Automobiles Review

Author: Georgi Boychev

Hyundai shares more details for the new SCANIA lineup

Hyundai Motor Company revealed more details for the new multi-purpose vehicle lineup, STARIA, ahead of its online premiere scheduled later in 2021.

Designed for both families and businesses, STARIA lineup will provide enhanced mobility and tons of new features. The vehicle’s design, for example, is based on the “inside-out” concept and creates a perfect base for the cabin. The exterior presents a futuristic and minimalistic silhouette with fluid curves. The front-end is adorned with horizontal daytime running lights and a positioning lamp that together stretch across the width of the vehicle.

At the rear, the body showcases a simplistic design approach with eye-catching vertical tail lamps and a wide rear window.

As it comes to the interior, the vehicle reveals a cabin with a contemporary design and tons of features. The interior is inspired by the lounge of a ship and provides new architecture with lower beltlines and expansive panoramic windows. The cockpit is driver-focused and has this hi-tech look with the 10.25-inch front display screen.

SEE ALSO: Aston Martin celebrates returning to F1 with a special model

STARIA also offers a number of seating arrangements, from 2-seater to 11-seater, making it a flexible vehicle for both family and business uses.

More details will be revealed later this year.

Source: Hyundai

March 22, 2021
Aston Martin celebrates returning to F1 with a special model

New Vantage F1 Edition comes to celebrate the brand’s return to Formula 1 racing for the first time in over 60 years. The vehicle is also the first one to be created by Aston Martin’s new Chief Executive Officer, Tobias Moers.

The vehicle comes with unique chassis and aerodynamic improvements, along with a new and powerful power unit. The main challenge before the engineering team was to boost dramatically performance rates, but without sacrificing the on-road capabilities. The result is a beautiful vehicle that offers increased tactility and expanded outright capabilities.

Drivetrain system and performance

The heart of the beast is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that delivers a total of 535hp. Peak torque is 685Nm, and can sustain for longer to increase tractability and in gear urgency. This massive output is controlled by an 8-speed automatic with optimized torque cut during upshifts. This allows the entire system to reduce shift times and increase the precision of driving.

As it comes to the chassis, engineers have focused their attention mainly on the suspension and steering, with further changing structure in order to enhance the stiffness and steering response. The vehicle comes with reworked damper internals that contributes to better vertical body control – both in high-speed situations and over crests. To complement the changes to the dampers, the chassis also benefits from increased rear spring rate and lateral stiffness for better cornering and more stability.

SEE ALSO: McLaren team reveals a street-legal version of the beloved 720S GT3

Vantage F1 Edition’s performance upgrades are topped off with an exclusive aero kit, which brings improvements of any kind. First, the vehicle provides 200kg more downforce, compared to the Vantage, and also presents a new silhouette with tons of aerodynamic improvements. These include changes to the front splitter, front dive planes, and the rear wing.

Additional changes

With all the chassis and performance upgrades, the vehicle also features large 21-inch wheels and an exclusive new body finish, the Aston Martin Green scheme, which is specially designed to celebrate the return to the Formula One. Also, there’s an additional set of body colors, available in Satin or Gloss. Such is the Jet Black and Lunar White.

March 22, 2021
RR Turbo is now available through ATS Corsa dealers

Totaalplan Racing is the team that will represent ATS CORSA, Borgomanero car manufacturer race division, in the new Benelux area, while MAXPRPM Motorsport remains the US partner.

TotaalPlan Racing is a brand in Belgium and focuses on supporting WRC Championship teams. The experts provide knowledge and services in engineering, collision and repair, and all kinds of technical evaluations.

At the moment, TotaalPlan has several divisions: Racing, which runs two Lambo Super Trofeo, MotorSport with Lamborghini racing teams, ATS Corsa and ATS European Championship, and Racing Event section, created for events like the track days and road trips for supercars. There’s also a Karting division.

