Automobiles Review

Author: autoview

Kia describes 2015 Rio Sedan

Kia Motors America has described the new 2015 Kia Rio Sedan – a car that, according to the car maker, combines spirited road manners, tremendous value and cutting-edge features.

Just like before, the 2015 Kia Rio Sedan belongs to the compact class but despite this the new vehicle comes with a large number of standard features and safety technologies as well as excellent interior space. The new car keeps some of the features introduced in the 2014 Kia Rio Sedan, namely changes to the engine, to the body and to the rear bumper that improve aerodynamics. In addition to that the 2015 Kia Rio Sedan gets to keep the revised smart key remote that offers a folding design for convenience, the water temperature gauge and the enhanced leather-wrapped steering wheel, introduced back in the 2014 year model.

The new 2015 Kia Rio Sedan is available in three trims – LX, EX and SX. All of them come with different levels of equipment but the same engine – a 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder unit with the option of having a six-speed manual transmission (LX only) or efficient six-speed automatic. In addition to that the 2015 Kia Rio Sedan LX version now offers a six-speed automatic transmission with an Active ECO system, which optimizes fuel economy when activated. This is a first for the LX trim of the Kia Rio Sedan. The engine, mounted in the car, produces 138 horsepower (101 kW) and delivers 27 US mpg city/37 US mpg highway or 8.7 liters/6.4 liters per 100 km city/highway of fuel economy.

The new 2015 Kia Rio Sedan packs tons of features that will satisfy everyone looking for a comfort drive. All trims include an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio unit with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capabilities, and auxiliary and USB audio input jacks for connecting MP3 players with full iPod^® and MP3 controllability via the audio head unit and steering wheel-mounted controls. If this is not enough you can upgrade your 2015 Kia Rio Sedan LX trim with the Power Package (automatic transmission only), which adds power windows with automatic up/down functionality on the driver’s window, and remote keyless entry. The EX model offers a chrome front grille surround, power windows with driver’s one-touch auto-up/down, power door locks with remote keyless entry, cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls², and a tilt and telescopic steering column, which is also true for the SX version. In addition to that, though, the SX version offers a sport-tuned suspension, front ventilated disc brakes, 17-inch alloy wheels and paddle shifters. The EX version can also be upgraded if you feel like it – for some more money you can get an available ECO Package when the Convenience Package has been selected, which adds Idle, Stop and Go (ISG) technology for enhanced fuel efficiency. The luxurious Premium Package available on the SX trim offers a navigation system with SiriusXM Traffic, push-button start with Smart Key, leather seat trim, heated front seats and a power tilt/slide sunroof, giving it an open, airy feel.

The pricing of the 2015 Kia Rio Sedan is unknown as of now but we will publish it as soon as it becomes available later this year. In any case, given Kia’s history of offering cheaper models, we do not expect the 2015 Kia Rio Sedan to cost an arm and a leg.

Source: Kia Motors America

August 25, 2014
Nissan lists US pricing for 2015 Frontier and Xterra
Nissan has made available the US pricing for the 2015 Frontier pick-up and Xterra SUV models that are already in stock at Nissan dealers in the United States.

The Nissan Frontier is a leading vehicle in the mid-size truck segment that combines extra power, exceptional road performance and premium hardware. The 2015 Nissan Frontier pick-up receives a few upgrades that include an added moonroof for Frontier SL Long Wheelbase models, NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps now standard on PRO-4X models, Nissan ConnectSM with Mobile Apps and 5.0-inch color display now standard with Frontier SV and Desert Runner grades and one new exterior color – Arctic Blue Metallic.

The 2015 Nissan Frontier is again powered by two engines – a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that delivers 152 horsepower (112 kW) (King Cab only) and a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine that is rated at 261 horsepower (192 kW) and 281 lb-ft (381 Nm) of torque. The 2015 Frontier is offered in both King Cab and Crew Cab body styles and in 4×2 and 4×4 driveline configurations, along with five trim grades: Frontier S (4-cylinder and V6), SV, PRO-4X (4×4 only), Desert Runner (4×2 only) and SL (Crew Cab only). The destination fee for the vehicle is USD 860.

