Automobiles Review

Author: Georgi Boychev

Jeep showcases details for the new Grand Cherokee L model

New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is already heading to dealers across the globe today. The new version of the famous SUV now comes with three rows of seats and tons of advanced technologies.

The vehicle is designed to deliver enhanced capacity and excellent performance rates. It comes with advanced 4×4 systems, Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive IIm Quadra-Lift air suspension, and Selec-Terrain traction system. Also, the new Grand Cherokee L comes with a revised architecture and sculpted aerodynamic body style that ensures neat performance and more safety. It also reduces weight, noise, and vibration.

SEE ALSO: Dacia unveils new Duster – a reliable SUV with tons of features

The jeep team continues to provide enhanced capability and excellent versatility for those who seek more. Not only the Cherokee, Compass, Gladiator, Grand Cherokee, Renegade, and Wrangler models have proven their excellence throughout the years but also showcased that the Jeep team can continue to ensure legendary quality without sacrificing any contemporary utilities and gadgets.

June 22, 2021
Dacia unveils new Duster – a reliable SUV with tons of features
Dacia enhances and upgrades the Duster SUV lineup. The latest family member features a refreshed design, tons of new features, and neat tech concepts. So, let’s see what the latest family member has to showcase!

Exterior design

Unveiled with the new Desert Orange exterior finish, the new Duster proudly showcases a refreshed design. This iteration is more stylish, but also more aggressive, compared to predecessor models.

The front adopts a new styling approach, similar to the new Sandero and Sandero Stepway. The newcomer includes a Y-shaped daytime running lights design, a new 3D chromed radiator grille and overall refreshment to Duster’s face.

Furthermore, the dynamic lines are also continued to the side and the rear-end, where a new spoiler proudly sits and complements the neat 16- and 17-inch alloys.

Interior design

New Duster improves the comfort of the occupants with a more inviting and functional cabin. The interior features new upholstery, new headrests, and a high center console with a wide retracting armrest.

A major new feature is the inclusion of a high central console with a large computer screen, automatic main beam activation and cruise control, and speed limiter with backlight controls on the steering wheel.

Furthermore, the vehicle can be specified with a choice of two multimedia systems. In addition to the Dacia Plug and Music audio system, the two available systems are Media Display and Media Nav.

Drivetrain system

New Duster’s engine range is now completely renewed and blends an agile performance capability with reduced CO2 emissions. The vehicle can also be specified with an available six-speed automatic EDC gearbox with a TCe 150 power unit or a six-speed automatic EDC with TCe 150 engine.

SEE ALSO: PEUGEOT reveals full details for the new 308 SW lineup

Talking about engines, the new Duster has a full range of Euro 6D power units. This lineup includes:

Diesel:
- dCi 115 (two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive) combined with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Petrol:
- TCe 90 (two-wheel drive) combined with a six-speed manual gearbox.
- TCe 130 (two-wheel drive) combined with a six-speed manual gearbox.
- TCe 150 (two-wheel drive) combined with a six-speed automatic EDC gearbox.
- Bi-Fuel (petrol-LPG): TCe 100 (two-wheel drive) combined with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Safety features

In addition to the standard Cruise Control and Speed Limiter functions, the new Duster comes with the latest generation of ESC as a standard. Additional systems include Blind Spot Warning, Park Assist, Hill Start Assist, Adaptive Hill Descent Control, Multiview Camera, and more.
June 22, 2021
PEUGEOT reveals full details for the new 308 SW lineup

New PEUGEOT 308 SW comes with even more practical solutions, alongside the expressive style ant the contemporary design. The new vehicle comes with an efficient plug-in hybrid technology and advanced petrol and diesel engines.

Exterior design

The new 308 SW blends sharp lines and elegant curves that together form striking exterior looks. The sloping roof has been designed to maximize the internal space for passengers and load items, while the pronounced skirt contributes to this sleek and aggressive stance.

At the front, PEUGEOT 308 SW showcases a new logo and new face design with neat Eco LED headlights as standard, and “fang” daytime running lights, while the rear reveals these same LED lights, but in the well-known claw signature styling.

Interior design

Based on the new version of PEUGEOT’s EMP2 multi-energy platform, the 308 SW comes with ample loading space and an overall comfortable ambiance. The loading capacity of the vehicle is 608-liters, extending to 1,634 when the rear seats are folded.

