Tag Archives: naias
Top 3 Expectations From the New Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class will get a redesigned model this year. The iconic SUV of the three-pointed star brand has been confirmed to make its world premiere at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week.
Last year, we have been seeing spy shots of the new G-Class under a zebra camouflage. Mercedes also released several teasers of the vehicle’s interior, and its camo-free photos were leaked a few days ago.
Based from spy shots, teasers and leaks, here are the top three things that we are expecting from the new G-Class:
1.Exterior Design
The leaked images of the Mercedes G-Class reveal that its distinct, classic, boxy styling will remain. Examining the auto closely though will show an updated design in the bumpers, grille and lighting system. The SUV looks more spacious than its predecessor too.
2. Interior Elements
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- The G-Class gets a more luxurious layout.
Major changes will be introduced in the interior of the new G-Class. Some of the tech found in the S-Class and in the E-Class cars of its maker will make their way into the SUV.
The most prominent feature its cabin is its dual display integrated in the dashboard. Then the layout of its controls have been updated for easy access of its functions.
The occupants of the auto are treated to its high-end two-tone leather surfaces as well that adorn its seats, panels and dashboard. Moreover, chrome linings highlight its knobs, handles, buttons and air vents.
3. Driving Performance
The G-Class recently completed its last leg of testing in the rugged and 1,445-meter high Schockl track. The SUV navigated its way to the demanding 5.6 km route of the mountain demonstrating its improved climbing ability, suspension and front axle design.
The new G-Class promises approach and departure angles of 31 degrees and 30 degrees, respectively with max fording depth of 27.5 inches.
Furthermore, a nine-speed automatic transmission will be carried into the G-Class. Lastly, it will introduce the “G-Mode” drive program for better off-roading experience with the vehicle.
Honda and Acura to Unveil New Concepts at 2013 Detroit Auto Show
The 2013 North American Auto Show is coming up next month, and several automakers are prepping to debut new, innovative models and concepts. Two automakers, in particular, Honda, and its luxury marque Acura have plans to showcase new SUV models.
The new Honda SUV, which was recently teased in a released sketch and has been labeled the Honda Urban SUV Concept, is “a global concept model combining a sporty and dynamic SUV profile with a spacious, functional interior,” according to the brand. It’s scheduled to be revealed during the brand’s NAIAS press conference, which will also be available to non-attendees via a live webcast at hondawebcast.com.
The new Honda appears to compete with the likes of the Mazda CX-5 and the Nissan Murano and Juke, as it seems to be a smaller version of the 2013 Honda Crosstour. The model seems like a success in the making, so it should be interesting to see how the sales numbers stack up.
We expect the SUV to perhaps hold the brand’s new diesel engine, available in 1.6-liter and 1.5-liter variants for future models. The concept appears to be built on the brand’s new Jazz platform, and it could be sent to production lines by 2014.
The 2014 Acura MDX SUV prototype is rumored to feature appealing proportions, with smooth arching body lines paired to a rather efficient architecture, according to Honda. Acura released a more concrete image of this vehicle compared to the new Honda model, and the brand has stated that it “will feature alluring proportions with smooth, arching body lines matched to an efficient architecture.”
Though Acura also hasn’t released any technical specs, it’s possible that the 2014 MDX model will keep its current 300-hp, 3.7-liter V6 engine. We’ll also have to stay tuned to see if the SUV keeps its current Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive systems or use a simpler system, as seen in similar models.
The 2013 Detroit Auto Show is open to the public from January 19th to the 26th. Most automakers will unveil more than forty new or refreshed models during the first two press preview days of the show, as well as the following two industry days. The charity preview, which raised $3 million in 2012, will take place on the 18th.
The majority of the vehicles showcased at the event are expected to be world debuts. Last year’s Detroit Auto Show featured 42 vehicle introductions, including 38 global debuts, 26 of which were production models and 12 concept vehicles. Also, media registrations increased by about 15-20 percent last year.
This past year, more than 770,000 people attended the 2012 NAIAS on the days it was available to the public, while an additional 40,000 attendees came to the events leading up to the main show.