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Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 comes with a next-gen FIA-approved roll cage

The new Lambo Essenza SCV12 is the first vehicle on the market that features carbon fiber roll cage homologated according to the FIA Hypercar safety standards. This achievement is the result of the Lambo team’s 30 years of experience in the study and practice of composite materials in the automotive field.

The special chassis model is produced in Lamborghini’s CFK Department in Sant’Agata Bolognese, the division that also produces the Aventador lineup.

The testing requirements are extremely rigorous and require both static and dynamic examinations. This means the technicians have modified the structure after tons of tests and have managed to present us with the optimal result.

As it comes to the cage itself, it features a reinforced structure that can withstand a force of over 12 tons. There have been more than 20 static tests conducted aided some modifications and improvements to be carried out to the chassis, pedals, belts, and fuel tank. The dynamic tests, on the other hand, have contributed to enhancing the overall rigidity and safety within the cage.

Furthermore, the decision to incorporate an entire carbon fiber roll cage, instead of a steel one has allowed the engineering team to reduce the overall weight of any vehicle with such a cage, and also ensure optimal driving comfort, all along with enhancing the overall driver’s safety.

SEE ALSO: Volvo C40 Recharge showcases brand’s plans for future models

Within the Essenza SCV12, the driver sits on an OMP FIA 8862 homologated seat, mounted on carbon fiber cradles designed by Squadra Corse and produced in Lamborghini’s CFK laboratories. The seat is lowered, compared to the road models and the driver and passenger benefit from one more layer of protection – the two side-impact guards contribute to a safer and more pleasurable ride.

The first units of Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 were delivered to customers in April 2021, and the dedicated program of track events will start at the end of June.

June 8, 2021
Volvo C40 Recharge showcases brand’s plans for future models

The new Volvo C40 Recharge is clearly showing the future for the Swedish manufacturer: this is the first all-electric Volvo machine and it demonstrates how future brand models will operate and what we should expect from them.

Based on the XC40 model, the C40 comes with the same strong character and as many advanced technologies, but also presents a character of its own: thorough the exterior and interior design and the dedicated drivetrain system, this vehicle definitely differs from its siblings.

The concept behind C40 Recharge

Influenced by the Scandinavian landscapes, the latest family member showcases an aggressive exterior design and interior characterized by functionality and a focus towards convenience.

Some of the notable exterior features include the design of the exclusive wheel, redesigned rear spoiler, and neat roofline design.

Along with the electric drivetrain, Volvo engineers decided to include as many sustainable materials in the vehicle as possible. This results in presenting a vehicle that features components made of recycled plastic, naturally renewable wool fibers, recycled suede textile, and micro-tech materials. Needless to say, the interior is also completely leather-free.

SEE ALSO: Kia reveals the first official images of the new Sportage lineup

As expected, using renewable and recycled materials is one half of the sustainability goal, the electrified drivetrain is the other. Coming with efficient engines and advanced technologies, the new generation of Volvo vehicles confidently demonstrates how performance and pleasure of driving can be achieved without sacrificing quality or precious resources.

June 8, 2021
Kia reveals the first official images of the new Sportage lineup

Kia team has revealed the first official images of the all-new Sportage, the SUV that helped the brand take home numerous awards. In September Kia will unveil a dedicated European version for the first time in its history.

Exterior design

Adopting Kia’s new design philosophy, the so-called Opposites United, new Sportage showcases elegant and crisp lines along the entire body, a muscular and confident stance, and tons of redesigned components that altogether contribute to the vehicle’s contemporary look.

The front face creates an instant impact with its black grille and expressive headlights, while the side profile proudly showcases clean and refined surfaces with contrasting volumes. Furthermore, the black roof brings some dynamics and accentuates the vehicle’s sporty spirit, thanks to its notable curvature.

At the rear, the all-new Sportage maintains this strong presence with its wide shoulders, distinctive rear lamps, and overall tight and muscular design.

Interior design

The interior of the all-new Sportage adopts intuitive and advanced technology and creates a cozy ambiance for all occupants.

