically-controlled fluid to match damping resistance to the driving scenario.

The Ford Mustang California Special expands the European Mustang family that includes the Mustang GT fastback and convertible, the track-ready Mustang Mach 1, and the all-electric Mustang Mach-E and Mustang Mach-E GT.⁵

Mustang Mach-E combines the style, character and performance of the iconic sports car with an energy-efficient, battery-electric drivetrain capable of delivering up to 610 km WLTP pure-electric driving range.⁵ Mustang Mach-E GT delivers Ford’s most exhilarating all-electric production vehicle driving experience yet, with a specially tuned all-wheel drive powertrain offering 487 PS and 860 Nm for 0-62 mph acceleration in 3.7 seconds.⁷

# # #

¹ Don’t drive while distracted. Use voice-operated system when possible; don’t use handheld devices while driving. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones.

²Requires phone with active data service and compatible software. SYNC 3 does not control 3rd party products while in use. 3rd Parties are solely responsible for their respective functionality.

³ FordPass Connect, the FordPass app and complimentary Connected Service are required for remote features (see FordPass terms for details). Connected Service and features depend on Vodafone or Vodafone partner mobile network availability. Evolving technology/mobile networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. Connected Service excludes Wi-Fi hotspot.

⁴ Driver-assist features are supplemental to and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle. It does not replace safe driving. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations.

⁵Ford Mustang Mach-E delivers up to 610 km WLTP homologated pure-electric driving range in rear-wheel drive, extended-range battery configuration.

Ford Mustang Mach-E GT delivers up to 500 km WLTP homologated pure-electric driving range.

Ford Mustang California Special and GT six-speed manual homologated CO₂emissions 268-276 g/km WLTP and homologated fuel efficiency 11.8-12.1 l/100 km WLTP.

Ford Mustang California Special and GT 10-speed automatic homologated CO₂emissions 256-265 g/km WLTP and homologated fuel efficiency 11.2-11.6 l/100 km WLTP.

Ford Mustang Mach 1 six-speed manual homologated CO₂emissions 284 g/km WLTP and homologated fuel efficiency 12.4 l/100 km WLTP.

Ford Mustang Mach 1 10-speed automatic homologated CO₂emissions 270 g/km WLTP and homologated fuel efficiency 11.7 l/100 km WLTP.

CO₂ emission and fuel efficiency ranges may vary according to vehicle variants offered by individual markets.

The declared WLTP fuel/energy consumptions, CO₂-emissions and electric range are determined according to the technical requirements and specifications of the European Regulations (EC) 715/2007 and (EU) 2017/1151 as last amended. The applied standard test procedures enable comparison between different vehicle types and different manufacturers.

⁶MagneRide^® is a trademark of BWI Group.

⁷Ford test data based on testing methodology using 1-ft rollout i.e. from a rolling start.

March 7, 2022

Ferrari California T to Get Handling Speciale (HS) Optional Pack

Ferrari California T HS Front View Ferrari California T is a front-engined V8 cabrio with room for two and is now available with new Handling Speciale (HS) option. Ferrari has made this step in order to offer sportier driving experience to its customers and California T owners.

The Handling Speciale (HS) Pack

To go into details, this option adds an extra edge, especially if one is driving in the manettino’s Sport mode. It includes new damper settings and modified springs (more than 16% stiffer than the outgoing model) for stiffer ride, sportier feedback, and throaty engine sound.

Changes affect the gear-shift operation too, which is now faster and sportier during both up- and down-shifts. Another highlight is the SCM3 magnetorheological dampers that result in sportier changes when driving in the Sport mode. In addition, the revised F1-Trac logic ensures better acceleration.

The California T HS package also features brand new exhaust system with silencers with two primary pipes, which also contribute for the better sound. By the way, the exhaust was developed in tandem with the engine and gearbox control software. As a result, this emphasizes the performance gains, the rapid response and improved sound and volume.

Ferrari California T HS Rear View

On the outside, one can also tell that the car has the HS optional pack, because it carries new front grille in matte Grigio Ferro Met, rear diffuser in the same color with matte black fences and matte black tailpipes. Inside, the cockpit has one-off HS plaque, which shows the special treatment that the car features.

Ferrari California T with HS Pack is going to be revealed at the Geneva International Motor Show in March.

