Automobiles Review

Category: Auto News

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

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

Volvo Cars, the Swedish automobile manufacturer, has revealed its latest model – the C40 Recharge. The vehicle is the brand’s next step to the zero-emission future.

The vehicle features all the benefits of an SUV, but also comes with a sleeker design language. Based on the CMA platform, this is also the first Volvo model to be pure electric only.

Following the introduction of the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, the Volvo team will roll out several additional models in the same lineup in the upcoming years. The idea is that 50 per cent of the vehicles by 2025 will be fully electric, while by 2030 every car the manufacturer sells should be purely electric.

Exterior and interior design

New C40 Recharge comes with a striking rear-end shape with a low roofline, while the front-end introduces a completely new face, which will be present in all electric-only Volvo machines.

The inside is characterized by high seating positions and optional colour schemes for each individual model. Also, this is the first Volvo car to be completely leather-free.

In terms of tech gadgets, C4 Recharge comes with an advanced infotainment system, smartphone integration, and Google Suite incorporation.

Drivetrain system

In terms of driving power, the drivetrain consists of two twin electric motors, one at the front and one at the rear axle, powered by a 78kWh battery which can recharge at 80% in 40 minutes. This setup allows a range of about 420km, which is expected to be further improved via future software updates.

C40 Recharge can already be ordered online and the first deliveries are expected to begin this fall. When ordered, customers will get also a convenient pack of service, warranty, roadside assist and insurance, as well as home charging options.

SEE ALSO: New Audi Q5 Sportsback receives some neat upgrades. Check them out!

As it seems, Volvo is strictly following its goal of delivering zero-emission vehicles that also offer enhanced safety features and an overall pleasurable driving experience. As with any other Volvo machine, we expect an extended list of safety features and tons of new utility gadgets.

Stick with us for further details!

March 3, 2021
New Audi Q5 Sportsback receives some neat upgrades. Check them out!

The new Q5 Sportsback blends Audi’s best features of the coupe and SUV segment. Along with the enhanced versatility of both worlds, the vehicle now also offers enhanced battery life and tons of new technologies. Let’s have a look, shall we?

Drivetrain system

Just like its siblings, the new Q5 Sportsback comes with a blend of an electric motor with a 2.0 TFSI petrol engine that together delivers a total of 265hp and 370Nm of torque. This setup is then mated to a seven-speed S tronic gearbox, which delivers the output to a Quattro drivetrain.

As it comes to the battery itself, it is a lithium-ion unit placed just below the luggage compartment floor. It features 104 prismatic cells and can store 14.4kWh of energy with a voltage of 381 volts.

Additionally, the Q5 comes with a choice of four selectable driving modes:

These are the EV, which is the default setting and distributes the battery output optimally in order to keep the overall power consumption to a minimum.

Hybrid mode allows for a sweet balance between petrol aggressiveness and a hybrid economy.

Then there’s the Charge mode, which increases the amount of energy consumption from the battery for a more dynamic ride.

In the Hold mode, battery capacity is held at current levels.

Along with this enhanced flexibility, the new Q5 is geared with a predictive efficiency assist (PEA) system which operates the parameters of coasting recuperation to suit any driving situation. It works by predicting the route data from the navigation and monitoring the distance to the vehicles ahead. When the adaptive cruise (ACC) is active, PEA supports the driver by braking and accelerating automatically to boost comfort in the cabin.

Interior updates

The five-seater now incorporates a new two-section dashboard and a third-generation modular infotainment system. There’s also a 10.1-inch MMI monitor which offers full touch-screen functionality, as well as state-of-the-art natural voice recognition and control.

Exterior updates

To complement the connectivity technology, the Audi team geared the vehicle with LED lights that can further be upgraded with optional Matrix LED headlamps, a choice of exclusive alloy wheels and OLED rear lights with a black styling package. There’s also a panoramic glass sunroof.

