Car Reviews

Wednesday, 26 August 2015

Front Crash Prevention Systems Better Than Ever: IIHS

Front Crash Prevention Systems Better Than Ever: IIHS
Top 10 Best Mazdas of All Time
Honda Project 2&4 Concept Previews Track Day Special
Hyundai N Performance Brand to Launch With Wild New Concept Car
Jaguar F-Pace Confirmed for September Debut at Frankfurt
Ford Ranger Slated for Return to US in 2018

Front Crash Prevention Systems Better Than Ever: IIHS

Posted:

Vehicles that offer automatic braking are on the rise and the systems are better than ever according to a new study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The IIHS put 19 different new vehicles (photo from previous testing) with front-crash avoidance systems to the test and fourteen of the models were given a Superior rating, while the other five earned the title of Advanced. To get the Superior rating, vehicles must have an autobrake system that "can avoid a crash or substantially reduce speeds in both tests," while for Advanced, the vehicle must "have autobrake and avoid a crash or reduce speeds by at least 5 mph."

These systems work with a combination of lasers, radar or cameras, to detect objects in front of a vehicle. If a crash is deemed imminent, the vehicle will grab the brakes automatically to avoid a collision or at least mitigate the effect of the crash. A Basic rating is also handed out to vehicles that feature forward collision warning systems that do not effect the brakes.

The Superior rating was handed out to the 2016 Acura ILX, MDX, RDX and RLX; 2016 BMW X3; 2015 Chrysler 300 and its twin, the 2015 Dodge Charger; 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (both Collision Prevention Assist Plus and Pre-Safe Brake equipped versions), CLA (both Collision Prevention Assist Plus and Distronic Plus equipped versions) and E-Class; and the 2016 Mazda 6 and CX-5.

In the Advanced category, we have the 2016 Volkswagen Golf, Golf SportWagen, Jetta and 2015 Volkswagen Touareg. The BMW X3 is rated an Advanced with the camera-only system called City Braking Function, while adding the camera- and radar-based system bumps it up to Superior.

While most of these systems are available as options, Mercedes is the first automaker to offer a Superior rated system as standard equipment on its vehicles. That doesn't mean you need to buy a luxury car to get an advanced automatic braking system though, as the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Mazda6 and CX-5 are all moderately priced vehicles with Superior auto braking available.

This technology is on the rise too, with the IIHS saying that 27 percent of all vehicles available for 2015 offer some type of autonomous braking, doubling the amount available back in 2012. Forwrd collision warning, which does not automatically brake for you, is now available on over half of all vehicles available in 2015.

Loading, please wait...

Top 10 Best Mazdas of All Time

Posted:

It Just Feels Right; Passion for the Road; Get in. Be moved; Zoom-Zoom; Driving Matters.

These are the various slogans Mazda has used over the years to convey that the manufacturer's cars are fun to drive. Although not every vehicle to roll off a Mazda assembly line has been a joy to operate (I'm looking at you, first-generation Mazda MPV), the little automaker from Japan has had a disproportionate number of fun-to-drive vehicles in its lineup since Day One.

So what's the best of the best? Here is our Top 10 list of the best Mazdas ever made, and no, they are not all rotary-powered.

10. Mazda Carol (1962-1970)

Although the Mazda R360 was the company's first real production car, the four-seat P360 Carol is the one that really put Mazda on the map. Designed for the special Kei class of automobiles in Japan that enjoy tax and insurance benefits, the P360 Carol was small. It measured just 117.7-inches in length and weighed a mere 1,157 lbs. That allowed a tiny 358-cc four-cylinder engine to be shoved in the rear of the car.

Although the car looked fairly normal from the front, the rear window of the car was actually set at an inverted incline, giving it a very distinct profile. If a bit more power was needed, there was also the P600 Carol offered for a few years in the early 1960s.

9. Mazda B-Series Rotary Pickup (REPU)

In 1974, Mazda was rotary crazy and decided to install one of these engines into its B-Series pickup truck. Although the idea of a low-torque engine in a workhorse pickup truck may sound crazy, the REPU was intended to be more of a sport truck than a heavy lifter.

The 13B two-rotor engine was equipped in trucks featuring a few changes like an upgraded dash and wider fender flares. The easiest way to tell this truck apart from regular B-Series pickups was the not-so-subtle "Rotary Power" badging painted across the truck's tailgate.

8. Mazdaspeed6/Atenza

For two years in the mid-2000s, Mazda offered a special version of the company's mid-size sedan that was more than just a trim and paint upgrade. Called the Mazdaspeed6 in North America, the regular Mazda6 engines were ditched in favor for a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine making 274 hp.

