Automobiles Review

Blog

  • Subaru Outback: a quick technical overview

    2021 Subaru OutbackSubaru announces the introduction of the new Outback, which will be in showrooms from 27th May this year.

    The vehicle has not only retained its popularity since its initial release back in 1995, but also has multiplied its fanbase throughout the years. The vehicle offers safety, comfort, practicality, and tons of on- and off-road capabilities.

    So, let’s see what makes the new Outback even more special.

    Enhanced safety features

    The vehicle comes with optimal driving position, window heights, and carefully arranged pillars that altogether ensure excellent visibility and enhanced control over the vehicle. Furthermore, the new Outback comes with a choice of three trim levels, each of which includes the latest generation of EyeSight Driver Assist technology, Subaru’s advanced camera prevention system.

    Additional safety technologies and features include: Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering Function, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, Speed Sign Recognition with Intelligent Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning with steering wheel vibration, Lane Departure Prevention and Pre-Collision Braking System with expanded support for collision avoidance at junctions and crossroads.

    Advanced drivetrain system

    The new Outback is based on Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system and benefits from the performance of the BOXER engine series and the Linartronic Continuously Variable Transmission system. The BOXER engine is a direct-injection 2.5-liter naturally aspirated horizontally opposed four-cylinder unit and comes with redesigned build concept that allows a higher compression ratio.

    SEE ALSO: Hyundai announces details for the new IONIQ 5 lineup

    Additional changes have been applied to the suspension system and chassis, thus removing vibrations and enhancing the stability of the vehicle.

    Enhanced off-road capability

    The improved engine performance offers more power for acceleration as well as driving on rough terrain, so drivers can enjoy SUV performance in all driving scenarios.

    The latest Outback comes with a newly designed X-MODE with a Hill Descent Control system and selectable driving modes. This means that the Intelligent Drive can adjust the throttle and gear-shifting response to give the driver the needed amount of power and agility on demand.

     Source: Subaru 

  • Hyundai announces details for the new IONIQ 5 lineup

    2021 Hyundai IONIQ 5Hyundai Motor announces specifications and details for the new IONIQ 5, the first car in the lineup based on the new Electric-Global Modular Platform.

    The vehicle’s design showcases a new approach and incorporates tons of new details, first shown at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show, when the concept vehicle was first unveiled. IONIQ 5 is based on Hyundai’s dedicated battery electric vehicle architecture called Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which enables some neat proportions and elongated wheelbase. With E-GMP, the vehicle offers innovative interior design with numerous advanced technologies. At the same time, IONIQ 5 offers excellent performance rates and offers fast charging capabilities.

    IONIQ 5 will be available in 3 specification models – SE Connect, Premium, and Ultimate.

    IONIQ SE Connect offers a rear-wheel drive with a 58kWh electrical output and the standard specification includes: 19-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, , interior mood lighting, 12.3-inch LCD audio, visual and navigation system with DAB, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, LCD drivers instrument cluster, rearview camera, LED Multi-Faceted Reflector headlamps, LED stop, tail and turn lamps, rear parking sensors, electric parking brake, Navigation based Smart Cruise Control, Highway Drive-Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Alert and more.

    IONIQ 5 Premium with rear-wheel drive builds on the SE Connect trim and adds a 4-way power driver’s seat, heated driver and front passenger seats and steering wheel, auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-LED projector headlamps, power tailgate, chrome side molding, Highway Drive-Assist Level 2 (HDA II) with automatic lane change function, Forward Collision Assist with Junction function (FCA JX) and Blindspot Collision Avoidance assist (BCA). Premium trim also offers customers the optional Vehicle 2 Load pack (V2L). The V2L function allows customers to freely use or charge any electric devices, supplying up to 3.6 kW of power. The model is also available with the 73kWh battery in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive.