March 3, 2021
Jeep reveals two new Special Editions
As Spring arrives, two new Jeep Special Editions come out to greet the first warm sun rays. These two were first introduced back in 1988, and now Jeep makes a dramatic reintroduction with two exclusive models. Both machines come with 4×4 capability paired with unique visual themes and tons of neat features. Let’s check out more!

2021 Jeep Wrangler Islander

The vehicle marks the return of the Islander after an 11-year hiatus. Based on the Wrangler Sport S, this model can be specified with either two or four doors. The pack of the standard equipment includes tons of goodies among which we can see the Jeep Command-Trac 4×4 part-time, two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio, sexy 17-inch Rubicon aluminium wheels in Silver, Rubicon Rock Rails, Uconnect 4 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional features include:
- Exterior details include a Tiki Bob hood decal; interior details include a Ceramic White mid-bolster and black cloth seats with an embroidered Islander logo and Surf Blue accent stitching
- Available white three-piece hardtop
- Optional Islander Plus Package by Mopar adds front/rear grab handles, cargo tub liner, solid sunbonnet top and Tiki Bob soft spare-tire cover
- The Jeep Wrangler Islander is available in Billet Silver, Black, Chief, Granite Crystal, Bright White, Firecracker Red, Hellayella, Sarge Green, Snazzberry and Sting-Gray.
2021 Renegade Islander

For the first time, this edition joins the Jeep lineup. Based on the Renegade Latitude, the exclusive edition features many standard features and some optional content. For example, there’s also the full-time 4×4 system, 19-inch Silver alloys wrapped by all-season tires, dual-pane panoramic sunroof and Uconnect 4 with smartphone integration. Also, there are:
- Keyless Entry with panic alarm
- Remote start system
- Available Alpine White painted roof
Some of the exclusive details include a Tiki Bob hood decal, premium black cloth seats with embroidered Islander logo and Surf Blue Accent stitching.

SEE ALSO: Kia reveals new BAYON lineup.

The Jeep Renegade Islander is available in Bikini, Jetset Blue, Glacier and Omaha Orange.

Both special edition models can already be ordered through Jeep dealers.
March 2, 2021
Kia reveals new BAYON lineup. Check it out!

Hyundai has finally unveiled the BAYON. This is the brand’s all-new crossover SUV designed specifically for Europe. This is a B-segment machine and is the smallest in Hyundai’s lineup. The vehicle features a compact exterior, a comfortable interior and an extended list of safety features. Let’s check out some more, shall we?

Exterior design

BAYON is defined by a distinctive exterior design with a unique approach and high-tech looking details. At the front, there’s a wide grille that opens at the bottom, creating a solid and muscular stance. At the same time, the three-part main lights blend well with the air intakes and establish a unique look and expression.

At the sides, a dynamic shoulder provides a wedge-shaped appearance. Also, the arrow-shaped C-pillar provides some more dynamics in the exterior architecture. All this, in combination with the massive fenders, creates this unmistakable vision of the vehicle.

And last, but not least, the rear reveals an arrow-shaped lights design that enhances the dramatic look of the pillar dynamics. Also, the thin horizontal line that connects the lights adds one more layer of width.

On the side, a dynamic shoulder provides a wedge-shaped appearance. The arrow-shaped C-pillar provides dynamic and unexpected architecture. This, in combination with the fender feature and cladding, defines its unique character.

To the rear, arrow-shaped lights underline the pillar dynamics. Their far-out position creates a wide stance. In addition, a thin horizontal line connecting the taillights further emphasises width and connects the rear and the side in one gesture. Angular lines above the rear arch emphasise volume, creating a vivid section. The strong rear section and visually extended rear window initiate a unique and expressive rear design. Full LED lights and indicators complete its modern look.

BAYON is available with 15-inch steel wheels or 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels.

Interior

BAYON offers a clear and spacey cabin with tons of features. There’s a focus on optimising the comfort of passengers and increasing the boot space. What immediately makes a strong impression is that the cabin is richly equipped with advanced smart technologies that altogether contribute to a safer and more pleasurable ride for all vehicle occupants.

