Automobiles Review

Author: autoview

  • VW offers Modular Transverse Matrix on the Golf and Golf GTI

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    Volkswagen fans that live in the United States will be treated with the so-called Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB in short in German) technology given they choose to purchase one of the all-new VW Golf or Golf GTI now. According to Dr. Hubertus Lemke, Head of Technical Project Management in Volkswagen’s Research & Development Division, the MQB strategy represents a milestone in the design and production of future automobiles with transverse-mounted engines.

    Modular Transverse Matrix may sound complicated but this technology standardizes many vehicle component parameters across various vehicle classes, starting with sub-compact cars and going through mid-size SUV segments. Later the technology will be used in the Jetta, Passat and upcoming VW mid-sized SUVs, which means that at least in theory, these models, including the Golf and Golf GTI may be produced on the same assembly line.

    One of the prominent characteristics of the Modular Transverse Matrix is the uniform mounting position of all engines, including the new modular diesel engine system (MDB), also known as EA288. The standardized engine position, combined with implementation of the EA288 TDI Clean Diesel engine and the new EA211 gasoline engine, will reduce the Group’s engine and gearbox variants by approximately 90 percent. MQB also enables fitment of all current alternative drive concepts without compromise — from compressed natural gas and hybrid versions to a pure electric powertrain. The e-Golf that goes on sale in the last quarter of 2014 in the U.S. uses the MQB architecture as well and is built on the same line in Wolfsburg as other Golf versions.

    In the long run MQB will present Volkswagen Group with new opportunities, including the possibility to produce high-volume and niche models of the highest quality at competitive prices as the technology gets introduced globally. In addition MQB will allow VW to tailor vehicles for different and diverse markets that include Europe, China, India, USA and others. One of the positive effects of MQB is that the new Golf and Golf GTI now come with the new Automatic Post-Collision Braking System – after an initial collision, it helps to reduce the intensity of secondary collisions by automatically applying the brakes. It is now standard equipment on the new Golf and Golf GTI.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Mercedes-Benz debuts the all new S 600 Guard armored vehicle

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    Mercedes-Benz has added a new model to its line of special protection models, this time coming to us as the S 600 Guard. The new car provides all-round protection that covers the VR9 resistance class but at the same time keeps the level of comfort to the traditionally high Mercedes-Benz level. There’s also a powerful V12 gasoline engine, intelligent driver assistance systems and an outstanding AIRMATIC suspension that will provide you with everything you need when it comes to travelling while having excellent protection.

    The new S 600 Guard comes with integrated protection that follows the many years of experience that Mercedes-Benz has been through and obtained. The vehicle comes with extra strength and stability thanks to specific reinforcement of the base structure and there is intelligent overlapping and sophisticated integration of all protective elements for continued high level of comfort. The glass areas are coated with polycarbonate on the inside for splinter protection and thanks to their laminated structure, they have outstanding visual characteristics. Thus the new S 600 Guard provides the passengers inside with ballistic protection and protection against explosive devices and not only meets the strict VR9 requirements but also conforms to all requirements imposed by the ERV2010 protection standard.

    Visually on the outside the S 600 Guard does not differ from the regular S 600 version. On the inside it keeps the luxury expected from an S 600 Mercedes-Benz car and adds space. For the first time and as the only car in this segment the new S 600 Guard can be purchased as a 4-seater and as a fully-fledged 5-seater. The vehicle is powered by a mighty V12 gasoline engine that offers 530 horsepower (390 kW) and 830 Nm (612 lb.-ft.) of torque and the so-called 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission. Thanks to the technologies implemented inside the engine and the gearbox the new Mercedes-Benz vehicle offers low fuel consumption and impressive acceleration. The top speed is limited to 130 mph (209 km/h), though, due to weight reasons.

    The new S 600 Guard offers a number of innovations that increase the traditional comfort found in these cars. The AIRMATIC air suspension ensures excellent ride comfort and great drive dynamics. Reinforced, re-dimensioned suspension components and adapted control functions such as ESP or ASR cope with the increased vehicle weight. The air springs at the front are reinforced, for example, and additional steel springs are used at the rear axle. As in the unarmored S-Class, all-round level control also maintains a constant vehicle level irrespective of the payload in the S‑Guard. In the S 600 Guard it also compensates the reduced ground clearance caused by the underbody armor. Standard equipment on the S 600 Guard includes Michelin PAX run-flat tires with an additional tire pressure monitoring system which allows an escape from the danger zone up to a distance of 19 miles (30 km) even with damaged tires. In addition the S 600 Guard comes equipped with intelligent drive systems that include Driver Assistance package PLUS – this includes the assistance systems DISTRONIC PLUS with Stop&Go Pilot, BAS PLUS Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian recognition and ESP®, an electric parking brake, Night View Assist Plus, LED Intelligent Light System and a 360-degree camera.