    SEE ALSO: New Cupra Leon adds a 245hp version in the lineup

    The IONIQ 5 Ultimate 58kWh rear-wheel-drive completes the IONIQ range with a high specification including leather seat coverings, solar and privacy glass, chrome door garnish, black gloss beltline, electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, BOSE premium sound system, head-up display with augmented reality, standard Vehicle 2 Load, sliding center console and alloy pedals. Customers can also specify the Eco-Pack which comprises a Battery Heating system and Heat Pump and the Tech Pack with Front Memory Seats, Relaxation Premium Seats, BVM (Blind View Monitor), PCA ( Parking Collision Avoidance Assist – Reverse), RSPA (Remote Smart Parking Assist), SVM ( Surround View Monitor). The Ultimate specification is also available with the 73kWh battery in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive, both of which upgrade to 20-inch alloy wheels.

    2021 Huyndai IONIQ 5 Rear

    Source: Hyundai

     

  • New Cupra Leon adds a 245hp version in the lineup

    2021-Cupra-Leon-910CUPRA introduces new engines to the Leon range, with orders already available. Brand’s iconic hatch can now be specified with a new 245hp version of the 2.0-TSI DSG-auto engine. This engine is exclusively available for the DSG-auto gearbox and delivers more efficiency and more torque power – a total of 370Nm and can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 6.4 seconds.

    The range includes VZ1 trim level, which includes 18-inch machined black and silver alloys, sporty bumper, black brake calipers, CUPRA’s unique chrome and copper interior detailing redesigned steering wheel with gearshift paddles, and sporty bucket seats.

    Furthermore, the standard features include a digital cockpit, 10-inch infotainment system, Apple Carplay, and Google Android smartphone incorporation. Additionally, the revised VZ1 trim level includes 4 USB-C charging pots, interior ambient lighting, keyless entry, and more.

    SEE ALSO: Citroen C3 celebrates one-millionth vehicle. Here’s what makes the model special

    The second trim level, the VZ2, on the other hand, comes with 19-inch machined black and silver alloys, which further enhance the exterior of the vehicle and contribute to that sporty and aggressive stance. Everything else is the same as with the VZ1 trim level.

    Source: Cupra 

  • Citroen C3 celebrates one millionth vehicle. Here’s what makes the model special

    2021 Citroen C3The third-generation Citroen C3 has reached the landmark “one-millionth vehicle”. Launched in 2016, the third generation C3 presented a new styling concept and new tech features. Also, the vehicle ranks in the top seven best-selling vehicles in Europe in 2020 and remains popular in many European countries like France, Spain, Belgium, and Portugal.

    New C3 comes with numerous customization options, and technologies like Cruise Control with Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Sign Recognition, and Coffee Break Alert. Available in seven body colors, including the exclusive to the lineup Elixir Red and Spring Blue, the new C3 can also be specified with four Color Packs for the Airbump and fog lamp surrounds. Further personalization is available with four roof colors: Emerald, Opal White, Onyx Black and Sport Red, with the roof matching the color of the wing mirrors and the quarter panel trim.

    SEE ALSO: Vauxhall Corsa-e remains one of the best-selling vehicles in the UK

    The equipment also comes with 16-inch ‘Matrix’ bi-tone wheels, Airbump panels on the doors, the Anodised Deep Red Colour Pack, gloss black door mirrors, and a bi-tone Onyx Black roof. In terms of infotainment, with New C3 models featrure a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay™, Android Auto, DAB Radio and USB connectivity.

    Source: Citroen

  • Vauxhall Corsa-e remains one of the best-selling vehicles in the UK

    2021 Vauxhall Corsa-eThe new Vauxhall Corsa is the best-selling vehicle in UK so far this year, according to the latest new car sales and registration details revealed by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

    In fact, Corsa remains the best-selling vehicle for the past 8 months, including June, July, September, and November last year. However, the highest number of sales is recorded in 2021, as Vauxhall announced 16,381 registrations, while Corsa-e remains the best-selling BEV, with 1,706 units sold.