Such gadgets include large AVN screens, smartphone integration via Apple Carplay and Android Auto, 25-inch Audio Video Navigation (AVN), 8-inch Display Audio, 25-inch digital cluster, Bose Premium Sound System, Wireless charging pad and three USB ports.

Additionally, BAYON is geared with the latest Hyundai Bluelink upgrade, which offers state-of-the-art Connected Car Services. These include Connected Routing and new User Profile feature. Also, there’s calendar integration, and tons of other handy goodies such as Live Parking Services, Online Voice Recognition, Online POI function, enhanced security features and automatic diagnostics and vehicle reporting.

Safety features

BAYON offers driver and passengers a robust suite of safety gadgets that ensure a safe journey. There’s also a number of semi-autonomous driving features as Lane Following Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, Occupant Alert for alerting there’s some movement in the rear seats, eCall with automatic alert emergency services.

Drivetrain system

BAYON manages to achieve a neat balance between power output and efficiency. The vehicle also offers some neat CO2 emissions. The available T-GDi is a turbocharged power unit with direct injection for optimal efficiency. In fact, the economy is achieved thanks to the 48-volt mild-hybrid technology with smart Manual Transmission that altogether results in an even more enhanced fuel saving and efficiency.

BAYON also comes with Hyundai’s unique Variable Valve Duration technology which regulates the duration of the valve opening and closing according to the driving conditions. This results in optimized engine performance and improved fuel efficiency.

Speaking of engines, BAYON is geared with an agile 1.0-litre T-GDi power unit with 48V and a choice between 100 or 120hp. Additionally, this setup can be specified with either a 6-sped Intelligent Manual Transmission or a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

SEE ALSO: Kia reveals further details for the 2022 Carnival MPV 8-seater

The Bayon is also the first Hyundai SUV to come with Rev Matching, a feature that is usually reserved for the brand’s high-performance models. The Rev matching manages to sync the engine to the output shaft, which allows for smoother or sportier downshifts, depending on the driver’s preferences.

March 2, 2021
Kia reveals further details for the 2022 Carnival MPV 8-seater

Following on the heels of the Carnival MPV’s North American debut some days ago, Kia Motors America has announced more details for the advanced vehicle. Pushing the boundaries and bringing an entirely new segment to life, 2022 Carnival MPV will be offered in four trim levels: LX, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. The starting price of the vehicle is $32,100.

A quick overview

The Carnival MPV is geared with a 3.5-litre V6 power unit which generates the best-in-class 290hp. Also, the powertrain provides up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity. Also, the power is further amplified by an expansive roster of standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Avoidance Assist and Lane Keeping Assist systems.

Additionally, the new MPV offers plenty of space for all seven or even 8 passengers. The utilities include the best-in-class 168.2 cubic feet passenger room, best-in-class 145.1 cubic feet of cargo room, Slide-Flex seating for the 8-passenger version which allows multiple configurations. For example, sliding the second-row centre seat allows the front passenger to easily access the baby or child riding it. There’s a heated and ventilated second-row VIP Lounge Seating with power controls, wing-out headrests and leg extensions in up-level 7-passenger configurations. Also, the second-and third-row seats allow even more space for luggage.

SEE ALSO: New Kia Sorento is the winner at the WWCOTY. Details here

All this is packed within a modern design with a minimalistic approach and tons of sexy features. Along with the vehicle’s advanced utility goodies, the new Carnival MPV presents a beautiful exterior design and a stylish interior. Definitely a worthy addition to the Kia family, the MPV surely deserves some attention.

2022 Carnival MPV would replace the outgoing Sedona and is also the first Kia to be sold with the brand’s new logo.

March 2, 2021
Mitsubishi announces details for the all-new 2022 Outlander

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) announced details for the new 2022 Outlander, the brand’s well-equipped and smartest vehicle so far.

Mitsubishi’s flagship comes with a new platform and new type of engine, distinctive exterior with numerous beautiful touches. New Outlander also features more standard driver connectivity and driver assistance features and now comes with Mitsubishi’s signature and updated Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC AWD system.

