Car Reviews: November 2016

Friday 25 November 2016

The BMW i8 Can Now Truly Be Called a Halo Car

The BMW i8 Can Now Truly Be Called a Halo Car
All-New Ford Fiesta to be Revealed Next Week
Top 10 Countries with the Deadliest Roads
Gallery: 34 Stunning Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Photos from Laguna Seca

The BMW i8 Can Now Truly Be Called a Halo Car

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When it hit the market, the BMW i8 was lauded for its awesome looks. A few years later, the i8's futuristic power trains and construction have made it into modern BMWs.

It started back with the 7 Series, where BMW applied the lessons it learned in making the i8's (and i3's) carbon-fiber passenger cell to the large luxury sedan. At the time of its introduction, the latest generation 7 Series sports more more carbon fiber than in any mass-produced car to date. The creation of the i8 also contributed to the development of carbon fiber parts on M2, M3 and M4.

That's cool and all, but the 7 Series is expensive and made for a kind of exclusive crowd, like the i8, while the M vehicles are easily described as niche vehicles, catering to an enthusiast crowd. A true halo car represents what's coming from an automaker in the future. It should excite potential customers and give them a peek into what the future holds, like a real-life concept car.

With the recently revealed iPerformance brand, BMW is taking another lesson learned from the i8 into mainstream vehicles: hybrid powertrains. The iPerformance lineup in the US includes three cars: the 330e, the 740e xDrive and the X5 xDrive40e. All models use a hybrid powertrain comprised of a turbocharged four-cylinder and an electric motor.

Talking to Jose Guerrero, Product Manager for BMW i and BMW M, he explained that the main focus for BMW is to not let the new hybrid vehicles feel like something boring to drive, like a Toyota Prius. To do that, they looked to the exhilarating BMW i8, a car that is commonly described as a blast to drive, despite its relatively low power numbers (357 hp.) The fun-to-drive nature comes through an e-Boost feature that uses the electric motors to provide extra acceleration. At the same time the iPerformance cars are extremely fuel friendly. The 330e earns 71 MPGe, the 740e xDrive gets 64 MPGe and the X5 xDrive40e earns 56 MPGe. All BMW iPerformance cars can be plugged in, and are capable of going 14 miles on a single charge.

When the onboard battery is depleted, the car acts like a normal hybrid BMW, with low fuel consumption. Without a charge, the 330e earns 30 MPG combined, the 740e xDrive earns 27 MPG combined and the X5 eDrive40e gets 24 MPG combined.

Finally,Guerrero explained that the i8 actually has an impact on other BMW Group vehicles, pointing out the newly revealed MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is practically a backwards i8. The new MINI uses a turbocharged three-cylinder engine to power the front axle and an electric motor to power the rear axle. Like the rest of the hybrids mentioned, it can be plugged in and is capable of getting 24 miles on a charge.

In a way, the i8 gave birth to a whole range of new BMWs (and even a MINI), be it exciting sports cars, extremely advanced executive limos, and mass market hybrid offerings. If there was any doubt before, it's truly become a halo car for the automaker and will continue to preview future products from the brand.

All-New Ford Fiesta to be Revealed Next Week

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Ford plans to roll out a next-generation Ford Fiesta this week on Tuesday, Nov.29.

The company will reveal the new subcompact car at an event in Germany this week while the car is expected to land in North American dealerships in 2018. "The new Fiesta will be our best expression of Ford — lovable fun, sporty to drive and with an unmatched personality true to the spirit of the iconic small car that has delighted generations of customers for the past 40 years," said Jim Farley, president of Ford of Europe.

The new Fiesta is expected to be more upscale with a number of new safety features and larger displays inside. In Europe, Ford may even offer a luxury Vignale trim of the Fiesta.

Though it will stay on the same platform, the Fiesta is also expected to grow slightly in size, leaving space for a larger Ka+ model.

Previous spy photos also show new styling thanks to a fresh front fascia and new headlights.

Ford currently builds the Fiesta in Germany, Mexico, Thailand, Vietnam, Venezuela, Taiwan and India. For the U.S., the Fiesta will continue to be built in Cuautitlan, Mexico.

[Source: Automotive News]

Discuss this story at our Ford Forum

Top 10 Countries with the Deadliest Roads

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Around the world, at least one person is killed on the roads every 30 seconds, and for every death, another 20 people are injured.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 752 pedestrians are killed on the road every day, and 786 motorcyclists lose their lives in accidents every day globally.

Statistics from the World Bank group, Transportation for Development reveal that less developed countries have a higher number of road deaths. Transportation for Development attributes the higher number of road fatalities largely to poor infrastructure, poor vehicle safety standards and inadequate driving laws.

Here's a list of the world's 10 most dangerous countries to drive in based on the WHO's Global Status Report on Road Safety 2015 interactive map.

10. Mozambique

The southeastern African nation of Mozambique has the tenth deadliest roads in the world. The WHO reports that for every hundred thousand inhabitants, an average of 31.6 die on the roads every year. Throughout 2015, 8,173 total road deaths occurred throughout Mozambique.

9. Rwanda

The east African nation of Rwanda has the ninth deadliest roads in the world. The WHO reports an estimated 32.1 road fatalities per hundred thousand people, with 3,782 total road deaths occurring in 2015.