    Mercedes-Benz did not share the price of the new S 600 Guard, though, but as you know, it will cost a ton of cash for sure.

    2015 Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard
    2015 Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard
    2015 Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Bonhams to show ultra-rare Ferrari 250 GTO

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    The UK auction house Bonhams will preview an example of perhaps the most famous and sought-after classic race car ever – the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO. The event will take place at the Monterey Pre-Reunion on August 9 and August 10. The classic race car, of which only 39 were constructed, will be shown in the Bonhams hospitality area at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca where the historic car racing is taking place.

    The Ferrari in question carries the chassis number 3851GT and comes from the Maranello Rosso Collection and has been owned by one family for 49 years. Bonhams will sell the car and nine other Ferraris from the collection at its Bonhams Quail Lodge Auction on August 14.

    “Collectors around the world are eagerly awaiting auction day to see what the market will command for such a historically significant and rarely available automobile,” said Mark Osborne, head of motoring for Bonhams in the U.S. “There is no reserve on this car, meaning that it will be sold to the highest bidder regardless of what that bid is. And what better way to showcase it than in front of racers and collectors who are at the Monterey Pre-Reunion.”

    The Ferrari in question is the 19th Ferrari GTO to be completed but given that two of the preceding examples are 330 GTOs with 4-litre engines instead of the GT-homologated 3-litre “250” units this Ferrari may be regarded as the 17th Ferrari 250 GTO. It was collected by its first owner, the experienced and rugged 34-year-old French privateer Jo Schlesser, who immediately entered it in the 1962 Tour de France Automobile, with co-driver French skiing champion Henri Oreiller. The duo covered 3418 miles and finished second overall.

    The Monterey Pre-Reunion is the first event of the Monterey Classic Car Week that also includes the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (August 14-17), Quail Motorsports Gathering (August 15) and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance (August 17). Admission to the Monterey Pre-Reunion on August 9 and August 10 costs USD 20 at the paddock entrance of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

    Source: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

  • Hyundai Motor describes new i20 model

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    The Korean automaker Hyundai Motor has unveiled the first design pictures of the upcoming new i20 model. According to the company the new version of Hyundai’s popular B-segment model comes with the brand’s “Fluidic Sculpture 2.0” design philosophy and sports a sophisticated and distinctive design.

    The long hood and generous shape create a powerful stance for New Generation i20. The body sides are sculpted yet the overall architecture is clear and simple, with the cabin sitting cleanly on the body. In profile, the dark treatment of the C-pillar visually accentuates the car’s length.

    New-Hyundai-i20-rear_651

    The front presents a bold new interpretation of the well-established Hyundai hexagonal grille and there’s a new thin horizontal strip that connects the headlamps. At the back, the wrap-around rear window and unique treatment for the lamp clusters combine with the car’s hatchback proportions to create a distinctive design.

    The new i20 has been designed at the Hyundai design center, located in Rüsselsheim, Germany. The car will debut at the 2014 Mondial de l’Automobile, which will be held in October 2014 in Paris, France.

    Source: Hyundai

  • 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer named “Top Safety Pick”

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    Owners of the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan have a new reason to be happy with their cars – the US Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named the car “Top Safety Pick”. The Ralliart and Evolution models are not covered by this award, though.

    To name the 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan “Top Safety Pick”, the IIHS used a total of twelve “small cars” for the so-called small overlap front crash test that has 25 per cent of the vehicle’s frontal area on the driver’s side impact a barrier at 40 mph (64 km/h). Introduced in 2012, the small overlap front crash test “replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle collides with another vehicle or an object such as a tree or utility pole,” according to the IIHS. Half of the vehicles evaluated achieved non-passing grades of “marginal” or “poor”; the IIHS requires that a vehicle earn a grade of “good” or “acceptable” to pass the test.

