Purpose

I will try my best to provide detailed info on various cars and what is like to live with them, I have already produced a few for Jaguar-car-forums, I will do my best to be unbiased, but it will be hard for some cars. I will re-produce press releases and copy from other motoring news.
Showing posts with label ex. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ex. Show all posts

Monday, 30 January 2017

USA - Kia Motors America has announced pricing and specification for the All-New Niro Crossover.

  • All-New Niro Crossover Offers Value, Utility and Exceptional Fuel Economy
  • Five different trim levels offer a Niro for every buyer
  • Crossover utility and hybrid efficiency at an affordable price
Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced pricing for the all-new 2017 Niro crossover hybrid.  When the Niro arrives in dealerships early in 2017 it will be offered in five trim levels – FE, LX, EX, Touring and a limited-production, Launch Edition. 
MSRP1 for the FE is just $22,8901 and the top-of-the-line Touring with its many luxury, infotainment and convenience features is $29,650.  Destination charges of $895 are not included in the MSRP.
“At Kia, we’re always striving to offer exciting new products that redefine their segments in all areas, including price,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president of product planning, KMA. 
 “The new Niro checks all the boxes – it provides crossover utility, good looks, outstanding fuel economy, it’s fun to drive and it’s affordable.”
The Niro FE, with a starting MSRP of $22,890 and 50-MPG (combined)2, is equipped with a long list of standard features, including: 16-inch wheels; 6-way front seats; power windows; keyless entry; cruise control; 7-inch touchscreen display with rearview camera; UVO3 with Apple CarPlayTM3, Android AutoTM4 and a six-speaker audio system with steering-wheel-mounted controls.
Moving up to the $23,200 LX trim adds Smart Key with push button start, roof rails and LED rear combination lamps.  
Among the extras added to EX $25,700 are heated combination cloth and leather seating, leather-wrapped steering wheel, LED daytime running lights, heated power folding mirrors, front fog lamps, and Blind Spot Detection (BSD) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Lane Change Assist (LCA) driver assistance features5.
The Launch Edition is available in Snow White Pearl or Aurora Black Pearl exterior colors and offers an exclusive look via the unique Hyper Gray 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin tires, unique metallic color grille, 10-way driver’s seat, 8-inch touchscreen navigation system, 8-speaker Harman Kardon®6 premium audio and is $28,000.
Touring trim $29,650 is equipped with an amazing array of additional features – power tilt/slide sunroof, front and rear park assist, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, 10-way power driver’s seat with memory and 8-speaker Harman Kardon® premium audio,
Three option packages are available.  Advanced Technology Package is offered on the LX at $1,450 and includes Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning System5.  Sunroof and Advanced Technology Package is offered on EX at $2,300 and includes power tilt/slide sunroof, Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning System5. The Advanced Technology Package $1,900 offered on Touring includes HID headlights, wireless phone charger and 110V inverter, Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning System5
* The Sorento and Optima GDI (EX, SX & Limited and certain LX Trims only) are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts
1 MSRP excludes destination and handling, taxes, title, license fees, options and retailer charges.  Actual prices set by retailer and may vary. $900 destination charges not included.
2 Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle’s condition. Niro EPA estimated MPG city/highway/combined FE 52/49/50, LX 51/46/49, EX 51/46/49, Touring Launch 46/40/43, Touring 46/40/43.
3 Apple®  and Apple CarPlay ™  are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.
4 Android™ and Android AutoTM are trademarks of Google, Inc.
5 These features are not substitutes for safe driving, and may not detect all objects surrounding vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
6 Harman Kardon is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Incorporated

Monday, 19 December 2016

The Kia Niro sets a new World Guinness record for MPG from LA to New York City.

Kia’s Newest Crossover Sets Lofty Mark of 76.6 mpg Driving Coast-to-Coast from Los Angeles to New York City
  • 3715.4 miles and only 4.1 tanks of gas
  • New kind of crossover boasts a number of firsts for Kia, including a new, dedicated eco-car platform and a unique hybrid system
Arriving at New York City Hall in downtown Manhattan, the 2017 Kia Niro officially received a Guinness World Record® title for the lowest fuel consumption driving across the USA from coast to coast (hybrid car).  The new record-setting mark is an incredible 76.6 mpg.

“We’re extremely pleased with the Niro’s record-breaking performance,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning KMA. “We set out to build a vehicle that offers real-world utility, great looks and fantastic mileage, and setting the Guinness World Record® title confirms our achievement.”


The Niro EX was driven by Wayne Gerdes of Carlsbad, California, and co-driver Robert Winger of Williamsburg, Virginia, 3,715.4 miles from Los Angeles City Hall to New York City Hall using only 48.5 gallons or 4.1 tanks of gas. The vehicle was not altered in any way for the attempt.