8. Iran

Iran has the eighth deadliest roads in the world, with the WHO reporting 32.1 people die on the roads for every hundred thousand inhabitants. Throughout 2015, the WHO reported 24,896 total road deaths across Iran.

7. Central African Republic

The Central African Republic takes the No. 7 spot with the WHO reporting 32.4 road deaths per hundred thousand inhabitants. The WHO reported 1,495 total road deaths for 2015.

6. United Republic of Tanzania

The United Republic of Tanzania has the sixth deadliest roads in the world. The WHO reports an estimated 32.9 people are killed on the roads per hundred thousand inhabitants, and that 16,211 total road deaths occurred throughout 2015.

5. Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo takes the N0. 5 spot on the list, with WHO estimates reporting 33.2 road deaths per hundred thousand inhabitants. For 2015, the WHO reported 22,419 deaths across the country.

4. Liberia

The west African country Liberia has the world's fourth deadliest roads. The WHO estimates that for every hundred thousand inhabitants, 33.7 people are killed on the roads. The WHO also reported that in 2015, there were 1,448 total road deaths in Liberia.

3. Malawi

The southeast African nation of Malawi lands itself in the No. 3 spot, with the WHO reporting 35 deaths per hundred thousand people. Throughout 2015, the WHO estimates there were 5,732 total road deaths across the country.

4. Thailand

Thailand takes the No. 2 spot as as the country with the second most deadliest roads in the world and the only Asian country in the top 10. WHO reports 36.2 road deaths per hundred thousand people, and a whopping 24,237 total road deaths throughout 2015. The WHO report deems Thailand's drunk driving laws, speed limits, child seat laws and seatbelt laws inadequate.

1. Libya

The north African country Libya has the deadliest roads in the world, by a wide margin. WHO estimates that 73.4 people are killed on the roads per hundred thousand inhabitants, and that there were 4,554 total road deaths in Libya throughout 2015. The WHO deems Libya's drunk driving laws, speed limits, child seat laws, and helmet laws all inadequate.

Gallery: 34 Stunning Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Photos from Laguna Seca

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Undoubtedly the sexiest Miata ever.

Recently a few members of our team traveled to cover the Miatas at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca event and had a unique opportunity.

While no one outside of Mazda is allowed to drive the new Miata RF, yet, we did get to spend some quality time, after hours, on the sweeping corners of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with the new hard-top roadster.

Camera in hand, this is the result.

Thursday 24 November 2016

The Most Loved SUVs and Trucks in America for 2016

The Most Loved SUVs and Trucks in America for 2016
Hotter Porsche 718 Boxster, Cayman GTS Models Coming Soon
Facelifted 2019 Mercedes C-Class Spotted
The Most Advanced Power Wheels Ever has Arrived
Help Make this Epic Jeep LEGO Project a Reality
Giving Thanks to the Automakers

The Most Loved SUVs and Trucks in America for 2016

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The SUV and pickup truck markets are booming in the U.S. and some owners love their vehicles more than others.

Based on results from the New Vehicle Experience Study that surveyed 38,763 new vehicle buyers after the first 90 days of ownership, Strategic Vision's Consumer Love Index (CLI) measures the amount of love owners experience with their new vehicle. Strategic Vision compiles the data from over 120 different aspects of the ownership experience, ranging from interior door handles to tail light design and performance. Each aspect is rated on a scale from "1 – I Hate It" to "7 – I Love It," with "4 – Satisfactory" being at the middle of the scale.

Along with releasing a list of the most loved cars in the U.S., The 2016 CLI also reveals the most loved SUVs and pickup trucks, which you can see below.

Standard Pickup – Toyota Tacoma

In the Standard Pickup category, the Toyota Tacoma was most loved with a score of 353. The Japanese automaker recently revamped the pickup for the 2016 model year as it faces stiffer competition from its American counterparts.

Full-Size Pickup – Ford F-150

There's a reason the Ford F-150 is the best-selling vehicle in North American history: Their owners absolutely love them. With a score of 429, the Ford F-150 is the most loved full-size pickup.

Heavy Duty Pickup – Nissan Titan XD

It's not the Ford Super Duty or the Ram 2500/3500 that is the most loved Heavy Duty Pickup. That honor goes to the Nissan Titan XD, which recently saw an all-new model hit the market. With a score of 462, something tells us the Titan XD will continue being America's most loved Heavy Duty Pickup.

Entry SUV – Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

For decades, the Jeep brand has been synonymous with performance off-road SUVs. They're also loved by their owners no matter what they're being used for. Taking the Entry SUV category is the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with a score of 427.

Entry CUV – Subaru Crosstrek

Crossovers are coming in all shapes and sizes, but the Subaru Crosstrek is the most loved model in the U.S. Sporting a score of 459, the Crosstrek adds to Subaru's list of five Most Loved Vehicle Awards.

Mid-Size SUV – Dodge Durango

Sales of the Dodge Durango have picked up in recent years and it seems there's a good reason for it. According to the 2016 LCI, owners love their Durango SUVs, helping it earn a score of 419 and taking the title of most loved Mid-Size SUV.

Mid-Size CUV – Kia Sorento

In the Mid-Size CUV category, the Kia Sorento is most loved with a score of 424. Like other models on the list, the Sorento recently got updated with a redesign, helping keep it fresh in a highly competitive segment.