    “It is great to see our very popular Mitsubishi Lancer once again named as a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety,” said Don Swearingen, Executive Vice President of MMNA. “Lancer is a versatile compact sports sedan that has an exceptional degree of safety, excellent fuel economy, sporty performance and plentiful standard features all at price to fit almost any budget.”

    What’s even better for the Mitsubishi brand and people who consider buying a Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan is that the “Top Safety Pick” designation is applicable to the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer compact sports sedan. The new car improves on previous models by including heated side view mirrors with turn indicators (standard on all models); an advanced next-generation continuously-variable transmission (CVT) that mimics the operation of a precision 7-speed transmission (standard on SE AWC model and available on other versions); and expanded new standard features including redesigned 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels, FUSE Hands-Free Link System with USB port, high contrast meters with color multi-information display, chrome interior door handles, soft-touch upper door trim, 6-speaker audio system, fog lights, and Sport front fascia with color-keyed center bumper (SE AWC model). New available content packages for the 2015 Lancer include a feature-rich Value Package (ES model) and Sun and Sound Package (GT model).

    You can have the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer in four different models – the Lancer ES comes with loads of features and sells for USD 17 195 (fuel economy of up to 34 mpg/6.92 liters per 100 km); the Lancer SE AWC comes with a standard all-wheel control all-wheel drive system (USD 20 995); the luxurious Lancer GT sells for USD 20 595, while the turbocharged Lancer Ralliart with a sure-footed Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system and an available rapid-fire 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission sells for USD 29 495.

    Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America

  • 2018 Audi A9 Concept By Daniel Garcia

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    The new Audi A9 which is coming in 2018 is planned to be the most luxurious and at the same time the most expensive model that the company has ever created. The concept is designed by Spanish designer – Daniel Garcia. It is going to be something you’ve never seen before and it will take the game to a completely new level.

    The model will follow the basic lines of the current Audi Sportback, but at the same time it will use the modular building block platform (MSB) used in models of Bentley, Lamborghini and Porsche in a way the audience has never expected.

    The A9 is equipped with a one-piece roof and windscreen, both made of nanotechnology materials creating the typical bold and innovatory outlook of the series. We are expecting professional details like original leather seats, wooden insertions and a brand new upgraded technology. The exterior and interior are described as a masterpiece of the modern age.

    The driver will be able to change the opacity and the color of the vehicle with a single push of a button thanks to the nanotechnology embraced in the new A9. As you may already suggested it will be more than well equipped with the latest gadgets, high quality materials and perhaps an internal-combustion engine accompanied with four electric motors.

    The new Audi offspring will be a bit naughtier by using a 3.0-liter TFSI engine and a V8 engine with a full power output of 500 horsepower. An option with a hybrid powertrain will be available as well. It will consist of a gasoline engine and an electric motor generating around 500 horsepower.

    There are rumors that the A9 will offer both four-wheel and rear-wheel, but the possible transmission stays a mystery. The basic model will be launched in 2015, but in the process of development will be launched many more versions of A9.

    The debut should be by the end of next year, and model will most probably be released during 2016. A coupe and convertible variants will cost around $100,000, while the sedan is raising the bar to $150,000.

    2014 Audi A9
    2014 Audi A9
    2014 Audi A9
    2014 Audi A9
    2014 Audi A9
    2014 Audi A9
    2014 Audi A9
    2014 Audi A9
    2014 Audi A9

    Source : Daniel Garcia Design via Facebook

  • New Land Rover Discovery Sport Gets Third Row Seating

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    After the debut of the new camouflage wrap we now know for sure that Discovery Sport, the new compact SUV by Land Rover, should arrive as standard or 5 plus 2 seats in the UK.

    Land Rover has released a new video and images of a test Discovery Sport vehicle, giving us more insight. We can see that the SUV will actually have two seats in the third row, confirming that the company is trying to appeal more to families in the compact SUV class.

    A few prototypes with the new design have been noticed leaving Halewood, UK , the place where the new Discovery Sport is said to be manufactured. According to sources the vehicles are on their way across the world for a final stage of tests before they get to the production lines.

    “As you would expect from a Discovery, the versatile Discovery Sport will feature  5+2 seating in the UK, offering spacious load space and configurable seating, while still retaining a more compact footprint than traditional 5-seat SUVs,” added Gerry McGovern, Design Director and Chief Creative Officer for Land Rover.

    The new Discovery Sport is expected to be powered by a variety of petrol and diesel four-cylinder engines. The British company has previously announced that the first mass production engine will be a turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel.