SEE ALSO: New Tacoma TRD Pro lineup is ready to tackle down every off-road challenge

In terms of design, the cabin adopts a slim and curved display with finely detailed air vents that altogether form the dashboard of the spacious cabin. This approach is complemented by the ergonomic central console that blends convenience and luxury.

Stick with us for further details.

June 8, 2021
Vauxhall reveals the first images of the new Astra model

Vauxhall reveals the first glimpse of the new Astra – the first generation of fully electrified Vauxhall vehicles. The images showcase a dedication to details and high attention to all components of the vehicle.

What impressed us is the set of elegant lines and neat curves, all along with the ultra-slim LED headlamps design that will again revolutionize the compact market segment. Also, at the rear, we see a new design characterized by tight lines and just perfect proportions.

In terms of interior, the new Astra showcases a neat and elegant design with a new Pure Panel digital cockpit and fully glazed surfaces. The physical controls are reduced to the core functions in the form of elegant keys and all the textures, materials and small details contribute to this cozy and elegant ambiance.

SEE ALSO: Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 comes with a next-gen FIA-approved roll cage

Designed by the team of the British Design Vice-President Mark Adams, the new generation of Astra vehicles will be available as a dynamic five-door hatchback and versatile Sports Tourer estate. This approach will allow the Vauxhall team to offer enhanced flexibility to customers and grant them an extended list of customizable options.

More information for the new Vauxhall Astra will be available in the upcoming months.

June 8, 2021
New Tacoma TRD Pro lineup is ready to tackle down every off-road challenge

Toyota proudly presents the new TRD Pro lineup. These vehicles are especially designed for some aggressive off-road performance and feature tons of neat technologies. Let’s find out more!

For the 2022 model year, Tacoma TRD Pro comes with next-generation TRD fine-tuned Fox internal bypass shocks and features some changes to the suspension system.

What is special about this vehicle, is the increased front lift and the machine-forged aluminum construction for some enhanced strength. This setup allows the vehicle to use its FOX shocks to make use of the additional rebound stroke offered by the ball-joint mount.

Drivetrain system

The TRD Pro is base on the Tacoma TRD Off-Road 4×4 Double Cab short-bed model and can be specified with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic. Furthermore, the vehicle is fitted with FOX 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks tuned by TRD engineers. There’s also a TRD Pro aluminum front skid plate with red TRD lettering and unique LED headlights.

Furthermore, there’s a TRD-tuned cat-back exhaust that provides a menacing roar, produced by the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine. In fact, this engine also features Toyota’s innovative VV-iW technology and Atkinson-cycle combustion to maximize performance and efficiency. The output is measured at 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of peak torque.

Exterior and interior design

New Tacoma TRD Pro showcases a design language that is significantly different from the previous models. First, there are some exclusive body finishes that customers can choose from – Lime Metallic, Super White, Magnetic Gray Metallic, and Midnight Black Metallic for the 2022 model year.

Also, the Tacoma TRD Pro proudly demonstrates a new grille design and exclusive hood graphics. TRD Pro also features a color-keyed rear bumper, door handles, and power outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, and black over-fenders.

SEE ALSO: Toyota launches a limited-run of GR Supra A91-CF Edition models

Inside, the TRD design is focused around the black-leather-trimmed heated front seats, TRD shift knob, and TRD Pro All-weather floor mats.

Safety features

The engineering team has included Toyota Safety Sense-P includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, and Automatic High Beams. Further enhancements include Star Safety System with Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop brake override technology.

Furthermore, every Tacoma vehicle has the driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System, driver and front passenger knee airbags, and front and rear Roll-sensing Side Curtain Airbags. Active head restraints for Tacoma’s front seats are designed to move up and slightly forward during a rear-end collision to help reduce the risk of whiplash. Additional standard safety features include a Tire Pressure Monitor System (with individual tire location alert on most grades).