The Niro, an Urban Crossover Hybrid Vehicle, is the first dedicated Kia hybrid and was conceived to bridge the gap between outstanding fuel economy and compact crossover usefulness. 

In addition to its athletic and attractive design, the Niro’s long list of features includes: a specially-designed, innovative hybrid system to provide a more dynamic and engaging driving experience; a spacious cabin with lots of room for five occupants and their gear; a full array of advanced driver assistance features —  available Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist and Lane Departure Warning1; and advanced telematics and entertainment equipment — UVO3 with Apple CarPlay™2, Android Auto™3 and a 7-inch touch screen and available Smart Cruise Control, navigation and a Harman Kardon®4 premium audio system.

The all-new 2017 Niro is set to arrive in Kia retailers in the first quarter of next year and will be available in five trim levels: FE, LX, EX, Touring and in a limited-quantity Launch Edition. The FE is EPA rated to achieve 52 mpg highway/49 mpg city/50 mpg combined, while the LX reaches 51/46/49 mpg and the Touring at 46/40/43 mpg.5

Friday, 9 December 2016

Ssangyong gives a free upgrade on various Tivoli and XLV models this winter.

  • Free 4x4 winter upgrade offer on diesel Tivoli and Tivoli XLV
  • Customer saving of £1,250
  • 4x4 delivers surefooted driving off-road and added safety in icy conditions
  • 1.6 litre turbo diesel engine, 6 speed manual or Aisin automatic
  • Prices from just £16,250
  • Class leading 5-year limitless mileage warranty
As the cold winter weather starts to bite, SsangYong is introducing a 4x4 winter upgrade offer on its 1.6 litre turbo diesel Tivoli SUV and extended bodied Tivoli XLV models.
The offer applies to current EX and ELX models, manual and automatic, and registered before 31st January 2017.

Comprehensively equipped, the Tivoli EX 4x4 features cruise control, smart steering (normal, comfort and sport modes), an RDS/Bluetooth radio and seven airbags, grey or beige leather upholstery, 18” alloy Spiral wheels, dual zone climate control, 7” touch screen smart audio system with rear view camera, heated front seats, front fog lights and a luggage load cover.
The top of the range ELX 4x4 adds the choice of manual and automatic transmission, and features Diamond cut alloy wheels, a smart instrument cluster, smart keyless starting, front & rear parking sensors, privacy glass, rear spoiler, automatic headlamps, rain sensing wipers, full TomTom navigation system with 7” touch screen, rear view camera, and the option of the styling pack and red leather pack with My Tivoli.
Sharing the same platform and 2,600mm wheelbase as the Tivoli, the Tivoli XLV SUV estate features a lengthened body from behind the C pillar, an increase of 238mm over the standard car, expanding the load capacity to a huge 720 cubic litres of space. 
Four-wheel drive performance
The SsangYong Tivoli 4x4 employs an intelligent and advanced all-wheel drive torque on demand system that senses the road surface and driving conditions, and distributes the power to the wheels that need it most.
Under normal driving conditions, 100 per cent of the engine’s torque is delivered to the front wheels so that the car runs with optimised fuel efficiency.  On icy or slippery roads or when driving on wet off-road conditions, power is distributed to both the front and rear wheels to ensure a safe, stable and dependable drive.  The technology operates to give a smooth and safe departure when driving away from a standstill on a steep slope, while a lock mode distributes power equally between the front and rear wheels at speeds below 25mph to optimise traction.
In conjunction with the standard electronic stability program (ESP) with hydraulic brake assist and 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS), the four-wheel drive system provides the best possible grip and control whatever the conditions.  Hill start assist (HSA) and active roll-over protection (ARP) also feature.
The Tivoli 4x4 also features multi-link rear suspension for a comfortable drive on the road, and increased wheel articulation for optimum grip off-road.

Wednesday, 19 October 2016

USA - America's best selling SUV gets more power, leading to class leading fuel efficiency.

  • America's Best-Selling SUV gains more powerful turbo engine offering class-leading fuel efficiency
  • Honda Sensing™ technology now standard on EX and higher trims
  • New Display Audio featuring Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto
  • More premium interior boasts larger cabin with best-in-class rear seat legroom and larger, more versatile cargo space
Honda has pulled the wraps off an all-new, fifth-generation CR-V, America's best-selling SUV over the past 20 years. 
The completely redesigned and reengineered 2017 CR-V, going on sale this winter, boasts bold new styling, a more premium interior, the model's first-ever turbocharged engine and a host of new features and technologies aimed at maintaining CR-V's status as the outright benchmark in the highly popular compact SUV segment. 
American car buyers have purchased nearly 4 million CR-Vs since its U.S. launch in 1997.
"The new Honda CR-V raises the bar in every imaginable way, delivering more performance, space and premium content together with higher fuel economy ratings and value than ever before," said Jeff Conrad, senior vice president and general manager of the Honda Division. 

