Category: Auto News

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

  • Lexus team reveals stunning new concept at 2019 EyesOn Design Award event

    2019 Lexus LC Convertible Concept Lexus proudly unveils new concept machine. It is called LC Convertible and comes with tons of sexy design tweaks and numerous technical features that do make a difference. Furthermore, the vehicle has already won the 2019 EyesOn Design Award in Design Excellence category at the 2019 North American International Auto Show.

    The event itself, EyesOn Design Awards is an official design award show for NAIAS and honors the best production and concept machines that make their worldwide auto show debut at NAISAS. A team of leaders that represent worldwide automotive manufacturers and transportation design chiefs from top design schools around the globe vote for the best in the segment machine and altogether announce the winner.

    SEE ALSO: Mercedes announced details and pricing for new 2019 A-Class lineup

    But let’s get back to the vehicle, shall we? Designed by Lexus Design Division in Toyota City, Japan, the LC Convertible concept incorporates authentic Japanese aesthetics with modern-day utilities. The design is truly beautiful and appealing from every angle and showcases machine’s sporty and muscular appearance. Sexy in every way, LC Convertible serves as an aspirational halo vehicle for the entire Lexus lineup. Also, in order to enhance the stunning effect of the exterior, designers have used exterior lightning in order to ensure aesthetically beautiful and functional presentation.

    Source: Lexus 

  • Mercedes announced details and pricing for new 2019 A-Class lineup

    2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class Mercedes-Benz USA announced pricing for the all-new 2019 A-Class Sedan. For the first time in brand’s history, details will be announced simultaneously on all USA social channels. Furthermore, there will be a special 24-hour countdown posted to Instagram that would mark the moment when MSRP is revealed.

    The vehicle itself introduces a new infotainment system, called MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience), which features a completely different user experience, compared to predecessor models – this new gadget can recognize natural speech, would include new touchscreen capabilities and comes with a new touchpad. Neat!

    Both new models, the 220 and 220 4MATIC come with a 2.0-liter inline-4 turbocharged power unit that generates a total of 188hp and 221lb-ft of torque. These fuel-efficient agile systems are mated to a 7G-DCT dual-clutch gearbox. Standard equipment for both models includes Panorama roof and Intuitively-operated MBUX multimedia system with intelligent Voice Control. Furthermore, buyers will get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, a high-resolution widescreen 7.0-inch digital display and overall comfortable and luxury interior ambience. As one might have well expected from the premium manufacturer.

    New A-Class Sedan can also be personalized with unique design and equipment packages that would further expand the list of features and would generously boost the performance rates. Such are the already available AMG Line and Night Package. There’s also a lesser Multimedia Package that includes Mercedes-Benz Navigation and augmented video.

    SEE ALSO: BMW proudly unveils new Z4 M40i. Here are some vehicle highlights!

    And as with every new Mercedes-Benz machine, the new A-Class lineup features sophisticated safety systems as Active Brake Assist, Crosswind Assist and adaptive braking technology with Hill Start Assist and HOLD function. Furthermore, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with Route-Based Speed Adaptation, Active Steering Assist and suite of advanced driver assistance systems that are also optionally available.

    Prices for the new 2019 Mercedes-Benz A-Class start from $32,500.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz 

  • Suzuki reveals one more Special Edition model – Swift Attitude. Check it out!

    2019 Suzuki Swift Attitude Suzuki team proudly announces the arrival of new Swift Attitude model, the latest Special Edition machine in the lineup. It is based on the popular SZ3 and comes with revised exterior design and tons of styling changes. The vehicle also features a relatively low price and extended list of standard equipment. Let’s check out more, shall we?

    In addition to the neat air conditioning, six airbags, DAB radio with Bluetooth, rear privacy glass and leather upholstery, new family member proudly showcases sexy LED daytime running lights, black polished 16-inch alloys, front foglamps, mesh front grille with chrome trim, rear upper spoiler and front, rear and side carbon effect skirts.

    2019 Suzuki Swift Attitude

    In terms of drivetrain system, new Attitude is geared with Suzuki’s trustworthy K12C 1.2-liter Dualjet four-cylinder power unit that generates a total of 90hp and is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. It further has CO2 emissions of 108g/km and combined cycle of 60.1mpg. What makes the engine system appealing is that it offers sporty vibe and could serve well to young buyers who are looking to aspirate to the 1.4 Boosterjet Sport in the future.

    SEE ALSO: Mercedes announced details and pricing for new 2019 A-Class lineup

    Special Edition can be specified in Fervent Red, Pure White, Premium Silver, Super Black, Mineral Grey and Burning Red metallic finishes.

