Automobiles Review

Author: Georgi Boychev

  • Karma Automotive team makes an European debut at the Geneva Show

    2020-Karma-Revero-GT-910Karma Automotive, the Southern California-based manufacturer of luxury electric vehicles and high-tech mobility incubator, will use its first European auto show presence to showcase the new Revero and Revero GT models at the Geneva International Motor Show 2020.

    Brand’s focus is building a system with retailers and partners who embody the goals of offering leading automotive design, cutting-edge technology, personalized customization and, of course, outstanding customer experience. The automaker is currently supported by a network of over 29 retailers worldwide, with a growing European retail network in France, Sweden, Spain and Netherlands.

    As it comes to the vehicles themselves, the first one, Revero, is Karma’s original luxury electric car powered by a set of two electric motors. The vehicle features an efficient four-cylinder turbocharged power unit that powers an on-board electric generator and enhances the overall vehicle performance.

    On the other hand, Revero GT has already been named the 2020 Luxury Green Car of the Year by Green Car Journal. The vehicle has managed to impress the jury with its superior design, advanced technologies, and refined drivetrain system.

    SEE ALSO: Honda reveals details for new Type R Limited Edition lineup!

    Karma team also uses its next-generation technology, artful aesthetics, and customized components to develop a full-BEV platform. This direction is evidenced by Karma’s SC2 Concept car, unveiled at the AutoMobility LA, Los Angeles Auto Show’s annual media and industry event. Featuring cutting-edge technology and design, SC2 Concept is the brand’s bold statement that Karma will continue to impress both fans and skeptics.

    Stick with us for more information!

    Source: Karma 

  • Honda reveals details for new Type R Limited Edition lineup!

    2021 Honda Civic Type R Limited EditionOne of the most prominent street-legal track-focused vehicles, Honda’s legendary Civic Type R, will arrive in American dealers later this year. The new family member is lighter, faster and more powerful. 2021 Type R Limited Edition will feature all of 2020 model year Type R updates, all along with additional enhancement designed to make it the ultimate street-legal Type R machine to date. Also, there will be only 600 units in the lineup, all in Phoenix Yellow and with an individually numbered serial plate.

    Some of the modifications include:

    • Lightweight, forged aluminum wheels from acclaimed manufacturer BBS (18 lb. total unsprung weight reduction)
    • Further weight reduction of approximately 28 pounds accomplished via reduced sound-deadening materials and removal of features such as the rear wiper, tonneau cover, and rear heater ducts
    • Specially tuned dampers
    • Recalibrated steering for maximum control and feedback

    Furthermore, the new 2021 Civic Type R Limited Edition pays homage to past models with its exclusive finish, contrasting gloss black paint on the roof, outside mirror caps, and intake vent on the hood, along with a dark chrome Civic badge on the rear hatch.

    Like the standard vehicles in the lineup, Limited Edition comes with Honda Sensing, brand’s suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies as standard equipment, including Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation and Lane Keeping assist with Adaptive Cruise Control. Sweet!

    SEE ALSO: New Avalon and Camry models get an exclusive AWD system!

    Under the hood, 2021 Civic Type R draws power from an agile 2.0-liter direct-injection and turbocharged 4-cylinder power unit with VTEC valvetrain, delivering a total of 306hp and 295lb-ft of torque, with power distributed to the front wheels delivered through a close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox.

    As it comes to the standard vehicles, Type R features a set of selectable driving modes – Comfort, Sport, and +R – all three alter damping force, steering assist and throttle mapping. New for 2021 is the Active Sound Control that modifies the interior sound. Neat!

    2021 Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition

    Source: Honda 

  • Hyundai and Kia present a next-gen ICT Connected shift system

    2020-Hyundai-Kia-ICT-Connected-Shift-System-910Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Motors Company announced that they have developed the world’s first predictive Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Connected Shift System, enabling the vehicle to automatically shift to the optimal gear after identifying the road and traffic situation ahead. Hyundai and Kia teams plan to apply the technology into future models.

    The technologies used to automatically shift depend on driver’s preferences, such as Smart Drive Mode – available on most current Hyundai and Kia models – ICT Connected Shift System is the first ICT to automatically shift the gear according to road and traffic conditions.

