Car Makes – Page 46 – Automobiles Review

SEAT Leon and Ateca models are the great winners at the What Car? Tow Car Awards

2021 SEAT Leon New SEAT Leon and Ateca models are the winners at this year’s What Car? Tow Car Awards for Leon in the “Up to 1400kg” category, and the Ateca in the ‘1550–1699kg’ group.

The new SEAT Leon comes with an elegant new design and an enhanced suite of advanced technologies. Available with petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, the vehicle can also be greately personalized in numerous ways.

Steve Huntingford, Editor at What Car?, said: Stability is the most important thing when towing, and it can be in short supply when a car is light. However, despite being one of the lightest and most affordable models tested this year, the Leon punches well above its weight, pulling a caravan straight and true at 60mph and beyond. Meanwhile, our practicality testers were impressed by the neatly installed retractable tow ball – not a feature you expect from a car at this price.

At the same time, the Ateca model brings some freshness to the mid-size SUV market with its perfect blend between urban capabilities and off-road setup. The model was recognized for its agile drivetrain system and the 4WD system, all along with the revised DSG-auto gearbox.

Commenting on the Ateca’s win, Steve said: Towing also comes easily to the Ateca. Its 2.0 TDI 150PS engine has all the pull you might need to handle any sensibly matched caravan. And even when cruising at the UK towing limit the Ateca feels in complete control.

A real bonus is how enjoyable to drive both cars are when they don’t have a caravan on the back, given that most tow car drivers will spend far more time in everyday driving than towing.

September 17, 2021

Mopar announces a full set of exclusive 2021 Jeep Cherokee L parts and accessories

2021-Jeep-Grand-Cherokee-L-910 Mopar team announces its latest and exclusive factory-backed and super-high quality accessories for the all-new 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L.

The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee L presents a great opportunity for customization and personalization, said Mark Bosanac, North America Vice President, Mopar Service, Parts & Customer Care, Across the entire Jeep Grand Cherokee L lineup, we offer 75 factory-backed, quality-tested accessories.

The Jeep brand continues to shatter expectations of the full-size SUV segment with the all-new 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, said Jim Morrison, Vice President, Jeep Brand North America, Now with a third row of seating for the first time, the newest iteration of the most awarded SUV ever is designed and engineered to deliver an unmatched combination of even more legendary 4×4 capability, superior on-road refinement, premium styling and craftsmanship inside and out.

The full set of goodies include:

New 21-inch wheels (82215994AA | $550 each): Mopar-unique, 21-inch, Granite Crystal wheels feature a five-spoke, triple-split design and include a matching Jeep center cap.

New side steps (82216146AD | $750): Fully integrated side steps, especially designed to flow with the vehicle’s design. Made from black galvanized steel with stainless steel and chrome-flashed overlay, the steps are then powder-coated for a durable finish. The steps attach with three mounting brackets and stud plates on each side, with no drilling required.

Roof-mount cargo basket (TCCAN859 | $350): Providing extra storage capacity when out on the trails, this Canyon version roof basket is 44 inches long x 39 inches wide x 6.5 inches high and features the Jeep logo. Its low-profile design with an integrated wind deflector helps air flow efficiently over cargo. Maximum load capacity is 150 pounds. Mopar cross bars (detailed below) are required to install the roof basket and use of a Mopar basket net (detailed below) to secure cargo is recommended.

Roof-rack cross bars (82216036AB | $300): Black roof-rack cross bars (two per kit) fit vehicles equipped with production side rails and enables attachment of all Mopar roof-mount carriers. Cross bars are finished with a durable powder coat.

Cargo-basket net (82209422AB | $54): Net stretches over the cargo basket to keep contents securely in place. The durable, black, elastic net is held in place with 14 plastic hooks.

Watersport carrier (TCKAY883 | $200): Watersport carrier can transport a kayak, surfboard or sailboard and has multi-position cradles to fit flat or curved hulls. Carrier comes complete with latching and a push-button nylon strap to retain cargo. The accessory attaches easily to Mopar roof-rack cross bars (detailed above).

Bike carrier (TCOES599 | $200): Upright, roof-mounted bike carrier fits one bicycle. Automatic, self-adjusting jaws provide perfect clamping every time. Accommodates bike frames up to 3-1/8 inch in diameter.

Tent kit (82212604 | $390): Blue and gray tent has a 10-by-10-foot sleeping area, overhead storage net, inside pockets, two doors, three large mesh windows, exterior canopy (7 feet by 6 feet), 7-by-6-foot screened room, and a carrying case for easy storage.