Here’s the price list of the 2015 Nissan Frontier King Cab, excluding the destination fee:
- Frontier S King Cab 4×2 I4 5MT – USD 17,990;
- Frontier S King Cab 4×2 I4 5AT – USD 20,660;
- Frontier SV King Cab 4×2 I4 5MT – USD 21,970;
- Frontier SV King Cab 4×2 I4 5AT – USD 23,020;
- Frontier SV King Cab 4×2 V6 6MT – USD 24,450;
- Frontier SV King Cab 4×2 V6 5AT – USD 23,610;
- Frontier Desert Runner King Cab 4×2 V6 5AT – USD 24,190;
- Frontier SV King Cab 4×4 V6 6MT – USD 27,240;
- Frontier SV King Cab 4×4 V6 5AT – USD 26,310;
- Frontier PRO-4X King Cab 4×4 V6 6MT – USD 30,550;
- Frontier PRO-4X King Cab 4×4 V6 5AT – USD 31,750;
The pricing of the 2015 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab is as follows:
- Frontier S Crew Cab 4×2 SWB V6 6MT – USD 22,700;
- Frontier S Crew Cab 4×2 SWB V6 5AT – USD 23,750;
- Frontier SV Crew Cab 4×2 SWB V6 6MT – USD 25,860;
- Frontier SV Crew Cab 4×2 SWB V6 5AT – USD 24,630;
- Frontier Desert Runner Crew Cab 4×2 SWB V6 5AT – USD 25,510;
- Frontier SV Crew Cab 4×2 LWB V6 5AT – USD 25,350;
- Frontier SL Crew Cab 4×2 SWB V6 5AT – USD 31,360;
- Frontier SL Crew Cab 4×2 LWB V6 5AT – USD 32,560;
- Frontier S Crew Cab 4×4 SWB V6 6MT – USD 25,400;
- Frontier S Crew Cab 4×4 SWB V6 5AT – USD 26,450;
- Frontier SV Crew Cab 4×4 SWB V6 6MT – USD 28,560;
- Frontier SV Crew Cab 4×4 SWB V6 5AT – USD 27,630;
- Frontier SV Crew Cab 4×4 LWB V6 5AT – USD 28,050;
- Frontier PRO-4X Crew Cab 4x4SWB V6 6MT – USD 31,510;
- Frontier PRO-4X Crew Cab 4×4 SWB V6 5AT – USD 32,560;
- Frontier SL Crew Cab 4×4 SWB V6 5AT – USD 34,010;
- Frontier SL Crew Cab 4×4 LWB V6 5AT – USD 35,260;
There is a USD 860 destination fee here too.

The new 2015 Nissan Xterra offers power, value and authenticity for all people who like to go outdoors. There are three well-equipped models – X, S and PRO-4X (4×4 only) – that will satisfy the needs of every Xterra buyer. The new model comes with a few improvements – the Xterra S now comes with NissanConnectSM with Mobile Apps, a 5.0-inch color audio display, a USB connection port for iPod® interface and other compatible devices, a Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Streaming audio via Bluetooth®, a Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant and a SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately). There’s also a new SolarFlare yellow exterior color that will be available a bit later.

All Xterra models feature an advanced 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine, rated at 261 horsepower (192 kW) and 281 lb-ft (381 Nm) of torque, along with a rugged “F-Alpha” truck platform for adventure-ready performance. Xterra is available with a choice of 6-speed manual (S 4×4 and PRO-4X 4×4 only) or 5-speed automatic transmissions and in a choice of part-time 4-wheel drive or 2-wheel drive.

