Automobiles Review

Author: Georgi Boychev

  • Salon Privé will be the host to the debut of Automobili Estema Fulminea

    2021 Automobili Estrema FulmineaThe stunning Automobili Estema Fulminea will make its UK debut at this year’s Salon Privé, held 1-5 September 2021. The vehicle is a part of a new Concept & Prototypes class in the prestigious Concours d’Elégance.

    The vehicle itself is a fully electric hypercar built by Automobili Estrema, founded in 2020 by Gianfranco Pizzuto. Based in Modena, Italy, the manufacturer tries to make some giant leaps in terms of contemporary automobile technologies and showcase some neat ideas and concepts.

    The vehicle is set to go on sale in 2023, the vehicle is also believed to be the first vehicle in the world to use a new hybrid battery pack that blends Li-Ion cells with solid-state electrolyte and ultracapacitors. This kind of setup would provide 100kWh of energy and will contribute to some whopping performance rates – 2040hp and 0 to 320kph acceleration in 10 seconds. What we also know is that the vehicle would cover about 520km with a single charge and weights about 300kg.

    SEE ALSO: New SKODA Kodiaq: a quick overview

    As part of the Concepts & Prototypes division, the Fulminea will be a contestant for the most stylish and elegant vehicle at the event.

    Gianfranco Pizzuto, Founder and CEO of Automobili Estrema, said  the Fulminea marks the beginning of a new generation of electric cars – it has all the characteristics of a racing car, but features a fully electric powertrain and innovative solutions. Our philosophy is based on four main concepts – romance, elegance, purity and balance – and we can think of nowhere better than Salon Privé at which to give the Fulminea its UK debut.

    2021-Automobili-Estrema-Fulminea-Top

  • New SKODA Kodiaq: a quick overview

    2021 SKODA KodiaqSKODA announced final specs and details for the new and fully updated Kodiaq. The revised range arrives in July reveals tons of design changes and specification improvements, alongside new engine options and enhanced assistive technologies.

    Exterior and interior design

    The Kodiaq proudly showcases new front end with six-sided radiator grille and a higher bonnet. The bumpers are redesigned to contribute to that sharper appearance and the central air intake is now a bit wider than the predecessors. SE and SE L trim and aluminum-effect on the front and rear apron and give that more rugged and aggressive feel.

    The vehicle also benefits from a new front lights design and now feature a full LED Matrix lights that are a part of the standard equipment from SE L upwards.

    As it comes to the interior, the Kodiaq is the most spacious and practical vehicle in the entire lineup. The new model features a two-spoke steering wheel and tons of driver-assistive technologies.

    Drivetrain system

    2021 SKODA Kodiaq

    The revised Kodiaq comes with five engine options – three petrol units and two diesels. Just as predecessor models, the GSG gearbox and the four-wheel drive are available on some trim levels.

    SEE ALSO: Lotus is this year’s Central Feature at the Goodwood Festival of Speed

    Furthermore, all Kodiaq engines are part of the EVO lineup, which focuses on efficiency. The sporting highlight is the new 2.0-liter TSI 245hp unit. It is lighter with about 60 kilograms, compared with the previous model and is mated to a DISG gearbox.

    2021 SKODA Kodiaq

    Source: SKODA 

  • Lotus is this year’s Central Feature at the Goodwood Festival of Speed

    2021 Lotus EvijaGoodwood announced that the Central Feature at the 2021 Festival of Speed will be Lotus. The iconic brand, best known for its advanced road and race cars will be the main focus at this year’s event and will showcase some neat features included in the vehicle lineup.

    Since its foundation back in 1997 to this present day, GoodWood Festival of Speed has showcased the most interesting and greatest achievements in the world of motorsport.

    As it comes to Lotus, the brand was last selected as the Central Feature back in 2012, with a 3D infinity loop sculpture that celebrated the singularity of purpose of a Lotus race car. Among the many records broken by Lotus, the Type 25 still holds Goodwood Motor Circuit’s period lap record. In the course of winning the last ever Formula 1 race at Goodwood, on Easter Monday 1965, Jim Clark in a Lotus 25 tied for fastest lap with Jackie Stewart, in a time of 1m 20.4. The record stands as a tribute to the skill and bravery of the drivers and to the passion for lightweight engineering and innovation that thrives at Lotus to this day.

    SEE ALSO: Renault expands the Captur lineup and presents R.S. Line and SE Limited trim levels

    At this year’s event, Lotus will also unveil to the Emira, brand’s all-new and anticipated sports car. Developed as part of the ongoing transformation of Lotus which has captured the imagination of car enthusiasts worldwide, the Emira will set new standards of technology, comfort, functionality and everyday useability for Lotus.

