Automobiles Review

Author: Georgi Boychev

  • RAM reveals 1500 Laramie Southwest Edition vehicles!

    Ram today unveiled the new 2020 Ram 1500 Laramie Southwest Edition, a new luxury trim, which focuses on the largest truck-buying region in the world. Also, the team has prepared numerous 1500 Laramie Southwest Edition packages and upgrades that further enhance the luxurious feature of the new family member.

    Exterior

    Outside, the Laramie Southwest Edition showcase body-colored bumpers, mirrors, and grille surrounds that altogether give it that sophisticated and appealing appearance. Additionally, there are some chrome highlights as the tow hooks, grille inserts, bodyside moldings, and polished 20-inch wheels. The power side steps are also included and fold out of the way when the truck is parked or underway.

    Interior

    2020-Ram-1500-Laramie-Southwest-Edition-910

    Inside, Ram 1500 Laramie Southwest Edition is geared with tons of features, advanced technology, and some unique goodies. Among these are the Uconnect 4C infotainment with a large 12-inch touchscreen, dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and electronic trailer brake control. Also, the engineers and designers have included Blind-spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path detection, ParkSense Front and Rear Park-Assist with Stop, remote tailgate-release and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Buyers also can specify their vehicles with bench or bucket seats. Sweet!

    Drivetrain system

    2020 Ram 1500 Laramie Southwest Edition

    2020 Ram 1500 Laramie Southwest Edition is available in all powertrain options – each vehicle can be specified with either Quad or Crew Cab body configurations and 5 ft-7in (Crew only) or 6ft-4-in. bed lengths.

    New 2020 Ram 1500 Laramie Southwest Edition models will go on sale in the second quarter of 2020.

    Source: RAM 

  • Hyundai reveals first images of the new 2020 Elantra model!

    2020-Hyundai-Elantra-Sketches-910Hyundai Motor team is set to unveil the all-new 2021 Elantra at a special event in Hollywood. This upcoming seventh-generation Elantra reveals an edgy and aggressive look, based on parametric shapes and textures, which reflects the brand’s design philosophy. The world premiere will take place today at the Los Studios in West Hollywood, California.

    As it comes to the vehicle itself, the 2021 Elantra accentuates its futuristic and exotic character through the concept of Parametric Dynamics. Cutting edge engineering solutions and design innovations are definitely the keywords that describe the latest family member. Essentially, advanced digital technology has brought the parametric Dynamics design language to life. Having three lines meet at a certain point is the main element of the concept. This formation is a bold challenge, which has been avoided in conventional car design ideology, which makes the new Elantra unique on a different level.

    SEE ALSO: SKODA reveals first details of the new Octavia lineup

    Furthermore, the “Immersive Cocoon” interior creates a driver-focused ambiance and overall satisfactory user experience. Low and wide structures go from the doors and connect all the way to the center console, while the large interface consists of two harmoniously integrated displays that further contribute to that sporty feel.

    2020 Hyundai Elantra Sketches

    Stick with us for further details!

    Source: Hyundai 

  • SKODA reveals first details of the new Octavia lineup

    2020 SKODA OctaviaWith more interior space, even more advanced safety features and revised exterior design, new SKODA Octavia is wider and longer than its predecessors and comes with larger boot and never-before-seen aesthetic components. Now in its fourth generation since the launch in 1996, the lineup remains SKODA’s best-selling model with more than seven million vehicles produced.

    Exterior design

    New Octavia features a front apron and razor-sharp headlights design with high beam technology. The newly designed and shallow roof rails emphasize the elongated silhouette of the estate version, while the hatch is closer to a coupe design. Of course, there are sexy alloy wheels that measure up to 19 inches and contribute to that powerful and aggressive overall appearance. The vehicle can also be specified with Crystal Black, Lava Blue and Titan Blue body finishes. There’s also a Dynamic Package optionally available and chrome window frames and Elox roof rails.