Full-Size Utility – Chevrolet Tahoe

Although the Full-Size Utility segment is giving way to three-row crossovers, there's still a few models that are loved by their owners. The Chevrolet Tahoe takes the category with a score of 471.

Alternative Powertrain Utility – Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Driving a crossover, SUV or pickup truck doesn't mean you can't be green. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is the most loved Alternative Powertrain Utility vehicle, earning a score of 409.

Near-Luxury Utility – BMW X4

The BMW X4 is admittedly a strange model in the German automaker's crowded crossover and SUV lineup, but its owners are happy it exists. With a score of 481, the BMW X4 is the most loved Near-Luxury Utility in the U.S., although it's a bit unclear why BMW would be considered "near luxury."

Luxury SUV – Land Rover Range Rover

There are very few SUVs in this world as iconic as the Land Rover Range Rover, with its signature boxy styling existing even today. With a score of 460, the Range Rover takes the Luxury SUV category in this year's CLI.

Luxury CUV – Mercedes GLE-Class Coupe

It may have just arrived on the market, but owners are glad Mercedes-Benz has added the GLE-Class Coupe to its lineup. Designed to compete with the BMW X6, the GLE-Class Coupe took home the title of Most Loved Luxury CUV with a score of 546.

Minivan – Toyota Sienna

Yes, minivans still exist and believe it or not, some owners actually enjoy driving one around. They may be a dying breed thanks to less embarrassing crossovers, but the minivan still serves a purpose in today's automotive world. With a score of 349, the Toyota Sienna is the most loved Minivan around, but it's telling that it's also the lowest-scoring vehicle to win a category. So even though one minivan had to be the most loved, there really isn't a whole lot to love.

Discuss this story on our Mercedes-Benz Forum

Hotter Porsche 718 Boxster, Cayman GTS Models Coming Soon

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Porsche is getting ready to expand its 718 lineup with the addition of high-performance GTS models.

Our spy photographers caught the new 718 Boxster GTS out testing, sporting camouflage on the front bumper along with a new spoiler lip. As this will be a more hardcore performance version, you can expect the suspension to be stiffer and a lower ride for the car while unique wheels and a sports exhaust will really help the GTS stand out.

The same turbocharged four-cylinder engine is expected under the hood with a power bump somewhere north of 15 horsepower, the current differential when jumping from S up to the GTS model. That will put the new GTS somewhere around 375 horsepower. Both a PDK automatic and a manual transmission are expected to be offered.

When a revised GT4 model arrives based on the updated 718 Cayman and Boxster, it is expected to keep its naturally aspirated inline six-cylinder engine.

The Porsche 718 Cayman and Boxster GTS should hit the market in the second half of 2017.

Discuss this story at our Porsche Forum

Facelifted 2019 Mercedes C-Class Spotted

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Mercedes is out testing a new C-Class model with some modest changes.

This is the first set of photos showing the new C-Class, which will now begin its slow reveal in spy photos. With the S-Class, Mercedes slowly revealed more and more every time the prototype was driven in public.

For now, we can see both the sedan and wagon version of the updated C-Class driving with the front bumper covered, though revisions to the grille, headlights, taillights and rear fascia are all expected.

Inside, more camouflage was used to cover the changes, though the photographers were able to spot a new infotainment touchpad which will be under the dial in the center console. A digital gauge cluster, lifted from the new S-Class, is also seen on the inside.

Under the hood, Mercedes' new range of engines is expected to be found which use a single electric motor as the starter and to provide a slight performance boost. There will likely be a range of four- and six-cylinder engines available.

The C-Class update should arrive by 2019 and is likely to be revealed in late 2017 or early 2018.

The Most Advanced Power Wheels Ever has Arrived

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Ford and Fisher-Price have worked closely together to create the Power Wheels Smart Drive Mustang.

Fisher-Price developed the scaled-down Ford Mustang, which is available in blue or pink, based on real Ford design data. Sized just for kids, it's amazingly realistic and captures the spirit, style and high-tech features found in a Ford Mustang GT parents can drive.

New for Power Wheels vehicles is the Smart Drive system, which is essentially the brand's first computer-controlled powertrain that adds features like traction control, stability monitoring, digital speed control, battery monitoring, as well as slow start and stop.

The computer has the ability to monitor for wheel slip, adjusting motor speeds to help keep the car stable while going over wet grass or bumpy terrain. In addition, a tilt sensor can detect when the car is reaching dangerous angles, turning off the motors to prevent rollovers. Parents can also easily control top speed, which ranges fron 1 to 5 mph, as well as check battery charge level on a backlit LED touch interface.

There's even a built-in sound system that features engine sounds recorded from a real Mustang. Kids can play their own music on the biggest speaker ever installed on a Fisher-Price product through an auxiliary input jack.

The Power Wheels Smart Drive Mustang will be available at retailers starting in December with an MSRP of $359.99.

Discuss this story on our Ford Mustang Forum

Help Make this Epic Jeep LEGO Project a Reality

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If you have ever wanted a LEGO Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, there's a LEGO Ideas project for you to support.

Currently gathering support, this LEGO Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is a recreation of one of the most iconic off-road vehicles Jeep has ever offered. According to its creator, Chiho Kim, the most difficult part of creating the LEGO Jeep Wrangler Rubicon was joining the hood and the two mudguards. And although he's successfully managed to integrate them seamlessly, he believes there's better ways of joining those parts together.