    2019 Suzuki Swift Attitude

    Source: Suzuki

  • BMW proudly unveils new Z4 M40i. Here are some vehicle highlights!

    2019 BMW Z40i RoadsterBMW team proudly unveils the all-new Z4 M40i First Edition Roadster at Pebble Beach Lodge to kick-off Monterey car week and the new model year in general. What this bad boy features is pretty straightforward – agility, performance, advanced technologies and neat styling. Let’s delve right into the action, shall we?

    Design

    Although being an instantly-recognizable BMW machine, brand’s latest roadster is unique in its own way. The vehicle features combination of notable lines and clean-cut surface design in order to create this distinctive and aggressive silhouette.

    The body incorporates large air intakes, a low BMW kidney grill and headlights placed at outer edges. The long hood with arrow-shaped contour lines straddles the wheel arches in a clamshell style characteristic of classical sports car, while the upper character line runs from the bottom of the hood to the tail lights.

    2019 BMW Z40i Roadster

    At the rear, there’s integrated spoiler and slender, horizontally arranged light assemblies in BMW’s exclusive L-shape in order to add to the style, but also enhance the sporty performance of the vehicle. There’s also a second, lower character line that emerges from the large air vents behind the front wheel arches. Neat!

    Drivetrain system

    2019 BMW Z40i Roadster

    BMW Z4 Roadster will hit the streets with a new 2.0 liter four-cylinder TwinPower Turbocharged engine with increased overall power output. This updated BMW package comes with High Precision Injection system with maximum pressure of 350bar/5,076. This means that the vehicle can generate a total of 255hp and 295lb-ft of torque. This engine system is mated to an eight-speed Steptronic Sport gearbox with shift paddles.

    SEE ALSO: Porsche proudly unveils new 2020 911 Carrera and Carrera 4S Cabriolet

    Also, new BMW Z4 Roadster comes with a revised chassis technology that has been especially developed to deliver the optimal agility and dynamics on the road. It features a special double-joint spring strut suspension at the front and new five-link suspension in the rear. This is a setup seen for the first time in a BMW machine. By doing so, engineers have managed to achieve a great balance between sports car handling and overall ride comfort.

    Additional systems and goodies

    2019 BMW Z40i Roadster

    Z4’s highly advanced nature is also underlined by the class-leading variety of the assistance systems. Drivers will benefit from Forward Collision Warning and Daytime Pedestrian Detection with City Brake function, Lane Departure Warning and Active Cruise Control. Sweet!

    Source: BMW

  • The Impact of Motoring on Daily Life & an Excluded Group

    2019-Driving-910For people all around the world, cars are a hugely important part of our daily lives. They are a highly efficient mode of transportation for getting from A to B whether this is a young driver travelling to college, a professional commuting to work, a family heading on a day out or an elderly person doing their weekly shop. Cars are preferable to public transportation which can be expensive and unreliable, but a car gives you a tremendous amount of freedom and independence.

    An Excluded Group

    Vehicles are widely used by people of all ages (legal driving age, of course) and backgrounds and it is hard to imagine life without a car when you have owned one. Sadly, there are some people that are excluded from this freedom and independence. Those with a disability may not have the luxury of being able to drive or even be able to access a vehicle which can make daily life a challenge. Those with a disability need to be able to get out and be independent, but if they are in a wheelchair this can be challenging if they need to travel a long distance.

    Adapted Automobiles

    Fortunately, this is changing for the disabled community and the future looks bright. This is through the various adaptations that can be made to automobiles which can make it possible for people with a wide range of physical disabilities to either drive themselves or ride as a passenger. Companies like Allied Mobility are making it easier for people with disabilities to get around with their vehicles which are wheelchair accessible so that multiple people can comfortably and safely travel in an automobile. These excellent vehicles are available in various sizes and with different features so it should not be too hard to find a car that fits your needs.

    Autonomous Driving

    In addition to this, the future also looks bright thanks to the advance of autonomous driving. While this remains a way off, this certainly looks to be the future of motoring which would make it simple, safe and comfortable for people to get from A to B without the need to drive the vehicle themselves.

    Driving is a huge part of life for many people all around the world. It can be a quick, easy and relatively affordable way to travel long and short distances, yet it is a mode of transportation that is not available to everyone. Fortunately, it looks as if this is changing and the future will be different with the rise of autonomous driving.