    The New Discovery Sport compact SUV will go on sale in 2015.

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    Source : Land Rover

  • Nissan Note Presents Two Nismo Versions

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    Nissan has unveiled two grades for the new Note Nismo : the standard model and the Note Nismo S. At first, Nissan plans to release the Nismo models at the Japanese market this autumn.

    The stylish hatchback comes with some upgrades and new tricks for the exterior. The Japanese manufacturer emphasized the sports appearance by adding red hues for the mirrors caps, side skirts and front splitter.

    The sport package also includes updated tires, a special 10-spoke alloy wheels with black inserts, improved front and rear bumpers, new front grille, updated side sills and a roof spoiler.

    Nissan has also updated the powertrain, the chassis and the suspension, which are all based on Nismo’s experience in motorsports that offers high performance with perfect balance. The new Nismo S comes with a specially-tuned engine connected to a 5-speed manual gearbox.

    “The development concept of this model was to build a car that makes you want to keep driving, no matter where your destination may be. Nismo is confident that the Note Nismo will enhance your driving experience; it offers top level performance in a compact package,”said the Nismo’s Chief Product Specialist Hiroshi Tamura.

    Inside, the new Note Nismo offers sport seats made with red side and seat bolsters, and a Recaro seats as option for the Nismo S.

    “Celebrating Nismo’s 30th anniversary, we are planning to expand the number of models available in our road-car lineup. The Note Nismo we introduced today is truly symbolic to the Nismo brand in that it represents the fusion between motorsports that’s embedded in Nismo’s DNA and the success of the Note as a mass production vehicle. Nismo strives to offer a whole new experience of excitement. We are hoping that the Note Nismo will enable us to spread the spirit of Nismo to new consumers and adds to our existing customer base,” added the Nissan Motorsports International (NISMO) President and CEO Shoichi Miyatani.

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    Source : Nissan

  • 2015 Kia Sorento – First Sketches

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    Kia has unveiled the first sketches of the next generation model of Sorento. As we can see the upcoming model is completely redesigned.

    Compared with the previous version, it’s looks sportier and round shaped. In fact the new 2015 Kia Sorento will ride on the same platform as the new Kia Carnival, which is equipped with an all-wheel-drive system. The new model comes with more aggressive vision : new front bumper and grille, Led daytime lights, new spoiler mounted on the roof, modified diffuser and a dual exhaust system.

    There are some different options in the engine range : a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo, a 3.3-liter GDI V6 and a 2.2-liter CRDI diesel engine for the European market.In fact, the 2.2-liter diesel already exists on the previous version.

    Inside, the interior will be completely new and flexible and will be entirely consistent with the sports vision of the vehicle. It will offer more legroom and more headroom, an option with three rows of seats and more luggage space.

    The South Korean producers announced that the new 2015 Kia Sorento will be officially debuted at the 2014 Paris Motor Show in October. The US consumers will be able to see the new SUV officially at the Los Angeles Auto Show just a month later.

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    Source : Kia World

  • Volkswagen recalls certain Golf vehicles

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    The US branch of Volkswagen has issued a voluntary safety recall that affects the front stabilizer rods on certain 2015 model year Golf GTI and Golf vehicles.

    The number of affected cars reaches 2001, all from model year 2015. The problem with these vehicles is that the fasteners that secure the front stabilizer rods may become loose over time. In such an event drivers will experience considerable noise that comes from the front of the vehicle. In certain, but rare, cases this malfunction may lead to the rod detaching and interfering with the vehicle’s steering, which will lead to increased steering effort. Unfortunately in certain cases this may lead to vehicle crashes and potential injuries, including death.

    Volkswagen has announced that it will replace the front stabilizer rods on all affected vehicles. The good news is that no accidents or injuries have been reported so far. You do not have to check your car – Volkswagen will notify all owners of affected vehicles and will instruct them where to find a VW dealer and schedule an appointment to get the problem fixed.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • BMW unveils fast chargers and more

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    At the on-going Plug-In 2014, a conference dedicated to the future of electric vehicles, BMW of North America unveiled the brand new i DC Fast Chargers that can charge the BMW i3 electric vehicle up to 80 per cent in 30 minutes. Speed is not the only advantage of the new BMW product – the i DC Fast Chargers are the first compact and affordable DC Combo chargers. In addition to this BMW also announced its new ChargeNow DC Fast program in cooperation with NRG eVgo, in which BMW i3 drivers in California can enjoy no cost unlimited 30 minute DC fast charging, at NRG eVgo Freedom Station sites equipped with DC Combo Fast Charging, through 2015.