Here’s what you will have to pay in order to get a new 2015 Nissan Xterra:
- Xterra X 4×2 V6 5AT – USD 23,660;
- Xterra S 4×2 V6 5AT – USD 25,670;
- Xterra X 4×4 V6 5AT – USD 25,710;
- Xterra S 4×4 V6 6MT – USD 26,670;
- Xterra S 4×4 V6 5AT – USD 27,720;
- Xterra PRO-4X 4×4 V6 6MT – USD 30,590;
- Xterra PRO-4X 4×4 V6 5AT – USD 31,640;
The destination fee for the 2015 Xterra is USD 860.

Source: Nissan
August 25, 2014
Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe now offers supercharged performance

Honda has announced that its CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe can now have supercharged performance thanks to a new dealer-installed Honda Performance Development (HPD) supercharger kit that includes a wide number of improvements and enhancements. In case you do not know, HPD is Honda’s North American racing company and it develops various full lines of street performance accessories for the CR-Z, first revealed at the 2013 SEMA Show.

“The CR-Z was the first hybrid to prove that efficiency doesn’t have to come at the cost of sportiness and fun,” said Art St. Cyr, president of Honda Performance Development. “With HPD street performance accessories, including the new supercharger kit, the CR-Z will surprise everyone again with even higher levels of performance directly inspired by our on-track racing efforts.”

The new HPD supercharger kit is available for the 2013 and 2014 Honda CR-Z models with manual transmissions. It boosts total powertrain output to 197 horsepower (145 kW) versus 130 horsepower (96 kW) in the stock 2013 and 2014 Honda CR-Z models with manual transmissions thanks to the included HPD air-to-air intercooler, high-flow fuel injectors, an ECU calibrated to meet CARB AT-PZEV regulations with 91 octane fuel and the HPD air filter system.

The new HPD supercharger kit is available at Honda dealers where it costs USD 5,495 but this price does not include the installation. The installation of this upgrade will not void your Honda warranty and owners of 2013 and 2014 Honda CR-Z models will get to keep the customer’s 5-year/60,000 miles (100,000 km) Honda limited powertrain warranty if the supercharger kit is installed by a Honda dealer. The HPD supercharger kit is available exclusively for CR-Z manual transmission models and HPD has developed an optional limited slip differential and HPD sport clutch for those customers looking for an even higher level of performance.

HPD also offers street performance accessories that improve track handling. They include HPD sport dampers, coil springs with reduced ride height, 300mm diameter disc brakes and HPD 18-inch wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. The CR-Z is completed by a graphics package including front lip and tail spoilers, rear diffuser and HPD badge.

Source: Honda

August 22, 2014
Chevrolet talks about new Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed transmission

The new 2015 Chevrolet Silverado has many features to boast with but Chevrolet is very proud to present the GM-developed Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed transmission that is implemented in the vehicle. Indeed, this is a technological masterpiece and deserves some attention because apart from the engine, the transmission is the most important car feature that defines a vehicle.

The new Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed transmission is connected to a powerful 6.2-liter EcoTec V8 engine that is housed in the new 2015 Chevrolet Silverado and provides 11 per cent more torque than GM’s 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission. This along with the 6.2-liter EcoTec V8 engine that gives off 420 horsepower (309 kW) and 460 lb-ft (624 Nm) of torque is a combination that will satisfy everyone’s thirst for power.

“The new 8L90 eight-speed is designed tougher to handle the greater power of the Silverado’s powertrains, with great improvements in spin loss to complement that capability with greater efficiency,” said Kavoos Kaveh, global chief engineer for eight-speed automatic transmissions. “It is a marvel of packaging efficiency and driving efficiency that has garnered more than two dozen patents for General Motors.”

The Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed transmission features four simple gearsets for optimal efficiency, five clutches (two brake clutches and three rotating ones) and innovative packaging that allows it to fit in the same space as the previous six-speed automatic with a lower weight. A wider 7.0 overall gear ratio spread provides a numerically higher 4.56 first gear ratio, helping drivers start off more confidently with a heavy load or when trailering. Smaller steps between gears, compared to the 6L80 (see chart below), keep the engine within the sweet spot of the rpm band, making the most of its horsepower and torque to optimize performance and efficiency. They also enable numerically lower rear axle ratios, which reduce engine rpm on the highway for reduced fuel consumption. The gearbox also features a number of friction-reducing technologies, including an all-new synthetic fluid and lower spin losses via a powerflow that uses only two open clutches. A new torque converter design with turbine damper enhances refinement, particularly during low-speed gear changes, for smoother performance when the truck is loaded or pulling a trailer.