"Customers are going to love what they see and what they experience behind the wheel of this new CR-V."
Bold and Sophisticated New Design

The new CR-V styling heads in a fresh new direction with an aggressive attitude, thanks to crisp and sharp front-end design elements, aggressive stylized headlights surrounded by a wing-shaped LED DRL array on all trims, and wide, muscular fenders. The long hood, longer wheelbase, short rear overhang and dual exhausts give the new CR-V a more sophisticated and athletic presence.

The CR-V's new windswept front end appearance includes signature Honda LED headlights (Touring trim), a Honda-first Automatic Shutter Grille System that lowers aerodynamic drag, uprated aluminum alloy wheel sizes to 17 or 18 inches on all trims and narrower A-pillars for improved visibility. Adding convenience is a Honda-first available Hands-Free Access Power Tailgate, which allows opening and closing the tailgate with a foot activated sensor under the rear of the vehicle. Available Auto High Beam with High Beam Support (HSS) headlights, chrome garnishes, rain-sensing windshield wipers, roof rails and numerous Genuine Honda Accessories also expand beauty, convenience and functionality.
New Powertrain and Chassis Technology

The 2017 CR-V in EX and higher trims will feature CR-V's first ever turbocharged engine, a more powerful and fuel-efficient 1.5-liter DOHC, direct-injected and turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder powerplant rated at 190 horsepower (SAE net) and delivering incredibly refined and responsive performance across the engine's full operating range. Combined with the CR-V's more aerodynamic body, the new turbocharged powerplant will garner the highest EPA fuel economy ratings in the compact SUV class. CR-V LX trims will be powered by a 2.4-liter DOHC, direct-injected i-VTECÔ engine, and both engines will be mated to a smooth shifting and sporty continuously variable transmission (CVT) with Honda G-Shift control logic. Detailed specifications, including EPA ratings, will be provided closer to launch.

The all-new body and chassis design in the 2017 CR-V provides more agile and confident handling, greater refinement, additional ground clearance and superior overall versatility. Its front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension utilize specially tuned low-friction dampers, with both FWD and AWD models including tubular front and solid rear stabilizer bars that promote quick turn-in and flatter cornering. Dual-pinion, variable ratio Electric Power Steering (EPS) also contributes to the CR-V's direct and satisfying steering feel.
More Premium, Spacious and Technologically Advanced Interior

The 2017 CR-V also raises the bar for interior refinement, utility and premium features in the compact SUV class. The more spacious cabin, with top-in-class interior space and the best rear seat legroom in its class, features upgraded materials throughout, including a new soft-touch instrument panel and more intricately stitched seats. A color TFT driver information interface (DII) center meter display adds to the handsome new design aesthetic.

The CR-V offers the latest in-vehicle connectivity and audio performance with a new generation of advanced technologies. Available features include a 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio interface with Android operating system that now features a physical volume knob as well as an available new Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ developed in cooperation with the experts at Garmin®. The CR-V's Display Audio system is compatible with the Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ platforms, giving customers seamless integration of key smartphone features and functions, including smartphone-powered GPS navigation and voice-controlled search capabilities.
Some of the key new comfort and convenience features available on the 2017 Honda CR-V include remote engine start, dual-zone climate controls, heated side mirrors, an Electric Parking Brake (EPB), rear USB charging ports, front passenger seat with 4-way power adjustment and driver's seat with 8-way power adjustment and 4-way power lumbar support and heated front and rear outboard seats.
Advanced Safety and Driver-Assistive Technology

The refreshed 2015 CR-V debuted the Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, helping it capture the 2015 Motor Trend Sport Utility of the Year honors. The 2017 CR-V further expands the application of Honda Sensing as standard equipment on EX and higher trims, expected to account for upwards of 75 percent of CR-V sales. 