But Mazda wasn't done there. Sending power to the ground was an all-wheel-drive system that could route up to 50 percent of the engine's torque to the rear wheels. Also included in the Mazdaspeed6 was a six-speed manual transmission and unique styling in the front and rear.

7. Mazda RX-3/Savanna

Based on the Mazda Grand Familia/808, the Savanna/RX-3 were sportier options that used rotary engines in place of the standard four-cylinder units. Available as a coupe, sedan or wagon, the RX-3 was smaller than the RX-2, but in some markets shared the RX-2's 12A two-rotor engine. Otherwise, it made due with the smaller 10A two-rotor engine.

Like almost every rotary-powered Mazda, the RX-3 was used extensively in racing and achieved a lot of success.

6. Mazda RX-8

What may well be the last of the rotary cars from Mazda, the RX-8 was a well-balanced dream. Introduced for the 2004 model year, the RX-8 came with a 1.3-liter two-rotor engine that was originally rated at 247 hp.

SEE ALSO: Top 10 Rotary Powered Vehicles

Unlike the Mazda RX-7 that it succeeded, the RX-8 did not feature a turbocharger but did come equipped with four seats. The RX-8 also had rear half doors that helped back passengers get in and out of the car.

But the real charm of the RX-8 was the way it drove. Capable of ripping to 9,000 rpm, combined with amazing steering and a well-balanced chassis, the RX-8 was incredible to drive down twisting mountain roads.

5. Mazda Eunos Cosmo

Introduced in 1990, the Eunos Cosmo was a luxurious grand touring flagship. Available only with a four-speed automatic transmission, the rear-drive 2+2 coupe could be had with a choice of turbocharged rotary engines.

Sitting at the top of the food chain was a 2.0-liter three-rotor engine that produced a healthy 300 hp and 297 lb-ft of torque. Just as impressive, the Eunos Cosmo could be had with GPS navigation and a color touchscreen interface … in 1990!

Fast, smooth and luxurious, the Cosmo's high price tag was only matched by its incredible thirst for fuel.

4. Mazda Autozam AZ-1

Kei cars are meant to be no-nonsense, practical commuter cars that help consumers in Japan avoid potential taxes and insurance premiums. But none of this mattered for Mazda when the brand introduced the Autozam AZ-1.

Actually built by Suzuki, the AZ-1 was a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive two-door coupe that was more sports car than commuter. Powered by a 63-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine, the AZ-1 only weighted 1,587 lbs. For a little more style, there was also a Mazdaspeed version of the car that added a limited slip differential, upgraded suspension and a more aerodynamic body kit.

The Autozam AZ-1 was like a baby Honda NSX for those who couldn't afford the Honda supercar.

3. Mazda Cosmo L10A/L10B

This is the car that started it all for Mazda when it comes to rotaries. After an extensive prototype testing period, production of the rear-wheel-drive coupe began in 1967. Initially, the car was powered by 1.0-liter two-rotor engine making 110 hp.

When the Series II version of the Cosmo came along, power increased to 128 hp. That may not sound like a lot, but the Cosmo Sport only weighed around 2,000 lbs. Like most Japanese sports cars of the time, the Cosmo featured a slippery shape, complete with aerodynamic headlights.

2. Mazda MX-5 Miata

What hasn't been said about the MX-5 Miata? Around since the 1990 model year, the MX-5 has become the best-selling roadster of all time and just entered its 26^th year of production. Spanning four generations, the MX-5 Miata has always been about open-air motoring that maximizes fun.

Get the Flash Player to see this player.

The formula has remained simple. A peppy four-cylinder engine sending power to the rear wheels in a lightweight, lightly sprung roadster body.

With countless special editions over the years, it's hard to pick a favorite model. But the Mazdaspeed MX-5, the only factory-equipped turbocharged model, holds a special place in many fans' hearts. The MX-5 has achieved iconic status the world over. The fact this car is only listed in the No. 2 position on the list will probably cause a lot of outcry.

1. Mazda RX-7

To be listed above the MX-5 Miata, a car needs to be truly special. The RX-7 was such a car. Introduced in 1978, the RX-7 enjoyed a 25-year production run, which is impressive enough for a sports car. But, the RX-7 spent all of those years equipped with an engine that defied conventional wisdom and the mainstream.

Using various renditions of the brand's rotary engine in either naturally aspirated or turbocharged form, the RX-7 didn't just survive as a sports car, it thrived. With a weight and balance advantage over many similarly powered competitors, the RX-7 was an amazing handling machine that could out run many more expensive machines on the racetrack.

