Automobiles Review

Author: Georgi Boychev

  • INFINITI QX50 Consumer Guide Automotive Best Buy Award!

    2020 INFINITI QX502020 INFINITI QX50 has received the 2020 Consumer Guide Automobile Best Buy Award in the premium compact crossover/SUVs category, making the second year in a row the vehicle has won this award. The Consumer Automotive Best Buy Award has recognized the QX50 after evaluating more than 150 different models.

    2020 Consumer Guide Automotive Best Buy Award is based on objective ratings and by setting apart itself through performance value compared to other in the class. 2020 QX50 hits all premium compact SUV high points with its sexy design and advanced VC-Turbo power unit, which offers both high power and efficiency.

    2020 QX50 continues the tradition to grant customers with that unmistakable INFINITI signature design elements. What is new for this model, however, is the QX50 SENSORY and QX50 AUTOGRAPH trim levels, which include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto all along with a new generation of infotainment system with dual HD displays and tons of additional gadgets and utilities.

    SEE ALSO: Honda takes home one more prestigious award! Details here!

    2020 QX50 also comes with a highly capable interior space with sliding rear bench, a panoramic moonroof, and driver-centric asymmetric interior design that enhances the overall driving experience and cozy ambience. The machine is powered by INFINITI’s own 2.0-liter VC-Turbo power unit that offers low emissions and a front-wheel drive function, or an optional AWD system. Additionally, 2020 QX50 is also available with technologies as ProPILOT Assist, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Emergency Braking, High Beam Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

    Source: INFINITI 

  • Honda takes home one more prestigious award! Details here!

    2019 Honda Accord For the 24th time, Honda Accord has been named to the prestigious Car and Driver 10 Best list, winning history with no other similar. The 2020 model marks the 22nd consecutive year that the Accord has made the list.

    The 10th-generation Accord was introduced back in 2018 and redefined what a mainstream midsize sedan should look like. The vehicle impressed both critics and enthusiasts with sexy styling, sophisticated interior, and powerful and yet efficient drivetrain system. Joining the lineup a few months later, Accord Hybrid offers outstanding fuel efficiency without sacrificing comfort, refinement or interior space.

    In fact, Accord lineup is the best-selling midsize sedan in America for the last 44 years, with cumulative US sales topping 13.8 million units, and US production of more than 11.7 million units since going into production as the first US-made car form a Japanese automaker on November 1, 1982, in Marysville, Ohio.

    Honda offers a full line of reliable and efficient vehicles that also incorporate advanced safety technologies. Brand’s lineup includes the Fit, Civic, Insight, Accord, and Clarity passenger cars, along with the HR-V, CR-V, Passport and Pilot SUVs, the Ridgeline pickup and Odyssey minivan.

    SEE ALSO: Vauxhall reveals first details for upcoming 2020 Insignia!

    Honda team has been producing automobiles in America for more than 35 years and currently operates 19 major manufacturing facilities in North America. Back in 2018, more than 90 percent of all Honda vehicles sold in the US were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.

    Source: Honda 

  • Bentley Motors is named Britain’s Most Admired Car Company! Details Here!

    2019 Management Today BentleyBentley Motors has been simultaneously named Britain’s most admired car company and recognized as overall number one in the category for Best Quality of Products according to a leading survey by the prominent business magazine, Management Today.

    The annual Most Admired Companies Study dates back almost 30 years and honors the best businesses throughout the country and beyond. The two awards reflect the quality of the brand’s exquisite lineup of luxury automobiles such as the all-new Flying Spur, Mulsanne, Continental GT, and Bentayga.

    Bentley has achieved 13th position overall in the extensive study of 250 leading British companies across 25 sectors. UK’s largest public companies and leading employers were asked to evaluate their peer across 12 key criteria, making it the ultimate peer-review of corporate reputation.

    And as it enters its second century, Bentley has already confirmed that it aims to lead the way in the delivery of sustainable luxury mobility. The brand promises to offer hybrid or electric versions of all models in the prestigious lineup by 2023, and battery-powered electric solutions by 2025.