    ICT Connected Shift System uses next-gen software in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) that collects and interprets real-time input form underlying technologies, including a dedicated 3D navigation system. It includes elevation, gradient, curvature and variety of road events as well as current traffic conditions. Radar detects the speed and distance between the vehicle and others and a forward-looking camera provides lane information.

    By utilizing all these inputs, TCU predicts the optimal shift for the current situation and an artificial intelligence algorithm automatically switches to the most suitable one. When Hyundai and Kia tested a vehicle with an ICT Connected Shift System on a heavily curved road, the frequency of shift was reduced to about 43 percent compared to vehicles without the system incorporated. This new technology also reduced the frequency of brake operation by approximately 11 percent, minimizing driving fatigue and brake wear.

    In addition, when rapid acceleration was required to enter a highway, the driving mode automatically switched to Sport Mode, making it easier to join the traffic flow. After merging with the other vehicles, the car automatically switches back to its original driving mode, enabling safe and comfortable ride.

    SEE ALSO: New Avalon and Camry models get an exclusive AWD system!

    Additionally, the engine brakes were automatically applied upon release of the accelerator pedal by determining speed bumps, downhill slopes and location of the speed limit change on the road. The changes in distance from the front car were detected by the front radar in order to adjust appropriate transmission gear automatically, which improved driving quality.

    Hyundai and Kia are planning to further develop the ICT Connected Shift System into an even more intelligent transmission technology, which can communicate with traffic signals based on the LTE or 5G technologies.

    Source: Hyundai; Kia

  • New Avalon and Camry models get an exclusive AWD system!

    2020 Toyota Camry AWD While others are abandoning the sedan segment, Toyota continues to double-down with new ideas and variants of its best-selling sedans. With the start of the new model year, Toyota team launches a new AWD Camry and Avalon vehicles – Let’s check ‘em out!

    Both vehicles benefit from a highly-efficient 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder power unit, mated to an 8-speed Direct-Shift automatic gearbox. Most Camry AWD grades generate a total of 202hp, while Camry XSE AWD, along with Avalon AWD have 205hp and come dual exhaust. What is notable about this AWD system is that it can distribute up to 50 percent of the torque to the rear wheels, in response to acceleration form a start or slippage at the front wheels.

    Also, when AWD is not needed, as on long highway stretches, the electromagnetic controlled coupling on the front of the rear drive axle can disengage the propeller shaft from the differential to prioritize fuel efficiency. This particular AWD system is designed to re-engage in an instant when needed.

    Adapting the AWD drivetarain to the Camry and Avalon required floor structure modifications, along with the use of electronic parking brake and saddle-style fuel tank with an optimized capacity for AWD models rather than the flat tank in the FWD models.

    2021 Toyota Avalon AWD

    As for Avalon AWD, it will be available for purchase next fall. Both XLE and Limited AWD grades will be available for buyers and will also feature extended list of standard features. Some of these include:

    • Toyota Safety Sense-P
    • All 2020 Camry and Avalon models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense-P (TSS-P) a suite of cutting-edge active safety systems that includes:
    • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD)
    • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
    • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA)
    • Automatic High Beams (AHB).

    SEE ALSO: Classic Recreations reveals a new Hitman – beware on the streets!

    Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) are available on Camry and standard on Avalon. Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS) with Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB) also are available on both models.

    2020 Toyota Camry XLE
    2020 Toyota Camry XLE
    2020 Toyota Camry XLE
    2020 Toyota Camry XLE
    2020 Toyota Camry XLE
    2020 Toyota Camry XLE
    2020 Toyota Camry XLE
    2021 Toyota Avalon AWD
    2021 Toyota Avalon AWD
    2021 Toyota Avalon AWD
    2021 Toyota Avalon AWD
    2021 Toyota Avalon AWD
    2021 Toyota Avalon AWD

    Source: Toyota 

     

  • Jeep Gladiator and RAM 1500 receive a prestigious award!

    2020 Jeep Gladiator Jeep Gladiator earns a spot on Autotrader’s 10 Best Car Interiors in its first year of availability. At the same time, Ram 1500 makes an appearance on the list for the third consecutive time in three years. As you might know, every year, Autotrader’s editors comprehensively review the latest models for the 10 Best Car Interiors Under $50,000USD list.

