When Kia recently debuted the mega-über-super-hot Sportspace wagon notion at the Geneva auto show, we right away speculated that it previewed the brand’s subsequent-generation Optima sedan. Certain, the wagon may possibly turn into a thing—albeit only for Europe—but the Sportspace’s genuine value was showing us what the 2016 Optima might appear like. As it turns out, we were appropriate (it is a good feeling!), since Kia has now released sketches of the new Optima, and it is more or significantly less a sultry twin to the Sportspace wagon idea, minus the wagon portion.
Ignoring the gigantic wheels in Kia’s Optima sketches, this is a lot more or much less what we expect the production car to appear like. If that appears a bit far-fetched to you, contemplate how breakthrough the current-generation Optima’s styling was when it debuted. We dig the slim taillights, sloping roofline, and that muscular, squinty, front-finish style. We’ll get an even far better appear when the production version bows at the 2015 New York auto show. There, we’ll also ascertain what changes new the Optima is hiding beneath its high-style exterior.
Talk about an Oscars surprise! Some of the on-stage bits at this year’s Oscars award ceremony may possibly look a bit forced, but Cadillac’s all-new “Dare Greatly” ad campaign slid smoothly into gear for the duration of the commercial breaks. Besides displaying off Cadillac’s new New York digs, inspirational “dare to ___” examples, and lots of slow motion, 1 of the very first commercials closed on . . . drumroll . . . the automaker’s but-unseen 2016 CT6 flagship luxury sedan!
The CT6 isn’t set to be completely revealed until the 2015 New York auto show, but millions have been given a bare show of the sedan’s clean flanks, strong front-finish styling, and its sheer length. Make no error, as we’ve surmised from spy photos of CT6 prototypes testing, the new Caddy is a full-size, rear-drive luxury barge that casts a shadow as huge as the BMW 7-series, Audi A8, and the Mercedes-Benz S-class. It’ll use a important amount of aluminum to maintain weight down, and its name officially marks the beginning of Cadillac’s new alphanumeric naming method.
We’ll need to have to wait until the New York show for complete details and a far better appear at the CT6, but for now, we dig what Cadillac has shown us. Check out the commercial for oneself below, and spend close attention at the end.
2016 Kia Rio Sedan and Hatchback: They are Nevertheless Here – Photo Gallery of Official Images and Info from Car and Driver – Automobile Pictures – CARandDRIVER
Mild tech and styling tweaks highlight the updated Rio.
Whilst the Kia Trail’ster concept was busy hogging all the consideration at the automaker’s Chicago auto show press conference, the updated 2016 Kia Rio sedan and hatchback have been waiting in the wings for a spotlight moment that in no way came. They had been mentioned only as an aside throughout the closing remarks, leaving us to ask: “Wait, what? The Rio was refreshed for 2016? And it is here?” Properly, it was, and we’ve got the particulars on all the modifications.
The refresh is led by revised front and rear fascias, the Rio adopting the corporate geometric grille mesh pattern seen on the Optima and the Soul. The headlamps get moved slightly inward imparting a more modern vibe, and new fog-light surrounds with satin bezels encircle projector lenses. The reduce valance also gets some horizontal style lines. The therapy continues at the rear, where the newly developed taillamps have been moved to the far corners of the automobile, and—in some cases—new reduce horizontal lines echo these discovered on the front. 2 new color choices, Urban Blue and Digital Yellow, also make the scene for 2016. Inside, some trim bits have been slightly altered, and Kia has improved the use of high-density foam in the A- and B-pillars to decrease NVH levels.
Acceleration, never the Rio’s forte, gets no help in the refresh. Energy for each the sedan and the hatchback comes from the exact same naturally aspirated 138-hp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder as before. In the sedan, its 123 lb-ft of twist are funneled to the front wheels through either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. Sadly, the manual is no longer obtainable in the hatchback.
The Rio’s 3 trim levels—LX, EX, and SX—are largely unchanged. The parsimonious LX comes with crank windows and manual door locks, despite the fact that it does supply some niceties, like air conditioning, a 6-way manual driver’s seat, satellite radio, USB and auxiliary audio jacks, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. The LX Power package adds keyless entry plus power windows and door locks. LX sedan buyers who spring for the automatic transmission get Bluetooth and Kia’;s efficiency-minded Active Eco Program in the bargain.
The mid-level EX comes regular with energy windows, cruise manage, remote keyless entry, and a tilt/telescope steering column. For 2016, the available Eco package is upgraded to incorporate a backup camera and Kia’s updated UVO eServices Telematics system. A new Designer package dresses up the interior with natty black cloth and gray leatherette upholstery with gray stitching, padded gray door-panel inserts, as well as gray stitching on the steering wheel, center-console armrest, and shifter boot.
The prime-dog SX trim—if such a bold claim can be created for such a humble transportation device—is focused on sportiness. To wit, we locate 17-inch aluminum wheels a sport-tuned suspension 11-inch, front brake rotors shift paddles and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The SX also adds a backup camera, navigation, push-button commence, leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, and a sunroof.