    Commenting on the announcement, the Duke of Richmond said: We are delighted that Lotus will star as the Central Feature at this year’s Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard. Lotus cars raced with great success at Goodwood throughout the 1950s and ‘60s, including setting the ultimate lap record in 1965, and this year’s Central Feature will serve as a fitting landmark to their past, present and future achievements. The sculpture looks set to be one of the most dramatic and futuristic yet, bringing in elements of interactivity for modern audiences that align with Lotus’ future-facing attitude and outlook.

  • Renault expands the Captur lineup and presents R.S. Line and SE Limited trim levels

    2021 Renault CapturRenault further expands and enhances the popular Captur crossover lineup with the addition of two new versions – RS Line and SE Limited. Both trim levels are available on the Captur model for the first time and join the already appealing Play, Iconic and S Edition trim levels.

    Captur R.S. Line

    This trim level is characterized by high-performance and Formula 1 styling. This means that the vehicle comes with a more muscular bumper and a new honeycomb grille design with elegant LED front headlamps and a distinctive C-shaped shape. Furthermore, the model proudly showcases a revised air diffuser, RS Line badges, and exclusive 18-inch “Le Castellet” alloys.

    In terms of equipment, the standard list of goodies includes a 9.3-inch EASY LINK media display, Bluetooth connectivity, DAB and USB connectivity, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality.

    2021 Renault Captur Interior

    R.S. Line models also benefit from hands-free keycard with keyless entry and start, front and rear parking sensors with reversing camera, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, automatic air conditioning, automatic lights and wipers, sliding rear bench, modular boot floor, and MULTI-SENSE driving modes with eight ambient lighting colors.

    In terms of safety features, the vehicle is geared with Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Active Emergency Braking System (AEBS), and Traffic Sign Recognition.

    Powering the Captur R.S. Line is the latest range of efficient powertrains, including the advanced E-Tech plug-in hybrid offering up to 31 miles of zero tailpipe emissions, electric-only driving, up to 188.3mpg and as little as 34g/km in CO2 emissions.

    Captur SE Limited

    2021 Renault Captur

    This trim level is placed right between the Play and Iconic and offers unique exterior and interior features.

    For the outside, SE Limited showcases a two-tone paint scheme with a contrasting black roof and 17-inch alloys, “LIMITED” badges, and more. The interior is characterized by 7.0-inch EASY LINK touchscreen infotainment system offering navigation, live traffic information, and Google search capability on top of the usual DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.

    SEE ALSO: Jaguar presents the special R-Dynamic Black Edition lineup

    mild-hybrid technology, bringing electrification to a wider range of Captur models for enhanced responses and superior economy. This engine is also available with a choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed EDC automatic transmissions, while the TCe 90 use a six-speed manual transmission.

    Captur SE Limited customers can choose between the TCe 90 fitted with a manual gearbox or the optional  TCe 140 with EDC automatic transmission.

    2021 Renault Captur Details

    Source: Renault 

     

  • Jaguar presents the special R-Dynamic Black Edition lineup

    2021 Jaguar F-PACEJaguar upgrades the E-PACE range with a new R-Dynamic Black Edition and tons of advanced features. The lineup adopts the compact SUV design and allows for more personalization options.

    The range also features Jaguar’s advanced Premium Transverse Architecture and a choice of efficient Ingenium engines – including Plug-In Hybrid and Mild Hybrid Electric systems.

    Based on the E-PACE R-Dynamic S model, the new family member offers some exclusive design elements that give the vehicle a more dynamic and aggressive presence. Such components include glossy black mirror caps and glossy black details such as the front bumper and low grille surround, main grille surround, and the grille tips. The exterior is topped off with special and distinctive 19-inch Satin Grey alloys.

    The cabin is characterized by a curved 11.4-inch HD touchscreen, smartphone incorporation, Pivi Pro, and more.

    Drivetrain system

    2021 Jaguar F-PACE

    The latest addition to the E-PACE lineup can be specified with a choice of 2.0-liter Ingenium MHEV engines, ranging from D165 and D200 diesel to P200 petrol unit – all mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox and an AWD system. The new engine system contributes to enhanced throttle response and a comfortable ride.

    SEE ALSO: New Kia EV6 comes with new design language and advanced electric engine

    The engine lineup includes:

    Diesel units:

    • 163PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo, six-speed manual, FWD
    • 163PS MHEV 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo, nine-speed automatic, AWD
    • 204PS MHEV 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo, nine-speed automatic, AWD

    Petrol units:

    • 200PS MHEV 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo, nine-speed automatic, AWD
    • 249PS MHEV 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo, nine-speed automatic, AWD
    • 300PS MHEV 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo, nine-speed automatic, AWD
    • 309PS PHEV 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo, eight-speed automatic, AWD

    The models with MHEV technology also come with a Belt integrated Starter Generator that recuperates energy that is lost during braking or deceleration and stores it within the 48-volt lithium-ion battery beneath the boot floor.