Similar to GM’s six-speed automatic design, the eight-speed’s architecture locates the grounding clutches rearward of the middle of the structure, outside the gearsets. However, the grounding clutches are splined to the case, eliminating the center support, which reduces weight. This architecture also features a turbine shaft node that reaches to the outside of the barrel, enabling easy execution of a high-resolution magnetic speed sensor. The turbine shaft itself is very short, keeping oil channel drill lengths to a minimum. The rotating clutches are located near the front of the transmission, with short oil feed channels, supporting very fast shifts.

There are many other features that this revolutionary gearbox comes with such as an industry-first off-axis, chain-driven binary vane-type pump that allows for two pumps in the packaging size of a single, a 60-percent reduction in pump torque at points that represent large portions of the operating duty cycle, compared to the 6L80 six-speed, a new torque converter clutch friction lining and a new control strategy and more.

The new 8L90 is built at GM’s Toledo, Ohio, transmission facility.

Source: Chevrolet

August 21, 2014
New Honda Accord features multiple feature upgrades

Today is a big day for Honda fans around the world due to a simple reason – the 2015 Honda Accord Sedan and Coupe begin to go on sale. Both vehicles are complemented by the all-new 50-mpg-rated Accord Hybrid and are sure to make a splash on the market with a combination of quality and new features.

Despite the fact that the Accord Sedan and Coupe are already very well equipped, they come with some more feature upgrades for the year 2015. Both 4-cylinder Sedan and Coupe EX-L and EX-L Navi equipment levels include the HomeLink universal remote system that can be programmed with the codes of up to three devices such as a garage-door opener or home security system. The 2015 Accord EX Coupe with a 4-cylinder engine gets the Honda LaneWatch display that makes use of a camera and an in-dash display to provide an enhanced view of the passenger-side roadway. All 2015 Accord EX-L models and Coupe vehicles also come with an auto dimming rearview mirror.

The two models are driven by modern and powerful engines that feature improvements as well. There is a choice between two engines, based on Earth Dreams Technology – a 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine with direct injection and 185 horsepower (136 kW) and a 278-horsepower (204 kW) 3.5-liter VTEC V6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). The first engine delivers 189 horsepower (139 kW) in the 2015 Accord Sport Sedan model.

The first 4-cylinder engine can be had with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or 6-speed manual (6MT) and reaches 36 US mpg (6.5 liters per 100 km) highway rating while the second V6 engine can be had with a six-speed automatic (6AT) transmission with a 34 US mpg (6.9 liters per 100 km) highway rating. The V6 Coupe models can be equipped with either the 6AT or a 6-speed manual with the 6AT transmission/engine combination reaching 32 US mpg (7.3 liters per 100 km) highway rating. The 2015 Honda Accord hybrid is powered by Honda’s Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) two-motor hybrid system that transitions seamlessly between electric motor power, gasoline engine power and hybrid gas-electric propulsion, delivering power to the wheels without the need of a conventional transmission. This elegant powertrain helps the Accord Hybrid earn a 50 US mpg (4.7 liters per 100 km) EPA city rating.

The 2014 Accord received numerous accolades, including an unprecedented 28th Car and Driver “10 Best” title, as well as an Automobile Magazine “All-Star” award and “Best Family Car” award from Parenting magazine and Edmunds.com. Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com named the Accord a “Best Resale Value” vehicle and recognized it as having the lowest cost of ownership for a midsize sedan over a projected 5-year period. Included in the awards given to the 2014 Accord Hybrid were a MotorWeek “2014 Driver’s Choice Award,” a KBB.com “10 Best Green Car of 2014” award and a naming to Green Car Journal’s “Top 10 Green Car Technology List for 2014.”