Splash guards (Front – 82216018AB | Rear – 82216019AB | $65): Molded-black splash guards (two per set) protect the vehicle from road spray and debris. Rear set features Jeep logo.

All-weather floor mats (82216152AC | $260): Heavy-duty rubber, all-weather floor mats feature a bucket-style design to provide full coverage of carpet in the vehicle’s footwells. Included are two front-row mats, two second-row mats and one third-row runner mat. Mats are black and feature the Jeep logo.

Rear-seat entertainment (82216033AA | $1,625): Rear-seat entertainment includes a roof-mounted DVD player with 10-inch display screen. Also included in the kit is a Seal Gray bezel, mounting bracket with hardware, two Bluetooth headphones and one Bluetooth remote control.

Pet kennel (82213729AC | $190): Collapsible kennel keeps pets secure while traveling. Black nylon mesh construction includes two pockets, carrying handle, three doors, webbing zipper pulls and straps.

Cargo liner (82216020AA | $165): Vinyl cargo liner is black and designed to cover the backs of the second- and/or third-row seats when they are folded down. The liner features the Jeep logo and comes with a storage bag.

Cargo tray (82216149AC | $150): Molded cargo tray covers the entire rear-cargo area behind the third-row seat in order to protect vehicle carpet from water, mud, dirt, grime and stains. Tray is black and features the Jeep logo.

September 17, 2021

50 years of Volkswagen Jetta GLI: what has changed?

2021 Volkswagen Jetta For 50 years, the Jetta has proven itself as one of the most trustworthy and beloved Volkswagen models ever created. Especially popular among the North Americans, the Jetta GLI offers enhanced power and performance, as well as cutting-edge safety and utility features.

The Jetta GLI first arrived in the US back in 1984. Following the success oft the Golf GTI, VW team decided to create a similar sporty version of the Jetta. However, unlike the Golf, the Jetta offers four or five doors, as well as spacious trunk, and ample cargo space.

This meant that the GLI’s first iteration was able to incorporate tons of cutting-edge technologies. Such included a fuel-injected, 90-horsepower, 1.8-liter engine with revised cylinder heads, lighter pistons and higher compression ratio. It also had a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission and improved sports suspension.

Throughout the years, Jetta GLI evolved even more and in 1990 debuted with the first 16-valve, 2.0-liter engine.

Sometime later, the new millennium brought new improvements to the Jetta. Such include 2.8-liter narrow-angle VR6, and an efficient 1.8-liter turbocharged for even later versions. Then the Mk5 was unveiled – the vehicle featured an agile 2.0-liter TSI turbo engine that generated a total of 200hp and came with an independent rear suspension and exclusive 18-inch alloys.

In 2012, Jetta GLI Mk6 was introduced and offered a fully independent rear suspension and luxurious interior.

In 2020, the current generation of Jetta GLI debuted at the Chicago Auto Show, based on the successful MQB platform, offers the 2.0 liter engine out of the GTI with 228 horsepower and an available manual transmission. These Mk7 GLI models feature a VAQ electronically-controlled, torque-sensing, limited-slip differential which hydraulically varies torque to each front wheel, working in tandem with the XDS electronic differential lock to reduce understeer and limit wheelspin. The seventh-generation Jetta GLI includes a plethora of new interior features including available ten-color customizable ambient lighting, heated front seats, and the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit.

For 2022, a midcycle refresh brings Jetta GLI a ton of changes. The refreshed Jetta GLI keeps the 2.0-liter turbo TSI engine, which now delivers 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque and is mated to either the seven-speed DSG automatic or a six-speed manual. The GLI exterior upgrades include a new honeycomb grille and a bumper which encompass the signature GLI red accent lines on either side. The design is rounded out with new 18-inch alloy wheels. GLI interior upgrades refine the sporty appearance of this much-loved model.

September 17, 2021

Porsche is the winner at the J.D. Power APEAL Study for 3rd consecutive year

2021-Porsche-910 Porsche won the top sport with customers among premium brands in the J.D. Power 2021 US Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout Study. This is the third year in a row in which Porsche elands at No.1 ranking in the premium category in the annual study of customer experience with owning and driving a new car.

It is exciting to see drivers connecting with what we think is the best, most complete range of sports cars we’ve ever had, said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America, Inc, This result only encourages us to continue working to deliver dreams that surprise and delight our customers.

The 2021 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study measures the owners’ emotional attachment and level of pleasure with their new vehicle across a comprehensive list of 37 categories and attributes, ranging from the sense of comfort and luxury on climbing on driver’s seat to the power they feel when they step on the gas. All these attributes combine into an overall APEAL index score measured on a 1,000-point scale.