  • Porsche proudly unveils new 2020 911 Carrera and Carrera 4S Cabriolet

    2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S CabrioletJust after a week after the premiere of new Porsche 911 in Los Angeles, the premium automobile manufacturer unveils new 911 Carrera S and 4S Cabriolet. Coming in style with solid glass rear window and integrated magnesium support elements, vehicles’ automatic top opens and closes in about 12 seconds. These who beauties also feature wider body design, flat-six turbocharged engines and numerous drivetrain and utility changes.

    Drivetrain system

    The already mentioned flat-six power unit benefits from comprehensive revision and now offers the aid of new piezo fuel injectors, larger turbochargers and new layout for the charge air cooling system. Basically, this a 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine that produces a total of 443 hp and is mated to an 8-speed PDK dual clutch gearbox as a standard. This combination allows both 911 Carrera S and Carrera 4S Cabriolet to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in mere 3.7 seconds and chase a top speed 342km/h. Not bad, right?

    Design

    2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet

    The exterior styling remains true to its roots and it is definitely an authentic Porsche 911 family member. However, there are some changes that mark the new design year. First, both machines feature wider wheel housings arch, housing 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels. At the front, the body width is increased with 45mm, while the length is increased to a total 1,852mm. Both models benefit from new standard LED headlights, pronounced contours, wider, variable-position spoiler and a seamless, elegant light bar that is now part of the standard equipment.

    SEE ALSO: Audi reveals new entertainment technologies at CES in Las Vegas

    In terms of interior styling, buyers will benefit from a design concept, influenced from 1970s models – there’s a centrally positioned tachometer, two thin and frameless displays, Porsche Communication Management system with a large 10.9-inch touchscreen and comprehensive connectivity features.

    Additional equipment and assistance systems

    2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet

    2020 911 Carrera S and 4S Cabriolet benefit from wide range of safety and utility assistance systems – these are world’s first Porsche machines that come with a dedicated Wet Mode, which preconditions the stability control and anti-lock brake system accordingly and warns the driver in case of water on the road. Furthermore, drivers will benefit from a camera-based warning brake assist system, Night Vision Assist with a thermal imaging camera and Adaptive Cruise Control option for automatic distance control and a stop-and-go function. Neat!

    2020 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet

    Source: Porsche

  • Audi reveals new entertainment technologies at CES in Las Vegas

    2019 Audi e-Tron Audi redefines the in-car entertainment experience by presenting new technologies and electronic tweaks, the prestigious bran will allow backseat passengers to experience movies, video games and interactive content in realistic and interactive way. Audi has co-founded a start-up company, holoride GmbH, which will commercialize the new entertainment platform and at the same time will further expand the boundaries of in-car entertainment.

    The engineering team has revealed the futuristic technology at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas and made a demonstration with “Marvel’s Avengers: Rocket’s Rescue Run” – an in-car VR experience for backseat passengers. By wearing VR glasses, passengers in Audi e-tron will be immediately transported in a fantastic outer space adventure: the vehicle will now function as a ship manned by the Guardians of the Galaxy, as passengers make their way through asteroid field along with Rocket, one of Marvels’ most beloved characters. What makes this game special is the fact that every movement of the vehicle is reflected in the in-game experience at the same time. Should the car take a tight corner, the player curves around an opposing spaceship in virtual reality, for example. If Audi e-tron accelerates, so will player’s spaceship.

    2019 Audi e-Tron

    What makes this co-founded holoride company special is that it holds minority interest through the subsidiary Audi Electronics Venture GmbH, which creates the technology. Also, Audi will license the technology to holoride. And by doing so, the start-up company will use an open platform to allow carmakers and content developers to create and offer additional extended reality formats.

    Along with video games, the platform can project educational trips through historical cities and human bloodstream and any other kind of entertainment. Furthermore, holoride will provide an exclusive software development kit that serves as an interface to the vehicle data and transfers those virtual realities to all kind of projectors. At the same time, it will allow developers to create worlds that can be experienced in-car with all the senses. As it seems, Audi is really into this game.

    SEE ALSO: Hyundai reveals details about world’s first walking Elevate Concept car

    For starter, holoride will launch new form of entertainment on the market and will use regular VR glasses. However, in the long-term, the developing team would make games and overall experience more comprehensive by adding more features, which will depend on vehicle and driver’s road behavior – stopping at traffic lights can introduce unexpected obstacles or interrupt the learning program with a quiz. As it is said, sky is the limit.

    2019 Audi e-Tron

    Stick with us for further information!

    Source: Audi 

     

  • Hyundai reveals details about world’s first walking Elevate Concept car

    2019 Hyundai Elevate ConceptAll first responder specialists will tell you that the first 72 hours following a disaster are the most crucial to saving lives. And often times, due to the nature of disaster, it can be difficult for search-and-rescue teams to reach and help those in need.