    2021 Jaguar F-PACE

    2021 Jaguar F-PACE

    Source: Jaguar 

  • New Kia EV6 comes with new design language and advanced electric engine

    2021 Kia EV6The new 2022 Kia EV6 crossover arrives to dealerships and represents brand’s first dedicated battery electric vehicle. What is special about this lineup is that it is based on the E-GMP modular platform that optimizes efficiency and enables advanced EV technologies within the vehicle drivetrain system.

    Furthermore, the E-GMP contributes to a new exterior design language with cues of a classic sports car and high-tech contemporary urban vehicle with a coupe-like profile. Along with the new kind of aesthetics, the EV platform also enables some neat performance capabilities and extended mile coverage of about 300 miles.

    The EV6 First Edition

    Kia will offer a special lineup of 1,500 units that will come with numerous unique features. Such are exclusive exterior color scheme, Augmented Reality Heads-Up Display, Remote Smart Parking Assist, wide sunroof, 20-inch wheels, premium 14-speaker Meridian audio system, and a two year subscription to Sirius XM7.

    ‘Opposites United’ CUV Design

    2021 Kia EV6 Rear

    Designed and manufactured in Kia’s design studio in Seoul, Frankfurt and Irvine, California, the EV6 crossover features a new design philosophy called “Opposites United”. The idea is based on the contrasts found in nature and everyday life. Some elements include:

    • Headlamps offer sequential dynamic light pattern
    • Flush exterior door handles
    • High rear deck serves as a spoiler
    • Cross-car rear light cluster
    • Wheel sizes will be available in 19, 20 or 21-inches
    • A Foundation for the Electric Age
    • E-GMP serves as the core technology for the next generation of Kia EVs.  Highlights include:
    • Rear-wheel-biased; available AWD capability with a front electric motor
    • Five-link rear suspension
    • Integrated drive axle (IDA) with enhanced ride comfort and handling
    • A long wheelbase and short overhangs for maximum interior space with a flat floor, no tunnel layout
    • Underfloor mounted battery placement enables low center of gravity for stability

    Drivetrain system

    2021 Kia EV6 Engine

    The heart of the vehicle is an energy-dense Nickel-Cobalt-Manganese battery pack in two sizes: 58klWh and 77.4kWh. Furthermore, the low-mounted underfloor pack delivers output to both RWD and AWD electric motor layouts.

    SEE ALSO: New Hyundai Kona is in the Ten Best Cars for Recent College Graduates list

    • EV6 comes with up to 576 horsepower and a different setup, depending on the trim level:
    • RWD: 58.0 kWh battery with a 160kW rear motor producing 167 horsepower
    • RWD: 77.4 kWh battery with a 160kW rear motor producing 218 horsepower
    • AWD: 77.4 kWh battery with a 70kW front motor and a 160kW rear motor producing 313 horsepower
    • AWD: 77.4 kWh battery with a 160kW front motor and a 270kW rear motor producing 576 horsepower (GT)

    Interior design

    2021 Kia EV6 Interior

    EV6 offers a contemporary and eco-friendly cabin with a spacious and functional design. Some of the standard features include:

    • Extensive use of recycled plastic throughout interior
    • 100% vegan leather surfaces on some trims
    • 100% LED lighting inside and out
    • Slim front seats
    • Thin seat frames use ultra-light “giga-steel” to maximize rear-seat space/knee room due to a slim seatback design
    •  Hands-free Smart Power Tailgate for easier cargo access
    • Panoramic dual integrated 12-inch TFT center cluster and infotainment screens that form a wide, horizontal, curved display extending across the instrument panel
    • Blue light-filtered screens to reduce eye strain and fatigue
    • Augmented Reality9 (AR) Head-Up Display (HUD) system projects graphics from the base of the windshield in a large three-dimensional image that appears to be over the hood of the car
    • Provides speed and Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) alerts, vehicle information, lane guidance and turn-by-turn navigation instructions
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    Source: Kia 

     

     

  • New Hyundai Kona is in the Ten Best Cars for Recent College Graduates list

    2021 Hyundai KonaHyundai Kona has been named one of Autotrader’s 2021 Ten Best Cars for Recent College Graduates. The vehicle managed to impress the jury with its eco-focused drivetrain system, sporty spirit and overall functional packaging for a reasonable price.