The size of the Wrangler Rubicon is the same ratio as official LEGO packages like the Volkswagen Camper Van and Beetles, while boasting four 62 mm radius tires installed on the front and back, as well as a spare hung on the hatch doors. Little details on the project include a miniature DSLR camera in the set, as Kim says he likes to "go out for taking photos in nature." And of course, yellow cones are necessary items for emergency stops on and off the road, while a tidy net holds all the extra items in place.

Like all other LEGO Ideas projects, it will need your support to become a reality, so go vote if you want to get your hands on one yourself.

Discuss this story on our Jeep Forum

Giving Thanks to the Automakers

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It's that time again. Time to give our thanks to all the automotive manufacturers for yet another wild and crazy year.

Convertible Range Rovers, 8,200 rpm muscle cars and a further infestation of SUV coupes. Yup, this year has seen it all. We laughed, we cried, we sucked up all the dynamism, functiontainment and powerfficiency we can take.

But what really stood out? What grabbed our attention quicker than half price diecast models at a flea market? Let's break down what each manufacturer brought to the table this year, making us more grateful than retirees eating a 4 pm turkey dinner.

Whole. Lee. Crap. The NSX is actually here. At times, we weren't sure if it would ever come to fruition, but there it is.

Thank you for introducing a 505-hp car that no one will spell or pronounce properly. The Alfa Romeo, Google Quattocheese? Julia Gulia Quadrophenia? Whatever, that engine sounds badass.

Thanks for allowing every rich Trekky to own a Vulcan of their own.

Thank you for continuing to RS all things and for the completely all-new, radical styling departure on the Audi A4 and R8 (yes, that was sarcasm).

A hearty thank you for proving what the world really needs – a quarter-million dollar SUV that can run upwards of 187 mph. Next up should be the half-million dollar pickup truck that runs 10s in the quarter mile.

Thank you for the new king of the 2 Series. The one everyone can't wait for. The car that emulates BMWs of old. The all-new ~~2 Series Active Tourer~~ M2.

Buick's cars are *insert over used old person joke.* You know who likes to drive Buicks? *insert slight revision on above joke, ensuring punch line is still about old people* But seriously, the new Lacrosse looks great.

We love the ATS-V and the CTS-V and thank you for them. But there's been an oversight. Where's the supercharged 6.2-liter Escalade-V? You know you want to do it!

Thank you for the onslaught of new models this year; it's keeping us employed.

Thanks for making sure the minivan doesn't die out. And for doing something new by making a hybrid version available.

Thanks for bringing back the scat cars. Our 10-year-old maturity levels are working in overdrive.

Thanks for proving that a turbocharger does not ruin a Ferrari. Oh wait, you did that already in 1984 with the 208 Turbo and again in 1987 with the F40. Never mind then… keep up the good work!

A big thanks for answering enthusiasts' prayers the world over and putting a turbocharged engine into a Miata. Also, thanks for using a vehicle name that isn't "500-something-or-other" in North America.

Thank for the dozens of future YouTube fail videos of owners "drift-modding" their Focus RS into various road side objects. PS. The Ford GT is kinda cool too.

Thank you for building a small(ish) diesel pickup truck that Americans have been demanding for quite some time. Now, let's see if any of them actually buy it.

Thanks for keeping us entertained with the new Si and the upcoming Type R. We're hoping a Pilot Type R is on the way too!

Thanks for separating the Genesis into a new luxury brand. If Notorious B.I.G. was still alive today we're certain he'd change the line to "Super Nintendo, Hyundai Genesis, When I was dead broke, man I couldn't picture this."

Thank You for…no wait, where's our Eau Rouge already?!?

Thank you for the F-Pace, which could be the future Face of Jaguar. (see what we did there?)

Thank you for running with the marketing gold of using a hit song that happens to share its name with your latest vehicle model in all its ads. Now, could you talk to your Dodge cohorts across the hallway about Scatman John's 1994 hit?

Thanks for electrifying the soul of the, er, Soul. We got quite a charge out of driving it. It was shockingly good.

Thanks for making the mere two cars you produce seem like a dozen or so thanks to the multitude of special edition models upon special edition models. We may need a cheat sheet to tell them apart.

Thank you for giving all the children of rich Malibu parents something to drive to Rodeo drive on sunny days because OMG, the Evoque Convertible is totes cute!

Thank you for focusing this year on a core product with real-world, consumer relevant focus – the Hoverboard.

Whoa. New design language! We feel a bit déjà vu for some reason though…

Thanks for answering the question "Just how many different ways can you sell an Evora?"

Thank you for continuing to make an exhaust we want to marry and have children with as well as creating vehicle names no one can ever pronounce.

Thank you for bringing back a turbocharged engine. You know what sounds great? Having 301 lb-ft of torque in the CX-3. Make it happen.

Thanks for showing the world that British automotive engineering isn't dead and for making the affordable 570S. We're sure dads everywhere are lining up to trade in their Toyota Camrys.

Dear Lord, that AMG V8 exhaust note is magnificent. Wait, maybe this is the one we want to marry and have little babies with.

Thank you for introducing a new four-door MINI that isn't called the four-door MINI because the four-door MINI name was already taken by the four-door MINI which isn't the same as the new four-door MINI.