    2019 Management Today Bentley

    Significantly, the Pyms Lane factory in Crewe achieved carbon certification last year and the company has just launched the sexy Bentayta Hybrid SUV – Bentley’s first plug-in hybrid and its most efficient model so far.

    SEE ALSO: Bentley releases new Continental GT Limited Edition!

    Furthermore, the luxurious British marque celebrated its 100th year with a series of events around the world, culminating in the launch of the Bentley EXP 100 GT. As we have told you, the vehicle incorporates a breath-taking vision of the future which sets the benchmark for sustainability and innovation.

    Source: Bentley 

  • Bentley releases new Continental GT Limited Edition!

    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited EditionBentley has announced details about the striking Continental GT Limited Edition that celebrates the record-breaking automotive achievement from earlier in the British marque’s centenary year. The lineup is limited to 15 models and honors Bentley’s accomplishment at the demanding International Hill Climb event in the USA in June.

    The world’s finest Grand Tourer has managed to shave off 8.4 seconds form the existing record for the 12.42-mile course in Colorado, making it the fastest production car ever at Pikes Peak. Driven by three-time champion and former “King of the Mountain” Rhys Millen, the W12-powered machine climbed the peak in ere ten minutes and 18.4 seconds.

    The Limited Edition

    The new Limited Edition is characterized by a carbon-fiber body kit and sweet Radium by Mulliner paintwork, mirroring the color scheme used on the record-braking car. Glossy black details have also been added to the front lower bumper inserts, roof panel, wing mirrors and rear surfaces.

    There are also Acid Green brake disc calipers, Pirelli P Zero Color Edition tires in Radium Finish and Pikes Peak decal to the front bumper hit at the Limited Edition’s record-braking lineage, while the 22-inch Mulliner Driving wheels in Glossy Black top off the appealing expression.

    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited Edition

    Inside, Alcantara with contrasting radium thread stitching adorns much of the soft trim areas, matched with Beluga secondary hide. The steering wheel comes with honeycomb stitching design and a central stripe both in Radium. There are carbon-fiber fascias and wasitrails are complemented by a Piano Black central console, all adding to the sporty theme. The passenger-side fascia features a graphic showing a section of the Pikes Peak track, whit five different graphics being used across the 15-car run, along with the record-setting time of 10:18.488.

    Pikes Peak embroidery to the seat headrests in Radium stitching, Pikes peak treadplates and exclusive &O speaker covers in Black Anodised and Radium finish further enhance the interior appeal. Continental GT’s luxurious cabin includes the ground-braking Bentley Rotating Display, deep pile overmats and Front Seat Comfort Specifications.

    SEE ALSO: Jaguar presents details for the new F-TYPE lineup

    And just like the Continental GT that broke the Pikes Peak record earlier this year, the new model features world’s most advanced 12-cylinder petrol engine in the twin-turbocharged Bentley W12. This setup allows the vehicle to generate a total of 626hp and 900Nm of torque, effortlessly accelerating the GT from 0 to 100km/h in mere 3.7 seconds and chase a top speed of 333km/h.

    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited Edition

    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited Edition
    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited Edition
    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited Edition
    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited Edition
    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited Edition
    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited Edition
    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited Edition
    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited Edition
    2020 Bentley Continental GT Limited Edition

    Source: Bentley

  • Vauxhall reveals first details for upcoming 2020 Insignia!

    2020 Vauxhall Insignia Vauxhall team has revealed the first images of the new Insignia, brand’s flagship large saloon. The car proudly showcases sexy exterior styling, high levels of efficiency and innovative functions. Let’s find out more, shall we?

    The new design of the saloon reveals the new front and rear styling, reshaping the exterior appearance of the vehicle to accommodate class-leading new technology and equipment. The front-end adopts the next-gent of IntelliLux LED headlights, with 84 LED elements in each dipped beam for added efficiency, also improving visibility for night driving. At the rear, there’s a new rear-view camera and a rear cross-traffic alert system.

