Automobiles Review

Tag: suv

  • So What do You Go For – Speed or Safety?

    2015 Mercedes S Class Coupe

    If you ask a hundred people about which car they would buy if they were fortunate enough to have a win on the lottery, the chances are a hundred different replies will then be your reward. This is perfectly understandable, of course, because we are all individuals and we all have our own opinions on what makes the perfect vehicle.

    There are plenty of people who will choose a brand new, fresh from the showroom SUV. Tough, robust and dripping with attitude, this choice is perfect for those men and women who want to be seen. Many of these cars represent the pinnacle of car fashion these days, so you can understand why this will prove to be a common pick.

    It goes without saying, however, that many others will look for inspiration from the past. Sleek, sexy sports cars from yesteryear will always hold a certain kudos among both aficionados and people with only a passing interest in motors. You can be sure that, once they’ve received their winnings, many will head straight to the showroom.

    One of the reasons for choosing a sports car from the past is the association with a certain type of glamor. After all, it’s easy to take a Jaguar E-Type for a spin along a deserted mountain road and imagine you are Steve McQueen or Paul Newman and that you’re on your way to visit Audrey Hepburn at her south of France hotel.

    We all love to be fast, but we all need to be safe, too

    This brings up an interesting question, however, about our attitude to motoring and our relationship with cars. If you have to choose between speed and safety, do you know for sure which option you will take? Sports cars of the past – and the present, too – have plenty of speed but they aren’t always as safe as we would like them.

    Perhaps this is why many drivers choose something a little more dependable. We all hope that we will never feel the need to contact a motoring lawyer in order to make a road injury claim, of course, but if we continue to drive cars that aren’t as safe as others it could happen more often than we would like. That is simply a fact of life.

  • 2016 Terrain SUV by GMC Comes Our Way

    GMC Terrain SLT Side and Front ViewWith a modern front-end design, 2016 Terrain and Terrain Denali were introduced days before their public appearance at New York International Auto Show (NYIAS). The lineup comes with updates and tweaks that include revised fascias, power dome hood and daytime lamps. In addition, the SLE and SLT models come with Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Safety first, right?

    The number of additions for the 2016 Terrain lineup is about fifteen. Here are some of them: redesigned chrome grills for SLE and Denali, revised power dome hood, 18-inch aluminum wheel design and 19-inch aluminum wheel design for the Denali model. There is even Intellink connectivity with a three month trial. Interior comes with two packs: you can choose between the Frost Triscoat and Crimson Red Tintcoat colors.

    What catches the eye is the cool and bold design and an incredible attention to detail. The interior, geared with the GM-exclusive MultiFlex rear seat, offers big space for cargo that comes up to 63.9 cubic feet with folded back seats.

    The Ecotec 2.4L direct-injected powerplant delivers Epa-estimated 32 mpg with the FWD models. The direct-injected 3.6Liter V6 engine is capable of producing the best-in-class 301 hp (225kW) and 272 lb-ft of torque (369 Nm), combined with towing capacity of 1, 588kg (3, 500 pounds).

    The Denali model comes with incredible exterior and interior changes, one-of-a-kind wheels and other design modifications. The exclusive Dual-flow damper provides smoother driving feel and improved handling.

    So what are you waiting for? Don’t miss your chance to get along with the Terrain at NYIAS!

    2016 GMC Terrain
    2016 GMC Terrain
    2016 GMC Terrain
    2016 GMC Terrain
    2016 GMC Terrain
    2016 GMC Terrain Denali
    2016 GMC Terrain Denali
    2016 GMC Terrain Denali
    2016 GMC Terrain Denali
    2016 GMC Terrain Denali
    2016 GMC Terrain Denali
    2016 GMC Terrain Denali
    2016 GMC Terrain Denali
    2016 GMC Terrain Denali

    Source: GMC

  • 2015 Nissan Armada: Features and Pricing

     

    Obviously, Nissan has a mission to come up with a number of ways in order to delight and surprise customers as much as possible. Now with their enhanced Nissan Armada, the multinational automobile manufacturer creates a vehicle that is more than just well-equipped.

    The upcoming 2015 Nissan Armada full-size SUV receives a full-size pack of incorporated improvements which supply the car with all necessary features. The car provides bigger comfort, better on-road reliability, and excellent class.

    With its modified interior trim styling, standard power lumbar that is attached to the driver’s seat, the innovative 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheel designs, and smooth and glossy attractiveness on the outside, the car looks more than just desirable. The exterior colors are varied. The new Nissan Armada can be purchased in Arctic Metallic Blue, Pearl Black, and on top of this, Pearl White which is available as a premium.

