#2020 Ford Edge All Wheel Drive

[thecargays]

5 Sleeper Cars You Never Considered

5. 1997-1999 W210 Mercedes Benz E300 TurboDiesel

We’re starting this list with a lesser known beast, at least in North America. From 1997-1999, Mercedes Benz produced the W210 E300 Turbo Diesel, featuring the OM606, inline 6, turbocharged diesel making a whopping 170 horsepower and 240lb-ft of torque. Granted, it may not be much of a sleeper in stock form, but the W210 E300TD hides a monster underneath it’s hood. Daimler’s OM606 in turbocharged form is known to reliably make big power, and is colloquially known as the diesel 2JZ. Simple mods, like a piggy back ECU, can easily unlock up to an extra 100 horsepower and torque; while more impressive, big turbo builds are known to get into the 600 club with ease. 

While more common in Europe and Asia, a sedan variant of the W210 E300TD was brought to the US, and can be found anywhere from $6,000-$10,000 in 2023 depending on mileage and condition. Values are starting to climb as the aftermarket community is realizing the tuning potential of these robust engines, so I’d keep a keen eye out for a good deal on one before they become subject to the drift tax. 

4. 2009 Chevrolet HHR SS Panel Van

Made for just a single model year, the Chevrolet HHR SS Panel Van is on the short-list for becoming a collector car. Largely a product of the age of the nostalgic, classic recreations of the early 2000s, GM found it fitting to add the proven Cobalt SS powertrain to the HHR platform. Featuring the familiar, 260 horsepower, 260lb-ft torque, Ecotech Turbo-4 and 5-speed manual, the HHR SS was a sleeper right out of the box. Factoring in the significant aftermarket support, the practicality of a panel van was the pièce de résistance of the HHR platform. 

With the HHR SS Panel being sold only in 2009 and in extremely low quantities, it’s a challenge to find any for sale. Don’t be surprised to see figures over $20,000 for a decently maintained example. 

3. 2019 Buick Regal GS 

While not the “sportiest” option on this list, the 2019 Buick Regal GS offered a middle-of-the-road option in the mid-size sport sedan class. With a 3.6 liter V6 making 310 horsepower and 282lb-ft of torque mated up to a 9-speed automatic driving all four wheels, it wasn’t exactly a slouch. From the factory, it offers 5.4 second 0-60 sprints, making it a solid stoplight racer. Its Buick nameplate, poor marketing, and lack of aftermarket support led to few sales, and even fewer knowing the significance of the “GS” badging. This makes for an ideal, under-the-radar sleeper. 

Being a newer model on this list, it’s not uncommon to find a Regal GS selling for over $30k, especially with lower mileage. 

2. 2017-2020 Lincoln MKZ 3.0TT AWD/2017-2019 Ford Fusion Sport 

The Lincoln MKZ 3.0TT AWD and Ford Fusion Sport share a spotlight on this list, just as they shared most everything else. Built on the same platform, there are only a few key differences between the models. The 2017-2019 Fusion Sport was largely a parts bin special, featuring brakes from the Ford Edge Sport, adaptive suspension from the shared MKZ, and Ford’s widely used 2.7 twin turbo, Ecoboost V6 driving all four wheels. This produced an impressive 325 horsepower and 380lb-ft of torque, competent handling, and total sleeper status as the general public would struggle to find the difference between the Sport, and the Fusions on their local rental car lot. The MKZ took it a step further, though, using Ford’s 3.0 twin turbo V6, cranking out 400 horsepower and matching torque from the factory. Similar to the Fusion, the MKZ 3.0TT AWD is hard to separate from its hybrid and lower trims commonly used for Uber Black, but it’s proven itself to be a straight line beast. From the factory, the MKZ would hit 60mph in 5 seconds flat, and on to a 13.5 second quarter mile. With just a few supporting mods and a tune, these cars make enough power to shave a full second off of those times with ease, provided you don’t snap an axle on the launch. If you’re a glutton for torque steer, the engineers at Ford thought it’d be fun to offer the same, 3 liter, twin turbo, V6 powertrain with front wheel drive, albeit with 50 less horsepower. 

Being produced until 2020, the MKZ is another newer entry on the list, and prices tend to range from $25k-40k depending on mileage, trim, and options. While offering fewer luxury features, the Fusion Sport is typically more budget friendly, ranging from $18k-30k.

1. 2007 Mercedes Benz R63 AMG

Yes, Mercedes Benz earned two spots on this list, but I assure you, this is well deserved. While it’s up for debate as to what car segment the R-Class belongs to, it’s commonly referred to as a minivan. Having three rows of seats, a slightly elevated driving position, and being optimized for luxurious family cruises, it’s hard to imagine how this made it to the number one spot on our list. Enter the R63 AMG. The mad scientists in Stuttgart crammed the iconic 6.2 liter, naturally aspirated, M156 V8 under the hood. It made 503 horsepower and 465lb-ft of torque, driving all four wheels via the AMG Speedshift 7G-Tronic 7 speed transmission. Despite being a heavyweight at over 5000lbs, the R63 rocketed you and your 5 additional passengers and their luggage to 60mph in around 4.5 seconds. Aside from the AMG badging, the R63 is as inconspicuous as they come, that is until the roar of the V8 comes screaming past you at over 7,000RPM. 

Finding an R63 is tricky. With only 200 made for one model year, they tend to sell between $30-$50k according to the listings on Bring a Trailer. 

[itcars]

First Look: The 2020 Shelby GT500

The all-new Shelby GT500 – the pinnacle of any pony car ever engineered by Ford Performance – delivers on its heritage with more than 700 horsepower for the quickest street-legal acceleration and most high-performance technology to date ever offered in a Ford Mustang.

Arriving this fall to join its Shelby GT350 stablemate, Shelby GT500 is engineered to attack on all fronts. At the drag strip, it’s set to produce a projected 700-plus horsepower via its first-in-class dual-clutch transmission. At the track, performance improves even more thanks to its race-bred chassis, custom Michelin tires and the largest front brake rotors ever available on an American sports coupe. On the street, its menacing aerodynamic design and Ford Performance driver control technologies make every moment behind the wheel even more exhilarating.

Most powerful Ford production car ever In the process of making the all-new Shelby GT500 the quickest street-legal Mustang ever, Ford Performance created an exclusive powertrain to deliver new levels of power and torque.

The Shelby GT500 starts with a supercharged 5.2-liter aluminum alloy engine built by hand. To keep the intake air cooler and deliver a lower center of gravity, the team inverted a 2.65-liter roots-type supercharger with air-to-liquid intercooler tucked neatly in the V8 engine valley.

Like the Shelby GT350, the aluminum alloy block features weight-saving wire-arc cylinder liners and high-flow aluminum cylinder heads, plus larger forged connecting rods, improved lubrication and cooling passages. Beneath that, a structural oil pan adds strength, reduces vibration, and features a patented active baffle system to keep oil where it’s needed.

To channel power and torque to the unique carbon fiber driveshaft, Ford Performance leveraged learnings from the tuning of its Ford GT supercar’s dual-clutch transmission. The team selected a TREMEC 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, which can shift smoothly in less than 100 milliseconds – markedly faster than any manual gearbox. This dual-clutch transmission is designed for a number of drive modes, including normal, slippery, sport, drag and track, and features line-lock and rpm-selectable launch control through selectable Track Apps.

Next-evolution Mustang performance bred from Ford GT and Mustang GT4 To harness the power and torque of the most powerful Mustang ever made for the street requires cutting-edge active chassis technology, track-bred Michelin tires and Brembo brakes – all dialed in by Ford Performance.

Shelby GT500 takes advantage of revised suspension geometry, a new electronic power steering unit and lighter-weight coil springs front and rear. Next-generation active MagneRide suspension is baked-in, along with the latest in advanced drive mode technologies from Ford Performance. The payoff is the highest-ever lateral acceleration from a Mustang for greater track performance and driver control.

Putting all this chassis hardware to the pavement, custom Ford Performance-spec Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and more aggressive Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires feature unique compounds and tread. To provide track-ready stopping power, massive 16-5-inch (420-millimeter) two-piece rotors are added – the largest of any domestic sports coupe – plus larger, stiffer Brembo six-piston calipers. With 20 percent more swept area than the Shelby GT350’s, these brakes have more than 30 percent additional thermal mass in the front corners.

Two handling packages with increasing levels capability are offered for the all-new Shelby GT500. An available Handling Package includes adjustable strut top mounts and spoiler with Gurney flap. For the truly hardcore, an available Carbon Fiber Track Package features exposed 20-inch carbon fiber wheels with 0.5-inch-wider rear wheels (11.5-inch), custom Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, adjustable exposed carbon fiber GT4 track wing and splitter wickers with integrated dive plane. The rear seat is deleted to reduce weight.

A functional, menacing design tuned with Ford Performance know-how Thanks to a cross-functional team of designers, Ford Performance engineers and motorsports collaborators, the 2020 Shelby GT500 has functional track-hero looks to match its performance capabilities.

“With a double front grille opening and 50 percent more cooling pack airflow versus the Shelby GT350, along with the most advanced aero components and downforce we’ve ever offered, every millimeter of Shelby GT500’s fastback design is aimed at improving performance,” said Melvin Betancourt, Ford design manager.

