Mazda has revealed a new crossover SUV concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
4x4, Concept Car, Crossover, News, Family Car, SUV
SUV
4x4, Crossover, News, Sports Car, Supercars, SUV
Jaguar Land Rover unveil new Bond cars in Frankfurt
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) revealed its new James Bond cars - the Jaguar C-X75, Range Rover Sport SVR and Land Rover Defender - to the public for the first time
Concept Car, 4x4, Crossover, News, Supercars, SUV
Nissan reveals new Gripz concept in Frankfurt
4x4, Crossover, Family Car, News, SUV
Jaguar confirms new F-Pace pricing
SUV, People Carrier, News, Family Car
First ever World Car of The Year nomination for SsangYong
The newly launched SsangYong Tivoli compact SUV has been nominated for World Car of The Year (WCOTY) 2016.
SUV, Sports Car, Family Car, Crossover, 4x4, News
SEAT Leon Cross Sport set for Frankfurt
SUV, People Carrier, News, Family Car
Infiniti reveals QX70 Ultimate
Ford expands SUV line-up with all-new Edge
Bentley reveals Bentayga SUV
People Carrier, News, 4x4, SUV
Land Rover reveals bulletproof Range Rover
All-new Kia Sportage set for Frankfurt debut
Kia has revealed exterior images of the all-new Sportage, ahead of a global debut in Frankfurt.
Entering its fourth-generation, the new Sportage features a 'bold, progressive design'. Kia says the new model is inspired by the smooth and sharp shapes found on some of the most iconic modern fighter jets, and that the Sportage creates 'visual harmony out of the tension between sharp, defined feature lines and smooth surfacing'.
The face of the new Sportage represents the biggest change to the car's design, with the headlamps no longer integrated with the grille for the new model, instead sweeping back along the outer edges of the more sharply-detailed bonnet and bolder wheel arches. The Sportage's lower, wider 'tiger-nose' grille adds more volume, resulting in what Kia describes as a more imposing appearance and a more stable-looking stance.
The new model retains the swept-back silhouette of the outgoing Sportage, with a roofline that tapers slightly towards the rear of the car, longer front overhangs, shorter rear overhangs and longer wheelbase. At the rear, the horizontal forms and surface volume 'emphasise the car's width', while slim combination lamps are joined by a strip that runs the width of the rear, inspired by the 2013 Kia Provo concept car. Turn signals and reversing lights are separated, relocated lower down to add more 'visual weight and a greater sense of stability' to the lower half of the car.
The Frankfurt International Motor Show runs from 17-27 September 2015.
Electric, SUV, Hatchback, News
Kia Soul EV tests wireless charging
The Kia Soul electric vehicle is being used to test a new wireless system capable of transferring high power.
The wireless charging systems, which don't need precise alignment between the charger and the vehicle, are currently under development for electric vehicles in America. The test is being developed between HATCI and Mojo Mobility - a wireless power technology company, after being awarded a funding grant from the U.S Department of Energy (DOE).
The scheme has the potential to significantly enhance the convenience of electric vehicles - and so increase the appeal and acceptance among consumers - while possibly enabling smaller battery pack sizes and reduced vehicle weight.
"HATCI is honoured to be selected as a partner with the DOE" said Dr. Sung Hwan Cho, President, HATCI. "Innovative technologies such as this align well with one of our core goals, which is to create a vehicle experience that is intuitive and easy for the consumer."
Having already gone through several stages of development, this final phase will use five Soul EV's to test how wireless technology works in real-world performance, including durability, safety, and performance.
KMA and Mojo Mobility have not yet announced when the system will be available for purchase.
Audi e-tron quattro concept set for Frankfurt debut
Audi has confirmed a new, all-electric SUV will be revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
With a potential range of more than 310 miles, it builds on the experience gained developing the forthcoming R8 e-tron, the brand's first large-series electric car, which enters production in 2018.
The new e-tron quattro concept is designed from the ground up as an electric car and follows Audi's 'Aerosthetics' concept - combining technical measures for reducing aerodynamic drag with creative design solutions. Movable aerodynamic elements at the front, on the sides and at the rear improve the air flow around the car. The aerodynamically optimised underbody is completely closed. With a cd value of 0.25, Audi says the concept sets a new record in the SUV segment, helping contribute to the long range of more than 310 miles.