Ferrari California T Technical Specifications:

Engine:
Type	90° V8 – direct injection
Overall displacement	3855 cc
Maximum power	412 kW (560 cv) at 7500 rpm
Maximum torque	755 Nm (77 kgm) at 4750 rpm
Dimensions and weight:
Length	4570 mm
Width	1910 mm
Height	1322 mm
Dry weight	1625 kg
Weight distribution	47% fr. – 53% r.
Performance:
Maximum speed	316 km/h
0-100 km/h	3.6 s
Fuel consumption:
10.5 l/100 km
CO2 emissions:
250 g/km

Source: Ferrari

January 25, 2016

Volkswagen California Gets Improved Engine Range and Upgrades

Volkswagen California has been just unveiled and it is based on the T6 model variant. There is something charming about vans carrying the VW badge up front, isn’t it? It reminds me of the famous hippie days filled with freedom and excitement about the new era ahead. This Volkswagen California actually brings back a little bit the spirit of those days.

The company is launching it in three equipment lines, namely Beach, Coast and Ocean. It range now includes new TDI and TSI engines, which use less fuel and feature engine start-stop as standard. In addition, Volkswagen has also added modern infotainment and assistance systems as well as DCC chassis.

Volkswagen California Beach

It starts with the California Beach offers space for up to seven-occupants and five beds. It is quipped as standard with a manual pop-top and two different layouts. Precisely, these are two-deck seat with storage compartment or three-seat folding bench with multiflex board.

The interior is cozy, features integrated blinds for the front seats and removable picnic table in the sliding door. At the rear the seats are folding as well.

Volkswagen California Coast

Volkswagen California Coast adds a pop-top and a furniture line with aluminum and light wood accents. It offers seating or five persons, and there is even kitchen in the back. It features stainless steel sink, 42 liter cool box with insert basket and two burner gas stoves with piezo ignition. There is also a lot of space for the storage allowing a comfortable life even on extended trips.

Volkswagen California Ocean

The third trim is called California Ocean. This one features extremely extensive standard equipment. For instance, here we have auxiliary heating, Climatronic, double glazing and pop-up roof. In fact, the latter is operated electro-hydraulically and rises and falls with the touch of ones fingertips. There is also new dimmable LED lighting in the pop-up roof and the tailgate.

One of the best features in the Volkswagen California series is the addition of the multifunctional interior and built-in accessories, and folding double beds. Everything is featured in the copact dimensions of 1.99 meters of height.

Moreover, the special treatment in these series is visible through small details in the rear area like the cup holder, ashtray holder and towel rail. In addition, the integrated accessories such as camping chairs and table can be stored space savingly.

Engine Range

Based on the T6, the vehicle also gets driver assistance systems, latest infotainment with “App Connect” and Adaptive Dynamics. At last, the vans will be powered by wide range of TDI engines with an output ranging from 84 to 204 horsepower (62;150 kW); as well as two petrol unit, capable of 150 hp (110 kW) and 205 hp (150 kW). The engines come as a standard equipped with BlueMotion Technology and engine start-stop.

Volkswagen California is currently on sale (in Germany only) and has a starting price of € 41,430.

Source: Volkswagen

June 11, 2015

2015 Fiat 500e reaches US West Coast

The new all-electric 2015 Fiat 500e has become available on the US West Coast, Fiat has officially announced. The really new interesting fact is that now the 2015 Fiat 500e is available in the US state of Oregon, while before the electric car was sold only in California.

“Bringing the Fiat 500e to Oregon gives more customers in this environmentally minded state the opportunity to enjoy the Italian style and engaging driving dynamics of the Fiat 500, but with zero tailpipe emissions,” said Jason Stoicevich, Head of FIAT Brand for North America, Chrysler Group LLC.

“The Fiat 500e is attractive and fun. It remains a model that will, with a short test drive, convert people who hadn’t even thought about electric cars into EV enthusiasts,” said Bengt Halvorson, Drive Revolution Event Co-chair.

The 2015 Fiat 500e features a redesigned center console, with a new cup holder design and an additional, conveniently located USB port that is fully functional and integrated with the radio. Two paint colors have been added for 2015 for a total of seven available exterior paint colors, including new Luce Blu (light blue with a pearl finish) and Celeste (light blue).

The new car is now available in both Oregon and California for USD 199 per month for 36 months and USD 999 at signing. This past summer the vehicle was named the “Top Electric Vehicle” for a second consecutive year at the Northwest Automotive Press Association’s Drive Revolution, which is an annual alternative-fuel vehicle event in Portland.

Source: Fiat

September 24, 2014

2014 Ferrari California T – Test [video]

Autocar has published a video test with the 2014 Ferrari California T, which was recently presented at the Geneva Motor Show. Besides the styling changes, the convertible comes with an all-new and impressive turbocharged engine. The newly developed power unit marks the returning to turbocharging era of Ferrari since the F40, which was cut out in 1992.

The all-new engine is a 3.9 liter turbocharged V8 – 560HP (412 kW) at 7,500RPM and 755Nm (556 lb-ft) of torque at 4,750RPM. 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 11.2 seconds and a top speed of 316 km/h (196 mph). The engine is connected to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. The California T Facelift has 15% improved fuel consumption and 20% less CO2 emissions – 10.5 liters / 100 km (26.9 mpg UK) and CO2 250 g/km.

