Mind-Numbingly Expensive 2021 Ferrari SF90 Misses Basic Features Like Most Hypercars

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Ferrari has outdone itself with its most expensive model to date. And its first hybrid does not disappoint. The 2021 Ferrari SF90 is a regular production model, too, rather than a limited edition, typical of other vehicles in its class. The Italian automaker will produce 500 SF90 models, with each carrying a price tag that’s not for the faint of heart.

Though this hypercar can outperform most vehicles, it lacks standard features in several key areas. But most consumers willing to pay the exorbitant price are interested in its performance capabilities rather than amenities.

And in that regard, the 2021 Ferrari SF90 over-delivers.

 A hypercar with a price tag of over a half-million dollars

The 2021 Ferrari SF90 has a suggested starting price of $507,000. It’s available in a hardtop-coupe Stradale and a convertible Spider.

That’s a lot of cash to drop on a car, but with out-of-this-world acceleration and heart-pumping capabilities, it’s a tough vehicle to walk away from regardless of price.

For those with pockets deep enough to close the deal, the Ferrari SF90 provides superior exterior styling and an unusually comfortable cabin for a hypercar.

The folks at Car and Driver describe the SF90 as delivering “pavement-blistering acceleration.” Moreover, they note its “stratospheric performance” is “worth every penny.”

After test-driving the vehicle, they noted, “This plug-in hybrid Ferrari hypercar’s uncompromising performance gives us both a taste of the storied Italian automaker’s future and a tantalizing car for the present.”

What the 2021 Ferrari SF90 doesn’t have

Despite its astronomical price, the Ferrari SF90 lacks a few basic features. For starters, storage space is virtually nonexistent with a minuscule three cubic feet. Also, instead of boasting a touchscreen display, the infotainment system has an LCD monitor. And though it comes with Apple CarPlay integration, it doesn’t offer Android Auto.

The voice-activated navigation and six-speaker audio system are the highlights of the limited technology features. Safety and driver-assist features are also spare, with only rear parking sensors and the mandatory backup camera.

It’s not unusual for hypercars to be hyper-focused on performance more than anything else. As a result, peak driving capabilities trump the amenities found in lower-priced vehicles.

But the Ferrari SF90 delivers extreme performance

The 2021 Ferrari SF90 packs a powerful 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that works in unison with three powerful electric motors. As a result, this mid-engine hypercar harnesses a mind-boggling 986 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. In addition, the impressive V8 churns out 769 hp on its own, providing undeniable power.

Road & Track calls the 2021 Ferrari SF90 Stradale “the fastest, most powerful road car they ever built.”

Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the all-wheel-drive hypercar outpaces other high-performance vehicles with its acceleration time. The Ferrari SF90 can zip from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.5 seconds with ease.

Laser-focused on performance, the 2021 SF90 also boasts driving modes such as EV only, Hybrid, and Qualify to adapt to any road condition.

In hybrid mode, the car can attain an impressive 51 to 70 MPGe. However, in gas-only mode, fuel economy is predictably lackluster at 18 to 22 mpg. And in electric-only mode, the driving range is a mere 15 miles.

The 2021 SF90 is the first front-wheel-drive vehicle to came out of Ferrari’s production facilities. That in and of itself may warrant the hefty price tag.

RELATED: Prepare to Spend Over $500,000 for the Most Expensive 2021 Ferrari

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Cars and Bids Bargain of the Week: 2012 Jaguar XJL Supercharged

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The oncoming electrification of Jaguar means some of the brand’s models have been delayed or discontinued. And despite initial reports to the contrary, that includes the Jaguar XJ sedan. However, thanks to depreciation, used luxury cars like the XJ can be bought for significantly less than their original MSRPs. And that includes higher-trim versions like the 2012 Jaguar XJL Supercharged listed this week on Cars and Bids.

A Jaguar XJL Supercharged is a faster, more powerful, and roomier XJ

2012 Jaguar XJ | Jaguar

The Jaguar XJ has been the British automaker’s flagship sedan since its debut in 1968. And 2011 saw the release of the eight-gen model. It featured styling and powertrains drawn from the XF and was available in standard- and long-wheelbase form. The latter is the Jaguar XJL, and it has 4.9” more legroom than the standard XJ.

