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Car Makes

  • 2022 Hyundai Tucson receives TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS by the IIHS

    2021 Hyundai TucsonHyundai’s best-selling SUV, the 2022 Tucson, won the 2021 TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Tucson was recognized for its overall excellent crashworthiness, LED headlights and standard SmartSense suite crash prevention features. 2022 Tucson joins the 2021 Palisade and NEXO, which also have earned TSPP. In fact, the Hyundai brand have managed to collect a total of 14 TSP and TSPP awards.

    Hyundai’s commitment to ‘safety first is our highest priority, said Brian Latouf, chief safety officer, Hyundai Motor North America. We are extremely proud of the 2022 Tucson’s recent TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating and continuing Hyundai’s industry leadership in IIHS awards. Our commitment to safety is paramount.

    In order to qualify for the recognition, a vehicle must earn at least earn good ratings in all six IIHS crash-worthiness evaluations, including the driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side roof strength, and head restraint tests. Also, vehicles must be available with a front crash prevention system that earns advanced or superior ratings in both the vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluations and good or acceptable headlights must be standard across all trim levels, regardless of trim level.

    The Tucson is available with two different front crash prevention systems, one standard and one optional, said Joe Young, public affairs, IIHS. Both systems earned superior ratings in the vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluations.

  • Lotus showcases new Emira at the Monterey Car Week

    2021 Lotus EvijaThe new Lotus Emira, the latest petrol-powered vehicle from the premium brand, makes its US debut at the Monterey Car Week. The flagship machine will also make a debut at the legendary Laguna Seca Raceway.

    Also, the audience at the show will see the Evija, the brand’s pure-electric hypercar that takes the central stage in California with an eye-catching new livery that resonates with the US motorsport fans. Indeed, the vehicle is covered with yellow and blue accents, all inspired by the Type 99T from 1987 – the vehicle in which F1 legend Ayrton Senna won that year’s Detroit Grand Prix.

    The 99T also featured advanced computer-controlled suspension, which allowed the vehicle to ride the bumpy and technically demanding street circuit. This particular vehicle and the win it achieved became legendary among F1 fans and showed that the Lotus team has this innovative and very effective approach towards technical matters.

    SEE ALSO: Mercedes-Benz presents exclusive SL models at the Concours d’Elegance

    This is the second time the Evija has appeared at the Monterey Car Week. Just weeks after it was revealed in July 2019 in California, the vehicle is now ready for its display at the event, and then heads towards Japan, China and the Middle East.

  • Mercedes-Benz presents exclusive SL models at the Concours d’Elegance

    2021-Concours-d'Elegance-Mercedes-Benz-910This year’s annual Monterey Car Week at the Pebble Beach Golf Club will be a host of an exclusive lineup of Mercedes-Benz lineup. The main focus is on the SL models – examples of several generations will be presented, including 300 SL racing sports car from 1952 and the legendary 300 SL Roadster from 1957 to an SL 55 AMG of 2003.

    In fact, the entire SL lineup has a close connection with the USA. Back in 1953, Max Hoffman believed that a sports car from Mercedes would make a successful run on the American market. This idea resulted in two models – 190 SL (W 121) and the 300 SL (W 198). The idea worked out: more than 85% of the vehicles were exported to the USA.

    In the USA, people expect Mercedes-Benz, a company with a particularly good name in that country, to offer under all circumstances a sports car which alone can provide a basis for the existence of the dealer organization.

    Currently, at the 2021 event, Mercedes-Benz will present six vehicles from the SL heritage collection in connection with Concours d’Elegance. These vehicles are:

    • Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W 194) #11: the racing prototype further developed for the 1953 season – a true one-off.
    • Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W 198), 1957
    • Mercedes-Benz 280 SL “Pagoda” (W 113), 1969
    • Mercedes-Benz 380 SL (R 107), 1982
    • Mercedes-Benz SL 500 (R 129), special model for the USA, the “Silver Arrow Edition”, 2001
    • Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG (R 230), 2003

    Also, the Mercedes-Benz team will be presenting some more valuable classics from the brand’s heritage. Enthusiasts will have the chance to see:

    SEE ALSO: Volkswagen is about to debut the SUV coupe ID.5 GTX at the IAA

    • Mercedes-Benz S Tourer (W 06), 1927
    • Mercedes-Benz SS Armbruster Cabriolet (W 06), 1927
    • Mercedes-Benz 680 S Saoutchik Torpedo (W 06), 1928
    • Mercedes-Benz 680 S Gangloff Sport 4 (W 06), 1929
    • Mercedes-Benz S Barker Tourer (W 06), 1929
    • Mercedes-Benz SS Erdmann & Rossi Roadster (W 06), 1930
    • Mercedes-Benz SSK “Count Trossi” Roadster (W 06), 1930
    • Mercedes-Benz 38/250 SSK Roadster (W 06), 1931
    • Mercedes-Benz 500 K Special Roadster (W 29), 1936
    • Mercedes-Benz 540 K Special Roadster (W 29), 1937
    • Mercedes-Benz 540 K “Autobahnkurier” (W 29), 1938
    • Mercedes-Benz 300 S Coupé (W 188), 1952
    • Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing” (W 198), 1954
    • Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing” (W 198), 1955
    • Mercedes-Benz 230 SL Pininfarina Coupé (W 113), 1964