The study is based on the second-generation modular longitudinal platform, which provides 'considerable scope' for the drive system and package. Its length is between that of the Audi Q5 and the Q7, with its SUV body and flat, Coupe-like cabin giving the concept a dynamic appearance, while a spacious interior offers room for four people.
The large lithium-ion battery is positioned between the axles and below the passenger compartment. This installation position provides for a low centre of gravity and a balanced axle load distribution, giving the car 'better driving dynamics and driving safety than other vehicles in the segment' according to the German brand. Three electric motors - one on the front axle and two on the rear - effectively create an 'electrified quattro', making the e-tron quattro concept both efficient and responsive.
Audi's first ever purely electric SUV is destined for series production following its Frankfurt debut in concept form. The Motor Show opens its doors on 17 September.
Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe
Mercedes has revealed its new C-Class Coupe.
As the sportiest variant of the C-Class, the Coupe features a new front section with a diamond radiator grille and long bonnet, as well as a high beltline and frameless doors with free-standing exterior mirrors. A 'long drawn-out' dropping line typical of a Coupe, contrasts with the C-Class Saloon - while the suspension is 15 millimetres lower.
On the inside, the driver and passengers share an ambience borrowed from the C-Class Saloon. The individually designed trim elements underscore the sporty character of the interior, says Mercedes, with a seating system - including integral sports seats - designed specifically for the Coupe. With an 80 millimetre longer wheelbase, the C-Class Coupe is 95 millimetres longer and 40 millimetres wider overall. This increased vehicle volume creates more spaciousness for the driver and front passenger and there is more shoulder room, elbow room and headroom in all seats.
The AMG Line trim adds exterior features such as special bumpers and sills, a diamond radiator grille with pins in chrome and 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. Interior highlights include upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre in black with contrasting topstitching, a multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section and AMG sports pedals. The trim in open-pore black ash, combined with aluminium in the dashboard and the doors, emphasises the look. An optional Interior Chrome package features numerous highlights shrouded in silver chrome, including the instrument cluster, the air vents and the door openers.
The C-Class's suspension is set up for a balance of comfort and agile driving dynamics. A new 4-link front axle with wheel suspension decoupled from the spring strut plays a part in the car's handling characteristics. Steel suspension comes as standard. There are two variants with a selective damping system available in conjunction with this suspension, each of which is 15 millimetres lower than on the Saloon: Comfortable AGILITY CONTROL suspension with a sporty character, and Sports suspension with tauter springing and damping including Sports Direct-Steer system for even more agile handling.
The new Coupe is powered by a choice of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines with ECO start/stop functions. Compared with the predecessor they consume up to 27 percent less fuel. There will initially be four petrol engines available with the power spectrum ranging from the 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine in the C 180 with 115 kW/156 hp to the two-litre C 200 (135 kW/184 hp) and C 250 (155 kW/211 hp) models and the C 300, likewise with a displacement of two litres but with an output of 180 kW/245 hp. The two diesel models are equipped with an enhanced four-cylinder unit developing 125 kW (170 hp) or 150 kW (204 hp) and feature eco-friendly SCR technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction) for exhaust gas aftertreatment.
A lightweight construction with a higher proportion of aluminium helps make the Coupe lighter than its predecessor. Light-alloy components include the wings, bonnet and boot lid. At the same time, the body is now much stiffer and stronger thanks to the use of high-strength materials, which Mercedes says has a positive effect on not only driving dynamics and noise levels but also crash safety.
There are several safety and assistance systems based on the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive concept to choose from. ATTENTION ASSIST with adjustable sensitivity, which can warn the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness, is included as standard. Further standard equipment includes COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, which features an acoustic warning for the driver at speeds above 5mph and Adaptive Brake Assist to help avoid collisions by boosting the braking effect in line with the current situation.
When a danger of collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 124mph, thereby reducing the severity of collisions. At speeds of up to 31mph the system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles, and is thus able to help prevent rear-end collisions at up to 24mph. In addition to 3-point seat belts with pyrotechnical belt tensioning and belt-force limitation for driver, front passenger and rear passengers, numerous airbags serve to protect the vehicle's occupants in an accident. As in the Saloon, the air conditioning system in the new C-Class Coupe uses satellite navigation to detect tunnels, and closes the air recirculation flap automatically when entering a tunnel and opens it again after exiting a tunnel.