Thanks for refreshing the Mirage to look like it's from this millennium. And thank you for keeping the old stalwart Lancer alive and kicking.

Thanks for bucking the trend and flipping your middle finger at the new generation of lightweight pickup trucks. 7,000 lb. half tons FTW!

Thank you for adding turbocharged engines to the non-turbo 911s. And thanks for showing us just how out-of-shape we are with the Cayman GT4's non-adjustable carbon fiber seats.

Thanks for taking the torque wars to ridiculous levels as all those lifted 3500 Rams on 30-inch chrome wheels will need all 900 lb-ft. of torque.

Thank you for beginning development on a new SUV. You should be masters at this as your cars already weigh as much as an SUV.

Thank you for the memories. And thanks for all the fish.

Thanks for the new fortwo and finally putting the single-clutch semi-automatic transmission out of its misery.

Thanks for another year of sexy concepts. Could you please put one into production this time around without changing a thing?

Thanks for being the masters of the buzzword. Ludicrous mode and Falcon door sound like rejected Transformers, not features on high-priced electric vehicles.

A massive thanks for building a modern Back to the Future Tundra and for making Huey Lewis relevant again, if just for one day.

Thank you for creating the first major recall campaign that many owners want to voluntarily opt out of.

Thanks for the XC90 that proves an SUV can be both different and good. Now please continue with twin-charging all things.

Wednesday 23 November 2016

Bentley Bentayga Recalled Over Loose Fasteners

Bentley Bentayga Recalled Over Loose Fasteners
Top 10 Countries with the Safest Roads
No Really, THIS is the Fastest Lotus Exige Ever
BMW Planning Hotter M Models with CS Line
The Grand Tour is Off to a Hot Start, Trailer Released for Second Episode
Dieselgate’s Next Victim Could be Mercedes

Bentley Bentayga Recalled Over Loose Fasteners

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Bentley is recalling its new SUV model over an issue over loose fasteners.

Bentley will look at 88 Bentayga models, in which fasteners in the seat mechanism and instrument panel joints may not have been tightened properly. In an accident, this could lead to injuries as the seat or dashboard panels could come loose.

Bentley found the issue when reviewing data from the factory. Bentley dealers will inspect each one of the fasteners and tighten them as needed to correct the issue.

All of the affected vehicles are from the 2017 model year.

Discuss this story at our Luxury Lifestyle Forum

Top 10 Countries with the Safest Roads

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Across the world, someone is killed on the roads once every 30 seconds.

And for every death, there are at least 20 injuries every 30 seconds. According to statistics from the World Health Organization, pedestrians and drivers are much more likely to die on roads in poorer countries. Approximately 752 pedestrians die on the road every day, and 786 motorcyclists die every day in accidents globally.

The statistics from the World Bank group, Transportation for Development, are alarming. Less developed countries have a higher number of road fatalities, which is largely due to poor infrastructure, worse vehicle safety standards, and inadequate driving laws. The cheapest vehicles sold in first-world countries are also much safer than those sold in developing countries, due to varying safety standards.

Here's a list of the top 10 safest countries to drive in based on the WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety 2015 interactive map:

10. Norway

Norway is 10th on the list with 3.8 deaths per 100,000 people. According to the WHO estimates, there were 192 total road deaths in Norway throughout 2015. The WHO deems Norway's helmet laws inadequate, as well.

9. Spain

Spain lands in the No. 9 spot with 3.7 deaths per 100,000 people. The WHO estimates report 1,730 total road deaths in Spain throughout 2015. The WHO deems Spain's drunk driving laws inadequate, according to the report.

8. Singapore/Israel

Singapore and Israel tie for No. 8 on the list. Singapore estimates indicated 3.6 road deaths per 100,000 people, according to the WHO. Israel also reported 3.6 road deaths per 100,000 people. The report indicates 197 estimated total road deaths throughout 2015. The WHO report also deemed Singapore's drunk driving, speed, and child seat laws inadequate.

7. Maldives/Denmark

Denmark and The Republic of Maldives tie for rank No. 7 on the list. The WHO reports just 3.5 road deaths per 100,000 people for both Denmark and Maldives, with Denmark reportedly experiencing 196 total road deaths throughout 2015.

6. Netherlands

Netherlands takes the No. 5 spot with 3.4 deaths per 100,000 people. In 2015, WHO estimates show Netherlands had 574 road deaths.

5. Switzerland

Switzerland is fourth on the list with 3.3 vehicle deaths per 100,000 people. Switzerland had an estimated 269 total road deaths in 2015.

4. San Marino

The microstate of San Marino, located in Italy, takes the number four spot with only 3.2 road deaths per 100,000 people, and with just one total road death reported in 2015.

3. United Kingdom/Kiribati

There are two countries tied for third on the list. The more notable one being the United Kingdom, with 2.9 vehicle deaths per 100,000 people. It had an estimated 1,827 deaths total throughout 2015. The second country tied for third is the tiny island nation of Kiribati, which is also tied at 2.9 road deaths per 100,000 people, with just 3 total road deaths occurring throughout 2015

2. Sweden

Sweden is the second safest driving country in the world with a ratio of 2.8 deaths per 100,000 people. It had an estimated 272 total road deaths throughout 2015. According to the WHO, this is due to strict drunk driving laws and high vehicle safety standards.