Refined exterior and well-equipped interior

2022 Outlander was crafted under the design language of “I-FU-DO-DO”, which translates to “authentic and majestic” in Japanese. The exterior is characterised by the vehicle’s massive proportions, muscular stance and the chiselled lines of the next-generation “Dynamic Shield” grille. There are also standard 18-inch wheels and an optional 20-inch set that enhances the robust presence.

As it comes to the inside, Outlander offers the segment’s only standard third-row seating and ensures enhanced comfort with its premium materials and overall super-advanced cockpit. For example, there’s an available 12.3-inch full-colour LCD digital display, Apple CarPlay 3 and Android Auto TM4, SiriusXM compatibility, wireless smartphone charging and Mitsubishi Connect with Safeguard and Remote Services.

Drivetrain system

The heart of the Outlander is a completely revised 2.5-litre, four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to an eight-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT) with a dedicated Sport mode.

Mitsubishi’s motorsport-inspired Super All-Wheel Control 2 provides drivers with a total of six driving modes to adjust the electronically-controlled 4WD system, which allows drivers to feel more confident in any road situation and condition.

Standard and Available Safety and ADAS features

New Outlander offers an impressive array of standard and optional assistance systems that increase driver safety, confidence and the overall pleasure of driving.

The vehicle is geared with MI-PILOT Assist which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition to maintain the appropriate speed and following distance.

Depending on the trim level, 2022 Outlander offers Forward Collision Mitigation, Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Active Blind Spot Assist, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Change Assist, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Driver Attention Alert, Rear Automatic Emergency Braking, Hill Descent Control and Trailer Stability Assist.

March 2, 2021
The virtual unveiling of new IONIQ 5 is marked by a record number of enquiries.

The world premiere of Hyundai IONIQ 5 was followed by the highest number of European brand enthusiasts. Also, this was the event with the largest number of enquiries. Since the unveiling on 23^rd February, the company had recorded 236,000 expressions of interest, while about 3,000 units of the limited IONIQ 5 Project 45 were almost three times over-subscribed in a period of 24 hour of reservations opening.

Unveiled via a virtual premiere, the new IONIQ 5 quickly generated a high level of website traffic and social media engagement. In fact, visitors were more active even that the previous record when Hyundai unveiled the Tucson SUV in 2020.

The new IONIQ 5 is the first Hyundai model built on the brand’s new architecture for battery electric vehicles, named Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). It is also brand’s first vehicle in the lineup to feature ultra-fast charging and Vehicle-to-Load function.

SEE ALSO: New Kia Sorento is the winner at the WWCOTY. Details here.

The limited-edition will be first delivered to customers in Europe. Along with the elegant and super clean design, buyers will have the chance to make tons of specifications including adding a solar roof or exclusive 20-inch alloys. Neat!

Given the futuristic design of the vehicle and Hyundai’s high-quality products, it is of no wonder that the demands for the model are so high. After all, the brand has proven itself to be not only a market leader, but also an effective innovator – we have seen tons of updates and changes coming from the Hyundai team.

Stick with us for further information.

March 1, 2021
New Kia Sorento is the winner at the WWCOTY. Details here

New Kia Sorento was chosen the winner at the 2021 “Women’s World Car of the Year” (WWCOTY) awards in the category of Best Large SUV. This is the second year for Kia to win the WWCOTY awards after receiving Best Urban Car for its XCeed model and Best Green Car for the Soul EV last year.

The panel of experts examines a total of nine categories and the winner is determined after a final vote. The jury of WWCOTY is composed of 50 top female automobile journalists across 38 countries and five continents. The event is founded by Sandy Myhre in New Zealand almost a decade ago and aims at identifying the best vehicles of the year based on a set of requirements.

As it comes to this year’s winner, Sorento, it was one of the three vehicles shortlisted for the category. It managed to achieve victory due to its advanced safety features, overall high quality, competitive price, elegant design and overall environmental impact.

