Tag Archives: suv
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
-
- 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.
2019 BMW X7 Pre-production Begins
The pre-production models of the 2019 BMW X7 Sports Activity Vehicles are now being rolled out. The units are being made at the Spartanburg plant of the automaker in South Carolina, USA.
According to BMW Blog, the unveiling of the new BMW X7 is scheduled at the end of 2018. With that said, the auto will bear a 2019 model year.
The X7 is BMW’s largest SUV so far. All we have are the photos of the vehicle’s camouflaged pre-production version. The wrap comes in a crisscrossing black and white striped pattern which completely creates an optical illusion hiding the body lines of the auto. However, the exposed areas indicate that it will not have the same large windows shown in its concept form. Then, the sunroof appears to stretch from the first and second row seats of the unit while the rear takes a separate glass top. The X7’s production version is expected to carry over the same dual kidney chrome radiator grille and thin headlamps found in its concept version unveiled at the 2017 Frankfurt Auto Show in Germany.
The X7 will be assembled on the same facility that produces the X5 and X6 SUVs of BMW. There are no details yet about the unit’s pricing and mechanical specs.
It should be noted though that the auto is still subject to minor changes on its way to its production version. What we have here is merely a pre-production model and it does not reflect the final version of the SUV, which will be rolled out to customers.
When we say “pre-production vehicles”, it means these are products made after their prototypes or development mules, which are preceded by their concept versions. These are subject for thorough testing in order to find faults before the public sale of the new model commences.
Three Mercedes-Benz G-Class Models Will Be Discontinued
The iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class will be streamlining its offerings. The German brand is looking to discontinue three models in its longest-running SUV’s lineup.
According to MB Passion, the variants to be axed in the near future are the Mercedes-Benz G350d Professional, Mercedes-AMG G65 and the Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4².
Mercedes-Benz G350d Professional
Among the three mentioned models, the G350d Professional will still see the light of day in a few years. The report claimed that Mercedes still needs to accommodate consumer demands for it.
Mercedes-AMG G65
The Mercedes-AMG G65 will get a special send-off. A Final Edition model for the V12-powered unit will be released. This will signify the end of its production. Only a few samples of the Mercedes-AMG G65 Final Edition will be made.
Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4²
The G500 4×4² is the successor of the massive Mercedes-Benz G63 6×6 AMG. It carries the same portal axles found in the six-wheeler but with a tuned down engine. Sadly, it will be put out of its pasture without much fanfare.
New Mercedes-Benz G-Class Coming Up
A new G-Class is set to debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2018. There is no official confirmation about its features yet and all we have seen so far are its spy shots. However, those who have witnessed the prototype in the flesh and other insider sources have claimed that the upcoming G-Class has a longer wheelbase and wider track.
The G-Class coming in 2018 will retain the signature look of its range. It still has that boxy shape together with the same styling featuring wide fenders flares, low beltline, narrow radiator grille and round headlamps.
The new model will run on diesel and petrol powertrains. A 4.0-liter biturbo V8 unit will probably be carried in the base model of the auto sold in the United States.
Thunder Power Unwraps Electric SUV at Frankfurt Motor Show
Hong Kong-based electric car company Thunder Power came to the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show not only to update us about its Zagato-designed sedan EV, but also to unveil a new one—an electric SUV.
Willem Sham, the CEO of Thunder Power, revealed the Thunder Power SUV, which was designed in-house in Milan, Italy and uses the brand’s modular platform. It has an electric powertrain fitted, so the car can maximize its interior space and still maintain a low center of gravity.
To reduce drag time, the automaker said it tweaked the car’s aerodynamics. The company, however, is still tight-lipped about what the electric SUV has in store for us once it reached production.
On the outside, the electric SUV is attractive enough, minus the grille’s design. The interior is comfortable and there’s ample space on the cargo area, thanks to rear doors that open rearward. It also has a panoramic roof and a large digital screen that stretches across the dashboard.
But before the unveiling of the electric SUV, Thunder Power updated its audience that the designing and the possible production of the sedan is going well. In fact, a production-spec prototype was onstage with camouflage that resembles a topographic map. The sedan is reportedly undergoing testing for battery performance.
Sham revealed that the sedan EV will have a driving range of up to 650 kilometers on the NEDC cycle. He also announced a Launch Edition Coupe with only 488 examples available. The coupe will produce 654 horsepower on its electric powertrain. It will be paired with a four-wheel-drive system and uses a torque vectoring system.
The overall design of the Launch Edition Coupe will depend on the customer’s taste, but it will have an engraved plaque of the car’s serial number. The coupe will enter production soon, but deliveries will begin on the second quarter of 2019.
3 Key Features of the 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, which is a midsize member in the Land Cruiser range, just got updated. It’s a far cry from the massive Toyota Land Cruiser that is being sold in other markets. For this year, as shown Tuesday during the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Land Cruiser Prado is made more refined.
Promising to bring safer tech features, the Land Cruiser Prado that made its debut at Frankfurt also received a modernized exterior and cabin.