Those large angular grille openings and muscular hood combine for a menacing, aerodynamic-led design inspired by modern fighter jet aircraft. The car’s wider front fenders and stance housing Shelby GT500-specific 20x11-inch wheels proportionally align to its rear fenders that hug up to 20x11.5-inch wheels. A standard new rear spoiler and updated composite materials in the rear diffuser result in added thermal management.

The team leveraged Ford’s motorsports technical center in North Carolina and Windshear, with its rolling wind tunnel – where top-tier racing teams test – to perfect the design of the Shelby GT500. Front fascia openings are more than doubled versus the Shelby GT350, while six heat exchangers are stuffed in to increase cooling pack airflow by more than 50 percent. A massive 31x28-inch louvered hood vent features a removable aluminum rain tray for better air extraction and increased downforce.

More craftsmanship, technology and driver comfort Shelby GT500’s purpose-built cockpit boasts race-inspired premium materials and unique finishes worthy of its world-class power. Premium touchpoints include an available exposed carbon fiber instrument panel appliqué and new door panel inserts in Dark Slate Miko suede with accent stitching. Available Recaro racing seats with firm side bolstering and pass-throughs for safety harnesses offer the highest level of performance. For those looking for even greater comfort, power-adjustable seating with Miko suede inserts is offered.

The all-new Shelby GT500 picks up a 12-inch full-color LCD instrument cluster, while a high-performance custom-tuned 12-speaker B&O Play premium audio system is available. All of this is controlled via an 8-inch SYNC® 3 touch screen featuring SiriusXM and FordPass Connect.

New colors for 2020 include Red Hot, Twister Orange and Iconic Silver. Painted stripes are available for the all-new Shelby GT500 too.

[enginerumors]

2020 Ford Edge Changes, Colors, Release Date

2020 Ford Edge Changes, Colors, Release Date

2020 Ford Edge Changes, Colors, Release Date – Going into the market since the next era, the 2020 Ford Edge will get some changes and updates. Gossips said that there would have been a new engine, reduced body bodyweight, decreased fuel ingestion and improved performance. Some new line is added for its outer component with additional modern capabilities you will find in the cockpit.

2020 Ford…

[augustus-watersfetish]

2020 Ford Edge SE AWD St Release Date

2020 Ford Edge SE AWD St Release Date

2020 Ford Edge SE AWD St Release Date – That Edge is undoubtedly an excellent decision involving its SUV competition. It reaches remarkable ratings for all of our analysis areas and has a cost interior. Its under-normal commencing price won’t wound its draw both. Believe it or not, all of the Edge has got any most excellent mix of high quality and importance in the classification, foremost us to…

[longwindow]

Dodge dart 2016

DODGE DART 2016 MANUAL

DODGE DART 2016 REGISTRATION

This head turning 2016 Dodge Dart Sedan fits your budget at Call or Text For Price.

DODGE DART 2016 MANUAL

SEO: Acura Audi BMW Buick Cadillac Chevrolet Chevy Chrysler Dodge Ford GMC Honda Hyundai Infiniti Jeep Kia Lexus Lincoln Mazda Mini Mitsubishi Nissan Pontiac Ram Subaru Suzuki Tesla Toyota Volkswagen Volvo Fiesta Fit Veloster 2 Cooper Blazer 300 Charger Bolt Impala Suburban Durango Enclave Regal Escalade Camaro Malibu Tahoe Challenger Bronco Explorer Edge F-150 Focus Expedition F-250 Ranger Sierra Accord Pilot Accent Canyon Civic Elantra Mustang CR-V Sonata Santa Fe Tucson Compass Cherokee Sorento Forte Sedona Sportage Navigator Miata Altima Armada Juke Rogue Maxima Sentra 1500 Sienna Tundra Camry Corolla Tacoma RAV4 Raptor Dart Equinox FJ Cruiser LaCrosse Cruze Journey Edge 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 subcompact compact midsize fullsize sedan coupe suv truck car crossover 3 5 6 gas automatic manual Contact Highway 700 Used Cars for more information. Monthly payment estimates and interest rates are for informational purposes and do not represent a financing offer from the seller of this vehicle. Acquisition fees, destination charges, tag, title, and other fees and incentives are not included in this calculation. Monthly payment based on approved credit. Any and all differences must be addressed prior to the sale of this vehicle. Highway 700 Used Cars makes no representations, expressed or implied, to any actual or prospective purchaser or owner of this vehicle as to the existence, ownership, accuracy, description or condition of the listed vehicle's equipment, accessories, price, specials or any warranties.

DODGE DART 2016 REGISTRATION

The price for listed vehicles as equipped does not include charges such as: License, Title, Registration Fees, State or Local Taxes, Dealer Prep, Smog Fees, Credit Investigation, Optional Credit Insurance, Physical Damage of Liability Insurance, or Delivery Fees. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. 🚗 FIRST TIME BUYER PROGRAM🚗 ACCELERATED APPROVAL PROGRAM🚗 ADVANCED EQUITY PROGRAM🚗 CREDIT REBUILDING PROGRAM GET PRE-APPROVED IN UNDER 15 MINUTES! CLICK THE FINANCING TAB AT LENDING PARTNERS FINANCE. TROUBLE GETTING FINANCED IN THE PAST?⛔ Bankruptcy?⛔ Repo's 1,2,3?⛔ Cash Jobs?⛔ Delivery Jobs?⛔ Open Auto Loans?💥AT HIGHWAY 700 YOU ARE💥APPROVED! 💥APPROVED! 💥APPROVED! Automatic - 4D Sedan - 4 Cyl - FWD: Front Wheel Drive - VIN# 1C3CDFAA4GD507759 - STK# CRVV59Īddress: 11108 Nw Us Hwy 441, Alachua, FL 32615ġ00% GUARANTEED FINANCING! YOUR INCOME IS YOUR CREDIT!AT HIGHWAY 700 USED CARS EVERYONE RIDES! 2016 Dodge Dart 173,751 Guaranteed Financing! Zero Down!ġ73,751 mi.

[anapedias]

How To Turn Windshield Wipers Off 14

Okay, so this is an easy one. Tracey j july 30, 2020.

How Do I Change The Windshield Wipers On My Vehicle

To turn the windshield wipers “off” from the neutral position, push the lever up one notch.

How to turn windshield wipers off. Pull the wiper lever toward you to turn the rear wiper on. To adjust the continuous wiper settings, touch the. How to turn off the windshield wiper of the ford f150 manually?

On the bright side a bad relay can be replaced for probably around $15 to $20. Posted on sep 22, 2016. Be sure to turn off the rain sensing feature when entering a car wash to avoid damage to the wipers.

A loose wire or bad connection could also cause your windshield. The wipers… 2016 f150, ecoboost 3.5 supercab. Press the up/down buttons on the steering wheel until settings is displayed on the instrument panel, then press the ok button.

Turn the ignition key to the ii position. When the relay isn't working properly it's either going to shut your wipers down completely or disable them such that once you turn them on you're not going to be able to turn them off again. When the reverse wiper feature is turned on, the rear window wiper will automatically start operating when you put your shifter in the r position, presuming the front windshield wipers are turned on.

The cadillac srx rear wiper triggers are at the edge of the windshield wiper handle. Push it away, toward the instrument panel to turn the rear wiper off. Follow the wiper arm away from the wiper blade to its base.

Pry up the plastic dust cap covering the nut. If you own one of the ford vehicles listed below and your wipers won’t shut off, here’s the fix. 2016 ford f150, windshield wipers won’t turn off.

If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device. Turn the windshield wiper switch off. The purpose of the automatic setting on your windshield wipers is so that you can drive with ease when it's.

Also, prefer the method in excellent working condition of your ford, because in. Mist, off, auto, lo, and hi. Pull the wiper handle (right side of steering column) toward you.

If you have your windshield wipers on the automatic setting, all you need to do is push it up once to turn the automatic setting off. For core car functions that you may use while driving, requiring two taps to turn a feature on isn't ideal. When the wiper lever is in the position, the rain sensor senses the amount of rainfall on the windshield and turns the wipers on or off automatically (off―intermittent―low speed―high speed).

If i turn the 2016 ford f150, windshield wipers won’t turn off. It is video i go over how to turn on and off the windshield wipers as well as the rear window wipers in this particular model of a toyota rav4. Set the wiper to the off position when the.

This makes some features less obvious and takes the driver's eyes off the road for a longer period. How to turn on and off rear windshield wipers on 2002. How to activate rain sensing windshield wipers.

If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device. There is typically a switch on the stalk or combination switch on the left side of the steering wheel. Press the wiper icon to bring up the wiper controls screen.

To activate the rear wiper in intermittent mode, turn forward once. Moreover, how do you turn off the rear windshield wiper on a ford? You will feel it click into the off position and if everything is working well;

How to turn windshield wipers off. How to replace windshield wipers on your car (easy) watch later. My windshield wipers do not turn on.

By pushing up return the wiper stalk to its original position. How do you turn off the rear windshield wiper on a. The sensitivity of the rain sensor can be adjusted by turning the switch on the wiper lever.