In fact, Sorento is also the first vehicle in Kia’s midsize SUV lineup to feature an advanced electrified engine and improved overall performance. The technology behind the powertrain allows the large vehicle to maximize cargo and luggage space and makes Sorento one of the most versatile vehicles on the market today.

The all-new Sorento lineup is already available across Kia’s dealership network and comes with numerous options for engine setup. Some include hybrid, diesel and Plug-in Hybrid.

We are honoured to receive another award from the expert jury at Women’s World Car of the Year, commented Jason Jeong, President at Kia Europe. This is a welcome accolade for one of Kia’s most important cars; which our design, engineering and product teams have worked hard to ensure is a leader in the SUV segment. This latest award underpins our strong position in the European Market.

March 1, 2021
Ringbrothers present a rather special Mercury Cougar. Check it out!

Ringbrothers, the famous custom car builders, unveiled their latest project – a modded 1968 Mercury Cougar. The beautiful vehicle comes with the mighty 460hp generated by the Ford Coyote 5.0L V8 engine, connected to a 10-speed paddle-shifted auto gearbox from a Ford F-150 Raptor.

Additionally, Ringbrothers gave the Cougar a frame-off restoration which includes new floor pans and gearbox tunnel, new performance suspension by DSE, brakes and HRE Series C1 C103 Forged 3-piece wheels with Michelin tires. Also, the tuning team has used 3M’s bodywork products and BASF paint to achive this eye-catching stance. The bumper, grille, hardware and badging finish are also custom-made especially for this particular model. Under the hood, Motul synthetic oil keeps the engine running smoothly, while the exclusive Flowmaster exhaust ensures a menacing roar.

Exterior and interior design

What we like the most about the project is that Ringbrothers have managed to retain this aggressive silhouette while upgrading the vehicle with tons of improvements. The green finish in combination with the red brake calipers is definitely a killer combination. Speaking of exterior features, the vehicle comes with a clean design and straight lines and massive proportions.

As it comes to the cabin, designers have managed to retain the vintage feel and present us quite a stylish interior space. As with any other sporty machine, the interior design is minimalistic and almost Spartan-ish. With the exception of the comfortable-looking brown seats and the sexy steering wheel. Put it simply, we see that there’s a full balance between aggressiveness and elegance.

SEE ALSO: VW celebrates Golf GTI’s 45th anniversary with a special edition

We put our heart into each car we build, and this Cougar is no exception. The finished product is mild and classy, yet any enthusiast instantly knows it’s not stock. I imagine this is what Mercury designers would have come up with if they were building the Cougar today.

While we couldn’t bring the car to the SEMA Show, we hope it can be shown to the public soon. We had never done a Cougar before, so this was a fun build. I love working with new shapes and coming up with new ideas.

March 1, 2021
VW celebrates Golf GTI’s 45th anniversary with a special edition

Back in 1976, VW launched the first prototype of the famous Golf GTI lineup. At the time, the people at Volkswagen had no idea that this will eventually turn out to become one of the brand’s most notable model. Now Volkswagen celebrates the 45^th birthday of the iconic vehicle with a special anniversary model: the 300hp (221kW) Golf GTI Clubsport 451.

Some of the specs include a 55hp increase over the standard GTI turbocharged model and a dedicated Special driving mode for race tracks. Visually, the vehicle includes large air intakers that not only contribute to the sporty stance but also deliver more oxygen to the TSI. Also, there’s an exclusive open roof spoiler that allows better airflow and greater downforce and a separate sport exhaust system.

Even the “standard” Golf GTI Clubsport is technically distinct from the standard Golf GTI4/5, with features including a 55 PS increase over the standard GTI’s turbocharged engine (TSI) and the Special driving mode for race tracks. Visual highlights of the Clubsport include larger air intakes (delivering more oxygen to the TSI), a specially designed open roof spoiler to allow improved airflow (greater downforce), and a separate sport exhaust system.