    Commenting on the results, Paul Willcox, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: It’s great to see the new Vauxhall Corsa remain the UK’s best-selling car and we’re proud that its all-electric version, Corsa-e, is the UK’s best-selling small EV. Customer interest in electric cars and vans in the UK is at an all-time high and Vauxhall is continually expanding its line-up to offer class-leading electrified vehicles, not least with a fully electric van line-up to come before the end of the year.

    SEE ALSO: Acura MDX wins TOP SAFETY PLUS award from IIHS

    Customers can also purchase their Vauxhall vehicle via the brand’s online store, which brings the car-shopping procedure to the world of digital and in every buyer’s home. By using the digital platform, buyers can arrange a live video viewing any model and proceed to the configuration and personalization panel and then finalize the purchase, all this via a laptop.

    The latest generation Corsa is available with a fully electric engine and a choice of agile petrol and diesel units.

    Source: Vauxhall

  • Acura MDX wins TOP SAFETY PLUS award from IIHS

    2021 Acura MDXThe new 2022 Acura MDX has earned the highest possible safety rating from the IIHS – the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The MDX qualified for TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award by earning “GOOD” grade in all crashworthiness tests, “SUPERIOR” rating Collision Mitigation Braking System, and “GOOD” for the driver-assistive technologies. MDX remains the brand’s most popular vehicle and becomes the third model in the Acura lineup to be awarded TSPP.

    Furthermore, all Acura sedans and SUVs come with Acura Watch suite of safety and drier-assistive technologies as part of the standard equipment. Such include Collision Mitigation Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and Road Departure Mitigation. Also, the 2022 Acura MDX features Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, designed to enhance occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions.

    SEE ALSO: New 2022 VW Taos comes with a modernized and functional interior design

    As it comes to the award, the 2021 TOP SAFETY PLUS is given to vehicles that earn good crashworthiness ratings in all test modes, including in the passenger-side small overlap test. It also needs available front crash prevention (standard on MDX, RDX, and TLX) that earns an advanced or superior rating in both vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian testing and standard good- or acceptable- rated headlights.

    Source: Acura 

  • New 2022 VW Taos comes with a modernized and functional interior design

    2021 Volkswagen Taos InteriorIn order to help the 2022 Taos succeed in the booming compact SUV market, VW team has decided to shape the interior with fun and elegance in mind.

    The interior design of Taos reflects the simple yet modern shape of the sculpted exterior,” says Dmitry Panov, Interior Designer for the Taos. “There’s a clean and recognizable theme, which harkens to other models in the Volkswagen SUV family.

    Based on MQB platform, the five-passenger Taos compact SUV is the smaller brother of the Tiguan and offers a mix of performance and utility for young drivers who want the substance of a large SUV in a smaller scale.

    What the designers did, is to create two separate levels on the dashboard.The top level features a glossy surface and the components are angled towards the driver foe ease of use and ergonomics. The lower level provides a soft-touch surface, which covers the width of the interior and continues through the door panels on each side surrounding the front passengers. Also, for some trim levels, a distinctive set of two-tone seats are included as a part of the standard equipment.

    You can choose between a cool color scheme with neutral grey and black, or a warm color scheme where black is paired with a French roast, says Clara Schober, Color & Trim Designer for the Taos, Across the trim lines, we added contrast stitching for an additional visual pop.

    Also, owners will have the chance to customize their Taos in many different ways. For example, a panoramic sunroof is available for SE and SEL trims, 10-color ambient lightning is also an option, just like the additional VW Digital Cockpit with a 10.25-inch display.

    Source: Volkswagen 

  • SKODA unveils new Fabila lineup. Have a look!

    2021 SKODA FabiaSKODA officially reveal the new generation of the Fabia lineup. The vehicle is based on Volkswagen’s modular MQB-A0 and is by far the most spacious in the segment, boasting further improved comfort features and many advanced safety and assistance systems.