Honda Sensing includes Collision Mitigation Braking (CMBS) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and pedestrian sensing capability, Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with low-speed follow and Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS). Additional new driver-assistive technologies include the available Blind Spot Information (BSI), Rear Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM) and Auto High Beam (HSS) headlights.
Utilizing Honda's next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, the 2017 CR-V targets the highest available collision safety ratings, including an NCAP 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), including a SUPERIOR rating for frontal crash prevention when equipped with Honda Sensing.
The 2017 Honda CR-V will be produced at three plants in North America – in East Liberty, Ohio; Alliston, Ontario, Canada; and, for the first time, in Greensburg, Indiana using domestic and globally sourced parts. Engines for the new CR-V will be manufactured in Anna, Ohio and in Alliston, Ontario, with the CVT being produced in Russells Point, Ohio. 
For More Information

Thursday, 13 October 2016

Ssangyong moves into Q4 with tempting offers on the Rexton and Korando Sports Utility Vehicles.

  • ‘3-2-1’ offers 3 years free servicing, 2 years’ additional roadside assistance & 1 year additional VED
  • A Korando EX for the same price as an SE from just £16,250
  • Free automatic transmission and metallic paint on the Rexton SE & EX 4x4
As the nights draw in and the heating goes on, SsangYong is announcing three tempting offers to warm its customers this autumn.
The ‘3-2-1’ offer provides three years free servicing, two years’ additional roadside assistance and one year additional VED (vehicle excise duty), no matter which car you purchase in October.  All SsangYong models already come with the most comprehensive five-year limitless mileage warranty.

Additionally, on its Italian designed Korean built Korando crossover, you can now step up to a two-wheel drive Korando EX but for the same price as an SE at £16,250, or with 4x4 from just £17,750.  This gives you ‘free’ heated front seats, rear privacy glass, auto dipping rear view mirror, automatic air conditioning, 7” touchscreen with rear view camera, rear parking sensors and 17” alloy wheels.
And on the rugged and highly capable Rexton 4x4, the SE & EX models now come equipped with free Mercedes-Benz automatic transmission and metallic paint from just £23,500.
“In addition to offering great value and extremely well equipped cars, we are always looking to go that extra mile to help reduce the cost of motoring for SsangYong owners,” said Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK.
“SsangYong is a real value-brand and we demonstrate that whenever possible.  Korean built and comprehensively equipped, affordable prices and with a warranty no other marque can match, we are confident that with such highly tempting offers as these you will be seeing many more SsangYong cars on our roads this winter.”

Saturday, 1 October 2016

USA - The British Built Civic Hatchback is arriving at US dealerships now, this is how to build a quality car boys :-)

  • New model continues rollout of the 10th-generation Civic lineup and introduces new Sport and Sport Touring trims
  • Hatchback provides appealing combination of sporty styling, efficiency, versatility and premium content
  • All trims powered by 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected turbo engine
Arriving in showrooms starting next Monday, the striking 2017 Civic Hatchback joins the 2016 Civic Sedan and Coupe as the third body style in the 10th-generation Civic lineup. 
Combining Euro-inspired styling and 5-door hatchback versatility with world-class driving dynamics and Honda direct-injected turbo engine technology, the Civic Hatchback is designed for buyers seeking an even more expressive, sporty and versatile Civic. 
The 2017 Civic Hatchback will begin to arrive at dealers Monday with a starting manufacturer's suggested retail price of $19,7001 for the LX with 6-speed manual transmission.

 Built on the same world-class platform as the Civic Sedan and Coupe, the 2017 Civic Hatchback offers an appealing combination of sporty styling, efficiency, interior utility and premium features. The Civic Hatchback is available in five trims: LX, Sport, EX, EX-L Navi and a new line-topping Sport Touring4 version. All models are equipped with a 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected and turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder engine with peak outputs of 174 horsepower2 in LX, EX and EX-L Navi trims, and 180 horsepower2 in the Sport and Sport Touring trims which feature a dual-outlet center-mounted exhaust and are designed to benefit from premium unleaded fuel.
Powertrain
The Civic Hatchback's turbocharged engine can be mated to either a sporty CVT (all trims) or a quick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission (LX and Sport trims) and boasts class-leading EPA fuel economy ratings of 31/40/34 mpg2 (city/highway/combined; LX, EX & EX-L Navi w/ CVT).