What is also special about the Clubsport 45 is the ton of custom details. For example, the exterior boasts a beautiful black roof, black roof spoiler in homage to the first-ever Golf GTI. The optional Race package offers 19-inch Scottsdale alloy wheels in glossy black with a narrow accent pinstripe in Tornado Red. The Race pack also includes a sport exhaust system and removal of the Vmax limiter. Of course, there’s the notable “45” added t the lettering on the boot id underpin. The Clubsport 45 also comes with IQ. Light LED matrix headlights with a red strip which is a standard feature.

SEE ALSO: Bentley Continental Tuning by Wheelsandmore

In terms of interior, the anniversary model comes in classic GTI insignia. There are embellishments with GTI lettering on the backrests of the front premium sports seats. There’s also this cool “45” on the multifunctional steering wheel right at the central spoke.

March 1, 2021
Wheelsandmore Bentley Continental 24

With the Continental 24 Bentley has been celebrating its participation in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring since 2017 and produced strictly limited only 24 vehicles for Europe. What a nice coincidence that tuner and wheel manufacturer Wheelsandmore will also be present at the Nürburgring for the Grip Cars & Coffee Event on May 20, 2018 with their own exhibition box in the paddock …

As a leading tuner and manufacturer of rims and exhaust systems for British sports cars from Bentley it is easy for Wheelsandmore, based close to the dutch border near Dusseldorf, to customize even for the extremely rare special edition Continental 24 perfectly fitting rims, an optimized software and a powerful and performance-enhancing flap exhaust system.

February 26, 2021
Mercedes E63 AMG

Tuner Wheelsandmore completes the Mercedes W213 tuning program with the estate variant of the E63 AMG and presents with the introduction of the E63 S AMG some innovations in power upgrading due a plug-and-play tuning box and ultra concave forged wheels, providing an exclusive and innovative tuning program that is outstanding in Europe. The 4.0l bi-turbo engine has now proven successful in the AMG segment and is accepted as a powerful advancement even by the non-dying enthusiasts of the 6.3L AMG naturally aspirated engine. AMG proves that the engines consistently offer performance-enhancing potential with power outputs between 457 and 612hp.

Wheelsandmore presents 3 different options to increase the performance of the currently most powerful 63 series from the AMG portfolio.

Stage I + II: Wheelsandmore generates optionally 650hp and 920nm or 680hp and 960nm out of the standard 571 / 612hp due ecu remapping with unlocked v-max.

Tuner Wheelsandmore presents an easy-to-install plug-and-play tuning box for all 43/45/63 AMG engines.

The tuning-box unlocks the v-max as well and generates in total 712 hp and 965nm of torque with the Mercedes E63 AMG and E63 S AMG.

Especially interesting for leased vehicles, as the box can be uninstalled at any time without a backlash and can be installed in any other Mercedes E63 AMG vehicle.

The standard air suspension of the Mercedes E63AMG was height adjusted in the usual and proven way by adjustable coupling bars for a perfect match with the modified wheel-tire combination.

This is where the combined experience and expertise of Wheelsandmore is needed, as only multi-piece rims can be designed perfectly, simply and precisely for a vehicle with such different offsets. As all rims from Tuner Wheelsandmore have been tested in accordance with the required TUV reports and the manufacturer has all parts ready for delivery on stock, the production of extremely concave forged wheels is no problem for the current estate of the Mercedes E63 AMG.

The german car tuning company and wheel manufacturer mounted stately 10×21 inch F.I.W.E rims at the front axle covered with Michelin tires sizing 265/30/21 and staffed the guide axle with 11.0×21 inch wide rims of the same type and with 295/25/21 tires. Due to the wider front fenders of the Mercedes E63 AMG Wheelsandmore was able to craft a full set of F.I.W.E. wheels wearing the ultra deep concave centers, which were initially designed for the rear axles of sports- and supersportscars. In this combination the E63AMG comes super wide and brute and Wheelsandmore achieves an optics which was unknown from Europe´s wheel manufacturers so far.

February 26, 2021