Utility features include PEUGEOT’s latest version of the i-Cockpit system and a new i-Connect Advanced Infotainment system with a large 10-inch display. Furthermore, the vehicle comes with a small steering wheel with sensors to detect the driver’s grip when using driving aids, redesigned air vents for optimum efficiency and comfort, and an i-Toggle suite that offers personalized shortcut keys for numerous interior functions.

The seats in each PEUGEOT 308 SW have been designed with comfort in mind and are given the Aktion für Gesunder Rücken certification, thanks to their ergonomics and wide range of adjustment options.

Drivetrain system

The entire 308 SW lineup is available with two plug-in hybrid engines:

HYBRID 225 e-AT8 – it combines a 180hp PureTech power unit and an 81kW electric motor mated to an e-EAT8 automatic gearbox. This combination emits 26g/km of CO2 emissions and can cover about 36 miles with its electric engine.

Then there is the HYBRID 180 e-EAT8, which combines a 150hp PureTech engine with an 81kW electric engine and the same e-EAT8 gearbox. This system emits 25g/km of C02 and covers up to 37 miles of 100% electric range.

Furthermore, both versions are powered by a 12.4kWh lithium-ion battery and can be specified with two types of onboard charges – a standard 3.7kW charger and an optional 7.4kW fast charger.

SEE ALSO: The E-type Club celebrates E-TYPE’s 60th anniversary

The PEUGEOT 308 SW is also available with one petrol and one diesel engine. Both of them are Euro 6D compliant and emit as little as 117g/km of CO2. The petrol engine is a 1.2-liter PureTech 130 S&S EAT8 with an eight-speed automatic, and the diesel is a 1.5-liter BlueHDi 130 S&S EAT8 with an eight-speed automatic.

June 22, 2021
The E-type Club celebrates E-TYPE’s 60th anniversary

The 60^th anniversary of the Jaguar E-Type was celebrated in style as about 400 E-types, their owners, and sixty specialist exhibitors and enthusiasts gathered for the E-type 60 event. The event is sponsored by SNG Barratt Group and Twyford Moors and was held under the sunny skies of the historic Shelsley Walsh motorsport setting.

The co-founder of the club, Philip Porter, Chairman of Worcester Civic Society Phil Douce, and Motor Sport editor Joe Dunn, unveiled a blue plaque in commemoration of the Stirling Moss first competing at Shelsley Walsh back in 1948.

Also, the audience had the chance to have a look at the E2A Le Mans prototype and the first two E-types ever created. The event also played host to a special reunion of the 1961 Geneva Motor Show trio – the first time these three cars have been seen together for sixty years!

SEE ALSO: Ford reveals the first-ever customer-specified model in brand’s lineup

The first in a series of videos from E-type 60 Filming partner, Berlinetta Films, showing E2A driving up the Hillclimb: https://youtu.be/JiS2GZexMJI

Some of the entertainment events included Hillclimb action, motor art exhibition, chat with E-type experts, a 60s-themed party, and more.

June 21, 2021
Ford reveals the first-ever customer-specified model in brand’s lineup

Following an innovative experiment in human center design, the Ford team revealed the winning specs for the new Puma ST Gold Edition that will be available for order in limited numbers later in 2021.

Ford fans have cast about 275,000 votes in a series of polls on the brand’s Twitter and Instagram channels over the course of 10 days and chose the color combinations for different components of the vehicle, including the car’s paint, decals, and brake calipers. The voters also had the chance to decide the name of the vehicle.

As a result, the new Puma ST is the first-ever Ford Performance model to feature a crowd-sourced design concept. It has the following features:

Black exterior color finish, red brake calipers, grey seatbelt stitching, linear exterior decals, ST exterior badges, Puma scuff plates, ST pride plate, and “Puma ST Gold Edition” as a name.

To create something truly special for our loyal performance fans, we’ve moved to a forward-looking approach in co-creating the Puma ST Gold Edition with them. The number of votes cast shows just how enthusiastic our customers are – and that they have excellent taste, said Amko Leenarts, director, Design, Ford of Europe. It’s all in the details, and with this special edition, our fans have configured a truly desirable product.

SEE ALSO: Nissan showcases a neat digital performance in London

The vehicle will be powered by a 200hp 1.5-liter EcoBoost petrol engine and will include selectable driving modes like Sport, Track, and Eco, as well as a unique-in-segment limited-slip differential option, patented force vectoring springs, and unique suspension and steering specifications for exceptional cornering responses.

Deliveries are expected until the end of 2021.

June 21, 2021
Nissan showcases a neat digital performance in London [VIDEO]

As a part of the launching campaign of the third-generation Nissan Qashqai, the electrified vehicle with mild hybrid technology, TBWA\London has devised Europe’s first automotive 3D experiential activity.