Such is the legacy of the RX-7 that still to this day do rumors continue to pop up that Mazda will revive the nameplate sometime in the future.

Discuss this story on our Mazda Forum

Loading, please wait...

Honda Project 2&4 Concept Previews Track Day Special

Posted:

Honda is teasing a new track-ready concept that it will debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

The Honda Project 2&4 was the winner of an internal global design contest run by Honda, and represents Honda's new push to build more exciting cars.

The car features an open air cabin-less design which Honda says combines the "freedom of a motorcycle and the manoeuvrability of a car." It appears to be an open wheel single-seater with a mid-engine layout. Power will come from the same 999cc V4 engine that powers the new RC213V-S motorcycle, making 101 hp.

Whether or not this car will ever make it to production is unknown, though Honda is currently on a push to bring more performance to its lineup, so a limited production run it certainly not out of the question.

The Honda Project 2&4 will be revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Discuss this story at our Honda Forum

Loading, please wait...

Hyundai N Performance Brand to Launch With Wild New Concept Car

Posted:

Hyundai plans to launch its new N sub-brand of performance vehicles at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

The new push into the performance world will be lead by the unveiling of Hyundai's Vision Gran Turismo Concept, the latest in a long line of concept cars that will only be available in the popular Gran Turismo video game. Hyundai says that the wild looking concept car will be a teaser of what is to come from the N sub-brand.

Alongside the Vision GT Concept (teased above), Hyundai will also be showing off an early version of its upcoming World Rally Championship race car based on the i20, which it plans to compete with starting in the 2016 season.

Finally, Hyundai's RM15 Concept, which is a mid-engine Veloster with a 296 hp 2.0-liter turbo engine, will also be on display. Hyundai says that the concept is "undergoing further developments to apply high-performance technology to Hyundai Motor cars in many exciting ways."

Hyundai will debut all of these car at the Frankfurt Motor Show on Tuesday, September 15.

Discuss this story at our Hyundai Forum

Loading, please wait...

Jaguar F-Pace Confirmed for September Debut at Frankfurt

Posted:

The Jaguar F-Pace will officially be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Revealing some more details on the British automaker's new SUV, Jaguar promises that the F-Pace "will bring new levels of dynamic ability to the brand when it goes on sale in 2016, after debuting at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September."

Teased numerous times and even shown in concept form, the F-Pace is developed on Jaguar's Lightweight Aluminum Architecture and is designed to handle with precision and control without sacrificing ride comfort. Jaguar revealed that the F-Pace will have a sophisticated double wishbone front suspension while the rear is an Integral Link suspension.

Incorporating technology from the Jaguar F-Type, the new SUV features a similar electric power-assisted steering system that offers drivers greater feedback and control compared to a hydraulic system. It will also feature the same torque vectoring by braking technology that was first developed for the F-Type with a torque on-demand all-wheel-drive system.

"We haven't made any compromises or exceptions: the new F-Pace had to be a true Jaguar and had to deliver the dynamics DNA," said Mike Cross, chief engineer of vehicle integrity at Jaguar. "We've tested ride and handling to the limit, and the result is that the new F-Pace is as engaging and rewarding to drive as it is comfortable and quiet. As soon as you get into the vehicle you know immediately that it's a good place to be."

Discuss this story at our Jaguar F-Pace Forum

Loading, please wait...

Ford Ranger Slated for Return to US in 2018

Posted:

The Ford Ranger is being resurrected for the U.S. market according to a recent report.

According to sources familiar with Ford's plans, the American automaker has begun contract negotiations with the United Auto Workers that will bring production of the Ranger to a Michigan Assembly Plant in 2018. If everything gets approved, the Ford Ranger will replace production of both the Focus and C-Max, which will likely be heading to Mexico.

The Ford Ranger was the best-selling compact pickup truck in the U.S. from 1987 to 2004. Retail sales of the Ford Ranger were discontinued in the U.S. in 2011 while fleet sales lasted until the 2012 model year.

The compact pickup truck market has grown in recent years with the introduction of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. Currently, the Ranger is built in South Africa, Argentina, Thailand and Nigeria for 180 overseas markets. Ford hasn't been importing the Ranger due to the 25-percent tax on foreign-built pickups, better known as the "chicken tax."

[Source: Detroit News]

Discuss this story at our Ford Ranger Forum

Loading, please wait...

Tuesday, 25 August 2015

Is GM Readying its Own Hellcat Fighter?

