Automobiles Review

Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

Vauxhall team advances with the tests of the new Astra model

The all-new Astra is about to complete its test programme at the frozen arctic in the Swedish Lapland, and ready to undergone the next stage of laboratory experiments.

With this new model, Vauxhall demonstrates how precise engineering should be done and how an elegant design can go hand in hand with advanced drivetrain system.

The winter tests

Over the cold months, Vauxhall engineers have made comprehensive tests in Lapland with temperatures often remaining below -30 degrees.

Such harsh conditions have helped engineers make the best possible extreme tests and fine-tune the vehicle in such a way that comfort and stability are always ensured.

During the stay in Lapland, Vauxhall specialists were joined by their colleagues from “HVAC” (heating, ventilation and air conditioning). One of HVAC’s goals was to make sure that the passenger compartment warms up quickly and remains such during long periods of time. The team was paying close attention to Astra’s engine heat rejection, coolant flow, heater core performance and blower airflow.

The Dudenhofen tests

After the evaluations in Sweden came to an end, the team moved to Dudenhofen, Germany where engineers were able to test out Astra’s “ADAS” (Automated Driver Assistance Systems). The Dudenhofen test centre provided the opportunity for fine calibration of all systems –Adaptive Cruise Control, Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Assist.

SEE ALSO: Porsche showcases new Cayenne Turbo GT

Stick with us for further information.

July 1, 2021
Porsche showcases new Cayenne Turbo GT

Porsche introduces a new high-performance variant of the Cayenne range – the Turbo GT. This vehicle blends excellent performance rates via its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 power unit and the advanced drivetrain technologies incorporated in the vehicle. New Cayenne Turbo GT generates a total of 631hp and a total of 626lb-ft of torque and can speed up from 0 to 100km/h in mere 3.1 seconds and chase a top speed of 186 km/h.

The new Turbo GT is available only with Coupe body style and is equipped with an array of performance-enhancing systems like fine-tuned suspension systems and high-performance tires, both exclusively made for this particular model. The result is a high performance with enhanced stability and comfort.

The suspension components and the electronically controlled chassis systems are specially calibrated and the three-chamber air suspension is up to 15 percent stiffer, compared to previous models. Also, the Active Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control has been re-tuned to reduce body roll and ensures more precise turn-in at higher cornering speeds. The Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus is also redesigned and sharpens the handling capabilities and turn-in response.

As it comes to the engine, the powerful V8 is currently the most powerful one offered by Porsche. The most significant optimizations were made on the crankshaft, turbochargers, and direct fuel injection systems as well as on the intake and charge-air cooling.

SEE ALSO: Ram announces the exclusive 2022 1500 Limited 10th Anniversary Edition

In terms of visuals and design, the new Cayenne Turbo GT is available in Arctic Grey. Notable features include a GT-specific front fascia with a number of model-specific cues. The front-end features a pronounced front lip and a larger set of side intakes. Notable details include a contoured carbon-fiber roof, black fender arches, and neat 22-inch GT Design wheels in Nodame. The upper rear wing features side plates in carbon fiber and an adaptive rear spoiler with a two-inch gurney flap, twice the size of the one seen on the Cayenne Turbo Coupe.

The Turbo GT is already available for order and is expected to reach US dealers in early 2022.

July 1, 2021
Ram announces the exclusive 2022 1500 Limited 10th Anniversary Edition

Ram is commemorating a decade of high-end pickups with the introduction of the new exclusive 2022 1500 Limited 10^th Anniversary Edition

Featuring tons of premium materials, components, and gadgets, the special edition comes with real wood inserts, metal and leather components, and many customization options. Some of the exclusive goodies are Blue Shade exterior color, multifunctional tailgate, Mopar central-mounted bed step, and adjustable cargo tie.

The interior also received special attention and welcomes drivers and passengers to a rather cozy and functional space. Some of the features include segment-exclusive leather-wrapped seats and door inserts, a new suede headliner, A-pillar, and special visors. Furthermore, the 10^th Anniversary edition features a new Indigo/Sea Salt Grey cabin color with aluminum Litho bezels, a unique shifter central cap, a 19-speaker premium audio system, and more.

SEE ALSO: Acura team earns podium finishes at the 99th Running of Pikes Peak Hill Climb

In terms of drivetrain system, Ram 1500 Limited 10th Anniversary Edition comes with a 5.7-liter V-8 with an eTorque mild-hybrid assist or 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine.

Stick with us for further details!

June 30, 2021
Acura team earns podium finishes at the 99th Running of Pikes Peak Hill Climb

Acura team retains its strong positions at the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, with two podium finishes in the Exhibition Class. Competing on a short course due to adverse weather, all four Acura vehicles reached the finish line with exceptionally good times.