    Such occasions have led Hyundai team to the idea of developing a vehicle with moveable legs. The prototype is already created and bears the name Elevate. This is world’s first Ultimate Mobility Vehicle (UMV), which blends technology in electric cars and robots, which would allow it to go beyond the limitations of conventional automobiles and rescue machines.

    2019 Hyundai Elevate Concept

    Elevate concept is based on a modular EV platform with the capability to switch out different bodies for specific situations. The unique robotic leg architecture features five degrees of freedom along with wheel hub propulsion motors and electric actuator technology. This design allows the concept to imitate mammalian and reptilian walking gaits, allowing it to move to any direction and in any surface conditions. These legs can also fold up to a stowed drive-mode, in which power to the joints is cut and the use of integrated passive suspension system maximizes the battery efficiency.

    SEE ALSO: Brabham team presents unique upgrade for the track-ready BT62

    Such tweaks allow Elevate to drive at highway speeds just like an ordinary vehicle, but at the same time it can climb a five-foot wall, step over a five-foot gap, walk over diverse terrain and achieve a 15-foot wide track width and all this by keeping its body and passengers completely steel. Also, the combination of wheeled motion with articulating legs provides a new concept of mobility by enabling faster walking speeds, unique dynamic driving postures and torsional control at the end of each leg.

    2019 Hyundai Elevate Concept

    Source: Hyundai

     

  • Brabham team presents unique upgrade for the track-ready BT62

    2019 Brabham BT62Brabham Automotive team proudly announces a special upgrade pack for its limited edition BT62 track car, which will make it a road legal machine. It is called Road Compliance Conversion pack and brings numerous utility and performance tweaks an upgrades. Let’s check out more!

    The Australian high-performance manufacturer has created the BT62 to be an uncompromising track machine with performance and power rates that significantly surpass these of a conventional GT car. And while in its heart this is the same old advanced sportscar, the engineering team decided to respond to customer’s desire for occasional road use and has delivered us the exclusive upgrade.

    2019 Brabham BT62

    For the European market, the road compliant conversion will be handled by Brabham Automotive ahead of registration and the revised automobiles will be put through the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) and IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) tests. These examinations will ensure that all regulatory and legal standards have been met in order to see the car on open road.

    Furthermore, as one might well have expected, there would be numerous specifications made in order to make the BT62 more comfortable and usable on the road. These include raising the ride height with a front and rear axle lift kit, increasing the steering lock range, adding air conditioning, fitting door locks and immobilizers, installing high-quality upholstery for the interior.

    SEE ALSO: Genesis G70 and Essentia receive special recognition. Details here!

    The objective is to make the vehicle legal, safe and usable on road with minimal compromise to its race-bred nature and dynamics. And although the overall weight will be increased and some more changes will reduce the sporty capabilities, the engine will retain its original output of 700hp. Neat!

    2019 Brabham BT62

    2019 Brabham BT62

    Source: Brabham Automotive 

  • The best new van models coming in 2019

    2019-Ford-Transit-Facelift-910The year 2018 is coming to an end and there is a lot of excitement over what 2019 will hold in the van industry. Manufacturers will be launching all-new models, redesigning fan-favorites and bringing back models from the dead.

    No matter what type of van you’re looking for, 2019 will give you ample choices. Read on to find out what next year holds for the van industry and possibly your garage.

    1. 2019 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter

    This American-made Sprinter has been updated with new packages, new technology, and updated powertrains. The cockpit features an HD infotainment display, MBUX multimedia display that adds artificial intelligence and MBUX that recognizes advanced voice commands. The van is equipped with a new gas-powered 2.0-liter turbo-four that produces 190 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.

    The 2019 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter will be available in more than 1,700 different variants to ensure you get one that best suits your needs. The configurations include different roof heights, wheelbase lengths, drivetrain options, and seating configurations to name a few.

    2. 2019 Ford Transit Facelift

    The new Ford Transit is an updated version of Ford’s full-size van that will go on sale in mid-2019. It has been given a new three-bar grille and chrome trim, xenon headlight and LED daytime running lights.

    In addition to the sharp-looking new grille and headlight arrangement, it also has a number of technical upgrades that improve its practicality. These include a new range-topping 185hp, 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine, increased payload, and 10-speed automatic gearbox option. New technologies in the Ford Transit Facelift include intelligent speed assist, active park assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot recognition to name a few.

    3. 2019 Citroen Berlingo

    This award-winning van has remarkable upgrades in terms of comfort and technology. It features Citroen’s suspension settings that ensure maximum comfort, an EMP2 platform at the front for enhanced handling, 20 driver assistance systems and four connectivity technologies for safety.

