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Five facts about the new Lamborghini Huracan STO

The newest Lambo family member to be unveiled, the Huracan STO (Super Trofeo Omologata) is inspired by the Lamborghini team’s race cars: the Huracan EVO Super Trofeo and Huracan EVO GT3, the 3-time winner of the 24 Hours of Daytona and two-time winner of the 12-hours of Sebring.

Huracan STO develops a total of 640hp via the naturally-aspirated V10 power unit and 565Nm at 6,500rpm, a setup that allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 3.0 seconds and from 0 to 200km/h in 9.0 seconds. The vehicle has a top speed of 310km/h and is specially designed with race in its DNA. The lightweight materials and the superior aerodynamic efficiency allow Huracan STO to bring emotion and enhanced pleasure of driving.

As with any other Lambo, this one is crafted with passion and precision that deserve some more attention. Here are some interesting facts about the building of the Huracan STO:

COFANGO, a “Made in Lamborghini” design solution

The term Cofango comes from a blend of two Italian words: cofano, which means hood and parafango, which means a fender. Automobili Lamborghini team decided to use this custom word to describe the design approach, which is characterized by the fact that fenders, front bumper and the hood are integrated into a single component. This new approach is inspired by Lamborghini Miura and the modern Sestro Elemento.

Three exclusive modes that change in 3 seconds

Usually, three seconds are not a large period of time, but when it comes to motorsport, three seconds are equal to eternity. Huracan STO comes with three dedicated driving modes – STO, the normal driving one, Trofeo, the race mode and Pioggia, used for wet surfaces.

Huracan STO has been three times around the globe

Lambo’s R&D team drove the distance in simulator tests before taking the STO for road tests. The advanced simulator technology allowed engineers to spend tons of time on quality control, lead teams and precise customization that altogether result in an outstanding road and track behaviour.

There are 2,750 components that comprise the STO

Engineers have ensemble the frantic beauty from thousands of small pieces – to build one requires tons of expertise and patience.

SEE ALSO: Porsche team reveals first details for the new 2021 Porshe Taycan Cross Turismo

Connected telemetry thanks to 25,000 lines of code

Huracan comes with an advanced telemetry system that allows a connection between the vehicle and the App Lamborghini UNICA. The intuitive data analysis and video backed widgets have managed to transform the App into a real-time track engineer. The development of this technology was possible only after 25,000 lines of code was written.

March 5, 2021
Porsche team reveals first details for the new 2021 Porshe Taycan Cross Turismo

New 2021 Taycan Cross Turismo comes with a strong focus on performance and an exciting driving experience. The vehicle also adds tons of flexibility and customization to the mix, so it is worth checking out what Porshe have prepared for us.

A quick overview

This is a crossover and will be launched in four variants: Taycan 4 Cross Turismo, Taycan 4S Cross Turismo, Turbo Cross Turismo, and Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo. All variants will come with an advanced dual-motor AWD system and a two-speed rear gearbox. Porsche team has also included its own Adaptive Suspension Management in conjunction with air suspension, Performance Battery Plus and 800-volt battery architecture. Buyers also get adaptive aerodynamics, panoramic glass roof, and the brand’s PCM infotainment system.

Additionally, the new Taycan will be offered with a wide range of exterior colours, interior trim customization and Cross Turismo-specific items. Such include Off-Road Design Package and exclusive 20-inch Off-Road Design and 21-inch Cross Turismo Design wheels.

What makes the Taycan stand out from other Porsche models

First, the vehicle features a long and flatter roofline, compared to other Porsche models. This design allows some additional space for front and rear seat occupants. Taycan also comes with larger cargo space, with up to 15.7 cubic feet for the Taycan 4 Cross Turismo and Taycan 4S Cross Turismo. There’s a total of 14.3 cubic feet for the Turbo Cross and Turbo S Cross Turismo versions. Also, the rear seats can fold back and free up even more space, up to 42.8 cubic feet, depending on the model.