1. Exterior
For a sharper and more modern look, the Land Cruiser Prado’s grille and headlights have been revised with the headlights’ main beams being repositioned to avoid damage from obstacles presented by off-road driving conditions. The hood and front fenders also received some treatment as they have been reprofiled to aid visibility.
The lower corners of the front and rear bumpers are now angled upwards to improve off-road maneuverability. The redesigned rear also has new lamp clusters.
2. Interior
The cabin of the Land Cruiser Prado is definitely more refined and upscale than previous generations of the Land Cruiser, thanks to the upgrade on the instrument cluster, the switchgear, and the center stack. The seats are covered in a luxurious cream-colored leather that goes well with the steering wheel wrapped in black and tan. The interior definitely spells luxury and comfort.
3. Drivetrain
The powertrains available for the Land Cruiser Prado will depend on the market you are coming from. It will be offered in either turbocharged inline-4 or V-6 engines. The inline-4 can be paired together with gasoline or diesel while the V-6 engines will be matched with gasoline only. Buyers can choose between a manual or an automatic transmission.
The safety features are the ones the Land Cruiser Prado is boasting about. The technology includes autonomous features (depending on the market), collision warning, adaptive cruise control, rear cross traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitor.
Expect the 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado to start its deliveries this November.
2018 Porsche Cayenne To Be Revealed On August 29
The debut of the much-awaited 2018 Porsche Cayenne will be on August 29. By the end of this year, it is expected to start production for a possible 2019 market release.
Why are we not surprised? It has long been rumored that there will be a 2017 introduction of the all-new Cayenne, along with some more information about the SUV’s diesel powertrains. During the debut, the 2018 Cayenne will be expected to unveil a single- or twin-turbocharged V-6 engines while a turbocharged V-8 engine will make rounds during the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Porsche will make use of Volkswagen’s highly-touted MLB platform for the 2018 Cayenne, which it will now be sharing with other VW Group products such as the 2017 Audi Q7, the Bentley Bentayga, and the 2018 Audi Q5. Luxury car Lamborghini Urus SUV is also expected to use the MLB architecture.
What’s good about the MLB platform? It offers lighter weight, improved fuel efficiency, and greater rigidity. Because of the architecture, the 2018 Cayenne is expected to shed off around 220 pounds in curb weight.
Though there are new information about the diesel powertrains that the Cayenne will come with, the development of these particular drivetrains might have to be delayed. We might not be able to see the option in the United States, but new regulations in the European market would demand for its launch. But since Volkswagen is still dealing with governments and regulators regarding the diesel scandal, Porsche would have to backtrack a bit and push the introduction of the diesel powertrain to the future.
The skyrocketing fuel prices in Europe will, of course, push Porsche to hasten the release of their vehicles’ diesel options. A Porsche source said there’s no way the Europe market would switch to gasoline cars.
In the United States, Porsche is expected to release the 2018 Cayenne S E-Hybrid, which will be able to produce 680 horsepower.
2017 Volkswagen Tiguan Drops Entry-Level Price To $22,860
Since Volkswagen released its premium crossover called the Tiguan, many have criticized it because it’s prices higher than most of its competitors and contemporaries. The German automaker announced, however, that a Limited model of the Volkswagen Tiguan will be selling for $22,860.
The Limited model is based on the previous-generation Tiguan, but will sell alongside the 2018 Tiguan that uses the MQB architecture. The 2017 Tiguan S, which was the base model, has a starting selling price of $25,860 while the new 2018 Tiguan has an even higher price tag of $26,245.
Though the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan Limited has very basic features, it more than make up for the lower price. The 2017 Tiguan Limited model has 16-inch steel wheels, halogen headlights, 5-inch touchscreen display, rearview camera, Bluetooth, and cloth seats.
If you are not contented with these, you can upgrade it with a Premium package for $1,295. They’ll get a 6.33-inch touchscreen, VW Car-Net connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an HD radio. It also has leather steering wheel, keyless access with push-button start, roof rails, and cruise control.
Do you want a 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels? That would cost $495 more.
There is enough power to entice buyers to shell out their money for the 2017 Tiguan Limited. Power is sourced from a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine that can produce 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. All the models will be paired with a six-speed transmission (the 2018 model offers an eight-speed transmission).
You should be happy to know that this new-ish model grew 10.6 inches in length and 7.3 inches in wheelbase, meaning an increased cargo space and second-row legroom. The 2018 model is much better with an improved cargo space, thanks to a third-row level.
Finishing these all up is the choice of either a front- or an all-wheel drive. This model, an alternative to the pricier Tiguan variant, will arrive soon in dealerships.
Battle Of The SUVs: Mercedes-Benz Versus Land Rover Range Rover Supercharged SUV
There’s nothing more experts, analysts, and fans enjoy than a good old competition between the best of the best, or so we believe. German car Mercedes-Benz and British brand Land Rover have always made their marks in terms of luxury, functionality, and even performance.