The new Mercedes C-Class Coupe arrives in showrooms in December 2015. Pricing has yet to be announced.
All-new Kia Sportage set for Frankfurt debut
Kia has confirmed its all-new Sportage will be unveiled at 2015 Frankfurt International Motor Show.
Featuring new, 'dynamic styling' Kia also describes the interior of the 2015 Sportage as its most refined high-quality cabin yet.
The fourth-generation Sportage features a bold, progressive design which 'exudes power and agility from every angle' says the South Korean manufacturer, adding that the compact SUV's styling 'creates visual harmony out of the tension between bold, precise feature lines and dramatically-sculptured bodywork'.
Inside, the SUV combines simple, modern style and rich material quality with the styling led by the brand's European design centre - located in Frankfurt.
Kia will pull the covers off the new Sportage on 15 September.
Audi Q7 gets new diesel engine
A new 218PS version of the Audi's 3.0-litre TDI engine has been added to the new Q7 range.
Joining the 272PS version of the V6 diesel unit, the new lower output option is capable of returning over 49mpg with CO2 emissions as low as 148g/km.
The EU6-compliant unit's 218PS, available from 3,250rpm through to 4,750rpm, and the 500Nm peak torque, delivered between 1,250rpm and 3,000rpm, are converted by the eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission into a 0-62mph time of 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 134mph.
The new Audi Q7 3.0 TDI quattro 218PS is available in SE and S line specification. Fitted with 19- and 20-inch alloy wheels respectively, these can deliver up to 48.7mpg according to the combined cycle test, equating to CO2 output of 150g/km. Customers who choose the SE, can also specify a smaller 18-inch wheel as an alternative to further reduce consumption and emissions to 49.6mpg and 148g/km.
Priced from £47,755 OTR, the new The 218PS version of the Q7 is due to reach UK customers in October.
Crossover, Concept Car, SUV, News
Mazda to unveil new crossover concept in Frankfurt
The Mazda Koeru crossover SUV concept is set to make its debut at the 2015 Frankfurt International Motor Show.
Koeru - Japanese for 'exceed' or 'go beyond' - was the name chosen for Mazda's latest entry into the growing crossover SUV market, which features the company's trademark KODO - Soul of Motion design - expressing "the power and vitality of a predator along with a unique level of refined dignity", according to Mazda.
Mazda will also display its new-generation model line-up in Frankfurt with highlights including an all-new MX-5 complete with accessories as well as several SKYACTIV powertrains.
Mazda's Frankfurt Motor Show press conference takes place on 15 September and the doors open to the public from 17-27 September.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car, News, SUV
Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell breaks zero-emissions record
Two eco-pioneers have taken real-world zero-emission motoring to a new level by driving a Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell 2,383 kilometres - 1481 miles - in 24 hours.
Arnt-Goran Hartvig (Sports Scientist) and Marius Bornstein (Master of Physics) travelled around the clock on public roads in Germany, emitting nothing but water vapour from the fuel cell electric vehicle. To achieve this distance, the two Norwegians covered the 300-plus kilometre route between Vatenfall's hydrogen station in HafenCity, Hamburg and a Shell hydrogen station in Sachsendamm, Berlin as many times as possible in 24 hours. Refuelling the car takes as little as three minutes, enabling the drivers to maximise the distance covered.
Their route included city driving as well as high-speed roads, testing the suitability of the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell for everyday use in all situations. "We wanted to see what the combination of a state of art fuel cell electric vehicle and ditto hydrogen refuelling station are capable of today. The result is stunning", stated the team after accomplishing their journey.
This accomplishment by the duo is the latest in a series of challenges to showcase the potential of fuel cell technology. In June last year the two chose the ix35 Fuel Cell to travel a record 700 kilometres on one tank of hydrogen. They have also driven from Oslo to Monaco, refuelling only at the hydrogen stations already installed along the 2,260-kilometre route.
The ix35 Fuel Cell is fitted with a 100 kW (136 ps) electric motor, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 160 km/h. It produces no harmful emissions - only water vapour comes from the tailpipe - and has an official driving range of almost 600 kilometres on one tank of hydrogen.