    Interior design

    2020 SKODA Octavia

    Octavia offers a new two-spoke steering wheel and, if ordered as a multifunctional variant, comes with new control buttons and knurled scroll wheels. The dashboard has been greatly revised and now is arranged in different levels featuring a large, free-standing central display. The central console is beautiful, uncluttered and adorned with chrome details – as are the new door trims and handles. As expected, the cabin features new and soft-touch materials and LED ambient lightning. Sweet!

    SEE ALSO: Karma Automotive expands its network of dealers!

    Drivetrain system

    This is the first Octavia generation to feature a plug-in hybrid system. There’s a 1.4 TSI petrol unit and an electric motor deliver a total of 204hp. With a capacity of 37Ah providing 13kWh of energy, the high-voltage lithium-ion battery allows for the electric range of up to 60km in the WLTP cycle. Some of the petrol engines have been further optimized and now come equipped with innovative mild hybrid technology, while the diesel options offer up to 80 per cent less nitrogen oxide.

    2020 SKODA Octavia

    Stick with us for further information!

    2020 SKODA Octavia
    2020 SKODA Octavia
    2020 SKODA Octavia
    2020 SKODA Octavia
    2020 SKODA Octavia
    2020 SKODA Octavia
    2020 SKODA Octavia
    2020 SKODA Octavia
    2020 SKODA Octavia
    2020 SKODA Octavia
    2020 SKODA Octavia
    2020 SKODA Octavia

    Source: SKODA 

  • 2020 PEUGEOT 208 and 2008 SUV take home numerous acclaimed awards!

    2020 PEUGEOT 208All-new PEUGEOT 208 was awarded “Best Small Car” and its 2008 SUV sibling was recognized as “Best Compact SUV” at the 32nd Fleet News Awards, held at the Grosvenor House Hotel. Additionally, PEUGEOT 508 was highly commented in the “Best Upper Medium” category, such as the 3008 SUV in the “Best Mid-Size SUV” category.

    New PEUGEOT 208 and the 2008 SUV had also a successful night at the Fleet News Awards 2020, taking home two of event’s top awards – supermini was named “Best Small Car” and the 2008 SUV won “Best Compact SUV” of the year.

    As it comes to the vehicles themselves, the 208 was launched earlier this year in January and is PEUGEOT’s first model to be released under the new philosophy concept of “choose your PEUGEOT, choose your powertrain”. It is also available as a fully electric machine or with a petrol or a diesel unit.

    On the other hand, 2008 SUV was launched in February 2020 and was praised by Fleet news for its contemporary and distinctive styling and luxurious interior design.

    SEE ALSO: 2020 Mazda CX-30 earns TOP SAFETY PICK award from IIHS!

    Both models feature the latest generation of 3D PEUGEOT i-Cockpit with a compact multifunctional steering wheel, configurable 3D heads-up display and a large HD color touchscreen, either 7- or 10-inches. Additional goodies for both machines include PEUGEOT Connect SOSO and Assistance, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go function, Lane Positioning Assist and Mirror Screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone incorporation.

    2020 PEUGEOT 2008 SUV

    Source: PEUGEOT 

  • 2020 Mazda CX-30 earns TOP SAFETY PICK award from IIHS!

    2020 Mazda CX-30The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) today announced that the 2020 Mazda CX-30 has earned its 2020 TOP SAFETY PICK award when geared with specific lights set.

    In order to qualify for the prominent recognition, a vehicle should earn good rating score in all six IIHS crashworthiness evaluations – these include the driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side roof strength and head restraint tests. Additionally, it is needed an advanced or superior rating for both vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention, as well as an acceptable or good headlight rating.

    Mazda’s i-Activesence is a term that describes the entire plethora of advanced safety features – as expected, this suite played a key role in impressing the demanding jury members. I-Activesense includes active safety features which help to avert collisions or reduce their severity in different crash scenarios. The suite includes Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection, Smart Brake Support with Collision Waring, Smart Brake Support, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go Function, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning System with Lane-Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert, High Beam Control, Adaptive Front-Lighting System, and Traffic Sign Recognition.

    SEE ALSO: Karma Automotive expands its network of dealers!

