Monthly Archives: May 2017
2018 BMW X2 Spied in Nurburgring
The BMW X2 was spied as it was being tested in Nurburgring. The sport utility vehicle is expected to make its way in the market by early 2018.
The X2 is BMW‘s answer to the Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q3, Range Rover Evoque and Infiniti QX30. Its starting price is estimated to cost around $38,000.
So far, details about the 2018 BMW X2 are still scarce, but here are its key features based on sources and hints depicted in spy shots plus the video you are about to watch below:
Exterior
The X2 obviously sits between BMW’s X1 and X3 models. The crossover is expected to put more emphasis on its styling than its practicality.
Taking many of its coupe-like design elements from the BMW X2 Concept, the production model of the vehicle will have steeper windshield, higher beltline, as well as lower and more curvaceous roofing.
The X2 will share platform with the X1. Therefore, it will be carrying the UKL architecture of its maker, which features front-wheel drive system and transverse engine layout. Since the platform also supports an all-wheel drive system, the X2 might get it too.
Interior
For now, it is hard to make out the interior design of the X2. It will possibly get the same treatment as the X1 though. It seems the X2 has prioritized space over style so it will probably have less legroom than the X1.
Engine
The BMW X2 will likely take the same engine possessed by the X1. That is a 2.0-liter inline-four power unit. The engine is good for 228 hp. However, look forward to an increase in its output in the X2.
Look forward to the SUV’s “M Performance” model also. BMW might match the power of the auto with a six-stick or eight-speed automatic transmission gearbox like the X1.
Video
Check out the new spy video of the BMW X2 here:
Toyota Land Cruiser Claims the World’s Fastest SUV Title
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is hailed as the most powerful American-made sport utility vehicle. However, the Toyota Land Cruiser just snatched the distinction of being the world’s fastest SUV.
The 2017 Toyota Land Cruiser carries a 5.7-liter V8 engine. The unit produces 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. The power is distributed to all four wheels of the vehicle via an 8-speed automatic gearbox with manual shifting mode. The configuration of the auto allows it to sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds and gain a top speed of 130 mph.
However, the Land Cruiser that we are referring here is not the standard type. According to a report from CNN Money, Toyota modified the vehicle by adding two turbochargers in its power unit, among other upgrades. The result was a massive 2,000 hp under the auto’s hood. The max speed was also increased to more than 200 mph. To complement the engine boost, the automaker lowered the SUV’s suspension and installed wider tires tires for it. The Land Cruiser was rechristened as the Land Speed Cruiser.
Carl Edwards, a former driver for NASCAR, took the modded Land Cruiser for a drive to see how fast it can go. He cruised through the 2.5-mile runway of the Mojave Air and Space Port in California with the vehicle during testing.
On the first run of Edward, he was able to take the Land Speed Cruiser up to 211 mph. After that, the engineers tinkered with the turbocharger of the auto to boost its power. With that, it achieved 230 mph on its next run, making it the fastest SUV in the world.
It should be noted though that the Bentley Bentayga remains as the fastest unmodified production SUV in the world. In 2015 the maker of the auto announced that they were able to take achieve 187 mph with the vehicle.
3 Key Features of the 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf
The 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf is VW’s only entry to the electric vehicle segment in the the US market. The German car boasts a long range and a pretty decent output.
Recently, Green Car Reports took the EV for a test drive at the Grant’s Tomb located in Manhattan’s Upper West Side in New York. Below are the top 3 features of the e-Golf based on the review:
1. Power
The Volkswagen e-Golf runs on a 100 kWh electric motor powered by a 35.8 lithium-ion battery pack. The output of the unit is 134 hp with 214 lb-ft of torque. It’s older model possesses 115 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque.
The output of the new e-Golf allows it to sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 9.6 seconds. That’s a second quicker than the older model. The source noted that they could not sense any difference from its earlier version’s acceleration time though.
2. Range
The combined EPA-rated range of the auto is 125 miles. It is a significant increase compared to its predecessor’s 83 miles range.
The charging of the vehicle takes less than six hours in a 240-volt Level 2 charging station. Using the DC fast charger of the SE and SEL premium models, and as optional add-on on the e-Golf S, an 80 percent charge can be attained in around an hour with a CCS charging station.
The article showed admiration to the engine of the EV for being quiet. The auto was also praised for its smooth handling during acceleration and while being reversed for parking.
3. Design
The VW e-Golf is basically a VW Golf fitted with electric motor. So everything from the exterior to interior design of the e-Golf and the standard Golf is the same.
2017 Volkswagen e-Golf Test Drive Photos
Check out some of the photos of the Volkswagen e-Golf while it is being taken for a spin in the gallery below:
3 Things to Know About the 2018 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
The 2018 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 has been spotted making its rounds in a testing facility. The car is expected to be the most powerful Mustang in Ford’s lineup.
In our previous article, we have featured the five most powerful American cars wherein the 2014 model of the Shelby GT500 landed in the number four spot, thanks to its 5.8-liter supercharged V8 engine with 662 hp. The 2018 model will likely surpass that based on sources.
Check out the 3 things we learned about the upcoming car based on several reliable sources:
1. Engine
The new Shelby GT500 might benefit from the 5.2-liter Voodoo V8 engine carried by the GT350. However, the GT500’s engine will possibly be a supercharged version of the unit with a 90-degree crankshaft compared to the GT350’s 180-degree piece. Other reports also speculate that it will get a twin turbo version. Look forward to its output being at least 700 hp.
The power of the car will most probably be distributed via a six-speed transmission for its standard model. A 10-speed automatic transmission gearbox co-developed by Ford and General Motors for the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 might be optional.