Is GM Readying its Own Hellcat Fighter?
2016 BMW X1 Priced from $35,795
Next Nissan Z Rumored to be a Crossover
NHTSA Investigating Jeep Grand Cherokee for Roll Away Risk
Lexus Explains the Science Behind Its Hoverboard in Video
This Could be the Facelifted Honda CR-Z

Is GM Readying its Own Hellcat Fighter?

Posted:

GM could be bidding farewell to the Holden Commodore in style with a Hellcat fighter.

Rumor has it that Holden wants to go out with a bang, creating the most powerful muscle car ever in Australian history by fitting the 6.2-liter supercharged V8 from the discontinued Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 under the hood of its Commodore sedan. The Chevrolet LS9 V8 would be the engine of choice because it is similar in size to the LSA V8 from the Camaro that is currently used in the Gen-F GTS. Boasting 638 hp and 604 lb-ft of torque, the powerplant would easily be the most powerful engine ever sold in an Australian-made car. Adding even more appeal to the car, Holden could equip it with the same Brembo carbon ceramic brakes from the ZR1.

SEE ALSO: 2015 Chevrolet SS Review

If it does become a reality, expect it to be made in extremely limited quantities, considering GM probably doesn't have a whole lot of LS9 engines lying around. The big question is whether or not it'll make its way to America as a hotter Chevrolet SS variant, at which point it'll truly be a four-door Corvette.

[Source: Drive]

Discuss this story at our Chevrolet SS Forum

Loading, please wait...

2016 BMW X1 Priced from $35,795

Posted:

The 2016 BMW X1 will have a starting price of $35,795.

The German automaker has added the 2016 BMW X1 to its online configurator, revealing that the base model X1 xDrive28i will cost $3,945 more than the outgoing model. Part of that price increase can be attributed to the fact that the X1 is no longer available in rear-wheel drive and only comes equipped with BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive technology. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, giving it an estimated zero to 60 mph time of 6.3 seconds.

For the 2016 model year, it appears that the BMW X1 will only be offered in that trim for the U.S. market. The luxury crossover will come standard with 18-inch wheels, power front seats and a seven-speaker stereo system. According to the configurator, options include heated front seats for $500, a driver assistance package (parking assistant, park distance control and rearview camera) for $1,150, a Technology package (navigation, head-up display and enhanced USB and Bluetooth with smartphone integration) for $2,250 and a Premium package (panoramic sunroof, satellite radio, power-folding mirrors, lumbar support and LED headlights with cornering lights) for $3,250.

Opting for genuine leather in the interior will cost $1,450 additional while the company's SensaTec material is standard.

Discuss this story on our BMW Forum

Loading, please wait...

Next Nissan Z Rumored to be a Crossover

Posted:

The next-generation Nissan Z could be what no previous Z has been before: a crossover.

According to Autocar, the new Z will be a radical sports crossover and it'll debut in concept form at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show in September before arriving in showrooms by 2017.

The Japanese automaker has been mulling over what direction to take the Z, and has considered moving it down market to compete with the Scion FR-S with a more basic four-cylinder model, which was previewed by the iDx. But plans for the iDx have been axed and the company's chief creative officer, Shiro Nakamura, recently said in an interview that he feels the "Z needs more revolution than evolution," hinting that the model needs to take a new path.

If the Z does end up being a crossover, expect it to be similar in size to the current Juke though it'll be based on a platform from the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Under the hood, a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is likely to provide power. The platform is also capable of using hybrid powertrains.

It's worth noting that Nissan considers the Z a sub-brand and there's always the possibility it could spawn two different Z models, one as a traditional sports coupe and one as a crossover.

[Source: Autocar]

Discuss this story at our Nissan 370Z Forum

Loading, please wait...

NHTSA Investigating Jeep Grand Cherokee for Roll Away Risk

Posted:

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating about 408,000 Jeep Grand Cherokees over a concern the vehicle could roll away.

NHTSA has received 14 complaints alleging that model year 2014 and 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokees have rolled away after being parked. Five reports of collisions or injuries have been reported as a result of the issue, though the severity of the injuries was not made clear.

To change gears on the Grand Cherokee, you push the "shifter-paddle forward or backwards; the shifter does not move along a gate path as with conventional gear selectors," noted NHTSA. It seems the issue may be with people placing the car into reverse when thinking they were actually in park.

One complaint from Colorado says that the driver pushed the shift lever "clear forward till it stopped," to park the Grand Cherokee, which proceeded to roll backwards into the driver's house.

NHTSA will identify the scope, frequency and safety-related consequences of this issue and will decide if a recall is necessary.