Set the ratchet to allow it to tighten the nut. Pull the wiper lever toward you to turn the rear wiper on. When you turn the wiper switch “off,” it activates a mechanism in the motor called the park switch, stopping the flow of power to the linkage assembly and wiper arms once the wipers return to the bottom.

The rear wiper is shut off when the button is. To clean the rear window from this position, turn forward once further. Select a socket sized to fit the hex nut.

On the windshield wiper stalk, attached to the right side of the steering column, you’ll find different settings labeled vertically: The wipers should turn off. When the rain sensing feature is turned on, the windshield wipers will automatically begin operating when your vehicle senses that it is raining.

To turn off the automatic windshield wipers on a lexus rx350 is pretty simple. Push it away, toward the instrument panel to turn the rear wiper off. Grasp the top of the lever in your hand and move it one position downwards to turn on the wipers intermittently.

As you rotate the knob to activate the wipers, the resistance changes and the wiper control module (wcm) reads the changing voltage and commands the wipers to a new speed or on/off. The wipers keep wiping, in a delay, about 5 seconds. Beside above, how do you activate rain sensing wipers?

Windshield wiper icon located in the “cards” area on the. Turn the end of the stalk on the right side of the steering wheel away from you to activate the windshield wipers. You’re going to be astonished at the simplicity of the wiper system.

The rear wiper can be controlled by turning the end of the stalk clockwise. You can turn this feature on or off with just a few steps: Turn the wiper lever upwards to move the windshield wipers one time, which cleans off any moisture without continuous action.

How to turn the windshield wipers off. You can turn this feature on or off very easily: Click the upper part of the button for continuous rear window cleans.

Then press the wiper icon again to turn off the wipers completely. To perform a single wipe with the windshield wipers, press and immediately release the button on the end of. Touchscreen (see touchscreen overview on page 4).

If the wiper blades are currently in the “mist” mode, pull the lever down one notch.

[blueweave8]

Autonomous Vehicles Market Size, Trends, Forecast 2021-2027

A study, recently conducted by the strategic consulting and market research firm, BlueWeave Consulting revealed that the global autonomous vehicle is projected to reach USD 52.4 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 14.5% during 2021-2027 (forecast period). The growth of the global autonomous vehicle market is driven by several factors. The elimination of accidents (due to manual errors) and the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions from autonomous vehicles are the primary factors contributing to the growth of the market. Furthermore, the lower gas and battery usage by an autonomous vehicle, as well as the high penetration of the automotive industry contribute to the overall growth of the market. However, the low customer acceptance rate and the growing threat of hackers in the driving operation have stifled the market growth. Additionally, high initial costs, combined with an increased risk of failure could limit the industry's growth to some degree.

Benefits Over Manual Cars Augmenting the Market Growth

Autonomous car technology has a huge potential to significantly increase safety as well as minimize energy consumption and congestion. Conventional manual driving imposes costs borne by the driver, such as insurance, car fuel, and depreciation, along with the considerable external costs on the public. Autonomous car technology not only eliminates these drawbacks but also offers enhanced safety and efficiency. Moreover, autonomous cars expand the roadway capacity and lessen congestion with the help of GPS technology. This feature efficiently routes cars through traffic jams and makes driving easier. Especially in the event of congestion, computerized systems can side-track a specific percentage of cars off the highways and the surface streets. This subsequently would minimize travel times and reduce fuel wastage in traffic, besides enhancing productivity.

Furthermore, autonomous systems possess the ability to adjust routing patterns for heavy cars, such as trucks, to evade vulnerable infrastructure thereby, cutting costs and conserving the lifespan of crucial roadways and bridges. Autonomous cars will also diminish high-risk driving. Additionally, increased road capacity contributes to lower costs. Furthermore, these cars are capable of facilitating car platooning, which in turn reduces the intersection stops and congestion. What’s more, autonomous cars also have the capability of finding their own parking space, thereby adding to the convenience of motorists and reducing the total parking cost.

Sample Copy :https://www.blueweaveconsulting.com/report/global-autonomous-vehicles-market/report-sample

Technological Advancements Driving the Market Growth

The surging technological advancements aiming at offering enhanced features while reducing costs are a major factor expected to drive the demand for autonomous cars during the forecast period. The key features include forward collision avoidance, advanced driver assistance, backup cameras, lane detection, adaptive cruise control (AAC), and short-range and long-range radars for automatic parking, among others. Additionally, active cruise control is a highly preferred feature that regulates the acceleration and braking of autonomous vehicles automatically. What’s more, the odometer powered by LIDAR aids in the 3D mapping of the environment while GPS-enabled Dead Reckoning sensors are used for the odometer. Dead reckoning uses the difference in measurements from the right and left wheels which, when combined with speed and odometer data, can precisely locate the vehicle via stored cartographic data. Parking, pedestrian detection, and other obstacle detection are all aided by the ultrasound functionality. Additionally, blind-spots are detected by the CMOS image sensors, which are also capable of identifying traffic signs. Other technologies that are projected to be incorporated by the end of the forecast period include pedestrian detection, cyclist detection, and animal detection.

Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected the global economy. Significant economic impacts have already occurred globally due to reduced production, disruption of trade, and closure of businesses. According to the estimates by the United Nations, the global economy could shrink by almost 0.9-1% this year. The COVID-19 has also hampered the growth of the autonomous vehicle market. The automobile industry is a pillar of the global economy automotive sector which had already undergone considerable slowdown since last 12-18 months from 2019 to 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The supply of automotive components all over the world has been disrupted due to restrictions on import-export activities by several countries.  

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the suspension of vehicle production, and supply disruptions, which has, in turn, brought the automotive industry to a standstill. Lower vehicle sales were one of the major concerns for autonomous cars in the first and second quarter of 2020 and the same is predicted for the next quarters. According to experts, the autonomous cars market, however, is expected to witness a significant rise by 2022, due to the mandates introduced by the governments of different countries. However, based on the said prediction, lower vehicle sales and an abrupt halt in the upgrade of new automotive technologies are likely to result in sluggish growth of the autonomous cars market in 2021.

Regional Insights

North America dominates the overall autonomous vehicle market and is projected to lead the market over the forecast period, followed by Europe. Since extensive research and development facilities are making substantial investments in smart automotive production methods and process automation, the United States is the leading country in the North American region. The Asia-Pacific region is also expected to grow at a faster rate, due to factors such as increasing disposable income levels increased vehicle production in developing countries such as India and China, and an increase in the number of luxury vehicles in different APAC countries, which are driving the growth of autonomous vehicle market.

Competitive Landscape

Since it is difficult to match the high capital requirements, the presence of leading players in this market space significantly reduces the prospects for new entrants. Some of the key players in the global autonomous vehicle market are Aptiv PLC, Honda Motor Corporation, Daimler AG (Mercedes Benz), Jaguar, Tesla,  Toyota, General Motors, Volkswagen, BMW, Ford Motor Company, Continental AG, Baidu, Volvo Car Corporation, and Other Prominent Players. In order to improve their production capability, and product portfolio and gain a competitive edge over competitors, the market leaders are increasingly participating in acquisitions, alliances, and mergers.

For instance, on 11 January 2021, Aptiv introduced the next-gen ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) a platform for highly automated and electrified vehicles. As part of Aptiv’s Smart Vehicle Architecture, the open and scalable ADAS platform supports the software-defined vehicle, minimizes complexity, besides reducing overall system costs.

About us:

Blueweave Consulting offers a one-stop solution for your market intelligence needs for any service or product. You get well-researched comprehensive reports based on qualitative and quantitative data to put your business plan into action. Your well-informed and timely decisions using our reports avert situations of excessive risks and help you grow your business with optimum risk-return trade-off.

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[crazy4tank]

Top 10 Best New Muscle Cars to Buy in 2020

New Post has been published on https://coolcarsnews.com/top-10-best-new-muscle-cars-to-buy-in-2020/

Top 10 Best New Muscle Cars to Buy in 2020

There is no denying the truth that electric cars started to gain grip in recent years and that most of them destroy however, mightiest muscle cars in a directly line. Hell, even Ford constructed a fully electric Mustang Mach-E all terain. However , driving a muscle vehicle isn’t only about the speed – it really is about the experience. The burbling has a muscle physique sound of the V8 engine, the particular smell of burnt rubber plus exhaust gasses still move the particular hearts of enthusiasts in United states. But , with all the options available on the market, exactly what muscle car is the best choice around? Here is our list of the Top ten best new muscle cars to purchase in 2020, in no specific order.

2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

There is only one term to describe the Shelby GT500 – an animal. A wild one. The particular Cross-Plane Crank 5. 2-liter High performance V8 in the most potent Mustang strikes 760 horsepower and 625 lb-ft of torque, enough to put some supercars to shame. Or to burn however, mightiest ultra-high-performance tires . Your choice, anyway.

Due to all-new 7-speed TREMEC Dual Clutch system transmission, this animal of a vehicle will accelerate from 0-60 with in only 3. 3 seconds plus cover the quarter-mile in only ten. 7 seconds. No other muscle vehicle is faster today, full prevent.

The GT500 is great in the corners, too, thanks to the MagneRide Damping System that adjusts the particular dampers 1, 000 times each second, and the rear limited-slip gear. Ford even put some digital gadgetry, courtesy of the AdvanceTrac program that uses ABS, ESC, plus EPAS to help you carve the edges better.

