Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • Audi reveals new RS 5 Sportback specifications!

    2019 Audi RS 5 SportsbackAudi team unveils new RS 5 Sportback. The latest addition to the sporty lineup comes with sub-four-second acceleration capabilities and fine-tuned Quattro-aided handling. Of course, all this is packed in a sexy coupe silhouette with tons of utility and technological gadgets. Let’s find out more, shall we?

    In terms of exterior, the upgraded RS 5 features large 20-inch alloys, fitting privacy glass, replacing aluminum-look exterior components and overall aggressive and yet appealing detailings. And as it comes to the interior, fine Nappa leather and Alcantara dominate the entire cabin, contrasted by diamond stitching. There are also Piano Black inlays and panoramic sunroof. Of course, in terms of equipment, Audi engineers remained generous – buyers will benefit from all-LED lightning, fully digital Audi Virtual Cockpit with RS-specific displays, Audi Smartphone Interface with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, MMI navigation and Audi Connect package. Sweet!

    In terms of drivetrain system, new Sportback provides turbochargers positioned between the six cylinder banks, eight-speed tiptronic gearbox and Quattro drive. As you might imagine, all these goodies are present with a single purpose – to aid the large engine in order to produce these massive 600Nm of torque and achieve 3.9 seconds run for the 100km/h run.

    SEE ALSO: Fiat reveals new 500X Urbana Edition upgrade. Check it out!

    Additionally, the five-link front and rear RS-specific suspension provides optimal operating conditions for the central differential-based Quattro system, distributing the drive forces in 40:60 front-to-rear ratio in favor of precise handling with optimal traction. And last, but most certainly not least, the Audi drive Select adapts the driving style of every driver and vehicle dynamics to every road situation. With the four selectable Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual, everything seems possible.

    2019 Audi RS 5 Sportsback

    Source: Audi 

  • Is It Possible to Train Drivers on Self-Driving Cars in An Augmented Reality Environment? Let’s Find Out

    2019-Autonomous-Cars-910Training drivers is not that easy, and it is more than enough to have you pulling your hair out while training them, unless you love to live on the edge for the adrenal rush or have a death wish.

    The most effective way to educate drivers, apart from driving around in one of these double steering or one with SANS steering cars with an extra braking system, is to use a virtual reality style, simulator, although a cruder version than say a plane simulator.

    What if we could quite possibly use augmented reality to educate our drivers, possibly using a robotic driving instructor, Freudian Slip, and before you believe I’m insane, allow me to provide you with some component information and facts as to my approach here, as there’s a little bit of method to my insanity, I believe.

    Google Seeks Partners for Its Autos

    As you might know, Joseph B. White published an attention-grabbing article in the Wall Street Journal, as he wrote somewhere: “Google is looking for Partners for Its Autos,” which explained that Google was in contact with all the major auto companies to find out if it might permit some of its most up-to-date self-driving vehicle technologies or have a partnership with them, a sensible decision indeed from my point of view.

    Let me ask you one thing, how about self-driving cars for efficient driver’s training, the vehicle would drive and the driver would steer and the car’s system would determine how close the braking, acceleration, and steering controls were used by the driver, against the specific risk-free driving of the particular self-driving system, as the controls would not be connected but would certainly be the best in augmented reality simulation ? Needless to say, you may already know, all the results from the driver’s performance could be saved in Google’s new cloud; Drive! Probably that is the reason why they’re naming it a drive; it is a test-drive for something bigger?

    Realistic Driving Simulators

    At some point, as enough data or video footage was taken, we could possibly make simulators so practical that it could knock back the jet-fighter emulators in reality.

    The automated system would log every little thing and give the student a fail or pass, or even a list of departments required improvement or points to study for the future? And as we have already done this, we could possibly use the identical system and approach for truckers, until all the commercial vehicles drive themselves, and for the student, autopilot training too. Without a doubt, I hope you’ll certainly think on it.

     SEE ALSO: Fiat reveals new 500X Urbana Edition upgrade. Check it out!