    The 2019 Citroen Berlingo is available in two sizes – M and XL which are 4.40m and 4.75m long. Additionally, it comes in two versions – Worker and Driver – which differ in ground clearance, equipment levels, and protection and fit-out components. You can lease any of these variants to have a feel of how they run on the road. This will help you identify one that suits you before purchasing. If you’re considering leasing, check out the great deals from IVL.

    4. 2019 Peugeot Partner

    The 2019 Peugeot Partner shares a lot in common with Citroen’s third generation Berlingo. Both vans are available in two sizes – M and XL, come in two variants: Worker and Drivers and have a built on EMP2 platform.

    However, there are a few features that separate Partner from Citroen Berlingo. The notable one is the iCockpit design which is standard across Peugeot’s passenger vehicles. Other features are the high-tech overload alert, surround rearview camera system and the 1,000kg payload.

    5. 2019 Volkswagen ABT e-Caddy and ABT e-Transporter

    These two vans are the electric versions of the Transporter and the Caddy. They were developed by Volkswagen’s partner firm, ABT and are scheduled for sale from mid-2019.

    The e-Caddy is powered by an electric motor that produces 110 hp and 147 lb-ft of torque. It has a 37.3-kWh lithium-ion battery that feeds the motor and ensures the van covers a distance of up to 137 miles on a single battery charge. The e-Transporter has two battery options 37.3 kWh for 129 miles and 74.6 kWh for 250 miles.

    We expect these vans to join the 2019 model year lineup. However, nothing is official until it’s at your local dealership. They may come a bit sooner or later but they will all become a reality.

  • Genesis G70 and Essentia receive special recognition. Details here!

    2018 Genesis G70 and Essentia In December it was announced that new 2019 Genesis G70 and Essentia Concept machines have both won 2018 GOOD DESIGN awards. Genesis remains a leader in terms of premium drivetrain systems and exclusive interior design ideas and now joins the leading transportation, electronic, consumer and lifestyle product brands by receiving the annual recognition from Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design. Genesis G80 Sport and GV80 Concept are the two vehicles that won the awards in last year’s event.

    As you might know, the award is one of the oldest – it was founded back in 1950 by legendary Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames and architecture historian and philanthropist, Edgar Kaufmann, Jr. 2018 award was given in Los Angeles and New York, selecting the worthy among 47 countries.

    2019 G70 itself is the third of six new Genesis machines slated to debut by 2021 and it is the final sedan in the lineup. This model is believed to be far more powerful performance-wise than Legacy lineup and will deliver sportier driving experience. New G70 incorporates this extreme engine setup, along with refined luxury and sexy design.

    SEE ALSO: INFINITI announces details about new concept vehicle

    On the other hand, the all-electric, high-performance Genesis Essentia Concept made its debut at the 2018 New York International Auto Show and is brand’s first battery electric machine to feature lightweight carbon-fiber components, a robust multi-motor electric engine and a custom-tailored interior. Essentia is brand’s vision for a GT vehicle and it tries to challenge the conventional thinking and deliver something new and appealing. And as a self-respected contemporary machine, Essentia comes with serenity, clarity and beauty.

    2018 Genesis G70 and Essentia

    Source: Genesis

  • INFINITI announces details about new concept vehicle

    2019 INFINITI QX Inspiration Concept INFINITI team is ready to unveil its new QX Inspiration concept electric vehicle at the 2019 North American International Auto Show this month. Representing brand’s plans for high-performance electrified machine with wide range of standard features and refined drivetrain system.

    The development of the new QX Inspiration has led the design and engineering team to revise the formation of the whole body styling and delivering us a confident exterior look, blended with spacious and lounge-like cabin. As you have might well expected, INFINITI team has infused the interior with hand-crafted components and techniques inspired by the elegant and subtle Japanese sensuality. In fact, the interior styling is based on the Japanese hospitality principle of omotenashi, which creates welcoming environment, while remaining handy and functional.

    SEE ALSO: SKODA team presents new Kodiaq sVR model specification

    As Karim Habib, Executive Design Director, himself says, new QX Inspiration will mark a new era for INFINITI and showcase a new path for all future technologies, incorporated in these futuristic machines. What Mr. Habib accents on is that the revised drivetrain system and all next-gen engine systems have led to the opportunity to change the entire design concept. Long story short, we are about to see a machine that is both different from its predecessors and remains true to its roots at the same time. Cool!

    2019 INFINITI QX Inspiration Concept

    Source: INFINITI