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  • The first production Battista model makes its word debut at the Monterey Car Week event

    2021-Battista-Production-910Automobili Pininfarina takes one more significant step in the development process of the Battista Hyper GT with the first production-spec example making its debut at the Monterey Car Week event 12-15 August.

    The particular vehicle will demonstrate a distinctive black exposed signature carbon fibre bodywork and black glossy precision polished Impulso rims. Also, the interior features black sustainable leather with striking Iconica Blu contrast stitching and quilted Pilota seats in Iconica Blu Alcantara.

    The audience at the event will also see the debut of the exclusive Battista Anniversario, a tribute vehicle to the life and work of the design icon Battista “Pinin” Farina. Limited to merely five vehicles, the lineup will represent the pinnacle of the Automobili Pininfarina’s Pura design concept. This exclusive model will also be attending the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance later this year.

    SEE ALSO: Mazda2 hits dealerships in October. Here are some details

    Per Svantesson, CEO of Automobili Pininfarina, said: The premiere of the first production-specification Battista in the US marks the beginning of another significant chapter in the Automobili Pininfarina story. We are excited to showcase the beautiful and sustainable future of luxury to our clients, while celebrating more than 90 years of Pininfarina design heritage during Monterey Car Week. We look forward to our clients in the US experiencing the immense dynamic performance and personalised luxury of Battista for the first time.

  • Mazda2 hits dealerships in October. Here are some details

    2021-Mazda2-9102022 Mazda2 goes on sale from the first of October. The latest iteration of Mazda’s supermini will offer an agile performance via the exclusive 1.5-liter Skyactiv-G petrol unit with 115hp. There are also 75hp and 90hp versions.

    The entry-level model comes with a total of 90hp and comes with a choice of either a manual or automatic gearbox. The flagship comes with 115hp and is exclusively matched to a six-speed manual transmission. All trim levels also offer enhanced fuel efficiency rates and even lower CO2 emissions.

    Furthermore, new Mazda2 is amply packed with standard features. Such include navigation, cruise control, integrated Bluetooth and air conditioning, wireless Apple CarPlay color head-up display, reversing camera, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, adaptive LED headlights, blind spot monitoring, rear smart city brake support and a 360 degree camera.

    The lineup also debuts a new exterior color of Platinum Quartz Metallic, alongside 12 other options. Of course, the exterior is based on the famous Kodo design concept and showcases beauty via minimalism.

    SEE ALSO: Aston Martin celebrates its 70th anniversary of its debut in the Americas

    Commenting on the arrival of the 2022 Mazda2, Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director Mazda UK said: the Mazda2 may be the smallest car we produce, but it has at its heart the same values of style, driver involvement and quality that mark out all our vehicles. The Mazda2 is now more efficient than ever, while thanks to the generous equipment tally across all models, we have a distinctive and premium contender in what is still one of the most competitive segments in the UK car market.

  • 1989 Proton 1.6 GL Black Knight is the winner at this year’s Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional

    2021 Festival of UnexceptionalHagerty Festival of the Unexceptional enjoyed a massive success at the Grimsthorpe Castle. There were thousands of mundane vehicles and motors on display that competed for  recognition and awards.

    The focal point at the event was the set of 50 carefully selected Unexceptional concours vehicles. All of them had to face comprehensive examinations by a team of experienced juries.

    The first Festival of the Unexceptional was held back in 2014 as a celebration of the long-forgotten everyday cars from the 1960s through the 1980s. For this year’s event, the audience had the chance to have a closer look at the Audi 100E Avant, Fiat Strada, Mazda 929 Estate, and an ultra-rare Lancia Trevi, as numerous, numerous other machines.