At Chicago, the 2016 Rio waited in vain for its moment in the spotlight, but purchasers will not have to wait long to get their hands on one. The Rio arrives in dealerships in the subsequent month or so—which is a lot far more than the Trail’ster can say.
Of course you are questioning, so we’ll just tell you up front: 39 mpg. That is what we got over 522 miles of driving with the BMW 328d rear-drive sedan, which amounts to one fill-up. It’s also 4-mpg better than the 35 mpg we saw from 2 2014 328ds, an xDrive sedan and our lengthy-term xDrive wagon (by way of 25,000 miles, at least).
That’s all the selections: rear- or all-wheel drive, sedan or wagon. The only 3-series diesel accessible in the U.S. comes with an 8-speed automatic, whether you like it or not, but confers a genuine mileage advantage compared with our extended-term 2012 328i manual (27 mpg over 40,000 miles). Neo-Prius fuel economy in the industry’s benchmark sports sedan? Sign here, please.
Our U.K. correspondent, Mike Duff, does not feel significantly of BMW diesels, specially the little ones. Lately he was overheard calling them “crap,” which is British shorthand for “not fairly as beautiful as the options.” Duff wonders why some Americans get all frothy about a 3-series diesel when they’re typical as cats in Europe, where they’re the preferred mount of widows, vicars, airport taxi drivers, and other people who want BMW prestige and luxury on the slowest, most frugal achievable terms. In Duff’s estimation, a 328d is as close as BMW comes to constructing a Buick Verano.
Nicely, you’re all fairly acquainted with the F30-generation 3-series, thanks to the umpteen million stories we’ve done on this car, calling out its sophisticated handling, its sugary engines, its fine brakes, and its diminished steering, which is absolutely colder than the previous E90’s. None of those observations adjust for the 328d, except the diesel engine and its numbers.
To wit: In the United States, you spend a $ 1500 premium to swap out the 2015-model 328i’s base 2.-liter turbo gasoline 4 for the 328d’s 2.-liter turbo-diesel. It is not a huge hit, thinking about you get better economy, a main torque bump of 25 lb-ft, and a lot of fancy new antipollution gear. Rated horsepower drops from 240 to 181, as horsepower always requires a dive when you install a slower-turning diesel.
When will the $ 1500 pay itself back in fuel savings? If you accept our fuel-economy numbers as your personal and take the U.S. fuel-price tag averages as this is written ($ 3.50 per gallon for premium, $ 3.66 for diesel), you will pay off the 328d’s diesel in about 42,000 miles. Of course, the break-even point can differ depending on your own mileage and the disparity amongst gasoline and diesel rates where you drive.
If you are the leasing variety and program to turn it in at 2 or 3 years, overlook any economic benefit to a 328d. The remaining advantage is the comfort of a 500-plus-mile variety, which you could regard as an extracost option like a sunroof or a fancier stereo. Not getting to cease so typically at fuel pumps—especially greasy diesel pumps—is worth anything to some people.
While a 328d purchaser gains significant economy, he or she is also sacrificing. A cause that blue spinner on the hood commands the huge premium is the company’s extended history of building graceful engines that swing to high revs even though creating only the most dulcet of tones. In the diesel, you chuck a thoroughbred and in its place install a clattering plow mule of an engine that spends most of its life lazing among 1000 and 2000 rpm, with unenthusiastic plods to 4000 rpm when you are really on it. This engine is an industrial issue constructed for a prosaic purpose rather than to satisfy a passion.
Let’s not overstate it. As diesels go, the 328d’s is pleasant adequate, the steel-cut rattling of its 4 jugs noticeable but properly muffled in the cabin. The immediacy of peak torque arriving at 1750 rpm and staying through to 2750 rpm guarantees that the 328d never feels slow. The 60-mph benchmark passes in 6.8 seconds, which is fast sufficient that you will not get flattened although merging but at the muddy bottom of the sports-sedan pond. Our long-term 328i manual could do it in 5.6 seconds, an altogether more BMW-like time the aforementioned diesel xDrive sedan, 161 pounds heavier, took 7.2 seconds. So, at least this rear-driver avoids the ignominy of becoming the slowest 3-series.
BMW pricing can catch you out if you are not cautious. Our 2014 328d totaled out at $ 45,075 with only a couple of options, which includes the $ 3500 M Sport package (wheels, suspension, seats, trim), the $ 1000 Dynamic Handling pack, $ 550 Estoril blue paint, and a $ 500 sport automatic transmission upgrade, which contains steering-wheel paddles and sportier shift maps. Hot M-like looks notwithstanding, this 328d had handful of frills no navigation, no backup camera, no parking sensors, no satellite radio. It’s fundamentally a Munich taxi with nice wheels and paint. Those pining soon after the E90 cars will remember the twin-turbo 6-cylinder 2009 BMW 335d that delivered 5.7-second -to-60-mph efficiency whilst burning diesel at 28 mpg. It was no taxi, but 5 years ago its sticker was $ 10,000 higher than the one on this automobile it didn’t sell nicely.