    New CX-30 joins the Mazda CX-9, and its more advanced Mazda3, Mazda6, CX-3 and CX-5 siblings that have managed to win the TOP SAFETY PLUS award.

    Source: Mazda 

  • Karma Automotive expands its network of dealers!

    2020 Karma Revero GTKarma Automotive, the Southern California-based creator of luxury electric vehicles and high-tech incubator has announced the additions in its newest North American retail partner in Canada.

    Karma Calgary, operated by International Motor Cars, will expand brand’s retail network, with more dealers being opened all across the globe in 2020. The retailer will offer Karma’s new luxury electric Revero GT, which has won Green Car Journal’s 2020 Luxury Green Car of the Year, and also numerous more features and technologies that are incorporated in the vehicle.

    2020 Karma Revero GT is available through all of brand’s retailer across North America and offers contemporary and appealing design and excellent performance rates. The elegant interior is dominated by advanced technology and high-quality components. In terms of drivetrain system, the dual electric motors power vehicle’s on-board generator and offer the best of the two worlds – exceptional performance and handling without sacrificing comfort and pleasure of driving.

    SEE ALSO: Audi presents new RS Q8 SUV – brand’s aggressive and yet convenient SUV!

    All Revero vehicles are assembled mainly by hand at Karma’s Innovation and Customization Center, brand’s manufacturing facility in Moreno Valley, Calif. This dedication to craftsmanship expands Karma’s idea that the ownership should be personal and special, connecting owners to the pioneering technology and inspiration behind their machines.

    Stick with us for further information!

    Source: Karma Automotive 

  • Audi presents new RS Q8 SUV – brand’s aggressive and yet convenient SUV!

    2020 Audi RS Q8New Audi RS Q8 blends the genes of a high-performance RS model and the practicality of an SUV and the appealing design of Audi Coupe. Coming with a bi-turbo V8 that delivers excellent performance rates and driving dynamics, new RS Q8 will set a new standard as a luxurious spearhead of the RS model line.

    Drivetrain features

    The new family member is geared with a 4.0-liter V8 that delivers a total of 591hp and 590lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged power unit is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in 3.7 seconds. Top speed is measured at 155mph and can be boosted to up to 190mph when the vehicle is equipped with the RS ceramic brakes.

    Additionally, the power of the V8 flows to the Quattro AWD system via the standard eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox, which offers high-precision and dynamic handling via active torque distribution to both axles. The mechanical system transfers torque to the front and rear axles at the standard ratio of 40:60, and when needed, can transfer more power to the axle with better traction.

    Additionally, new RS Q8 features standard adaptive air suspension with controlled damping, which allows the large SUV to be equally capable on and off the paved roads. The RS-specific damper tuning offers a choice between long-distance comfort and high performance. Standard AWD steering also allows for greater agility at low speeds and improved stability at high ones.

    Exterior design

    With its octagonal Singleframe grille and the RS-specific honeycomb, the new family member has an even more muscular and aggressive presence. This is due to the front air inlets in glossy black and the alu-optic front spoiler that perfectly highlights the athletic character of the SUV. The dynamic roofline ends in gently inclined D-pillars, which are supported by a wide and pronounced wheel arches, paying homage to the vehicle’s quattro DNA.

    SEE ALSO: 2020 Genesis G90 earns the prestigious TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award!

    Additional features include HD Matric-design LED headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights, standard 22-inch 10-spoke star design wheels with summer tires. There are also 23-inch 5-Y-spoke rotor design wheels in matte titanium. The available painted steel brake calipers in red are also present and can be changed with ceramic brakes in red or gray. Sweet!

    Interior design

    2020 Audi RS Q8

    The interior is characterized by clean lines and refined ambiance. The slim instrument panel and strong horizontal lines convey a feeling of spaciousness, while the large 12.3-inch display offers exhaustive information about the vehicle’s overall condition.

    Additional features include ventilated RS sport Valcona leather seats with “RS” honeycomb stitching, perforated and heated steering wheel with shift paddles on either side and an available luxury package that adds Alcantara headliner, fine Nappa heather accents on the central console, armrests and instrument panel.

    Sweet!