    Exterior design

    The vehicle is larger and more elegant than all of its predecessors. New Fabia features athletic proportions, sculptural lines, and an overall aggressive stance. Compared to the previous models in the lineup, the weight is the same, but the vehicle is longer, higher and wider.

    Also, along with the elegant lines and neat curves, engineers have also included a choice of two new body finishes: Phoenix Orange and Graphite Grey. Furthermore, the new SKODA Fabia comes with 14- or 15-inch steel wheels, as well as nine different alloy sets, ranging from 15 to 18 inches.

    Interior design

    2021 SKODA Fabia

    The cabin manages to strike the perfect balance between ergonomics and sportiness. Visually, it is characterized by the free-standing infotainment display and the large 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Some of the comfort features include a heated windscreen and heated steering wheel, and many more.

    For example, some of the cool characteristics are the grey contrast stitching, decorative trims and new LED ambient lighting. The central console and front door handles can also be lit up. Also, the revised design of the steering wheel provides the finishing touches to Fabia’s elegant interior.

    Drivetrain system

    2021 SKODA Fabia

    What makes the 4th generation Fabia special is that there are far more choices and combinations for the drivetrain system, compared to previous generations. SKODA offers five VW EVO engines – 48 kW (65 PS) to 110 kW (150 PS), all Euro 6d compliant. Also, all models can be paired to either a 6-speed manual gearbox or an automatic 7-speed DSG.

    SEE ALSO: Polestar launches new digital key and updates for Polestar 2

    The choice of engines consists of two multi-point injection petrol engines with front-wheel drive. These are 1.0 MPI three-cylinder engines that have a displacement of one liter and generate 48 kW (65 PS) and 59 kW (80 PS) respectively. What is also special about these, is that they feature plasma-coated cylinder blocks that replace the cast-iron cylinder liners, which reduces internal friction in the three cylinders. This contributes to lower fuel consumption and better distribution and dissipation of heat in the combustion chamber.

    The top-of-the-range is a 1.5 TSI four-cylinder, with a power output of 110kW (150hp). It features active cylinder technology and reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions to exceptional levels.

    Source: SKODA

     

  • SKODA reveals a new interior sketch of the new Fabia lineup

    2021 SKODA Fabia Interior SketchSKODA Auto reveals more details for the new Fabia lineup and gives first images of the interior of the fourth model generation. Based on VW’s Modular Transverse Toolkit MQB-A0, the cabin will offer more space, comfort and can be geared with more equipment without sacrificing interior space.

    The new Fabia will also be longer and wider than its predecessors and features an asymmetrically designed panel with a central and free-standing display, colored horizontal decorative trim that accentuates the width, and a character line beneath the display that mimics the SKODA grille design. Furthermore, the large round air outlets on the right and left create new accents, just like the colored elements in the central console and the door handles along with the newly designed chrome door openers.

    The design sketch also shows the customizable Virtual Cockpit, which remains a key feature of the large SKODA models and now is making its debut as an optional feature for the new Fabia. Also, the large, free-standing display dominates the aesthetic of the new ŠKODA Fabia’s interior. The touch screen enables the modern infotainment systems as well as many other vehicle functions to be controlled with ease.

    SEE ALSO: Polestar launches new digital key and updates for Polestar 2

    The world premiere of the fourth Fabia generation is set for the beginning of May.

    Source: SKODA 

  • Polestar launches new digital key and updates for Polestar 2

    2021-Polestar-Digital-Key-910Thanks to the Over-the-Air update, Polestar 2 now comes with new digital key technology, which allows owners to use their smartphones as a supplement of the traditional key fob. Also, the latest OTA update includes the activation of integrated vehicle functionality within the Polestar app.

    There are a total of 18 Bluetooth sensors in and around Polestar 2 that communicate with the paired device and ensure a secure authentication and ease of use. All these sensors detect the approach of the paired device and pinpoint the position of the device, allowing the doors, tailgate or charging lock button to be opened or activated with accuracy and security in mind.