2. Design
The 2018 Shelby GT500 is predicted to adopt the updated styling of Mustang Shelby models except the GT350. Since the GT500 sits above its siblings, it will definitely feature a more aggressive look with huge air intakes, wider fenders, sportier diffuser, angrier front bumpers and bigger tires.
3. Pricing
We might see the new Shelby GT500 before the current year ends. It will likely have a starting price tag somewhere around the $65,000 mark.
The auto will come as Ford’s response to the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe, BMW M4, Cadillac ATS-V Coupe and the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat.
2018 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Spy Shots
Check out the spy shots of the upcoming Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 by Car and Driver in the gallery below:
5 Most Powerful American Cars and SUVs Today
Earlier, we have discussed how automotive experts wanted the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon banned from the roads. They are worried that its ridiculously high output might trigger reckless drivers. That is subject for debate though.
For now, let us take a look at where the Dodge Demon falls under the 5 most powerful American cars and sport utility vehicles today based on an article from Fox News Auto.
1. 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon
Unsurprisingly, the Demon falls into first place, thanks to its 6.2-liter V8 engine that can produce up to 808 hp. As if that’s not yet high enough, the source said that pumping the vehicle with 100 octane race gas can raise its output to 840 hp.
2. Dodge Challenger/Charger SRT Hellcat
The Hellcats each carry a 6.2-liter V8 unit. The engine packs 707 hp. The Challenger model is capable of getting a top speed of 199 mph while the more aerodynamically-built Charger can take up to 204 mph.
3. 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is considered as the most powerful in the SUV segment. The auto shares the same engine as the Hellcat, which is good for 707 hp. The vehicle only falls a bit short in the torque department compared to the Hellcat. The Trackhawk has 645 lb-ft of torque while the Hellcat has 650 lb-ft. The SUV also boasts an all-wheel drive system.
4. 2014 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 packs a 5.8-liter supercharged V8 engine. The output of the unit is 662 hp and it can reach up to 202 mph.
5. 2018 Chevrolet Camaro Z06/Camaron ZL1
Tying in the fifth place of this list are the Chevrolet Camaro Z06 and the Camaro ZL1. Each car is equipped with 6.2-liter supercharged V8 with 650 hp. The ZL1 has faster shift times than the Z06 though as it has a 10-speed automatic gearbox compared to its sibling’s eight-speed unit.
3 Tips to Avoid Buyer’s Remorse When Purchasing a New Car
Purchasing a new car can either be a fulfilling experience or a nightmare. The latter can result to buyer’s remorse. So, how can you avoid that predicament?
Let me share to you the 3 smart tips to avoid buyer’s remorse when buying a new car as discussed in an article by CNBC.
Tip Number 1: Practice Your Negotiation Skills
Before going to a dealership, make sure that you have the right mindset. That’s because you will be greeted by a cheery car salesman who is trained to make you buy accessories for your vehicle that you don’t really need. In some instances, the person might even influence you to buy a more expensive car. The said scenarios would certainly bloat your expenses and ruin your budget. Also, a salesman is good at making you feel like you are making a huge mistake if you walk away from his or her offer.
One way to prepare yourself to the mentioned scenarios is by giving yourself a dry run. Go to a dealership before really buying a car. Familiarize yourself with the people and atmosphere of the place. You can talk to salesmen if you want, but no matter what, do not buy yet.
Tip Number 2: Do a Thorough Research
Gather as much info as you can on the car that you are planning to buy. Study the features of the auto using the official website of its maker. You can also check out reliable car comparison or review sites for honest evaluations from experts or other owners of the model you are looking to purchase. Again, you can visit dealerships prior to your actual purchase to ask salesmen about what you can expect from the car.
Tip Number 3: Wait Until You Really Need a New Car
There is a saying that goes, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” In this case, if your old car is well-maintained and it is still reliable, don’t give in to that impulse of buying a new one just yet. However, if you feel like your old car is no longer economical or it is showing signs of major problems, that’s where buying a new car should already be considered into the equation. This way, you are getting a new car out of need not out of mere whim, which has the tendency to lead you to a buyer’s remorse.
Snowy Showdown Between the Porsche Macan GTS and Jaguar F-Pace S
The Porsche Macan GTS and Jaguar F-Pace S belong in the best SUVs of the world today. When it comes to mechanical specifications, the vehicles are almost alike. So what happens when the two are pitted against each other?
In one episode of Head 2 Head, Motor Trend Senior Editors Jason Cammisa and Johnny Lieberman took the SUVs for a spin in the snowy peaks of Steamboat Springs, Colorado at the famous Bridgestone Driving School.
The automotive experts got into the steering wheels of the Porsche Macan GTS and Jaguar F-Pace S to see how they fare against each other in a drag race, grocery retrieval and drifting. They also take viewers inside each SUV to provide a feel on how it is like to be a passenger and driver of each vehicle.
Quick Facts About the SUVs
Before anything else, here is a quick introduction of the Porsche Macan GTS and Jaguar F-Pace S:
2017 Porsche Macan GTS
The Porsche Macan GTS houses a 3.0-liter twin turbo V6 engine. It has an output of 360 hp with 369 lb-ft of torque. The power of the SUV goes through an all-wheel drive system with a 7-speed twin clutch automatic. The curb weight of the auto is 4,506 lb. The starting price of the unit is $68,250 but the one in the video costs $89,070.
2017 Jaguar F-Pace S
The Jaguar F-Pace S is equipped with a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine. It produced 380 hp with 332 lb-ft of torque. The SUV is also an AWD and the power is distributed to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The auto has a curb weight of 4,442 lb. The starting price of the vehicle is $57,695 but the unit in the video is worth $71,018.
The Showdown
Now watch the Porsche Macan GTS and Jaguar F-Pace S go head-to-head by playing the video below: