Automobiles Review

Category: Car Makes

Car Makes

  • Volkswagen presents ID.4 GTX: intelligent performance with sustainability in mind

    2021 Volkswagen ID.4 GTXVolkswagen presented a fully electric high-performance model – the ID.4 GTX. With this one, VW is bringing intelligent sportiness to the world of mobility. ID.4 GTX is the first model to feature a modular electric drive matrix and to include a dual-motor AWD system and attractive and contemporary design.

    New ID.4 GTX comes with one electric drive motor on both the front and rear axles. Together, they generate a maximum of 299hp and can work together as an AWD system – the first for the ID. lineup. This setup allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 3.2 seconds and from 0 to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds. The top speed is 180km/h.

    In terms of design, new ID.4 GTX reveals an extraordinary character by combining three revised honeycomb components that form the daytime running lights design, new bumpers, 3D LED taillights, and new brake lights.

    2021 Volkswagen ID.4 GTX

    As it comes to the interior, the upper section of the dashboard incorporates leather inserts and red contrasting stitching. The GTX logo appears on the sporty steering wheel, while the sill panel trim contributes to the sporty ambiance.

    SEE ALSO: Euro NCAP awards VW ID.4 with the highest possible rating [VIDEO]

    The GTX lineup is based on the ACCELERATE corporate strategy, with which VW aims to become the most coveted sustainable mobility brand. It has set itself the target of increasing the proportion of sales of electric vehicles in Europe by 70 percent by 2030. VW also intends to become climate-neutral by 2050 and by 2025 it will have invested about 16 billion euro in electric mobility technologies.

    2021 Volkswagen ID.4 GTX

    Source: Volkswagenen

  • Volvo’s entire lineup has earned TOP SAFETY PLUS Award by IIHS!

    2021 Volvo XC40 RechargeThe fully electric Volvo XC40 Recharge has earned the TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award from the American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The addition of the vehicle in the prestigious lineup of winners means that Volvo Cars is the only automobile manufacturer to achieve TSP+ across its entire product range.

    The XC40 Recharge is the first fully electric small SUV to earn the award and adds to the record set last month for the most single-year TSP+ awards earned by any car maker since the TSP+ awards began back in 2013.

    IIHS recognizes vehicles with TSP+ that provide the highest level of safety. Volvo Cars received 9 TSP+ awards in February, five in March, and now one in April, which makes a total of 15 recognitions.

    What sets Volvo Cars apart from other manufacturers is the attention paid when it comes to refining the safety technologies. Such include including forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking, combined with advanced pedestrian and cyclist-collision prevention.

    Regardless of body style, engine or trim, every Volvo offers innovative protection in a crash, said Anders Gustafsson, President and CEO of Volvo Car USA. We are proud that IIHS has recognised this by awarding a Top Safety Pick Plus to every vehicle we produce today. No other company has been awarded this honour across all car lines.

    The fully electric Volvo XC40 Recharge joins the following vehicles earning a TSP+ award:

    The following vehicles produced after September 2020 have been awarded the TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award from IIHS as of 31 March 2021:

    • Volvo S90
    • Volvo S90 Recharge
    • Volvo V90
    • Volvo V90 Cross Country

    The following vehicles have been awarded the TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award from IIHS as of 31 March 2021:

    • Volvo V60 Cross Country

    SEE ALSO: IONIQ 5 wins Best Design at TopGear Electric Awards

    They join the following vehicles awarded the TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS in February:

    • Volvo S60
    • Volvo S60 Recharge
    • Volvo V60
    • Volvo V60 Recharge
    • Volvo XC40
    • Volvo XC60
    • Volvo XC60 Recharge
    • Volvo XC90
    • Volvo XC90 Recharge

    Source: Volvo 

     

  • IONIQ 5 wins Best Design at TopGear Electric Awards

    2021 Hyundai IONIQ 5Hyundai IONIQ 5 won the Best Design at the TopGear Electric Awards 2021. The first car in the lineup and the first to be based on the new E-GMP battery electric platform, the IONIQ 5, doesn’t just herald a new era for the EV design, but also for the entire EV segment.