The campaign is already launched and will run for a week, with a dramatic 3D installation placed on London’s Southbank in order to announce the arrival of the latest Nissan model. Also, this is the first time that a 3D experiential technology has been used in an automotive advertising campaign.

Creating a pretty realistic sense of depth and volume within a massive cube, the content appears to leap out of the screen towards the viewer. Further 2D features on the rear two screens, facing the river are also present.

The audience that gathers to witness the spectacular digital performance can also scan a QR code which allows them to see the new Qashqai in a rich augmented reality from their smartphone.

SEE ALSO: Subaru announces details for the new 2022 Impreza lineup

Nic Thomas, Marketing Director at Nissan Motor GB Ltd., commented: The all-new Nissan Qashqai sets a new benchmark in design and technology, continuing Nissan’s proud history of innovation for the masses. This exciting 3D installation brings that powerful message to spectators in a way many will never have experienced digital content before. We are delighted to be launching our flagship car with this innovative customer experience that will equally excite those watching in London, or seeing digital footage online.

Designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK, the all-new Nissan Qashqai is available with a new electrified petrol mild-hybrid powertrain and boasts a sleeker and roomier design than its predecessors.

https://youtu.be/jdEnz9hItz8

June 21, 2021
Subaru announces details for the new 2022 Impreza lineup

Subaru of America, Inc., announced more details for the 2022 Impreza sedan and the 5-door model variants. Offered in four trim levels, Base, Premium, Sport, and Limited, the new Impreza vehicle arrives at retailers this summer.

For 2022 model year, all models can be specified with an exclusive new color – Sapphire Blue Peal, which can be paired to either black or ivory interior, depending on the trim level. Also, all 2022 Impreza models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT come standard with the award-winning Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology that includes Automatic Pre-Collision Braking and Throttle Management, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, and Lead Vehicle Start Alert. Models with the CVT also feature Rear Seat Reminder.

Furthermore, 20222 Impreza comes standard with the well-known Subaru Symmetrical AWD system and a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder direct-injection SUBARU BOXER power unit that produces a total of 152hp and 145lb-ft of torque. Also standard on all trim levels is the Lineartronic CVT and for Premium and above comes with a 7-speed manual mode with paddle shifters.

2022 Impreza

The base model in the lineup comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, Rear Seat Reminder, high-grade combination meter with 4.2-inch color LCD, Tire Pressure Monitoring System with Automatic Individual Wheel ID Registration, and, on the sedan, an electronic trunk lid release.

Furthermore, the Base comes with a SUBARU STARLINK 6.5-inch Multimedia system with touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, power windows with auto up/auto-down on both driver and passenger sides, 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, power door locks and side mirrors, multi-function display with fuel economy information, tilt and telescoping steering column, keyless entry, security system with engine immobilizer, carpeted floor mats and more.

2022 Impreza Premium

The trim level includes all features from the Base model and adds a 7-speed manual mode function with steering wheel paddle shifters, along with STARLINK 6.5-inch Multimedia Plus, STARLINK Safety and Security features, fog lights and the All-Weather Package with heated front seats, windshield, and exterior mirrors.

An option package for Premium adds a Power Moonroof, Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Keyless Access with Push-Button Start and 6-way power driver’s seat.

2022 Impreza Sport

This model offers agile performance and fun-to-drive character with exclusive suspension fine-tuning, Active Torque Vectoring, and a manual gearbox. The vehicle also comes standard with exclusive 18-inch machine finish alloys, SUBARU STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Plus system, Keyless Access with Push-Button Start, aluminum pedals, and leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift handle, and CVT shift boot.

SEE ALSO: New SKODA Enyaq iV is in dealerships!

An option package includes Power Moonroof, Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Harmon Kardon amplifier and speakers and 6-way power driver’s seat is also available.

Impreza Limited

2022 Limited trim level delivers a touch of luxury and adds some neat utility features that contribute to an even more pleasurable driving experience.

The Limited features a more upscale exterior design with LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and 17-inch machine-finished alloys. In terms of interior, the vehicle is trimmed with double stitching and comes with a 6-way adjustable driver’s seat. Some of the standard utilities include an automatic climate control system, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, Keyless Access with Push-Button Start, and STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Plus system.

There are also features with Reverse Automatic Braking and Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Keep Assist and Rear-Cross Traffic Alert. Standard High Beam Assist and Steering Responsive Headlights enhance nighttime visibility.

