Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • MagnaFlow team creates an exclusive upgrade for Jeep Gladiator. Details here!

    2019 MagnaFlow Jeep Gladiator MagnaFlow team has announced its brand-new performance exhaust system for 2020 Jeep Gladiator. The gadget is available for pre-order immediately in three different configurations, including two Street Series cat-black systems and a Rock Crawler Series for maximum clearance and optional pipe routing for a heavy-duty usage.

    The first two Street Series exhaust systems ensure balance of neat engine output and enhanced flexibility. Both upgrades provide efficient flow and dyno proven power and the thing that makes them stand out from the crowd is the unique aesthetic with a single driver side rear exit with polished stainless steel tip and a dual split rear exit under the bumper with a satin black finish.

    SEE ALSO: The Pros and Cons Of The Skoda Kodiaq  

    Both Gladiator Street Series exhaust systems incorporate a 3-inch mandrel bent tubing and a 5x8x24-inch oval muffler. Also, both of these goodies provide a high clearance for sweet off-road adventures. The systems feature a hidden single straight exit turn down on the driver side of the machine, which provides a more aggressive exterior tone, but the large new muffle still makes it possible for a moderate interior sound level. Furthermore, all stainless-steel MagnaFlow exhaust systems are backed by a Limited Lifetime Construction Warranty, which includes a precise bolt-on installation.

    Source: MagnaFlow 

  • The Pros and Cons Of The Skoda Kodiaq  

    2019 SKODA KodiaqThere are numerous luxury SUVs with seven-seats to choose from, but you need a lot of money for that. Skoda Kodiaq is a great choice, especially if you’re on a budget. Here’s what you need to know about this vehicle, and the advantages and disadvantages it has.

    Do you know what Kodiaq is?

    If you’re looking for a reasonably-priced car, the Skoda Kodiaq should be added to your shortlist. It could be just the ticket for huge families looking for value for the money spent. Kodiaq is Skoda India’s first full-sized 7-seater premium SUV. Czech automaker Skoda finally launched the tremendously awaited Skoda Kodiaq in the Indian car market. It’s pitched against the booming models like Ford Endeavor and Toyota Fortuner.

    The new Skoda Kodiaq in India has launched in just a sole trim style and has been labeled at a premium pricing of Rs.34.49 lakh (ex-showroom throughout India). Due to its massive pricing, the Kodiaq will also be set against the luxury SUVs such as Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X1, and Audi Q3.

    If you’re looking to consider purchasing this vehicle it’s a good idea to know the pros and cons first. Here they are below:

    The Pros:

    Classy and Elegant Design – The exterior design is super classy. It has a stylish, sophisticated and contemporary design that’s obviously impressive. It looks like a scaled-down Audi Q7 and feels very well-built too.

    Spacious and Luxurious Interiors – The Kodiaq is big inside-out.It’s a stylish and super-generous cabin. It also has adequate room in it’s 1st and 2nd row even for a tall seater. It also boasts a high standard of comfort with a top-notch safety kit including 9 airbags, brake assist, ABS with EBD, multi-collision brakes, and all-round parking sensors. It’s versatile seating allows you to exchange between more passengers or more baggage as per your needs. There’s a standard of 270 litres of boot space which expands to 630 litres. It also consists of a storage space available that’s up to 2005 litres with it’s second and third row seats folded. Wow!

    Filled with Premium Features

    The Kodiaq is the Skoda’s first large SUV model and is filled with great features. It includes:

    • Ambient lightning, like full LED-exterior lighting system.
    • Electric sunroof.
    • Electric front seats with memory functions.
    • .18 inch alloy wheels.
    • 8.0 inch touch screen integrated system with Android Auto, Apple Carplay and Mirror link.
    • Advanced 12 Audio Speaker system.
    • There’s also a three-zone climate control.
    • Additionally, there’s also a drainage system in the front doors and umbrella holders.

    High level on Safety

    2019 SKODA Kodiaq

    The Kodiaq is in line in the top safety rating of five stars from Euro NCAP. It has a standard of 9 airbags (previously said in the first segment) along with a host features such as Traction control, ABS, ESP, Reverse-parking camera, and all-round parking sensors, cornering fog lamps and multi-collision braking system.