    • After the tests and examinations, this year’s winners were announced:
    • Best in Show: Jon Coupland – 1989 Proton 1.5 GL Black Knight
    • Runner Up: Danny Wilson – 1991 Peugeot 106 XN
    • Feast of the Unexceptional/ Best Picnic: Matthew Long – 1986 Volvo 340 DL
    • Best dressed: Mark Pallatt – 1979 Ford Escort

    SEE ALSO: Aston Martin celebrates the 70th anniversary of its debut in the Americas

    Special mentions went to a1989 Nissan Bluebird, 1986 Volkswagen Polo C Formel E, 1971 Triumph Toledo and a 1977 Fiat 128. All of these cars impressed the jury and deserved their place in the 2021 Unexceptional Hall of Fame.

     

  • Aston Martin celebrates its 70th anniversary of its debut in the Americas

    2021-Aston-Martin-Valhalla-910Aston Martin celebrates its 70th anniversary since it entered the American market at the Monterey Car Week. The event will host the North American debut of the new Valhalla model, alongside a reveal of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

    In addition, Aston Martin’s event will also include a selection of the brand’s special GT and SUV models, recognizing the British ultra-luxury lineup of vehicles.

    Aston Martin will also honor its relationship with the James Bond film franchise spanning more than 50 years

    70 Years of Aston Martin the Americas

    2021 marks indeed the 70th anniversary of the brand selling its first vehicle in North America. Shortly after entering production back in 1950 with the recently unveiled DB2 saloon, AM team decided to expand its business share and begin sales in the Americas.

    The success of the DB2 in North America was a resounding one and since this notable beginning the brand has retained its popularity among the American audience.

    Q By Aston Martin Specials – V12 Speedster

    Aston Martin will also showcase the V12 Speedster to America for display at the event. Created by the “Q” division, Aston Martin’s bespoke customization service provider, the vehicle demonstrates  perfect design and impeccable drivetrain system, all blended with the team’s rich experience and dedication.

    50+ Years of James Bond

    The bond between the brands has been alive and well for more than 50 years, and has become a symbol of style and elegance. Prior to the premiere of the last movie in the franchise, No Time to Die, Aston Martin will celebrate the debut of the first Aston Martin in the James Bond movies – the iconic 1964 DB5.

     

  • Dacia reveals details for new Duster lineup

    2021 Dacia DusterOrders are now open for the new Dacia Duster, as details and offers are confirmed.  Having been revised with new design elements, advanced technologies and tons of additional goodies, the new lineup will definitely be an appealing one for customers and brand enthusiasts.

    Exterior design

    The new Duster features a modern design with optimized aerodynamics and added elegant lines and curves. The front-end showcases similar cues to the Sandero lineup and includes new light units with Y-shaped daytime lights, a new 3D radiator grille design, and an overall bolder and more aggressive face design. Furthermore, the new Dacia features a revised rear spoiler and new 16- and 17-inch alloy rims.

    Interior design

    New Duster boosts the comfort of occupants and welcomes everyone to a place with high-end upholstery, new headrests, and a revised center console with a large touch screen.

    Notable additions include an onboard computer screen, automatic main beam activation, and cruise control, and speed limiter with backlit controls on the steering wheel.

    Safety and utility features

    The new Duster is available with a choice of 2 new user-friendly multimedia systems, along with Dacia’s Plug & Radio audio setup with MP3, USB, Bluetooth, and DAB capabilities.

    Depending on the trim level, Duster can be specified with a larger touchscreen, smartphone incorporation, USB ports, and even more refined audio system.

    SEE ALSO: Honda reveals details for the all-new HR-V e:HEV

    As it comes to safety features, the new Duster lineup is geared with an extended list of systems. Such include tire pressure monitoring, cruise control, and Emergency Brake Assist, and Blind Spot Warning. Hill Start Assist, Adaptive Hill Descent, and the Multiview camera are also part of the equipment.

    Drivetrain system

    The engines for all trim levels have been completely revised and offer a wide range of petrol, diesel, and Bi-Fuel systems. Also, all types of engines are mated to a dedicated Efficient Dual Clutch gearbox, which not only offers excellent economy capabilities but also contributes to a smooth and rewarding driving experience.