June 21, 2021
PEUGEOT celebrates 30 years since the unveiling of the first 106 model

Back in 1991, PEUGEOT 106 was introduced for the first time and was presented as “a ball of sympathy wrapped in smiles and dressed in charm that feels so perfectly at home in its 3.56m of surprises and amazement.” Also, the charming vehicle aided to broaden brand’s B-segment portfolio and offer more choice for PEUGEOT’s enthusiast.

PEUGEOT 106 was mainly manufacturer in Mulhouse, Eastern France and was first introduced with petrol engines sizes from 954 to 1587cm3 and Diesel models from 1360 to 1558cm3.

There were about 20 different special editions produced and the most iconic remain the “Roland Garros” and “Zenith” from 1993, the well-known 106 Kid with jean seats introduced in 1994, 106 Cartoon presented by Droopy from 1996 to 1999, the elegant “Inès de la Fressange” in 1997, and the Enfant Terrible marketed in 2000.

Alongside the fun iterations, PEUGEOT also presented models with performance in mind. The most famous ones are the 1993 106 Rallye, 1992 106 XSL, and the 1996 106 S16 120hp. A year later, in 1997, the 106 Maxi was unveiled.

In fact, this was one of the very first electric models ever produced. PEUGEOT presented the VLV’ (Voiture Légère de Ville, or ‘electric city car’) back in 1941. Decades later, the model held a world record for electric car sales until 2010.

SEE ALSO: New SKODA Enyaq iV is in dealerships!

The PEUGEOT Aventure Museum in Sochaux is dedicating an exhibition to the PEUGEOT 106. Eight models will be on display for the anniversary: 1994 106 Rallye, 1992 106 XSI, 1995 106 Signature, 1997 106 S16, 2002 106 Enfant Terrible from, 1996 106 Electric, 1997 106 Maxi and a prototype 106 Cabriolet from 1992.

June 18, 2021
New SKODA Enyaq iV is in dealerships!

SKODA’s highly-anticipated Enyaq iV is already available for purchase!

The model was firstly showcased back in 2019 as a Vision iV concept vehicle and showcased SKODA’s future plans for electrified vehicles.

Now, the production vehicle offers innovative drivetrain technology, elegant design, and a large list of standard features. The Enyaq iV is specially designed to fit a wide range of people and answer the needs of even the most demanding customer.

The range consists of two variants: Enyaq iV 60 Nav and Enyaq iV 80 with 62kWh and 82kWh battery packs respectively.

Along with the technical excellence, the entire Enyaq range provides customers with a cozy and elegant interior with tons of functions, a dedicated suite of safety features, and an overall rewarding driving experience with numerous utility and convenience gadgets.

Furthermore, any vehicle in the lineup comes with aftersale care packages: Small Medium, and Large. The first one, the Small covers customers for essential servicing like brake fluid changes, dust and pollen filters leaning. It also includes Driverline concierge – 24/7 service that covers breakdown, recovery, and glass care.

SEE ALSO: Hyundai announces more details for the rally-inspired i20 N

The Medium pack adds routine maintenance services, including brake, suspension, and cooling system repairs, electric system maintenance, all fluids top-ups.

The Large pack adds includes tire replacement and wheel alignment (due to fair wear and tear), puncture repair, geometry check, and wheel balance.

June 18, 2021
Hyundai announces more details for the rally-inspired i20 N

Hyundai Motor has announced details and specs for the all-new and World-Rally Championship-inspired i20 N model lineup.

The model is based on the successful i20 lineup and takes inspiration from the i20 Coupe WRC vehicle. It blends an elegant and yet aggressive design, refined drivetrain system, and tons of advanced safety systems.

Drivetrain system

The vehicle is capable of producing a total of 204hp and 275Nm of torque via a 1.6-liter T-GDi turbocharged flat power four-cylinder power unit. Hyundai’s engineers have managed to utilize the performance-focused engine for any everyday driving situation. An additional feature that contributes to i20 N’s smooth performance is the optimal power-to-weight ratio – curb weight ranges from 1190kg to 1330kg depending on specification.

Additional tech aspects include the N Corner Carving Differential, a mechanical limited-slip differential that regulates the gearbox of the engine’s output to the front wheels and ensures optimum grip and traction in any road situation.

There’s also a launch control system that ensures maximum-power acceleration start to every run and seamless synchronization between the engine and output shaft for smoother gear changes. Also, the vehicle provides five driving modes, Normal, Eco, Sport, N, and N Custom, which are offered by Hyundai’s N Grin Control System.

