• The 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 debuts the world's most powerful four-cylinder engine.
• The engine produces over 380 horsepower and accelerates to 60 mph in just four seconds.
• Expect the new Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 later this year, with prices close to that time.

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is finally here. It's essentially a compact luxury sports car with the power and torque of a powerful car. It carries the same design language as the larger CLS, but no more than the C-Class. In short, it's a small little monster that packs a terrible punch. Over the next few minutes, we'll be taking a look at the new Mercedes-AMG CLA 45.

And that's only fitting, we start with the engine.

Mercedes-AMG M139 engine

The outgoing Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is by no means a slow car. It arrived with an M133 engine producing 375 horsepower. However, if there is something not so good with the old engine, it is that it tends to dump all of its torque at lower engine speeds. Enter the new M139 engine. For starters, it's the most powerful production four-cylinder engine in the world. In the 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45, the engine is good for 382 horsepower and 354 lb-ft. of torque, a reasonable jump from the previous output. That's a lot, to be honest, from a modest 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

Mercedes-AMG says the zero-to-60 time is just four seconds, and the top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. The optional AMG Drivers Package bumps it up to 168mph (so order it). More importantly, the engine is tuned to behave like a naturally aspirated windmill. Peak torque hits 5,200 rpm, while Mercedes claims an instant boost of 1,000 to 2,000 rpm. And here's the bad news: The M139 engine is also available in S form with 415 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. torque. Sounds good, really, but this version is only available in the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S, which isn't coming to the US, by the way.

Why? We have no idea. But to be fair, 382 horsepower is still plentiful for what really is a small and compact Mercedes. But then again, is it really a Mercedes? America is all about horsepower. We can handle it.

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 uses a lightweight aluminum plate bolted under the engine. Known as the "cutting plate", it increases the torsional stiffness of the front end. Photo: MBUSA.

2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45: one person, one engine

It's not easy being the most powerful four-cylinder engine in the world. Mercedes had to develop a high-tech production line in Affalterbach to make this a reality. And since we're talking about an AMG engine and a production plant, every M139 factory is built using AMG's "One Man, One Engine" principle; This means the engine is built by hand and by one person from start to finish. Technicians use a variety of smart power tools that register every single application of torque. This allows technicians to build the engine with maximum precision while monitoring every step of the process.

Because if you're building the world's most powerful four-cylinder engine, you don't risk it with conventional hand tools.

With this method, AMG places the turbocharger and exhaust manifold at the rear of the engine (on the side wall of the firewall when viewed from the rear). The intake system is in front. Mercedes-AMG claims that this configuration creates the largest possible and most aerodynamically advantageous design for the front of the engine. In addition, the turbine housing is divided into two flow passages running parallel to each other. Divided channels in the exhaust manifold allow a separate flow of exhaust gases to the turbine. The design prevents the individual cylinders from negatively impacting each other during load cycles, which, according to Mercedes-AMG, helps boost torque.

Sounds like space age, but that's how Mercedes-AMG rolls around.

In addition to oil and water, air is directed to the turbocharger to keep it cool. The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 also uses roller bearings on the compressor and turbine shafts to reduce mechanical friction. Photo: MBUSA.

Dual water pumps and dual injectors

An engine with high rotational speed and high power output usually requires the cooling capacity of a small nuclear generator. With this in mind, Mercedes-AMG provided the M139 engine with a set of two water pumps. The first is a high-performance mechanical block that supplies coolant to an aluminum cylinder head. The second is an electric water pump that works independently of the mechanical one. In fact, this pump continues to run even if the engine is turned off. This ensures that the crankcase is always cooled as efficiently and as quickly as possible.

The M139 engine uses two-stage fuel injection. During normal operation, the engine receives fuel from a set of piezo injectors operating at 2900 psi. If you really push it, the engine will engage a second set of fuel injectors (with solenoid valves) mounted in the intake manifold. The injectors operate at 97.2 psi and help the engine reach its maximum possible power.