    The New Duster’s range of Euro 6D Full-compliant engines consists of three TCe petrol units of 90, 130, and 150hp outputs, all driving the front wheels through either a six-speed manual gearbox or, in the case of the TCe 150, Dacia’s new EDC six-speed automatic.

     

  • Honda reveals details for the all-new HR-V e:HEV

    2021 Honda HR-VHonda announces details for the all-new HR-V compact SUV. All variants of the latest generation are equipped with Honda’s adavanced two-motor e:HEV technology as a standard feature and also with tons of goodies. Let’s find out more, shall we?

    The range consist of Elegance grade, which comes with LED headlights, heated front seats, 18-inch alloys, smartphone connectivity and more.

    Then there’s the Advance grade, which adds tailgate with “Walk Away Close and Hands free access”, heated steering wheel, and a synthetic leather and fabric interior trimming.

    The Advance Style adds premium audio system, unique details and neat design elements as the two-tone exterior color scheme, and orange detailing to the cabin. Furthermore, the all-new HR-V is equipped with Honda SensingTM, Hill Descent Control functionality, a 9-inch touchscreen interface enabling smartphone mirroring via Apple CarPlay (through Bluetooth, WiFi or cable) and Android Auto (cable).

    As it comes to the drivetrain system, the new e:HEV hybrid technology delivers a total of 122g/km (WLTP combined cycle) CO2 emissions and fuel economy of 52mpg / 5.4L/100km.

    SEE ALSO:  Jeep, Ram and Chrysler win prestigious awards at this year’s AutoPacific Vehicle Satisfaction Awards

    In terms of design, the new HR-V demonstrates a sleek silhouette, and contemporary approach towards the small details, lines and curves.

    Tom Gardner, Senior Vice President at Honda Motor Europe Ltd, said: The launch of the all-new HR-V is a major milestone for Honda in Europe, setting new benchmarks for interior space, versatility and comfort in the compact SUV market. Available later this year, the next generation of hybrid-only HR-V will appeal to modern consumers, reflecting their active and connected lifestyles, with a desirable blend of efficiency and responsive performance.

  • Jeep, Ram and Chrysler win prestigious awards at this year’s AutoPacific Vehicle Satisfaction Awards

    2021 Jeep Grand CherokeeThree Stellantis vehicles, Chrysler Pacifica, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ram 1500, have been announced winners at the 2021 AutoPacific Vehicle Satisfaction Awards, and were recognized as the most flexible and satisfactory vehicles on the market, all rated by customers.

    The Pacifica adds Most Satisfying Minivan to its collection of 155 awards, whicle the Grand Cherokee takes home the “Most Satisfying Mid-Size SUV”. Ram 1500, on the other hand, earns the recognition of consumers as the most handy machine out there.

    The organization itself, AutoPacific celebrates 35 years of existence and provides comprehensive research and product-consulting services. The team publishes a wide variety of syndicated studies about the automobile industry and conducts extensive proprietary research and consulting for manufacturers, distributors, marketers and suppliers worldwide.

    Chrysler Pacifica

    2021 Chrysler Pacifica

    Chrysler has set a new standard with the unveiling of Pacifica, and with the lineup’s latest iteration, Chrysler has raised the bar even higher – new 2021 Pacifica features AWD capability, paired with the brand’s own and exclusive Stow ‘n Go seating, new FamCAM interior camera, wireless charging, next-generation Uconnect 5 connectivity, an athletic new look.

    Jeep Grand Cherokee

    The Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with advanced 4×4 system, Jeep’s Quadra-Lift air suspension system, and class-leading Selec-Terrain traction system. Also, the Grand Cherokee boasts best-in-class towing of 7,200 pounds and a crawl ratio of 44.1:1.