2020 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat

There is no other muscle tissue car that captures the creativity of enthusiasts better than the Opposition SRT Hellcat. Equipped with a six. 2-liter HEMI V8 with a supercharger, this completely bonkers coupe offers the driver with mind-blowing 717 hp. The rubber-eating engine sends the strength to the rear wheels via a 6 spedd manual transmission – precisely the issue enthusiasts need to hear.

The Challenger SRT Hellcat addresses the quarter-mile in only 11. two seconds and doesn’t stop speeding up until it reached 199 your. And if that’s not enough for you, Avoid offers an even more crazy version along with 797 horsepower that reaches the quarter-mile in only 10. 8 mere seconds. All Hellcat versions are specifically made to be precise in the corners, so that you can attack the track during the week-ends as well.

2020 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

The Camaro has probably the most aggressive and menacing appears of the legendary muscle-car trio, but additionally the most modern. It is equipped with the 6. 2-liter LT4 V8 motor that develops 650 horsepower plus 650 lb. -ft. of torque plus accelerates the handsome bodywork in order to 60 mph in only 3. 5 mere seconds.

Unlike most muscle tissue cars, the Camaro ZL1 provides aerodynamic improvements that make it more steady at higher speeds. It is also pre-loaded with a 10-speed automatic transmission made for faster shifting, and an electronic limited-slip differential for tighter handling.

2020 Equus Striper 770

The particular Equus Bass 770 is designed especially for classic muscle car enthusiasts. This particular hand-built masterpiece starts at $250, 000, which sounds like a lot, yet we think it is worth every penny. On the outside, the particular Bass 770 borrows the appears from muscle cars of the past, combining them into arguably the particular best-looking V8 machine.

The body of the Bass 770 is nearly entirely made of aluminum and carbon fiber for a dry weight of just 3, 640 pounds. Despite the traditional looks, the Equus masterpiece includes a modern Magnetic Selective Ride Manage suspension, Performance Traction Management program that combines the stability plus traction control systems, and Energetic Handling System.

The particular engine and transmission are since exciting as every other bit of this particular car – a 6. 2-liter supercharged V8 with 640 hp and a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. That is enough to propel the Largemouth bass 770 to 60 mph in only several. 4 seconds and onto a high speed of 200 mph.

2020 Dodge Phone chrgr SRT Hellcat Widebody

The Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody is almost similar to the Challenger Hellcat in terms of power. However , in this attractive sedan, you can sit up to 5 people in relative comfort and provide them one Hell(cat) of a trip.

The 6. 2-liter HEMI V8 in the Charger Hellcat is supercharged and develops healthful 707 horsepower, enough to make a person competitive to a Tesla Model S i9000 on the highway. The Charger SRT Hellcat is excellent in the corners as well, however the most impressive thing is that you may use it as a daily driver, exactly like every other sedan.

2020 BMW M5 Competition

Don’t think that the German sedan can be a muscle vehicle? Think twice – the M5 Competitors hides a state-of-the-art 4. 4lt Twin-Turbo V8 engine that evolves massive 617 horsepower and 553 lb. -ft. of torque under the hood.

Thanks to the AWD program that aids traction, the M5 Competition can accelerate from 0-60 mph in brisk 3. one seconds. The 8-speed automatic transmitting is one of the best in the business, while the managing dynamics are second to none. It’s the shame that BMW electronically limitations the top speed at only 156 your.

2020 Mercedes-AMG E63S 4Matic+

The Mercedes-AMG E63S is by far probably the most luxurious muscle car, with an internal that looks stunning and a suspension system that glides over the road. Nevertheless , the second this becomes boring for you, this car offers a 4. 0l bi-turbo V8 engine with 604 horsepower and 627 lb. -ft. of torque, enough for a neck-snapping three or more. 4 seconds 0-60 time.

Despite the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive program, the E63S includes a Drift Setting that, according to Mercedes, will make this easier for novice drivers to begin drifting. Neat.

2020 Lexus GS-F

Unlike most sports sedans in the category, the Lexus GS-F includes a naturally-aspirated 5. 0-liter V8 that will develops 467 horsepower and 389 lb. -ft. of torque. The power is certainly sent to the rear wheels via a good 8-speed automatic transmission. The 0-60 time is 4. 5 mere seconds, while the top speed is limited at 168 mph.

That might audio slow, but wait until you test the GS-F on a twisty street. Thanks to the F-Sport tuned suspension plus lower weight than its competitors, the Japanese sports sedan provides the car owner with a much better feel and sharper characteristics overall. For a second, you might overlook that you drive a large saloon plus feel like you are in a light sports vehicle.

2020 The cadillac CT6-V

The particular Cadillac sports sedan is another among our favorites because it offers higher levels of luxury and space in the fun package. Under the bonnet, this particular handsome sedan hides an OF V8 with 550 horsepower and 640 lb. -ft. of torque.

The engine sends the power towards the rear wheels via an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission. Handling is assisted with sports suspension with magnet dampers, and a limited-slip differential within the back.

2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350R

The Shelby GT350R is the highest-end edition of the Mustang, made for drivers who desire a combination of neck-snapping straight-line acceleration plus excellent handling dynamics. The five. 2-liter Ti-VCT V8 engine along with 527 horsepower sends the power towards the rear wheels via a six-speed guide transmission, which sounds fun.

The transmission is also cooled down, and there is a limited-slip rear TORSEN differential for more precision while drifting. The MagneRide Damping System is an additional is the state-of-the-art feature that will help you strike the corners more efficiently by modifying the dampers 1, 000 occasions per second, while also enhancing the ride quality.

The post Top 10 Best New Muscles Cars to Buy in 2020 appeared first on Muscle Vehicle .

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2020 Hyundai Santa FE Release Date, Changes

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Specs

2020 Hyundai Santa Fe

  2020 Hyundai Santa FE

  2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Price, Review – The Hyundai Santa Fe offers an attractive design, a comfortable interior and a wide range of infotainment and security equipment. The automaker presented the next-generation model at the Geneva Motor Show 2018, which goes on sale in the 2019 model year. The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe has made many significant improvements that cover almost every segment of the world. vehicle. Therefore, the fourth generation of Santa Fe is now on the new platform and, as a result, is now larger than its predecessor. With the growth of size, comes the larger interior space that offers more space and better comfort for all passengers. The exterior style becomes more daring and daring. In addition, it is now offered with the new diesel engine in the XL finish and is more fuel efficient.

However, in line with the brand new reports, the new edition of this model is also underneath development and could appear because of the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe. This version will probably be a report because the manufacturer has just given a full update. Instead, they are working on the newest SUV that will represent one of the largest SUVs in the lineup and will feature a three-row seat configuration.

  2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Exterior and Interior

There should be no changes in the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe since the current version has just been revised. The Santa Fe is now rolling on the new platform that has made it longer and wider. This has also affected the size of the cabin and now there is more space and comfort for all passengers. The exterior now looks bolder, thicker and more square than the 2018 model year. The grille has a more aggressive design and the headlights have also been revised.

  2020 Hyundai Santa FE Interior

  The Hyundai Santa Fe 2020 will be offered with configurations of five and seven seats. The interior space is improved and there is more space for the legs and the head for everyone. The board is large and has a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and standard Android Auto connectivity. The basic model includes satellite radio, a premium audio system, Qi smartphone charging and a backup camera. The new Hyundai will be available in SE, SEL, SEL Plus, Limited, Ultimate and 2.2D versions, with more modern features.

The new infotainment system, with a larger screen in the higher versions (and probably also in the N model), comes standard with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while the Qi wireless charging system is optional. An optional 8.5-inch front view screen is also available, which projects a virtual image onto the windshield with various information about the vehicle.

  2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Engines and performance

Under the hood, the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe can be powered by 3 engines as the outgoing model. The base is a 2.4-liter 4 line that will be capable of generating 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. The second is a 2.0-liter turbo-4 that produces 235 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. In addition, the 2019 model year added a new engine and this is a 2.2 turbodiesel-4 that drives the Santa Fe XL. This engine is capable of producing 190 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque. All engines will operate with an 8-speed automatic transmission and will be equipped with front-wheel drive as standard. However, the all-wheel-drive configuration will also be available.

  2020 Hyundai Santa Fe Price

Obviously, it’s too early to talk about prices here and the fact that we do not know how much Santa Fe’s forecasts cost much more difficult forecasts. We’ll be back with an estimate when Hyundai reveals price information for the next-generation SUV. The new Santa Fe will compete for Ford Edge ST, Toyota Avalon, and Volkswagen Jetta.

  The post 2020 Hyundai Santa FE Release Date, Changes appeared first on 2018AutoReview.Com.

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AUTOMOTIVE INFOTAINMENT MARKET ANALYSIS (2020-2027)

Market Overview

Auto infotainment or in-vehicle infotainment is a combination of software and hardware in automobiles that provide audio or video entertainment to occupants. Originally, the in-car infotainment system was only comprised of car audio system with radio, cassettes, or CD players. However, modern automotive infotainment system has evolved inclusion of advanced features such as navigation, video players, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, and Wi-Fi. Modern infotainment system has been used for rear-seat entertainment such as social networking, SMS text messaging, making and receiving phone calls, and accessing internet-enabled devices and applications such as traffic conditions, sports scores, and weather forecasts. Moreover, these applications and features were controlled by simple dashboard knobs and buttons, though modern infotainment system is controlled by steering wheel audio controls and hands-free voice control.