Of the three powertrains available, the Jaguar XJL Supercharged slots between the base car and the Supersport. All three trims have a 5.0-liter V8, but the ones on Supersport and Supercharged XJLs have, well, superchargers. So, instead of 385 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, the XJL Supercharged has 470 hp and 424 lb-ft of torque. That’s sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.

The brown-and-beige-leather-upholstered driver's side front interior of a 2012 Jaguar XJ
2012 Jaguar XJ driver’s side front interior | Jaguar

Because the Jaguar XJL Supercharged has an ‘aluminum-intensive’ construction, it’s fairly light for an executive luxury sedan. As a result, Car and Driver recorded its 0-60 mph time at 4.4 seconds, tying a contemporary Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. And it’s worth noting the AMG has 48 more hp and 41 more lb-ft of torque.

Apart from straight-line speed, the Jaguar XJL Supercharged also offers solid handling in the corners, MotorTrend notes. Its adaptive dampers give the sedan a comfortable ride without sacrificing agility. Plus, it’s still a luxury sedan, with features like leather upholstery, a 12.3” digital gauge cluster, metal trim, and that trick rising rotary gear selector.

And as demonstrated below, those are just the start.

The 2012 Jaguar XJL Supercharged on Cars and Bids

A black 2012 Jaguar XJL Supercharged in a parking lot
2012 Jaguar XJL Supercharged | Jaguar

The 2012 Jaguar XJL Supercharged currently listed on Cars and Bids is a stock example with 116,600 miles on the clock. And apart from some scuffs, scrapes, stone chips, and interior wear, it’s in good shape. More to the point, it’s a well-equipped example of an XJL.

Besides the features mentioned earlier, this 2012 Jaguar XJL Supercharged has an active differential, self-leveling rear air springs, blind-spot monitoring, and front and rear parking sensors. It also has a power trunk lid, power-folding auto-dimming mirrors, and a panoramic sunroof. Inside, this sedan has a suede headliner, heated and cooled front and rear seats, navigation, and rear-seat tray tables. The front seats are also massaging, and the audio system is a 1200-watt Bowers & Wilkins unit with 20 speakers.

The black-leather-upholstered and wood-trimmed interior of a black 2012 Jaguar XJL Supercharged seen through the rear door
2012 Jaguar XJL Supercharged interior | Cars and Bids

The seller bought this 2012 Jaguar XJL Supercharged as a certified pre-owned car in October 2016. Since then, they’ve replaced the boost sensor, the battery, and the A/C compressor, and performed an alignment. Plus, this sedan is still covered by an extended warranty until October 2021, or 128,341 miles, whichever comes first.

This is a stylish, speedy luxury sedan bargain

As of this writing, this 2012 Jaguar XJL Supercharged is listed on Cars and Bids at $6200 with three days left in the auction. That’s a significant decrease from its original MSRP; before options, the XJL Supercharged stickered at $90,500. And looking on Autotrader, examples with similar mileages are roughly three times more expensive at a minimum.

Although Jaguar doesn’t necessarily have the best reputation for reliability, overall, the XJL model seems fairly reliable. It’s one of the least complained-about Jaguars on CarComplaints, for instance. And this 2012 car has a warranty.

In short, this Jaguar XJL Supercharged makes for an affordable, well-equipped luxury sedan experience. One that, with the XJ’s death, you can’t get brand-new anymore.

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RELATED: Cars and Bids Bargain of the Week: 2008 Lexus IS F

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The Most Dangerous Things You Should Never Do on a Tractor

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Tractors are vital pieces of equipment, but as with any vehicle, they come with inherent risks. Without a thorough understanding of proper maintenance and safety procedures, you put yourself at risk of potentially fatal accidents. So here’s what you should never do when operating a tractor — and a few best practices to follow.

The risks of improper tractor operation

According to Utah State University, tractor accidents cause over 9,000 injuries each year. Unfortunately, approximately 800 of these injuries prove fatal, with nearly 50 percent of tractor-related deaths caused by overturns.

Adding to the tragic nature of these statistics is that most of these deaths are preventable. “Accidents do not just ‘happen,'” Utah State University explains, “They are caused, which is why they can be prevented.” So before operating a tractor, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the potential dangers so that you can keep yourself and those around you safe.

What to avoid when operating a tractor

Because almost half of tractor fatalities result from overturning, the most important safety measures will help you reduce this risk. According to Utah State University, this type of accident is generally a result of inattention or driving at high speeds. As such, it’s important to drive slowly and carefully, especially on slopes or uneven terrain. Also, if you plan to drive in an unfamiliar area, don’t go in unprepared — take a few minutes to examine the terrain for ditches or obstructions.