    Augmented Reality Dashboards

    At some point, GPS navigation technologies would have appeared a million miles away from any reliable atlas or map, however, today we’re much closer to create a full direction-finding program built into the dashboard or windscreen. This will certainly be shown through several types of glasses which will show several details to the driver immediately. This will not only show directional guidance but will certainly show the parking sensors, speedometer, fuel gauge, rev counter, and other features of the vehicle’s computer. Through touchscreen settings, drivers will certainly be able to command each and every aspect of their car from the display screen, such as radio, headlights, air conditioning, and windows. Probably the most advanced is the capability to focus on areas of the road so drivers can easily see barriers or obstacles up ahead more visibly. If used properly, this could possibly help to improve drivability but also keep passengers and the drivers safer.

    Fully Autonomous Cars

    Google is going to turn it into a reality within five years so we could possibly have driverless vehicles sooner than we expect. Although we have had things like self-parking cars, entirely driverless vehicles would transform the way we navigate the motorways and roads. On the other hand, we have seen a few initial issues; for example, Google’s effort for revolutionizing a driverless car can’t identify the difference between a litter a rock that has moved into the way and eventually tries to drive around both of them in the same manner.

  • Fiat reveals new 500X Urbana Edition upgrade.

    2019 Fiat 500X Urbana Edition - Front AngleFiat has revealed the long anticipated 2019 500X Urbana Edition, a custom-appearance package that adds neat wheels, LED lights, roof rails and sleek black-themed accents inside and out. Let’s check out, shall we?

    Exclusively manufactured in Italy, the new 2019 Fiat 500X comes with new standard-equipped 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with the latest and greatest version of MultiAir III valve-actuation technology, engine start-stop function and the best-in-class-torque (in brand’s own words). Furthermore, the machine is geared with an exclusive and fine-tuned 9-speed automatic transmission and an AWD system with a disconnecting rear axle.

    In addition, new FIAT crossover offers full LED headlamps, fog lamps and about 70 safety and security goodies that include adaptive cruise control and Front Park Assist.

    Based on the popular 500X Trekking model, Urbana Edition features Miron black-painted mirror caps, door handles, taillamp surrounds, liftgate bezel, fascias and a copper-accented 500X logo. The notable wheels are 18-inch matte black and Miron wheels are also accented by a copper central cap. Furthermore, the black side roof rails, full LED headlamps and all other exclusive goodies contribute to that sporty and aggressive expression.

    SEE ALSO: Mercedes announces details about the upcoming 2020 GLS 4MATIC machine

    And as it comes to interior, 500X Urbana Edition comes with sexy seats with black Castiglio chevron-patterned fabric and copper-embroidered 500 logos, a black-textured instrument panel and tons of additional features and components exclusive for this particular model.

    2019 Fiat 500X Urbana Edition - Side Angle

    Source: Fiat 

  • Why Only Two Vehicles Earned the 2019 IIHS Top Safety Pick+

    2019-IIHS-Ranks-910Collision avoidance vehicle technology reduces the rates of injury crashes by 21 percent, according to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Choosing a vehicle with adequate security features could save your life. But with every carmaker touting the safety features of their vehicle, finding a vehicle that stands out can be a daunting task. The IIHS, one of America’s top authorities on car safety, identifies vehicles with remarkable safety features and honors them with a Top Safety Pick+ Award. For the 2019 model year, although a total of 30 vehicles got the prestigious award, only two are available to ordinary buyers.

    The IIHS and Safety

    A total of 57 vehicles earned the 2019 safety award, with just 30 notching the top 2019 Top Safety Pick+ award. The IIHS uses strict criteria to gauge a vehicle’s safety features. All the 57 vehicles that earned an award passed crashworthiness tests and were required to have superior automatic emergency braking systems. The Top Safety Pick+ honoree must have “good” headlights in addition to the other features required for the Top Safety Pick award. Choosing a vehicle with safety features is a good first step in staying safe on the road. Drivers also need to maintain safe driving habits to reduce the chances of accidents. However, should you be involved in an accident, an auto insurance policy can help to cover hospital bills in case of injury arising from an auto accident.

