Chrysler SRT Apps
The 10 Best And 10 Worst Automotive TechnologiesI've enjoyed seat time in the latest Dodge Viper and Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. While those cars have tons of power, and are fun to drive, this is Tom's Hardware, after all. I have to mention the tech I enjoyed in both vehicles. They feature Chrysler's Uconnect Access system and seven-inch gauge cluster display, which we covered in 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Refined Just Right; Raw Where It Counts. But the SRT vehicles get even more functionality, such as data-logging apps for recording 0-60, quarter-mile, and 0-100 MPH runs, along with other performance metrics.
The software is accessible through the seven-inch gauge cluster LCD and as a dedicated app within the Uconnect Access 8.4N system. When you start the car, the cluster begins a continuous log of performance, reporting your best times (so that you can beat them, as if in a video game). Or, you can manually launch the application in the Uconnect Access 8.4N display, which takes a couple seconds to start.
Sure, you could achieve the same capability with a cheap Bluetooth-based OBD-II adapter and your smartphone. But the integration just isn't there. Kudos to Chrysler for embracing technology and leveraging it effectively in its performance-oriented vehicles.
At least BMW disables it automatically when the car is in Sport mode. The Jaguar you have to disable every time. But yes I agree its obnoxious unless its completely transparent, which most of the time it isn't. Seems harsh most of the time which is not something I'd tolerate in a luxury vehicle.
We've yet to spend seat time in a Tesla. The times I've seen them, I wouldn't say its the best. The interior just overwhelms you with touch screen LCDs, and overwhelming you doesn't make it the best. The drivetrain is impressive though.
The big problem is the smoothness. Even when they try to mask it, you can still feel a shudder. The level of refinement on start/stop isn't good enough for a luxury vehicle. For a Ford Fiesta? Sure, but a $40k+ luxury / sports sedan? Not so much.
I know Toyota and Ford use a Microsoft based solution so those probably would, but I don't think it matters too much because if you are buying a Chevy Sonic, you probably don't have the cash to buy their half assed nav system.
Actually my sister's Ford Fiesta supports WAV. Also the Tesla Model S supports FLAC up to 48KHz 24bit or 96KHz 16bit.
I keep a folder of FLAC music on my flash drive for car testing hoping that one day a car will work with FLAC. So far it has not happened yet
Actually my sister's Ford Fiesta supports WAV. Also the Tesla Model S supports FLAC up to 48KHz 24bit or 96KHz 16bit.
Yep. FLACK support.... for the low price of $89,000!
Actually my sister's Ford Fiesta supports WAV. Also the Tesla Model S supports FLAC up to 48KHz 24bit or 96KHz 16bit.
Yep. FLACK support.... for the low price of $89,000!
Don't forget you have to sign your life over and let them monitor your usage too.