ATS and Totaalplan Racing collaboration marks an important point in the development of a business network and emphasizes the Italian brand’s intentions to step on the European market. The Belgian company, on the other hand, will distribute and complete the customer services for the RR Turbo vehicles, both in the Clubsport and Serie Carbonio championship for 2022.

SEE ALSO: Aston Martin celebrates returning to F1 with a special model

ATS team’s main focus is performance and safety. The team has recently introduced a new front Crash Box, which was tested through several FEM (Finite Element Method) analysis and simulation. ATS will soon present the Carbon Series on track and will continue to expand its network of customers and partners with new dealers in Europe and beyond.

March 22, 2021
IIHS gives Genesis GV80 TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) announced that the first-ever 2021 Genesis GV08 SUV has been awarded the TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS recognition, the institute’s highest possible award. By achieving this recognition, the GV80 joins the 2021 G70 sport sedan and 2021 G90 flagship sedan, G70, G80, and G90 that all received TOP SAFETY PICK+ two years in a row in 2019 and 2020.

All Genesis models are geared with numerous features and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance and safety technologies. Such include Forward Collision Avoidance-Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and more.

Furthermore, GV80 is geared with 10 airbags, including one of the only Center-Side airbags on the market, Junction Crossing and tuning, and the world’s first Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, which helps with the reduction of the chance of potential impact.

SEE ALSO: Acura reveals first details for the new 2021 Type S

The all-new platform, which focuses on enhanced safety, includes passenger compartment protection and reinforcement areas. It also incorporates advanced high-strength steel for more rigidity.

All these technological advancements are complemented by a beautiful exterior design with aggressive expression and elegant lines.

Source: Genesis

March 19, 2021
Acura reveals first details for the new 2021 Type S

Acura announced the on-sale timing for the new 2021 TLX Type S, which returns the Type S performance to the showrooms for the first time in more than 10 years. Inspired by the award-winning second-generation Acura TLX, the new Type S comes with an exclusive V6 power unit, a sport-tuned chassis with double-wishbone front suspension, and a Brembo brake system.

The heart of the drivetrain system is a revised 3.0-liter Type S Turbo V6 and produces a total of 355hp and 354lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful engine ever featured in a Type S. The double-wishbone suspension comes with selectable driving modes and is specially engineered to provide some additional engine power. Also, this is the first Type S to come with Acura’s Super Handling AWD system with true torque vectoring.

In terms of exterior, the new 2021 TLX Type S can be specified in one of six available colors. The vehicle also features exclusive design components like an open-surface diamond pentagon grille, large quad exhaust outlets, and two-wheel options, including the NSX lightweight wheels wrapped in 255-series Pirelli P-Zero.

SEE ALSO: McLaren team reveals a street-legal version of the beloved 720S GT3

Inside, Type S features Ultrasuede trimmed 16-way power seats and exclusive embossing. Also, customers can benefit from the optional TLX Advance Package, which includes the award-winning ELS STUDIO 3D 17-inch speaker premium audio system. More details about the interior will be available soon.

Stick with us for more details!

Source: Acura

March 19, 2021
McLaren team reveals a street-legal version of the beloved 720S GT3

McLaren Customer Racing has confirmed that the unrestricted version of the 720S GT3 racecar, the 720S GT3X is available to order through the McLaren Retailer Network. Especially designed by the motorsport team of McLaren Automotive, the new vehicle comes with tons of power, an advanced drivetrain system and numerous cool features. Also, it is street-legal. Cool!

The heart of the beast is a hand-built 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged power unit, optimized for a combination of both track and street capabilities. It features a unique blueprint cylinder head, strengthened pistons. Diamond-Like Carbon coating and lightweight performance exhaust system. The engine is paired to a six-speed sequential sporty gearbox and altogether they deliver a total of 720hp.

The entire project has been focused on innovative aerodynamics and efficient design with numerous fine-tuning approaches. The vehicle is performance-focused and comes with a special body shape based on the “Computational Fluid Dynamics” and F1 wind tunnel technology. The aerodynamically sculpted shape is hand-finished in metallic MSO Carbon Black Paint.