    2019 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Winners

    The list of 2019 Top Safety Pick+ winners contains a diverse array of vehicles but is it is dominated by vehicles by Japanese and Korean carmakers. In fact, only one vehicle made by a U.S. automaker, the Chrysler Pacifica, made it to the Top Safety Pick list. All seven popular Subaru models made this year’s list as did the Kia Optima, Toyota Camry, Lexus ES, and the Hyundai Elantra. Large vehicles on the list include the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Acura RDX, BMW X3, Toyota Avalon, and Hyundai Santa Fe.

    Identifying the True Winners

    However, mentioning that 30 vehicles made the cut for the Top Safety Pick+ is a bit misleading since IIHS was forced to use vehicle trims with optional upgrades for most of the vehicles on the list to qualify for the award. Most entry-level trims would not get the award mostly because of inferior headlights. An analysis of the 2019 Top Safety Pick+ award winners reveals that only two vehicles earn the award regardless of trim and without the need to buy optional equipment: the Honda Insight and the luxury Genesis G90.

    Safety weighs on many car buyers’ minds when shopping for a vehicle and the IIHS attempts to identify the vehicles that stand out in this department. However, although 30 vehicles received the organization’s prestigious 2019 Top Safety Pick+ award, only two would qualify for the award without buying an expensive trim or fitting optional upgrades. Therefore, although the IIHS safety award can point buyers in the right direction, you should examine the fine print to identify the vehicles that really have the features you want.

  • Mercedes announces details about the upcoming 2020 GLS 4MATIC machine

    2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 4MATICAll-new GLS has raised the bar one more time by presenting the latest SUV in the lineup. The so-called S-Class among SUVs, the GLS is surely expanding and improving itself. Let’s check out what this bad boy has for us, shall we?

    Offered with a 6-seat option configuration and larger dimensions, the latest addition to the lineup also features a revised 3.0-liter Inline-6 Turbo engine with EQ Boost and tons of additional engineering changes and upgrades.

    The new GLS benefits from sexy interior design, which includes a new-gen steering wheel with Touch Control Buttons, two grab handles and a widescreen dual display with 12.3-inch Digital Instrument Cluster. Optionally, customers can specify their own machine with a Premium Package, which includes Blind Spot Assist, Smartphone Integration, Navigation, SIRIUS XM Satellite Radio keyless-go function. The second upgrade pack comes with Active LED Headlamps and Adaptive High Beam Assist, while the Parking Assist Package grants buyers with Active Parking Assist and Surround View Camera.

    All along with the handy goodies, Mercedes team has included the so-called Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) function, which, as it seems, plays the role of a game changer. It introduces intelligent Voice Control and Natural Language Understanding and Interior Assistant.

    SEE ALSO: McLaren reveals new upgrade pack for the entire Sport Series lineup!

    And as it comes to drivetrain system, new GLE comes with a groundbraking intelligent chassis and a revised version of the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension technology. Additional goodies include 4MATIC system and Integrated Starter Generator. The engine provides a total of 362hp and 369lb-ft of torque, with a massive 184lb-ft of torque and 21hp boost.

    2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS 4MATIC

    Neat!

    Source: Mercedes-Benz 

  • VW T-Cross lineup becomes even more efficient. Here’s how!

    2019 Volkswagen T-CrossThe latest Volkswagen SUV T-Cross can now be specified with the Euro 6 compliant 95hp 1.6-liter TDI powerplant. Although the lineup features one of the most efficient and economic engines, the latest addition raises the bar even higher with its 52.9mpg.

    The 95hp four-cylinder 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine also features the highest torque peak in T-Cross range, measured at 250Nm, at the 1500-2500rpm rev range. Furthermore, customers will be able to choose between a five-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG gearbox system. The engine ensures 11.9 seconds 0-100km/h runs and smooth and responsive acceleration process.

    Practically-focused, T-Cross is one of these VW models that blends practicality with comfort. Fitted with a raft of practicality-boosting features, the SUV offers a sliding rear bench, which ensures tons of legroom and boot space. Safety equipment include Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist feature.

    SEE ALSO: 2019 Mazda6 receives the highest LATCH rating from IIHS!