Working in concert with the Honda turbocharged powertrain is the Civic's more rigid and lightweight body and sophisticated chassis design, featuring a fully independent suspension system with liquid-filled bushings, sport-tuned electronic power steering (EPS) with variable gear ratio, and powerful 4-channel anti-lock disc brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Hill Start Assist. These systems synergize to endow the Civic Hatchback with nimble, sophisticated handling and a firm yet comfortable ride.
Powertrain Features
Feature
2017 Civic Hatchback
(LX, EX, EX-L Navi)
2017 Civic Hatchback
(Sport, Sport Touring4)
Engine Type
L-4 Turbocharged
Displacement (cc)
1496cc
Horsepower @ rpm
(SAE net)
174 @ 5,500 (6MT); 6,000 (CVT)
180 @ 5,500 (6MT); 6,000 (CVT)
Torque
(lb-ft. @ rpm SAE net)
167 @ 1,800-5,500 (6MT)
162 @ 1,700-5,500 (CVT)
177 @ 1,900-5,000 (6MT)
162 @ 1,700-5,500 (CVT)
Bore and Stroke (mm)
73 x 89.4
Compression Ratio
10.6:1
Fuel Injection
Direct
Valvetrain
16-Valve DOHC w/VTC
Drive-by-Wire Throttle System
Low-Inertia MONO Turbocharger
Intake/Exhaust Variable Cam Timing
Exhaust
Single Outlet
Dual Outlet
Transmission
6MT (LX);
CVT (LX, EX, EX-L Navi)
6MT (Sport);
CVT (Sport Touring)
Pricing and Fuel Economy
TRIM
TRANSMISSION
MSRP1
EPA Fuel Economy Ratings3
(city / highway/ combined) (anticipated)
LX
6MT
$19,700
30/39/33
LX
CVT
$20,500
31/40/34
Sport
6MT
$21,300
30/39/33
Sport
CVT
$22,100
30/36/32
EX
CVT
$22,800
31/40/34
EX-L Navi
CVT
$25,300
31/40/34
Sport Touring4
CVT
TBA4
30/36/32
Interior
The interior of the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback carries through on the modern, sophisticated and premium quality of the 10th-generation Civic lineup, with high-grade materials and finishes applied liberally throughout. In terms of packaging, the 2017 Civic Hatchback delivers class-leading volume and cargo capacity, including a roomy interior (97.2 cu. ft.), best-in-class rear seat legroom (36.0 inches) and the largest available cargo carrying capacity in the competitive set (25.7 cu. ft. with rear seats up; LX, EX, EX-L Navi).

Key available features include Honda Display Audio with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ (standard on EX and above trims), heated seats, power driver and front-passenger seats, remote engine start and more.
The Civic Hatchback's all-new Sport Touring4 grade features textured aluminum sport pedals, red-accented instrument illumination and a 540-Watt 12-speaker premium audio system, the most powerful ever offered in a Civic.
Interior Comfort & Convenience Features

Features
LX
Sport
EX
EX-L Navi
Sport Touring4
Single-Zone Automatic Climate Control System with Air Filtration



Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control System with Air Filtration


Push Button Start


Hill Start Assist
Power Windows with Auto-Up/Down Driver's and Front Passenger's Window
Power Door and Trunk Locks
Cruise Control
Tilt and Telescopic Steering Column
Multi-Functional Center Console Storage
Sliding Sunvisors
12-Volt Power Outlets
Front Center Console
Front Center Console
Front Center Console
Front Center Console
Front Center Console
Front Passenger's Seatback Pocket


Rear-Seat Heater Ducts
Rear Window Defroster with Timer
Cargo Light
Cargo Tie-Down Anchors (4 Total)
Cargo Area Bag Hooks
Illuminated Steering Wheel-Mounted Controls
Cruise / Audio / Phone/ Multi-Information Display
Cruise / Audio / Phone/ Multi-Information Display
Cruise / Audio / Phone/ Driver Information Interface
Cruise / Audio / Phone/ Driver Information Interface / Navi
Cruise / Audio / Phone/ Driver Information Interface / Navi
Floor Mats
Beverage Holders (Front Row/Rear Row)
Driver Preferences System


Driver's and Front Passenger's Vanity Mirrors
with illumination
with illumination
with illumination
Automatic-Dimming Rearview Mirror



Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel


Leather-Wrapped Shift Lever


Sport/Racing Pedals



White Ambient LED Lighting
60/40 Split-Folding Rear Seat
Adjustable Seat-Belt Anchors (Front Row)
Head Restraints at all Seating Positions
Driver's Seat with 8-Way Power Adjustment



Front Passenger's Seat with 4-Way Power Adjustment




Leather-Trimmed Interior



Heated Front Seats


Heated Outboard Rear Seat Cushions




Automatic Windshield Wipers




Safety and Driver Assistance Technologies
Available on LX, EX and EX-L Navi trims and standard on Sport Touring4 trim is the Honda Sensing™4 suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) integrated with CMBS, Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning integrated with RDM, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow and Auto High-Beam Headlights (HSS) – a Civic first.  

The Civic Hatchback has earned a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is anticipated to earn a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), when equipped with Honda Sensing.
Manufacturing
The 2017 Civic Hatchback was developed jointly by Honda R&D teams in Europe and Japan and is manufactured for the U.S. market exclusively by Honda of the UK Manufacturing in its Swindon, UK plant.