Porsche has managed to earn 882 points on the 1,000-point scale, compared to the premium brand average of 864. The result was a tie with the winner of the mass market category. The study, now in its 26th year, is based on responses gathered from February through July of this year from more than 11,800 users who have shared their impressions after a 90-day ownership period.

September 16, 2021

Ford makes a strategic partnership with MS-RT

2021 Ford MSRT MS-RT, the design-led automotive engineering company with a track record for low volume, premium special edition models in the Commercial Vehicle Sector, is taking the advantage of its exclusive partnership with the Ford team.

The recent productive dialogues will result in seeing the new MS-RT moving onto Ford’s Dagenham estate to undertake further customization, but also will enable MS-RT to lock up its logo with Ford’s Blue Oval, one of the most popular and well-recognized marks in the world.

The senior MS-RT team is currently working with Ford’s Commercial Vehicle engineering team in order to deliver eye-catching MS-RT derivatives of the next-gen Transit Custom and Ranger products.

This fresh collaboration signifies the growth between the two brands and the desire of both to expand their businesses and assure that the latest Ford vehicles will be of the highest quality.

Steve Cootes, MS-RT’s Commercial Director, said: We are delighted to be working so closely with Ford, a company with whom I spent 23 years of my career in the industry. We bring a distinctive, stand-out, and sporty brand of Commercial Vehicles to Ford’s range, and will continue to push boundaries to ensure that owners of MS-RT derivatives are the envy of the sector.

A special 1979 Ford Escort RS2000 is offered from Richard Hammond and The Smallest Cog team

1979 Ford Escort RS 2000 Mk2 Classic Car Auctions offer a special 1979 Ford Escort RS2000 Mk2. This is an exceptional example and is supplied directly from Richard Hammon and his partners at “The Smallest Cog”. The vehicle was originally shipped to the UK, but then spent time in the Isle of Man before becoming a part of a collection in the Republic of Ireland.

Earlier this year, Richard and his team took the car to The London Classic Car Show before recommissioning.

Since then, the example has been recommissioned and prepared for this sale and recently was seen at the Hampton Court Concours D’Elegance where it received mainly positive feedback. The vehicle is recommissioned to exceptionally high standards and is presented in its vibrant Midnight Blue color.

Gary Dunne, CCA’s Sales Manager commented: We are absolutely delighted to once again be offering a spectacular car from Richard Hammond. Not only have The Smallest Cog team transformed the car but it will feature as part of the all-important original docuseries airing on the discovery+ UK later this year.

The recommissioning work includes new interior work done by the renowned Aldridge Trimmers as well as new front suspension and front/rear brakes – further details can be found on CCA’s condition report. The car is sensibly guided at £35,000 – 40,000.

Classic Car Auctions will start their sale at 11 am with viewing days available on Wednesday 22nd – Friday 24th September as well as on the morning of the sale.

September 16, 2021

GM Defense will create a lineup of Heavy-Duty Surburbans for U.S. Government Agencies

2021 GM Defence The US Department of State has awarded the GM Defence LLC, a subsidiary of General Motors, a contract to develop and validate the next generation of Large Support Utility Commercial Vehicles for future fleet production in support of the Department’s Diplomatic Security Service. Also, as a part of the total development contract, GM Defence will create a dedicated Heavy-Duty Suburban model and will build about 10 of these in the next two years.

Leveraging GM’s commercial vehicle architecture that is especially created for full size pickups and large SUVs, GM Defence will use mainly commercial-off-the-shelf parts, including drivetrain parts for its ambitious project. Furthermore, the HD Suburban will come with a new and unique body-on-frame chassis and suspension, specially designed for supporting government vehicles and programs.

Furthermore, GM will use its vast technical knowledge and experience in order to deliver a completely new kind of chassis and frame, as well as some advanced and next-gen technologies.

We’re excited to be developing a fully-integrated, purpose-built HD Suburban in partnership with the U.S. Department of State, said Steve duMont, president of GM Defense, The Chevrolet Suburban has been an iconic name in commercial transportation since 1935. Our development contract win speaks to our long-standing legacy of exceeding transportation capabilities and our new, HD Suburban will deliver government-specific advanced mobility solutions to meet the needs of DSS.

GM Defence will deliver the vehicles in two phases, the first one will begin next spring, while the second one is scheduled for 2023.

Stick with us for further details.

September 16, 2021

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is at first place in the 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems

2021-Jeep-Wrangler-910 The innovative 4xe plug-in hybrid propulsion system in Jeep Wrangler delivers almost silent driving experience, while enhances the off-road capabilities of the vehicle. The system has also been voted a Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems winner in the first year of eligibility.