June 7, 2021
Toyota launches a limited-run of GR Supra A91-CF Edition models
Toyota team presents a special Supra edition. Limited to only 600 units, the 2022 exclusive model comes with numerous custom components details. Alongside the elegant and yet aggressive styling, the Supra presents advanced drivetrain system. Let’s check out more, shall we?

Exterior and interior design

The GR Supra A91-CF Edition comes with a new carbon fiber front splitter and large canards, and also carbon-fiber side rockers. At the rear, the vehicle showcases carbon fiber treatment with a duckbill spoiler and lower canards.

This design approach doesn’t serve only as an aesthetic feature. It contributes to greater downforce and stability during both everyday drives and race approaches. Also, the exclusive 19-inch wheels in matte-black complement the sporty stance of the vehicle.

In terms of interior, the vehicle brings exclusive and elegant interior design with a red and black theme through the Alcantara-dominated cabin. The styling concept includes red stitching, heated sports seats, carbon-fiber components, leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, and sporty pedals.

Drivetrain system and safety features

The GR Supra features a 382hp turbocharged three-liter inline-six engine that enables the vehicle to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds. The vehicle also features a redesigned chassis and now it comes with reduced weigth and enhanced rigidity.

All GR Supras come equipped with a number of intelligent safety features, including a Pre-Collision System, with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Speed Limit Information.

SEE ALSO: Toyota presents new GR 86 model lineup

A Safety & Technology Package is also available. It includes:
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (Full speed)
- Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- Parking Sensors with Emergency Braking Function
June 7, 2021
Toyota presents new GR 86 model lineup

The vehicle that marked Toyota’s sportscar heritage will now give the brand’s enthusiasts even more agility, style, and aggressiveness with the unveiling of the new 2022 GR 86.

The vehicle comes with a wide stance and low center of gravity and tons of drivetrain upgrades and changes. Some of the neat exterior features include elegant curves and lines, along with functional air vents, aluminum roof panels and fenders, and more.

In terms of drivetrain system, the GR 86 features a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated and horizontally opposed four-cylinder boxer engine with a total output of 228hp and 184lb-ft of torque. These rates are optimized thanks to the tweaks like increased bore size, some fine-tunings on the exhaust system, and enhanced dual injection technology.

Furthermore, the vehicle is available in two grades, GR 86 and GR 86 Premium, with optional specs like exterior colors, exclusive rear duckbill spoiler and more.

The cabin benefits from deep bucket design seats and side bolster that keep driver and passengers supported during sharp cornering. Additional upgrades include a three-mode digital display, an 8-inch Multimedia Touchscreen, an eight-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto smartphone compatibility, and a Sirius-XM navigation system.

However, let’s check out some more features in detail!

Exterior and Interior Design

Influenced by “hachi-roku” forefather, the GR 86 showcases an athletic stance with aggressive styling. The front face features a GT-Specific Functional MATRIX G Mesh grille, angular LED headlights, and neat side sill spoilers. Additional elements include 11.4-inch vented front and rear brakes, Michelin Primacy HP tires on 17-inch wheels on the GR 86, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires on 18-inch wheels on the Premium grade.

Drivetrain system

For the new GR 86, the Boxer-4 engine design is focused entirely on balanced agility. The horizontal cylinders ensure excellent weight control and allow for super low placement in the engine bay, resulting in well-grounded stability.

SEE ALSO: New Hyundai IONIQ 5 is aready available for order

The 2.4-liter engine is larger than its predecessor and features a displacement of 2387cc. It retains Toyota’s advanced D-4S Dual Injection technology system that blends direct fuel injection and port-injection technology. This setup ensures a cooling effect in the cylinders and allows the engine to use a high 12.5:1 compression ratio for maximum power.

Safety and utility features

Both grades come with Toyota’s Star Safety System and include Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Brake System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Brake Assist. The vehicles also include Smart Stop Technology, Vehicle Stability Control, Track Mode, and Hill Start Assist Control. Additional safety features include LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) with lower anchors on outboard rear seats and tether anchors on all rear seats and a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS). Seven airbags are standard on all models, with the addition of a driver’s knee airbag.