  • Volkswagen is about to debut the SUV coupe ID.5 GTX at the IAA

    2021 Volkswagen ID.5 GTXVolkswagen presents the new ID.5 GTX – the vehicle is about to make its debut on the 7th of September at the IAA Munich Motor Show. This is the brand’s first SUV to be based on the Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) and is expected to showcase some neat new technologies and features.

    Exterior design

    At the front, the vehicle showcases a new IQ.Light LED matrix lights design that generates an intelligently controlled beam and gives the vehicle this elegant look. Also, the flat sloping A pillars at the right and near the front give an elegant flow of the roofline and stretches over the body, and taper out in an integrated rear spoiler. At the rear, there are horizontal lines that accenturate the width of the vehicle and attract attention with the light strip. The design is completed with a set of LED rear lights with a 3D design.

    A new approach with a GTX badge

    GTX means enhanced athleticism and high performance. The vehicle will continue the tradition to bring electrified solutions to the GTI, GTD, and GTE models and proceed towards electrified transition.

    SEE ALSO: Mitsubishi improves its ranking in top 10 for Best Car Manufacturer in 2021 Driver Power

    As it seems VW aims to become the most popular brand in terms of sustainability and electrification. The goal is to increase the share of all-electric vehicles and to become a carbon-neutral brand by 2050.

  • Mitsubishi improves its ranking in top 10 for Best Car Manufacturer in 2021 Driver Power

    2021-Mitsubishi-Outlander-910Mitsubishi Motors in the UK has improved its rankings in the Auto Express 2021 Driver Power Survey to secure a top ten placement in the best car manufactures. At the moment the brand is placed at the 8th position, which is an improvement of 8 places from 2020 and 13 from 2019.

    The Auto Express 2021 Driver Power Survey is in its 20th year and provides detailed responses from vehicle owners and this year debut an additional focus on the in-car technology and a new assessment for value for money.

    Customers and Mitsubishi enthusiasts have listed the overall low running costs, along with the enhanced reliability and good overall build quality as the main strengths of Mitsubishi. Other features that receive positive feedback are the boot space, interior storage space, and smooth gearbox systems.

    Steve Fowler, Editor-in-Chief, Auto Express said: Mitsubishi has done brilliantly to climb the Driver Power league table over the past few years and sit in an impressive eighth place this year. Its owners are clearly a happy bunch praising the reliability, quality and practicality of their cars and say that running costs are good, too. That all makes it more of a shame that the brand is withdrawing from the UK market later this year.

    SEE ALSO: Kia reveals the exclusive Soul EV Boardmasters Edition

    Following the announcement of going up the ranks, Mitsubishi drivers will see no change in the standards of services they receive by the brand and will continue to meet their high expectations.

     

  • Kia reveals the exclusive Soul EV Boardmasters Edition

    2021 Kia Soul EV Boardmasters EditionKia has revealed the Soul EV Boardmasters Edition, a recycled and pre-production car saved from the crusher to instead live out on the beach.

    Designed exclusively for surfers, the Soul EV is a special vehicle that features a zero-emission drivetrain system and generates a total of 201hp via a 64kWh long-range battery pack.

    In terms of design, the Soul EV features an exclusive set of 17-inch aluminum alloys and 215/55 R17 tires, raised ground clearance, muscular proportions, and yet elegant appearance.

    One of the most striking features is the exclusive steel roof rack. Created out of lightweight steel, the rack has been hand-crafted exclusively for the Soul EV Boardmasters Edition in order to accommodate a pair of 7ft9 Tahe Bic Malibu surfboards. The shape and low profile allow the vehicle to avoid overhead height restrictors and enable the tailgate to open fully to access the boat.

    SEE ALSO: Bentley will unveil new models at this year’s Monterey Car Week

    There are also significant changes to the suspension and drivetrain system that altogether contribute to the overall performance and give a kick to the electric range of the vehicle. Also, thanks to the 64kWh battery pack and efficient motor, the Boardmasters Edition vehicle will offer greater more range compared to other EVs in the same category and class.

     

  • Bentley will unveil new models at this year’s Monterey Car Week

    2021 Bentley Monterey Car WeekBentley team returns to live events with a set of global debuts at this year’s Monterey Car Week, with a focus on the brand’s bespoke division, Bentley Mulliner. One of the stars at shows will be a Bentley 8-Litre, which also won the Best of Show at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

    The audience at the event will also see Bentley’s new hybrid lineup – Bentayga Hybrid, and the new Flying Spur Hybrid.

    Other neat Bentley machines will also make their debut at the Monterey Car Week – the sporty Bentayga S, and one of the world’s most advanced grand tourers – the Continental GT Speed Convertible. This machine will be featured in coupe and convertible styles.

    Also, as part of the program, Bentley will launch a new member of the Bentley Mulliner Collections portfolio that will take place at the Home of Bentley in Monterey.

    Alongside the models, Bentley Mulliner programs will appear together for the first time, both in their American debut. The Bentley Mulliner Bacalar, an exclusive Barchetta, and the first member of the Coachbuilt portfolio will be shown alongside the beautiful pre-WWII continuation project, the Blower Continuation Series.

    SEE ALSO: Czinger 21C makes a record lap at WeatherTech Laguna Seca Raceway

    Furthermore, each project will be represented by its creative “Car Zero” and a new exclusive color – Scarab Green.

  • Kia announces official automotive partnership with Boardmasters Festival

    2021 Kia e-NiroKia has been named an official partner for Boardmasters, the Cornish surf and music festival. This event takes place in Newquay, Cornwall on Fishtail Beach, the home of British surfing, 11-15 August. The partnership provides the perfect opportunity for Kia to share its new “Movement that Inspires” concept as the brand looks forward to an electric-only future.

    David Hilbert, Marketing Director for Kia UK comments, “Partnering with Boardmasters is an exciting new step for Kia. Thanks to its celebration of surfing, creativity and sustainability, the festival is a perfect match for Kia and our new ‘Movement that inspires’ brand purpose. Through this strategic partnership, we will add to the festival experience with a schedule of activities and classes to inspire and invigorate visitors to Boardmasters this August, with an activation space designed to encourage people to engage more closely with notions of sustainable mobility.”

    The event will host a timetable of exclusive classes and experiences for visitors and surfing enthusiasts, as well as a place for all kinds of activities.

    SEE ALSO: Czinger 21C makes a record lap at WeatherTech Laguna Seca Raceway

    Kia will also exhibit some of its coolest vehicles – the best-selling EV, the Kia e-Niro, and an EV Concept, created especially for this festival. This vehicle will be unveiled days ahead of the event.

  • Bentley brings an exclusive Bentayga Hybrid to The Macallan Estate

    2021 Bentley Bentayga HybridBentley has delivered a new Bentayga Hybrid, an exclusive model with bespoke Mulliner details, to the Macallan Estate in Speyside, Scotland. Following the announcement last month of a long-term partnership between the two brands, the vehicle is the first of two estate cars to be matched with a Flying Spur Hybrid.

    The vehicle will be used on-site for exclusive Estate experience, and VIP transfers, all in silent and sustainable luxury. The car has been specified to match the colors of Macallan Estate and features a rich dark metallic green and glossy black treatment for all exterior nightwear. Also notable are the vehicle’s 22-inch Mulliner Driving Specification Black Painted and Bright Machined Wheels.

    The interior follows the same idea and showcases Porpoise and Cumbrian Green hides offset with neat Liquid Amber veneer. All four seats come with Macallan’s Easter Elchies House mark, representing the 18th century Highland Manor home, created by precision embroidery using Cumbrian Green thread to contrast against the Porpoise leather.

    Also, on opening the doors, Bentley’s LED Welcome Lights project the same Easter Elchies House mark to the floor, outlined in pin-sharp white light.

    SEE ALSO: New VW Tiguan eHybrid can be ordered from today!

    The new Bentayga Hybrid is the first of a series of Bentleys that will take up residence at The Macallan Estate. Later this year, the Bentayga will be joined by a new and exclusive Flying Spur Hybrid, specified to match by using the same colour palette and personalized details. Bentley will replace these Estate cars twice a year, introducing new colors and designs along the way.

    2021 Bentley Bentayga Hybrid

     

  • New VW Tiguan eHybrid can be ordered from today!

    2021 Volkswagen TiguanThe Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid is already available for purchase from customers. The latest addition to the VW’s hybrid is a key unit to the brand’s Way to Zero concept. With a CO2 output of just 38g/km and a fuel economy of up to 176.6mpg, the new Tiguan is definitely an appealing vehicle for both VW skeptics and enthusiasts.

    The eHybrid comes with an agile 1.4-liter TSI petrol unit and a powerful electric motor, which together contribute to a total of 245hp, and 250Nm of torque available between 1,550 and 3,500rpm. Also, it can be specified in Life, Elegance, and R-Line trim, with respective emissions of 38, 43, and 41 g/km.

    The electric range of the vehicle is about 30 miles and the battery can be charged in about five hours from empty.