    For 2020 model year, Jeep Gladiator makes the list in its first year of availability while Ram 1500 also joins, making the list for the third time in three years. Gladiator and 1500 are, in fact, the only pickups to earn a spot on this coveted list.

    Editors rate interiors on comfort, quality of materials and logic of use in order to help consumers find the most suitable vehicle for their particular needs.

    SEE ALSO: Hyundai and Kia present a next-gen ICT Connected shift system

    The Gladiator has managed to impress editors with its high-end materials, soft-touch dashboard, rubberized controls, and aluminum accents. The leather seats, ample luggage space, and USB connectivity are also playing a key role in the recognition. On the other hand, RAM 15000, offers high-quality materials, ergonomic design, and all top-notch mod cons. Sweet!

    2020 RAM 1500

    Source: FCA US LLC

  • Classic Recreations reveals a new Hitman – beware on the streets!

    2020 Classic Recreations Ford Mustang Mach 1 Hitman The Oklahoma-based custom coachbuilder Classic Recreations has introduced its latest vehicle – a 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1. The customized vehicle is nicknamed “Hitman” and is the first within an exclusive lineup, marking the start of a collaborative project between Ford Motor Company and Classic Recreations team.

    “Hitman” features an authentic 1969 Mach 1 body, restored to factory-new condition, before receiving its inter-cooled, twin-turbocharged Ford 32-valve Coyote V8 that generates the whooping 1,000hp. This fine-tuned power unit is mated to a Tremec six-speed manual gearbox, 9-inch rear end with Posi-Traction, tubular subframe connectors and state-of-the-art power unit management system all work together in order to put that massive power output to the ground while the exhaust gasses escape via a set of custom stainless steel turbo manifolds and dual stainless steel MagnaFlow performance mufflers.

    Designed specially to complement the high horsepower output systems, “Hitman” comes with an exclusive suspension system that includes special coil overs at the front and Total Control rear Coilover system, along with Total Control front and rear sway bars. There’s also a power rack and pinion steering system that helps to keep the driver in control at all times.

    Furthermore, in order to ensure maximum traction, engineers have mounted neat 18-inch lightweight American Racing Wheels at all four corners and have wrapped them in Michelin Pilot Sport 2s sized 225/40R18 in the front and 315/30R18 in the rear. These are accompanied by six-piston Wilwood calipers with slotted and cross-drilled rotors on all four corners.

    SEE ALSO: 2020 Nissan LEAF and Frontier take home prestigious awards. Details here!

    A BeCool aluminum crossflow radiator is supported by two electric cooling fans that altogether help keep the engine cool while an “Old Air” air conditioning keeps the cabin comfortable. Additional utilities include a JVC head unit wired to a Kicker amp, speakers and a subwoofer.

    In terms of exterior, the vehicle was given a two-tone grey and black paint job by Classic Recreations. There’s also a factory-style Mach 1 front chin spoiler and rear decklid spoiler coupled with Mach 1 badges that altogether contribute to that appealing and bold design. Sweet!

    Source: Classic Recreations 

  • 2020 Nissan LEAF and Frontier take home prestigious awards. Details here!

    2020-Nissan-Frontier-910Leading consumer advocate J.D. Power has recognized Nissan LEAF and Nissan Frontier with top honors in their 2020 US Vehicle Dependability StudySM (VDS).

    The three-year-in-service study surveyed owners about their 2017 model year vehicles, with a lower score reflecting fewer issues per machine.

    As expected, Nissan LEAF was ranked as the top-performing non-premium vehicle and at the top of the compact car segment with a score of 83 problems experience per 100 vehicles (PP100). Also, LEAF is the first pure electric vehicle to win an overall segment award in the history of the VDS study.

    For 2020, Nissan LEAF can be specified with one of two battery options, a 40kWh version and a 62kWh one, ensuring that there is a Nissan LEAF machine that can meet the driving needs of a wide range of customers. The models also come with a warranty of 8 years/100,000 miles (whichever occurs first).

    Also, for a second consecutive year, Frontier took first place in the midsize pickup segment with the massive score of 110 PP100. The model also won the 2017 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study award, which measures new-vehicle quality at 90 days of ownership, proving the staying power of Frontier quality.