    The vehicle is fully electric and rich in eco-friendly materials and includes fast charging capabilities, aggressive performance rages and extended mileage coverage with a single charge. Indeed, IONIQ 5 can be recharged from 10% to 80% in mere 18 minutes and can cover a distance of 300 miles with a single charge. In terms of performance, the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 5.2 seconds.

    The IONIQ 5 looks like an Eighties hot hatch that’s been beamed into the future. It’s head-turningly bold and peppered with talking point details. Those wheelarch strakes. The robot dot-matrix tail-lights. The solar roof. And inside is just as futuristic, with twin 12.3-inch screens bookended with a magnetic panel you can pin receipts, notes or perhaps family photos on to. The fully flat floor means the interior can be morphed to your will; the centre console slides fully forward, while both front chairs have built-in footrests and recline almost bed-flat, said Jack Rix, Editor of TopGear Magazine.

    2021 Hyundai IONIQ 5

    In terms of design, IONIQ 5 comes with new approach, made possible by the new BEV platform, evoking the daring attitude of Hyundai Pony, the brand’s first production car.

    The front of the vehicle is geared with brand’s first clamshell hood that minimizes the panel gaps for improving the aerodynamic features. Also, the front bumper is defined by an eye-catching V-Shape and incorporates distinctive daytime running lights that provide an unmistakable light signature for the IONIQ 5. The sides are defined by auto flush door handles that ensure clean surface styling and enhanced aerodynamic efficiency. The front and rear forms of the vehicle merge at the doors.

    SEE ALSO: Volswagen reveals EPA-estimated ratings for 2022 Taos lineup

    In terms of interior, the vehicle adopts a new “Living Space” design concept for the cabin and takes advantage of IONIQ 5’s bespoke platform. Axles are pushed right to the front and back of the car and free up a free big amount of space in the interior. Many of cabin’s details are eco-friendly too: the seats, headliner, door trim, floor and armrest use sustainably sourced materials, such as recycled PET bottles, plant-based (bio PET) yarns and natural wool yarns, eco-processed leather with plant-based extracts, and bio paint with plant extracts.

    2021 Hyundai IONIQ 5

    Source: Hyundai

     

  • Volswagen reveals EPA-estimated ratings for 2022 Taos lineup

    2022 Volkswagen TaosVolkswagen of America announced the official fuel economy ratings for the 2022 Taos compact SUV. The entire Taos front-wheel-drive lineup comes with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and EPA-estimated ratings of 28 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined. Furthermore, all Taos models are tied for the best-in-class EPA-estimated highway fuel economy for internal combustion engines.

    The lineup also features a 4Motion AWD model with a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission and EPA-estimated ratings of 25 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined.

    We developed the Taos for North America with a balance of efficiency and drivability that we’ve rarely seen from competitors in the compact SUV space, says Hein Schafer, senior vice president of product and strategy for Volkswagen of America, We think customers will embrace a fun-to-drive, well-equipped SUV at a very competitive price point.

    All Taos models are powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged and direct-injection EA211 power unit, delivering a total of 158hp and 184 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, the vehicles are geared with variable geometry turbocharging and offer excellent performance to fuel economy ratio.

    SEE ALSO: Volkswagen reveals more details about the Taos compact SUV

    According to EPA,  the 2022 Taos FWD is capable of saving about $750 in fuel over five years compared to other brands, and the AWD version can save as much as $250.

    New Taos is expected to go on sale in June. The vehicle is positioned in the largest US segment, the compact SUV market, where about 4 million vehicles were sold in 2019, about 4 percent of the market.

  • Honda announces first details for its new interior design language [VIDEO]

    2021 Honda Vehicles InteriorIn a new video, Honda reveals a new interior design philosophy that will shape the interior design of the new Honda vehicles. Inspired by the classic human-centered design of the early Honda days, the brand adopts a simplistic approach towards the design, but without sacrificing any of the advanced technological functions of today. The new idea features a renewed focus on Honda’s classic “Man Maximum/Machine Minimum” approach and maximizes the interior space and minimizes the space required for mechanical technologies.

    Simplicity in design requires not only a strong philosophy but a discipline toward the user experience, says Johnathan Norman, Creative Lead for Honda Interior Design in the U.S, We’ve heard from designers working for other brands who say they were inspired by the simple, human-centered design of old Hondas. Well, so are we!