    SEE ALSO: Bentley reveals new Flying Spur Hybrid and plans for the future

    Ram 1500

    2021 Ram 1500

    New 1500 machine comes with up to 12,750 pounds of towing capability and 2,300 pounds of payload, eTorque mild hybrid system, 480 lb.-ft, Uconnect 4C with a 12-inch touchscreen, 360-degree camera views, and exclusive content from SiriusXM with 360L and Personalized Stations Powered by Pandora.

     

  • Bentley reveals new Flying Spur Hybrid and plans for the future

    2021 Bentley Flying Spur HybridBentley announces details for the new limited-edition lineup of the Flying Spur Hybrid. Based on the EXP 100 GT, the concept car showcases the view of the premium automobile manufacturer for the next 10 years and announces new approaches and technologies that will be included in this and future models.

    The vehicle itself, the Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition benefits from an advanced hybrid drivetrain system and generates a total of bhp (544 PS) and 750 Nm (553 lb. ft) of torque, and also includes new sustainable materials throughout the cabin, and within the drivetrain system.

    Indeed the focus is sustainability and with this in mind, Bentley designers have included open-pore Koa veneer fascias and waist rails. The central console is finished in sleek and elegant Piano Linen veneer and the dedicated three-color leather scheme gives enhanced aesthetics to the cabin.

    2021 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid

    Together with the new materials, sustainable and environmentally friendly, the exterior design reveals some neat features. First, the Pale Brodgar accents on the exclusive 21-inch twin-spoke wheels and the lower bright ware bumpers, along with the neat headlight design scream a sporty character, but with elegance and serenity in mind.

    SEE ALSO: ATS CORSA RR Turbo SERIE CARBONIO – Sold out for 2021!

    Some of the additional standard features include:

    • Touring Specification – Bentley’s suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, Safeguard+, Night Vision and Head-Up Display
    • Ann electrically deployed, illuminated Flying B bonnet mascot
    • LED Welcome Lamps (projecting Bentley Wings to the floor from all four doors)
    • Leather headliner
    • Three-dimensional diamond leather upholstery to doors and rear quarters
    • Bentley Rotating Display
    • Interior mood lighting

    2021 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid

     

  • ATS CORSA RR Turbo SERIE CARBONIO – Sold out for 2021!

    2021-ATS-Corsa-910ATS CORSA succeeded in creating a special project with the RR Turbo CLUB SPORT, which managed to achieve the perfect balance between low costs and high performance.

    Now raising the bar of the quality and performance even higher, the revised CORSA presents even more cool features. Some of these include a glossy or matte autoclave-molded carbon fiber bodywork finish. The choice of carbon fiber allows the car to achieve an exceptional power-to-weight ratio of 1.38 kg/hp when considering a maximum power output of up to 600hp and a dry weight of just 830kg.

    For the inside, engineers decided to mimic the cabin of an F1 car. The most notable new addition is the ultra-compact 300mm multifunctional steering wheel, a large 5.5-inch TFT display, and an additional 7cm of extra space above the driver’s legs.

    SEE ALSO: Kia Charge wins ‘Best Eco Car App’ awar at the Marie Claire Sustainability event

    Other features:

    • Carbon bodywork (only 25kg).
    • 18″ ATS Corsa solid milled forged wheels.
    • CNC machined Ergal F1-style high-tech steering wheel with large 5.5″ TFT display and integrated paddle shift.
    • Frontal security crashbox in Honeycomb.
    • Manual three-way dampers (electronic on request).
    • Complete carbon and Ergal intake system with further reduced weight.
    • Pneumatic lifting system with 3 AirJacks.
    • Winner Techno Package. On request, for the most demanding drivers, it offers 12-way Traction Control and assisted gear shifting.

    2021-ATS-Corsa-Interior

  • Kia Charge wins ‘Best Eco Car App’ award at the Marie Claire Sustainability event

    2021 Kia ChargeKia Charge has been awarded the “Best Eco Car App” prize at the Marie Claire Sustainability Awards. The Charge is a new service by Kia which provides easier access to the growing electric charging network.

