Automobiles Review

Category: Auto News

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

Volkswagen reveals firsts details for new Trinity project

Volkswagen gives us the first glimpse of Project Trinity: an electrically powered sedan with expanded range, new technologies and an overall new approach towards the EV sector.

The name comes from the Latin “Trinitas” and means tri-unity. As it comes to the project, there are indeed three new approaches: a newly developed electronics platform with modern software, a simplification of the supply structure, and intelligent production at the main plant in Wolfsburg.

In the future, the individual configuration of the vehicle will no longer be determined by the hardware at the time of purchase. Instead, customers will be able to add functions on demand at any time via the digital ecosystem in the car, says Ralf Brandstätter.

What we know so far is that some of the future vehicles will be produced with fewer variants and the hardware will be standardized for all models across the lineup. Also, the vehicles will have an extended list of utility features that will be activated on demand by occupants at any level via the fully-digital cockpit and advanced VW digital ecosystem. This not only aims to enhance the comfort of driving but also is expected to significantly reduce the complexity in production.

Along with presenting us with a vehicle, the Volkswagen team is also aiming at developing a software-based product. VW team aims at creating the right conditions for new data-based business models. This means that entry barriers to individual mobility will be lowered and at the same time, VW will offer more attractive user packages. What they will also try is to generate more customer interest by changing the energy and software services that customers will be able to customize.

SEE ALSO: 2021 Kia Telluride wins the 2021 Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Award

March 8, 2021
2021 Kia Telluride wins the 2021 Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Award

New Kia Telluride has won the 2021 Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Award in the three-row midsize SUV category. The award is given to models with the lowest possible depreciation during the first five years of ownership. In fact, depreciation remains one of the significant factors during ownership and oftentimes impacts the overall value.

With its advanced technology and tons of tech gadgets, the new Telluride has managed to impress the jury and quickly become a worthy candidate for the award. Since the unfolding, Telluride has managed to catch the attention of both brand enthusiasts and sceptics for many reasons. The main one is that the customer demand for SUVs rises up, and the latest Kia family member manages to answer to the needs of buyers – the vehicle comes with a competitive price and has the highest-in-segment 60-month residual forecast.

With headquarters in Irvine, California, Kia Motors America has also been recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia is also the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and produces a full range of vehicles through a network of more than 750 dealers in the US.

Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards evaluates the analysis of statistical models based on millions of purchases. The vehicles that manage to earn the highest possible rating, the five-star residual value, expressed as a percentage of their initial price are selected for the award.

SEE ALSO: Bentley Mulliner launches an exclusive customization program for all Bentley models

It is an honour that our Telluride has received a Best Resale Value Award from Kelley Blue Book, a trusted resource for consumers looking to make the right buying decisions said Sean Yoon, president & CEO, Kia Motors North America, Kia Motors America. The Telluride delivers world-class design, quality, and technology, but is also the embodiment of the value proposition Kia delivers across our entire model line.

March 8, 2021
Bentley Mulliner launches an exclusive customization program for all Bentley models

Bentley Mulliner announces a unique set of personal commissioning options across all Bentley model lineups. This is an extensive list of options for both interior and exterior customization that buyers are able to choose from when in need of some refreshments for their Bentley beauties.

The Personal Commissioning Guide offers a fresh mix of classic and modern upgrades. Depending on the personal preferences, each owner will be able to add some new aesthetics and performance changes to their vehicle.

The upgrade program includes exclusive finish colours, painted veneers, custom interior stitching and tweeted trimmed door inserts. Of course, there are a ton of other personalization options. Also, the cool thing about the program is that enthusiasts have the chance to specify their perfect fit virtually through the brand’s online platform.

Custom exterior colours

For this project, Bentley Mulliner has specified a custom range of colours. All of these will be hand-sprayed with some help of robotic technology for the best possible finishes and results. Overall, there are 26 colours that customers can choose from, including solids, metallic and satins.

Also, for those who want even more, the Bentley specialists can colour-match any sample provided by using a cutting-edge colour recognition software that analyses the composition and sample provided by customers, which means that the colour customization is limited only by customer’s imagination.

Custom interior setup

Mulliner has prepared a range of 27 hide and stitching colours that create a unique colour ambience in the cabin. The schemes include up to three colours from different ranges and can result in some bold and striking interior looks.