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe provides 21 miles of zero-emission all-electric range and is EPA rated at 49 miles per gallon-equivalent (MPGe).

Also, within weeks of reaching dealerships, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe became the No. 1 selling PHEV in the United States for the second quarter of 2021. One-quarter of all the Jeep Wranglers built by consumers at jeep.com include the 4xe propulsion system.

This is advanced, environmentally friendly technology that seamlessly fits into anyone’s daily life, said Micky Bly, Stellantis Head of Propulsion Systems, then you take the Jeep Wrangler 4xe off road and it hits you that electrified propulsion and nearly silent running are unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. You won’t want to come off the trails.

Delivering a powertrain that manages torque from three sources and loses nothing from the Jeep Wrangler’s legendary capability is a challenge. We are energized by the response from our customers as well as the recognition from the Wards editors. We’re not finished, there is more to come, Bly said.

The all-new 400-volt plug-in hybrid system makes the Jeep Wrangler 4xe a whole lot more efficient and it compromises nothing on the trail, in its rugged, off-road element, said Tom Murphy, WardsAuto Managing Editor, And on the highway, you need to really pay attention to notice when the 4-cylinder turbo shuts down and you’re sailing along in battery-electric mode. The Jeep Wrangler has always been about crossing difficult terrain to enjoy the great outdoors. With the Wrangler 4xe, Jeep loyalists can feel good about helping preserve the great outdoors as well.

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is a clear example that you can have the best of both worlds: legendary Jeep capability combined with an electrified, ecofriendly package that allows you to enjoy nature in almost absolute silence, said Christian Meunier, Jeep Brand Chief Executive Officer, The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is already a success around the globe and shortly after launch, it became the number one selling PHEV in America, showcasing that 4xe is the new 4×4.

September 14, 2021

Citroen unveils the new C5 Aircross SUV Hybrid PHEV Black Edition model

2021 Citroen C5 Citroen has revealed information about the new C5 Aircross SUV Hybrid PHEV Black Edition, which is already available for order. Given the strong customer demand for more personalization options, Citroen team announces this lineup and the new trim levels coming with it – ‘Shine’, ‘Shine Plus’ and ‘Black Edition’ trim levels.

What makes this model special is the addition of some distinctive goodies like Perla Nera Black contrasting roof and door mirrors, as well as 19-inch black alloy wheels, as well as some interior features like Alcantara-trimmed Comfort seats and numerous more.

In fact, as we mentioned in the cabin, also features an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, including LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, reversing camera, power-folding door mirrors and keyless entry and start. The model also comes with Safety Plus Pack, as standard, which includes blind-spot monitoring and advanced Active Safety Brake with video and radar assistance.

In terms of drivetrain system, the new C5 Aircross SUV Hybrid offers a 180 Stop & Start petrol engine, alongside an 80kW electric motor and a hybrid-specific ë-EAT8 automatic gearbox. In electric mode, C5 Aircross SUV Hybrid is capable of up to 34 miles range (WLTP) on a single charge and features Citroën Advanced Comfort Suspension with the latest multi-arm rear assembly for assured handling.

September 14, 2021

Mazda announces details for the upcoming 2021 CX-5 model lineup

2021 Mazda CX-5 An updated and restyled version of Mazda’s CX-5 is coming our way. The 2022 model lineup is already announced and will feature tons of advanced systems such as Mi-Drive mode selection, enhanced driving dynamics, new design concepts and more pronounced grade differentiation.

One of the most notable additions is indeed the Intelligent Drive Select system, which enables the driver to select the most appropriate driving mode with a simple touch. There are also some grades that come equipped with i-Activ AWD that further enhance the Off-Road Mode, the one perfect for slippery roads.

Also, Mazda’s next-generation of Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture is also available with the new 2022 CX-5, which further enhances the suspension capabilities and contributes to more comfortable rides and reduced fatigue.

The updated CX-5’s range of i-Activsense safety systems now includes Cruising & Traffic Support. The system helps reduce driver fatigue by assisting with the accelerator, brake pedal, and steering operations when stuck in traffic jams. Finally, the front Adaptive LED Headlights (ALH) have also evolved to give finer control over light distribution.

In terms of exterior design, the vehicle comes with an eye-catching three-dimensional grille and this well-known signature wing design. Both the front and rear lamp clusters have also been restyled and are complemented by a new body finish color- Zircon Sand.

Furthermore, the visuals are enhanced by neat silver underguard-style bumpers, black door mirrors, lime green accents and elegant 17- or 19-inch black machine-cut alloys.