The fender extensions, exclusive rocker panels, front and rear fascia, and the 20-millimeter higher ride further differentiate the 2021 Taycan Cross Turismo from some of its siblings.

Performance and capabilities

Given that this is a capable off-roader, 2021 Taycan comes with a Gravel mode that increases the ride height by 10mm and sets the suspension firmness, traction and stability control to the settings that would ensure maximum grip over any kind of surface and in any road or off-road situation. This, blended with additional body cladding to minimize the errant rock chips to the body, Taycan becomes as effective on rough terrain as it is on the asphalt.

SEE ALSO: 2021 SKODA Octavia comes with an enhanced safety suite and a wide choice for customization

In terms of performance, Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in 2.7 seconds, only 0.1 seconds slower than the sedan counterpart. Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo can make the sprint to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, while the Taycan 4S Cross Turismo and Taycan 4 Cross Turismo can get to 60 mph in 3.9 and 4.8 seconds respectively.

Interior design

Inside, Taycan includes tech like Porsche Connect, Apple CarPlay, Function on Demand, Plug and Charge and more. Optional equipment includes Porsche InnDrive with Adaptive Cruise control and Active Lane Keep, Heads Up Display, 14-way seat adjustment and Bose and Burmester audio systems.
The vehicle is expected to hit the US market in the summer of 2021. More details will be announced soon – stick with us!

March 5, 2021
Kia team showcases new images of K8’s interior

Kia has opened the doors of its new K8 premium sports saloon and reveals a beautiful interior design with premium components and effortless style. As it seems, this interior shines on the brand’s intentions to the future where it will continue to impress with beautiful design ideas and advanced technologies.

What we see is that occupants will be greeted by an open and cosy space with sleek and minimalistic design and neat cabin effects. Ample in character and content, the materials were carefully selected to create a high-class and high-tech cocoon. There are neat wood accents that add depth and sophistication, as well as high-quality metals that create the feeling of polished industrial chic.

The complex diamond lattice approach expresses the movement of light in the cabin, while the Star Cloud lighting only enhances the warm interior ambience. At the bottom o the curved displays there’s the infotainment system and air conditioning controls that are operated by a touchpad and further reduce the use and adoption of plastic.

SEE ALSO: Five facts about the new Lamborghini Huracan STO

What we also see is that the ergonomic central console is placed in a position for optimal comfort for driver and passengers and features elegant wood-based cupholders and glossy soft-touch switches. Neat!

Also, the K8 interior features a new steering wheel design with the brand’s new logo that expresses “symmetry”, “rhythm” and “rising” elements.

More details will be announced soon.

March 5, 2021
2021 Volvo XC40 receives a prestigious award for its value retention

2021 Volvo XC40 has earned the Best Resale Value Award by Kelley Blue Book in the Luxury Subcompact SUV category. This is the model’s second consecutive year of winning the prize.

Admired for its modern and elegant design and for the brand’s famous safety suites, XC40 had no difficulties achieving the highest possible ratings. The vehicle comes with an advanced lane-keeping alert and assist, blind-spot warning and Pilot Assist technology that altogether contributed to the prestigious recognition. Additionally, the XC40 was also chosen a winner because of the numerous customization options it offers. Buyers can choose specs from an extended list of options and further enhance their vehicle with the brand’s aftermarket upgrades. And last, but not least, it seems that the machine reveals that it is super reliable in terms of maintenance and resale value.

Volvo doesn’t stop to impress both fans and sceptics with its hi-tech gadgets and overall modern approach towards vehicle building. Brand’s latest models manage to catch the attention of many juries around the globe and easily win awards one after another. Also known as “the Swedish pride”, Volvo continues to do deliver super safe cars and advanced technologies that not only contribute to a greener future but also enhance the pleasure of driving.

SEE ALSO: Volvo announces details for the brand’s first-ever electric-only model

As it comes to the event itself, Kelley Blue Book, it recognizes vehicles for their high retain value over the first five years of ownership. The evaluation is based on Kelley Blue Book Official Residual Value Guide and for its 19 years of existence has managed to point out the best machines in the category. The event receives widespread media attention and helps millions of buyers make a well-informed and confident choice for their next vehicle.