    Also, alongside the advanced drivetrain system, the vehicle offers a contemporary design with elegant expression and modern technologies.

    “The Hyundai Kona is one of those small, affordable cars that are so much fun and have such a unique character that it really feels like a much more expensive car. In the world of $25,000 cars, new or used, the Hyundai Kona is worth a test drive.” said Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader. All vehicles on this year’s Ten Best list are available for under $25,000 and achieve a combined fuel economy rating of at least 30 mpg.

    SEE ALSO: 2021 Subaru Crosstrek receives a special award by Autotrader

    As it seems, Hyundai Motor America has managed not only to retain its positions as a reputable manufacturer but also expand its fanbase, thanks to the neat engineering solutions it offers and the flexibility when it comes to personalization and customization. Hyundai vehicles are serviced and sold in more than 820 dealerships around the US and nearly half of these are built at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama. Hyundai Motor America is headquartered in Fountain Valley, California, and is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea.

    Source: Hyundai 

  • 2021 Subaru Crosstrek receives a special award by Autotreader

    2021-Subaru-Crosstrek-910Subaru of America, Inc. announced that the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is a part of Autotreader’s 10 Best Cars for Recent College Graduates for 2021. The jury awarded the Crosstrek for its efficiency, practicality, and off-road capabilities.

    The Autotrader 10 Best Cars for Recent College Graduates recognizes vehicles with a practical value, fuel efficiency, safety and reliability.

    As it comes to the vehicle itself, the new Subaru Crosstrek also offers enhanced cargo capabilities, and is geared with brand’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and has earned a 5-star vehicle safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

    Alongside with its ambitions to push the boundaries of conventional automobile manufacturing further, Subaru of America also takes care for people – the brand has donated more than $200 million to causes with families in mind and employees have logged more than 63,000 volunteer hours.

    SEE ALSO: Vauxhall Vivaro-e HYDROGEN offers advanced features and 249-mile range

    Graduating college and moving to the next chapter is one of the most exciting times in a young adult’s life. The Subaru Crosstrek, which is not only safe, reliable and economical, is also fun to drive and can carry friends and gear on off-road adventures,said Thomas J. Doll, President and CEO, Subaru of America, Inc, We are proud to be an Autotrader Best Car for Recent College Graduates, and even more proud to carry the next generation through life’s journeys.

    Source: Subaru of America, Inc.

  • McLaren Automotive further expands its business relations

    2021 McLaren Pace CarMcLaren Automotive has expanded its partnership network and established a business relationship with Intelligent Money British GT Championship with a McLaren safety car set to lead a grid of other seven McLaren Customer Racing entries.

    The official Safety Car comes with a 620hp twin-turbocharged V8 power unit that enables some quick sprints, measured at 0-100km/h coverage in mere 3.2 seconds. The top speed is 203mph. The vehicle also features a Proactive Damping Control suspension.

    Back in 2020, the McLaren 720S GT 3 was established as a pace-setter in the GT3 class, with five pole positions and two overall race victories. There were also title challenge wins in the overall and Silver Cup categories.

    SEE ALSO: McLaren Special Operations recreates the exclusive Gulf livery

    Now, the program returns in 2021, with Team Rocket RJN partnering with McLaren Automotive to help find talented drivers.

    We are delighted that McLaren has extended its official Safety Car status into the sixth season. The manufacturer has been ever-present at the front of our grid since 2016, and when the GT model made its first appearance in the role last year, it proved perfectly suited to controlling our race car pack. We look forward to seeing it at the head of the field again throughout 2021.
    Lauren Granville, Intelligent Money British GT Championship Manager

    2021 McLaren Pace Car

    Source: McLaren Automotive 

     

  • Vauxhall Vivaro-e HYDROGEN offers advanced features and 249 mile range

    2021 Vauxhall-e HYDROGENRecently revealed, Vauxhall’s new zero-emission Vivaro-e HYDROGEN light commercial vehicle offers a range of up to 2249 miles, refuels in only 3 minutes and comes with a cargo volume of up to 6.1m3.

    The new fuel cell electric vehicle is based on the Vivaro-e and enables the integration of the entire fuel cell system with the existing traction motor under the bonnet. Also, the battery of the Vivaro-e BEV is replaced with an advanced three 700-bar hydrogen tanks.

    Because of the smart design approach, the electric version is turned into a fuel cell electric LCV without sacrificing space, features or functionality of the body of the Vivaro-e.