SEE ALSO: BMW Group announces new sustainability approaches with the new xDrive 50

The cabin features numerous carbon-fiber components and is exclusively designed to aid the driver in any high-performance journey. There’s a carbon-fiber and Kevlar FIA-approved set of race seats, and pedal box and steering wheel adjustment options for optimal comfort.

Source: McLaren

March 18, 2021
BMW Group announces new sustainability approaches with the new xDrive 50

BMW announces the second generation of the all-electric iX lineup. This model line showcases brand’s new approaches towards design, connectivity, electrification technologies, and all different kinds of services. However, the main goal of the BMW team remains sustainability. Let’s find out more!

BMW and its sustainability ambitions

The brand focuses on the responsible use of resources and minimization of the overall carbon emissions of all stages of any vehicle’s lifecycle. To achieve this, advancements have been made across all areas of vehicle-building and maintenance.

This means that BMW would use more raw materials and the new iX xDrive50 will feature numerous recycled components as well as such facets that require minimum CO2 emissions.

Technologies

The vehicles in the lineup will be run by two high-efficiency motors, driving four wheels and delivering about 500hp. These high levels of drive system efficiency and higher density high-voltage batteries are expected to improve the driving dynamics and electric power consumption. The engine system and battery technology are based on an intelligent lightweight construction and aerodynamic body shape that altogether contribute to a more sustainable future and impressive practicality.

Furthermore, the fifth generation of BMW eDrive is focused on a design approach that enables a power density around 30 percent greater than earlier electric drive systems. This highly integrated electric drive system plays a key role when it comes to the efficiency of the xDrive50.

New battery approach

The battery technology included in the new BMW eDrive incorporates a new and advanced kind of battery cell. The overall energy output has been increased by about 20 percent over previous generations and delivers enhanced performance rates. Also, the unit is cased in an aluminum compartment low on the vehicle floor as an integral part of the body.

SEE ALSO: PEUGEOT reveals the striking new 308 model

Additionally, there’s a new liquid cooling system for the high-voltage battery which provides the optimal temperature control in highly dynamic driving situations.

New charging capabilities

What is also new is the new charging technology. The new iX xDrive50 comes with a Combined Charging Unit which offers high levels of flexibility when it comes to using charging stations of any type. This system brings together the functions of the voltage transformer, charging electronics, and power distribution, as well as the management system for the drive.

Stick with us for more details!

March 18, 2021
PEUGEOT reveals the striking new 308 model

New PEUGEOT 308 blends an attractive contemporary design, cozy and functional interior, and some neat class-leading technologies. The vehicle also comes with an agile and efficient hybrid set of engines and a choice between petrol and diesel variants.

Exterior design

New PEUGEOT 308 features a sleek and dynamic look with some sharp lines and an overall bold visual concept. At the front, the vehicle showcases the brand’s new logo and revised LED headlights design. This distinctive design contributes to a more menacing and instantly recognizable face.

The sides, on the other hand are shaped with the concept of minimalism in mind. They feature straight lines and a clean surface which completely resembles the general design idea of the new 308. This visual impact is finished by the large and exclusive wheels that further enhance the sporty spirit of the vehicle.

The rear-end strikes with an incredible and distinctive design with numerous lines and facets. The new backlights design completely fits the dramatic curves and the new set of exhaust pipes.

In terms of aerodynamics, all bodywork has been specifically designed to improve airflow and even the wheel design helps for the drag coefficient figure of Cd 0.28.

Buyers will be able to specify their 308 in seven colors: Olivine Green, Bianca White, Cumulus Grey, Nera Black, Pearlescent White, Vertigo Blue, and Elixir Red.

Interior design

New PEUGEOT 308 is based on the brand’s new and adaptable EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform) structure, which allows for a more spacious and safer interior. It also allows the option of electrified engines.