    Car like Convenience

    Regardless like a large SUV, the Skoda Kodiaq experience is like a car. It provides easy access to its cabin, light steering and dashing, flat ride, purified engine along with a smooth gearbox transmission to supply car-like moves and convenience.

    The Cons:

    • Non-aggression view – Great sized SUVs have an assertive look with intimidating road-presence but the Kodiaq doesn’t have this. It has built-up fashionably good looks, un-meant for those who have great interest to intimidating SUVs.
    • Third Row Inconvenience – Skoda Kodiaq third row isn’t easy to access because of the lack in tumbling operation of the second row. The passenger doesn’t sit comfortably because the third row is low in level and there’s also no AC, but the airbags are provided.
    • Grunt absence – Skoda Kodiaq is a huge SUV, but it’s TDI engine with 2.0L is not that great. In fact it doesn’t feel powerful when driving, but the need of more power can be felt when on highways during higher revs.
    • Not a very resistant off-roader – Skoda Kodiaq provides all wheel drive structure, high standard ground clearance and believe it or not the Kodiaq is a great off-roader in snow mode, but it doesn’t drive as smooth like the Endeavour or Fortuner in rough terrain.

    Final thoughts

    There are no perfect vehicles in this world, people, even things have their pros and cons. Others have a diamond prospector name, but when you see it, it’s sensible. Above all, the Skoda only costs Rs.34.49 lakh (ex-showroom in India) for the top range model.

     

     

     

     

     

  • High Tech Solutions For Your New Lexus

    2019-Lexus-Sedan-910Compared to 2018, there was a 12.2% increase in the total Lexus sold in March this year, as recorded in the company’s USA sale reports. This increase has been facilitated by the company’s logo to pursue perfection without relenting. The new 2019 edition of the RCF coupe has undergone a series of redevelopments that have changed its utility features, the cabin, and even the drive train. A V8 rigid engine with a 5.0-liter output has been engineered with an 8-speed gear transmission to deliver a maximum torque of 520Nm. The advanced electric launch controls automatically operate the engine making the car to accelerate with ease. These new high-tech concepts have been utilized in other Lexus brands.

    The Hybrid Power-train

    Lexus is a global leader in hybrid technologies. A combination of robust gasoline engines and electric motors makes the vehicle accelerate with ease. The silent electric motors can power cars like the Lexus LC-FC and the UX 250h without using any gasoline. The company has even developed a fuel cell powered by compressed hydrogen, creating alternative fuels for the future, and provide an extended warranty for your Lexus that guarantees special offers, including a 50,000 mile or 2-year bumper warranty accompanied with a 12,000-mile free wheel balancing and alignment. These offers lower the maintenance costs for every customer.

    New Aerodynamics

    To further increase handling and performance, Lexus has introduced new aerodynamics innovations. These new improvements focus on mainly minimizing wind resistance, resulting in increased agility. The new aerodynamics have been seen in the new Lexus UX hatchback. All the external body panels are made of composite material and aluminum to save weight. The wind resistance of this car is tested in the biggest aerodynamics tunnel in the globe. All the front panels are designed to suppress vertical air flow, hence increasing the stability, especially when cornering. All the wheels have ventilations that allow free air movement, enabling cooling after breaking, stability, and reduction of side-ways turbulence.

    The Advanced Suspensions

    All Lexus brands are known for their refined, quiet, and smooth ride. The new 7th generation has improved the suspension through an innovative and detailed approach. In the Lexus ES, a shock absorber with a high-tech swing valve has been introduced. This technology has never been tried before in any car. The suspensions will be able to absorb any forces facilitating a comfortable, stable ride on any terrain. These new shock absorbers have an added valve that operates under low-velocity that helps in suppressing the damp external forces. The use of two swing valves in the Lexus ES delivers quality standards by increasing the comfort levels and stability, especially when taking sharp corners.

    SEE ALSO: Hyundai Tucson takes home the prestigious TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS AWARD!

    The new Lexus brands are adopting new-tech solutions that will revolutionize the auto-world. Imagination and extreme perfection have led this company to produce unsurpassed luxury brands. Their engineering has been focusing on effective aerodynamics, advanced suspensions, and new powered engines. These innovations in Lexus will facilitate driving excellence, bringing excitement in all automobiles from their production line.

  • Hyundai Tucson takes home the prestigious TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS AWARD!