The Automatic Transmission version comes with an active safety standard that includes Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Lane Departure Warning, Sway Warning, Lead Vehicle Start Alert, Cruise Control, and High Beam Assist.

June 7, 2021
Toyta reveals details for the new Corolla Cross lineup

New 2022 Corolla Cross made its debut today and features everything that would make the lineup stand out from the crowd.

The vehicle is available with either a front-wheel-drive or an AWD variant and can generate a total of 169-hp via its 2.0-liter Dynamic Force engine. Furthermore, the new Corolla features a fine-tuned suspension system and fully independent AWD driving modes and enhanced towing capabilities measured at 1,500lbs.

Available in three grades – L, LE, and XLE – the new Corolla Cross offers plenty of space and contemporary utility gadgets. All trim levels are based on the TNGA-C platform and feature a distinctive black grille, neat LED light design, and exclusive 17- or 18-inch alloys.

In terms of interior, Corolla Cross shares many similarities with its hatchback relatives. There’s a powerful moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and comfortable 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seats.

Furthermore, the cabin includes a 7-inch Multi-Information Display with a digital instrumentation layout and an optional 8-inch multimedia touchscreen. There are also Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone incorporation, as well as USB charging ports.

SEE ALSO: New Tacoma TRD Pro lineup is ready to tackle down every off-road challenge

Optionally customers can specify their Corolla Cross with Audio Plus multimedia with Remote Connect and 9-speaker JBL audio system.

In terms of safety features, all trim levels include the Toyota Safety Sense suite and numerous other advanced active and passive safety technologies. Some of these include Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking, and nine airbags.

June 7, 2021
New Hyundai IONIQ 5 is aready available for order

The new Hyundai IONIQ 5 is available for order. This is the first vehicle in the new Electric Vehicle-exclusive IONIQ lineup and the first Hyundai machine that is based on a new and dedicated E-GMP battery-electric platform.

Furthermore, the vehicle is fully electric and comes with tons or eco-friendly materials and quick recharge time – it can go up to 80% in mere 18 minutes. The covering range with a single charge is about 298 miles.

The mentioned platform, the E-GMP ensures enhanced flexibility, when it comes to drivetrain options and specs and allows a choice of three battery packs: 58 kWh with rear-wheel drive, a 73 kWh with rear-wheel drive, or a 73 kWh all-wheel drive.

Talking about specifications, the IONIQ 5 will be offered in three trim levels, SE Connect, Premium, and Ultimate, which ensure comprehensive equipment and numerous customization options.

The base trim is SE Connect 58kWh RWD, packed with advanced technologies like a 12.3” LCD audio, visual, and navigation system with DAB, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, LCD drivers instrument cluster, wireless phone charging for compatible devices, rearview camera, and smart navigation-based cruise control.

IONIQ 5 Premium adds goodies like a power tailgate and heated seats, alongside innovations like Highway Drive-Assist Level 2 with automatic lane changing function.

SEE ALSO: Customers can now order the new Volvo C40 Recharge

The Ultimate models add a heads-up display with augmented reality, BOSE premium sound system and leather seats, heated rear seats, and ventilated front seats sliding center console and V2L, among numerous other equipment.

Ashley Andrew, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor UK said: The IONIQ 5 is a watershed moment in the history of Hyundai, as the very first model built on our new Electric Vehicle-dedicated platform. Demand for IONIQ 5 in the UK and across the world has been staggering, and we’re excited to be able to open order books today to our customers.

June 4, 2021
Customers can now order the new Volvo C40 Recharge

Volvo Cars officially opened the order books for the new C40 Recharge, brand’s newest fully electric vehicle. This lineup will focus to mark a further positive ecological impact and will be offered with attractive payment plans. Also, the vehicle comes with a new and convenient Care offer with available services.

Exterior and Interior design

The vehicle offers all the benefits an SUV can offer, but also comes with a lower and sleeker design. The revised front face showcases a new styling approach and introduces new headlight design with new advanced pixel art technology. At the same time, the rear-end features an elegant design with a lower roofline.