    Trying to blend the best of both worlds, T-Cross lineup surely manages to gather tons of fans with its agile performance capabilities and its functional utility gadgets. Cozy and functional, the cabin not only ensures plenty of space for everyone, but also gives access to advanced gadgets and goodies that altogether make the ride even more pleasurable.

    Sweet!

    Source: Volkswagen 

     

  • 2019 Mazda6 receives the highest LATCH rating from IIHS!

    2019 Mazda6The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) announced that new 2019 Mazda6 has earned the highest possible rating in the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) ease-of-use ratings. This system is intended to make child restraint installation easier in order to minimize errors and enhance the protection of youngsters in the event of a crash.

    In order to qualify for the award, a machine must provide additional LATCH-equipped seating positions and cover all the following requirements: the lower anchors should be easy to maneuver, the force required to attach should be less than 40 pounds, tether anchors are on vehicle’s rear deck or in the middle of the seatback.

    Mazda6 continues the tradition to offer an outstanding set of safety features that altogether with the LATCH rating redefine the idea of automobile safety. New family member comes with i-Activesense safety features, which include Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep-Assist, Smart Brake Support and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop and go function.

    SEE ALSO: Kia Stinger takes home Top Safety Pick Plus award!

    It is always cool to see how a premium brand like Mazda continues to deliver us unique features and technologies in order to remain one of the leaders in the automobile industry. And with all these recognitions and awards, it is completely safe to say that the manufacturer is one of the few that continues to develop new solutions even by being one of the most reliable today.

    Source: Mazda 

  • Kia Stinger takes home Top Safety Pick Plus award!

    2019 Kia Stinger The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded its best participants with Top Safety Pick Plus award. The winner of the event is 2019 Kia Stringer fastback sedan when geared with the optional Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Pedestrian Detection. The award raises the total number of Kia models with similar recognition to 10. Sweet!

    In order to qualify for TSP+ award, a vehicle must earn Good ratings in six tests: driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint – as well as an Advanced or Superior rating for front crash prevention and a Good headlight rating. The Stinger has managed to earn Good ratings for all six crashworthiness tests, and a Superior rating for the optional front crash prevention system, which helped it avoid collisions in the IIHS’s 12-mph and 25-mph track tests. The Good rating for the headlights applies to the Stinger’s static LED projector headlights.

    SEE ALSO: JMS team tweaks a lucku Audi A6. Check it out!

    Stinger is also the first Kia machine to introduce two new available technologies to the Kia Drive Wise suite: Driver Attention Warning and Lane Keeping Assist. Driver Attention Warning is created in order to aid distracted and drowsy driving by inputs that will engage a sound signal when necessary. The Lane Keeping Assist is created in such a way that it would detect and monitor machine’s intended lane and alert driver for maintaining vehicle’s correct position.

    Source: Kia 

  • JMS team tweaks a lucku Audi A6. Check it out!

    2019 JMS Audi A6The current generation of Audi A6, the C8 series, came to the market a year ago and since then it remains one of the most advanced and popular machines in its class. However, engineers at JMS Fahrzeugteile have proven one more time that even the most advanced machines can udergo a notable upgrade procedure.

    The upgrade includes an exclusive line spoiler lip, fitted beneath the front spoiler. Especially created to be used with this particular Audi model, the wing is fitted beneath the front spoiler and contributes to this sexy and aggressive appearance. Of course, it does contribute to the overall aerodynamic and stability features of the vehicle – more confident cornering and high-speed handling is guaranteed!

    And in order to complete the overall sexy appearance, JMS team has included a set of Tzunamee EVO wheels. These are 9×20-inch rims with dark gunmetal brushed finish and are accompanied by a fine-tuned KW Variant 3 coilover suspension system.

    SEE ALSO: McLaren reveals new upgrade pack for the entire Sport Series lineup!

    It is definitely a cool thing to see how a tuning studio precisely knows how to make an outstanding machine even more appealing. What is cool about this project is that it simply builds upon the strong original foundation and doesn’t change what is already achieved – the Audi machine is super sexy by itself and it would be a waste to modify it in such a way that it no longer features these notable and expresJMsive lines and curves.

    Enjoy!

  • McLaren reveals new upgrade pack for the entire Sport Series lineup!