    For the Honda team, all this means that the upcoming models will be free of visual clutter and will focus on thin pillars, low cowl, and a large greenhouse for excellent visibility, which enables the driver and passengers to see the road and environment around them more clearly and vividly.

    SEE ALSO: Ford works on a new illumination technology [VIDEO]

    As it seems, Honda continues to impress both brand enthusiasts and skeptics by delivering safe and reliable vehicles. In fact, this is the brand with the highest fleet average fuel economy and lowest CO2 emissions of any major full-line automaker in America, according to new data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Honda lineup includes the Civic, Insight, Accord, and Clarity series passenger cars, along with the HR-V, CR-V, Passport and Pilot sport utility vehicles, the Ridgeline pickup, and the Odyssey minivan. Honda’s electrified vehicle lineup includes the Accord Hybrid, CR-V Hybrid, Insight hybrid, and the Clarity Fuel Cell and Clarity Plug-In Hybrid.

    2021 Honda Vehicles Jonathan Norman

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKuuV8w4G0Y&feature=youtu.be

    Source: Honda

  • Ford works on a new illumination technology [VIDEO]

    2021 Ford Smart HeadlightsFord team is looking to a new way of making driving in the dark easier and more comfortable. The company’s engineers at Ford Research and Advanced Engineering Europe are testing a technology that uses real-time location data to effectively show the vehicle’s way to go. This predictive smart headlight system directs the beams into upcoming corners even before the driver may see them, illuminating dangerous obstacles.

    The prototype system uses GPS location data, advanced technologies, and highly accurate street geometry information to quickly and accurately identify turns and obstacles on the road ahead. The algorithm calculates the trajectory and speed of the vehicle in order to proactively adjust the direction of the headlight beams, providing optimal light coverage of bends and junctions.

    Should the vehicle encounter a stretch of road where location data is not available, the system will work alongside the camera and the steering-wheel dynamic headlight bending technologies to continue to intelligently illuminate the road until the location data access is once more available.

    SEE ALSO: Maserati announces first details for the new F-Tributo lineup

    Furthermore, the research team has made some extensive use of the digital twin simulation that recreates real-world events in a digital environment. This simulation accurately calculates how light fall and reflects in the real world, enabling researchers to better visualize and improve the technology they are working on.

    Michael Koherr, Ford European lighting research engineer, said:  The predictive lighting technology we are developing now means that one day driving in the dark could be as simple as just following your headlights. This new map- and location‑based system is the next step on our quest to make driving at night no more difficult or stressful as during the day.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PN5lvwjf1VY

     Source: Ford 

  • Maserati announces first details for the new F-Tributo lineup

    2021 Maserati F-Tributo RangeMaserati’s racing debut was exactly 95 years ago – on the 25th of April the Tipo26 won the 1,500cc class at the Targa Florio with Alfieri Maserati at the wheel.

    Brand’s history in the competition and its connection with the racing world inspired the unveiling of the new F Tributo Special Edition, which made its world premiere at the Shanghai Auto Show 2021. F stands for Fangio, the driver who made his mark on an entire era. Tributo, on the other hand, pays homage to the glorious victories of the past.

    The new generation of special series is available on Ghibli and Levante variants with two exclusive colors – Rosso Tributo and Azzurro Tributo – and evokes Maserati’s energetic spirit in this sporty version alluring in both looks and details.

    Furthermore, the reference to the past is inscribed on the exterior. Red is the color of Italian motorsports, and the historical Maserati vehicles have always been covered in red color, which represents Italy and the thrill of high speeds.

    2021 Maserati F-Tributo Range Levante

    Azzurro Tributo, on the other hand, reminds of the color scheme of the City of Modena, Maserati’s historic home.

    In fact, there are some more references to the Fangio 250F, with its distinctive red and yellow livery, yellow brake calipers, and wheel trims.

    SEE ALSO: GTO Engineering reveals final exterior design concept for the new Squalo vehicle

    In order to complete the exterior look, Levante F Tributo is fitted with large Anteo 21-inch wheels in Black and Ghibli F Tributo with 21-inch Titano wheels, both sets covered in glossy black. There’s also an exclusive glossy black badge on the wheel arch and the trident logo is covered in body color on the C-pillar.

    Finally, the shades of the exterior details are reflected in the interior with its red and yellow details.

    2021 Maserati F-Tributo Range Ghibli

    Source: Maserati 

  • SKODA team reveals first sketches of the new Fabia lineup. Check them out!

    2021 SKODA FabiaSKODA AUTO builds anticipation for the upcoming Fabia lineup by releasing some official design sketches. Brand’s famous small car will become significantly larger and with the more aggressive exterior styling. As it seems, the engineering team has switched to using VW’s Modular Transverse Toolkit MQB-A0, which has made it possible for the vehicle to feature some larger proportions and ensure more space for passengers and luggage. Additionally, the sharp front-end design really catches the eye.

    Two of the published sketches show a clear and contemporary design show an elongated roof spoiler with side finlets, new mirror design and adjustable cooling shutters at the front bumper.

    2021 SKODA Fabia

    Other sketches focus on the headlight design, which is now extended to the grille. Also, the L-shaped daytime running light module can be seen as well. SKODA’s signature elements are also present.

    SEE ALSO: New Volkswagen Polo comes with tons of new technologies and gadgets

    Fabia remains one of SKODA’s best-selling models. Since its first generation, unveiled back in 2000, 1.79 units have been produced in approximately 87 years, while the next generations have gone even that high number. At the moment, the manufacturer’s total production volume is 4.7 million Fabias to date. This all means that the anticipation of the new family member is really high and we all expect that new Fabia will live up to our expectations.

    2021 SKODA Fabia

    2021 SKODA Fabia

    Stick with us for future details.

    Source: SKODA 

  • Volkswagen team reveals more about the new Multivan’s practical interior [VIDEO]

    2021 Volkswagen Multivan SketchesThe Multivan remains the master of transformation: it can be the family MPV, a business vehicle, a sports gear transporter, a camper, and tons of other things. The first generation has already received a legendary status. Now, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is ready to present the next family member that would further enhance the flexibility of the vehicle.

    However, there are some differences and changes, compared to the previous generations. The seats will be of higher position, there are a total of five rear seats that can be removed, and last, but certainly not least, the vehicle will adopt all the handy functions from T3, T4, T5, T6, and T6.1.

    Also, there will be only individual seats – the full-width bench seats on the third row is no more. At the same time, the new individual seats of the second and third rows adopt a lighter and more comfortable construction.

    Albert Kirzinger, Head of Design at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, explains in a short video why flexible seats and a middle seat that is both movable and removable are so important for a Multivan: “It is wonderfully practical. And a car is practical if it can be used flexibly. To that end, we’ve created a new seating system. You can easily take seats out to get your sports equipment, mountain bike and/or surfboard into this generously proportioned space. With these seats, everything is possible in the new Multivan.”

    SEE ALSO: New Volkswagen Polo comes with tons of new technologies and gadgets

    Also, the original table onboard has undergone some changes and modernization by becoming more functional and coming with tons of new features. However, the Volkswagen team is reluctant to tell us more at this stage!

    Source: Volkswagen 

     

  • New Volkswagen Polo comes with tons of new technologies and gadgets

    2021 Volkswagen PoloVolkswagen is about to present a new generation of Polo lineup which would adopt new technologies, new design concepts, and tons of new-gen features.

    The new Polo makes a visual impact with its new LED headlights and taillights, distinctive front-end with chrome-look crossbars, LED fog lights, and 15-inch Ronda alloys that altogether form the tight and confident stance of the vehicle.

    In terms of interior design, the new Polo lineup features a new version of VW’s Digital Cockpit, Composition Media Audio system with a 6.5-inch monitor, Bluetooth mobile phone interface, App-Connect, central armrest, and USB-C ports. The interior also comes with comfortable seats, a cozy ambiance, and an overall feel of luxury and elegance.

    Additionally, buyers will benefit from a multifunctional steering wheel and Lane Assist function, central airbag, Park Distance Control system. Such additions not only contribute to a more pleasurable and rewarding driving experience but also reduce the risk of road accidents.

    SEE ALSO: Honda presents new and electrified HR-V lineup

    With more than 18 million units built, Polo remains one of the world’s most popular compact vehicles. Now, the latest family member will not only try to retain the lineup’s pride but will also aim at reaching an even wider audience with its next-gen technologies and advanced systems.