Source: Honda

August 21, 2014
2015 Kia Sportage increases comfort and more

The Korean automaker Kia Motors has described the new 2015 Kia Sportage. A particular feature of the upcoming vehicle is that it comes with greatly enhanced driver and passenger comfort apart from other tech improvements. The new car is offered in three trim levels – LX, EX and SX and comes with two powertrains – a 2.4L GDI I4 (LX and EX) and a 2.0L Turbo GDI (SX).

Even with the basic LX trim, the new Kia Sportage offers a number of standard features that include 17-inch alloy wheels matched with 225/60R17 low-rolling-resistance silica tires, body-color door handles, Bluetooth^® Wireless Technology Hands-Free Connectivity, solar glass, privacy glass, keyless entry with folding key and a six-speed electronically controlled Sportmatic™ automatic transmission. The next-level EX trim offers stylish 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/55R18 tires, LED turn signals on the outside mirrors, high-performance dampers, roof rails, a rear spoiler, fog lamps and chrome body trim and door handles. The most luxurious SX trim upgrades all this equipment with a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI engine that produces 260-horsepower (191 kW), unique 18-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust, sculpted side sill moldings, LED accent lighting along the headlamps for a sportier, more upscale appearance and a unique SX grille. For added driver comfort, a tilt and telescopic steering column is standard across all trims.

There are certain features that all trims come with and here’s a short list – the 2015 Kia Sportage will also come with standard rear vents and reclining outboard seats as well as an optional ventilated seat for the front passenger. Drivers of the EX trim are treated to the perks of standard heated front seats, Infinity^®Premium Audio, and heated outside mirrors. The impressive Premium Package adds navigation with SiriusXM Traffic, leather-trimmed seats, panoramic sunroof, smart key with push-button start, and power-folding outside mirrors. In addition buyers of all versions will get Apple USB compatibility, a UVO system (optional on LX models only) that provides diagnostics capabilities and more convenience features such as Advanced Voice Recognition for easier music control and hands-free mobile phone operations. When equipped with UVO eServices, the 2015 Sportage also features a Rear Camera Display and auto headlamp system.

The new Kia Sportage will go on sale sometime in 2015.

Source: Kia Motors America

August 20, 2014
Certain 2015 Subaru models earn Top Safety Pick+ awards

No matter what kind of car you drive on a daily basis, safety remains a top objective because after all the goal of travelling and driving in particular is to get where you want on time and well. This is the reason why many safety technologies get implemented in various cars and they tend to improve on a yearly basis. Still, it is really hard to pick a safe car but thanks to the efforts of the US Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) this task has become a bit easier.

The IIHS has just enriched your choice with the addition of the all-new 2015 Subaru Legacy and Subaru Outback, which have been given the 2014 Top Safety Pick+ designation. The new Subaru Legacy has achieved the highest possible rating of “good” in the Institute’s crashworthiness evaluations of front small overlap, front moderate overlap, side impact, roof crush and rear impact. The sedan also received a “superior” rating in the Institute’s front crash avoidance testing. The catch is that in order to have the 2014 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation the 2015 Subaru Legacy must have the optional EyeSight® driver-assist system.

The all-new 2015 Subaru Outback has also achieved the highest possible rating of ‘good’ in the Institute’s crashworthiness evaluations, as well as a “superior” rating in the front crash avoidance testing. Just like in the 2015 Subaru Legacy case, the new 2015 Subaru Outback needs to be equipped with the optional EyeSight® driver-assist system.

Subaru is also proud to announce that seven Subaru models, including the BRZ, Impreza, WRX/STI and XV Crosstrek, have earned 2014 safety awards from IIHS – four with Top Safety Pick and three with Top Safety Pick+ including its Forester, Legacy and Outback models equipped with optional EyeSight®. As Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc., says “The Institute’s findings reinforce our dedication to building safe vehicles. We are proud of the 2014 Top Safety Pick endorsement for every Subaru vehicle in our line-up.”