The quality of the materials enhances the overall feel of comfort and luxury with mottled fabric, technical mesh, Alcantara, embossed leather, and colored Nappa leather. Alongside these, occupants will also benefit from new conditioning system with AQS technology (Air Quality System) which monitors the quality of the air and automatically engages recycling when needed.

Furthermore, the interior offers tons of leg and knee room which allow even the tallest of drivers and passengers to stretch out. This capability is further enhanced with the new 10-way electric adjustable seats and two memory settings.

As with any other advanced vehicle, the new PEUGEOT also comes with the i-Cockpit interior concept. It incorporates numerous technologies within the cabin and allows for their quick and beneficial usage. For example, the conveniently located 10-inch digital instrument cluster grants drivers access to some vital information without having to take their eyes off the road.

A neat addition is also the small steering wheel with sensors that detect driver’s grip levels when using driving aids. With ergonomics in mind, it also includes fingertip controls for the infotainment system.

Upper trim levels also come with PEUGEOT 308 fully configurable virtual i-toggles. These are positioned alongside the central screen and deliver elegant design and enhanced ease of use. Each unit offers a personal shortcut key to many functions, including eye conditioning, telephone contacts, and App launch.

Starting at the Allure level, the new PEUGEOT 308 features fully configurable virtual i-toggles. Positioned alongside the central screen, they deliver both a sleeker design and enhanced ease-of-use. Each touch sensitive i-toggle offers a personalized shortcut key to numerous functions, including the air conditioning settings, a telephone contact, a radio station or an application launch.

Drivetrain system

In order to make the new 208 more agile, PEUGEOT engineers have included two plug-in hybrid options:

HYBRID 225 e-EAT8 – it is a combination of a 180hp PureTech power unit and an 81kW electric motor mated to the e-EAT automatic gearbox. This setup emits as little as 26g/km of CO2 and about 36 miles of coverage with the electric engine.

The second option is named 180 e-EAT8, a blend of a 150hp PureTech power unit and an 81kW electric motor, mated to an e-EAT8 gearbox. This setup has an emissions estimation of 25g/km of CO2 and can cover about 37 miles with only the electric engine allowed.

SEE ALSO: BMW Team reveals beautiful new livery

Both versions are powered by a 12.4kWh lithium-ion battery and can be specified with either a standard 3.7kW charger or a 7.4kW fast charger.

As it comes to the petrol units, the new 308 can be geared with a 1.2-liter PureTech 130 S&S with an eight-speed automatic. The diesel option includes a 1.5-liter BlueHDi 130 S&S with an EAT8 eight-speed automatic.

New PEUGEOT 308 will be produced in France at the Mulhouse plant and will be available to order later this year. Stick with us for further information!

March 18, 2021
SKODA presents new Kushaq: the first production car of the INDIA 2.0 project

New SKODA Kushaq is the first production car from the INDIA 2.0 project. Based on the MQB-A0-IN, a variant of the modular MQB platform, the vehicle will be available with new features, a plethora of safety features, and a brand-new SUV design.

Exterior design

The vehicle proudly presents a muscular and yet elegant body stance that completely resembles the new Indian approach. New Kushaq comes with high ground clearance, large wheels, and elegant curves, and neat lines. The vehicle also features LED lights, metallic Honey Orange, and Tornado Red paintwork, exclusive for the Indian market and exclusive features.

SEE ALSO: BMW Group announces new sustainability approaches with the new xDrive 50

The design features a prominent front bonnet, wide grille, and a straight roofline. There’s also a tornado line at the height of the door handles and powerful wheel arches with black plastic trim. At the rear, the vehicle is characterized by an elongated roof spoiler and a robust rear diffuser.

Interior design

New SKODA Kushaq comes with an elegant and cozy interior with tons of features and utilities. The entire interior is dominated by a central and free-standing infotainment touchscreen, which perfectly accompanies the two-spoke multifunctional steering wheel. Some of the upper trim levels also come with leather seats and shift paddles.