    SEE ALSO: Hyundai is about to unveil its futuristic Prophecy Concept vehicle!

    2020 Frontier is currently on display at the Chicago Auto Show. The vehicle comes with a revised 3.8-liter direct-injection V6 power unit and an all-new 9-speed automatic gearbox. Both of these are key elements not only for this particular model but for future vehicles as well. 2020 Frontier provides improved fuel economy and emission, compared to predecessor models. Also, buyers will benefit from enhanced performance rates.

     

     

  • Hyundai is about to unveil its futuristic Prophecy Concept vehicle!

    2020 Hyundai ProphecyHyundai Motor Company will unveil its latest EV concept, “Prophecy”, expressing the brand’s latest design language, at the upcoming Geneva International Motor Show, on March 3, 2020. The conceptual vehicle will remain on display until March 15th.

    In line with the brand’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design idea, new Prophecy embodies an appealing silhouette accentuated by elegant curves that flow over broad rear flanks that provide neat aerodynamics. Also, the boat-tail line created by the rear quarter panels is complemented by the integrated spoiler and pixel lamp taillights.

    As expected, “Prophecy” doesn’t follow trends. The entire idea is that the team focuses on the timeless beauty that will stand the test of time. Definitely an appealing vehicle, “Prophecy” stands out from the crowd and showcases how the future would look like. The name itself reflects on the concept’s purpose, defining the direction of future Hyundai automobiles.

    As expected, Hyundai team confidently marches towards its goal to become one of the most influential and innovative manufacturers out there and it seems that it is doing a great job at reaching this goal – with all the technologies and solutions presented to the public, it is out of the question that Hyundai will retain its positions as one of the best brands in the world!

    SEE ALSO: Six Honda vehicles earn recognition from IIHS

    Hyundai “Prophecy” concept EV will be unveiled on March 3, at the Geneva International Motor Show. Stick with us for further details.

    Source: Hyundai 

  • Six Honda vehicles earn recognition from IIHS

    2020 Honda CR-VFive Honda modes have managed to earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s TOP SAFETY PICK rating when geared with specific headlights. Also, one of the vehicles has achieved a TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award. Contributing to the top ratings, 2020 Accord, three Civic models (Coupe, Sedan and Hatch), Insight and CR-V each achieved the highest possible rating of “GOOD” in all six IIHS crashworthiness tests. Additionally, the advanced Honda Sensing driver-assistance technology managed to contribute to “SUPERIOR” ratings for vehicle-to-vehicle frontal crash prevention.

    For the 2020 model year, CR-V and Civic join the Accord, Insight, and Passport in offering Honda Sensing as part of the standard equipment on all trim levels. The system itself now includes Collision Mitigation Braking System with Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist, all along with Adaptive Cruise Control. Neat!

    Additionally, all Honda vehicles also benefit from Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure, designed to protect occupants in a wide variety of frontal collisions, along with an advanced supplemental restraint system, which includes pre-tensioning front seatbelts, and front, side, knee, and side-curtain airbags.

    SEE ALSO: New Audi Q3 has earned the overall 5-star safety rating from NCAP!

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

    2020 Honda Insight

    Source: Honda 

  • New Audi Q3 has earned the overall 5-star safety rating from NCAP!

    2020 Audi Q32019 and 2020 Audi Q3 compact SUV has earned the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program’s (NCAP) maximum overall safety rating of five stars in the latest series of tests. The US NCAP’s crashworthiness ratings evaluate performance and safety capabilities of vehicles in numerous crash tests including frontal, side and rollover crash scenarios. Thesethree tests account the majority of types of crashes on US roadways.

    NHTSA’ NCAP created the 5-star Safety Ratings program in order to provide consumers with information about the crash protection and overall safety capabilities of new features beyond the mandatory requirements by federal safety regulations.

    As it comes to the winner, Audi Q3 compact SUV managed to impress the jury with Audi Pre Sense basic, which can help prepare the vehicle for impact by beginning to close the side windows and sunroof, along with pretensioning the front safety belts.

    Additionally, the standard Pre Sense suite utilizes a front-mounted camera and radar sensor in order to monitor the area in front of the vehicle and provides visual and acoustic warning to help alert the driver for potentially dangerous situations.