    Additionally, the flagship large saloon is reimaged with bold and yet attractive styling. The front follows the example set by the shape of the innovative new headlights, with the new chrome-edged radiator grille wider and featuring more prominent slats, making the Vauxhall logo in the middle appear larger. The LED DRLs are now positioned at the bottom instead of the top of the headlight unit.

    Overall, the new Insignia loos lower and wider than before, thanks to the position of the air vents with integrated fog lamps. The stance looks sharper and more coupe-like in its styling than previous models, with the Insignia’s design defined by clear curves and slim, horizontal lines.

    2020 Vauxhall Insignia

    In terms of technology, the newest Insignia features class-leading gadgets and equipment. As a first for this flagship model, Insignia features a new rear-view camera that improves rearview vision, radar sensors to detect objects 90 degrees to the left or right behind the car, up to a distance of 20 meters away. Also, the driver is warned by acoustic signals and on a dedicated display screen.

    For driver convenience, infotainment options are compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, from the basic seven-inch color touchscreen Multimedia Radio to the Multimedia Navi Pro unit. The top-of-the-line version comes with an eight-inch touchscreen and a number of Connected Navigation services.

    SEE ALSO: Jaguar presents details for the new F-TYPE lineup

    The optimal E-Call system exclusive to Vauxhall can be specified in Insignia orders, automatically sending an emergency call if the seatbelt tensioners or airbags are deployed. Or, for example, help can be summoned in seconds by pressing the red E-Call button. Nice!

    Additional innovative tech features include ergonomically certified AGR sears, compatible smartphones and more.

    2020 Vauxhall Insignia

    Source: Vauxhall

  • Should You Buy Your Off Lease Car

    2019-Second-Hand-Vehicle-910So, your lease is about to be up and you’re trying to decide whether to lease another car, buy a different car, or keep the one you have. Well, if your plan to buy another car entails getting a used one, you might just be better off continuing with the one you have. After all, you’ll never find a used car with which you’ll be more familiar — right? However, that’s just one of the things to ponder when you’re wondering whether you should buy your off lease car.

    What’s the Car Worth?

    The vehicle’s residual value was established when you signed the deal. The primary determinant of how much you paid, the residual is what the leasing company expected the car to bring as a used model when they liquidated it at the end of your lease. Sometimes they get that number dead on, other times they’re a bit too high or a bit too low. If the estimate was too low and you can buy the car for less than its fair market value, doing so is certainly worth considering.

    What’s the Car’s Condition?

    This one can be a double-edged sword. If you did everything the way you were told you should and the car is in pristine condition, buying it could be a good move — especially if the residual value is artificially low. On the other hand, if you flat dogged the ride and it shows, you’ll be required to pay for every little thing the inspector finds wrong at the end of the lease. In this instance, it might add up to what you’d pay to just keep the car — in which case you probably should. On the other hand, it could go either way if you’re somewhere in the middle of those two extremes.

    Mileage Matters Too

    The accrued mileage comes into play along with the overall condition of the car when it comes to determining its true value at the end of the lease. In most cases, your lease contract requires you to keep the mileage at or below 12,000 miles per year on mainstream cars and 10,000 miles per year on luxury cars. You’ll be required to pay $.25 for each mile over the agreed-upon amount if you exceeded your “mileage cap.”

    This can sometimes add up to more than it would cost to buy the car, or enough to make buying the car worth considering. However, this too can be a two-sided coin. If your mileage is far below what you agreed upon, you might well be in a position to get a great deal on an extremely low mileage used car. This is a very real consideration when you’re contemplating whether to lease or buy a car.

    Buyouts Are Negotiable

    The leasing company will have to pay to prepare the car for resale or auction when you turn it in. The typical $350 disposition fee it charges covers some of this. However, conditioning a car can sometimes cost more. It is completely within the realm of reason to offer the leasing company a lower price than the residual value to make the purchase.

    Of course, you’ll only know any of these things for sure if you ask.

    If you’re going back and forth over whether you should buy your off lease car, it never hurts to get in touch with an agent of the leasing company to see if you can negotiate a lower purchase price. After all, you’ll be saving them a lot of trouble and expense. They might be willing to pass that on to you in savings if you decide to keep the car.