Discuss this story at our Jeep Forum

Loading, please wait...

Lexus Explains the Science Behind Its Hoverboard in Video

Posted:

Lexus has released a new video which details exactly how its hoverboard works.

The hoverboard was created by a team of engineers from IFW Dresden and evico GmbH, both of which specialize in magnetic levitation technology. Once built, the board was ridden around a specially prepared skate park, even managing to complete a jump.

Inside the board, a superconducting material is kept at -197 degrees thanks to liquid nitrogen. The board is then placed above a track containing permanent magnets with the magnetic field from the track effectively frozen into the superconductors in the board.

For a more thorough explanation along with great visual aids, check out the video below.

Get the Flash Player to see this player.

Discuss this story at our Lexus F Forum

Loading, please wait...

This Could be the Facelifted Honda CR-Z

Posted:

Photos that are said to show the facelifted 2016 Honda CR-Z have hit the web.

A new CR-Z is due to arrive in 2018, but to keep the car current, Honda is giving it a facelift. The photos, which reportedly show the updated CR-Z for China, show a more aggressive front end, new headlights, new spoilers, a new rear bumper, new alloy wheels and an updated interior.

The updates on the inside are in line with most modern Honda interiors, as the car gets a new electronic parking brake, a new infotainment screen and a revised manual gear shifter.

SEE ALSO: 2018 Honda CR-Z Turbo Rumored

Until the car is fully revamped in 2018, powertain updates are not expected which means the CR-Z will continue to use a 130-hp 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a mild hybrid powertain. Manual equipped models put out 140 lb-ft of torque, while models with a CVT make only 127 lb-ft.

[Source: CarNewsChina]

Discuss this story at our Honda CR-Z Forum

Loading, please wait...

Sunday, 23 August 2015

Interest in Electrified Vehicles Has Changed Very Little Since 2013

Posted:

Interest in electrified vehicles hasn't changed all that much in the past few years, a new poll suggests.

According to a recent Harris Poll of 2,225 U.S. adults aged 18 and older, the number of people interested in purchasing an electrified vehicle has essentially stayed the same since 2013. Both the 2013 and 2015 polls found that 48 percent of American car owners would consider a traditional hybrid the next time they're looking for a new vehicle. Interest in plug-in hybrids and fully electric vehicles has gone up two percent to 29 percent and 21 percent, respectively. Additionally, interest in diesel has increased three percent to 19 percent, while 35 percent of vehicle owners would consider a smaller or gas powered vehicle to save on costs, down three percent.

The study also found that millennial drivers were more likely than their elder counterparts to consider a traditional hybrid, with 57 percent of those polled saying they'd consider one, versus 49 percent for Gen Xers, 43 percent of Baby Boomers and 38 percent of Matures. Interest for other electrified vehicles follows a consistent trend. In addition, men are more likely than women to consider an electric vehicle – 25 percent versus 17 percent. There's a real large gap when it comes to diesels, with 28 percent of men interested while only 11 percent of women said they would be.

Discuss this story at our Alternative Fuel Forum

Loading, please wait...

Saturday, 22 August 2015

Poll: BMW i8 or Audi R8?

Poll: BMW i8 or Audi R8?
2008 Honda Accord Probed by NHTSA Over Airbag Issue
Someone Already Drove the 2016 Chevy Volt. Here’s What They Thought
2017 Chevy Equinox Sheds Nose Camo in Spy Photos

Poll: BMW i8 or Audi R8?

Posted:

Eight is said to be a lucky number in some cultures. Here we have the Audi R8 and the BMW i8, two futuristic-looking, sexy sports cars that both hail from Germany.

But the cars take two very different approaches to performance. The R8 is powered by a beautiful sounding 4.2L V8 with 430 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the BMW i8 is a gas-electric hybrid, with a combined total system output of 357 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque.

The i8 is the new kid on the block, but even though the R8 has been around for nearly eight years, it is still hailed as one of the sexiest cars for sale right now. Both cars are over $100,000, both have head-turning looks and both have serious performance credentials.

Which sexy sports car would you rather have? Have your say in the poll below.

BUT FIRST: Compare the specs for these two cars side by side

The results of our last few polls were quite interesting as well. We asked if you'd rather have a Porsche 918 or a McLaren P1, and the 918 won. In the poll before that, we put a BMW M5 against a Cadillac CTS-V, and the Caddy took the win.

Loading, please wait...

2008 Honda Accord Probed by NHTSA Over Airbag Issue

Posted:

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is opening a new investigation looking into the 2008 Honda Accord.