    SEE ALSO: Aston Martin reveals Vantage Roadster – check it out!

    Geared with standard quattro AWD system, a sexy exterior design, intuitive technology integration, and thoughtful interior flexibility, new Audi Q3 offers strong entry to the brand. Furthermore, the 2.0-liter TFSI power unit, which generates 228hp and 258lb-ft of torque. The MMI touch display, introduced on the flagship vehicles is now standard for Q3. Additionally, the new family member offers a full suite of standard and available driver assistance features, designed to help drivers easily navigate the road and traffic.

    Source: Audi 

  • Aston Martin reveals Vantage Roadster – check it out!

    2020 Aston Martin Vantage RoadsterThe heartbeat of Aston Martin’s sports car range has just become even more advanced with the introduction of new Vantage Roadster. Joining the Vantage Coupe, which has launched back in 2018, the new convertible model amplifies the emotional appeal of the model that delivers a compelling blend of potent performance and outstanding dynamics.

    As expected, the vehicle also features refined drivetrain system. It is powered by Aston Martin’s 4.0-liter twin-turbo 510hp/685Nm V8 engine, which is further mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox. This setup allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.7 seconds and can reach a top speed of 342km/h with the roof raised. The weight of new Vantage is increased with 60 kg, compared to the Coupe version, because of the new Z-fold roof mechanism and optimized exterior. However heavy the vehicle becomes, the impeccable drivetrain system is still capable to ensure an enhanced sporty driving experience.

    Furthermore, Vantage Roadster retains strong dynamic capabilities thanks to the Adaptive Damping, Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic Torque Vectoring and Electronic Rear Differential, the Roadster benefits from specific dynamic refinements. These include a bespoke tune for the rear dampers, Adaptive Damping System software and ESP calibration. Neat!

    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster

    Although the Roadster emulates Coupe’s exceptional tactility and performance, the design of the exterior is solely it’s own. Being fitted with a neat Z-fold mechanism, the Vantage Roadster comes with the fastest operating folding mechanism ever fitted in a vehicle. There’s also an impressive low stack height that pays the double dividend of allowing Aston Martin’s award-winning design team the latitude to create a seamless rear profile with minimal impact on vehicle’s luggage space. In fact, the boot capacity is 200 liters – enough for a full-sized golf bag and all of the additional accessories.

    SEE ALSO: Audi expands the 2020 Q7 lineup. Check the new family member out!

    Furthermore, in order to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the Vantage nameplate, Aston Martin team introduces brand’s iconic “vane” grille as an option, available on both Coupe and Roadster as alternative to the “hunter” grille, placed on the Coupe from its launch in 2018. There is also a new range of optional alloy wheels set that can be further personalized with a choice of various finishes.

    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster

    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster
    2020 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster

    Source: Aston Martin 

  • 2020 Hyundai Palisade wins Cars.com’s “Best of” format!

    2020 Hyundai Palisade Today, Hyundai Palisade was named the winner of the coveted “Best of 2020” award from the third-party automotive experts at Cars.com. As you might know, every year, the organization tests numerous new vehicles and considers their quality, innovation and overall value in order to determine a winner.

    2020 Hyundai Palisade comes with an entirely revised SUV chassis with exceptional second- and third-row seating for up to eight passengers, coupled with ample cargo space and reconfiguration flexibility as part of the intuitive utility design. Hyundai’s new premium flagship also offers industry-first and class-leading technologies.

    Palisade’s innovative features include Hyundai Smart Sense Technology, 10-inch navigation display, 12-inch TFT cluster, wireless charging, seven USB outlets, second-row ventilated seats and innovative roof-based diffuser vents. In terms of exterior and interior design, the vehicle reflects its flagship identity with premium and distinctive presence that not only makes the vehicle visually appealing but also offers that strong sense of great value against its competitors.

    SEE ALSO: Lincoln team receives more awards at the Chicago Auto Show

    In addition to the “Best of 2020” accolade, Cars.com recently named Hyundai Palisade the winner of its 2020 3-Row SUV Challenge. This event included seven of the most popular midsize SUVs in a series of tests in order to see which model was the best in class. Neat!

    Source: Hyundai