Monthly Archives: September 2017
What Would The Honda Accord Type R Look Like For The US Market?
Japanese carmaker Honda doesn’t seem to be a big fan of the United States. Over the years, Honda has managed to come up with the Type R version for the first-generation Acura NSX, the Acura Integra, the Honda Accord, and the Honda Civic. Of these, only the NSX Type and the Integra Type R came to the US with the Acura badge.
For the 2017 model year, the US market finally got the Type R version of the Honda Civic. Still, that’s not enough for Honda fans there. A rendering of a Honda Accord Type R would have a more aggressive fascia and plenty of Type R features inside.
Exterior
If you are aware of the 10th-generation model of the Accord Type R, it would look similar to the rendering of the US-spec Accord, though the latter would be more significantly aggressive. The massive grille up front will stay but this time, it will come with the traditional Type R badge and red Honda logo. Other additions are the larger corner vents, the extra lip at the bottom of the fascia, and the attractive little wings on the side of the fascia.
It will also get body-colored mirrors and moonroof, as well as front fenders with gloss black vents and the red striping of the Type R wheels.
Interior
Inside, you should expect all the Honda Type R goodies such as new sports seats with ample booster support, aluminum shift knob, red stitching on all fabric, front seats made of suede material, a steering wheel with red accents between the spokes, carbon fiber and suede trim inserts, and red seatbelts for both the front and rear seats.
Other features will include the six-inch head-up display, a 4G LTE internet connection with hotspot and OTA software updates, and finally, a 450-watt, 10-speaker system with dual 2.5-amp USB ports and plenty of bass.
Renault Twingo Iconic Tops The Renault Range
We still don’t have the Renault Sport version of the Renault Twingo. For now, what Renault has given us is the “Iconic” special edition that sits atop the French automaker’s Twingo range.
The “Iconic” special addition gets more equipment over more speed, sadly, though those who want more tech will be happy to know that basically all of Renault’s equipment and technology have been thrown in the Iconic.
There’s a lot of upgrades both inside and out. It’s a fairly comprehensive upgrade, anyways, which will only cost about £14,595 for Twingo owners. On the outside, you can choose a unique “mint green” paint and some decals that will make your Twingo stand out from the rest of the pack. The interior, on the other hand, added DAB, heated seat, and satellite navigation, among others.
There are other notable upgrades, of course, such as the fabric-folding sunroof and the automatic headlights and wipers. The headlights and wipers add a touch of elegance to an otherwise very “basic-looking” car. It makes you feel like you’re inside a more high-tech car interior.
For the comfort of the driver and the passengers, Renault also upgraded the seats with crosshatched half-leather upholstery that pairs well with the heated door mists, which helps in getting rid of the pesky early-morning condensation.
When you pay for this as a package, you’ll get a £740 savings. The kit is definitely cheaper than buying a separate lower model with the package as an option.
However, despite having the kit, you’ll still get the very unusual rear-engine and rear-wheel drive setup, as well as the 0.9-liter 3-cylinder that were fitted in the other Twingos. It’s the perfect city car because it’s still good for 90bhp and can go 0 to 60mph in just 10.8 seconds. It’s safe for the environment, too, having been rated with a 100g/kg of CO2 and 65.7mpg.
Mercedes-Benz Concept EQ A Teased Ahead of Frankfurt Show
Mercedes-Benz Concept EQA
Can you still remember the Generation EQ concept by Mercedes-Benz that made its debut at last year’s Paris auto show? That signaled the German automaker’s commitment to finally introduce a fully electric lineup. It was set to preview on the new crossover model called the EQ C.
Mercedes’ latest EV concept, the EQ A, is going to the Frankfurt Auto Show. Surprisingly, though, the German brand has given us a taste of what’s to come.
The EQ A looks very similar to the Generation EQ concept shown last year. It has the same basic architecture—long hood, gaping front grille, and flared fenders. We can’t be sure about that front grille, though, since the teaser photos have been darkened to keep features secret until the motor show.
What we can derive from the darkened photos is that the new concept will have sharper headlights divided from the rest of the car’s grille and a standard hexagonal Mercedes-Benz family grille design language. The Generation EQ is being powered by an electric motor on each axle with a lithium-ion battery that has a range of 310 miles. Will we see the same one on the EQ A? We’ll have to wait for the motor show for that.