NHTSA is looking at 348,000 Accord models over concerns that the airbags may not deploy in a crash due to a flaw. The association has received 19 complaints about the problem, including one that says that the airbag failed to deploy in a head-on collision.

Faulty airbag modules are to blame according to NHTSA, as they do not communicate the proper diagnostic trouble codes to mechanics. According to NHTSA, this "raises concern about the readiness of the entire supplemental restraints system."

Honda says that it is aware of the investigation and that it plans on cooperating with NHTSA as the review continues. The vehicles will be recalled if NHTSA deems it necessary.

[Source: Automotive News]

Discuss this story at our Honda Forum

Loading, please wait...

Someone Already Drove the 2016 Chevy Volt. Here’s What They Thought

Posted:

A senior user on AutoGuide.com's GM-Volt forum was one of the first people to get the chance to drive the 2016 Chevrolet Volt, and his initial impressions were positive.

Driven at GM's Canadian headquarters, user kickincanada, who owns a 2012 Volt, drove the premium trim level model. At the time, it was one of only six other new Volts in the country.

"The new 2016 Volt is clearly improved in almost every way," he said.

Here's what he had to say about driving dynamics:

"The first thing I noticed straight away was that the car had a tighter, quieter drive to it. The suspension is definitely better and overall a much more luxurious drive. In terms of acceleration, it definitely is quicker off the line in electric mode. But I can't say I noticed a significant overall difference between it and my own 2012 Volt… Overall though, better driving experience than the current Volt."

The first thing he thought when he got into the car, though, was how much it felt like the higher-end Cadillac ELR. He noted the Volt's new premium-looking interior and the better layout. "Everything is beautifully laid out, the interior materials are more upscale, and visibility is improved over GEN 1. The shape of the A frame pillars seem to be better positioned."

The forum user was also able to test out Apple Car Play, and said "the Apple integration with your existing iPhone is fantastic." See the source link below for more of the forum user's impressions of the regen mode and some of the other features offered.

Stay tuned for AutoGuide.com's full review of the 2016 Chevrolet Volt in the coming months.

[Source: GM-Volt Forum]

Loading, please wait...

2017 Chevy Equinox Sheds Nose Camo in Spy Photos

Posted:

The 2017 Chevy Equinox has already shed a little bit of camouflage, giving us a better look at the front grille.

Spy photographers caught the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox testing for the first time earlier this week and now we have a new set of photos showing the crossover without camo on its nose.

For the next-generation, Chevy is opting to downsize the Equinox, which will be built on the same platform as the Buick Envision. Although the redesigned Equinox was expected to debut sooner, it appears that General Motors is giving time for the Buick Envision to establish itself in the marketplace first, since it'll be arriving in dealerships late next year.

Taking a closer look at the Equinox's new headlights, they appear to be influenced by the new Cruze, while the horizontal slats found on the grille seems consistent with what's found on the Traverse crossover.

Our spy photographers also caught video footage of the 2017 Chevrolet Equinox testing, which you can watch below.

Get the Flash Player to see this player.

Discuss this story at our Chevrolet Forum

Loading, please wait...

Friday, 21 August 2015

2016 Toyota Prius Spied with Radical New Look

2016 Toyota Prius Spied with Radical New Look
2017 Kia Sportage Photos Leak
2016 Chevy Camaro Price: Starts at $26,695
Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang Production Begins
Top 10 Ways to Be a Better Track Driver
2017 Buick Regal Spy Photos Show New Hatchback Style

2016 Toyota Prius Spied with Radical New Look

Posted:

New spy photos have revealed the upcoming 2016 Toyota Prius.

Toyota's redesigned hybrid has all-new radical style for 2016, moving away from its boring image and closer to the new looks of the Toyota Mirai. While details on the car remain in the dark, the Prius is expected to be more powerful and fun to drive than previous models.

Fuel economy is rumored to be boosted up to about 54 MPG combined thanks in part to considerable weight loss. That is mostly due to the Prius' new platform, Toyota's TNGA modular architecture, which will eventually underpin many of the automaker's vehicles.

A previous set of interior spy photos revealed the car's new large touchscreen in the center stack along with a

The new 2016 Toyota Prius is expected to be officially unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in October of this year. It will probably make its US debut at the LA auto show one month later.

Discuss this story at our Toyota Prius forum

Loading, please wait...

2017 Kia Sportage Photos Leak

Posted:

Photos claiming to show the 2017 Kia Sportage have leaked online.