    Variety is all around the car for 2015 Armada is available in three versions again: Armada SV, Armada SL and Armada Platinum. Each of them can be found with 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive. It is really up to you to choose. Nissan Armada is powered by refined 5.6-liter Endurance V8 engine that produces up to 317 HP (236 kW) and claims 0-60 mph times of about seven seconds due to the five-speed automatic transmission.

    The usual features of the SUV are comprised of Nissan Intelligent Key®, premium Bose® audio system that has 11 speakers, DVD Family Entertaining System, moonroof, power-folding 60/40-split 3rd row seat and rear leveling air suspension, and finally, Nissan Navigation system with NavTraffic and NavWeather information.

    The passing ability of the Armada is impressive. It has enough seats and space for eight passengers and it tows up to 9,000 pounds.

    The starting price for the 2015 Nissan Armada is $38,060 USD.

    2015 Nissan Armada
    2015 Nissan Armada

  • Dodge Durango three-row SUV now comes with Blacktop Appearance Package

    Dodge-Durango-Blacktop_thumbDodge-Durango-Blacktop_651

    Dodge has announced the addition of the popular Blacktop Appearance Package to the award-winning 2014 Durango three-row SUV. Now with the addition of the Durango the package can be found on seven 2014 Dodge models including the Charger, Challenger, Avenger, Dart, Journey and Grand Caravan.

    The main function of the Blacktop Appearance Package is to bring a distinctive, sporty and sinister look to the vehicles that make use of it. It features unique Gloss Black 20-inch aluminum wheels, dual rear exhaust with bright tips offering 295 horsepower (217 kW) with the V6 engine and 360 horsepower (265 kW) with the HEMI® V-8 engine, a Gloss Black crosshair grille with matching grille surround, Gloss Black side mirrors, Gloss Black exterior badging, black headlamp bezels, body color fascia and moldings, and five options for exterior paint colors. The Blacktop Appearance Package is available on Durango SXT, Limited and R/T models.

    “The rear-wheel-drive based Dodge Durango is already one of a kind. It stands out as the Charger of the three-row SUV segment,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and SRT Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Now with Blacktop Package, customers can make it even more unique, and it’s customized by the factory.”

    Apart from the Blacktop Package, the new 2014 Dodge Durango offers a number of improvements that include a new standard eight-speed automatic transmission, better fuel economy and performance, new LED exterior lighting, an internal 5-inch or 8.4-inch touch screen, a new programmable instrument cluster and a high-definition dual-display Blu-Ray entertainment system.

    The Blacktop Package now applies to the Dodge Durango SXT, Limited and R/T models but there is some differentiation when it comes to the extras included. To the SXT models the Blacktop Package adds Gloss Black 20-inch aluminum wheels, dual rear exhaust with bright tips, Gloss Black crosshair grille with matching grille surround, Gloss Black side mirrors, Gloss Black badging, black headlamp bezels, and body-color fascias and moldings. Blacktop is available for a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of only USD 1,590 MSRP.

    On Limited models, the Blacktop Package includes all of the above content, plus HID headlamps and LED daytime running lights (DRLs), to complement its premium leather interior, for a starting U.S. MSRP of USD 1,990.

    On the R/T, the Blacktop Package adds Gloss Black 20-inch aluminum wheels, Gloss Black crosshair grille with matching grille surround and Gloss Black badging for a U.S. MSRP of USD 295.

    There’s some difference in the engines too, when it comes to the different versions of the 2014 Durango Blacktop Package. The Dodge Durango SXT Blacktop and Limited Blacktop editions come with the Durango standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine and dual exhaust with active intake, a new standard eight-speed automatic transmission and 295 horsepower (217 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. (353 Nm) of torque. This engine can also tow up to 6,200 pounds (2814 kilograms) and achieves up to 25 miles per gallon (9.4 liters per 100 km), which means it can cover up to 600 miles (960 km) on a single tank of gasoline.

    The Dodge Durango R/T Blacktop comes with a standard 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 engine that produces 360 horsepower (265 kW) and 390 lb.-ft. (529 Nm) of torque with a best-in-class tow rating of 7,400 pounds (3360 kilograms). In addition to that the engine features the so-called Fuel Saver Technology which can deactivate cylinders. Thus when less power is needed the engine can operate as a standard 4-cylinder engine and when more power is needed it can work as a V8 engine. The fuel economy in the latter case reaches 23 miles per gallon (10.2 liters per 100 km).

    Source: Dodge

  • Škoda unveils full specifications and prices for Yeti Monte Carlo

    Skoda-Yeti-Monte-Carlo_thumbSkoda-Yeti-Monte-Carlo_651

    The Czech automaker Škoda Auto has announced full details and pricing for its Yeti Monte Carlo model – a new addition to the compact SUV car range that is full of extras.

    The Monte Carlo addition to the Škoda Yeti shows that the car celebrates the long and successful participation of the Czech brand in global stage rallies. At the same time the Yeti Monte Carlo comes with a long list of design, comfort and convenience features. The vehicle is based on the Yeti SE equipment levels but offers additional extras and features such as a Monte Carlo signature black roof with black detailing on the front grille and spoiler, rear diffuser, door mirrors and 17-inch Origami alloy wheels.

    In addition to all these extras purchasers of the vehicle will get black-tinted front fog lights, bi-xenon headlights with cornering function and dynamic angle control. On the inside the car comes with a three-spoke leather “Supersport” multi-function steering wheel, sports seats with unique Monte Carlo upholstery and exclusive design for the door sills, instrument cluster and floor mats.

    The Yeti Monte Carlo gets powered by a 2.0-liter TDI CR DPF diesel engine with 170 horsepower (125 kW) and it also has a standard 4×4 transmission. You can have the Škoda Yeti Monte Carlo with a six-speed manual or DSG sequential automatic gearbox. In the UK the first version costs GBP 24,390, while the second version sells for GBP 25,490. The manual version achieves 49.6 mpg (UK) or 5.7 liters per 100 km with 149 g/km of carbon dioxide emissions and 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 8.4 seconds. The automatic gearbox model offers 44.8 mpg (UK) or 6.3 liters of fuel consumption per 100 km at a cost of 164 grams of carbon dioxide per km and 8.6 seconds of time for reaching 62 mph/100 km from being still.

    Source: Škoda Auto

  • Mercedes-Benz Concept Coupe SUV rival of BMW X6

    Mercedes-Benz is going to exhibit a direct rival of the popular BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupe. The Mercedes-Benz Concept Coupe SUV will be previewed at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show starting this month.

    BMW X6 has been unveiled back in 2008 and already has received a minor facelift in 2012. The German manufacturer is preparing a 2nd generation of it, but Mercedes-Benz still hasn’t launched a direct rival of it. However, the long-rumored MLC is going to be introduced to the audience in a couple of weeks.

    2016 Mercedes-Benz MLC is scheduled to begin production next year in the US at the Tuscaloosa, Alabama factory alongside the M-Class. It will look considerably more aggressive than a regular M-Class and will have a “very dynamic handling”. Practically, Mercedes-Benz will create a X6 with different headlights, grille, badges and some other elements. The engine range will be taken from the M-Class except, of course, the smallest power units.

    Stay tuned for more photos and information, which will be available on April 20th during the press day of Beijing Motor Show.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept Debuts in US

    Volkswagen-CrossBlue-Coupe-concept-thumbVolkswagen-CrossBlue-Coupe-concept-medium

    Remember Volkswagen’s hunky CrossBlue SUV concept that looked thoroughly American? Well, it will now decorate the German stand at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show, but because this one is a “coupé” it is technically a “U.S. Debut”. Welcome to the Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupé concept – a sleeker, less roomy version of the original. Could this five-seater bring something fresh and exciting to the table?

    Here are the basics: 192.5 inches long and 79.3 inches wide and 66.1 inches high, the Coupé features sporty design motives: 22-inch wheels with five V-shaped double spokes, a massive hood, short A-pillars, a long and sloping roof-line, and a swept-back C-pillar. There’s also a fascination with horizontal lines (Volkswagen DNA they say):

    “The designers have combined a dominant line—one that starts in the upper area of the rear lights and runs at the height of the door handles—with a second line that begins beneath the rear lights and ends in the front fender.”

    Let’s get to the real straight talk though. Because of the MQB platform on which the Coupé is based, pretty much any four- and six-cylinder Volkswagen engine will fit inside. This current concept, however, is a plug-in hybrid with two electric motors and a turbocharged direct-injection (TSI) 295 hp V6 petrol engine. The bottom line is 415 hp of combined power. By default, one also gets Volkswagen’s MQB front suspension and four-link rear suspension; electro-mechanical steering, and a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. Electrically speaking, there’s a 54 hp motor at the front and a 114 hp one at the back, while the li-ion battery pack that powers them can be found in the center tunnel.