    Stick with us for further information!

    Source: Volkswagen 

  • Honda presents new and electrified HR-V lineup

    2021 Honda HR-VThe new HR-V e:HEV comes powered with Honda’s advanced two-motor hybrid powertrain technology, delivering a blend of efficiency and responsiveness. This sub-compact model lineup joins Honda’s larger electric range and represents the brand’s devotion to electrify its entire production.

    Exterior design

    2021 Honda HR-V

    The latest generation of HR-V e:HEV embodies a simple, clean, and contemporary design philosophy that is already seen in many other Honda models.

    The silhouette of the vehicle is sleek and although playful in spirit, contributes to some enhanced performance, thanks to the increased 10mm clearance, reduced roof height by 20mm, and the adoption of 18-inch alloy wheels that further enhance the robust appeal.

    Aerodynamic improvements are achieved without the need for unnecessary design features and additions that compromise elegant styling. There’s an air curtain slit at the front bumper, rear side sill lip, and sleek rear light shape that altogether reduce drag and are aided by a rear side spoiler which reduces the turbulence behind the vehicle.

    Interior design

    2021 Honda HR-V

    Inside the new HR-V, every component is dedicated to achieving as much as possible spaciousness and coziness at the same time. The cabin design also focuses on practicality and ease of use of all systems, buttons, and functions.

    SEE ALSO: Henry Ford II’s 1981 Ford Capri 2.8i will be auctioned this week

    The design team has included “Air Diffusion System” where L-shaped vents are positioned in the top corners of the dashboard and contribute to cleaner interior air by directing a stream of air along with the front side windows to the roof, which creates vortex of air beside and above occupants. Also, Honda’s next-gen body stabilizing front seats are present with pat-structure support, smart positioning of the dashboard, and controls.

    Drivetrain system

    2021 Honda HR-V

    Honda has included its agile and efficient 1.5-liter i-VTEC petrol unit with a peak power output of 131hp and 253Nm of torque at 4,500rpm.

    Furthermore, the drivetrain system features three selectable driving modes – Sport, Normal, and Econ, each giving a different feel and serving a specific role.

    Also, the vehicle adopts an Adaptive Cruise Control system, Blind Spot Information system, Mitigation steering System and Collision Mitigation Brake System, Cross-Traffic Monitor, Hill Descent Control, and others.

    Source: Honda

  • Henry Ford II’s 1981 Ford Capri 2.8i will be auctioned this week

    2021-Ford-Capri-910A special 1981 Ford Capri 2.8 injection, exclusively created for Henry Ford II will be auctioned on the 23rd of April by Car & Classic. This is one of the three special Ford vehicles created for Henry Ford II and this particular Capri was specially created to be used when traveling in the UK.

    Capri was hand-picked off the Cologne production line and then underwent a transformation that included additional layers of paint, stricter quality control, and some comfort-enhancing features like a C3 automatic gearbox and a wider leather-trimmed set of seats.

    The work was undertaken by Ford’s SVE division at Dunton and was enjoyed by Ford II until 1983 when the vehicle was purchased by Ron Mellor who was then the Head of Ford Product Development. After 3 years he also sold the vehicle to Alan Jarman, a designer at Ford who sold it back in 1993 to Leslie Garner who kept it until April 2007 when the next owner decided to recommission the vehicle with new original Ford parts.

    Showing 68,958 miles on the odometer, the Capri has only covered around 6,800 miles in the last 28 years. Fresh from a comprehensive refresh this February 2021, restoring it to its full glory, it’s now ready to be enjoyed once more.

    Fast Fords are always highly sought after but this Capri is much more than that, says Chris Pollitt, head of editorial at Car & Classic. Specifically prepared by the legendary SVE department for one of the most influential people in the history of Ford and then subsequently enjoyed by other key members of the company, it is a widely appreciated, documented, and renowned part of the Ford story.

    SEE ALSO: 2021 London Concours showcases ‘The Youngtimers’

    The seven-day online auction will start from April 23rd on Car & Classic, with the special Capri’s estimated to be sold for £25,000 – £35,000.

    Source: Cars&Classics