    The award recognizes and celebrates brands that contribute to sustainability and green technologies and are putting action at the forefront of their business. The winner was announced at a carbon-neutral virtual awards event.

    Kia Charge was praised for providing a stress-free solution to anxiety around the availability of charging points, frequently cited as an obstacle to electric car ownership. Kia Charge is an integrated public charging service, designed to give drivers easier access to public vehicle charging.

    The includes multiple charging networks into one solution, giving Kia EV and PHEV drivers access to tens of thousands of charging stations. The service allows users to start a charge via the app or by using a radio-frequency identification (RHID) card. Instead of numerous individual transactions charged by different charge point operators, payments are made via a single itemized monthly invoice.

    SEE ALSO: Bowler Motors team transforms a lucky Defender into a rally beast

    Kia Charge also offers bolt-on access to the IONITY ultra-fast charging network. Because of Kia’s partnership with IONITY, Kia Charge users can use many discounts on the IONITY network.

     

  • Bowler Motors team transforms a lucky Defender into a rally beast

    2021-Land-Rover-Bowler-910Bowler Motors, the off-road performance specialist, has revealed a special version of the Land Rover Defender rally car which will compete in different championships in 2022.

    The Bowler Defender Challenge is based on the Land Rover Defender 90 with a 300hp Ingenium 2.0-liter turborcharged petrol unit. The engineers have benefited from their long-term experience and improved the Defender in such a way that it now features a full roll cage, modified underbody, raised suspension, rally-spec 18-inch wheels, and column-mounted paddle shifters.

    Furthermore, Bowler Motors engineers have provided a set of electronic components, from fire protection to electrical cut-offs, and from more lighting to revised control systems. All these are fully integrated into the existing electrical system and are incorporated within the drivetrain system and interior.

    SEE ALSO: SsangYong publishes its first sketch of an upcoming SUV lineup

    Additional changes include Competition race seats, Bowler-developed column-mounted paddle shifters, and more. Furthermore, the standard doors are trimmed to remove the sill covering section, which allows the fitment of full-length, side-to-side protection. Also, the modified front-end boosts the airflow to the cooling system and houses additional race-level lighting, while the new roof spoiler contributes to this neat expression and houses new rear lights.

     

  • SsangYong publishes its first sketch of an upcoming SUV lineup

    2021 SsangYong SUV SketchSsangYong Motor Company reveals a new design of its next-gen SUV model. Under the name of X200, the new vehicle will vary the brand’s newly conceived design and tech approach, presenting the value and future plans of upcoming products.

    The design philosophy is driven by the “Powered by Toughness” motto and emphasizes the importance of visuals in a vehicle. Also, alongside the themes of masculinity and modernity, the vehicle will also showcase an exclusive “Korea Can Do” badge and will be influenced by four formative principles: ‘Robust Architecture’, Unexpected Delight’, ‘Vibrant Contrast’, and ‘Communion with Nature.’

    Through these ideas, not only will the brand strengthen its position as an authentic SUV brand that meets the needs of customers, but it will also use eco-friendly systems, thereby responding to the biggest trend in the automotive industry which is transforming the way we drive in the future.

    After SsangYong released the outline design of the J100 in June this year, the reaction from audiences was extremely positive. Feedback on the J100 and derivative pick-up model on domestic and overseas automotive websites indicated considerable positive interests.

    SEE ALSO: Bentley reveals the first in the world 22-inch carbon-fibre wheels for Bentayga

    Of these four elements of sculptural identity, ‘Robust Architecture’ pursues the beauty of tough structural shape and detailed sculptural beauty. ‘Unexpected Delight’ appeals to differing lifestyles, offering amusement and excitement by embodying a design that values more than mere transportation. ‘Vibrant Contrast’ expresses the original characteristics of a tough SUV through the contrast between aesthetic elements of colour, texture and modelling, while ‘Communion with Nature’ is intended to harmonise with the natural world, echoing the sensibilities of our customers, says Lee Kang, head of the SsangYong Design Centre.