    Despite its still prominent size, the CrossBlue Coupé manages a 0 to 60 time of just below six seconds and a top speed of 147 mph. Yet, because of all the clever bits underneath, it has a manufacturer estimated combined fuel consumption of 70 MPGe and a “theoretical” range of 570 miles in hybrid mode. The default mode of driving is quoted as “Eco”. It is supposed to cleverly manage the power output from all sources in a bid to achieve an ideal balance of power and efficiency. Want to give it the full beans? Go for the “Sport” button which utilizes everything this SUV holds. Other modes include an all-electric one (the rear electric motor only) that holds for about 13 miles with speed of no more than 75 mph. If you run out of juice, you can switch on the “Charging” mode which sees the V6 TSI engine giving propulsion and charging the battery. Offroad mode is where it get’s complicated. Obviously, it’s an AWD mode but the back wheels are powered by the rear-electric motor, which in turn is being fed with energy from the front motor, which in turn acts as a generator powered by the engine, which in turn also provides power to the front wheels.

    Inside, Volkswagen are especially proud of their (horizontal) dasboard that “extends into the side door trims”. For materials, do not expect anything less than soft Nappa leather in outlandish-sounding colors like Authracite Pearl and Asphalto. There are also chrome surfaces, wood accents and Graphite colored Alcantra for the roof pillars and headliner.

    Don’t be fooled by all that trendy glamor as this is not your average H&M store. There are also enough gadgets inside to make even the most hardcore techie tingle with excitement. Take the “programmable” instrument cluster for example. Whilst driving in Eco mode the left side of the gauge shows the “Powermeter” and battery status. On the right you get your current speed and fuel level. The center panel can be used to display widgets such as gear selection, driving range, date and time, the weather and navigation data. In “Sport” mode, the left-hand instrument displays torque and battery status within a circling tachometer. The backseat audience also has access to the infotainment/multimedia system through two iPad minis mounted on the back of the two front-seat headrests.

    The 10.1-inch touchscreen navigation also tends to adapt in accordance with the current driving mode. In Sport mode all the surrounding buildings represented on the screen are “suppressed” so that the image becomes less busy and thus the focus being on the actual road. Switch to “Eco” mode and the buildings will rise on the horizon Inception-style. (not our simile, VW’s).

    There we are then. Expect more excitement starting on the 22th of November within the LA Auto Show, within the Los Angeles Convention center, within Los Angeles.

    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept
    Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Mahindra ready for SsangYong Rexton launch on October 17, 2012 in Mumbai

    SsangYong Motor Company, a subsidiary of the Indian UV maker Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) Limited, has revealed intentions for the SsangYong Rexton launch in the country’s auto market on October 17, 2012. Rexton, a premium Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), is the Korean auto maker’s maiden offering in the domestic car market and will be initially launched in Mumbai. Further, it has come up that Mahindra-SsangYong alliance will introduce the Rexton in a phase wise launch in other Indian cities, including other metros like Bangalore and New Delhi.

    The upcoming SsangYong Rexton features are anticipated to be of world class standards and the premium SUV that will enable the car to march its superiority on the Indian turf. The SsangYong Rexton will be pitched directly against the likes of the current segment contenders like Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Hyundai Santa Fe, upon its launch in the country. The new Rexton is expected to hold a massive 2.7 litre diesel powerplant under its bonnet, which churns out a peak power-torque delivery of 165 Nm and 340 Nm, respectively. The interior and exterior attributes of the upcoming 2012 SsangYong Rexton are believed to be of top draw as well.

    M&M, the country’s leading Utility Vehicle (UV) maker, acquired a 70 per cent controlling stake in SsangYong Motor Company in March 2011 and since then, a lot of rumours regarding the Rexton SUV prevailed in the Indian market. The upcoming SsangYong Rexton price in the Indian market will prove instrumental in governing its future in the country and industry experts believe that the new SUV could fetch a retail value around Rs. 20 lacs. The car is expected to come trimmed with all the world class features of a premium SUV and will only enhance the M&M’s Indian portfolio.

    The yet-to-be launched 2012 SsangYong Rexton reviews from the international markets have been mostly positive, besides the car looks both tough and powerful in all safety and security respects. Currently, the Indian SUV buyers have plenty of options available and the arrival of the Rexton beast will definitely add a different dimension to the market. It will be interesting to note how the SsangYong product fares in the country, as most of the domestic buyers will find the Korean brand relatively new as compared to the well positioned industry heavyweights. However, Mahindra’s marketing could work wonders for the upcoming Rexton as the company is currently the most sought after UV maker in the country.

  • Chevrolet Trax Debut at Paris

    2013-Chevrolet-Trax-thumb2013-Chevrolet-Trax-mediumThe latest Chevrolet Trax – due to debut at this year’s Paris motor show – will hopefully establish the brand in the “small SUV” niche. Mind you, to their understanding, being 4.2 meters long and 1.8 m wide is small. It’s a perfectly suitable vehicle for five, it’s high-seated and supposedly, it delivers a car-like handling on the tarmac.