    Unlike regular DC fast chargers that are usually as large as a standard refrigerator the new BMW chargers measure just 31 x 19 x 12 inches and weigh approximately 100 pounds. This means that you can install your i DC Fast Charger on a wall, which is a first for electric car DC fast chargers. In addition the i DC Fast Charger will be significantly cheaper than other DC chargers selling for USD 6548 at select BMW dealers.

    “This is a milestone in the development of the DC fast charging infrastructure. With more than five years of real world experience, we understand that a robust network of publicly available DC Combo Fast Chargers is a key part of the mobility of tomorrow,” said Robert Healey, EV Infrastructure Manager, at BMW of North America. “BMW is offering the BMW i DC Fast Charger at an appealing price point, and more manageable size, to make the convenience of DC fast charging more accessible for BMW i3 owners.”

    The new BMW i DC Fast Charger comes with 24 kW of power and can feed the vehicle battery directly, which results in more efficient and faster charging. BMW i DC Fast Chargers use the SAE Combo 1 connector, the North American automotive industry standard for fast charging; feature a rugged aluminum IP54 enclosure; meet NEMA 3 requirements; and are designed to perform in extreme weather conditions, from -40°F (-40°C) to 185°F (85°C). Additionally, the BMW i DC Fast Charger is ChargePoint network-enabled, allowing electric vehicle drivers with the SAE Combo 1 inlet to access the BMW i DC Fast Charger using a ChargePoint or ChargeNow card.

    The new ChargeNow program gives BMW i3 drivers access to unlimited 30-minute DC fast charging sessions with the ChargeNow DC Fast program. BMW i3 owners can sign up easily for ChargeNow DC Fast at chargenow.com/us. In order to receive the full benefits of the program, BMW i3 drivers must use the ChargeNow card, provided with their BMW i3, to charge the vehicle at least once by December 31, 2014, at a participating eVgo Freedom Station. By doing so, BMW i3 drivers will enjoy continued access to no cost DC charging sessions through the end of 2015. Eligible BMW i3 vehicles must be equipped with the DC Fast Charging option (SAE).

    Source: BMW

  • Brand New Smart Fortwo and Forfour – pictures and details

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    Smart has introduced the all-new ForTwo and ForFour at a special ceremony in Berlin, Germany. The small city cars were finally revealed after a long teaser campaign. Both of them boast a completely new exterior compared to the predecessor and resemble to Toyota iQ a lot.

    The exterior of the 2015 Smart ForTwo/ForFour boasts a new front fascia with a honeycomb grille. It is flanked by a bigger headlights coming with integrated DRLs (daytime running lights). There is a higher rear bonnet and a bold overall stance. Last, but not least is the contrasting Tridion safety cell. The dimensions measure 2,690 mm in length, 1,660 mm in width and 1,550 mm in height with a wheelbase of 1,873 mm – ForTwo, while the ForFour is slightly longer – 3,490 mm with a wheelbase of 2494 mm. the luggage compartment is 185 liter with rear seats up and 975 liters, when folded down.

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    There are three trim levels and the standard equipment includes: LED DRLs, central locking with radio remote control, visual locking-verification signal and immobilizer, cruise control with limiter (variable speed limitation), exterior temperature indicator with frost warning, instrument cluster with monochrome LCD display and trip computer and electric windows in the front and others. Both models are equipped with an automatic start/stop system.

    The engine range includes a 1.0 liter naturally aspirated petrol – 71HP (52 kW) and 91Nm (67 lb-ft) of torque. There is also a 0.9 liter turbocharged petrol with 90HP (66 kW) and 135Nm (100 lb-ft). There will be also a “basic petrol engine” delivering just 60HP (45 kW). The gearbox variants include: 5-speed manual or a twinamic 6-speed dual clutch automatic.

    The official pricing is not announced, yet.

    2015 Smart Fortwo and Forfour
    2015 Smart Fortwo and Forfour
    2015 Smart Fortwo and Forfour
    2015 Smart Fortwo and Forfour
    2015 Smart Fortwo and Forfour
    2015 Smart Fortwo and Forfour
    2015 Smart Fortwo and Forfour
    2015 Smart Fortwo and Forfour

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlGmvLLMnLs

    Source : Daimler