Courtesy of Korean blog Auto Tribune, the photos show a pretty radical redesign for the Kia crossover which falls in line with what we have seen already in teaser images. A new distinct look will help Kia distance itself from its corporate cousin, the Tucson.

Under the hood, the Tuscon's new turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is expected, hooked up to a dual-clutch transmission.

The new 2017 Kia Sportage is expected to be unveiled in Korea in the next few days, while its international debut is set for the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

[Source: Auto Tribune]

Discuss this story at our Kia Sportage Forum

Loading, please wait...

2016 Chevy Camaro Price: Starts at $26,695

Posted:

Some 2016 Chevy Camaro pricing details have been revealed.

At the bottom end, you'll pay $26,695 for a Camaro 1LT which comes with the new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 275 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque.

At the other end of the spectrum, buyers will have to drop $37,295 to get into a base Camaro SS which packs a 6.2-liter V8 putting out 455 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque. Sitting in the middle is a 3.6-liter V6 that makes 355 hp and 284 lb-ft of torque.

That makes GM's muscle car about $3,000 more expensive than a base Mustang V6 ($24,425), though its on par with a base model Dodge Challenger, which sells for around $27,000.

New standard features on the 2016 Camaro include MyLink infotainment with Apple CarPlay, OnStar 4G LTE, drive mode selector, remote start, keyless entry, auto climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, backup camera, capless fuel filler, power-adjustable front seats and new knee airbags.

Buyers of LT models can choose to add the RS package which comes with HID headlights, LED taillights, unique grille inserts and a rear spoiler.

Moving up to the 1SS model brings some performance upgrades, including upgraded cooling, Brembo brakes, Goodyear Eagle A1 Asymmetric 3 run-flat tires, active rev matching (manual models), limited slip differential (manual models only) and a configurable driver info screen.

Finally, the top-level 2SS comes with heated and ventilated front leather seats, wireless phone charging, interior color-spectrum lights, a head-up display, Bose premium audio system and a host of safety features like lane change alert and blind-spot monitoring.

Custom accessories are also available, including LED-illuminated Chevy Bowtie badges and smoked taillights.

Discuss this story at our 2016 Camaro Forum

Loading, please wait...

Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang Production Begins

Posted:

Ford's high-performance Shelby Mustang GT350 and GT350R have begun rolling off the production line.

Ford calls it the "most athletic Mustang ever," and the specs seem to backup that claim. The car comes packing a 5.2-liter flat-plane V8 that makes 526 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

To cut weight from the GT350R, Ford shed all of the unnecessary bits from this car like the air conditioning, stereo, trunk carpet and rear-view camera. Both versions of the car get a standard limited-slip differential which gets the power to the ground while MagneRide adaptive dampers and a fully revised suspension helps to carve corners.

Carbon fiber 19-inch wheels come standard on the GT350R, with all four wheels wrapped in near racing-slick Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires that are said to have been specially formulated for the Shelby GT350R.

The New Shelby GT350R Mustang will be a limited-production model with only 37 units planned for the 2015 model year, while the GT350 will see 100 unites produced for 2015.

Discuss this story at our Ford Mustang Forum

Loading, please wait...

Top 10 Ways to Be a Better Track Driver

Posted:

So, you've signed up to participate in an open track day or autocross event. First off, congratulations, but perhaps more importantly, are you ready?

Driving on a closed course is, obviously, completely different from plodding along on public roads that are all too frequently congested with commercial vans, the elderly and people trying to eat a breakfast burrito while driving … and reading their news feed.

If you've never ripped around a racetrack or competed in autocross, here are 10 tips to help make you a faster, and perhaps more importantly, safer driver:

10. Proper Posture

Starting things off, it's important to have proper posture. Make sure the driver's seat is adjusted correctly. You don't want to be leaning back like some sort of wannabe gangster. Instead, tuck your rump firmly into the bucket and make sure the backrest is fairly vertical so you can maximize your outward visibility. Also, ensure you can operate the pedals, with enough reach to fully depress the clutch (if applicable).

9. Hands at 9 and 3 o'clock

A lot of motorists think you're supposed to keep your grubby paws at the 10 and 2 o'clock positions. This may be OK while driving on the open road but if you're heading out on a track, you'll want to revise the timing of your hands. Putting them at 9 and 3 is better for two reasons. One, it gives you greater range of turning motion, and two, it's balanced. If your hands are at 10 and 2, this makes the steering wheel top-heavy; it'll tend to go farther left or right when you crank the tiller off-center. At 9 and 3, it's balanced.