Some of you truly crave stripped-down Bimmers and Benzes with reputedly indestructible diesel engines. This is what Europeans in this segment buy, mainly, and owning a single stateside brings you specific credibility as a connoisseur of The Actual Thing. If you cannot live in Germany—or do not want to because the winters suck, socialists rule, and a great hamburger is not offered at midnight—then owning a 328d is the next ideal point. Even so, you should don’;t forget that these men and women buy diesels simply because their gasoline is roughly $ 700 per gallon and diesel is not only much more effective, but less costly (about $ 7.20 at press time). Here, if you’re seeking to drink from the complete fire hose of BMW fabulousness, stick with gasoline.
Is it feasible for a vehicle to be as well quite to torture test? The 2016 Aston Martin Lagonda could just qualify, but it is undergoing definitely savage-sounding hot-climate testing anyway. The restricted-production Lagonda sedan will be sold exclusively sold in the Middle East, hence the brutal higher-temperature evaluations, but a lot more essential than the 4-door’s (admittedly) anticipated hot-air gauntlet is that Aston Martin has lastly released its personal pictures of it.
Earlier this month, the Lagonda super-sedan was kinda, sorta accidentally previewed to the planet by Oman Air, Aston’s transportation companion to the Middle East. In contrast to the airline’s “leaked” photos, Aston’s are far much more flattering, coffee table book–grade pieces, but nonetheless reveal only the car’s exterior. That’s okay by us, however—the factor is just so damn gorgeous.
The slick, un-camouflaged automobile depicted in the photos is the initial Lagonda constructed, according to Aston Martin spokesman Matthew Clarke, and it is a verification test vehicle that is about 5000 miles into a “Hot Environment” testing cycle. “Broadly representative of a production model,” Clarke says of the auto, the prototype is deliberately configured in a “worst-case situation for heat—lots of black.” Onboard, the Lagonda carries data loggers that monitor about 85 temperature sensors and give the group with a heat map of the interior and exterior this electronic internet possibly explains why we nevertheless don’t have any shots of the car’s interior.
“Air conditioning functionality and efficiency is an clear consideration, but we’re also seeking at engine hot starts, durability of elements and material performance,” said Clarke. “One distinct test is a ‘heat soak’—the vehicle is left in direct, peak sunlight for a number of hours to produce cabin trim surface temperatures of circa 80 degrees celsius (176 degrees fahrenheit).”
The hot weather testing procedures contain driving the vehicle roughly 500 miles per day over a 4-week period of time, for a total of 14,000 miles in Oman over a 30-50 degrees celsius (86–122 degrees fahrenheit) temperature band, according to Clarke. Think of the procedure as providing the Lagonda a sun-kissed tan, but carrying out so with no sunscreen, water, or the gentility connected with the word “kissed.”
As for the appear of the auto itself, there is little we see right here that Oman Air didn’t currently give away: the front finish wears a stern expression, with a broad, horizontal grille and simple LED headlamp specifics. The profile—especially the squared-off C-pillar—is really formal, and the lengthy, flat hood exudes an air of power and grace. The Lagonda’s hood’s air extractors are situated in far more or much less the exact same areas as are those on the 577-hp Rapide S, major us to think that it is powered by a comparable V-12 engine. Given the Lagonda’s loftier position, nevertheless, we’d anticipate it will get a bit a lot more energy. We can also see that, like all current Astons, all 4 of the Lagonda’s doors open out and up a slight, curb-clearing angle.
Beyond what we can see, nonetheless, information are thin it is not presently clear how considerably of the physique is carbon fiber or some other exotic material, or if any such material is used at all. The car’s underpinnings, too, are a mystery the architecture most probably is shared with the Rapide S, but there’s a likelihood it utilizes components from Aston’s subsequent-generation automobile architecture. Oh, and as we currently mentioned, Aston Martin still hasn’t shown off the Lagonda’s interior.
What we do know is this: No more than 200 examples of this stunning sedan will be built—expect buyer deliveries to commence by this time next year—and the thing’s A/C should be on point. It will only be sold in the Middle East, and almost certainly for lots, and lots, and lots of money.
Is it attainable for a auto to be as well quite to torture test? The 2016 Aston Martin Lagonda could just qualify, but it is undergoing completely savage-sounding hot-climate testing anyway. The restricted-production Lagonda sedan will be sold exclusively sold in the Middle East, therefore the brutal high-temperature evaluations, but much more crucial than the 4-door’s (admittedly) anticipated hot-air gauntlet is that Aston Martin has finally released its personal images of it.
Earlier this month, the Lagonda super-sedan was kinda, sorta accidentally previewed to the world by Oman Air, Aston’s transportation companion to the Middle East. Unlike the airline’s “leaked” pictures, Aston’s are far far more flattering, coffee table book–grade pieces, but nevertheless reveal only the car’s exterior. That is okay by us, however—the factor is just so damn gorgeous.
The slick, un-camouflaged auto depicted in the photos is the first Lagonda built, according to Aston Martin spokesman Matthew Clarke, and it is a verification test vehicle that’s about 5000 miles into a “Hot Environment” testing cycle. “Broadly representative of a production model,” Clarke says of the vehicle, the prototype is deliberately configured in a “worst-case situation for heat—lots of black.” Onboard, the Lagonda carries information loggers that monitor about 85 temperature sensors and supply the group with a heat map of the interior and exterior this electronic web possibly explains why we nonetheless don’t have any shots of the car’s interior.