Also, you should never allow anyone to ride with you. It has only one seat, and it’s unsafe for another person to ride on the tractor when it’s in motion. In an accident, the tractor is designed to protect only the person sitting in the operator’s seat.

Additionally, you should avoid wearing loose clothing or accessories while operating a tractor. Items such as scarves or shirttails can become caught within the moving parts, creating a serious safety hazard. 

To prevent the vehicle from flipping backward, Utah State University says you should only ever hitch to the drawbar. Although it may be tempting to hitch to the seat bracket or axle, this can cause the tractor to flip backward almost instantaneously, with no time for you to get to safety. 

Safety best practices

There are plenty of things to avoid doing when operating a tractor. But what are some things you should be sure to do always? According to FarmProgress, one of the best steps you can take is to only operate a tractor with a rollover protection system, or ROPS. Ideally, the tractor should also have an enclosed cab. This will serve as an extra level of structural protection in the event of a rollover.

Along a similar vein, it’s best practice to remain in the operator’s seat with your seat belt fastened while in motion. Although you might be traveling at seemingly low speeds, the seat belt is as important in a tractor as it is in a car.

Finally, you should always maintain the tractor properly and follow every safety procedure described in the owner’s manual. This will tell you how to mount and dismount safely and how to start the tractor safely. In addition, you should always check the brakes, signals, and other safety devices regularly to ensure they’re functioning properly.

Operating a tractor is inherently risky, but you have the power to avoid dangerous accidents. By taking safety precautions seriously, driving slowly, and paying careful attention to your surroundings at all times, you’ll be able to protect yourself and everyone around you.

RELATED: Is It Illegal to Drive a Tractor on the Road?

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Save Money by Planning a Cheap Summer Road Trip

by Gabrielle DeSantis

There’s no beating around the bush here. Between fuel costs and hotel accommodations, planning a road trip can get expensive. The good news is that exploring the road ahead doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, there are plenty of ways to save money and plan a cheap summer road trip instead.

Planning ahead can save money on a summer road trip

Honda Element | Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

There are several ways to save money on a summer road trip. But if you’re hoping to plan the cheapest summer road trip possible? Well, that’s going to take some planning ahead. In fact, Discover reports that the best way to save money on a road trip is to plan ahead.

Fortunately, planning ahead isn’t all that difficult. After choosing your route, Discover suggests checking out travel review websites for money-saving tips. Trip Savvy also recommends downloading an app to find the cheapest gas stations along the way. 

Having your vehicle inspected before hitting the road can save you money on a road trip too. “Repairs at an unfamiliar auto shop are likely to be more expensive than at your home shop, not to mention any towing fees if you break down in the middle of nowhere,” explains Trip Savvy.

Finding a cheap place to stay during a summer road trip

Accommodations really come down to personal preference. But if you’re trying to plan a cheap summer road trip? Choosing the right accommodations can save you a good chunk of change. The good news is that there are easy ways to save on accommodations.

First, let’s talk about car camping. While car camping might not sound like the most glamorous experience, The Local Tourist reports that camping can save you money when planning a road trip. Some campsites are even free.

But if you’d prefer a hotel instead? The Local Tourist has a few helpful tips. Rather than booking direct, try using a cheap travel website like Priceline or TravelZoo. Depending on your destination, Groupon is also a good option for booking cheap hotels, The Local Tourist reports.

Other money-saving tips for cheap summer road trips

While both planning ahead and booking cheap accommodations are great ways to save money on a road trip, there are other ways to plan a cheap summer road trip. Rather than buying your snacks on the road, Trip Savvy suggests buying your snacks and drinks ahead of time. Skipping the drive-thru can also save you money on a road trip.

Another easy way to save money is to avoid getting pulled over. Before hitting the road, Trip Savvy suggests familiarizing yourself with local traffic laws and regulations. Having a good understanding of this information can help prevent any run-ins with local law enforcement. 

Planning a road trip doesn’t have to be expensive

With summer in swing, you may find yourself wanting to plan a summer road trip. The good news is that planning one doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, with these tips in mind, saving money on a road trip is a pretty easy feat. 
RELATED: These 3 Things Might Ruin Your Summer Road Trip Plans This Year

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