Also, the interior of each Bentley can be crafted in order to have completely custom colour hues and stitching patterns. Neat!

Of course, there’s the chance for extra touches, depending on the preferences of each customer. This includes adding names, motifs, crests and similar to any component of the vehicle. Also, the seats and deep pile overmats can be embroidered in any way possible, while the outer illuminated sill plates can be specified in any possible colour.

SEE ALSO: Porsche team reveals first details for the new 2021 Porshe Taycan Cross Turismo

Customers also have the opportunity to add further extra touches to their Bentley. Whether adding a name, motif or crest, various aspects of the car can be tailored to display a customer’s personalisation. Seats and deep pile overmats can be embroidered, a name of choice can be added to the outer illuminated sill plates or personalised text or imagery can be applied to the passenger fascia panel in a satin finish.

March 5, 2021
Five facts about the new Lamborghini Huracan STO

The newest Lambo family member to be unveiled, the Huracan STO (Super Trofeo Omologata) is inspired by the Lamborghini team’s race cars: the Huracan EVO Super Trofeo and Huracan EVO GT3, the 3-time winner of the 24 Hours of Daytona and two-time winner of the 12-hours of Sebring.

Huracan STO develops a total of 640hp via the naturally-aspirated V10 power unit and 565Nm at 6,500rpm, a setup that allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 3.0 seconds and from 0 to 200km/h in 9.0 seconds. The vehicle has a top speed of 310km/h and is specially designed with race in its DNA. The lightweight materials and the superior aerodynamic efficiency allow Huracan STO to bring emotion and enhanced pleasure of driving.

As with any other Lambo, this one is crafted with passion and precision that deserve some more attention. Here are some interesting facts about the building of the Huracan STO:

COFANGO, a “Made in Lamborghini” design solution

The term Cofango comes from a blend of two Italian words: cofano, which means hood and parafango, which means a fender. Automobili Lamborghini team decided to use this custom word to describe the design approach, which is characterized by the fact that fenders, front bumper and the hood are integrated into a single component. This new approach is inspired by Lamborghini Miura and the modern Sestro Elemento.

Three exclusive modes that change in 3 seconds

Usually, three seconds are not a large period of time, but when it comes to motorsport, three seconds are equal to eternity. Huracan STO comes with three dedicated driving modes – STO, the normal driving one, Trofeo, the race mode and Pioggia, used for wet surfaces.

Huracan STO has been three times around the globe

Lambo’s R&D team drove the distance in simulator tests before taking the STO for road tests. The advanced simulator technology allowed engineers to spend tons of time on quality control, lead teams and precise customization that altogether result in an outstanding road and track behaviour.

There are 2,750 components that comprise the STO

Engineers have ensemble the frantic beauty from thousands of small pieces – to build one requires tons of expertise and patience.

SEE ALSO: Porsche team reveals first details for the new 2021 Porshe Taycan Cross Turismo

Connected telemetry thanks to 25,000 lines of code

Huracan comes with an advanced telemetry system that allows a connection between the vehicle and the App Lamborghini UNICA. The intuitive data analysis and video backed widgets have managed to transform the App into a real-time track engineer. The development of this technology was possible only after 25,000 lines of code was written.

March 5, 2021
Porsche team reveals first details for the new 2021 Porshe Taycan Cross Turismo

New 2021 Taycan Cross Turismo comes with a strong focus on performance and an exciting driving experience. The vehicle also adds tons of flexibility and customization to the mix, so it is worth checking out what Porshe have prepared for us.

A quick overview

This is a crossover and will be launched in four variants: Taycan 4 Cross Turismo, Taycan 4S Cross Turismo, Turbo Cross Turismo, and Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo. All variants will come with an advanced dual-motor AWD system and a two-speed rear gearbox. Porsche team has also included its own Adaptive Suspension Management in conjunction with air suspension, Performance Battery Plus and 800-volt battery architecture. Buyers also get adaptive aerodynamics, panoramic glass roof, and the brand’s PCM infotainment system.

Additionally, the new Taycan will be offered with a wide range of exterior colours, interior trim customization and Cross Turismo-specific items. Such include Off-Road Design Package and exclusive 20-inch Off-Road Design and 21-inch Cross Turismo Design wheels.