    2019 McLaren High Downforce KitA High Downforce Kit (HDK) offers a significant visual and aerodynamic upgrade for all McLaren Sports Series machines. Designed exclusively by McLaren Special Operations for 570S Coupe and 570S Spider, the HDK upgrade comprises a rear wing and underfloor guide vanes for a better direct airflow, dynamics and overall sexy appearance.

    Fitment of the HDK delivers additional 165lbs of downforce, which further enhances stability in cornering and brings additional confidence in terms of handling at all speeds.

    In terms of visual expression, the upgrade does contribute to this neat aggressive and sporty spirit of the vehicle. The rear wing is distinctive and covered with glossy black aluminum pylons with contrasting Palladium Grey inlays. The endplate inserts are also covered in Palladium Grey with silver chromatic MSO logos under the lacquer top coat.

    2019 McLaren High Downforce Kit

    SEE ALSO: Bentley team announces tech specs about upcoming 2019 Flying Spur!

    Constructed from carbon fiber, this is definitely a neat addition to the overall sexy and super agile Mclaren lineup of monsters!

    Definitely approached with style, the HDK upgrade surely deserves some attention – both in terms of technological advancement and aesthetics. It still amazes us how McLaren team continues to create such engineering solutions that not only improve vehicles’ performance capabilities, but also contributes to the overall advancement of engineering technology and solutions!

    2019 McLaren High Downforce Kit

    Source: McLaren 

  • Mitsubishi team proudly announces new L200 Challenger machine!

    2019 Mitsubishi L200 Challenger - Front AngleMitsubishi L200 Challenger is the latest and greatest model in the heavy-duty lineup. Already available to order, the machine goes on sale this autumn.

    Based on the popular Mitsubishi L200 Warrior, the new Challenger comes with three colors – white, grey and black and features neat black 17-inch alloy wheels and bespoke black detailing for the grille, front bumper, front fog lamps, wheel arch extensions, side steps, door mirrors, door handles and rear bumper.

    In terms of interior, Mitsubishi L200 Challenger comes with matching black leather interior, seven-inch Smartphone Link Display Audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone incorporation, DAB radio and integrated reversing camera.

    Additional standard features include keyless operation, bi-xenon headlamps, LED DRLs, dual-zone climate control, lane departure warning, hill start assist and trailer stability assistance.

    SEE ALSO: Kia shares first image of upcoming 2019 XCeed SUV!

    And as it comes to drivetrain system, L200 Challenger utilizes the proven Super-Select 4WD system, which allows users to change from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive at speeds of up to 100km/h. Powered by Mitsubishi’s trustworthy 180hp, 430Nm 2.4-liter turbo diesel engine, coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox, L200 Challenger is capable of towing up to 3.5 tonnes and has a payload of one tonne, which still classifies it as a commercial vehicle.

    2019 Mitsubishi L200 Challenger - Rear Angle

    Source: Mitsubishi Motors 

  • Kia shares first image of upcoming 2019 XCeed SUV!

    2019 Kia XCeed Kia Motors has released the first image of the all-new XCeed urban crossover. The vehicle is scheduled to be fully revealed later in June 2019 and until then we are left with a single photo of the vehicle.

    What we know so far is that the super sexy and coupe-like appearance of the XCeed is a product of brand’s European design centre in Frankfurt, Germany and it was designed by Gregory Guillaume, Vice President of Design for Kia Motors Europe. The blend of ride height and lower hip point do contribute to a sporty expression and driving position, while the classic SUV features ensure safe, pleasurable and overall satisfactory driving experience.

    Definitely the more emotional and dynamic styling would bring more enthusiasts and buyers. As for drivetrain system and interior features, we don’t have a clue what they would be like, but we are pretty sure that the sexy exterior concept will be accompanied by such striking features and goodies.

    SEE ALSO: DTE Systems applies PowerControl X to a lucky Skoda Scala!

    All-new Kia XCeed will be fully revealed on 26 June. Additional specifications and pricing will be confirmed due upcoming press releases and official claims by Kia Motors team.

    Until then, stick with us for news, comments, additional photos and more news from Kia!

    Cheers!

    Source: Kia Motors