Drivetrain system

In terms of engine setup, the vehicle can be specified with either an efficient 1.0 or 1.5 TSI engine type. These provide a total of 115 or 110hp of total output and can be paired to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox. There’s also a special 7-speed DSG variant.

March 18, 2021
BMW Team reveals beautiful new livery

BMW’s trio 330i M Sport cars will sport a new livery for the 2021 British Touring Cars Championship. All of the three will bear the iconic “M” colour scheme and will compete for some additional silverware.

Inspired by the liveries of the ’70s, the vehicles will proudly showcase Bavarian Blue, Dark Blue and red and a sexy matt-black base, but with a contemporary twist.

Since their debut back in 2019, the BMW 3 Series has enjoyed some sweet victories and marked the start of an incredible season with a one-two finish in the Drivers’ Championship and a record-equalling fourth title for Turkington.

For 220, all three vehicles will also carry the BMW FIRST logo throughout the season in order to promote BMW’s aftercare services with access to some exclusive accessories and upgrades, as well as a wide range of benefits that enhance the ownership experience.

The cars will also promote My BMW, the brand’s App dedicated to offer a fully connected car experience. Its features range from remote locking and unlocking, vehicle locator, remote status, remote charging for electrified variants, and trip-planning services. Also, BMW M Performance Parts and BMW Original Motor Oil will be promoted.

SEE ALSO: OPUS reveals more details about its Mercedes-AMG tuning project

The livery will make its track debut as two days of pre-season testing at the Brands Hatch on Wednesday, 23^rd of March.

All the vehicles will attend the BTCC season official launch event at Silverstone on the 22^nd of April and the first race at the BMW UK’s local race track, Thruxton on May 8-9.

Source: BMW

March 17, 2021
Hyundai annoucnes Tucson Plug-In Hybrid and N Line models
Hyundai announces the addition of N Line and Plug-In Hybrid models to the 20222 Tucson lineup. All machines in the new series are shaped by the experts from Hyundai Design Center and all of them are based on the Sensuous Sportiness global design concept.

The Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain technology

Tucson’s plug-in hybrid and hybrid models deliver a balanced blend of agile performance and excellent economy rates. Speaking of performance, the Plug-In Hybrid version is capable of generating a total of 261hp via the 1.6-liter turbocharged and direct-injected hybrid engine. This unit is paired to a 13.8 kWh battery, which ensures an all-electric range of 32 miles.

Along with the engine, the lineup now comes with Continuously Variable Valve Duration which optimizes the valve opening duration for optimal power, efficiency and emissions with minimized losses of engine performance.

Tucson Plug-In Hybrid models will also offer the mechanical HTRAC AWD system that would meet the needs of all eco-focused buyers and the driving flexibility of several selectable driving modes, among is a new one – Snow mode. Also, the system is fine-tuned in order to provide the best possible traction and vehicle control over a wide variety of surfaces and road conditions.

Last, but not least, new Tucson vehicles come with Hyundai’s e-handling technology, which applies electric torque control that varies according to the dynamic inputs and road conditions. This setup allows for improved cornering performance and stability and enhanced pleasure of driving.

SEE ALSO: Ford reveals new F-150 Police Responder vehicle

Tucson plug-in hybrid and hybrid models feature Hyundai’s e-handling technology, which precisely applies electric motor torque control according to dynamic inputs and road conditions to improve cornering performance for a new level of fun-to-drive dynamics. As a Tucson hybrid model turns-in to a corner, the electric motor system applies precise incremental braking force to the front wheels, increasing their tire contact patch on the road surface for enhanced traction and steering response while initiating turn-in. Then, as the vehicle moves to exit the corner, the electric motor applies precise torque to the rear axle, increasing the rear tire contact patches for enhanced traction and control accelerating out of the corner.