The German auto brand plans to use the EQ concept for its range of electronic vehicle lineup. Before 2020, Mercedes-Benz promised to come up with at least four electric-powered vehicles. It will also be fitted in the hybrid setups of Mercedes’ lineup of vehicles, the first one being the Formula 1-derived Project One. But don’t expect the hybrid cars for the Formula 1 Project One and the EQ to have any shared components because of the former’s race history.
The Mercedes-Benz EQ A will make its debut during the Frankfurt Auto Show, so stay tuned for more details.
Cadillac CT6 With Super Cruise Sells For $71,300
Looking for an autonomous driving car? The top-end Cadillac CT6 that has been fitted with the Super Cruise autonomous driving system will sell for about $71,300, the same price tag that the Tesla Model S with similar technology is gunning for.
Beginning this fall, the Super Cruise autonomous driving system will charge $5,000 for anyone who wants to opt for it in the Cadillac CT6 Premium Luxury trim, Uwe Ellinghaus, Cadillar’s chief marketing officer, said. The price tag will be an add-on to the CT6’s $66,290, shipping included.
Those with $85,290, including shipping, to spare can have the package on the top-end CT6 Platinum model. The Super Cruise will be standard on that trim model, which had a $500 increase from the 2017 model year but the same with the 2018 pricing.
The Super Cruise is part of the mid-model-year addition that Cadillac dubbed as “2018i.” Originally, it was expected to charge $2,500 for two models, but Cadillac has since changed the pricing options. Ellinghaus said that it’s pertinent for Cadillac to make Super Cruise standard on the top-level CT6 because it’s still a new technology. Basically, this is a “trial” for Cadillac owners who may still not know they want what the system has to offer.
He added that the Super Cruise is the kind of system you “will never want to give it up” after trying it. Ellinghaus likened it with the head-up displays.
To make it more accessible to customers, Cadillac is topping its more than 900 dealers to have the Super Cruise-equipped CT6 models in their showrooms.
The Super Cruise includes Driver’s Awareness and Convenience and Enhanced Vision and Comfort packages. Aside from controlling the steering, braking, and acceleration in certain situations, as well as allowing the drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel and feet off the pedals while driving, the system added a safety measure to monitor facial cues and pupils. The system will be able to sense when the driver is either sleeping or not paying attention. It can then send alerts through audio warnings and a light bar on the steering wheel.
Mazda3 Skyactiv-X Compression-Ignition Tech Ready For Frankfurt Show
The creme de la creme of the auto industry will gather this September at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Together with the debut of new models and limited editions from Ford, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and many others come Mazda‘s new Skyactiv-X Compression-Ignition Technology.
Mazda plans to debut the new technology at the Frankfurt show but it already began testing the compression-ignition driveway on the road. Spy photos of the new Mazda3 were seen last week. But what separates these prototypes from all the others is the very obvious Skyactiv-X graphics.
The photos showed a pre-refresh Mazda3, but the “Skyactiv-X” script can clearly be seen sprawled along the doors. Towards the rear fender, there’s a large “5” sign on it, which could mean that there are more prototypes being tested out there.
Though we don’t have many information yet about the next-generation Mazda3, it is more than likely that it will mirror the current version since Skyactiv-X is set to debut along with the new Mazda3.
What’s interesting about the Skyactiv-X is that it utilizes a mixture of spark and compression ignition that will reduce carbon emissions and improve the fuel efficiency of the engine. There’s also a supercharger, which can increase the torque output.
The Japanese carmaker has yet to give details on how many cylinders this new engine will have, but the next-generation Mazda3 is looking at being powered by a four-cylinder. We know that Mazda is already planning to electrify its lineup in select regions, so it is not impossible to see a hybrid or all-electric version of the Mazda3 by 2019.
The Skyactiv-X engine tech will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this month, when more and new details about the next-generation Mazda3 will hopefully emerge.
Ford Ranger Black Edition To Make Its Debut At The Frankfurt Motor Show
Ford’s most popular truck, the Ranger, has been fitted with an all-black trimming and exterior features for a special limited version of the current model. Called the Black Edition, it is scheduled to make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.