“Air conditioning functionality and efficiency is an apparent consideration, but we’re also hunting at engine hot begins, durability of elements and material efficiency,” mentioned Clarke. “One distinct test is a ‘heat soak’—the car is left in direct, peak sunlight for a number of hours to generate cabin trim surface temperatures of circa 80 degrees celsius (176 degrees fahrenheit).”
The hot climate testing procedures include driving the automobile roughly 500 miles per day over a 4-week period of time, for a total of 14,000 miles in Oman more than a 30-50 degrees celsius (86–122 degrees fahrenheit) temperature band, according to Clarke. Think of the process as giving the Lagonda a sun-kissed tan, but carrying out so with no sunscreen, water, or the gentility associated with the word “kissed.”
As for the appear of the auto itself, there is little we see here that Oman Air didn’t currently give away: the front finish wears a stern expression, with a broad, horizontal grille and straightforward LED headlamp particulars. The profile—especially the squared-off C-pillar—is fairly formal, and the extended, flat hood exudes an air of energy and grace. The Lagonda’s hood’s air extractors are situated in far more or much less the exact same areas as are these on the 577-hp Rapide S, leading us to think that it is powered by a equivalent V-12 engine. Provided the Lagonda’s loftier position, however, we’d count on it will get a bit far more power. We can also see that, like all recent Astons, all 4 of the Lagonda’s doors open out and up a slight, curb-clearing angle.
Beyond what we can see, nonetheless, specifics are thin it isn’t presently clear how significantly of the physique is carbon fiber or some other exotic material, or if any such material is utilised at all. The car’s underpinnings, as well, are a mystery the architecture most likely is shared with the Rapide S, but there’s a chance it utilizes components from Aston’s next-generation car architecture. Oh, and as we currently pointed out, Aston Martin still hasn’t shown off the Lagonda’s interior.
What we do know is this: No much more than 200 examples of this beautiful sedan will be built—expect buyer deliveries to begin by this time subsequent year—and the thing’s A/C need to be on point. It will only be sold in the Middle East, and possibly for lots, and lots, and lots of income.
Is it possible for a vehicle to be as well pretty to torture test? The 2016 Aston Martin Lagonda might just qualify, but it is undergoing totally savage-sounding hot-climate testing anyway. The limited-production Lagonda sedan will be sold exclusively sold in the Middle East, therefore the brutal higher-temperature evaluations, but more crucial than the 4-door’s (admittedly) anticipated hot-air gauntlet is that Aston Martin has lastly released its own pictures of it.
Earlier this month, the Lagonda super-sedan was kinda, sorta accidentally previewed to the world by Oman Air, Aston’s transportation partner to the Middle East. As opposed to the airline’s “leaked” photos, Aston’s are far a lot more flattering, coffee table book–grade pieces, but still reveal only the car’s exterior. That is okay by us, however—the point is just so damn beautiful.
The slick, un-camouflaged auto depicted in the pictures is the very first Lagonda built, according to Aston Martin spokesman Matthew Clarke, and it is a verification test vehicle that’s about 5000 miles into a “Hot Environment” testing cycle. “Broadly representative of a production model,” Clarke says of the automobile, the prototype is deliberately configured in a “worst-case situation for heat—lots of black.” Onboard, the Lagonda carries information loggers that monitor about 85 temperature sensors and give the group with a heat map of the interior and exterior this electronic web possibly explains why we nevertheless don’t have any shots of the car’s interior.
“Air conditioning functionality and efficiency is an clear consideration, but we’re also searching at engine hot begins, durability of components and material performance,” stated Clarke. “One certain test is a ‘heat soak’—the auto is left in direct, peak sunlight for several hours to create cabin trim surface temperatures of circa 80 degrees celsius (176 degrees fahrenheit).”
The hot weather testing procedures contain driving the vehicle roughly 500 miles per day more than a 4-week period of time, for a total of 14,000 miles in Oman more than a 30-50 degrees celsius (86–122 degrees fahrenheit) temperature band, according to Clarke. Think of the method as giving the Lagonda a sun-kissed tan, but doing so with out sunscreen, water, or the gentility linked with the word “kissed.”
As for the appear of the automobile itself, there is tiny we see right here that Oman Air didn’t already give away: the front end wears a stern expression, with a broad, horizontal grille and basic LED headlamp particulars. The profile—especially the squared-off C-pillar—is quite formal, and the long, flat hood exudes an air of energy and grace. The Lagonda’s hood’s air extractors are positioned in a lot more or less the same locations as are these on the 577-hp Rapide S, top us to think that it is powered by a related V-12 engine. Provided the Lagonda’s loftier position, nevertheless, we’d count on it will get a bit much more energy. We can also see that, like all current Astons, all 4 of the Lagonda’s doors open out and up a slight, curb-clearing angle.