The global automotive infotainment market is estimated to account for US$ 24.06 Bn in terms of value by the end of 2019

Market Dynamics- Driver

Growing integration of technology and systems into cars for enhancing safety is expected to drive growth of the global auto infotainment market during the forecast period

Increasing concerns regarding safety and high density traffic have led cars to adopt various smart technologies including automatic parking assistance, GPS technology, anti-collision sensors, etc. Moreover, this integration of technology is increasing, in order to offer ease in driving for vehicle owners. Many automobile manufacturing companies are focused on research activities, in order to develop novel infotainment solutions for cars. For instance, in 2015, Maruti Suzuki announced a plan to include infotainment systems in all available new features for the driver’s convenience and vehicle safety in their new range of products and also announced a plan to upgrade the infotainment systems in their existing brands. Therefore these factors are expected to drive the market growth over the forecast period.

Growing preference for in-car entertainment and driving comfort are expected to propel the global auto infotainment market growth over the forecast period

Consumers are increasingly preferring to in-car infotainment and ease in driving while traveling regardless of the distance. In order to achieve such comfort, consumers are adopting various interior car accessories such as music accessories, radio systems, LCD screens, Bluetooth connectivity, and more. These car accessories help to improve overall driving experience for vehicle owners, which in turn, is driving the market growth. According to a white paper published by Impetus Automotive, electronic car accessories such as LCDs, music accessories, etc. accounted for 21.5% market share of the global car accessories market in 2014.

North America region dominated the global automotive infotainment market in 2019, accounting for 26.4% share in terms of value, followed by Asia Pacific and Europe, respectively

Source: Coherent Market Insights

Market Dynamics- Restraints

Significant slump in car sales is expected to restrain growth of the global auto infotainment market during the forecast period

Economic meltdown, rise in fuel prices, increase in rental cab services, and traffic congestion is expected to have negatively impacted the sales of different types of vehicles. This fall has been observed worldwide, which is affecting demand for infotainment system. According to Coherent Market Insights’ analysis, the U.S. auto sales fell in August 2016 with companies such as GM CO. indicated that their sales figures fell by 5.2%. Furthermore, Ford Motor Co. witnessed a decline of 8.2% as compared to 2015. According to the same source, in May 2016, premium segment cars such as Honda and Skoda witness drop in sales figures by 26% and 32% in India. Therefore, such factors are expected to restrain growth of the market in the near future.

Threat of hacking via infotainment systems is expected to hinder the global auto infotainment system market over the forecast period

Infotainment systems installed in vehicles are developed and connected by software and wireless communication. Such systems are prone to hacking and theft of information, since they heavily rely on internet for connectivity. Access to the internet makes these systems gullible to breach of hacking threat for vehicles as well as auxiliary devices such as laptops and mobile phones connected with vehicle. Such factors are expected to hamper the market growth over the forecast period. For instance, in 2015, after the hacking of a Jeep Cherokee via its infotainment system through internet connectivity, Fiat Chrysler voluntarily recalled 1.4 million cars to rectify the entertainment system fitted in those cars. Moreover, in April 2016, researchers at the German car club ADAC found that 24 models of cars in Europe were easy to hack and unlock using an amplification device.

Market Opportunity

Display and chipset manufacturers are expected to pose lucrative growth opportunity

Infotainment systems operate on certain operating systems such as Android, Windows, Linux, QNX, and more. Investing in research and development activities, in order to innovate novel solutions and features in infotainment system is expected to pose growth opportunities for market players in the near future. Moreover, premium segment cars are offered with touch-screen facility. Key players in the market can offer high-quality screens with sensitive touch, in order to capitalize the opportunities.

Demand for custom-made infotainment system is expected to offer excellent business opportunities for market players

Premium segment cars or luxury cars such as Bentley, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Rolls Royce, Cadillac, and more are equipped with personalized infotainment system. These car makers offer luxury to its consumers to get customized dashboard and control panel for infotainment systems with specialty material or wood being used. Moreover, some consumers demand for special features such as automatic head-up display, voice control recognition, and similar other facilities, which in turn, is expected to pose significant business opportunities for market players over the forecast period.

Source: Coherent Market Insights

Market Trends

North America Trends

Key manufacturer are offer innovative products, in order to cater to growing consumer demand

In North American countries, especially in the U.S., commercial car manufacturers are offering company installed infotainment systems with distinguishing features. For instance, manufacturers such as Ford Motors contributed to the in-car smartphone app interface. Moreover, Ford engineers are working on a system, which will contain code and documentation required to implement the AppleLink software into the vehicle audio system head unit to enable two-way communication with Google Android and Apple iOS devices. In 2015, GM Corp. worked on similar technology and adopted two new technologies Android Auto and CarPlay, in order to augment the in-vehicle infotainment system into multi-dimensions and make it more user-friendly.

Latin America Trends

Growing popularity of multimedia car accessories is expected continue during the forecast period

Multimedia systems have gained significant popularity among young car owners. The major consumers of car in Brazil are aged between 20 and 30 years. Sound equipment such as speakers and stereos have gained significant traction in the region. According to Coherent Market Insights’ analysis, in 2015, the sound equipment and accessories market was valued at US$ 0.6 billion. According to the same source, some other car accessories are trending among young car owners such as GPS and car security products.

Entertainment system is expected to be the largest segment in global automotive infotainment market in 2019 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% between 2019 and 2027

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Competitive Section

Key players operating in the global auto infotainment system market are Continental AG, Garmin Ltd., DENSO Corporation, Delphi Automotive LLP, Fujitsu Ten Limited, HARMAN International, and Clarion.

Key Developments

Key companies in the market are focused on product launch, in order to gain competitive edge in the market. For instance, in January 2019, Garmin International, Inc., a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd., launched updates to its navigation software, enhancements to infotainment platforms, and a demo of augmented reality technology at Electronics Show at Las Vegas, U.S.

Major market players are involved in collaborations and partnerships, in order to enhance their market presence. For instance, in January 2020, DENSO Corporation collaborated with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of Qualcomm Inc. to develop next-generation cockpit systems.

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https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/market-insight/automotive-infotainment-market-3302

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Is the 2020 Subaru Outback Safe? Plus, Our Long-Term SUV’s Power Liftgate Has an Issue

Subaru has built its reputation on safety, reliability, and the convenience of standard all-wheel drive on every vehicle it makes. Well, almost everything. But how safe is the 2020 and 2021 Subaru Outback? We’ve spent months with a 2020 Outback Onyx and can explain its NHTSA and IIHS crash test results as well as how its active safety systems work. Oh, and before we dive in, here’s the story on a new issue affecting our power liftgate.

About Our Subaru Outback’s Power Liftgate…

Compared to its midsize SUV competition—see our rankings here—the Subaru Outback makes a power liftgate affordable. Although the feature isn’t available on the base trim, the next higher trim offers it in a package. For $31,495, your 2021 Outback Premium or higher will have a power liftgate with a memory-height function and two buttons to close it; one just closes the liftgate, and the other closes and then automatically locks the car. That helpful feature is one I look for in every power liftgate.

Well, I appreciated the close-and-lock button until it disappeared the other day.

After the close-and-lock button didn’t respond the first time I pressed it, I tried again with the same, normal amount of force. The shy button then left its normal place and hid in the safety of the liftgate’s assembly where it is now. It’s unfortunate, though I’m thankful it happened to the close-and-lock button and not to the other one that simply closes the liftgate. We’ll have this checked out the next time we’re at the dealer.

Like an increasing number of SUVs, the Outback’s power liftgate comes with a hands-free feature. Wave your foot underneath the car with the key fob in your pocket, and the liftgate will open. That’s cool, but I personally prefer the system I’ve seen on Hyundais, Kias, and Genesis cars. Simply stand behind the car, wait for it to beep three times, and it opens—no fancy footwork necessary. This may lead to a bit of unnecessary beeping—say, if you’re walking around your car to your home’s nearby trash bin—but it’s the trade-off I’d make.

So How Safe Is the Subaru Outback?

The Outback is one of the safest vehicles in its class. Part of that comes from its superior all-around visibility. You like the bold curves of the Chevrolet Blazer and Nissan Murano? I do too, but they have a serious effect on rear visibility. Except for a rearview mirror that’s a bit more in the driver’s face than in some SUVs, the Outback does well with visibility. Then there are crash tests. In NHTSA testing, the 2020 Subaru Outback earned an overall five-star rating (out of a possible five stars). That’s a result of five-star front and side crash test evaluations and a four-star rollover score. The Chevrolet Blazer and Ford Edge match those scores, but the new Toyota Venza gets only four stars in the frontal test.

Then there’s IIHS testing, where it tends to be more difficult to earn top awards. Even so, the 2020 Subaru Outback aces IIHS testing, with top scores in six crash tests, good front crash prevention scores, Acceptable and Good headlight scores, and even an excellent ease-of-use score for LATCH child seat anchors. You can see why the IIHS calls the Subaru Outback a 2020 Top Safety Pick+. The Toyota Venza and Ford Edge both receive 2020 Top Safety Pick designations—good, but not as good as the Outback.