The vehicle will only be available for European customers, though, so the US market would have to wait until 2019 to get their hands on the Ford Ranger Black Edition. To make it more exclusive, not everyone in Europe can drive the Black Edition. There will only be 2,500 units of this edition, so you better make sure you deposit a reservation if you’re interested in owning this.
According to Ford, the Ranger is Europe’s best-selling pickup truck.
Hans Schep, general manager of Ford Europe, said in a statement that Ranger customers want the vehicle’s “tough, go-anywhere capability, and its rugged good looks.” He added that the company has high hopes and expectations for the Ranger Black Edition, which is an “attractive new limited series.”
Based on the limited series trim, the all-black special edition is a de-chromed version of the current Ranger. Instead of chrome finishing, the pickup truck will have a black grille, alloy wheels, and sports bar. It is painted in Absolute Black.
Inside, the seats are covered in leather trim and there are heated door mirrors. Standard equipment of the Ranger Black Edition includes satellite navigation, front parking sensors, rearview camera, Ford SYNC 3 multimedia system with 8-inch touchscreen, and dual-zone electronic climate control.
European market can start placing their orders in their chosen dealers now. So yes, maybe Europe is a little bit luckier because they’ll have a chance on the Black Edition. But on the other hand, they don’t have the new Bronco yet, so maybe there is enough justice in the world.
4 Things To Know About The 2019 Bentley Continental Flying Spur
The Bentley Continental range is getting an upgrade. First, we’ll have the updated version of the GT coupe, then followed by the GT convertible, and finally, the Flying Spur sedan. The latter is due in 2019, though there is no specific date as of now.
But for the first time ever, we are treated with spy shots of the next Flying Spur in action. This first glance is enough to tell us we can expect a lot of great things from the next Flying Spur.
1. Exterior
The overall exterior design has evolved from the previous one. The main elements of the upgrade can be found on the lights—the headlights have a larger inner and smaller outer lights. This is the opposite of the current design.
On the sides, the lower and upper character lines give an entirely new facade while on the rear end, the taillights are taller and don’t wrap around the sides anymore. The license plate cutout moved also from the trunk to the bumper.
2. Platform
Same with the other Continental GT range, the Flying Spur will use elements of Porsche engineering. It will be based on Volkswagen Group’s MSB platform, which was specifically designed for large, rear- and all-wheel-drive cars with engines at the front.
Developed by Porsche, the platform is being used by the 2017 Panamera. The MSB Platform uses high-strength steel and aluminum for aerodynamics and rigidity purposes.
3. Drivetrain
The current Continental GT has an upgraded 6.0-liter W-12 that can produce 626 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque. It also has a stop-start function. The same engine will be fitted in the Flying Spur. A twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine that can produce 500 horsepower is also expected.
Bentley said that plug-in hybrids will also be offered for all of their vehicles. There’s only one transmission available for all variants–an 8-speed automatic and an all-wheel drive system.
4. Other Features
The Flying Spur will host a number of great features such as a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, an instrument panel display developed from the Audi virtual cockpit, LED matrix headlights, a three-chamber air suspension, and a 48-volt anti-roll control system that uses electronic actuators on the anti-roll bars.
Tesla Model 3 Will Receive The Air Suspension System In 6 Months
Ever since the release of the Tesla Model 3, everyone’s eyes turned to boy wonder Elon Musk, the chief architect of this range of electric cars. But those who want to get their hands on the Model 3 have to wait for a while to get the best of both worlds.
Right now, Tesla Model 3 only has a few options such as colors, wheels, and the choice between a short- and long-range variant. Such a short list for a very popular vehicle, right? If you want another color than black, you will have to shell out extra for that.
The Model 3 is now in production with at least 20,000 units to be made available each month. Musk said that while this is happening, the “Smart Air Suspension” is continually being tested and will be fitted in the affordable electric car.
On Twitter, he answered a question about the release of the Smart Air Suspension. He told Twitter user Ryan McCaffrey (@DMC_R) that the feature will be made available on the Model 3 “in about six months or so.” Musk revealed that it will also come with a dual motor configuration option.
The Tesla Model 3 configurator right now has the dual-motor, all-wheel drive variant scheduled to arrive in the spring of 2018. This works well with Musk’s six-month timetable. He added that Tesla fans can also expect a performance version of the Model 3 sometime in 2018.