    2020 Audi RS Q8
    2020 Audi RS Q8
    2020 Audi RS Q8
    2020 Audi RS Q8

    Source: Audi 

     

  • Top Tools to Help Maintain Your Car

    2020-Car-Maintenance-910Maintaining a motor comes down to how much you put in. Whether you want your car to last for years to come or you’re trying to navigate the growing number of potholes, making sure you know how to properly look after your vehicle is a sure-fire way to make sure it flies through the next MOT and saves you having to start looking for a new model.

    If you’re keen to put your skills to use and do some DIY maintenance on your car, having a good idea of the top tools to have in your stash is a great starting point. To help you get your kit together, here’s a look at the must-have tools to get the job done.

    Socket set

    You’ll use a socket set for almost every job you work on. When choosing a set, make sure that the selection of drivers and sockets include a range of sizes. These should be displayed in both metric and standard measurements so that you can match the job to the socket. You might find that extensions and thin-walled sockets are also needed, so select a set that includes these to make tackling each job easy.

    Screwdrivers

    A set of screwdrivers is a real investment for an amateur mechanic. From helping to loosen wires and screws when working on fiddly electronic components to using flat head variations to pry apart sections, they can be very useful. Offset screwdrivers in particular are ideal for awkward screws that are too shallow as they have the ability to manoeuvre with precision.

    Pliers

    Should you want to combat an electrical project on your car, pliers are essential. Fitting a stereo and wiring up the headlights require pliers in a selection of sizes – as well as wire cutters and strippers – to help fit the electrics safely and accurately.

    Power tools

    While there are plenty of hand tools available, power tools, such as the broad range available from SGS Engineering, can help get the job done quickly and efficiently. High torque pneumatic wrenches, for example, make removing the nuts from car tyres a smooth job, while the right drill can make all the difference.

    Floor jack

    Most of the work you’ll need to do to your car will require it to be up off the ground. A heavy-duty floor jack is an investment as it hoists your vehicle safely and allows you access to the underside of your motor.

    These are the top five tools to get you started, however you will build on this as you approach each item you need to fix on your car. Ensure that you have somewhere safe to store your collection by investing in a toolbox and keep them to hand for the next job on the list.

  • Volvo XC40 and XC90 take home a prestigious award! Details here!

    2020 Volvo XC40Volvo SUV lineup continues to impress both sceptics and experts with the 2020 XC90 midsize luxury SUV and 2020 XC40 compact SUV each earning Consumer Guide Automotive Best Buy Awards.

    The jury at Consumer Guide has selected the XC90 in the Premium Midsize Crossover/SUV category for the fifth year in a row, and the XC40 in the Premium Subcompact Crossover/SUV category – for the second consecutive year in a row.

    The sexy XC90 is one of Volvo’s flagships and offers state-of-the-art technology and massive power output – 400hp with an EPA rated 55MPGe.

    2020 Volvo XC40

    The modern XC40 includes a long list of standard safety, technology and comfort features, including a revised exterior design with smart storage features that reduce clutter and stress. Also, this is the first vehicle to be offered by subscription through Care by Volvo. Consumer Guide called the XC40 “Genuinely chic and upscale”.

    SEE ALSO: Audi presents new RS Q8 SUV – brand’s aggressive and yet convenient SUV!

    Consumer Guide editors have tested more than 150 new vehicles each year to select those with the highest rating in each category. What is interesting about the rating is that a vehicle cannot become a Best Buy solely on objective rankings, but it also must distinguish itself as being a good dollar value compared to other competitors.

    2020 Volvo XC40

    Source: Volvo 

  • 2020 Genesis G90 earns the prestigious TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award!

    2020 Genesis G90 Genesis announced its new flagship sedan, the 2020 G90, has earned a TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award from the IIHS. G90 also earned a superior rating for vehicle-to-vehicle interactions in 12 and 25mph track tests. Brand’s other 2020 model year vehicles, the entry-luxury G70, and the affordable luxury G80 both received the same accolade in mid-February. In fact, Genesis is the only brand in the industry with an entire lineup of vehicles that have been awarded the prestigious TOP SAFETY PLUS award.