Making its race debut, the Acura TLX Type S, driven by Jordan Guitar, finished third in the Exhibition class, while Justin Lumbard finished second with his TLX Type S. Nick Robinson finished 2^nd in the race, while his brother, James, finished at the 4^th place.

There was also a third TLX Type S vehicle that served as an official Pikes Peak pace vehicle, leading racers towards the 14,115m summit. Driven by the TV star Ant Anstead, the TLX Type S pace car vowed crowds with its advanced turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, striking Tiger Eye paint job, and custom graphics.

Furthermore, Acura engineers volunteered their time to compete at the annual Pikes Peak Hill Climb event, using the opportunity to test the new Acura performance technologies.

SEE ALSO: PEUGEOT announces details for the new 308 SUV

Acura Motorsport programs have been a vital part of the Acura brand since its launch back in 1986. The legacy of the brand includes 1991, 1992, and 1993 IMSA Camel Lights manufacturer/driver championships, and the 2009 American LeMans manufacturer, driver, and team championships in both the LMP1 and LMP2 classes.

June 30, 2021
PEUGEOT announces details for the new 308 SUV
PEUGEOT announces more details for the new 308, available with plug-in hybrid engines and tons of neat features.

Alongside the hybrid options, customers can also choose from efficient petrol and diesel engines. They hybrid units are a HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 (From Allure) or the more powerful, HYBRID 225 e-EAT8 (From GT), with both vehicles powered by a 12.4kWh electric battery and a 1.6-litre petrol engine. Furthermore, all PHEV variants come with a 3.7kW on-board charger as a standard.

Elegant Design

In terms of aesthetics, the new 308 features a distinctive design and wider body proportions, compared to previous models. The vehicle showcases the new PEUGEOT emblem, and new LED design lights. Also, as it demonstrates a revised body language with passionate lines and beautiful curves.

The interior, on the other hand, features PEUGEOT’s innovative i-Cockpit configuration with a new multifunctional steering wheel and a 10-inch HD capacitive color touch screen. Also, the cabin features brand’s trademark “Piano Key” controls alongside the new i-Toggles.

SEE ALSO: SKODA updates the Kodiaq SUV: here’s a quick look at what’s new

Safety and assistance features
- New 308 models feature the following safety and driver assistance technologies:
- Programmable cruise control and speed limiter
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Speed limit & traffic sign recognition and recommendation
- Driver attention warning
- Intelligent Speed Adaptation
- Active Safety Brake with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- AVAS: Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (PHEV models only)
June 30, 2021
SKODA updates the Kodiaq SUV: here’s a quick look at what’s new

SKODA team has updated its Kodiaq model and now the latest family member comes with a neat body design, advanced technologies, and neat utility features. Let’s find out more, shall we?

Exterior design

The vehicle demonstrates a bold design language with aluminum-effect details, wide-body inserts, and neat details. The front reveals a new face design with a redesigned hexagonal grille and new and slimmer leadlight design. Furthermore, the 20-inch Sagitarius alloys enhance the overall sporty silhouette, just like the elegant curves and neat lines. At the rear, there is a new glossy black spoiler and neat side finlets on the rear window for enhanced styling expression and drag reduction capabilities.

Interior design

New Skoda also comes with a fully redesigned cabin that now offers even more comfort and utility features. For the first time, the brand equips a Kodiaq vehicle with ergonomic front seats and LED ambient lighting.

There’s also a leather steering wheel with two or three spokes and new functions like knurled wheel buttons, DSG shift paddles, and an optional 10-speaker CANTON audio system with a total output of 625 watts.

Drivetrain system

Depending on the trim level, the new Kodiaq can be geared with a total of two diesel engines and three petrol units. The diesels are 2.0-liter TDI engines that generate either 150hp or 200hp of output and are mated to a 7-speed DSG. The petrol units are consistent of a 1.5-liter TSI with 150hp output and mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, a 190hp unit, and a 245 engine, both coming with AWD and DSG 7-speed automatic gearboxes. All engines in the lineup are Euro 6d compliant.

Safety features

The refreshed SKODA Kodiaq offers tons of improved assistance and safety features like nine airbags, Travel Assist suite with Predictive Cruise Control, Adaptive Lane Assist and an improved version of Traffic Sign Recognition.

SEE ALSO: 2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing ensures extreme downforce capabilities

When it comes to assistance systems, the new SKODA Kodiaq features Front Assist suite with Predictive Pedestrian Protection and City Emergency Brake function. Other systems include Travel Assist with Adaptive Cruise Control, Stop and Go function, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Adaptive Lane Assist.

June 30, 2021
2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing ensures extreme downforce capabilities
Cadillac’s fastest and most agile subcompact sports sedan, the 2022 CT4-V Blackwing is available for purchase with exclusive carbon-fiber packages and ensures exceptional agility and aesthetics, thanks to the reduction of lift and the increase of downforce.