Beyond what we can see, even so, details are thin it isn’t presently clear how considerably of the body is carbon fiber or some other exotic material, or if any such material is employed at all. The car’s underpinnings, too, are a mystery the architecture most probably is shared with the Rapide S, but there’s a opportunity it utilizes elements from Aston’s next-generation automobile architecture. Oh, and as we already mentioned, Aston Martin still hasn’t shown off the Lagonda’s interior.
What we do know is this: No far more than 200 examples of this beautiful sedan will be built—expect buyer deliveries to commence by this time subsequent year—and the thing’s A/C ought to be on point. It will only be sold in the Middle East, and possibly for lots, and lots, and lots of funds.
What It Is: The new 1-series compact sedan—BMW’s second front-wheel-drive model—wearing production bodywork. We’ll pause even though you beat your keyboard or mobile device against your forehead as the whole “front-drive” point sinks in. This sub-3-series model is getting prepped for battle against Mercedes-Benz’s CLA-class and Audi’s slick A3 sedan, which are also front-wheel-drive-based.
The compact vehicle you see right here shares its dirty bits with BMW’s initial FWD vehicle, the 2-series Active Tourer, but it will be referred to as the 1-series to adhere to BMW’s odd-numbered badging for sedans. You could recall that BMW previously sold a 1-series here in the States, but it was a rear-drive 2-door coupe or convertible that was succeeded by the 2-series family members. Yes, we know, it’s confusing for some purpose BMW’s even-numbered naming scheme for 2-door autos and “4-door coupes” like the 228i, 6-series Gran Coupe, and 4-series somehow also applies to the front-drive Active Tourer mini-minivan. All you want to know is that unlike the 3- and 4-series and 5- and 6-series, the 1-series sedan is largely unrelated to the one particular-numeral-higher vehicle, not to mention every other BMW on sale in the U.S. right now.
Why It Matters: With its German competition spitting out new, low-priced compact sedans, BMW has to introduce a equivalent model to preserve up. BMW’s 2-series coupe is a great-driving piece, but its appeal is limited by its body style and tight back seat. The 1-series, therefore, offers BMW a appropriate entry-level model here in the U.S., exactly where even the worth-packed 320i—a de-tuned, discounted 328i—rings in at $ 33,700. The 1er also ostensibly will help boost the company’s CAFE fuel-efficiency number in the U.S.
Platform: The 2016 1-series sedan will use BMW’s UKL compact front-drive architecture, which currently serves under the 2-series Active Tourer and the latest Mini Cooper. Comparable to the bigger 3-series, the front suspension is a strut design and style, even though the rear consists of a multilink arrangement. Getting driven the 2-series Active Tourer and numerous versions of the new Mini, we can report that the platform is stiff, quiet, and capable of delivering very good handling. We anticipate the 1-series sedan to create on those attributes and perhaps be the ideal UKL car to drive.
From what we can see on this prototype, BMW has gotten the proportions quite, extremely correct. This is no modest accomplishment generating a front-drive sedan look sleek and balanced in profile is hard function, but BMW appears to have pulled it off. The base of the A-pillar is aft of the front wheel opening, maintaining a rear-drive-like dash-to-axle profile and sustaining maximum visual length for the hood, and the front and rear overhangs are pleasingly clipped. The roofline also avoids the bubble appear that plagues several stubby sedans.
Powertrain: Given that BMW’s fantastic inline-6 is unlikely to fit transversely in the 1-series sedan’s engine bay, we have to conclude that the largest engine will be a 4-cylinder from BMWs brand-spanking-new family of modest turbocharged engines. It’s also possible that BMW could drop its new turbocharged 3-cylinder engine—which already is presented here in the base Mini Cooper—to pump up fuel-economy numbers. The 2-series Active Tourer’s most-strong turbocharged 4-cylinder puts down 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and we suspect the 1-series will get a lot more or less the identical output. Provided that the German organizations adhere to every other into any and all breaches, we’d expect an M version to come along ultimately to battle the Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG and the Audi S3.
As for transmissions, anticipate an 8-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual, and do not be shocked if BMW stirs in optional all-wheel drive after all, Benz and Audi each offer all-wheel traction for their compact sedans.
Competitors: Acura TLX, Audi A3, Lexus IS250, Mercedes-Benz CLA-class, Volkswagen CC.
Estimated Arrival and Price: The 1-series prototype pictured here looks to be nearly comprehensive and production-prepared, meaning it could go on sale in Europe as quickly as early next year. We’d anticipate to wait an additional 12 months or so before it arrives stateside, potentially as a 2017 model. A $ 30K base value would align the tiny BMW nicely with the CLA250 and A3 1.8T. Now the only query remaining is: Would you purchase a front-drive BMW?
For the duration of this week’s huge reveal occasion for the 2016 Volvo XC90, we stumbled across Volvo’s ambitious solution plans for the subsequent 4 years—and beyond. Really, we didn’t so much as stumble across them as we had been shown them: Buried in a presentation slide covering XC90 specifics, and visible for much less than half a minute, was a tiny chart showing what Volvo has planned subsequent. This happy accident immediately produced the classroom session magnitudes more fascinating.