1. Micronesia

According to the WHO report, the Federated States of Micronesia has the safest roads on the planet, with 1.9 road deaths per 100,000 people, and only 2 total road deaths throughout 2015.

To illustrate how different countries have varying safety standards, the below video shows how an American safety-certified compact car stacks up in a crash against a car that adheres to Mexican standards.

No Really, THIS is the Fastest Lotus Exige Ever

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Lotus has unveiled yet another model not heading to the U.S.

The latest introduction is the Lotus Exige Sport 380, what the British automaker is calling a "supercar killer." It's also being touted as the most aggressive iteration yet for the Exige model, as well as being the fastest Exige ever with a zero-to-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. Continuing its obsession with putting its cars on a diet, Lotus has the Exige Sport 380 tipping the scales at 2,350 pounds (1,066 kilograms) dry, giving it a power-to-weight ratio of 352 horsepower per ton, with its 3.5-liter supercharged V6 providing 375 hp and 302 pound-feet of torque.

The sports car is available with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, but it's not heading to North America, like many of the recent Lotus models that the company claims to be lighter and faster.

There are plenty of aerodynamic upgrades as well, like a revised front access panel that modifies the air flow exiting the car's horizontally mounted radiators. Helping reduce pressure under the vehicle is a carbon front spoiler and rubber lip spoiler combined with the carbon barge boards. Downforce sees a 60-percent increase over the Exige Sport 350 thanks to twin pairs of front canard wings, a carbon rear wing and air blades behind the rear wheels.

"We've saved something special for our last new car of 2016. We have built upon the foundations of the excellent Exige Sport 350 and developed a perfectly proportioned, intuitive and attainable supercar for real roads," said Lotus CEO Jean-Marc Gales. "The cut in weight is nothing short of drastic and, combined with the hike in power and its enhanced agility, we've created something exceptional – far greater than the sum of its parts. The Exige Sport 380 is so good, that it is no longer the best in class, it's now in a class of its own."

Discuss this story on our Lotus Forum

BMW Planning Hotter M Models with CS Line

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BMW has filed a number of new trademarks which point toward an entire lineup of new performance vehicles.

The German brand filed to protect M1 CS through M8 CS with the World Intellectual Property Organization, suggesting that an entire range of new 'CS' models are coming.

Spy photographers recently caught BMW testing two versions of its upcoming M4 model together, one of which appeared to be more hardcore, sporting a lip spoiler, more air intakes, unique wheels and a larger rear spoiler. There's a good chance that was the M4 CS model, which is likely to be a range of even hotter M cars in the same vein as the Mercedes-AMG S lineup.

Under the hood, the engines will likely be the same as the standard M models, though expect a small power bump. Some weight loss could also be part of the equation thanks to increased use of carbon fiber and other lightweight materials.

A hotter version of the M2 was also recently reported, though at the time the name was believed to be either M2 CSL or M2 GTS. Now it seems like it will actually be the new M2 CS model.

Finally, the new trademark filing lends credence to the theory that there will be a new BMW M8, which has yet to be confirmed by BMW. An upcoming 8-Series model, essentially a 7-Series coupe, has already been spied testing, but now we know that BMW might want to build an M8 CS.

Discuss this story on our BMW Forum

The Grand Tour is Off to a Hot Start, Trailer Released for Second Episode

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Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May have lived up to expectations.

Amazon has announced The Grand Tour has become the biggest show premiere ever on Amazon Prime Video, dethroning the previous No. 1 show, The Man in The High Castle. Although Amazon won't disclose just how many viewers The Grand Tour had, it did say "millions of Prime members" streamed the first episode in the U.S., U.K., Germany, Austria, and Japan over the opening weekend. In addition, on the day the show debuted, total new Prime membership signups exceeded all previous days, with the exception of Amazon's Prime Day.

The show has been well received by viewers, earning high ratings on websites like IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes. A new episode of The Grand Tour will air weekly over the next 11 weeks in the U.S., U.K., Germany, Austria, and Japan. The show will premiere worldwide for Amazon customers in over 200 countries and territories in December.

"The guys are back, doing what they do best – the chemistry between Jeremy, Richard and James is what makes The Grand Tour so entertaining," said Jeff Bezos, CEO of Amazon. "Their creativity, along with the amazing production quality and 4K HDR streaming, has Prime members responding in a big way. Kudos and congrats to the whole team."

Check out the trailer for the second episode here:

Dieselgate’s Next Victim Could be Mercedes

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Mercedes-Benz might be the next German automaker to stop offering diesel engines in the U.S.

Like BMW earlier this year, Mercedes is experiencing a delay in diesel certifications in the U.S. as a result of more rigorous testing procedures by the EPA following Volkswagen's diesel emissions scandal. Although the automaker is currently working to get certification on a limited number of diesel models, it may not endure the process again in the future. According to Matthias Luehrs, vice president of sales and product management for Mercedes-Benz Cars, the German automaker is conducting market research on U.S. diesel demand to help guide its direction.

"We have to look at that and see whether it makes sense to offer diesels in the future," he said during an interview at the 2016 L.A. Auto Show. "We have not come to a conclusion but we obviously always tend to develop cars and offer vehicles according to customers' demands."