8. Learn to Heel-and-Toe Shift (If Applicable)

Heel-and-toe downshifting is a critical skill to have if your car is equipped with a manual transmission. While slowing down before entering a corner, it's necessary to drop down a gear or three so you can power out of the turn. To achieve this, you brake in a straight line with the toes of your right foot, then hit the clutch pedal with your left. While doing all of this, rotate your right heel over to the accelerator pedal so you can raise the engine revs enough so that when you change gears and let the clutch out, the transition is smooth. There's a lot to do, but it's a rewarding thing to master.

7. Look Ahead … FAR Ahead

While driving at speed, it's critically important to look ahead, way ahead. Glancing at the tarmac a few feet in front of your car's front bumper may be satisfactory on the street, but it doesn't cut it while racing. You're moving faster, so you have to look further ahead. And the further ahead you look, the more prepared you will be and the smoother your driving will be. You have to look through the corner you're negotiating at the track ahead, using your peripheral vision and side windows as necessary. And keep in mind, the place you're looking is where the vehicle will tend to go, so avoid staring at spectators or the tire wall.

6. Brake Smoothly in a Straight Line

Before entering a corner, you generally need to slow down. Not surprisingly, there's a right way to decelerate and a wrong way. The wrong way is to stand on the brake pedal at the last possible second, causing the front of the car to dive with such ferocity that its bumper scrapes the pavement. This is a great way to upset the chassis, shifting the vehicle's weight forward; it's also ideal for cooking your pads and rotors in short order.

Balance and proper weight distribution are the keys to turning quickly and safely. Instead, what you want to do is brake in a straight line when you have maximum traction, gradually but firmly slowing down as you enter the turn. This keeps the vehicle on an even keel. In many situations, you want your deceleration to be finished before entering the turn, but more experienced drivers can do something known as "trail braking," which helps improve front-end grip.

5. Maintain Speed Through Corners

Some of the above-mentioned suggestions take practice to master, but this tip is easy. After you've slowed down and then entered a corner, transition your right foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator and apply a dab of throttle, just enough for you to maintain momentum through the turn. This keeps the chassis nicely balanced and prepares you to go wide-open once the nose is pointed straight ahead.

4. Apex Late

But before you can mash the gas, you've got to finish negotiating the turn, which means nailing the apex, the innermost point of a corner. Hitting this spot as late as possible is generally the fastest way through a turn because it gives you the straightest possible line, which maintains momentum. Keep in mind, this isn't necessarily the shortest distance through a corner, but it's the fastest and that's what matters.

3. Ease on the Throttle

After you've apexed, it's time to start accelerating again. As mentioned several times before, smoothness is key. You want to roll evenly on the throttle as you begin exiting a corner and unwinding the wheel. Doing so will not upset the car's balance. Please, resist the temptation to mash the gas!

2. Use the Entire Track

And while you're putting that corner in your rearview mirror, allow the car to drift wide as you exit; don't be afraid of the shoulder or rumble strips, you want to use as much of the track as possible. At speed, these extra few inches can save a lot of time by, again, giving you the straightest possible line through the turn and allowing you to maintain momentum.

1. Smoothness is Critical

In case you haven't picked up on it yet, the No. 1 tip for driving on a racetrack is the importance of being smooth. Herky-jerky movements and sudden inputs only upset a car's balance, reducing traction and increasing the likelihood of something bad happening (like smashing into a wall). When driving on a closed course, try to be patient and methodical. Remember, smooth may feel slow, but on a track, it's actually faster.

Check out some of our other Top 10 Lists

Loading, please wait...

2017 Buick Regal Spy Photos Show New Hatchback Style

Posted:

The next Opel Insignia, sold as the Buick Regal in the U.S., has been caught testing in new spy photos.

As we can see from the body lines, the Regal is moving to a hatchback five-door body style with the current four-door sedan version likely to be cancelled. A station wagon variant is expected to join the lineup about six months after the car launches, but U.S. availability is unknown at this point.

Overall the wheelbase in expected to be stretched by about 10 cm, though the car should be about 440 lbs lighter than the current model.

SEE ALSO: Opel Monza Concept Details

A 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine will likely be the 2017 Buick Regal's base engine, while a more powerful option will be available, though the specific engine remains a mystery.

Styling will be heavily influenced by the Monza Concept which was shown at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. A large digital dashboard design that was previewed by the concept is also expected to make its way into the production version along with head-up display and OnStar 4G LTE Wifi.

The redesigned 2017 Buick Regal will likely hit the market in late 2016 as a 2017 model year.

Discuss this story at our Buick Forum

Loading, please wait...