Source: Subaru

August 20, 2014
Renault publishes UK Twingo pricing and more

The French automaker Renault has described in detail the pricing of the upcoming third generation Twingo. The prices are valid for the UK only but they still give an idea what the new city car will cost.

Before we go to the price list we have to say that there are three versions of the all-new Twingo – Expression, Play and Dynamique with a choice of two engines – the new 1.0-liter 70 hp SCe three-cylinder normally aspirated engine and a Dynamique TCe 90 with a 0.9-liter 90 hp three-cylinder turbocharged unit. This gives a total of four models – the Expression SCe 70 will sell for GBP 9,495, the Play SCe 70 will cost GBP 9,995, while the Dynamique SCe 70 S&S and Dynamique ENERGY TCe 90 S&S will sell for GBP 10,995 and GBP 11,695, respectively.

In case you wonder what this money will get you here’s some more information. The new 1.0-liter SCe three-cylinder engine delivers 70 horsepower (51 kW) at 6,000 rpm, 91 Nm (67 lb-ft) of torque at 2,850 rpm and accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 14.5 seconds, while offering a top speed of 151 km/h (94 mph). The 0.9-liter TCe 90 three-cylinder turbocharged unit offers 90 horsepower (66 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque at 2,500 rpm; the engine can accelerate the new Twingo from 0-100 km/h (0-62 miles) in 10.8 seconds and the top speed is 166 km/h (103 mph).

The new Twingo offers much more than engines, though. For the first time in the history of the car the engine is placed in the back and drives the rear wheels; in addition to that there are five doors instead of just three. The new rear-engine layout makes the car a bit smaller and the third generation Twingo is 10 cm (4 in) shorter than its predecessor at just 3.59 meters (11.8 feet) but the wheelbase is 12 cm (4.7 in) longer at 2.49 meters (8.2 feet) and there is 22 cm (8.7 in) more cabin room. The very fuel efficient three-cylinder 12V engines now allow you to get up to 14 UK mpg (22.5 km) more than before and feature as much as 35 grams/km lower carbon dioxide emissions than the engines in the previous Twingo. Thus the Dynamique SCe 70 car with Start & Stop technology can achieve 67.3 mpg UK (4.2 liters/100 km) of fuel consumption and just 95 g/km of carbon dioxide emissions. All versions of the new Twingo exceed 60 mpg UK (4.7 liters/100 km) of mixed fuel consumption and reach 50 mpg UK (5.6 liters/100 km) in urban conditions.

On the outside the new car comes with body-colored bumpers, door handles and exterior door mirror shells, a rear spoiler and LED daytime running lights. Comfort and convenience are provided with electric power steering, electric front windows, remote central locking, a speed limiter, a height-adjustable steering wheel, a trip computer and gearchange indicator, a lane-change function for the indicators and the automatic activation of the rear screen wiper when reverse gear is selected. The Play version adds an air conditioner, a height-adjustable driver’s seat and steering wheel and 15-inch black two-tone wheel trims in place of the grey ones with Expression.

Dynamique versions add 15-inch alloy wheels, pinstripe shoulder-line decals, front fog lamps, electric heated door mirrors, cruise control, a lane departure warning system, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshift knob, white instrument backlighting, a folding key and storage pockets in the rear doors. This version also benefits from Stop & Start engines that cut emissions and improve fuel economy. The Dynamique TCe 90 is fitted with Variable Gear Ratio power-assisted steering, making the vehicle more agile and reactive at lower speeds.

All new Twingos provide connectivity through a new, smartphone-operated R & GO system that gives owners access to a variety of navigation, telephone, multimedia and trip computer functions as well as internet radio and a host of other practical features. Dynamique models offer the option of the R-Link multimedia system with a seven-inch touch-screen, voice control, TomTom^®navigation and 3D sound by Arkamys. DAB radio, Bluetooth^®connectivity and USB sockets are standard on every version.