For many car experts, the Land Rover Range Rover remains to be the world’s best luxury off-road utility vehicle. While there is a strong argument for that, some would say that the Mercedes-Benz is a more desirable four-wheel-drive off-road vehicle. Obviously, there are both truths to these claims based on Autoblog.
Interior
The argument goes like this: For Mercedes-Benz fans, there’s nothing like staying inside the German automaker’s luxurious SUV, where drivers and passengers will usually spend their time in. There’s a point in that, of course, as no one would stand outside an SUV ogling at it for hours in a day.
That’s pretty much a reality because everyone knows that stepping into a contemporary Mercedes-Benz SUV is a “wow” moment. The interiors have always been posh, luxurious, and exclusive. Even Mercedes’ older SUVs have a special and upscale experience, despite the fact that luxury features of yesterday cannot compare to what they are today.
Reliability and Dependability
Based on the latest Vehicle Dependability Study, which rates vehicles after they have reached three years of use, Land Rover is “average” in terms of reliability. On the other hand, the Consumer Reports and others indicate that Mercedes-Benz owners are rated second for the most-expensive repair bills on average. It sits behind BMW. Again, Land Rover was average in terms of repair needs.
Range Rover issues such as check engine lights, air suspension warnings, and the like appear randomly. In time, these issues go away on their own without the owners having to bring the Range Rover to their service centers or to a local mechanic. Mercedes, on the other hand, has to be brought to a mechanic as soon as an issue crops up. Owners also have to prepare for a massive repair bill.
8 Things You Can Expect From The 2019 Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is looking to claim the best-selling crossover for the Japanese brand. It has surpassed Camry in sales during the first half of 2017, so we are looking forward to what it has in store when the upgraded 2019 Toyota RAV4 finally arrives.
1. More Powerful
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 is going to be powered by a four-cylinder engine though without a turbocharger. The current RAV4 can produce 176 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque, and it is fitted with an eight-speed transmission.
2. Another Hybrid
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid will be coming back to compete with the Rogue hybrid and the introduction of the CR-V Hybrid that will be arriving in US shores soon.
3. Fuel Efficient
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 promises to be more economical in terms of its use of fuel. Currently, the 2017 RAV4 is EPA-rated at 23/29-30 mpg city/highway with front-wheel drive and 22/28 mpg with all-wheel drive.
4. TRD Sport Variant
The 2018 Toyota RAV4 Adventure introduced a Top Prep package that featured few visual upgrades, making the RAV4 Adventure different from the usual RAV4 though not that much. Toyota is trying to increase the reach of its TRD sub-brand, so we might be seeing a RAV4 TRD Sport trim or another RAV4 Adventure model.
5. Roomy Interior
You will be surprised at how much space the new RAV4 can offer you. It has one of the roomiest interiors ever seen in a crossover, though the RAV4 will begin switching to a new TNGA architecture.
6. Platinum Models
For those who want the Platinum trim, you can expect a premium experience with its rear-seat vents, panoramic glass roof, a color head-up display, and rear cross-traffic braking.
7. Driving Experience is Better
This new midsize sedan was much more improved in terms of driving and handling experience. The competition remains to be the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V.
8. No RAV4 Two-Door
There’s no way the RAV4 would have a two-door version again because Toyota doesn’t look like it would sacrifice the spaciousness we’ve come to love with the RAV4.
BMW X2 Crossover Spy Photos Released
Apparently, BMW is not yet done with crossovers. We have seen what they did with the X4, the X6, the X3, the X5, and even the X1. While some of us loved the lineup of crossovers from the German automaker, others felt that the brand was trying too hard to compete with US and Japanese manufacturers.
Then, came the BMW X2 crossover. BMW released spy photos of the X2 Crossover in camouflage. Remember this was previewed as a concept during last year’s Paris Auto Show? Back then, there was no excitement surrounding its design, which was actually seen as the more stylish version of the X1.
The BMW X2 was made essentially to provide the same functionality as the X4 and the X6, though the latest BMW crossover exchanged the X4’s and X6’s fastback shape for a more traditional roofline. This significantly ups the X2’s design and style. It also has a lower height and higher window line, allowing the X2 to have a more proportioned and sportier body style than the X1.
To prove its more aggressive aesthetic, the X2 will also have an angry-looking pair of headlights and BMW’s ever-popular kidney grille.
Similar to the X1, the X2 will also use BMW’s front-wheel-drive-based UKL platform. Majority of BMW’s global market will get a front-wheel-drive X2, but the United States may actually expect an all-wheel-drive for its market.
As for the power, BMW will be using a B46 turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine with an output from X1’s 228 horsepower. If you are looking for more power, the X2 might also offer an M Performance variant, which will add power, torque, and even better handling and driving experience.
We don’t have any details yet on when BMW plans to unveil the X2, but you might be able to see it before the year ends. Maybe the Frankfurt auto show in September is a good event to launch it? Sales and distribution should begin by 2018.