What makes the Taycan stand out from other Porsche models

First, the vehicle features a long and flatter roofline, compared to other Porsche models. This design allows some additional space for front and rear seat occupants. Taycan also comes with larger cargo space, with up to 15.7 cubic feet for the Taycan 4 Cross Turismo and Taycan 4S Cross Turismo. There’s a total of 14.3 cubic feet for the Turbo Cross and Turbo S Cross Turismo versions. Also, the rear seats can fold back and free up even more space, up to 42.8 cubic feet, depending on the model.

The fender extensions, exclusive rocker panels, front and rear fascia, and the 20-millimeter higher ride further differentiate the 2021 Taycan Cross Turismo from some of its siblings.

Performance and capabilities

Given that this is a capable off-roader, 2021 Taycan comes with a Gravel mode that increases the ride height by 10mm and sets the suspension firmness, traction and stability control to the settings that would ensure maximum grip over any kind of surface and in any road or off-road situation. This, blended with additional body cladding to minimize the errant rock chips to the body, Taycan becomes as effective on rough terrain as it is on the asphalt.

SEE ALSO: 2021 SKODA Octavia comes with an enhanced safety suite and a wide choice for customization

In terms of performance, Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in 2.7 seconds, only 0.1 seconds slower than the sedan counterpart. Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo can make the sprint to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, while the Taycan 4S Cross Turismo and Taycan 4 Cross Turismo can get to 60 mph in 3.9 and 4.8 seconds respectively.

Interior design

Inside, Taycan includes tech like Porsche Connect, Apple CarPlay, Function on Demand, Plug and Charge and more. Optional equipment includes Porsche InnDrive with Adaptive Cruise control and Active Lane Keep, Heads Up Display, 14-way seat adjustment and Bose and Burmester audio systems.
The vehicle is expected to hit the US market in the summer of 2021. More details will be announced soon – stick with us!

March 5, 2021
Kia team showcases new images of K8’s interior

Kia has opened the doors of its new K8 premium sports saloon and reveals a beautiful interior design with premium components and effortless style. As it seems, this interior shines on the brand’s intentions to the future where it will continue to impress with beautiful design ideas and advanced technologies.

What we see is that occupants will be greeted by an open and cosy space with sleek and minimalistic design and neat cabin effects. Ample in character and content, the materials were carefully selected to create a high-class and high-tech cocoon. There are neat wood accents that add depth and sophistication, as well as high-quality metals that create the feeling of polished industrial chic.

The complex diamond lattice approach expresses the movement of light in the cabin, while the Star Cloud lighting only enhances the warm interior ambience. At the bottom o the curved displays there’s the infotainment system and air conditioning controls that are operated by a touchpad and further reduce the use and adoption of plastic.

SEE ALSO: Five facts about the new Lamborghini Huracan STO

What we also see is that the ergonomic central console is placed in a position for optimal comfort for driver and passengers and features elegant wood-based cupholders and glossy soft-touch switches. Neat!

Also, the K8 interior features a new steering wheel design with the brand’s new logo that expresses “symmetry”, “rhythm” and “rising” elements.

More details will be announced soon.

March 5, 2021
2021 Volvo XC40 receives a prestigious award for its value retention

2021 Volvo XC40 has earned the Best Resale Value Award by Kelley Blue Book in the Luxury Subcompact SUV category. This is the model’s second consecutive year of winning the prize.

Admired for its modern and elegant design and for the brand’s famous safety suites, XC40 had no difficulties achieving the highest possible ratings. The vehicle comes with an advanced lane-keeping alert and assist, blind-spot warning and Pilot Assist technology that altogether contributed to the prestigious recognition. Additionally, the XC40 was also chosen a winner because of the numerous customization options it offers. Buyers can choose specs from an extended list of options and further enhance their vehicle with the brand’s aftermarket upgrades. And last, but not least, it seems that the machine reveals that it is super reliable in terms of maintenance and resale value.

Volvo doesn’t stop to impress both fans and sceptics with its hi-tech gadgets and overall modern approach towards vehicle building. Brand’s latest models manage to catch the attention of many juries around the globe and easily win awards one after another. Also known as “the Swedish pride”, Volvo continues to do deliver super safe cars and advanced technologies that not only contribute to a greener future but also enhance the pleasure of driving.