Related: The Mercedes-AMG A 35 Sedan is the hot shoe nemesis for Audi and BMW.

2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45: powertrain technology

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 makes good use of the new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. Power is sent to all four wheels via a fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. The transmission offers two distinct advantages. First, it is a rear-shift system that gives the rider the feeling of being pushed from behind. Further, the rear axle differential is equipped with AMG Torque Control. The latter means that the torque is not only distributed between the front and rear wheels, but it can also change the torque delivery between the left and right rear wheels.

The result of all this magic is consistent traction, whether on the street or on the racetrack. Best of all, drive torque is controlled by an electro-mechanical system that Mercedes claims is faster-responding and more advanced than a similar electro-hydraulic unit. This also means that the new Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 can be equipped with an optional Drift Mode. With this setup, all the power goes to the rear wheels, so you can do funny tail-sliding maneuvers in your compact luxury Mercedes-AMG.

2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45. Photo: MBUSA.

High performance everything

Without a doubt, the 2020 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is a small car, but highly efficient. It has a high performance engine, transmission and transmission, but it also needs a high performance suspension. Mercedes goes along with a four-link MacPherson strut strut design at the front and rear with three wishbones and a single trailing arm. The AMG Ride Control adaptive damping system is optional.

• Already provided by the Dodge Challenger, the Charger now gets Widebody signature treatments.
• The Charger Widebody is more than just looks.
• Pricing has not been announced for the new performance vehicles, although order books open this fall.

You can't say that Mopar is inconsistent. Basically, Dodge's philosophy in the modern era - anytime after 1960 - is simple: What's the biggest, most powerful engine we have? Put it on everything! Whatever cars the company makes, those engines will eventually turn into everything. For example, Dodge Durango SRT. With bigger engines come bigger cars like the Challenger Widebody two years ago. And now, with the 2020 Dodge Charger, we are getting our own Widebody update.

Here. dot.

So said Zarathustra: “Designed and engineered to push the boundaries of what a four-door family sedan can be, the new 2020 Dodge Charger…” Yes, blah, blah, blah, here’s the deal: Supercharged, 6.2 Hemi Hellcat V8, 707 horsepower force, 650 lb-ft of torque. Of course, you can argue: "But the BMW M5 is!" Or "AMG that!" Or whatever, but I'll see you at the end of The Strip, Klaus. No, not a country mile - it's a Dodge Charger as refined or as good as those built by the Germans (and a good bit of the Japanese or British), but according to the FCA, that's sort of the point.

The bottom line here was one they figured out when Brian Jones left the Stones. The point is that quarter mile performance is all Acceleration. Torque. Tire smoking, explosive, head fragments, accelerated retinal detachment. Therefore, we will not talk about navigation systems and infotainment packages and leather paint colors. This material is next to The Point.

2020 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody. Photo: FCA US LLC.

2020 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody

The Widebody Pack is standard on the SRT Hellcat Charger and is available on the Scat Pack Charger Kit. If you get a widebody, which you should, the fender flares add 3.5 inches to the width. Dodge says it makes "an even more aggressive, tough stance." Gee, you think? Either way, thanks to the huge flares, you have plenty of room for wider 20-by-11-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli 305/35ZR20 tires. Of course, you might think this is overkill, but I bring your attention back to that 650 lb-ft of torque.

Plus, those big wheels give you plenty of room for things like two-piece Brembo front brake discs (15.4 inches) with six-piston calipers. Stopping distance is now four feet shorter (107 feet) from 60 to 0 mph (and you'll need it, let's face it). An eight-speed Hemi automatic and supercharged 6.2 TorqueFlite 8HP90 sends the Hellcat Widebody to a top speed of 196 mph. 60 mph climb in just 3.6 seconds and quarter mile in 10.96 seconds. In case you're wondering, the new Charger Hellcat Widebody pulls 0.96g per skid.