March 4, 2021
Vincentric reveals record low maintenance cost for VW cars

Volkswagen of America, Inc. announces that results from a maintenance cost study reveal that some of the brand’s models have the lowest cost of maintenance. The analysis is performed by Vincentric, an automotive data firm. It shows that Atlas and Jetta’s lineups offer the lowest costs for maintenance over the first five years of ownership, whereas Tiguan, Passat and Arteon outperformed key models from competitive brands.

Furthermore, Vincentric’s maintenance cost analysis shows that some 2021 VW models feature outstanding results. Such are:

2021 Atlas Family of vehicles has the lowest cost of maintenance among midsize SUVs. The Atlas Cross Sport ranked #1 for the lowest cost of maintenance in the category.

2021 Jetta ranks #1 for the lowest cost of maintenance among compact sedans.

2021 Tiguan has a lower cost of maintenance than competitive models by Honda, Toyota and Subaru in the compact SUV segment.

2021 Passat and Arteon models have a lower cost of maintenance than competitive models by Toyota, Honda and Hyundai in the midsize sedan segment.

It seems that Volkswagen has managed to retain its high standards and high-quality vehicles. Not only the brand has revealed tons of new gadgets and ideas but also has managed to successfully incorporate all these in new vehicle models. For example, the new ID lineup has managed to catch the attention of both brand enthusiasts and sceptics with its advanced technologies and tons of innovations.

Volkswagen’s operations in the US include technical research and development, vehicle processing, distribution centres, sales and service offices. Volkswagen Group remains one of the largest producers of passenger vehicles and Europe’s largest manufacturer.

SEE ALSO: Volkswagen ID.3 receives its 10th prestigious award. Check out some details!

As it comes to Vincentric, the firm provides data, knowledge, and insight to the automotive industry by applying numerous aspects of automotive value. This data is used by large organizations like Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, AAA, Nissan and many others.

March 4, 2021
2021 SKODA Octavia comes with enhanced safety suite and a wide choice for customization

New SKODA Octavia has won first place in the “Family Car” category at the 2021 Women’s World Car of the Year awards. This is the first victory for SKODA in the event. In fact, the new Octavia is also in the running for the overall title.

This is the fourth generation of Ocavia and comes with an elegant design and a spacious interior, and outstanding active and passive features. The vehicle ensures enhanced functionality, many advanced hi-tech gadgets and an eco-friendly drivetrain system. In fact, the new Octavia can be specified with a large choice of petrol, diesel and hybrid engines.

Octavia has also crowned the winner in the compact class category by the German “auto motor und sport” magazine. Back in 2020, Octavia won several awards in key export countries – Austria, Germany and Switzerland. All these recognitions highlight vehicle’s overall high quality and a perfect fit for families. Some of the awards include “Auto Express New Car Award” in the “Compact Family Car” and the overall “Car of the Year” title in October 2020. The vehicle has also won German awards for “Family Car of the Year” in June 2020 and “Best Design”.

As it comes to the event, the Women’s World Car of the Year title was first run in 2011. The jury is made up of female journalists, all specializing in the automobile industry. This year’s event witnessed 48 jurors from 38 countries who voted for the best vehicle produced between January and December 2020. The final announcements and winner will be made on the 8^th of March – International Women’s Day.

March 4, 2021
2021 Renaut Arcana come with an award-winning safety suite and beautiful exterior

The new Renault Arkana has been awarded the maximum five-star rating by Euro NCAP for its crash safety capabilities. The vehicle offers a wide array of passive and active safety equipment, including the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

New Arkana is based on the advanced CMF-B modular platform which brings tons of benefits. For example, the platform allows for redesigned seat composition, seatbelts fasteners with pyrotechnic pre-tensioners and load limiters that altogether offer maximum support for driver and passengers. Also, the Renault team has included its Fix4sure technology that promotes the best occupant restraint and avoids drivers and passengers sliding under the seatbelt in the result of a crash. At the same time, the child seats can easily and securely be installed on the outer rear seats.