The interior provides occupants with high seat positions and tons of customization options. What is notable for this particular model is that the interior is completely leather-free. Furthermore, C40 Recharge comes with one of the most advanced infotainment systems on the market and ensures tons of connectivity capabilities. This time Volvo team relies on their Google partnership and provides customers with Google apps and built-in Google services like Assist, Maps, GPlay, and more.

Drivetrain system

In terms of drivetrain system, the C40 Recharge is geared with twin electric motors, one on the front and one on the rear axle, powered by a 78kWh battery pack that can be recharged to 80% in 40 minutes. Its expected mileage range is about 261 miles (420km).

SEE ALSO: Hyundai TUCSON won the Best Car for Long Distances award by Auto Trader

The vehicle will go into production this autumn and will be ensembled alongside the XC40 Recharge at the Volvo Cars manufacturing plant in Ghent, Belgium.

June 4, 2021
Hyundai TUCSON won the Best Car for Long Distances award by Auto Trader

New Hyundai TUCSON has been named the Best Car for Long Distances at the Auto Trader New Car Awards, as voted for by more than 148,000 vehicle owners.

People were asked to rate their vehicles across 16 different criteria and were also asked to share their overall satisfaction or dissatisfaction with the vehicle.

As it comes to the vehicle, some of its notable features are the fully customizable digital experience. The advanced setup includes a fully digital and configurable dual cockpit, with a new 10.25-inch open digital cluster and a revised 10.25-inch AVN-touch screen. This is also the first Hyundai model to feature a full touchscreen console. It is also equipped with the latest version of Hyundai’s Bluelink® connected car services.

Some of the comfort-enhancing technologies include Multi-Air Mode with direct and indirect air vents, three-zone climate control and ventilated and heated seats.

SEE ALSO: Mountune presents new performance upgrades for Puma ST and Mk8 Fiesta

Also, the new TUCSON range can be specified in four trim levels: SE Connect, Premium, Ultimate, and sporty N-Line. The SE Connect comes with a 1.6-liter T-GDi 150ps 6MT, and is also available with a 1.6-liter T-GDi 150ps 48-volt Mild Hybrid powertrain with 6iMT or 7DCT, or a 1.6-liter T-GDi 230ps Hybrid powertrain with 6AT. A Plug-in Hybrid version is also available.

Ashley Andrew, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor UK said: Ultimately it’s the opinions of our customers that we must judge our success on, so it’s always enormously reassuring to see real-life evidence of our owners not only enjoying our cars, but also enthusing about them. TUCSON is packed with innovations and technologies designed to provide drivers with one of the most comprehensive packages in the SUV segment; stylish, practical, efficient, comfortable and fun to drive.

June 4, 2021
Mountune presents new performance upgrades for Puma ST and Mk8 Fiesta

Fans of the Puma ST are now capable of getting more out of the vehicle, thanks to the new performance upgrade packs – the m235 and m260. Also, fans of the Mk8 Fiesta ST can take advantage of the m260 kit, taking both vehicles to the next level of power and performance capabilities.

The m235 kit can be easily installed and boosts the torque and power output by 35hp and 30Nm for a total of 235hp and 350Nm of torque.

As it comes to the m260 upgrade, it provides an induction kit, charge pipe kit, and intercooler. In terms of performance, it can boost the performance to a total of 260hp and 365Nm, which is a significant boost for the 1.5-liter 3-cylinder power unit.

Both upgrade packs have undergone tons of tests and include a host of boosted functionality via the enhanced exhaust output noise, more aggressive launch control, optimized no-lift shift, and an anti-theft mode. Also, just like the previous releases, customers can benefit from the mTune SMARTflash phone app, which allows them to install the latest calibration from anywhere they want.

SEE ALSO: Toyota is about to unveil the new bZ4X Concept

Customers who wish to install the upgrade packs should also benefit from the mountune induction kit, mountune charge pipe kit, and mountune intercooler, as these gadgets further enhance the capabilities of the pack and contribute to even better and more refined performance rates.

June 4, 2021