    The engines however (the ones for the European markets) do suggest the Trax‘s smallishness. There will be three options:

    A 1.6L naturally aspirated petrol engine (not interesting enough apparently, to know the precise power output)

    A 1.4L turbocharged petrol unit with 140 hp on paper. With the help of a six-speed manual, this engine transfers 200 Nm of torque to the wheels. Depending on the trim, you can also get an AWD system.

    The same is true for the 1.7L doesel which produces 10 hp less but ends up with 300 Nm of torque. All powertrains that are mated to a manual (as opposed to the available six-speed automatic) also get a Start/Stop function.

    Inside, a 358-liter storage space that can come in handy on a grocery run. That includes the various compartments on the sides and under the rear seats and under the cargo floor. If one is willing to spend a bit more money, you can get technological as well – Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, a touch-screen display and a flexible navigation programme.

    In terms of safety, the LT trim Trax offers an array of standard passive and active systems. Six-airbaxs, ESC, Hill Start and Descent Assist/Control, traction control, ABS.

    The Paris motor show is due to start on the 27th of September when the world’s leading automotive companies will debut and showcase their latest products to the world. The 2013 Chevrolet Trax will hit the markets sometime in 2013.

    2013 Chevrolet Trax
    2013 Chevrolet Trax

    Source: Chevrolet

  • BMW XS Concept Render

    BMW-XS-Concept-thumbWe love independent works of 3D artists and visionaries. That’s why when we found that brilliant BMW XS design concept – which is based on a BMW platform apparently – we felt the need to share it with you.

    It has been rendered by self-taught graphic designer George Manolache who finds cars to be his ultimate source of inspiration. What’s been presented here is his vision of how hydrogen power SUVs should look like. It’s frankly stunning (as far as SUVs go). At the back end we believe we see some Evoqueishness, while at the front there lays a modern interpretation of a 1952 BMW 501’s nose. Stepping inside one finds an interior that’s rather… digital yet bio-mechanic.

    BMW XS Concept
    BMW XS Concept
    BMW XS Concept
    BMW XS Concept
    BMW XS Concept
    BMW XS Concept
    BMW XS Concept

    Those ambient red lights inside are wonderfully impractical but vital nevertheless as if you were to ask us, they act as the blood vessels of the XS. Best part of all – Mr Manolache has cobbled this video together during his spare time.

    httpv://vimeo.com/43521113

    For those of you who are more familiar with the craft of 3D and graphic designing there’s a bonus type, behind-the-scenes so to speak video. Enjoy:

    httpv://vimeo.com/43595590

    Video Source: George Manolache via Vimeo

  • Bentley EXP 9 F Images

    After a successful UK/Goodwood debut, the Bentley EXP 9 F design concept SUV comes with new images and a video. Not the breaking news we’ve been looking for but still better than leaving empty handed.

    Again, there’s talk about the EXP 9 F‘s mingle of highlights such as “contemporary” luxury, advanced technology, all-terrain friendliness and a “commanding driving position”? Usually 99% of the driving seats out there are commanding in the sense that there is a steering wheel nearby, there are pedals within reach and there’s a center console on the left/right. Whatever the position, Bentley hope to end up with the “fastest and most luxurious SUV in the world”.

    The Goodwood was a yet another venue for the EXP 9 F with which Bentley are testing the public and their attitude towards the idea of their own SUV. Before last week, we saw the concept at the Geneva International Show while in August, an appearance is scheduled at the Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach, California.

    Bentley EXP 9 F

    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept
    2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept

    Source: Bentley

  • Chevrolet Debuts SUV in Paris

    Chevrolet-Trax-thumbThe 2012 Paris Motor Show, which will be held well into the second half of this year in September, is to become the venue for a new Chevrolet. We are talking about a compact SUV which will be an obvious competitor to the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. Say hello to the Chevrolet Trax.

    What the company promises with the five-seater Trax is high value, quality, refinement and looks at a lower-than-usual prices. For now we have this render which supposedly exhibits “a musular exterior design and a wide aesthetic stance”. We can surely see it’s chunky, but athletic?

    Susan Docherty, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet Europe commented: “Trax provides Chevrolet an entry into a growing small SUV segment and delivers the flexibility, great fuel economy and car-like handling that urban explorers require.”

    The Trax will most probably hit the European markets sometime in the spring, next year. As much as 140 countries might get it.

    Chevrolet Trax
    Chevrolet Trax

    Source: Chevrolet