So clearly the Outback is safe. Unfortunately, however, its safety systems can be annoying. When the lane departure system can no longer sense lanes on the road, an alert appears in the instrument cluster’s info screen. Fine. What we could do without is the chime the system makes to communicate the same thing. At least on roads around Los Angeles, the system is often detecting and then losing sight of lanes—no problem. Although my husband and I enjoy pretending that each chime indicates we’ve earned a couple video game coins, I’d much rather the alert be silenced. There is a way to remove part of the lane departure/lane keeping’s functionality, but then an overly urgent orange alert appears in the instrument cluster. On a 2,000-mile road trip, senior copy editor Jesse Bishop kept mistaking the alert for a low fuel warning and wished “the light weren’t so big and bright.”

Agreed. Other than that consistent critique MotorTrend has had about Subaru’s sometimes overly fussy (but effective) active safety systems, our one-year Outback test SUV gets a satisfactory grade on safety tech. One highlight: I very much appreciate the rear cross-traffic alert system that’s bundled with rear automatic emergency braking. I still don’t consider them must-have safety features, but both have been extraordinarily helpful when backing out of driveways or parking spots. Then there’s the DriverFocus system that monitors whether the driver is paying attention to the road ahead. Our Outback Onyx doesn’t have it, though maybe that’s not a bad thing. During 2020 SUV of the Year testing, the Subaru earned a place as a finalist, but we commented on “the frantic alerts for seemingly random occurrences of driver inattention.”

The 2020 and mostly unchanged 2021 Subaru Outback don’t offer the commanding seating position of a traditional SUV, but it still competes with the segment’s best on safety. The tech could use a little fine-tuning, but we still appreciate its solid structure and safety features.

More on Our Long-Term 2020 Subaru Outback Onyx XT:

Arrival: Specs, Features, and First Impressions

Update 1: Quirk Takes Some Getting Used To

Update 2: Can the 2020 Outback Compete With SUV Functionality?

Update 3: Social Distancing and On-Car Camping With Our 2020 Subaru Outback

Update 4: 2,000 Miles and Lessons Learned

The post Is the 2020 Subaru Outback Safe? Plus, Our Long-Term SUV’s Power Liftgate Has an Issue appeared first on MotorTrend.

https://www.motortrend.com/cars/subaru/outback/2020/2020-subaru-outback-onyx-review-safety/ visto antes em https://www.motortrend.com

[qohow]

The 20 cars that will mark the start of the new school year 2020

Smile, it’s back to school. The recovery will be very lively in the automotive industry, with a catch-up effect after the delays linked to Covid-19. A festival of novelties is announced. Soon to be unveiled or about to reach the dealerships, here are the stars of the next few weeks. From the city car to the supercar, from low-cost to luxury, there will be something for all tastes.

Audi Q5 Sportback

Why is it going to get your attention? Because it will be more stylish than your classic Q5.

If on the classic models side, Audi has cleaned up the silhouettes (more A1 and A3 in 3 doors), on the SUV side, the brand with the rings multiplies the possibilities. Thus, one year after the Q3, it will be the Q5’s turn to have its Sportback derivative, a coupe-type model. No surprise: we take a Q5 (which has just been restyled), redesign the roof drop, tilt the bezel and draw a spoiler above the lights. The priority is the look, with a few sacrifices in terms of rear roominess and cargo volume.

BMW M3 et M4

Why will they catch your attention? Because their nose will make you talk!

Two years after the presentation of the Series 3 G20, here is finally its sporty M3 version. The sedan will be unveiled at the same time as the M4 coupe. The two BMWs will make people talk with their huge angular bean grille, which will give a hyper aggressive look. The power will fly away. From 431 and 450 hp for the Competition, they will be increased to 480 and 510 hp. The least powerful will have a 6-speed manual gearbox, while the Competition will have an 8-speed automatic. They will still be rear-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive will be offered afterwards!

Citroën C4

Why is it going to get your attention? Because it has a divisive look.

Citroën is back to conquering the sedan market. Two years after the second generation stopped, the C4 is back, putting an end to the wobbly Cactus C4. However, Citroën has no desire to fit into the mould. Its new compact car therefore dares to adopt an original silhouette, tinted with SUVs and coupes. A risky gamble? The interior is much wiser. This new C4 has the particularity of being a 100% electric variant. But it has the same characteristics as the e-208, so it only requires a 50 kWh battery and a range of 350 km. There is always gasoline and diesel. Orders will open in September, with the revelation of prices. The car will arrive in dealerships during the fall.

Citroën Concept-car

Why is it going to get your attention? Because it will be one of the few concepts of the end of the year!

The Mondial de l’Automobile has been cancelled in the spring. But certainly, some brands (at least the French ones) had planned to exhibit a concept car there… and their project was inevitably advanced when the French show fell through. Even without a show, we should discover some concepts in the coming weeks. During an interview given during the confinement, Pierre Leclercq, Citroën’s design boss, evoked a surprise in the rafters before the end of the year, something “quite revolutionary”.

Cupra Formentor

Why is it going to get your attention? Because its design is successful.

It’s the first Cupra-specific model… even though it’s closely derived from the Leon. The Formentor could be one of the commercial surprises of the fall season because we bet that its muscular style will hit the bull’s eye. It’ll be a feathery, powerful package, including a 245-hp rechargeable hybrid. If Cupra is reasonable on prices, the Formentor can easily divert customers initially attracted by the Audi Q3 Sportback and Range Rover Evoque, especially since Cupra benefits from a good brand image.

Dacia Sandero

Why is it going to get your attention? Because it will go upscale… but it will remain cheap.

Dacia will enter a new era with the third generation of Sandero. In order to comply with increasingly stringent European standards and regulations, the city car will be entitled to the modern base of the latest Clio! However, this will be simplified and the Sandero will do without the most advanced driving aids. But it will benefit from new equipment. While the exterior will evolve smoothly, the interior will make its revolution with a more modern presentation, with a large touch screen in height! Under the hood, we’ll have a classic offer. The Sandero will wait a little before daring to go hybrid.

Fiat 500

Why is it going to get your attention? Because this 500 is electric.

A brand-new 500 is about to hit the dealerships. What’s special about it? It’s 100% electric, and it’s the only engine it has (the old thermal will remain in the catalog). The technical specifications are very attractive, with a power of 118 hp which promises great performance, and a large battery given its size, namely 42 kWh. This gives a range of 320 km according to the WLTP cycle. The 500 can get out of the city. For Fiat, this is also an opportunity to take its favorite car to the next level. The 500 is therefore packed with technology: full-LED optics, 10.25-inch touch screen, semi-autonomous driving. Of course, prices seem to be high, with €34,900 and €37,900 for the high-end La Prima sedan and cabriolet! But the special core France Edition series is 29,900 € and Fiat will unveil more accessible models in the fall.

Ford Mustang Mach-E

Why is it going to get your attention? Because she’s going on a preview tour.

Ford’s electric SUV arrives in France. In September, the Mustang Mach-E will do a preview tour of dealerships. We’ll be able to see it in Nice, Marseille, Montpellier, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Lyon, Dijon Strasbourg, Reims, Lille and Evreux. It’s an opportunity to see the vehicle, which dares to look like a Mustang SUV, before placing an order! Several technical configurations are available, from 258 to 337 hp. Autonomy can reach 600 km with the large 98.8 kWh battery. The model is available from €48,990.

Hyundai Tucson

Why is it going to get your attention? Because it may well distract you from 3008.

The Tucson is Hyundai’s best-selling model in France and Europe. Its renewal is therefore an important moment for the brand. That’s not going to prevent the brand from completely redesigning it! The Tucson will be the first SUV to take advantage of Hyundai’s new style, called Sensuous Sportiness. As announced in the Vision T concept (photo), this will result in an even more muscular silhouette with prominent edges. The front end will be original with a grille that incorporates part of the light signature. The interior presentation will be upgraded with digital instrumentation. This new Tucson should benefit from hybrid engines.

Maserati MC20

Why is it going to get your attention? Because it marks the revival of Maserati.

Initially scheduled for May, the presentation of Maserati’s new flagship will take place on September 9. The MC20 (for Maserati Corsica and 2020) is the first major new Trident model since 2016. It is a supersports car with a brand new V6 engine, entirely designed by Maserati. This 3.0-litre twin-turbo engine develops 630 bhp. The MC20 has already shown its supercar-like silhouette via teasers, but the camouflage has effectively hidden the lines. It will be a new addition to the range, as the GranTurismo and GranCabrio will be renewed in 2021, with an electric block.

[fokohow]

TOP 20: THE BEST VEHICLES FOR THE FAMILY IN 2020 ACCORDING TO PARENTS MAGAZINE

Once again this year, Parents magazine gets wet by naming its best choices of vehicles for the family. Unlike last year, however, the publication is expanding its list of recommended vehicles to 20 (instead of 10 in 2019). Indeed, the magazine’s list this year includes a few additional categories, with the utility segment making up the majority of the models listed, unsurprisingly.