The Smart Air Suspension can raise or lower the car after it is enabled to learn and adapt to roadways. With the help of the onboard GPS, a road detail log is available. This allows the car to safely creep into unlevel driveways or places that require lower or higher ride heights.
The Smart Air Suspension option became so popular on the Model S and the Model X that it has become standard on later Tesla models. Before it became part of the package, you will have to shell out $3,000 for the option.
The options for the Model 3 won’t be available until a few more months. Other options will become active in about a year or so.
3 Things You Have To Know About The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon
The Dodge Challenger, which nameplate was revived in 2008 after a 25-year hiatus, is the oldest muscle car available in the United States. With underpinnings from W211-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2002-2009), the Challenger was able to survive competing with the modern Mustang and Camaro.
Though the Challenger is basically a dated race car, it’s still one of the favorites of most car enthusiasts. This coming 2018, the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon will bring the brand to a whole new level.
Here are the top 3 features of the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon based on a report:
1. Exterior
If you saw the Hellcat, then you’ll have a good idea what’s to come with the Challenger SRT Demon. It’s basically a Hellcat in “steroids.” The most notable features are the revised splitter and the wider and taller hood scoop. On the sides, the body is wider and the fender flares hide fatter tires and improve the car’s aggressive stance. The Demon head badges can be found on the front fenders.
There are 14 exterior colors available for the Dodge such as B5 Blue, Billet Silver, Destroyer Grey, F8 Green, Go Mango, Granite Crystal, Indigo Blue, Maximum Steel, Octane Red, Pitch Black, Plum Crazy, TorRed, White Knuckle, and Yellow Jacket. Optionally, you can have a Satin Black engine hood or the Satin Black hood, roof, and decklid package.
2. Interior
When it comes to the interior of the car, you will remember the 2015 Challenger. There is not much to talk about it, except you’ll find the Demon head logos on the seat backs, the Alcantara steering wheel, the bespoke TFT display, the white-faced gauges in the instrument cluster, and the carbon-fiber badge with “Demon” script.
The Demon comes only with one seat, though you can turn it into a five-seater for a measly $1 each.
3. Drivetrain
The Demon is currently being powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine just like the Hellcat. The engine now has a larger, 2.7-liter supercharger, as well as increased boost pressure, a higher rpm limit, and a larger induction air box.
The total output is 840 horsepower and 770 pound-feet of torque. That’s a 133-horsepower increase from the one found in the Hellcat.
Charging from 0 to 30 mph takes just one second, and to reach the 60-mph mark, you only need 2.3 seconds. This makes the Demon quicker than supercars like the Ferrari LaFerrari, McLaren P1, and Porsche 918 Spyder.
Top 3 Features of the 2017 Mini Electric Concept
Mini is looking at finally introducing its first electric car as it just unveiled the Mini Electric Concept ahead of the Frankfurt Motor Show this September. The modern Mini arrived in 2001 and was redesigned in 2006 and 2013. Since then, it has become more of a fashion statement rather than an affordable car for any individual.
1. Exterior
When you first look at the Mini electric concept, it would look like a reworked Cooper to you. Seeing as the Cooper is the brand’s most iconic car, it’s easy to see why the same design and body style were used for the concept. If Mini wants to survive in this particular segment, it better make use of what made it famous in the first place.
There are new features, of course, such as the closed hexagonal grille and the striking yellow accent stripe and round “E” badge. The grille was designed to improve aerodynamics. The headlamps are the same but it now features new LED cluster. The same can be said on the sides and the rear of the concept—it’s looking more and more like a redesigned next-generation Cooper.
2. Interior
Mini did not reveal anything about what we’re going to find inside the concept car, so it looks like the concept is more aesthetics than comfort. If anything, we can assume that the concept will look like the standard Mini Cooper. This means big round center stack, a large speedo behind the steering wheel, and an overall clean dashboard design.
3. Drivetrain
The concept will be 100-percent electric. There’s an option under BMW’s current lineup. Called the i3, it uses a synchronous electric motor that can produce 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It can reach 62mph from a complete standpoint in just 7.3 seconds. Top speed is 93mph.
The concept’s battery can reach a range of 186 miles on the European NEDC cycle and up to 158 miles based on the Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP).