The pack is available in two variants and was developed using a new five-belt rolling-road wind tunnel at the GM Technical Center in warren, Michigan, as well as the Wndshear tunnel in North Carolina. The result is the highest level of aerodynamic downforce ever produced by a Cadillac V-Series production vehicle.

The upgrade is based on the multi-championship-winning Cadillac Racing DPi-V.R race car. The tests have included more than 500 hours of wind tunnel experiments and 300 simulations using advanced computer technologies. The incorporation of virtual reality technology also allowed Cadi engineers to enhance the tests and bring us the optimal final result.

Aerodynamic components include:
- Front underwing
- Front dive planes
- An 18 mm sidewall controls air and directs vortices downstream to better manage airflow.
- Rear spoiler
- Curvature tuned for the creation of downforce without the addition of bolt on components.
- V-Series Blackwing grille mesh
- Brake cooling ducts
- Fender vents
- front splitter, rocker moldings and extensions, and rear diffuser
- Flat underbody
- Rear control arm covers
Carbon Fiber Package #1 includes:
- Front dive planes
- Underwing strakes
- Extra-aero front splitter
- Front-wheel deflectors
- Extra-aero rear spoiler
Carbon Fiber Package #2 includes:
- Rocker extensions
- Rear valance diffuser
SEE ALSO: Citroen announces new details for the upcoming C3 Aircross SUV

In addition, the CT4-V Blackwing is driven by a Cadillac 3.6L Twin-Turbo V6, which generates 472 horsepower (352 kW) and 445 lb-ft of torque (603 Nm). There’s also an advanced, track-tested high-performance braking system, as well as an enhanced electronic limited-slip rear differential.
June 29, 2021
Citroen announces new details for the upcoming C3 Aircross SUV

Citroën launches the new C3 Aircross SUV, the brand’s advanced vehicle with a host of exterior and interior updates, including a redesigned front and rear design. Based on the CXPERIENCE concept vehicle, the new C3 Aircross features a similar design language. Distinctive and functional, the vehicle offers 100 percent electric performance.

Some of the notable features include chrome-trimmed chevrons and elegant LED headlights. New C3 Aircross USV also comes with a new bumper and radiator grille designs, and tons of sleek modifications to the body. Furthermore, the vehicle is available with either16- or 17-inch alloy wheels and three new body finishes – Voltaic Blue, Anodized Orange, and Anodized Dark blue.

In addition, the vehicle is available with three trim levels, ‘C-Series’, ‘Shine’ and ‘Shine Plus’, with every model enjoying tons of standard features. All models in the lineup are geared with alloy wheels, LED headlights, rear parking sensors, cruise control, lane departure warning, and smartphone incorporation.

Shine adds up Active Safety Brake system, a new and larger nine-inch touchscreen, and Flex Load/Pull Out boot floor.

SEE ALSO: Jeep announces new Wrangler Xtreme Recon Package

The range-topping Shine Plus model comes with keyless entry and start, Advanced Comfort seats, Front Parking Sensors, reverse camera, and exclusive 17-inch alloys.

Stick with us for further details!!

June 29, 2021
Jeep announces new Wrangler Xtreme Recon Package
Jeep vehicles come with exceptional 4×4 capabilities and the brand doesn’t stop to impress both skeptics and enthusiasts. For Jeep’s 80^th anniversary this year, team will unveil new Wrangler Xtreme Recon Package at the 2021 Chicago Auto Show on July, 14^th.

For the first time ever, the new Jeep Wrangler Xtreme Recon Package delivers 35-inch tires straight from the factory, said Jim Morrison, Vice President, Jeep Brand North America. We have been listening to and watching our customers make this one of the most popular modifications to their Wranglers, and now we will deliver this exciting new package, along with an industry-first 100:1 crawl ratio, off the showroom floor at our Jeep dealerships.

The new Jeep Wrangler Xtreme Recon Package includes:
- LT315/70R17C (35-inch) BF Goodrich KO2 All-Terrain Tires
- 17-inch x 8-inch Beadlock Capable Wheels
- 4.56:1 Axle Ratio
- 1.5-inch Factory Suspension Lift with uniquely tuned shocks
Customers can already order the new Jeep Wrangler Xtreme Recon pack and install it on both Wrangler Rubicon 4-door and Wrangler Rubicon 392 models.

SEE ALSO: BMW will reveal many new models at this year’s GoodWood festival

Furthermore, there’s a new 4.88:1 axle ratio available for the Rubicon. When mated to the six-speed manual gearbox, this optional axle ratio delivers a class-leading 100:1 crawl ratio for increased wheel torque and control when navigating among off-road obstacles. The 4.88:1 axle ratio will be available for ordering later in 2021.
June 28, 2021
BMW will showcase many new models at this year’s GoodWood festival

BMW will celebrate the return of the Festival of Speed this year with a rather special premiere at GoodWood. The new BMW 2 Series Coupe will make a global debut on the 8^th of July 2021 on the famous 1.16km. course.

The vehicle will continue the tradition to deliver us a performance-focused machine with outstanding driving dynamics, neat interior and exterior styling, and, of course, a ton of modern technologies.

Alongside the new BMW 2 Series Coupe, the audience will have the chance to see the new BMW M5 CS, the most advanced incarnation of the BMW M5 with a 635hp 4.4-liter V8 power unit that allows the vehicle to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 3.0-seconds.

Also, visitors will see the new BMW iX, the model that represents the flagship electrified vehicle of BMW. Conceived from purely electric mobility and sustainable manufacturing technologies, the iX blends emission-free driving and sporty agility.

SEE ALSO: SpeedKore reveals a heavily customized Hellcat-powered 1968 Dodge Charger

BMW team will also be showcasing the first-ever BMW i4, a striking gran coupe with all-electric mobility. This is a statement vehicle that blends style, agility, and comfort with zero tailpipe emissions.

Last but not least, visitors to the event will have the chance to see the BMW M 1000 RR, the first M model from BMW Motorrad – a stunning iteration of the BMW R 18.

June 28, 2021
SpeedKore reveals a heavily customized Hellcat-powered 1968 Dodge Charger

Built as the road version of the movie car in the latest “Fast & Furious”, the SpeedKore Hellacious Charger is a custom vehicle, resembling the mid-engine classic muscle cars. SpeedKore team has worked with the franchise since 2015 when showcased the 1970 Dodge Charger Tantrum in Furious 7.

As it comes to the Hellacious, it generates power via a supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V8 engine, mounted between the rear axles in an exclusive SpeedKore frame. The unit generates a total of 707hp and 650 pound-feet of torque and is distributed to the wheels via a Graziano gearbox borrowed from a Lamborghini Gallardo.

Furthermore, the vehicle breathes via a custom exhaust system made from MagnaFlow components, SpeedKore-exclusive headers and dual mufflers. There’s also a front-mounted Saladana performance radiator that keeps the engine cool while accommodating the mid-engine architecture of the vehicle. At the rear, a high-performance intercooler ensures cold air for the drivetrain system.

Hellacious manages to keep a low stance thanks to the SpeedKore-exclusive perimeter frame with double-A-arm front suspension from Detroit Speed and an integrated rear cradle with double-wishbone suspension from Race Car Replicas. There are also Brembo 6-piston calipers up front and dual Brembo 4-piston calipers back that ensure a controlled and a quick stop on demand. Custom HRE 18-inch “Hellacious” center-lock wheels with 275/35R18 front and 345/35R18 rear tires complete this purpose-built setup.

SEE ALSO: Aston Martin reveals details for the new limited Valkyrie AMR Pro lineup

Hellacious is rendered in full carbon fiber just like SpeedKore’s previous Chargers, but this one also adds a custom wide body design styled by Sean Smith Designs. In terms of exterior, the vehicle demonstrates pronounced fender cut-outs, elegant body sliding, and a glass rear hatch that exposes the engine compartment. Inside, Hellacious features a minimalistic driver-focused cabin with low-back racing seats and an aluminum dashboard.

June 28, 2021
Aston Martin announces details for the new limited Valkyrie AMR Pro lineup

Aston Martin presents the new Valkyrie AMR Pro: a vehicle that was designed to compete at the Le Mans 24 Hours and pushed even further to explore the extreme limits of performance and racing experience.

The original concept was seen first at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show and has evolved numerous times since then and now the Valkyrie AMR Pro showcase Aston Martin’s most advanced technological advancements and incorporates an engineering experience of decades.

In the pursuit of lightweight and fast lap times, Aston Martin relied only on a modified version of the advanced Cosworth-built 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine. This unit revs to 11,000rpm and generates the whooping 1000bph. Weight reduction comes from the deletion of the battery-electric hybrid system, plus a set of other measures, including an ultra-lightweight carbon-fiber bodywork, carbon-fiber suspension wishbones, and Perspex windscreen and windows.

To complement the track-only Valkyrie AMR Pro, customers will have the opportunity to attend a bespoke track day experience, hosted by the Aston Martin team at a selection of international FIA Circuits around the world. The event includes track and pit lane access, support from the Aston Martin Valkyrie instructor team, and an exclusive VIP hosted dinner.

SEE ALSO: Hyundai reveals the first images of the upcoming Elantra N sports vehicle

The Valkyrie AMR Pro lineup is limited to only 40 units and two prototypes. First deliveries are scheduled for Q4 2021.

June 28, 2021