The N Line additions and features

All N Line vehicles offer exclusive features and technologies both for the exterior and the interior of the vehicle. New Tucson N Line manages to incorporate all these features and presents a dynamic silhouette and cozy interior.

The exterior features include:
- N Line front and rear bumper fascia
- N Line grille
- Black headlamp bezels
- Fender N line badging
- Unique 19-inch black alloy wheel design
- Black side mirrors and window surrounds
- Dual-tipped exhaust
- N Line rear spoiler
In terms of interior, the vehicle in the lineup comes with:
- N Line logos: steering wheel, shifter and seats
- Leather and fabric seating surfaces
- Red accents on seats and door trim
- Black headliner
- Metal pedals and door sill plates
- Bose® premium audio system
March 17, 2021
Ford reveals new F-150 Police Responder vehicle

Ford reveals all-new 2021 F-150 Police Responder, the brand’s purpose-built and pursuit-focused pickup truck. The vehicle comes with increased capability, improved top speed of 120mph, automatic four-wheel driving mode and torque-on-demand transfer function.

Performance and drivetrain system

F-150 Police Responder comes with a 3.5-litre EcoBoost power unit that produces a total of 400hp and 500lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired to a 10-speed SelectShift automatic gearbox which is carefully calibrated to meet the needs of any law enforcement team.

Also, in order to withstand the high speed, it is capable to achieve, F-150 Police Responder comes with exclusive Goodyear LT265/70R18 LRC BSW Wrangler Enforcer all-terrain tires. These are specially designed to handle fast acceleration and high speed, as we as aggressive cornering on any road surface.

As it comes to the torque-on-demand transfer case, it includes 4-auto mode with an electrically actuated clutch that automatically adjusts torque to provide some better capability and seamless performance on any terrain. On high-friction surfaces such as dry pavement, the system runs in two-wheel drive for enhanced performance and better handling, whereas on slick or loose surfaces, the 4-auto system directs power to all wheels and allows driver and passengers to remain focused on the job at hand.

SEE ALSO: OPUS reveals more details about its Mercedes-AMG tuning project

For the departments that need some towing capabilities, the 150 Police Responder offers some segment-leading power. The standard towing capacity is 11,200 and the payload capacity is 2,020 pounds.

In terms of special equipment, the vehicle comes with Tow Technology Package adds a 360-degree camera, Trailer Reverse Guidance and integrated Trailer Brake Controller. Smart Trailer Tow Connector is standard on Class IV hitch-equipped vehicles and adds Trailer Coverage to the available Blind Spot Information System.

Equipment features

Purposely built for law enforcement teams, the new F-150 includes all kinds of tech systems that aid those who are part of a law enforcement team. Such is the SYNC 4 with cloud connectivity as a standard feature. It comes with an 8-inch touch screen in the central stack and an embedded modem with wireless updates. This setup allows agencies to receive all software updates. Also, there’s a new 4-inch productivity screen.

Just like all Ford vehicles, the F-150 Police Responder also comes with Ford Telematics. This is an intelligent fleet management tool that improves uptime, optimizes the running costs, enables predictive planning of unscheduled maintenance tasks and improves the driver behaviour over time.

Speaking of the driver, the vehicle also includes new driver-assist features like Reverse Sensing System, Pre-Collision Assist, Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking. There’s also a Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert. All of these are part of the standard equipment.

Interior design and features

The interior is characterized by police-grade heavy-duty cloth front seats, built-in intrusion plates in both front seatbacks for enhanced safety, and red-and-white task lighting. The LED police warning beacons are available in red and blue or amber and white colour combinations.

The F-150 Police Responder comes with more interior passenger volume and more room for all occupants. The fitting is now easier thanks to the front console-delete, universal top tray on the instrument panel and rear power lug. The 40-blank-40 front seat setup allows for the instalment of a department-specific central console. Also, there’s an optional Upgrade Package that provides Interior Work Surface suite with an adjustable flat surface for writing on a computer.

Source: Ford

March 17, 2021