He added that dropping diesel offerings in the U.S. altogether "is a theoretical option," adding that demand for diesels in North America has been low "and is still lowering" for cars and crossovers. As for the certifications, it is currently waiting for, the company is confident that in most of the cases it will be approved. Its current priority is receiving EPA certification for the GLS350d, which uses a V6 diesel engine. Mercedes is also seeking certification for at least four diesel models in the U.S., including the GLS, GLC, GLE and C-Class sedan.

[Source: Automotive News]

Discuss this story on our Mercedes-Benz Forum

Tuesday 22 November 2016

Older Kia Sportage Recalled for Possible Fire Risk

Older Kia Sportage Recalled for Possible Fire Risk
Don’t Expect to See a Mercedes Pickup in the US Anytime Soon
Toyota Sienna Recalled for Potentially Malfunctioning Doors
Average Age of Vehicles in the US Continues to Rise
Nissan Jumps on the Free Track Day Bandwagon
Top 10 Most Dangerous Cars in America

Older Kia Sportage Recalled for Possible Fire Risk

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The 2008-2009 Kia Sportage is being recalled to address an electrical issue.

The recall affects approximately 71,700 units in the U.S., and in the affected vehicles, improper sealing of a wire harness cover used for the hydraulic electronic control unit (HECU) can allow moisture to enter the module. If the water is contaminated with salt, it can result in an electrical short.

"If the HECU circuit board experiences a short circuit, a thermal event can result, including the possibility of an engine compartment fire," warned the recall. "However, the presence of salt water in the HECU does not affect brake performance."

SEE ALSO: 2017 Kia Sportage Review

The Korean automaker first identified the issue when it received a report of an engine fire involving a Kia Sportage parked in a driveway. After reviewing data from other "thermal events" the following month, Kia did a deeper investigation and eventually focused on the HECU.

To resolve the issue, Kia dealers will replace the connector and inspect the HECU assembly, replacing it if damage has already occurred. The recall should begin November 28, 2016.

Discuss this story on our Kia Forum

Don’t Expect to See a Mercedes Pickup in the US Anytime Soon

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The first-generation Mercedes X-Class pickup truck won't be available in the U.S.

Speaking at the 2016 L.A. Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz USA CEO Dietmar Exlar confirmed last week that the X-Class isn't heading to the U.S. market next year. He did, however, say that it's a possibility that the next-generation model could be offered. "Once the next version of the truck comes out – when we see the next iteration – there might be an opportunity to bring it in the medium and the long-term," he said.

For now, the Mercedes X-Class is expected to go on sale in other global markets in Europe, Latin America, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia starting next year. The concept was unveiled last month and the German automaker is still evaluating whether the U.S. market will eventually make sense.

"It's the biggest segment we're not in," Exler said. "It's overall an attractive, huge segment, but we need to make sure it's the right time for Mercedes."

Discuss this story on our Mercedes-Benz Forum

Toyota Sienna Recalled for Potentially Malfunctioning Doors

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Toyota is recalling its Swagger Wagon.

Approximately 744,000 model year 2011-2016 Toyota Sienna minivans are being recalled in the U.S. because under certain limited conditions, if the sliding door opening operation is impeded, the sliding door motor circuit could be overloaded, opening the fuse for the motor. If this condition occurs while the door latch is in an unlatched position, the door could open while driving, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant.

SEE ALSO: Toyota Sienna Review

The Japanese automaker is currently developing a remedy for the condition and all known owners of the affected vehicles will be notified by first class mail by mid-January.

Discuss this story on our Toyota Sienna Forum

Average Age of Vehicles in the US Continues to Rise

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Car owners in the U.S. continue to hold onto their vehicles.

According to IHS Markit, the average age of light vehicles in the U.S. is 11.6 years, based on a snapshot of vehicles in operation on January 1, 2016. Last year, the average age of vehicles in the U.S. was 11.5 years. In addition, registrations for light vehicles in operation hit a record 264 million, marking an increase of over 6.2 million, or 2.4 percent.

One reason for the rising average vehicle age over time is the quality of new vehicles, noted Mark Seng, global automotive aftermarket practice director at IHS Markit.

The company began tracking the average age of vehicles in 2002 and in the first year of data, the average age was 9.6 years. In addition to vehicles getting older, car owners are getting their vehicles longer with the average length of ownership hitting a record 79.3 months as of the end of 2015, up 1.5 months compared to the previous year. IHS also said consumers keep used vehicles for about 66 months.

[Source: Automotive News]

Nissan Jumps on the Free Track Day Bandwagon

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Nissan wants new GT-R owners to take advantage of their sports cars.

From now until March 31, 2017, all U.S. Nissan GT-R buyers will receive free one full day, on-track instruction at Virginia International Raceway (VIR). The promotion also applies to those that purchased their GT-R on or after November 14, 2016. Once break-in procedures are complete, owners will use their own vehicles to drive on one of five track configurations at VIR, with a top performance driving instructor helping advise on proper technique.

Best of all, owners can take part in the track day with their own car while retaining the full manufacturer's warranty.

SEE ALSO: 2017 Nissan GT-R Review

According to Nissan, the complimentary instruction and track time is a $2,000 value and once a GT-R owner takes delivery of their vehicle, they will receive instructions on how to reserve their free Nissan GT-R track day.