SEE ALSO: Volvo announces details for the brand’s first-ever electric-only model

As it comes to the event itself, Kelley Blue Book, it recognizes vehicles for their high retain value over the first five years of ownership. The evaluation is based on Kelley Blue Book Official Residual Value Guide and for its 19 years of existence has managed to point out the best machines in the category. The event receives widespread media attention and helps millions of buyers make a well-informed and confident choice for their next vehicle.

March 4, 2021
Vincentric reveals record low maintenance cost for VW cars

Volkswagen of America, Inc. announces that results from a maintenance cost study reveal that some of the brand’s models have the lowest cost of maintenance. The analysis is performed by Vincentric, an automotive data firm. It shows that Atlas and Jetta’s lineups offer the lowest costs for maintenance over the first five years of ownership, whereas Tiguan, Passat and Arteon outperformed key models from competitive brands.

Furthermore, Vincentric’s maintenance cost analysis shows that some 2021 VW models feature outstanding results. Such are:

2021 Atlas Family of vehicles has the lowest cost of maintenance among midsize SUVs. The Atlas Cross Sport ranked #1 for the lowest cost of maintenance in the category.

2021 Jetta ranks #1 for the lowest cost of maintenance among compact sedans.

2021 Tiguan has a lower cost of maintenance than competitive models by Honda, Toyota and Subaru in the compact SUV segment.

2021 Passat and Arteon models have a lower cost of maintenance than competitive models by Toyota, Honda and Hyundai in the midsize sedan segment.

It seems that Volkswagen has managed to retain its high standards and high-quality vehicles. Not only the brand has revealed tons of new gadgets and ideas but also has managed to successfully incorporate all these in new vehicle models. For example, the new ID lineup has managed to catch the attention of both brand enthusiasts and sceptics with its advanced technologies and tons of innovations.

Volkswagen’s operations in the US include technical research and development, vehicle processing, distribution centres, sales and service offices. Volkswagen Group remains one of the largest producers of passenger vehicles and Europe’s largest manufacturer.

SEE ALSO: Volkswagen ID.3 receives its 10th prestigious award. Check out some details!

As it comes to Vincentric, the firm provides data, knowledge, and insight to the automotive industry by applying numerous aspects of automotive value. This data is used by large organizations like Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, AAA, Nissan and many others.

March 4, 2021
2021 SKODA Octavia comes with enhanced safety suite and a wide choice for customization

New SKODA Octavia has won first place in the “Family Car” category at the 2021 Women’s World Car of the Year awards. This is the first victory for SKODA in the event. In fact, the new Octavia is also in the running for the overall title.

This is the fourth generation of Ocavia and comes with an elegant design and a spacious interior, and outstanding active and passive features. The vehicle ensures enhanced functionality, many advanced hi-tech gadgets and an eco-friendly drivetrain system. In fact, the new Octavia can be specified with a large choice of petrol, diesel and hybrid engines.

Octavia has also crowned the winner in the compact class category by the German “auto motor und sport” magazine. Back in 2020, Octavia won several awards in key export countries – Austria, Germany and Switzerland. All these recognitions highlight vehicle’s overall high quality and a perfect fit for families. Some of the awards include “Auto Express New Car Award” in the “Compact Family Car” and the overall “Car of the Year” title in October 2020. The vehicle has also won German awards for “Family Car of the Year” in June 2020 and “Best Design”.

As it comes to the event, the Women’s World Car of the Year title was first run in 2011. The jury is made up of female journalists, all specializing in the automobile industry. This year’s event witnessed 48 jurors from 38 countries who voted for the best vehicle produced between January and December 2020. The final announcements and winner will be made on the 8^th of March – International Women’s Day.

March 4, 2021
2021 Renaut Arcana come with an award-winning safety suite and beautiful exterior

The new Renault Arkana has been awarded the maximum five-star rating by Euro NCAP for its crash safety capabilities. The vehicle offers a wide array of passive and active safety equipment, including the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

New Arkana is based on the advanced CMF-B modular platform which brings tons of benefits. For example, the platform allows for redesigned seat composition, seatbelts fasteners with pyrotechnic pre-tensioners and load limiters that altogether offer maximum support for driver and passengers. Also, the Renault team has included its Fix4sure technology that promotes the best occupant restraint and avoids drivers and passengers sliding under the seatbelt in the result of a crash. At the same time, the child seats can easily and securely be installed on the outer rear seats.

In addition to the strong CMF-B platform, the new Arkana comes with the latest ADAS technology. It includes Motorway and Traffic Assistant with Adaptive Cruise Control with Start & Go function. Traffic Sign Recognition, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist are also available.

The vehicle also comes with an Active Emergency Braking System, which alerts the driver in terms of a dangerous situation and initiates braking when needed.

All these systems blend in a well-machinated suite which ensures peace of mind to the driver and passengers. Furthermore, all the systems are complemented by Arkana’s extensive equipment list, including new automatic lighting and a 360-degree camera with an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

SEE ALSO: Four Subaru models earn Kelley Blue Book’s 2021 Best Resale Value award

In fact, the vehicle also comes with a menacing silhouette, elegant design and sporty spirit. Customers have the chance to specify their vehicle with a wide choice of engines, including the latest E-TECH hybrid, with an extended driving range.

In terms of interior, the new Arkana is characterised by elegant design, premium materials and tons of hi-tech gadgets like the 10-inch TFT Driver Information Display and 9.3-inch EASY LINK infotainment display, both of which are highly customizable.

Orders can be done from July, with the first deliveries in September 2021. More details will be announced soon.

March 4, 2021
Four Subaru models earn Kelley Blue Book’s 2021 Best Resale Value award

Subaru of America, Inc. announced that has won four categories in the prestigious Kelley Blue Book’s 2021 Best Resale Value. These were won by 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, and Outback. In fact, the Outback SUV has secured its sixth segment win. This is also the seventh for the Impreza for its 19-year history.

Here’s the list of awards:

2021 Subaru Impreza
Best Resale Value: Compact Car

2021 Subaru Crosstrek
Best Resale Value: Subcompact SUV

2021 Subaru Forester
Best Resale Value: Compact SUV

2021 Subaru Outback
Best Resale Value: Midsize SUV – 2-row

The award itself, Best Resale Value Award, recognizes 2021 model vehicles for their retained value over the period of 5 years. Usually, depreciation is the primary expense for every owner, this event is organized to help consumers and enthusiasts to make a more informed choice when choosing a second-hand vehicle.

SEE ALSO: Volvo announces details for the brand’s first-ever electric-only model

Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards has held its 19^th show this year and is based on the Kelley Blue Book Official Residual Value Guide. This is an organization established by experienced automobile experts and analysts who evaluate statistical models built upon millions of transactions. The vehicles that earn the highest five-year residue values are expressed as a percentage of their original retail price are chosen as the winners. The low volume machines are excluded from the consideration list, except electric, luxury and sports cars.

March 3, 2021
Volkswagen ID.3 receives its 10th prestigious award. Check out some details!

Volkswagen ID.3 has received another prestigious award. This time frat the UK Car of the Year Awards 2021 event, in the segment “Best Small Hatch”. This marks the tenth time the model receives recognition.

The judging panel has praised the ID.3 for its numerous advanced features, including design, practicality and interior space. In fact, a key for the victory was that the jury recognized VW’s devotion to bringing e-mobility to the masses and remains faithful to the idea that was first introduced back in 2016. The ease of use and the overall familiar characteristics were also praised.

This year’s show saw that ID.3 gained even more breadth of appeal by the additional battery and the extended list of customizable features. At the same time, the ID.4, Volkswagen’s first fully-electric SUV is already available to order by UK customers in its 1^st Edition trim.

SEE ALSO: Volvo announces details for the brand’s first-ever electric-only model

As it seems, Volkswagen remains true to its dedication to ensuring a greener future by constantly revealing new technologies and upgrading old ones. The case with the ID.3 lineup is the same – we see constant improvement and tons of goodies coming our way all the time. This is why we believe VW remains one of the leaders in the uprising EV segment. Not only such approaches are in dire need for the world, but also shows how an enterprise can quickly change so it can be of service to a brighter cause.

March 3, 2021