We already knew that the XC90 would spearhead the company’s self-described rebirth, but we now know what the entire litter will sooner or later contain. Here’s what we discovered:
Volvo is planning on creating 9 core models more than 3 essential model lines: the 40-, 60-, and 90-series. Every single group will consist of a sedan, a wagon, and an SUV/crossover. Today, Volvo’s global lineup includes the non-U.S. compact V40 wagon an S60 sedan, V60 wagon, and XC60 crossover the bigger S80 sedan, Euro-marketplace V70 wagon, and XC70 off-road wagon and ultimately, the new XC90. At the moment, only the 60-series is totally fleshed out as per program.
The new data indicates that the S80 and V70—Volvo’s aging “flagship” duo—will be replaced by a large-mid-size S90 with a V90 wagon counterpart previewed by the gorgeous Idea Estate. The 60-series rides will stay Volvo’s mid-size offerings, while the 40-series line appears to regain an S40 sedan (which has been dead because 2012) and get an all-new XC40 compact crossover. All of these models, we’re told, have the possible for global sale. Yes, that signifies the U.S., also.
We expect the beautiful Concept Estate to achieve an further set of doors to become the production V90, but Volvo must otherwise leave the factor alone.
All of the fresh models in the new 60- and 90-series family will use Volvo’s Scalable Product Architecture (SPA), a shared modular platform that, days ago, made its debut beneath the 2016 XC90. All of the SPA-primarily based cars will bow by 2017 or 2018, and the S90 should be the subsequent major product launch. The 40 group will, by the end of the decade, have switched entirely onto Volvo’s CMA architecture, a compact front-drive platform in co-development with the Swedes’ Chinese Geely overlords. We do not anticipate Volvo will introduce the S40 sedan or the XC40 crossover before the new CMA platform is ready, but it is attainable that the automaker could quickly-track the 2 new 40 cars employing the current V40′s pre-CMA underpinnings.
In addition to understanding of Volvo’s new-model proliferation, we also got a taste of what those cars may possibly appear like. In an interview with Thomas Ingenlath, Volvo’s recently acquired chief designer, during the XC90 reveal occasion, we were told that each and every new Volvo going forward will share its simple “face” with the XC90, but each car will wear individualized styling tailored to its size and price. This holds wonderful guarantee for the brand, since the formal-searching XC90 is really handsome. Ingenlath seemed eager to apply some of the hotness discovered on the Concept Estate and Idea Coupe show properties to production Volvos. Correct on.
Introducing new little automobiles right here in the U.S. is critical for Volvo, which demands one thing affordable—and sexy—both to attract younger buyers and to compete with the new crop of entry-level vehicles from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. On the other finish of the spectrum, Volvo desperately needs a fantastic S90 to give its 60-series customers a bigger and more sumptuous car to upgrade to instead of abandoning ship for one more brand. It’s definitely an thrilling time in Gothenburg, and we are extremely significantly seeking forward to seeing these plans unfold.
Li’;l bro: The Audi S3 sedan has its big brother’;s good looks. But it really is a quicker runner.
So here’s a query for Audi’s marketing division: Why must anybody get an S4 sedan? The new S3 is cheaper, quicker (4.4 seconds to 60!), and, even though this will not trigger a purchasing impulse in everybody, considerably cuter. Sure, it is down a couple of cylinders compared with its bigger brother, and it has to make do with a less sophisticated 4-wheel-drive method. But this is 2014 and the planet is downsizing even the BMW M3 has provided up 2 pots.
Let’s commence with the apparent point that the S3 you are hunting at right here has its steering wheel on the incorrect side and wears a license plate that looks like an eye chart for myopic pensioners. That’s since, though the S3 does not touch down stateside until September (correct about when you are reading this), it is currently on sale in England. So we sourced one particular in the U.K. and arranged to infiltrate a former U.S. airbase to record functionality numbers, then did a whistle-quit tour of ridiculously quaint Shakespearean burgs with names like Kibworth Harcourt and Husbands Bosworth to see which 1 offers the very best black pudding. If you do not know what that is, don’t ask.
You already know the basics: The S3 is the beefy version of the transverse-engined A3 sedan, sharing the Golf’s MQB platform and packing the most strong present iteration of Volkswagen’s familiar EA888 2.-liter 4. That implies 292 horsepower, generally the exact same spec as the forthcoming Golf R. Even though Europe also gets each 3- and 5-door-hatchback versions of the S3, only the sedan will cross the Atlantic. And though Europeans are assisting to save the manuals with a normal 6-speed stick, all U.S. versions will have the 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic that is fitted to our test auto.
The appears are Audi-familiar. Despite carrying its engine sideways and getting virtually 10 inches shorter than an S4, the S3 appears close enough to its sibling that it could almost certainly use its driver’s license as a fake ID. The baby sedan’s hatchback origins are only clear in the relative shortness of its trunklid. With a chunky physique kit, quad exhaust outlets, and the silver mirror surrounds that Audi reserves for S and RS models, it is a handsome small thing—and a measure far more subtle than the Mercedes CLA45 AMG. Regardless of whether or not you feel that is a plus probably depends on how higher you put on your pants. Inside, the cabin is well completed and effectively equipped, even though apart from a flat-bottomed steering wheel and gray instruments (with an ’80s-style digital increase gauge), it feels very equivalent to the normal A3 sedan.