The magazine also considered the safety assessments carried out by the American institute NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). What’s more, the ‘family’ angle of the top 20 requires a test with child seat expert Abbie Patterson. Patterson, owner of the Super Car Seat Geek company, has tested all types of child booster seats in more than 50 car models.

Finally, automotive columnist Rob Stumpf, took the wheel of the vehicles in the child seat test to evaluate braking, steering, acceleration and a host of other parameters.

Without further ado, here’s the list of the 20 best family vehicles for 2020 according to Parents magazine.

Minivans – Best Value: Kia Sedona

In the minivan segment, Kia Sedona takes home the honours with the best value for money because of its more affordable price in its basic livery. However, the magazine notes that it is not possible to secure three child seats in the second row in the least expensive model. The automatic transmission (from 6 to 8 gears since the 2019 model year) is good for smooth shifting.

Minivans – Best Green Choice: Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

Chrysler’s representative in the ultra-family minivan segment is currently the only option (in the North American market) marketed with a charging cable. This rechargeable hybrid powertrain lowers average fuel consumption without penalizing performance, while the government rebate is not to be ignored here either. The Pacifica Hybrid will have to watch its back, as we already know that the next Toyota Sienna will be available with a hybrid powertrain.

Minivans – Best choice for large families: Honda Odyssey

Honda’s Odyssey is also an excellent choice, especially since the manufacturer has decided to offer its 10-speed automatic transmission on all trim levels. As reported in the magazine, the versatility of the Odyssey is unparalleled, as the minivan can accommodate up to six child seats at the same time. It’s also the most fun to drive.

Minivans – Best in all weather conditions: Toyota Sienna

Toyota’s Sienna retains its competitive edge once again this year with its optional all-wheel drive system. This increased traction is undoubtedly an asset when road conditions are more difficult, as is its powerful V6 engine, but the Sienna will have to count the Chrysler Pacifica among its direct rivals next year, the American manufacturer having already confirmed the arrival of a four-wheel drive version of its Pacifica.

Three-row SUV – Best Value: Volkswagen Atlas

When the German automaker launched the development of its three-row SUV, it clearly had North America as its target. The magazine was especially seduced by the affordable price of the SUV in its most accessible version.

Three-row SUV – Better Redesign: Toyota Highlander

The change of model for 2020 does him the greatest good, the former Highlander which had been in service since model year 2014. While the publication praises the new design, it’s also in terms of handling that the Toyota representative has improved, especially in terms of suspension. There’s also the availability of a hybrid version, which isn’t widely available in this group.

Three-row SUV – Best Choice for Large Families: Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent joined the three-row seating party for SUVs about a year ago. Here, the fact that all the vehicle’s liveries are equipped with constant-drive all-wheel drive is meant to be an advantage over the rest of the pack, while the publication pointed out that there are 19 (!) cup holders on board.

Three-row SUV – Best Quiet Ride: Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot looks almost Acura inside, not only because of its full equipment, but also because of its quiet ride. In fact, the Parents magazine article even goes so far as to compare the Pilot to the Honda Odyssey because the SUV is so comfortable. Unlike the minivan, however, the Pilot still offers the tandem of six- and nine-speed automatic transmissions. In this case, the older of the two (the six-speed one) isn’t necessarily a bad choice!

Three-row SUV – Best safety technologies: Nissan Pathfinder

Aging, the Nissan Pathfinder still seems capable of seducing a publication that mainly observes a vehicle’s family characteristics. Here, the safety systems are convincing, as is that horn blast heard after every drive where one of the rear doors has been opened before or while driving. This device reminds the driver that he or she may have a child – or even a pet – strapped to the rear.

Three-row SUV – Best Design: Mazda CX-9

Mazda is certainly not a brand with countless financial resources, but on the other hand, the design of the most recent seasons seems to appeal to the general public. In fact, despite its introduction in 2017, Mazda’s largest SUV has not aged a single wrinkle. The CX-9’s driving pleasure should not be forgotten either.

Two-row SUV – Best Quiet Ride: Buick Envision

The three-shield division has long been associated with the silence of its interior. The Buick Envision, assembled in China, is no exception to this rule thanks to the noise reduction system.

Parents magazine mentions the excellence of the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, but this mill is reserved for the more upscale versions. In the other trim levels, the driver has to deal with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine and a six-speed transmission only.

Two-row SUV – Best steering system: Chevrolet Equinox

It’s true that the Chevrolet Equinox comes with a reputation for being poorly assembled and less durable than average. But since its redesign for the 2018 model year, the compact SUV does much better in terms of driving experience, and even overall quality. Parents magazine found the Chevrolet’s steering to be particularly precise, while its powertrain is powerful enough.

Two-row SUV – Better space for child seats: Ford Edge

When it comes to space for child seats, the Ford Edge is second to none, according to the publication. This allows for three seats, a rarity in the two-row SUV segment. The Ford Edge is also one of the most comfortable.

Two-Row SUV – Best Redesign : GMC Terrain

Best redesign award for two-row SUVs goes… drum roll – at GMC Terrain! Oddly enough, the redesign was completed for the 2018 model year at the same time as the Chevrolet Equinox, but hey, it’s the magazine’s choice! The article also mentions the more comfortable suspension on the Denali model.

Two-Row SUV – Best Green Choice: Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

Par les temps qui courent, il faut regarder du côté des VUS purement électriques pour sauver au niveau de la consommation. Mais, fort heureusement, les modèles hybrides ne sont plus aussi rares qu’à l’époque. Subaru fait d’ailleurs le pari que son deuxième Crosstrek Hybride connaisse un peu plus de succès que le premier qui faisait appel à une motorisation hybride conventionnelle. Avec un arrangement rechargeable, il est possible de rouler sur l’énergie du bloc de batteries, mais il ne faut malheureusement pas s’attendre à de grandes distances.

Two-Row SUV – Best choice for long trips: Subaru Forester

The Subaru manufacturer is often named on this list by Parents magazine. The Forester would be the ideal vehicle for expeditions, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive, roof rack and exemplary comfort. You could even add that the Forester’s fuel consumption has been very good for the past few years, a fact made possible by the adoption of a continuously variable transmission.

Sedans – Best Value for a Hybrid: Honda Accord Hybrid

In the arguments listed by Parents magazine, the Honda Accord Hybrid sedan doesn’t cost much more than the regular model, while trunk space is no longer handicapped by a battery stowed behind the rear seat. The Accord Hybrid is also not an unpleasant car to drive.

Sedans – Best in all weather conditions: Subaru Legacy

The manufacturer has made it its hobbyhorse: four-wheel drive guarantees superior traction in winter. The Nissan Altima has joined the Legacy’s direct rivals with an AWD system, but it’s not a permanent type like Subaru’s.

The redesign for 2020 has certainly helped in this case, the sedan can now be ordered with a more energetic 4-cylinder turbocharged flatbed engine.

Sedans – Best sports car: Nissan Maxima

This was its angle of attack when it was redesigned for the 1989 model year in North America. The Four Door Sports Car still stands out from its peers today because of its relatively dynamic driving dynamics. However, Toyota’s effort is worth mentioning with its Avalon XSE, a large sedan that is surprisingly fun to drive. In the United States, there’s also a TRD livery!

Sedans – Best Hybrid Sports Car: Toyota Camry Hybrid

Still, it’s surprising to see that the hybrid versions are now the sportiest in Toyota’s lineup. Even the Camry is no exception to this rule. The manufacturer continues to offer a V6 engine for the more conservative among us, but we have to admit that the hybrid leaning of the mid-size sedan is at least worth a try.

[proteportainternational]

The 2020 Tesla Model Y Proves How Far Behind The Rest Of The Auto Industry Still Is

My opinion of Tesla in recent years has been one hell of a roller-coaster ride. At first, I admired the company's fast, innovative electric cars; then I grew to hate CEO Elon Musk's constant Twitter shenanigans and nuclear takes on journalists and the media.

Then I drove a Model S, a Model X and a Model 3; the last one twice, actually, first a Standard Range, followed by a Performance model. I loved each one of them, mostly for what felt like cutting-edge technology, performance and a general sense of feeling different, the way Apple computers must have felt when they competed against the beige-box Windows PCs of the 1990s. Then, finally, I despised Tesla for inflicting owners with an innumerable amount of post-sales issues, including notoriously poor quality control.

I don’t know what’s worse between a paint job that peels off during the first winter, or door handles that refuse to operate properly during a cool Canadian morning; don't even get me started on the infamous panel gaps.

This year, Tesla is back with its most important car possibly ever: the Model Y. It's priced to sell in the ultra-important, ultra-popular, ultra-lucrative midsize crossover segment, smaller and cheaper than a Model X and without those problematic Falcon Doors. Unlike wild experiments like the forthcoming Cybertruck—if that even happens as-is—the Model Y is meant to be a major volume-seller, the car that keeps the bills paid. But it also needs to still be a Tesla, meaning fast, high-tech and a cut above all other EVs, long as you check expectations about quality at the normally-opening door.