Other specs include uprated suspension featuring new springs and dampers, along with a better F1-Trac traction control system and reworked carbon ceramic brakes.

The interior boasts leather Frau sport seats and a new center console. There is also a 6.5” touchscreen display featuring an updated infotainment system. An extremely powerful 1,280 WATT JBL Professional sound system with 12 speakers and a 16-channel amplifier is available upon request.

Last, but not least, the folding hard-top can be opened or closed in just 14 seconds at speeds of up to 50 km/h (35 mph).

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUfGRM2WQT0

Source: Autocar.co.uk

June 2, 2014

Ferrari California T – A Turbo Convertible [video]

Ferrari has officially unveiled the facelifted California T at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The stylish convertible comes not only with some nice styling upgrades, but an all-new turbocharged engine. We suspected that the “T” in model signature is going to mean something like that, but nothing was for sure until now.

The exterior boasts a complete makeover including elements from the super-expensive FF and F12 Berlinetta. The folding hard top can open or close in just 14 seconds at speeds of up to 50 km/h (35 mph).

The interior features leather Frau sport seats and a redesigned center console as well as a new 6.5” touchscreen display featuring an updated infotainment system. Upon request, the customer can order an extremely powerful 1,280 WATT JBL Professional sound system with 12 speakers and a 16-channel amplifier.

The all-new engine is a 3.8 liter turbocharged V8 – 560HP (412 kW) and 755Nm (556 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 11.2 seconds and a top speed of 316 km/h (196 mph). The California T Facelift boasts 15% improved fuel consumption and 20% less CO2 emissions.

Other highlights include uprated suspension featuring new springs and dampers, along with a better F1-Trac traction control system and reworked carbon ceramic brakes.

2014 Ferrari Caliofrnia T marks returning to turbocharging era since the F40, which was phased out back in 1992.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNZKmLMbTk0

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1XdkDt9-xM

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJ_Eidlemo4

Source: Ferrari

March 4, 2014

Ferrari California T Unveiled Ahead Of Geneva Debut

Ferrari California was introduced 64 years ago – in 1950. Now the exclusive Italian brand is releasing another successor of the model – the Ferrari California T, which exudes elegance, sportiness, versatility and exclusivity.

California T boasts a refined cabin and retractable hard top (RHT). But the most striking and a brand new feature here is the engine, which is 8-cylinder turbo one. As a matter of fact, Ferrari’s engineers have designed an entirely new power unit, which produces not only excessive power, but also – the most exhilarating soundtrack any turbo has ever yielded.

Precisely, the engine features direct-injection, and is mounted very low in the chassis in a mid-front position. It delivers 560 hp (411 kW) at 7500 rpm, and a maximum torque of 755 Nm (557 lb-ft). These numbers speak only of exhilarating acceleration over the 0 to 100 km/h sprint, which the car covers in only 3.6 seconds.

Furthermore, the typical Ferrari engine sound was achieved through the utilization of special manufacturing techniques for essential components, such as the flat-plane crankshaft and the three-piece cast exhaust manifold and turbo housing. The result is a powerful, engaging sound during both the intake and exhaust phases, becoming even more potent as engine speed increases.

The sports dynamics are inherent to California T, due to the reduced steering wheel activity and improved steering response. There have been added new springs and latest-generation Magnaride dampers. When combined with body motion accelerometers, they reduce roll and pitch for more precise handling. California T is also equipped with F1-Trac traction control system as well as CCM3 carbon-ceramic braking system.

Of course, as a true Italian sports car, the model was given considerable attention in terms of design. The goal was to ensure that the California T has a new, individual personality. The shape of the California T’s flanks was inspired by the 250 Testa Rossa’s pontoon-fender styling; the front wing line of the model stretches back towards the rear, thus bringing an aerodynamic sleekness and movement to the sides. The rear on the other hand benefits from a new triple-fence diffuser. The model is currently being offered in two colors Rosso California and Blu California.

The cabin of the model was designed to be as ergonomic as possible. It sports a luxurious Frau semi-aniline leather trim, human-machine interface which encompasses Ferrari’s steering wheel with integrated controls, Turbo Performance Engineer (TPE) positioned between the two air vents in the centre of the dash. California T also boasts new infotainment system with 6.5” screen featuring both touch-screen and conventional controls.

Ferrari California T is going to have an official premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show in March.

Source: Ferrari

February 13, 2014

Tunerworks Performance Transforms Ferrari California

Tunerworks Performance Ferrari California added little bit of spice and love in the air with its release yesterday on Valentine’s Day. Ferrari California is a vehicle that could be a synonym of a true love with its exotic appearance and emotions that brings when one is driving it.