Naturally, the Widebody suspension gets a special tweak all around. The speed of the front springs is increased, providing a 32 percent jump in stiffness over the existing Hellcat Charger. Larger crossbars appear in the picture, widening from 32mm to 34mm at the front and 19mm to 22mm at the rear. SRT-tuned, Bilstein tri-mode adaptive suspension and a new electric power steering system are also on deck.

Hellcat Widebody Performance Tech

On top of all this, there are four race-inspired technical innovation standards for 2020. Race Cooldown continues to cool the supercharger/charge air cooler after the engine is turned off to keep it from overheating. Line Lock, an old-school personal favorite, only applies the front brakes so you can burn out. Launch Control manages tire slip for more even linear acceleration. (That's cheating to me, but that's another story.) And then the wheel speed sensor start assist changes the torque (in milliseconds) to prevent wheel damage during start up.

2020 Dodge Charger Scat Pack Widebody. Photo: FCA US LLC.

Related: Black is the new black: meet the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Octane Edition.

2020 Dodge Charger Scat Pack Widebody

Now with the widebody 2020 Dodge Charger Scat Pack - which might be your best bet in terms of performance to value - you get a 6.4 392 Hemi that puts out 485 horsepower. The engine is mated to a TorqueFlite 8HP70 eight-speed automatic transmission. All of the aforementioned suspension bits and performance-enhancing mistresses; including Launch Control, Launch Assist and Line Lock are all still in the Scat Pack Widebody.

Compared to the "regular" Scat Pack, the Widebody stops three feet shorter. Acceleration is also improved, with the Widebody Scat Pack hitting 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, the quarter mile in 12.4 seconds at 111 mph and 0.98g of lateral traction on the frame. The Widebody Scat Pack also goes 1.3 seconds faster on a 2.1-mile track, which equates to eight car lengths per lap.

• The 2019 Subaru STI S209 introduces the world's first high-performance STI S-line in the US.
• The upcoming STI S209 is directly inspired by the WRX STI Nürburgring Challenge race car.
• Chassis performance includes flexible strut struts, stiffeners and other modifications.

Subaru Subunku, Subaru Tecnica International (or STI for those in the know) remains top of the mountain when it comes to factory and approved fast cars. Now it seems that there is something beyond that, even beyond the powerful STI. It is called the STI S209 and is the world's first S-line STI produced exclusively for the US market. And it will set the tone for future S-line products. The 2019 Subaru STI S209 feels like a super version of the "normal" super version of the STR WRX.

As you (should) know, the WRX is a Subie racing car. It's incredible as it is, but it's even more amazing when STI is done with it. So you can only imagine what the STI S209 is like.

2019 Subaru STI S209: Ring Inspired'

The STI S209 is undergoing a thorough overhaul for power, handling, aerodynamics and driver engagement. Engine modifications and body structure modifications are carried out in advance at the company's assembly plant in Kiryu, Japan. As the name suggests, there have been other S cars, from the 2000 S201 to the 2018 S208. They were exclusive to the Japanese market, so this time we got lucky in the US..

The S209 uses a lot of tricks from the WRX STI Nürburgring Challenge race car that won the 2019 SP3T class at the 24 Hours. Like a racing car, the S209 wears an extended wide body for its looks. This increases the overall width of the car to 72.4 inches, 1.7 inches wider than the standard WRX STI. This wide bodyguard covers Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT600A 265/35 summer tires. These tires are wrapped around lightweight 19x9" BBS forged alloy wheels that run on a wider +0.6" front and rear track. Dunlop has developed tires exclusively for the S209. And yes, they pay off: the maximum lateral grip is over 1.0g, says Subaru.

The front fenders also feature vents for additional engine cooling. Air vents on the rear fenders eliminate air turbulence, which reduces drag and increases downforce. Removing it from speed is handled by Brembo brakes with cross-drilled steel rotors, as well as six-piston monobloc front calipers and two-piston monobloc rear calipers. Does Fuji Heavy Industries make trains? Because it could stop one if they did.