    2019 Hyundai TucsonIn one of industry’s most demanding crash tests, 2019 Hyundai Tucson has managed to earn the 2019 TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award, which is a massive upgrade from the already owned 2019 TOP SAFETY PICK. The newly acquired prize was given to Tucson only when equipped with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and LED headlights.

    The brand itself, Hyundai has released 11 vehicles that received the TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award throughout the years. Now, the latest family member who won the prestigious recognition joins 2018 Elantra, Accent, Elantra GT, IONIQ, IONIQ Plug-In Hybrid, Kona, Santa Fe, Santa Fe XL, Sonata and Veloster.

    According to IIHS, the vehicles that earn TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award are the best choices for safety within their size categories. In order to qualify for the recognition, a vehicle must achieve good rates in the driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests. Also, advanced or superior ratings for front crash prevention and good or above headlight rating are a must.

    SEE ALSO: Karma Automotive reveals more details about the goldRush event!

    The vehicle itself offers Hyundai’s own SmartSense safety technologies, which include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, High Beam Assist, Rain-sensing wipers, Surround View Monitor, Smart Cruise Control and Stop-and-Go function.

    Source: Hyundai

  • Mercedes-AMG A45 receives PedalBox from DTE Systems! Details here!

    2019 DTE Systems Mercedes-AMG A45Although being a sexy and agile machine, the A45 AMG has undergone an exclusive upgrade session by the excellent engineers at DTE Systems. The vehicle was fitted with a special PedalBox gadget, which boosts the overall performance rates and contribute to the sportier and more aggressive road behavior. Let’s check out more!

    The tuning box PowerControl RX generates additional 32hp and 65Nm for the massive and final 338hp and 465Nm for the lucky Mercedes A45 AMG. In order to improve vehicle’s performance, the technicians at DTE Systems have accurately connected vehicle’s sensors to the small box, ensuring that the overall performance rates are better than the stock model, all along with improved boost pressure, intake pressure and camshaft sensor.

    2019 DTE Systems Mercedes-AMG A45

    However, what makes this upgrade special is the ensured smartphone control. AMG drivers can be set to an individual DTE mode – for optimizing vehicle’s performance for urban traffic, country lane or motorway. App’s new highlights are real-time engine condition, accelerometer and a g-force measurement. Sweet!

    SEE ALSO: Kahn Design presents Defender “End Edition”!

    With all these upgrades, the lucky AMG speeds from 0 to 100km/h in 4.7 seconds, which means a 10 per cent better time, compared to the stock model. Of course, engine response and overall agility are greatly boosted. And the best thing is that the PedalBox is plugged with only two connectors to the Mercedes accelerator pedal electronics and is immediately ready to use.

    2019 DTE Systems Mercedes-AMG A45

    Source: DTE Systems 

  • G-POWER takes a closer look at a Mercedes-AMG GT R. Details here!

    2019 G-POWER Mercedes-AMG GT RMercedes-AMG, based in Affalterbach, Baden- Württemberg, have hit the bull’s eye with the second solo creation, the GT machine. Even in this stock variant the vehicle is one of the best in the market and has earned mainly positive feedback and tons of recognitions.

    Nevertheless, G-POWER engineers have decided to add a kick to the already performance-excellent system and brought us 800hp and 850Nm beast. Let’s check out more, shall we?

    2019 G-POWER Mercedes-AMG GT R

    This exceptional boost was achieved by combining the Performance Software V4 and a series of hardware modifications to the 4.0-liter M178 twin-turbo V8 under the hood. Along with the HURRICANE RS engine construction, the revised machine comes with weight-optimized forged pistons, a fuel pump fit and modified turbochargers with larger turbine and compressor wheels. There’s also CNC-optimized housings and enhanced compressor turbine blades. Neat!

    2019 G-POWER Mercedes-AMG GT R

    The alterations are no less extensive in the following upgrade program: with all these same hardware modifications, there’s a special Performance Software V3, which results on additional 165hp and 100Nm of torque. However, G-POWER has relied heavily on the software upgrade with this project.

    Also, in order to perfect the dynamic expression of the coupe, G-POWER has installed these well-known “HURRICANE RR” forged rims. These are exceptionally lightweight high-tech aircraft aluminum pieces that not only contribute to the sexy looks, but also reduce the overall vehicle weight. Finished in jet black with high-sheen diamond cut customization, these bad boys are wrapped by Michelin 275/30 ZR20 and 305/25 ZR21 tires.