  • PEUGEOT announces new Expert Sport Editions! Check them out!

    PEUGEOT Expert Sport EditionIntroducing a new flagship, PEUGEOT has added the new Sport Edition lineup to the Expert Panel Van and Crew Van model ranges. The Expert Sport Edition units will be positioned above the Asphalt variants and will offer tons of goodies as part of the standard equipment.

    The specific equipment includes exclusive 17-inch Black Phoenix alloy wheels, Sport Decals, and three neat colors: Cumulus Grey, Bianca White and Nera Black. All models will be based on the Expert Standard wheelbase.

    Available from early 2020, the first PEUGEOT Expert Sport Edition models to reach showrooms will be the Expert Panel Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 120 S&S 6-speed manual 1400 and the Expert Crew Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 150 S&S 6-speed manual 1400.

    The Panel Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 120 S&S 6-speed manual 1400 will be powered by the Euro 6.2-compliant BlueHDi desel engine, delivering 120hp and 340Nm of torque. Crew Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 150 will also be geared with Euro 6.2 BlueHDi diesel unit that generates a total of 148hp and 370Nm of torque.

    SEE ALSO: Jaguar presents details for the new F-TYPE lineup

    Payload and load volume remains the same as for the other Expert models. Panel Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 120 S&S 6-speed manual 1400 will carry a maximum indicative payload of 1,458kg with 5.3m3 of load volume that can be extended to 5.8m3 with the Moduwork® seat folded. Equivalent payload and body volume data for the Expert Crew Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 150 S&S 6-speed manual 1400 are 1,308kg and 3.2m3.

    PEUGEOT Expert Sport Edition

    As part of PEUGEOT’s ambition to electrify 100 per cent of its LCV range by 2021, the fully electric e-Expert will join the Expert range in the second half of 2020. The e-Expert shares some identical loadspace volume and the same elegant styling.

    Source: PEUGEOT 

  • Jaguar presents details for the new F-TYPE lineup

    2020 Jaguar F-PACENew Jaguar F-TYPE is more appealing than ever: the new family member adopts more sculpted and assertive expression of the definitive Jaguar signature design and features luxurious materials, exceptional craftsmanship and appealing details.

    The sexy two-seater also offers a neat balance between performance and pleasure of driving with its more powerful and responsive engines. Furthermore, the new F-TYPE also offers more driver-focused technology, including a reconfigurable, high-definition 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster, Touch Pro infotainment system, and Smartphone Pack with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

    Exterior

    In term of design, the vehicle has evolved further with a focus on the sporty expression and elegant masculinity. New F-TYPE is characterized by new super-slip pixel LED headlights with subtly updated signature “Calligraphy” J daytime running lights, and sweeping direction indicators that blend neatly in the “liquid metal” surfacing of the clamshell bonnet. At the rear, the F-TYPE shows tight and purposeful form, while the new slender rear lights blend an unmistakable LED chicane signature with subtle monogram pattern detailing and a fine “pinstripe” beneath.

    Interior

    2020 Jaguar F-PACE

    As it comes to interior, the cabin combines traditional Jaguar craftsmanship with rich and modern materials such as Windsor Leather and satin-finish Noble Chrome. There are numerous beautiful details as monogram stitching patterns in the seats and door trims and Jaguar Leaper motifs in the headrests.

    SEE ALSO: Maserati celebrates the 60th anniversary of the exclusive 5000 GT model!

    Drivetrain system

    2020 Jaguar F-PACE

    The new F-TYPE can be specified with a wide choice of engine types – – 300PS turbocharged four-cylinder, 380PS supercharged V6 and 450PS and 575PS V8s, all featuring active exhaust systems, which are switchable either as an option or as standard. Customers that choose the two highest output systems will also benefit from the new Quiet Start function, which ensures subtle and refined sound – the electrically-actuated bypass valves in the rear silencer remain closed until they are automatically open up under load. Also, if desired, Quiet Start can be over-ridden by selecting Dynamic Mode or by pressing the switchable exhaust button before starting the engine.

    Enjoy!

    2020 Jaguar F-PACE
    2020 Jaguar F-PACE
    2020 Jaguar F-PACE
    2020 Jaguar F-PACE
    2020 Jaguar F-PACE
    2020 Jaguar F-PACE
    2020 Jaguar F-PACE
    2020 Jaguar F-PACE
    2020 Jaguar F-PACE
    2020 Jaguar F-PACE
    2020 Jaguar F-PACE
    2020 Jaguar F-PACE

    Source: Jaguar

  • Maserati celebrates the 60th anniversary of the exclusive 5000 GT model!

    1959 Maserati 5000 GTSixty years ago, the 5000 GT, a 2+2 coupe, was presented at the Turin Motor Show and was the undisputed star of the event. Maserati celebrates the anniversary with a special lineup that honors the Shah of Persia, Reza Pahlavi. There were mere 34 models built at the Viale Ciro Menotti plant in Modena, with bodywork added by Italy’s top coachbuilders of the period.

    The project continued to 1959, and was in effect a new car and not merely a customization: the engine was a V8 power unit that generated a total of 405hp and was featuring a displacement of almost five liters.

    The car of which the first bodywork was built by Carrozzeria Touring, was launched at the 1959 Turin Motor Show and received the nickname “Shah of Persia” in honor of the unique customer. Only three of that special version were ever produced.

    1959 Maserati 5000 GT

    In the following year, 1960, the 500 GT was exhibited on the stand of the Geneva Motor Show, with a few revisions to the engine. The most interesting fact about the Maserati 5000 GT was that it was built with bodywork by almost all the leading Italian coachbuilders at the time: from Allemano, Pininfarina, Monterosa, Ghia, Bertone and Frua and Michelotti for Vignale.

    SEE ALSO: WCA makes its stop in California for the 2020 LA Test Drive Event!

    Maserati team has proven that it is absolutely capable of creating a prestigious product that showcases exclusive elegance, impeccable functionality and absolute comfort, all blended with a refined drivetrain system. 5000 GT is definitely a VIP vehicle in terms of exclusivity and performance.

    1959 Maserati 5000 GT

    1959 Maserati 5000 GT
    1959 Maserati 5000 GT
    1959 Maserati 5000 GT
    1959 Maserati 5000 GT
    1959 Maserati 5000 GT
    1959 Maserati 5000 GT

    Source: Maserati 

  • Kia reveals plans and specs for upcoming 2020 e-Niro and Soul models

    2020 Kia e-Niro With its latest update, the new e-Niro and the all-new Soul EV arriving in 2020, Kia will have two distinctive electric cars capable of covering a range of 280 miles range or more with a single charge and zero tailpipe emissions.

    The original allocation of the new e-Niro models for the UK has sold out within weeks of going on sale in 2019 and now for 2020, Kia Motors Limited has promised numerous more supplies to clear the existing 3,000 customer waiting list. The plan is to roll out the cars in the first six months of the new year and ensure even more supplies for the second half.

    With a relatively affordable price, the new e-Niro grants buyers with LED headlights, Battery Heating System and an enhanced cabin pack with a 10.25-inch Touchscreen Satellite Navigation, Telematics System and UVO Connect Services and Ambient Lighting. Customers who haven’t applied for the waiting already, have the chance to order the model at dealerships now for delivery in July next year.

    SEE ALSO: Hyundai team busts some myths regarding the electric vehicles!

    The all-new Soul EV’s order-bank opened in July and deliveries are due to commence in April. It comes with improved specs and technology over predecessor models and benefits from the same batteries and powertrain as the e-Niro lineup.

    Source: Kia 

  • New Chevrolet C8 Corvette ZR1 rumored to possess 900 Horsepower

    2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8With the new C8 Corvette just around the corner for 2020, there are several speculations in the wind as to how much more powerful the new generation of ‘Vettes will be. Motortrend may have a definitive answer to that question. As it stands, the magazine cites a senior official at GM, who shall remain nameless, that the C8 ZR1 may pack as much as 900 horsepower right out of the factory.

    A monster in the works

    The new C8 Corvette has taken the sports car market in the US by storm. The entry-level Stingray won’t be available by February, and Chevrolet reports that the company has already hit 60% of the total allocated pre-order units. Packing in a newly designed LT2 6.2L V8 under the hood, this beast has 495 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque sent straight to the rear wheels. Now that the engine is mounted in the middle, the car’s weight balance has been refined. This makes it not only the most powerful Stingray ever but the best handling one as well.

    Muscle Cars and Trucks did a recent dyno test with the new C8 Corvette. The results of the test made quite a buzz since the actual power figures went way ahead of the official data. The C8 Corvette Stingray is easily capable to take on the best of the Porsches and McLarens, without costing more than a dime above $60,000 for the base trim.

    It’s not the first time when the internet is going crazy over the new C8 Corvette but yeah this news shook the Corvette world as the 2019 Corvette ZR1 had a horsepower of 755 only. A bump of 145 horsepower could be a gamechanger for Chevy.

    Power and More Power

    Whereas the Stingray seems impressive enough with its performance, it denotes the just tip of the iceberg. Early in November, Chevrolet unveiled the C8.R racing car that will compete in the Daytona. This version had a 5.5L flat-plane crank 5.5L V8 that produced 500 horsepower. While this LT2 powertrain is sure to find its way into production Corvettes, Chevy has also confirmed twin-turbo and hybrid powertrains of the same.

    A recent report from Jalopnik stated the design and cutaway images for both the C8 Z06 and ZR1. While the Z06 would go for the twin-turbo LT2 V8 engine, the hybrid powertrain would find its way into the ZR1. According to this report, there is a section in the front of the car housing a 1.94 kWh battery connected to an electric motor in the front axle. The setup would deliver an additional 114 horsepower to the front wheels, making the total output to 914 horsepower. That is 100 more than what Chevrolet had initially led everyone to believe. Not only that, the arrangement of the engine and motor make the C8 ZR1 effectively an AWD.

    When can it hit the showrooms?

    2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8

    It is rather difficult to predict when the C8 Corvette ZR1 might make its way to Chevrolet dealerships. Since there has been no official announcement, we can safely assume that there will be nothing happening until at least the fall of 2020. This puts the Z06 behind by a year from the Stingray, a rather large time gap by Corvettes. Nevertheless, the specs show that the supercar-killer is well worth the wait. It may be one of the best performance cars, even the most powerful production cars, to ever set foot on American soil, ever. For updates regarding the launch of 2020 C8 Corvette check out Chevy Cars where they cover everything related to Chevrolet and all it’s upcoming projects.

  • WCA makes its stop in California for the 2020 LA Test Drive Event!

    2019 WCA Event For the sixth consecutive year, the Road to the World Car Awards has made its annual stop in California in November for the “2020 LA Test Drives”.

    The journey has begun in Frankfurt on September 10, 2019 and follows 86 international automotive journalists who make up the jury panel for the World Car Awards (WCA) as they test-drive and vote for the “Top Three in the World” finalists as well as the overall winners.

    This year’s event will end at the New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, April 8th, 2020 when the winners will be declared during an awards ceremony that officially opens the show.

    As you might know, “LA Test Drivers” were hosted by ZF, which gave the participating journalists an idea of the future of autonomous driving from a supplier’s perspective. The demonstration included a realistic sense of the costs and timelines involved. Also, according to Aaron Jefferson, Vice President of Product Strategy, ZF Global Electronics, full level of autonomy will be achieved first in commercial applications and defined areas, while the private passenger vehicles will continue the evolution for quite some time.

    SEE ALSO: Hyundai team busts some myths regarding the electric vehicles!

    The “LA Test Drives” enables WCA’s international jurors to evaluate vehicles that may not be available in their home markets on an ideal test bed of American roads from a base in Pasadena. Driving routes include both urban and rural roads, a stretch of multi-lane interstate and section of the iconic Angeles Crest Highway. This mountainous series of switchbacks and turns is a real test for even the most capable vehicles.

    https://youtu.be/h5z1f-64VUo

    Source: World Car Awards