2019 Subaru STI S209 in WR Blue Pearl. Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.

Chassis and engine technology

In addition to brakes, tires and that wider body, the S209 rides on custom Bilstein shocks; stiffer coil springs; rear anti-roll bar 20 mm; and pillow type bushings for the front and rear side links. The front cross member and rear subframes are reinforced but complemented by a flexible front brace and front/rear linkage struts. The traction boosters as well as the rest of the suspension improve stability, handling and overall steering response. For example, a flexible tower rod, unlike a conventional rigid rod, is divided and connected with a ball joint in the center. This allows it, according to Subaru, to be more longitudinally agile and also contributes to the lateral reinforcement of the car's body.

There are also front, rear and side under spoilers and front bumper bumpers. The carbon roof and rear fender are ripped off the Nürburgring race car.

The 2019 Subaru STI S209 adopts a high flow intake system with a new intake port; induction box with conical air filter; silicone turbo inlet; and a water spray system to reduce boost temperatures using paddles on the steering wheel. More air means more fuel, so the S209 gets a new high-output fuel pump, larger injectors, and an STI-compliant engine control module. The high performance mufflers offer 17 percent less drag and connect to hand-polished 101mm stainless steel exhaust tips.

2019 Subaru STI S209 in Crystal White Pearl. Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.

How much power does a Subaru STI S209 have??

Force? Don't be afraid, STI is here. The S209 is powered by a redesigned version of the EJ25 2.5L turbocharged turbocharger (all caps). An HKS turbocharger with a larger turbine and compressor and 18.9 psi boost gives the engine 341 horsepower. The engine itself is adorned with a plate with serial number S209 and torque. How does 330nm sound work? It sounds good.

In the gearbox department, the S209 comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission. It channels power to Subaru's stock symmetrical all-wheel-drive system with front/rear limited-slip differentials. There is a driver-controlled center differential (DCCD) with active torque vectoring and multi-mode vehicle dynamics control. The SI-Drive system has been recalibrated to offer three modes: Intelligent (I) for better fuel economy and smoother handling; Sport (S) for more fun driving; and Sport Sharp (S #) for better acceleration times (and even more fun!). Personally, I'd call the latter "stupid" or "funny" or something, but maybe it's more like "Elon Musk"?

Curiously, STI engineers say that for sporty driving one should use the Sport instead of the Sport Sharp, as the less aggressive throttle map provides more control. So Sport for the track and Sport Sharp for the striptease, got it?

2019 Subaru STI S209 interior layout. Photo: Subaru of America, Inc.

Visual procedures and styles

To set it apart, the S209 wears an STI badge in place of Subaru's traditional star cluster in the center of the D-shaped steering wheel. This wheel is wrapped in Ultrasuede and stitched in silver, as is the center console cover. The S209 serial number badge is located on the center console, while S209 badges adorn the instrument panel and Recaro seat headrests. On the outside, special badges are found on the front grille and fenders, as well as on the back cover.

Related: An in-depth look at Subaru's warranty and if you have enough coverage.

2019 Subaru STI S209: Pricing and Availability

Now for the bad news: only 209 STI S209 units will be built. All of them are going to the USA, but this is not very much. Line? Go into it now. Available BBS wheel colors and combinations: WR Blue Pearl/Gray and Crystal White Pearl/Gold wheels. Prices will be announced closer to the sale date later this year, but will likely be very high, if they stay at all. Sorry about that.

Ford Super Duty does not calmly go into the night. As the Texas Fair begins, Ford show off the numbers on their new heavy truck. In short, the 2020 Ford Super Duty is a monster. In a more distant sense, a magnet and a strong one at that. It's safe to say that Ford will use the new performance numbers to lure buyers from GM and Ram. Ford is also using the occasion to get back to his roots, or it seems to be one way or the other. Yes, the 2020 Ford Super Duty is filled with connectivity and tech — all those trucks today; but the 2020 Super Duty numbers suggest that Ford is constantly aware of those who buy a truck just for the hitch and bed.