    The Vivaro-e HYRDOGEN with its 45kW fuel cell is capable of generating just enough power for some motorway driving, while the 10.5kWh lithium-ion battery provides dynamic peak power when required. And since the battery covers the power needs in these kinds of situations, the fuel cell can run at optimum operating conditions. The battery can also enable regenerative braking, while the plug-in capability features the capability to recharge the battery externally if necessary.

    2021 Vauxhall-e HYDROGEN

    SEE ALSO: BMW team takes the new 2 Series Coupe for a test ride

    Paul Willcox, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: Vauxhall is already leading the way with an all-electric van range, and now we are set to add hydrogen to the line-up as an efficient energy system of the future. Vauxhall-Opel has more than 20 years of experience in developing hydrogen fuel technology which offers zero emissions-in-use, a long driving range and ultra-fast refuelling.  We are already in contact with UK fleet operators that want to go the extra mile on sustainability and we look forward to bringing Vivaro-e HYDROGEN to the UK soon.

    2021 Vauxhall-e HYDROGEN

    Source: Vauxhall

     

  • BMW team takes the new 2 Series Coupe for a test ride

    2021 BMW 2-SeriesAt the end of its development process, the latest edition of the BMW 2 Series completes its fine-tuning test and goes for a test ride. Here’s what we should expect on the release day.

    The final tests include revision of the suspension system under racetrack conditions and some additional adjustments. What is unique about this model, is that it will come with a 50:50 balanced axle load distribution, new torsionally stiff body, and chassis technology with agile and dynamic performance.

    Drivetrain characteristics

    The new BMW 2 Series Coupe’s main focus is driving dynamics and agility. The vehicle comes with a 6-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology for more responsiveness and aggressiveness when accelerating.

    Furthermore, the BMW M model puts its power to the road by using the xDrive AWD system and the classic rear-wheel output distribution.

    2021 BMW 2-Series

    Regardless of the engine type, all variants of the new BMW 2 Series come with a torsion-resistant body design with static torsional stiffness of 12 percent better, compared to predecessor models. Also, all variants are geared with stroke-dependant dampers as a standard feature, especially fine-tuned for an optimized balance between sportiness and ride comfort.

    SEE ALSO: Silverstone Auctions reveal a lineup of limited and low-mileage vehicles

    The new BMW 2 Series Coupe lineup will also offer effortlessly controllable handling and responsive braking capabilities. In addition to the balanced axle load distribution between the front and rear wheels, the model-exclusive design of the steering system also contributes to enhancing the stiffness and stability of the front axles.

    Exterior design

    2021 BMW 2-Series

    Not fully uncovered yet, the design of the new BMW 2 Series is expected to reflect the brand’s new approach towards the future and will present clear lines and elegant curves. In addition to the exclusive front spoiler lip, front splitter and air curtains, a tank, and a rear axle cover are also present.

    Stick with us for further information!

    Source: BMW 

     

     

  • Silverstone Auctions reveal a lineup of limited and low-mileage vehicles

    1999 Subaru 22B STi Type UKSilverstone Auctions closed their catalogue with a set of low mileage and low ownership vehicles.

    1999 Subaru 22B-STi Type UK

    First, there’s the 1999 Subaru 22B-STi Type UK. The vehicle is rare and special. 1 of only 16 units, the vehicle is well-regarded among the Subaru fanbase, and occasionally appears in many magazines. This particular unit has had only 2 previous owners during the last 18 years and has only overed 49,000 miles.

    1961 Morris Mini Cooper 997

    1961 Morris Mini Cooper (997)

    Another vehicle in the lineup is the 1961 Morris Mini Cooper 997. It has been confirmed as the 3rd oldest survivor. The model is fully restored and will celebrate its 60th birthday in September. The vehicle comes with a very limited mileage since restoration and has been featured in an article in ‘Miniworld’ 10 years ago.

    1985 Porsche 911 Turbo

    1985 Porsche 911 (930) Turbo

    The next one in the lineup is a 1985 Porsche 911 Turbo. It has had only 2 owners and has covered less than 22,000 miles from new. The vehicle is offered from 35 years of private ownership, properly stored and maintained.

    1991 Ford Sierra RS Cosworth 4×4

    1991 Ford Sierra RS Cosworth 4x4

    Also confirmed is the 1991 Ford Sierra RS Cosworth 4×4. This one is remarkable, because of its low mileage coverage of 13,865 miles. It is also one of the finest examples with the eye-catching Magenta and Raven interior with black leather Recaro seats.

    SEE ALSO: Peterson Automotive Museum launches Porsche-themed events

    Gary Dunne Sales Controller for Silverstone Auctions added: We are so excited to safely be welcoming back bidders into our auction hall for the first time in over a year for our sale next weekend! There are some excellent examples confirmed which are previewed here with many more on our website.