Daily Archives: January 25, 2018
2020 VW Golf Gets Powerful GTI And Golf R, But No e-Golf
Are you waiting for the next-generation Volkswagen Golf? The eighth-generation model will most likely make its grand debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next year, but we now have emerging details on what we would most probably see when the launch arrives.
According to a report by Auto Express, the VW Golf will spawn two powerful models—the GTI and the Golf R, in addition to a plug-in hybrid model that we will know more details about in the coming weeks. The problem? Those who are expecting we’ll finally see an electrified version of the Golf will be disappointed. It appears from the report that plans for e-Golf have been shelved, at least for now.
The Golf’s performance-oriented models, the GTI and the Golf R, on the other hand, will get more powerful in the next-generation versions. Both models will get boost in power for a total of 250 horsepower for the GTI and 350 horsepower for the Golf R.
In terms of competition, the boost in power will put the GTI at the same level as that of the Ford Focus ST and the Subaru WRX while the Golf R can compete with the likes of Ford Focus RS. It will also be a lot closer in specs with the Mercedes-AMG CLA45 and the GLA45 models.
e-Golf Plans Gone, Gone, Gone
The unfortunate thing is that plans for the e-Golf, which Volkswagen previously boasted would have a 186-mile range, have been shelved for now. The electrified version of the Golf is not included in this eighth-gen iteration of the model. According to reports, e-Golf fell victim to VW’s focus on the I.D. line, particularly the I.D. hatchback, which will arrive possibly in 2021 after the new Golf for Europe has been released.
That hatchback, VW said, would deliver 373-mile maximum range for Europe. In the United States, the first I.D. would be the production version of the I.D. Crozz in 2020, followed by the I.D. Buzz van in 2022.
What we can expect now is that the current-generation e-Golf would stay until the I.D. makes its debut.
5 Reasons We’re Looking Forward To The 2019 Ford Ranger
After a seven-year hiatus, it looks like Ford is back in the midsize truck segment. The 2019 Ford Ranger is no F-150, but it will do just fine to battle it out with the likes of the 2019 Ram 1500 and the Chevrolet Silverado, which, like the Ranger, made its debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
1. Exterior
The 2019 Ranger will be offered in three trim packages and uniquely, two appearance packages. Let’s talk about the trim packages first. The base XL will be produced for fleets, contractors, and anyone who focuses on function rather than form. The mid-grade XLT has more features and it doesn’t look like a work truck. Finally, the Lariat trim is for those looking for everything—luxury, form, ability, etc.
Surprisingly, Ford is not offering a Platinum or Limited trim model to compete with the GMC Canyon Denali. As for the appearance packages, the 2019 Ranger can come in Sport or Chrome packages. There are also two sizes—the SuperCab (extended cab) and the SuperCrew (crew cab).
2. Interior
The super sleek exterior is just about right with what we’re going to find once we go inside. The 2019 Ranger has a dashboard similar to Global T6 Ranger with an 8.0-inch SYNC 3 infotainment system wherein you can control such features as the Ford+Alexa connectivity and the optional B&O sound system. The gear shifter is console mounted and Ford wouldn’t disappoint you with its optional FordPass 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot for 10 devices.
3. Drivetrain
The powertrain is irresistible. It comes with a single engine for now, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder that is similar to the one used by Mustang. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that is standard across all devices. There is an option for either a rear-wheel drive or an all-wheel drive, as well as for an electronic locking rear differential.
4. Safety
Every 2019 Ranger will come standard with Automatic Emergency Braking. The XLT and Lariat trims will come equipped with Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, a Reverse Sensing System, and Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage. Those spending their money on the Lariat trim can also opt for the Pedestrian Detection and Adaptive Cruise Control.
5. Pricing
Expect the Ford prices to be somewhat near its competition. The base XL will most likely sell for $23,000 while the Lariat can have a price tag of $42,000.
3 Things We Learned From The 2020 Audi Q3 Spy Shots
Audi is working on its next-generation Q3 crossover, we all know that, but these spy shots revealed where in the development process is Audi right now. Well, it looks like everything is on schedule and we’ll see the next-generation Q3 as a 2020 model this 2019 in distributors’ showrooms.
1. No Surprises In Q3’s Exterior
There are no surprises in the design of Audi’s compact crossover SUV, the spy shots revealed. Based on the images, the next-generation Q3 will resemble a scaled-down version of the latest Q5, though this one will have a more dynamically proportioned body. To further highlight the difference, the current-generation Q3 was seen on the road together with the upcoming Q3.
The crossover SUV will use the same and familiar MQB platform design used by the VW Group in almost all of its compact cars and non-premium midsize models.
2. Plug-in Hybrid A Possibility
The new-generation Q3 will be powered by turbocharged inline-4 engines, but there is also a possibility of seeing a plug-in hybrid option. Expectations are high, too, that Audi will have the same RS Q3 in the works. With 400 horsepower from a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-5, there should be no question that this one would be a favorite.
The good news? Audi Sport might offer the RQ3 in the United States market this time around. Remember, the US market has been adamant it wants the same preference that Audi has for the European market.
3. Electric-Powered Cars In The Pipeline
The redesigned Q3 is just one of the five new SUVs that Audi is working on. There are others in the horizon, such as the electronic e-tron and e-tron Sportback models, as well as the coupe-like Q4 and Q8. There are also rumors that Audi is working on a Q1 subcompact SUV based on the next-generation A1.