The new Twingo will be commercially available in September of this year but you can pre-order one of the models now.

Source: Renault

August 19, 2014
New Ford F-150 features advanced technology and more

Every new car model strives to bring the best features and the latest technologies to the market in order to shine when compared against the competition. You can easily see newer, more powerful and more fuel-efficient engines, better equipment, improved handling and a bunch of other smart things that make your life a bit easier and a bit more enjoyable.

The new 2015 Ford F-150 is no different. While most of the tech specs of the vehicle are already known, there are a few more that have remained in the shadow and Ford wants to draw some more attention to them to make the new vehicle more appealing. For example the famous US company is proud to announce that the 2015 Ford F-150 comes with a new seamless sliding rear window design – a first for the brand.

The new technology, designed by Magna International, is unique because it hides window seams, which sets a new trend for power sliders by improving looks and functionality; at the same time the new approach reduces components and manufacturing complexity. The overall result is a smooth opening when viewed from outside.

“Delivering the latest in innovation and technology to our customer is a top priority for Ford,” said Noah Mass, Ford body mechanisms manager. “The seamless sliding rear window is another great example of the intricate detail that goes into producing the next-generation F-150, setting it apart from any pickup on the market today.”

Standard sliding rear windows typically contain three pieces of glass – left and right panes that don’t move plus the sliding portion in the middle, all held together by a support structure that requires numerous components. The seamless sliding rear window uses only two pieces of glass – the exterior surround and the sliding portion, reducing build componentry and complexity. The window’s opening is the same size as the outgoing design. In addition to its streamlined looks, the window’s two-piece design enables continuous uninterrupted defrost capability for the larger surrounding glass.

Perhaps the best part of the new technology implementation is that the new design helps save weight, because the seamless power slider uses a lighter window control module. All this results in lower fuel consumption, better acceleration, shorter stops, improved towing capacity and much more.

“We designed the seamless sliding rear window to deliver not only a new look and improved functionality, but also to start a trend in the truck sliding window market,” said Troy Tooker, design engineering manager for Magna International. “With pickup sliders being one of our core products, we wanted to show our leadership and raise the bar on the new F-150.”

Ford is also proud to announce that the new 2015 Ford F-150 is the company’s most capable, smartest and toughest F-150 ever. The vehicle uses more high-strength steel than ever and the military-grade aluminum used in the F-150 body improves dent and ding resistance and saves weight. In addition to that when the new F-150 arrives in stores it will have endured more than 10 million miles (16 million kilometers) of torture testing.

The new vehicle is based on a number of engines that includes an all-new 2.7-liter Ecoboost engine, another 3.5-liter Ecoboost engine, an all-new normally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 and an improved 5.0-liter V8 unit.

Source: Ford

August 14, 2014
Caterham Cars offers two new models to US customers

The British sports car maker Caterham Cars has unveiled two new versions of its iconic Seven, designed for the US market – the Seven 480 and Seven 360.

The creation of the two new models comes as a response to increased interest towards the brand on the US market and this is the reason why both models will go on sale immediately. Both Seven 480 and Seven 360 models are powered by two-liter Ford Duratec engines with the Seven 480 offering a bit more power. It can reach 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 3.4 seconds thanks to an engine that produces 237 bhp (240 HP/176 kW) of power. Top speed is 140 mph (225 km/h). The Seven 360 reaches 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in impressive 4.9 seconds thanks to an engine with 180 bhp (182 HP/134 kW) of power. Top speed is 130 mph (209 km/h).

The Caterham Seven was first created in England over 40 years ago and is now one of the most recognisable British sportscars. The Seven is famed for its distinctive, classic styling, lightweight structure and legendary performance and handling. Sevens are shipped to the USA in part-built form and sold as rolling chassis via Superformance’s nationwide dealer network for customers to then complete personally.

The Seven 360 can be yours for USD 44,900, while the Seven 480 starts at USD 52,900.