For example, Super Duty maintains the highest market share among demanding industries and professions. According to Ford's analysis of IHS Markit TIPNet U.S. registration data (January 2017-June 2019), Super Duty's mining market share exceeds 60 percent; ambulances and services by 50 percent; and construction and other skilled trades coming in at nearly 50 percent.

Ford Super Duty 2020: installation on stage

During the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) here in Detroit, the Ford show has always been one of the toughest. It's usually two tiers, complete with games and sims and all their best candy, from Shelby Mustangs to Raptor trucks. When Ford says it wants to be known as a technology or mobility company, their contemporary display at NAIAS reflects that. What's interesting is how this commitment to cutting-edge technology and future mobility merges under the hood of one of their most recognizable and iconic products: the 2020 Super Duty.

In the city of tomorrow, Ford hopes to reduce pollution, congestion and inefficient means of transit. Autonomous and electric vehicles, ride-sharing services and other forms of “connected mobility” are entering the conversation. Ford is partnering with a coalition of mayors and Bloomberg philanthropists for an ambitious effort. And while anyone can work hard on our future home, today Ford is doing what any Detroit automaker worthy of its weight in salt does. Making big, powerful trucks for America's working class.

After all, someone has to build this city.

“Super Duty customers have demanding and diverse needs, from towing heavy trailers to repairing critical infrastructure,” explained Kumar Galhotra, president of Ford North America. "Productivity is their lifeblood and their truck is their biggest tool."

"Ford truck buyers are building a better world with Super Duty, and we're helping them work even harder with the most affordable diesel towing, payload, torque, and horsepower you can get in a heavy-duty pickup," explained Mike Pruitt, Super Duty Chief Engineer. "We've broken the kilometer barrier and made it standard on every Power Stroke diesel pickup truck."

2020 Super Duty Availability Chart provided by Ford Motor Company.

How powerful is the 2020 Ford Super Duty?

As it stands, the 2020 Ford Super Duty will provide class-leading diesel towing, power and torque; best-in-class gasoline power and torque; and best-in-class payload. In terms of diesel towing, Ford will require all three methods from the 2020 Super Duty: regular, fifth wheel, and gooseneck. For the latter, coupling devices are installed at the factory. Moving the bricks and mortar of tomorrow's city requires a lot, and the right factory outfits for it.

At the top of the mountain is a 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine. Under the hood of the new Super Duty, it produces 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft. torque. The engine is mated to a new 10-speed TorqShift automatic. When properly equipped, the 6.7 Stroke Power has a maximum normal load capacity of 24,200 lbs.; maximum fifth wheel rating 32,500 pounds; and gooseneck capacity up to 37,000 lbs. The numbers are superior to comparable offerings from GM and Ram. To put things into perspective, a properly tuned F-450 could tow nearly 31 US quarter horses at 1200 pounds. part.

On the petrol side, the available 7.3-liter V8 puts out 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft. torque. When properly equipped, standard 6.2-liter gas provides a maximum load capacity of 7,850 pounds. The numbers once again outstrip comparable offerings from GM and Ram.

New off-road Tremor package with 6.7 power travel delivers 15,000lbs of maximum conventional traction.; 21,900 pounds for gooseneck applications. The Tremor package with 7.3 throttle offers a maximum payload of 4,210 pounds.

2020 Ford Super Duty with Tremor Off-Road Package. Photo: Ford Motor Company.

Running Gauntlet

Ford is known for his "torture tests," a series of brutal, intense, and even ridiculous rides that push the truck to its absolute limit. One of the most famous cars of 2011 is the EcoBoost Engine 448AA against Homestead-Miami Speedway. The F-150 EcoBoost runs for 24 hours on the track, stopping only to change fuel and tires when towing at full power. Suffice to say, nothing has changed in Ford's truck space, and the 2020 Super Duty is considered the most tried and tested in the company's history.