"The GT-R is one of the most iconic and impressive sports cars on the market today, but there are very few places to explore the vehicle's full potential in a safe, controlled and supervised situation," said Eric Ledieu, director, Sports Car Marketing, Nissan North America. "It made sense to link our owners with a track like Virginia International Raceway for a world-class driving experience in a responsible fashion."

Discuss this story on our Nissan GT-R Forum

Top 10 Most Dangerous Cars in America

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These days, most modern cars are extremely safe, but that wasn't a case a decade ago.

According to 24/7 Wall St., the average light vehicle on the road today was manufactured in 2003 or 2004, and to determine the most dangerous cars in America, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed crashworthiness evaluation results from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). To be considered one of the most dangerous cars in America, a vehicle had to receive either a marginal or poor rating in either the moderate overlap frontal crash test or the side crash test. In addition, a car needed to receive a poor rating in at least one of the other two categories: roof strength and head restraints and seats.

10. 2002-2005 Saturn L-Series

The 2002-2005 Saturn L-Series earned poor ratings on the side, head restraints and seat crashworthiness evaluations, making it one of the most dangerous cars in America today. The good news is, the Saturn brand no longer exists and production on the L-Series stopped many years ago. Built to compete with popular midsize sedans like the Honda Accord, the Saturn L-Series didn't fare well due to poor safety ratings and mechanical issues.

9. 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am

Based on data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Pontiac Grand Am had 160 driver deaths per million registered vehicles annually between 2002 and 2005, the most of any midsize coupe in the U.S. market at the time. The fifth-generation Pontiac Grand Am received poor ratings in the moderate overlap front, head restraints and seat tests, with the front impact test revealing a high likelihood of head injury for the driver in the event of a head-on collision. Like Saturn, the Pontiac brand has since been axed.

8. 2000-2006 Nissan Sentra

Before 2000, the Nissan Sentra was offered as a subcompact sedan, but the Japanese automaker decided it was time to move it up into the compact class for the 2000 model year makeover. The fifth-generation Sentra received poor ratings on its side, head restraints and seat tests and in a simulated broadside collision, the oncoming car made contact with the driver dummy's head. In addition, the passenger dummy's head smashed into the car window, indicating a high likelihood of head injury. Luckily, the latest-generation Sentra has improved drastically, earning IIHS's Top Safety Pick+ award.

7. 2000-2006 Mazda MPV

You probably won't see many Mazda MPV minivans on the roadways today, but it's still one of the most dangerous cars out there. It received poor ratings on the side, head restraints and seat tests, with the results indicating that in a side impact crash, there would be a high likelihood of rib fracture for the driver and pelvic injury for the passenger. The Mazda MPV is no longer in production, with the Japanese automaker replacing it with a lineup of crossovers and SUVs.

6. 2006-2009 Kia Rio

Nowadays, Kia is considered one of the most reliable and safest automakers available, but it wasn't even a decade ago that some of its vehicles were questionable in terms of quality and safety. The second-generation Kia Rio received poor ratings on the side, head restraint and seats tests with the first few model years of the second generation earning poor ratings for their headrests. The 2010-2011 models improved. Like other automakers, however, Kia invested into improving its safety with the third-generation Rio receiving high marks for safety.

5. 2001-2005 Kia Optima

Like the Rio, the older Optimas weren't as safe as they should have been. The sedan also did poorly on the side, head restraint and seat evaluations, receiving a poor rating for its side crash impact safety. The second-generation Optima improved a bit, receiving an acceptable rating in side impact crash safety, but those purchasing an Optima today have little to fear, as it is rated an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

4. 2006-2011 Hyundai Accent

Despite having fairly low safety scores, the third-generation Hyundai Accent was one of the best-selling subcompact cars during its production run. That means there's still quite a bit of them on roadways today, sporting poor ratings in the side, head restraint and seat tests. Crash tests of the 2007 Hyundai Accent revealed a high likelihood of pelvis injury for both the driver and passenger in the event of a side crash.

3. 2001-2006 GMC Sierra 1500

The sole pickup truck on the list, the GMC Sierra 1500 received a poor rating for its headrests and a marginal rating for its frontal crash impact safety. The American automaker has made vast improvements to the pickup truck since the 2001-2006 generation, with the 2016 Sierra 1500 extended cab earning good ratings in moderate frontal and side crash impact tests, as well as its roof strength and headrests.

2. 1996-2005 GMC Safari

Also known as the Chevrolet Astro, the GMC Safari received poor ratings on the moderate overlap front, head restraints and seat crashworthiness evaluations. The second-generation Safari was introduced with the 1996 model year and was discontinued after the 2005 model year. IIHS tests on the minivan indicated that a frontal collision would likely result in serious leg injuries for the driver. Despite its poor crash test ratings, the vehicle had the lowest driver death rate of any popular vehicle between 2002 and 2005.

1. 2000-2005 Dodge Neon

The most dangerous car in America today is the 2000-2005 Dodge Neon, which thankfully, has been discontinued. The second- and final-generation model had a better frontal crash rating than the first-generation Neon, but it still received a poor score for its side crash impact and headrest safety. Over 160 drivers of Neon sedans were killed per million registered vehicles annually between 2002 and 2005, one of the highest driver death rates of any car at the time.

[Source: 24/7 Wall St.]