Source: Caterham Cars

August 13, 2014
2015 Ford Mustang comes with an advanced sound system

When you hear “Ford Mustang” you usually imagine a cool-looking, muscle sports car. If you do, you will not be mistaken – the Ford Mustang is indeed a muscle car but the latest 2015 model will come with something more – a really high quality sound system.

That’s right – the 2015 Ford Mustang will be treating your ears with great sound thanks to the installed audio systems, three of which will find their places in the vehicle. The new model can provide you with a standard six-speaker configuration, a premium nine-speaker system with an eight-inch touch screen and a 12-speaker ShakerPro system with a trunk-mounted subwoofer – the choice is yours!

“As our team developed this Mustang, the goal was to improve the car’s fidelity in every respect – from the way it slices through a corner to the way the audio system reproduces the sound of favorite driving songs,” said Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer. “The process of rebuilding this car from the ground up allowed us to improve all aspects of the driving experience.”

The installed sound system is not everything, though – the sound inside the Mustang is made better through the body of the car too. The new Mustang comes with a stronger body that is 28 per cent more resistant to twisting than the previous model, which results in less noise. The improved aerodynamics also aids the acoustic environment because it reduces wind noise, especially at highway speeds.

The speakers that the new 2015 Ford Mustang uses are mounted in the doors. The basic audio system configuration uses slimmer and lighter 6.5-inch door speakers that do not need as much travel to produce comparable audio volume, with higher-fidelity mid-range and bass sound. A pair of 6.5-inch round full-range speakers are mounted in the rear package tray of the fastback, or in the quarter panels in the convertible. The more expensive sound systems add a front center speaker mounted in the top of the instrument panel for improved vocal and speech clarity. These systems add a separate 8+1-channel amplifier, and use powerful neodymium magnet speakers to help reduce weight while improving overall sensitivity and sound reproduction. The mid-range nine-speaker system adds a second speaker to each door, separating the low and mid-range frequencies for improved fidelity. Apart from these the the top-end Shaker Pro system that is available on Mustang EcoBoost Premium and Mustang GT Premium brings 12 polymer cone speakers, with a pair of coaxial tweeter/woofers in the rear, plus a trunk-mounted subwoofer for maximum bass response.

Finally the new 2015 Ford Mustang is the first Ford vehicle to feature a high-power, 2.1-amp USB port in the media bin at the base of the center stack to charge various portable devices twice as fast as before.

Source: Ford Motor Company

August 13, 2014
2015 Mitsubishi Outlander named one of best back-to-school cars

The US Kelley Blue Book, an important source of automotive information and car prices, has named the Mitsubishi Motors North America Outlander Sport 5-passenger compact crossover/SUV one of the ten best back-to-school cars of 2014.

According to Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is “one of the most affordable crossovers you can buy” and is also “among the most stylish.” KBB.com further remarked that the Outlander Sport “balances a fun demeanor with the peace of mind of a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.”

The 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a perfect choice for novice drivers – the car comes with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive systems, a 5-speed manual or next-generation continuously-variable transmission (CVT) that mimics a precision 7-speed transmission, a new audio trim panel, next generation power steering, insulated materials for less noise and more.

Additional technology features include FUSE Hands-free Link System® with Bluetooth® hands-free phone operation and a plethora of standard safety features includes seven airbags, an anti-lock braking system with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist; Active Stability Control, Traction Control Logic, Hill Start Assist and Mitsubishi Motors’ patented Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) safety cell technology that helps to protect the vehicle’s occupants by deflecting energy away from the passenger compartment. The vehicle also offers fuel economy of US 32 mpg (7.35 liters per 100 km).

An additional nice feature is that the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport comes with a 5-year/60,000-mile fully-transferable new vehicle limited warranty; 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty; 7-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty; and 5-year/unlimited miles roadside assistance.

The new vehicle can be yours for just USD 19,595 (destination fee excluded).

Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America

August 13, 2014