    In order to receive the recognition, a 2020 vehicle must have a “GOOD” rating in the driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint tests and also receive an “ADVANCED” or “SUPERIOR” rating for available front crash prevention vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluations and last, but not least, every vehicle must achieve “ACCEPTABLE” or “GOOD” headlight rating.

    New G90 also earned an advanced rating for pedestrian front crash prevention. In each of the vehicle-to-pedestrian test scenarios, G90 avoided collisions in the lower-speed tests and achieved significant speed reductions in the higher-speed tests.

    SEE ALSO: Genesis reveals first images of new 2021 G80

    Furthermore, all Genesis models come with a standard suite of advanced driver-assistance and safety technologies as Forward Collision Avoidance-Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning and more. And as importantly, each vehicle in the Genesis lineup offers sure-footed handling due to the rigid chassis construction. Sweet!

    Source: Genesis

  • Honda reveals first details for new 2021 Odyssey lineup!

    2021 Honda OdysseyHonda’s 2020 New York International Auto Show exhibit will feature the world debut of the new 2021 Odyssey, the heir to the best-selling minivan in America for the last ten years. The new family member benefits from numerous styling upgrades, new technologies, and safety features. In fact, 2021 Odyssey comes with an industry-first Rear-Seat Reminder system integrated with the car’s CabinWatch rear-seat camera system. Sweet!

    Major upgrades to the vehicle include more powerful and efficient LED headlights, a revised blackout grille topped by a chrome strip, and a revised lower front fascia and fog light housings. Also, buyers will benefit from new glossy-black trim under the rear window, accented by a chrome strip. And last, but not least, Odyssey Elite trim level comes with newly designed 19-inch alloys and auto-dimming side mirrors.

    For the interior, engineers and designers have managed to update climate controls and second-row seatbacks that fold flat for easier seat removal. EX and higher trims get new tri-color floor mats and illuminated USB poets, while EX-L and higher levels benefit from revised seats with contrast stitching, power lumbar support for the front passenger seat and second-row seatback pockets.

    All 2021 Honda Odyssey vehicles will come with Honda Sensing suite as part of the standard feature – the pack includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, And pedestrian Emergency Braking, all along with the standard technologies for the suite.

    SEE ALSO: Bentley reveals new Continental GT Equestrian Edition – Check it out!

    Powered by a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 engine that produces a total of 280hp, Odyssey comes with brand’s new 10-speed automatic gearbox, along with push-button start. Vehicle’s powerful and refined V6 engine utilizes Variable Cylinder Management, with the capability to switch between three- and six-cylinder operation.

    2021 Honda Odyssey

    Exclusively produced at the Lincoln, Alabama plant, alongside Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline, 2021 Odyssey will be available for purchase this April.

    Stick with us for further information!

    Source: Honda 

  • 2020 CR-V Hybrid has earned the TOP SAFETY PICK award by IIHS!

    2020-Honda-CR-V-Hybrid-9102020 Honda CR-V Hybrid has earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) 2020 Top Safety Pick rating. The vehicle joins the rest of the CR-V lineup that has won such an award when geared with specific headlights. Other Honda vehicles that have been recognized with the prize are Accord, Civic, and Insight.

    For 2020 model year, all CR-V models are offered with Honda Sensing as a standard feature on all trim levels. The suite features comprehensive safety and driver-assistive technologies as Collision Mitigation Braking System, Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist System and Adaptive Cruise Control.

    Furthermore, all Honda vehicles benefit from the brand’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure, designed to protect occupants in a wide variety of frontal collisions, along with advanced supplemental restraint systems.

    SEE ALSO: Honda reveals first details for new 2021 Odyssey lineup!

    As it comes to the award itself, in order to earn it, a vehicle must score “GOOD” crashworthiness ratings in all test modes, including the famous passenger-side small overlap test. A top-rated vehicle must also offer front crash prevention that earns “ADVANCED” or “SUPERIOR” rating in both vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian tests, as well as “GOOD” or “ACCEPTABLE” ratings for available headlights.

    Source: Honda