In addition to the strong CMF-B platform, the new Arkana comes with the latest ADAS technology. It includes Motorway and Traffic Assistant with Adaptive Cruise Control with Start & Go function. Traffic Sign Recognition, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist are also available.

The vehicle also comes with an Active Emergency Braking System, which alerts the driver in terms of a dangerous situation and initiates braking when needed.

All these systems blend in a well-machinated suite which ensures peace of mind to the driver and passengers. Furthermore, all the systems are complemented by Arkana’s extensive equipment list, including new automatic lighting and a 360-degree camera with an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

SEE ALSO: Four Subaru models earn Kelley Blue Book’s 2021 Best Resale Value award

In fact, the vehicle also comes with a menacing silhouette, elegant design and sporty spirit. Customers have the chance to specify their vehicle with a wide choice of engines, including the latest E-TECH hybrid, with an extended driving range.

In terms of interior, the new Arkana is characterised by elegant design, premium materials and tons of hi-tech gadgets like the 10-inch TFT Driver Information Display and 9.3-inch EASY LINK infotainment display, both of which are highly customizable.

Orders can be done from July, with the first deliveries in September 2021. More details will be announced soon.

March 4, 2021
Four Subaru models earn Kelley Blue Book’s 2021 Best Resale Value award

Subaru of America, Inc. announced that has won four categories in the prestigious Kelley Blue Book’s 2021 Best Resale Value. These were won by 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, and Outback. In fact, the Outback SUV has secured its sixth segment win. This is also the seventh for the Impreza for its 19-year history.

Here’s the list of awards:

2021 Subaru Impreza
Best Resale Value: Compact Car

2021 Subaru Crosstrek
Best Resale Value: Subcompact SUV

2021 Subaru Forester
Best Resale Value: Compact SUV

2021 Subaru Outback
Best Resale Value: Midsize SUV – 2-row

The award itself, Best Resale Value Award, recognizes 2021 model vehicles for their retained value over the period of 5 years. Usually, depreciation is the primary expense for every owner, this event is organized to help consumers and enthusiasts to make a more informed choice when choosing a second-hand vehicle.

SEE ALSO: Volvo announces details for the brand’s first-ever electric-only model

Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards has held its 19^th show this year and is based on the Kelley Blue Book Official Residual Value Guide. This is an organization established by experienced automobile experts and analysts who evaluate statistical models built upon millions of transactions. The vehicles that earn the highest five-year residue values are expressed as a percentage of their original retail price are chosen as the winners. The low volume machines are excluded from the consideration list, except electric, luxury and sports cars.

March 3, 2021
Volkswagen ID.3 receives its 10th prestigious award. Check out some details!

Volkswagen ID.3 has received another prestigious award. This time frat the UK Car of the Year Awards 2021 event, in the segment “Best Small Hatch”. This marks the tenth time the model receives recognition.

The judging panel has praised the ID.3 for its numerous advanced features, including design, practicality and interior space. In fact, a key for the victory was that the jury recognized VW’s devotion to bringing e-mobility to the masses and remains faithful to the idea that was first introduced back in 2016. The ease of use and the overall familiar characteristics were also praised.

This year’s show saw that ID.3 gained even more breadth of appeal by the additional battery and the extended list of customizable features. At the same time, the ID.4, Volkswagen’s first fully-electric SUV is already available to order by UK customers in its 1^st Edition trim.

SEE ALSO: Volvo announces details for the brand’s first-ever electric-only model

As it seems, Volkswagen remains true to its dedication to ensuring a greener future by constantly revealing new technologies and upgrading old ones. The case with the ID.3 lineup is the same – we see constant improvement and tons of goodies coming our way all the time. This is why we believe VW remains one of the leaders in the uprising EV segment. Not only such approaches are in dire need for the world, but also shows how an enterprise can quickly change so it can be of service to a brighter cause.