    Depending on the trim level, the vehicle comes with different features as part of the standard equipment The entry Life level offers -zone automatic climate control, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Front Assist, front and rear parking sensors, and a Discover Media Navigation infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touch-screen, IQ. Light LED matrix headlights with multiple lighting modes.

    Elegance adds up heating function for the steering wheel, 30-colour ambient lighting throughout the cabin, electric boot opening and closing function, with sensor for hands-free access to the load area, keyless entry with start/stop button on the centre console, and Volkswagen’s 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro TFT dashboard display. A suite of systems to assist the driver is also standard on the Elegance model – a rear-view camera, Side Assist, rear traffic alert, and Predictive Cruise Control, which uses road sign recognition and navigation data to automatically alter the preset speed to the legal limit, as well as safely, pre-emptively slowing for bends, roundabouts, and junctions.

    The performance-focused R-Line offers the top specification. Customers will benefit from a roof spoiler, exclusive front, and rear bumpers and wheel arch extensions, black roof lining, and R-Line badging across the interior, as well as the same ambient lighting, keyless entry, Digital Cockpit Pro, Side Assist, rear traffic alert, and Predictive Cruise Control features brought by the Elegance model. Finally, 20-inch ‘Misano Black’ alloy wheels set the R-Line apart from the other trim levels.

    SEE ALSO: This year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed pays homage to its 70th anniversary 

    Nick O’Neill, Head of Fleet at Volkswagen UK, said: The brilliant Tiguan is already regarded as a great all-rounder, and with the introduction of the Tiguan eHybrid this appeal is boosted even further. Our latest plug-in hybrid brings a fleet-friendly 11-13% BIK taxation rate (depending on specification) and low running costs to its long list of skills and attributes. It’s not just fleet managers and company car drivers who will love the Tiguan eHybrid though – the family-friendly Tiguan is up for almost any challenge life can throw at it, and now there’s the flexibility of local trips with zero-tailpipe-emissions to add to the list.

     

  • Mecum will Auction the first Acura NSX Type S for Charity

    2022-Acura-NSX-Type-S-910Acura announced that it will auction off the first-ever produced 2022 NSX Type S during Monterey Car Week. Making its debut on the 12th of August, during Monterey Car Week, the 2022 NSX Type S is the brand’s most advanced and performance-focused street-legal Acura NSX ever created.

    The lineup comes in a limited run of merely 350 units and will be available worldwide, as 300 will be offered in the US. Every unit is produced at the Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio and is geared with a twin-turbo V-6 and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system.

    Mecum Auctions’ event held at the Monterey Car Week, also known as The Daytime Auction, will run Aug. 12-14 and take place at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on Del Monte Golf Course.

    SEE ALSO: McLaren pays tribute to the first Speedtail attribute prototype, Albert

    Acura is proud to help inspire America’s next generation of designers, engineers and manufacturers through the expansion of STEAM education in underserved communities, Vice President and Acura Brand Officer Jon Ikeda said. We hope to help them discover the possibilities of their own futures, especially those students who have not had sufficient access to these types of programs due to COVID and other socio-economic factors.

  • McLaren pays tribute to the first Speedtail attribute prototype, Albert

    2021-McLaren-Albert-910McLaren Special Operations unveils the “Albert” Speedtail, an exclusive commission by Mclaren Beverly Hills.

    This is one of the final vehicles in the 106-car Speedtail production run and it pays homage to the first Speedtail car from 2018. The vehicle was developed in order to validate the concept of the Speedtail’s central seat position, and to enhance the driving ergonomics and visibility.

    In terms of exterior, the design team decided to go with camouflage coverage and with a simple two-metre vinyl body wrap with design lines that represent the optimized airflow of the body. Also, some of the exclusive colors include a Magnum Silver, the color of the F1 road car that was first unveiled back in 1992 at the Monaco Grand Prix and Ueno Grey, the choice for the F1 GTR that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans back in 1995.

    New Albert is built by McLaren Production Centre and features numerous carbon-fibre components, complex and detailed paintwork, and, as expected advanced drivetrain system.

     The name Albert has a special resonance with MSO, as we are the custodians of the McLaren F1 and are based at the Albert Drive premises that McLaren Cars occupied in the 1990s. The Speedtail experience has been an exciting journey for our customers, from visualising their imaginations to realising these inspirations and sharing their delight when unveiling the finished product. ‘Albert’ brings this project to a conclusion and we are thrilled to finish on a high note.
    Ansar Ali, Managing Director, McLaren Special Operations

    SEE ALSO: AC Cobra Series 1 Electric will make its debut at The British Motor Show

    The Albert Speedtail will make its public debut at Sunset GT, hosted by O’Gara Beverly Hills, which takes place on Sunday 8th August 2021 in Sunset Plaza, Los Angeles, USA.