Thomas Schmid, Chief Operating Officer at Hyundai Motor Europe, commented: "This endurance drive highlights both the practicality of our fuel cell electric vehicle's long driving range and the environmental credentials of our technology. Our Fuel Cell programme has already delivered many world firsts, so it is fitting that the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell has once again delivered a new benchmark."
Prices for the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell vehicle start from £53,105 OTR with part-funding from the HyFive project - saving customers nearly £15,000 off the un-funded on-the-road-price of £67,985.
New Jaguar F-Pace tested to the extreme
Jaguar has been busy testing its new F-Pace in extreme conditions - from -40 degrees to plus +50.
Taking the new SUV to the searing heat and dust of Dubai as well as the ice and snow of Northern Sweden, the new F-Pace has been subjected to one of the most demanding test programmes the company has ever devised ensuring that every system functions perfectly, even under the most extreme conditions.
At Jaguar Land Rover's test facility in Arjeplog, Northern Sweden, average winter temperatures rarely exceed -15 degrees and often plummet to -40 degrees. The 60km of purpose-built handling tracks, mountain climbs, inclines, split-friction straights and off-road areas are ideal for optimising the calibration of the all-wheel drive system, Dynamic Stability Control and technologies such as Jaguar's revolutionary All-Surface Progress Control. The work done here makes sure that, whether on asphalt, snow or ice, the F-Pace delivers the connected steering feel and agility 'fundamental to Jaguar dynamics DNA'.
In Dubai, ambient temperatures can exceed 50 degrees in the shade. When vehicles are left out in direct sunlight, cabin temperatures can soar to 70 degrees - exactly what's needed to ensure that everything from climate control systems to infotainment touchscreens function perfectly in extremes of heat and humidity. And while the test engineers can relax in air-conditioned comfort as they drive in city traffic, this part of the test cycle is designed to place the cooling systems under very high load through a combination of high ambient temperatures and low airflow.
Andrew Whyman, Vehicle Programme Director, Jaguar F-Pace said: "We developed the F-Pace to offer the ride, handling and refinement demanded from a Jaguar, together with exceptional levels of ability and composure on all surfaces and in all weathers. Just as we paid obsessive attention to detail over the engineering of every single component, we've exhaustively tested the F-Pace in the most challenging conditions to ensure that it will exceed the expectations of our customers around the world".
The SUV has also been driven over gravelled mountain passes, marking the first time that a Jaguar test programme has included this uniquely challenging environment.
The new F-Pace will debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September.
Volvo hybrid XC90 qualifies for UK plug-in grant
Volvo's first petrol plug-in hybrid - the XC90 T8 Twin Engine - has qualified for the UK Plug-in Car Grant (PICG) scheme.
That means the new XC90 is now available with an on-road price of £54,955 including the PICG. The Plug in Car Grant has a designed criteria to encourage manufactures to decrease the level of outputted CO2 exhaust emissions. To achieve this, hybrid vehicles must emit less than 75g/km, a minimal travelling range of 10 miles and must reach a speed of at least 60mph.
Built on Volvo's SPA - Scalable Product Architecture - the platform is designed to incorporate electrification without encroaching on interior space. With the necessary battery pack concealed in the centre console, the Drive-E powertrain, from its initial concept, was designed to include electrification, with the new XC90 utilising both a 320hp petrol engine and 87hp electric motor.
With a combined output of 407hp, this 7-seat SUV emits a low figure of 49g/km of CO2, at the same time being able to go from stand still to 60mph 5.3 seconds.
The T8 Twin engine allows the driver to choose multiple drive modes: Pure - allows drivers to use electric energy for up to 28 miles with zero exhaust emissions. Hybrid - uses a combination of the electrical and petrol motors to achieve reduced CO2 exhaust emissions and Power - utilises the full power from both the petrol and electric motors allowing the driver to use the full 407hp available.
Companies choosing the XC90 T8 Twin Engine can benefit by writing down as much as 100 per cent of the cost against their income tax liability. Driver who choose the XC90 T8 Momentum pay as little as £99.83 BIK a month (40 per cent tax payer).
The Volvo XC90 T8 is on sale now and available in three trim levels: Momentum, R-Design and Inscription.