March 3, 2021
Volvo announces details for the brand’s first-ever electric only model

Volvo Cars, the Swedish automobile manufacturer, has revealed its latest model – the C40 Recharge. The vehicle is the brand’s next step to the zero-emission future.

The vehicle features all the benefits of an SUV, but also comes with a sleeker design language. Based on the CMA platform, this is also the first Volvo model to be pure electric only.

Following the introduction of the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, the Volvo team will roll out several additional models in the same lineup in the upcoming years. The idea is that 50 per cent of the vehicles by 2025 will be fully electric, while by 2030 every car the manufacturer sells should be purely electric.

Exterior and interior design

New C40 Recharge comes with a striking rear-end shape with a low roofline, while the front-end introduces a completely new face, which will be present in all electric-only Volvo machines.

The inside is characterized by high seating positions and optional colour schemes for each individual model. Also, this is the first Volvo car to be completely leather-free.

In terms of tech gadgets, C4 Recharge comes with an advanced infotainment system, smartphone integration, and Google Suite incorporation.

Drivetrain system

In terms of driving power, the drivetrain consists of two twin electric motors, one at the front and one at the rear axle, powered by a 78kWh battery which can recharge at 80% in 40 minutes. This setup allows a range of about 420km, which is expected to be further improved via future software updates.

C40 Recharge can already be ordered online and the first deliveries are expected to begin this fall. When ordered, customers will get also a convenient pack of service, warranty, roadside assist and insurance, as well as home charging options.

SEE ALSO: New Audi Q5 Sportsback receives some neat upgrades. Check them out!

As it seems, Volvo is strictly following its goal of delivering zero-emission vehicles that also offer enhanced safety features and an overall pleasurable driving experience. As with any other Volvo machine, we expect an extended list of safety features and tons of new utility gadgets.

Stick with us for further details!

March 3, 2021
New Audi Q5 Sportsback receives some neat upgrades. Check them out!

The new Q5 Sportsback blends Audi’s best features of the coupe and SUV segment. Along with the enhanced versatility of both worlds, the vehicle now also offers enhanced battery life and tons of new technologies. Let’s have a look, shall we?

Drivetrain system

Just like its siblings, the new Q5 Sportsback comes with a blend of an electric motor with a 2.0 TFSI petrol engine that together delivers a total of 265hp and 370Nm of torque. This setup is then mated to a seven-speed S tronic gearbox, which delivers the output to a Quattro drivetrain.

As it comes to the battery itself, it is a lithium-ion unit placed just below the luggage compartment floor. It features 104 prismatic cells and can store 14.4kWh of energy with a voltage of 381 volts.

Additionally, the Q5 comes with a choice of four selectable driving modes:

These are the EV, which is the default setting and distributes the battery output optimally in order to keep the overall power consumption to a minimum.

Hybrid mode allows for a sweet balance between petrol aggressiveness and a hybrid economy.

Then there’s the Charge mode, which increases the amount of energy consumption from the battery for a more dynamic ride.

In the Hold mode, battery capacity is held at current levels.

Along with this enhanced flexibility, the new Q5 is geared with a predictive efficiency assist (PEA) system which operates the parameters of coasting recuperation to suit any driving situation. It works by predicting the route data from the navigation and monitoring the distance to the vehicles ahead. When the adaptive cruise (ACC) is active, PEA supports the driver by braking and accelerating automatically to boost comfort in the cabin.

Interior updates

The five-seater now incorporates a new two-section dashboard and a third-generation modular infotainment system. There’s also a 10.1-inch MMI monitor which offers full touch-screen functionality, as well as state-of-the-art natural voice recognition and control.

Exterior updates

To complement the connectivity technology, the Audi team geared the vehicle with LED lights that can further be upgraded with optional Matrix LED headlamps, a choice of exclusive alloy wheels and OLED rear lights with a black styling package. There’s also a panoramic glass sunroof.