The 292-hp turbocharged 2.-liter 4 muscle tissues the S3 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, .5-second quicker than the S4 can handle.
The engine is the highlight. 2 decades ago, engines with the EA888’s distinct output came with turbo lag you could measure in Mississippis, whereas now you have to concentrate difficult to detect it. Push the throttle pedal and there’s a fractional delay as the boost functions by means of the technique, but it is so slight that you couldn’t really describe it as lag. Beyond that, the engine delivers perfectly proportional responses. There’s lots of low-down torque, but the engine enjoys getting revved, even beyond its 6200-rpm power peak. It sounds very good, as well, despite the fact that like the rest of its turbocharged MQB brethren, it cheats slightly with a sound-enhancing loudspeaker on the cowl that supplements the engine’s natural noise.
Audi’s online configurator for its new A3 sedan has at extended final gone live. As we do in such circumstances of a hotly anticipated car’s develop-your-personal function firing up, work quickly commenced on the virtual assembly of our dream A3. A huge part of the A3’s appeal, of course, is its affordability, not to mention its fine driving manners. Also, it looks like a miniature A8, creating it the perfect starter executive express. This is the version we’d get:
MODEL:
Audi S3 Sedan (base cost: $ 41,995)
Obtaining tested the normal A3 sedan and driven its hotter S3 sibling, we can say they’re wonderful machines. But the S3’s energy and handling advantage over the A3 can’;t be ignored, and we’re a energy-hungry bunch, so we’re skipping the normal version and going straight for the S. This, of course, calls for substantial further investment the S3 retails for $ 11,200 far more than the entry-level, front-drive A3 sedan.
Still, for $ 41,995, the S3 gives a 292-hp turbocharged 2.-liter 4-cylinder engine, Quattro all-wheel drive, a standard 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and a claimed 155-mph prime speed. It’s a shame that Audi hasn’t however decided whether it is bringing the European-industry S3’s obtainable manual transmission option right here, but the dual-clutch unit is snappy adequate. The base value covers the Premium Plus trim level the upmarket Prestige version commands $ 47,895. All of the Prestige content can be bought as person alternatives or packages on the Premium Plus—although doing so brings the price tag to parity with the Prestige’s base cost. Because we want every thing the Prestige has to offer, we just chosen that trim level for its bundled goodness.
Normal equipment on the Prestige is generous and consists of Audi’s MMI infotainment program with navigation, a bangin’ Bang & Olufsen audio technique, energy-folding heated side mirrors, adaptive complete-LED headlights, a backup camera and parking assist, and leather seats. Each S3 models come with a sweet quad-exhaust setup, 18-inch split-5-spoke wheels with summer tires, LED taillights, dual-zone automatic climate control, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. BMW will gleefully charge far, far far more for a similarly contented M235i for instance, the new-for-2015 all-wheel-drive M235i xDrive model starts at $ 45,850. Equipping it with leather, heated seats, navigation, and other stuff that is common on the S3 Prestige punts its MSRP over $ 52K—and don’;t forget, the BMW is down 2 doors to the S3.
Options:
Brilliant Black ($ )
Magma Red and Black Interior ($ )
19-inch Functionality Package ($ 1500)
There aren’t several choices the S3 Prestige doesn’t already have, meaning our list of extras is commendably short. In keeping with the S3’s junior-executive-saloon vibe, we spec’d Brilliant Black paint for a low profile. For the inside, we opted for the sporty Magma Red and Black interior scheme, which brings a dash of color to the S3’s otherwise dark cabin plus, the splashes of red nicely complement the S3’s standard aluminum trim. The only other goody we sprung for was the 19-inch Overall performance package, a deal that involves beautiful 19-inch aluminum wheels and Audi’s adaptive suspension dampers. We passed on the $ 1400 Advance Technology package, which includes a bunch of nanny driver-assistance gear mother please, we’d rather drive it ourselves.
So there you have it, for $ 49,395, you can appear like you run the company—and have way more entertaining than the guys who in fact do.
Mercedes-Benz is smack in the middle of a item offensive, and we now know how considerably 2 of its upcoming weapons—the all-new 2015 C-class sedan and GLA-class modest crossover—will expense.
With the CLA-class now occupying the bottom rung of the Benz ladder, the C-class no longer has to serve as the brand’s cost leader. Obtaining a littler brother also freed it up to turn out to be bigger and far more luxurious, and MSRPs are commensurately higher than before. For its component, Mercedes claims that far larger levels of common equipment imply that the cost hasn’t enhanced a lot at all. The C300 and C400 4MATIC models each go on sale at the end of August, although the rear-drive C300—the C400 won’t be available right here with RWD—will arrive in the 1st quarter of subsequent year. Here’s the breakdown:
2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 Sedan: $ 39,325, contains turbocharged 2.-liter 4-cylinder engine (241 hp, 273 lb-ft), 6-speed automatic, dual-zone automatic climate handle, Bluetooth telephone integration and audio streaming, push-button ignition, automatic headlamps, 6-inch show with central knob and touch-pad controls, energy tilt and telescope steering column, rain-sensing wipers, energy-folding side mirrors, MB-Tex faux-leather upholstery, aluminum interior trim, and far more.