    We focused on high accuracy and ease of use,” continues Thomas Ingenlath. “It’s really as easy and integrated as a traditional key fob, with no need to tap the phone against any sensors or open the app before use.

    The digital key is encrypted within the Polestar app and is protected from relay attacks as it doesn’t operate on radio frequency, but rather on a Bluetooth signal, which is entirely reliant on the paired device being within physical range of the sensors.

    In addition, to the Polestar Digital Key, the latest OTA update for Polestar 2 includes new battery pre-heating measure to improve range with more linear algorithm, and adaptation to the wireless phone charger for newer phones with additional magnetic elements.

    Source: Polestar 

  • INFINITI announces the exclusive Q50 Signature Edition

    2021 INFINITI Q50 Signature EditionNew 2021 INFINITI Q50 Signature Edition is already available for purchase and comes with numerous exclusive features, as well as some new design approaches.

    The Signature Edition blends the four-door sedan’s luxury with an elegant exterior and well-equipped interior. Some of the vehicle’s unique highlights are the neat 19-inch sport aluminum alloys, Saddle Brown leather interior upholstery with sports seats, and a neat dark chrome grille. Also, the vehicle can be specified with Dynamic Sunstone Red, Grand Blue, Majestic White, or Midnight Black finishes.

    All models in the lineup are powered by INFINITI’s award-winning twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine that generates 300hp and 295 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired to an advanced seven-speed automatic gearbox with manual shift mode.

    The Signature Edition is also special because of its well-equipped grade levels, including, LUXE, SENSORY, and the RED SPORT 400, which is available with a twin-turbo VR 3.0-liter V6 with 400hp.

    SEE ALSO: Volkswagen Golf eHybrid Style: a quick overview

    The 2021 INFINITI Q50 Signature Edition is fueled by passionate drivers looking for something as distinctive as they are,” said INFINITI Americas Group Vice President Jeff Pope. “Its exclusive interior and striking exterior shades complement the Q50’s daring attitude and exceptional twin-turbo V-6 under its hood.

    Source: INFINITI

     

  • Volkswagen Golf eHybrid Style: a quick overview

    2021 Volkswagen Golf eHybrid StyleVolkswagen now takes orders for the new Golf eHybrid Style lineup. The vehicle comes with excellent economy rates and an advanced drivetrain system.

    New Golf eHybrid comes with a 1.4-liter TSI petrol unit and an electric motor with a lithium-ion battery and generates a total of 204hp and 350Nm. Also, the six-speed DSG gearbox allows for some more aggressive performance and agile accelerating – the vehicle can speed from 0 to 100km/h in mere 7.4 seconds and chase a top speed of 137mph.

    Furthermore, the Golf eHybrid Style is generously equipped and comes with Digital Cockpit Pro, , DAB+, and mobile phone interface with inductive charging function, Dynamic Road Sign Display, a multifunction leather steering wheel, sports comfort seats, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist lane-keeping system, Front Assist Autonomous Emergency Braking, Air Care Climatronic automatic air conditioning, a start/stop system with brake energy recuperation, the pioneering Car2X local warning system, new Keyless Start keyless comfort start function, LED Plus headlights and LED tail light clusters, as well as smart 16-inch ‘San Antonio’ alloy wheels.

    SEE ALSO: New Fiat Tipo brings sportiness and aggressiveness to the lineup

    2021 Volkswagen Golf eHybrid Style

    The new Golf eHybrid’s persuasive list of attributes includes pure electric zero tailpipe-emission driving; superb long-distance fuel economy; generous equipment; and a BIK rate of only 7% – all underpinned by Volkswagen’s renowned build quality and superb retailer network. Together, they result in a  car that will especially appeal to company car drivers, as well as retail ones.

    2021 Volkswagen Golf eHybrid Style

    Source: Volkswagen