March 3, 2021
Kia reveals new BAYON lineup. Check it out!

Hyundai has finally unveiled the BAYON. This is the brand’s all-new crossover SUV designed specifically for Europe. This is a B-segment machine and is the smallest in Hyundai’s lineup. The vehicle features a compact exterior, a comfortable interior and an extended list of safety features. Let’s check out some more, shall we?

Exterior design

BAYON is defined by a distinctive exterior design with a unique approach and high-tech looking details. At the front, there’s a wide grille that opens at the bottom, creating a solid and muscular stance. At the same time, the three-part main lights blend well with the air intakes and establish a unique look and expression.

At the sides, a dynamic shoulder provides a wedge-shaped appearance. Also, the arrow-shaped C-pillar provides some more dynamics in the exterior architecture. All this, in combination with the massive fenders, creates this unmistakable vision of the vehicle.

And last, but not least, the rear reveals an arrow-shaped lights design that enhances the dramatic look of the pillar dynamics. Also, the thin horizontal line that connects the lights adds one more layer of width.

On the side, a dynamic shoulder provides a wedge-shaped appearance. The arrow-shaped C-pillar provides dynamic and unexpected architecture. This, in combination with the fender feature and cladding, defines its unique character.

To the rear, arrow-shaped lights underline the pillar dynamics. Their far-out position creates a wide stance. In addition, a thin horizontal line connecting the taillights further emphasises width and connects the rear and the side in one gesture. Angular lines above the rear arch emphasise volume, creating a vivid section. The strong rear section and visually extended rear window initiate a unique and expressive rear design. Full LED lights and indicators complete its modern look.

BAYON is available with 15-inch steel wheels or 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels.

Interior

BAYON offers a clear and spacey cabin with tons of features. There’s a focus on optimising the comfort of passengers and increasing the boot space. What immediately makes a strong impression is that the cabin is richly equipped with advanced smart technologies that altogether contribute to a safer and more pleasurable ride for all vehicle occupants.

Such gadgets include large AVN screens, smartphone integration via Apple Carplay and Android Auto, 25-inch Audio Video Navigation (AVN), 8-inch Display Audio, 25-inch digital cluster, Bose Premium Sound System, Wireless charging pad and three USB ports.

Additionally, BAYON is geared with the latest Hyundai Bluelink upgrade, which offers state-of-the-art Connected Car Services. These include Connected Routing and new User Profile feature. Also, there’s calendar integration, and tons of other handy goodies such as Live Parking Services, Online Voice Recognition, Online POI function, enhanced security features and automatic diagnostics and vehicle reporting.

Safety features

BAYON offers driver and passengers a robust suite of safety gadgets that ensure a safe journey. There’s also a number of semi-autonomous driving features as Lane Following Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, Occupant Alert for alerting there’s some movement in the rear seats, eCall with automatic alert emergency services.

Drivetrain system

BAYON manages to achieve a neat balance between power output and efficiency. The vehicle also offers some neat CO2 emissions. The available T-GDi is a turbocharged power unit with direct injection for optimal efficiency. In fact, the economy is achieved thanks to the 48-volt mild-hybrid technology with smart Manual Transmission that altogether results in an even more enhanced fuel saving and efficiency.

BAYON also comes with Hyundai’s unique Variable Valve Duration technology which regulates the duration of the valve opening and closing according to the driving conditions. This results in optimized engine performance and improved fuel efficiency.

Speaking of engines, BAYON is geared with an agile 1.0-litre T-GDi power unit with 48V and a choice between 100 or 120hp. Additionally, this setup can be specified with either a 6-sped Intelligent Manual Transmission or a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

SEE ALSO: Kia reveals further details for the 2022 Carnival MPV 8-seater

The Bayon is also the first Hyundai SUV to come with Rev Matching, a feature that is usually reserved for the brand’s high-performance models. The Rev matching manages to sync the engine to the output shaft, which allows for smoother or sportier downshifts, depending on the driver’s preferences.

March 2, 2021