September 14, 2021

Subaru reveals the new 2022 WRX lineup

2022 Subaru WRX Subaru of America unveiled the new 2022 WRX, the brand’s vehicle with most advanced features to date. This is the fifth generation of the lineup, which comes with the massive 271hp via a 2.4-liter turbocharged Subaru BOXER engine, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox.

New for the lineup features include 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia system and latest generation EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, as well as an optional new gearbox, electronically controlled dampers that can tailor the dynamic performance to the driver’s preferences with four modes and an entire new platform – the Subaru Global Platform, which improves safety, dynamics, and reductions in noise, vibration, and harshness.

Drivetrain system

For 2022, the WRX model lineup comes with a BOXER engine with horsepower at 5,600 rpm, a broader torque curve with 258 lb-ft of torque from 2,000-5,200 rpm. The engine also comes with an increased displacement and turbocharging system, as well as controlled wastegate and air bypass valves.

As it comes to suspension, the new WRX comes with a fine-tuned system, specially designed to improve the track performance and a new dual-pinion electric power steering system that separates the driver’s input shaft from the motor-assist shaft.

Also, when equipped with summer performance tires on 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels and four-wheel ventilated disc brakes, the 2022 WRX has achieved high levels of performance and ride comfort.

Standard on all trim levels with automatic gearbox is EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, an electric brake booster, Lane Departure Prevention function, Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, and an available Automatic Emergency Steering works in conjunction with a Pre-Collision Braking System.

Exterior design

2022 WRX features a wide body with an aggressive stance and bold look. The front is characterized by the Subaru signature hexagonal grille and the neat new LED headlights design. The prominent lines across the sides and the rear further emphasize the sporty character of the vehicle, while the front fenders are now made of aluminum, which reduces the overall weight and contributes to this neat aggressive look.

Interior design

The cabin is characterized by a black interior theme with red stitching and numerous carbon-fiber elements. The sporty feel is well-pronounced thanks to the flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated switches, as well as the overall clean and straightforward design. 2022 Subaru WRX offers an available 11-Speaker Harman Kardon sound system and an HK 504-watt equivalent amplifier.

2022 Subaru WRX Interior

The new GT trim level

For 2022, the Subaru team also adds a new top-of-the-line GT trim with electronically controlled dampers that can tailor the dynamic performance to the driver’s preferences with Comfort, Normal, and Sport settings. New Drive Mode Select offers additional options to configure steering feel, damper settings, SI-Drive settings, and more, with up to 430 different customization options.

Exclusive to the GT trim level is the new Recaro seats and the new Y-shaped design at the center of the seat backrest. Also, the GT comes with exclusive 18-inch aluminum alloys in a matte gray finish, wrapped by 245/40 R18 summer performance tires.

Standard on GT, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology includes Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control and new Automatic Emergency Steering.

September 13, 2021

Volkswagen Polo: the brand’s elegant car continues to impress both skeptics and enthusiasts

2021 Volkswagen Polo VW Polo is one of the most popular vehicles with its high-quality and agile spirit. Throughout the years, the model has been refreshed and updated with more and more advanced systems being incorporated within the vehicle.

The Polo is currently in its sixth generation, and about 18 million vehicles have been produced since the model’s release in 1975. Now, the latest version incorporates the model’s familiar Y-structure and an elegant contemporary design. There are a total of four engine choices and gearbox configurations – all 1.0-litre, three-cylinder petrol engines, ranging in power output from 80 PS to 110 PS.

A five-speed manual gearbox is mated to the entry-level 80 PS, 93 Nm unit, while the 95 PS, 175 Nm power plant is available with both 5-speed manual and 7-speed DSG transmissions. The range-topping 110 PS, 200 Nm engine is available exclusively with the 7-speed DSG, and ahead of the Polo GTI, is the most rapid Polo in the range, taking 10.4 seconds to reach 62 mph.

In terms of equipment, the latest generation of Polo vehicles is geared with numerous safety and utility systems such as Travel Assist, LED headlights, Adaptive Cruise Control and an 8.0-inch Digital Cockpit. There are also two front and two rear USB sockets, power-folding, adjustable and heated door mirrors, and automatic rain-sensing wipers, all included as standard.

As with any contemporary VW model, the new Polo can be further personalized with a range of exclusive options – some include vibrant colors, other exclusive alloy wheels, and all other styling goodies. Others include Assistance systems such as a rear-view camera and a pack bundling together Park Assist, Proactive Passenger Protection, and other features and a Sports Suspension Pack, which incorporates more dynamic suspension, the XDS electronic differential lock first introduced on the Golf GTI, and Driving Profile Selection.

Category: Car Makes

Drivetrain system

Exterior design

Interior design

The new GT trim level