Exterior design

At the front, the new i20 N showcases an aggressive face with elegant LED headlamps and a full-width radiator grille, a neat N logo, and a distinctive front lip spoiler. At the rear, the sporty spirit is enhanced by the matte finish 18-inch alloy wheels and red brake calipers with N logos on the vehicle’s profile.

The i20 N can be specified in Polar White, Dragon Red, Phantom Black, and Intense Blue pearl effect paint finishes and Sleek Silver and Brass metallic paint finishes.

Interior design

i20 N comes with a spacious and motorsport-inspired cabin. There are exclusive N sport seats in fabric and leather with decorative stitching in Performance Blue. In fact, such accents can be seen on the door armrest panels, the aluminum panel on the rear knob, and stitching on the gear lever gaiter.

SEE ALSO: Polestar announces details for upcoming vehicles and business approaches

In terms of interior technology, every model in the lineup is equipped with state-of-the-art infotainment technology with a 10.25-inch Centre Console Display, Touchscreen Navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth Connectivity with Voice Recognition, and a 5-year subscription to Hyundai’s Bluelink Connectivity service, wireless charging pad, along with a USB connection for both front and rear seat occupants. An advanced digital DAB radio is a standard feature, while a BOSE Premium Sound Package can be geared optionally.

Safety technologies

The all-new i20 N is equipped with Hyundai SmartSense Advanced Drivers Assistance System and includes features like Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Assist with Pedestrian Monitoring & Cycle Detection, eCall (Emergency Call Button), Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

June 18, 2021
Polestar announces details for upcoming vehicles and business approaches

Polestar, the premium manufacturer announced details for its first all-electric SUV.

The forthcoming Polestar 3 will come with an aerodynamic and beautiful body design, advanced technological features and will be manufactured alongside new Volvo vehicles at the Volvo Cars production plant in Ridgeville, South Carolina.

Polestar was launched back in 2017 by Volvo Cars and Geely Holding. The Ridgeville plant was opened in 2018 by Volvo Cars and Polestar’s recent expansion marks the success of Volvo Cars’ significant industrial synergies with other businesses and manufacturers.

As it comes to the vehicle itself, Polestar 3 will debut a new generation of electric vehicles and technical approaches, all designed from scratch for this particular model. Along with these, Polestar 3 will also feature some industry-leading connectivity features based on Google’s native systems, as well as a high-end safety suite.

The announcement of Polestar’s manufacturing expansion was followed by large investments, all done by the brand’s long-term partners. Also, the company has confirmed that it will continue exploring future partnership opportunities.

June 17, 2021
New 2022 Civic hits dealerships today. Here are some details!

Honda’s new Civic Sedan lineup arrives at dealerships today. The all-new 2022 vehicle features an elegant exterior, functional and cozy interior, agile dynamics and advanced technologies.

All 2022 Civic Sedan models benefit from extensive improvements made to the body, chassis and powertrain. Also, all new Civics come with Honda Sensing suite as a standard feature with tons of driver-assistive and safety technologies of which some are Traffic Jam Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System.

2022 Civic Sedan trim levels

The first in the lineup is the Civic LX, which comes with a naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter 4-cylinder power unit and a continuously variable gearbox. The setup produces a total of 158hp. Also standard are the 7-inch color touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, push-button start, digital instrumentation, and LED headlights.

The next in line is the Civic Sport which builds on the previous trim level and adds exclusive 18-inch wheels, low-profile tires, black exterior accents and chrome exhaust finish. Inside, the model features an 8-speaker audio system, Sport-specific seating surfaces, leather-wrapped shift know and steering wheel, paddle shifters, sports pedals, and more.

Civic EX comes with a more advanced 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder power unit and a CVT that has undergone some fine-tuning. The vehicle produces a total of 180hp and 177lb-ft of torque. Some of the features include Blind-spot information, a one-touch power sliding moonroof, heated seats, and outside mirrors, and dual-zone automatic climate control are all standard.

SEE ALSO: BMW Group begins testing of the i Hydrogen NEXT with hydrogen fuel cell engine

The last vehicle in the lineup is Civic Touring. This model features leather seats, power front seats, Sirius XM radio, satellite-based navigation system and more. Furthermore, 2022 Touring receives a larger 9-inch color touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a Civic-first Bose premium sound system, a new 10.2-inch all-digital and customizable instrument display, front and rear parking sensors, Sport driving mode, wireless smartphone charging, and LED fog lights. Touring also adds Civic’s first implementation of low-speed braking control.

June 17, 2021