Originally the Ferrari California is equipped with 4,300 cc V8 engine which includes direct fuel injection and a flat crankshaft, and is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. Thanks to it the car produces 460 horsepower at 7,500 rpm with a torque curve that enhances vehicle dynamics and provides maximum driving pleasure which is typical for Ferrari. What is more, this unit allows the California to sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in less than 4.0 seconds.

What Tunerworks have done on it is to supply it with the following equipment: Carbon Fiber And Matte Black Novitec 3pc Wheels, Pirelli Tires, Novitec Carbon Fiber Aero Packge, Novitec Valved Exhaust System, Novitec Lowering Suspension, Red Ferrari Center Caps, Smoked OEM Markers.

Now this incredible tuning will be not only instantly recognizable, but also will add more individual presence on any road it runs.

Source: Tunerworks Performance Inc. via Facebook

February 15, 2013

Vorsteiner V-309 Ferrari California

The most recent update from Vorsteiner is this beautiful Ferrari California. In particular Vorsteiner V-309 Ferrari California is no less than a true queen, showing its sparkling majesty on the streets of Taiwan, where this actual update was made.

What is more here, one of the Vorsteiner’s dealers there, has equipped the Ferrari with theses splendid Vorsteiner V-309 3-piece forged aluminum wheels.

The result is obvious and there is no question about the majestic stance which this vehicle has – now further enhanced thank to Vorsteiner.

Of course these wheels were custom made and ordered specifically to match the California. As you can see, the five split spoke face of the wheels is done in black. At the same time there is a contrast present, with lip is done in white.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 23, 2012

DMC Ferrari California 3S Silver Carbon Fiber

German Luxury Tuner DMC has announced their tuning package for Ferrari California. The name of the project is 3S Silver Carbon Fiber. It boasts unique body kit and performance package.

The aerodynamics package includes – a silver carbon fiber splitter, a silver carbon fiber rear diffuser, refined license plate bay, which now includes a silber carbon fiber apron.

The engine of DMC California is boosted to 606PS (446 kW), which is an increase of 146PS (108 kW), so the performance is extreme – 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph). Impressive results for a big four-seater GT car. The additional power is thanks to a number of mods – a turbo-loader in combination with physically enlarged injection nozzles and a new tailor made crankshaft. It is supported by a new exhaust sytem that is made if T309 stainless steel. It comes with 200 cell catalysts and an improved X-Pipe and is fully controlable via an on-board valve control system.

The California 3S Silver Carbon Fiber stands on enormous ADV1 wheels – 9J x 21” at the front and 11.5J x 22” at the rear fitted with ultra-performance tires.

This combination adds an aggressive wedge look to the overall appearance, accompanying the dynamic look of DMC’s styling package.

DMC Ferrari California 3S Silver Carbon Fiber

Source: DMC

November 22, 2011

A 7-year “Ferrari Geniune Maintenance” Programme

Ferrari is taking a huge risk with their special 7-year Genuine Maintenance programme. It covers all the scheduled maintenance for the first seven years, regardless of vehicle mileage. The programme offers services for all new Ferrari California, 458 Italia and FF models.

Furthermore, the Ferrari Genuine Maintenance programme is transferable to a new client in the event of a change of vehicle ownership. It is designed to anticipate one annual service each year during the 7 years, but because of the no mileage restriction, clients who reach the service intervals by mileage, will be able to have their car serviced more than once per year. The service intervals are every 20 000km (12 500miles).

The Ferrari Genuine Maintenance programme will be supplied as standard with all Ferrari California, 458 Italia and FF models delivered from 15 March 2011 and is only available through the official Ferrari service centre network. The programme ensures:

cars are maintained in accordance with Ferrari’s recommended schedule
safety and environmental standards are maintained thoughout the period
enhanced residual values for the original and subsequent owners

Such kind of service is unique and Ferrari will probably attract more clients of luxury supercars than their competitors.
Ferrari California

Source: Ferrari

April 28, 2011

Novitec Rosso Race 606

Novitec Rosso has revealed their Race 606, which is based on Ferrari California. It features a front lip spoiler, an aggressive rear diffuser, a ventilated hood and a lot of carbon fiber accents.

The whole stance of the car is lowered with 35mm, because of the new sport suspension, which also features a hydraulic front lift system.

Novitec Rosso Race 606 stands on three-piece NF3 wheels with Pirelli PZero ultra-performance tires. (more…)

February 15, 2011

Tag: California

Classic design reinvented

Good vibrations

The Handling Speciale (HS) Pack

Ferrari California T Technical Specifications:

Volkswagen California Beach

Volkswagen California Coast

Volkswagen California Ocean

Engine Range