    SEE ALSO: 2019 Mazda6 takes home a prestigious award. Details here!

    Geared with all kinds of goodies, the G-POWER AMG beast ensures neat performance rates and comfort for driver and passenger – if you also want to refresh your own machine with functional and appealing accessories, check out our friends from Autodoc.co.uk. The wide range of components, brands and bundles will surely impress even G-POWER engineers. Check’em out!

    2019 G-POWER Mercedes-AMG GT R

    Source: G-POWER 

  • 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV receives high rating from NEMPA

    2019 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEVMitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., one of the fastest-growing Asian brands in the US has announced that the 2019 Outlander PHEV received top honors from the New England Motor Press Association at the Winter Vehicle Awards. The machine was recognized as the Best in class Vehicle or PHEV. Something more, this is the second consecutive year in which the Outlander PHEV receives such an award. Let’s check out more, shall we?

    2019 Outlander PHEV is the world’s best-selling plug-in hybrid and brings together neat efficiency and stability, thanks to Mitsubishi’s own Super All-Wheel Control system. This so-called S-AWC system was further fine-tuned for this particular model in order to ensure enhanced traction and performance rates, along with smooth and pleasurable ride.

    2019 Outlander PHEV features a DC Fast Charging component and two AC power outlets, located in the rear seat and cargo area. Standard for the GT trim are the 120V plugs that draw power from the drive battery in order to power any portable appliance, loads of interior space and all around safety and convenience features.

    SEE ALSO: Honda Sensing earns 2019 Passport a 5-Star rating by NHTSA

    During the competition, NEMPA members have managed to test and evaluate many vehicles throughout the winter months in the New England area in order to determine which offers the best winter driving experience. As expected, Outlander PHEV has managed to stand out from the crowd and showcase some outstanding capabilities and functions.

    Source: Mitsubishi 

  • 2019 Mazda6 takes home a prestigious award. Details here!

    2019 Mazda6Insurance Institute for Highway Safety today announced that the 2019 Mazda6 has earned “Top Safety Pick” award when equipped with specific headlights.

    In order to qualify as a winner, a machine should earn good ratings in the driver-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests, all along with a good or acceptable rating for the passenger-side small overlap front test. The final requirement is an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention and a good or acceptable headlight rating.

    What is new for 2019 is that the game-changing i-Activsense feature is a standard for every new Mazda6 model. The suite includes 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.

    New Mazda6 joins new 2019 Mazda3 Sedan and Hatch, 2019 CX-3, 2019 CX-9 as TOP SAFETY PICK winners, while CX-5 remains the higher-tier winner TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award.

    IIHS remains an independent, non-government safety-testing organization, funded by the insurance industry.

    SEE ALSO: Honda Sensing earns 2019 Passport a 5-Star rating by NHTSA

    Headquartered in Irvine, California, Mazda North American Operations supports nearly 700 dealers worldwide. Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

    Source: Mazda 

  • Honda Sensing earns 2019 Passport a 5-Star rating by NHTSA

    2019 Honda Passport The all-new 2019 Honda Passport has managed to achieve the highest 5-star Overall Vehicle Score, the highest safety rating given by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as part of its New Car Assessment Program.

    Passport and other Honda models’ crashworthiness was examined by numerous tests and as it seems, all models have proven themselves worthy – by incorporating Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure and Honda Sensing Suite, all machines have managed to score extremely high scores at all test levels.

    The first technology, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering features a network of front-frame structures designed to absorb and deflect the energy from a frontal collision, while the suite provides greater awareness of driving conditions around the vehicle, in some cases helping drivers maintain lane position and slowing or even stopping when necessary. Honda Sensing is comprised of Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation and Adaptive Cruise Control.

    SEE ALSO: Karma Automotive reveals new Revero GT prior to world debut

    Being a standard for crashworthiness, Honda Sensing suite is now a standard feature for 2019 Passport, Accord, Civic, Clarity, Insight and Pilot lineups. Introduced first with 2015 CR-V, Honda Sensing is surely a game changer with its 2.1 million vehicles sold worldwide.

    2019 Honda Passport

    Source: Honda 

  • 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 

  • 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.