2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC Sedan: $ 41,325, contains all of the above plus all-wheel drive.
2015 Mercedes-Benz C400 4MATICSedan: $ 49,515, includes all of the above plus twin-turbo 3.-liter V-6 (329 hp, 354 lb-ft), 6-speed automatic, 4-piston fixed front brake calipers, Premium package (heated front seats, SiriusXM satellite radio, Burmester premium audio, LED headlamps, and proximity entry), and Sport package (open-pore matte-black ash wood interior trim, 18-inch AMG wheels, sport suspension, AMG physique kit, black headliner, sport seats, flat-bottom steering wheel, cross-drilled front brake rotors, aluminum pedal caps, AMG floor mats, and stitched MB-Tex dashboard cover).
2015 Mercedes-Benz C250 (Euro-spec)
C300 buyers will want to invest $ 2700 for the Premium pack and $ 2500 for the Sport bundle, even though they also have the choice of the Luxury package, which expenses $ 650 and brings distinctive 17-inch wheels, a comfort suspension, a 3-pointed-star hood ornament, wood interior trim, and the MB-Tex–lined dash.
Extracost choices for all C-classes consist of any paint colour other than basic white or black ($ 720), a Lighting package ($ 800 adaptive higher beams and dynamic headlamps), the Multimedia package ($ 2690 navigation, 10-gigabyte hard-drive storage, 74-inch higher-res screen, CD/DVD player, SD slot, SiriusXM Site visitors and Climate, and backup camera), and the fragrance diffuser as seen on the S-class ($ 350). Also on supply: Airmatic air springs ($ 1190), an Interior package ($ 2300 leather upholstery, ventilated seats, ambient lighting, illuminated doorsills, and power and memory passenger’s seat), the Driver Assistance pack ($ 2800 Distronic Plus automatic cruise manage with auto braking, active blind-spot and lane-maintaining assists, as well as Pre-Secure Plus rear-end collision protection, steering help, and Brake Assist Plus with cross-targeted traffic detection), and a package that bundles hands-free trunk access with a energy-closing trunklid ($ 250).
The 2014 C-class began with the rear-drive $ 36,725 C250 Sport and its 201-hp 1.8-liter turbo 4. The $ 40,325 C300 4MATIC utilized a 3.5-liter V-6 very good for 248 horsepower, while the $ 43,025 rear-wheel-drive C350 Sport topped the lineup with a 302-horse V-6. For competitive comparison, the 2015 BMW 3-series lineup starts at $ 33,700 for the 180-hp 320i. The far more directly comparable 3-series models—the 240-hp 328i and the 300-hp 335i—start at $ 38,350 and $ 44,450, respectively, with rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive fees an further $ 2000.
Mercedes also released pricing on the GLA250 and GLA45 AMG sans in-depth options data. Each the 208-hp GLA250 4MATIC and the 355-hp GLA45 AMG 4MATIC scoot onto our shores in September, and they’ll cost $ 34,225 and $ 49,225. The front-drive GLA250 will run $ 32,225 when it arrives early subsequent year. All use a turbocharged 2.-liter 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. The CLA-class sedan—with which the GLA shares its platform and powertrain lineup—costs $ 1400 much less in simple guise and with 4MATIC it is just $ 850 less with the AMG treatment.
The whompin’, stompin’, 707-hp supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V-8 from the Challenger SRT Hellcat appears poised to make its way into an additional Dodge’s engine bay. Anybody surprised? The Hellcat’s second application has been offered away in papers filed with the Society of Automotive Engineers that describe engine information for a Hellcat-powered Dodge Charger sedan.
For these keen on cold, bizarre-sounding titles to technical papers, the SAE filing in question is called “J1349 Certified Energy Engine data for Chrysler as employed in 6.2L SC HEMI (Hellcat) 2015MY Dodge Challenger 6.2L SC SRT 2015MY Dodge Charger 6.2L SC SRT – Level 1.” Enable us to simplify that wordy mess to what we suspect the production auto will be known as: “2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat.”
So it appears like we have a 707-hp supersedan on the way sometime throughout the 2015 model year, at which point it will become the most horsepower-drunk production 4-door in the planet. Go ‘Murica. Mission accomplished. Bust out fireworks and the stars and stripes.
But wait—what does Dodge have to say? So far, the automaker has been mum on the topic, even dodging the question (pun not intended) when we asked them about the notion of a Charger Hellcat at the current initial drive system for the 2015 Challenger. But if we were bettin’ folks, we’d say you could count on the automobile to appear in dealerships by the end of 2014.
Pricing need to fall within burnout distance of the Challenger SRT Hellcat’s $ 60,990 MSRP. Now that Dodge appears to be spreading the Hellcat really like, might we suggest tossing the supercharged V-8 into, say, the Chrysler 300? Or perhaps the Viper . . . ?