Prior to its debut in 2017, Super Duty has completed over 12 million test miles. Super Duty 2020 covered that, plus another seven million. Torture testing this time involved driving the truck around the clock under extreme loads and all sorts of environmental conditions using dynamometers, test tracks and public roads. In fact, because the endurance test tracks are so unforgiving and annoying, robot drivers are sometimes used in favor of humans.

Related: An inside look at Dearborn's big slug.

Technologies and connection processing

The available Pro Trailer Backup Assist helps when maneuvering trailers back and forth. Drivers use a stick instead of a steering wheel to better position their trailer with the reversing camera. Trailer Reverse Guidance shows the angle and heading, and offers steering recommendations for guiding the trailer backwards in the most efficient way. This technology is suitable for all traditional applications, saddle wheels and goosenecks.

• The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA is the perfect entry-level luxury car.
• Technology options are plentiful, including the new MBUX interface.
• A more powerful turbo engine will join the range for the new year.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA is one of those four-door "coupes" that, aside from Mercedes driving me crazy trying to name a four-door coupe, seems to actually work. Like all Mercedes-Benz products, it uses automotive technology such as the MBUX control system. MBUX for 2020 CLA comes with a new interface and natural speech recognition technology. Like all Mercedes-Benz vehicles, it's as secure as a bank vault and performs well; only a new CLA (which is different) won't break the bank.

2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA: a solid entry-level offering

The bottom line is that the 2020 CLA 250 will start at $ 36,650. The CLA 250 4MATIC, all-wheel drive version, starts at $38,650. See? It's not all bad for something with a three-pointed star. The CLA Coupe was the first compact Mercedes-Benz on the market when it arrived in the United States in 2013. During peak periods, more than two-thirds of U.S. CLA buyers came from competitors, according to Mercedes-Benz. On average, CLA customers are 10 years younger than regular Mercedes-Benz customers.

Considering the price and available technology, it makes sense.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA also comes with additional standard equipment for 2020. LED headlights and taillights; large panoramic roof and 18-inch wheels; Smartphone integration and a seven-inch digital instrument/media display are all on the list.

2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA. Photo: MBUSA.

Related: The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA packs a ton of intuitive tech.

Technician on wheels

As well as being adorned with a modern design, the CLA packs a lot of technology into a small and inexpensive package. There's a natural voice command interface, improved aerodynamics, and a host of new driver assistance systems. The instrument panel features a user-friendly widescreen display and a conventional touchscreen.

Now about this standard MBUX interface. It's actually pretty well thought out and useful; the only bad thing is the tragic name. MBUX, if you really want to know, stands for Mercedes-Benz User Experience. Basically, it's how you interact with various automotive operations and communications. Merc says it's all thanks to the system's powerful computer; shiny screens and graphics; customizable display; and software that can learn. Natural language voice control, an accessible full-color on-screen display, and enhanced navigation video are also part of MBUX.

Mercedes-Benz claims the system "exceeds conventional automotive standards" by making various functions in the vehicle more intuitive. I will leave the final decision on this matter to you.

2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA interior layout. Photo: MBUSA.

Power and performance

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine that produces 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. torque. That's a 13 horsepower bump over its predecessor. In addition, the new CLA track is wider for a lower center of gravity. Accurate measurements reach an additional 63mm at the front and another 55mm at the rear compared to the outgoing model. Mercedes goes on to talk about how the wider track and lower center of gravity give the car its sportiest performance.

Again, I will let you be the final judge on this.

To help with driving dynamics, the new CLA uses a disengaged multi-link rear axle, a larger anti-roll bar and an optional active adaptive damping system. In terms of aerodynamics, the 2020 CLA went through more testing and simulations and ended up spending more time in the wind tunnel compared to the outgoing model.