Yet will the 2020 Tesla Model Y being plagued with build quality issues affect its desirability? Perhaps not. Because here’s the cold hard truth about Tesla: whether we like it or not, it’s still ahead of the curve. Way ahead. And the more I drive Tesla's cars, the sadder I feel about the rest of the auto industry.   2020 Tesla Model Y: By The NumbersBase Price (as Tested):  $43,690  ( $43,690  )Powertrain: Dual electric motor setup mounted on each axle, one permanent-magnet synchronous, one AC induction / 75 kWh batteryHorsepower: 384 hp (286 kilowatts)Torque: 376 lb-ft0-60 MPH:  4.7 secondsTop Speed: 136 mph (limited)Cargo Capacity: 68 cubic-feet rear with seats folded | 15 cubic-feet front (frunk)Quick Take: Still the most technological EV on sale, the most range in its class, the strangest EV on the market. Build quality remains an issue.But Y?The Model Y may share a platform and a lot of related parts with the Model 3, but it's poised to strike hard in a segment that’ll start boiling anytime between now and next year. As I write this, the Model Y’s only rivals are the Jaguar I-Pace and Audi e-tron. But come this fall, the Ford Mustang Mach-E could give the Y a run for its money. Nissan then plans on deploying the promising Ariya later in 2021, and finally, Cadillac will join the party with the Lyriq sometime in 2023.But why aren’t any of these models on the market yet? I’m asking the same question, which I’ll get back to in a bit. To take them all on, the Model Y (across all its trim levels) is powered by a 75-kWh battery pack powering two axle-mounted electric motors. The rear one, which is the car’s main source of propulsion, is Tesla’s own Permanent Magnet Switched Reluctance type, a fancy term to describe permanent magnets that are located within the rotor itself. These are, basically, more efficient than most electric motors currently on the market. The front motor is a more conventional induction-type layout—similar to what you get in a Chevrolet Bolt EV—providing high levels of torque at low speeds, but also more energy-hungry. This is why the Model Y is first and foremost rear-wheel-drive. The front motor kicks in only when you really need it. Total power output from this Dual Motor setup is rated at 286 kilowatts, or the equivalent of 384 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. Tesla claims the entry-level Long-Range model (the one I tested) will hit zero to 60 mph in just under five seconds and that it will drive up to 310 miles on a single charge.Such specifications pulverize both the Jaguar I-Pace (234 miles) and Audi e-tron (204 miles). Only the upcoming Mach-E with the extended range package has a chance to compete against this Tesla. Perhaps more impressive is the Model Y’s 3,500-pound towing rating, which is a first in this category of vehicles. However, you do need to tick off a $1,000 Tow Hitch option to get it.Pricing for a 2020 Tesla Model Y kicks off at $43,690 USD (or $69,990 CAD) before applicable rebates, and will climb all the way to $53,690 USD for a much faster Performance model. Up here in Québec, where state-subsidized incentives are strong and EVs sell well, the Model Y is sadly not eligible for anything due to its high price tag.  (In case you’re curious: In Canada, EVs need to be under a starting MSRP of $55,000 CAD to receive any rebates, up to $13,000 in total. These incentives currently only apply to more affordable EVs like the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus, Chevrolet Bolt EV and other similarly priced models.) Less 3 Than You’d Think It would be safe to assume that the Model Y is basically a slightly lifted hatchback version of a Model 3 sedan. That observation is only half right. While it does ride on the Model 3’s platform, the Model Y’s wheelbase was stretched by half an inch, leading to a 2.2-inch overall length difference. The Y is also 2.8 inches wider than the sedan on which it’s based. These dimensional changes, accompanied by the higher roofline and hatchback configuration, inevitably lead to a more spacious and practical cabin. Rear leg and headroom are no longer an issue like they can be in a Model 3, and total cargo space is rather spectacular, to say the least.For reference, when the rear seatbacks are folded down, the Model Y will engulf up to 68 cubic feet of your gear. Add to that an extra 15 cubes upfront due to the frunk and Tesla’s crossover beats both the Jag I-Pace (50 cu-ft) and the Audi e-tron (54 cu-ft) in cargo capacity. Even the Ford Mustang Mach-E can’t match this at 59.6 cu-ft rear / 4.8 cu-ft front. And while the Model Y is technically a five-seater, you can add a third row for a seven-seat interior. However, because the option costs $3,000, and that the seats themselves are tiny and eat up a fair amount of cargo space, I don’t recommend getting it.Except for what I just mentioned above, there aren’t many available options for a Model Y. Your choice of interior colors is limited to black or white. Tesla does include the standard Autopilot automated driving assistance technology, with the Full Self-Driving Capability feature remaining an $8,000 option. My tester didn’t have that one ticked off, which meant it had driver assist technology and not actual, fully autonomous driving. A reminder: no car has that. The FSD option includes some features supposedly coming down the road. It's your call if you have faith in that or not.  Come At Me, Muskbros Before I move onto my driving impressions, I will say that I was just as disappointed by this thing’s overall build quality as the Model 3’s. Among the manufacturing issues I noticed on my tester, which I obtained through the Turo ride-sharing app, was a passenger-side headlight that wasn’t properly aligned, a rear bumper that didn’t quite tuck in the same way on both sides of the car, a rear hatch that had a wider door-to-body gap on one side than the other, and some rubber moldings that felt they had been installed as afterthoughts. That the Model Y’s large center console is made out of cheap Dollarama-grade plastic is another huge letdown. Cabin noise was also very apparent during my drive, where squeaks and rattles kept disturbing the otherwise peaceful experience—it's all especially more noticeable with no engine to drown it out. The Model Y’s interior feels downright cheaply made, especially when you compare it to what the Germans or even the South-Koreans manufacture in this price bracket.Once strapped in, the now expected one-screen-controls-all setup stares at you robotically like HAL in the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey. In its defense, it’s a remarkably easy interface to comprehend. Granted, there is a learning curve, but the information isn’t cluttered like other systems, so it doesn’t take too much time to figure out where everything is. The screen also reacts quickly to your commands, the navigation map is clear and intuitive to use, and the overall interface is clean and attractive. I do feel Tesla’s latest vehicles deserve some physical controls, like mirror and steering wheel adjustments, or audio commands. Cycling through the screen to find them can at times be distracting, especially while driving.I did however enjoy how the car’s dashcam switches on the moment you hunk the horn. It’s a handy feature that allows you to grab some footage of the douchebag who just scraped off your front bumper. Forward visibility is excellent due to the absence of, well, a dashboard. So is overall comfort, especially up front where the seats provide ample lateral and back support. The rear seats are spacious, too, and offer ample head clearance for a big guy like me, but the seatbacks themselves are hard. You also sit upright back there. It is however possible to recline the seats, but they’re just never as comfortable as the ones upfront. The Model Y’s glass roof—which doesn’t open—gives way to a well-lit, airy cabin. On The Road When I say that Tesla is ahead of the competition, I don’t mean that it’s the first to market a 300-mile electric compact crossover. Or because it pioneered over-the-air software updates, an in-house fast-charging network or its own sales model that other car brands are just beginning to copy.No, Tesla is ahead of the curve due to the way it drives and how utterly efficient its drivetrains are compared to other EVs out there. Driving the Model Y captures Tesla’s technological dominance by the way it performs and manages its range. Although the industry now offers a wide choice of compelling EVs, I remain impressed by how smooth and instant Tesla’s motors feel.Unsurprisingly, the Model Y will launch itself out of the hole as fast as the best sports cars, but it’s the precision of its throttle pedal that’s truly astonishing. One simply needs to feather it for the vehicle to get up and go swiftly. It’s the kind of tactility that instantly infuses the driver with utmost confidence and control.  Releasing that pedal also unleashes Tesla’s excellent regenerative braking technology. While competing brands offer the possibility to modulate the recuperation system’s resistance, Tesla proves once more that two well-preconfigured settings suffice.About the Tesla Supercharger network: I didn’t really need to use it given the amount of range the Model Y has at its disposal. But it is handy if your area isn’t fitted with an established public charging grid. Where I live, there’s a public charger on every street corner, so Superchargers are kind of irrelevant. But it will allow you to grab 158 miles of range within only 15 minutes, so there’s that.That said, not having to rely on a charger was another realization that hit me hard as I blasted this compact crossover into highway onramps at speeds that would make a Porsche Macan Turbo blush: range anxiety is officially a thing of the past, folks. Battery technology is evolving so rapidly that we’ll soon get way more range than we actually need from an overnight charge. It’s a reality, that’s a lot closer than we think.Anyway, back to the driving experience. The Model Y, even in its most basic form, is fast, smooth and efficient. But that’s all expected from a Tesla. What I wasn’t ready for was how well it handles. Modern electric cars, generally speaking, all handle well due to the heavy battery pack that’s located down beneath their floor. This allows for an ultra-low center of gravity and near-perfect weight distribution. But up until now, the driving dynamics of most EVs, except perhaps the Jaguar I-Pace—an EV I once drove on a track like a bat out of hell—or the Porsche Taycan all feel a bit stale. The Model Y has a playful, tail-happy feel when it’s pushed hard to its limits. The Dual Motor setup somehow always prioritizes the rear motor, even though its original purpose was to be efficient and not performance-enhancing. Yet, it’s still willing to party.What I mean is that there’s actual rotation happening back there, which allows the Model Y to wag its tail if you really commit upon corner exit. Yet, it’s all very easy to correct. The steering is as precise as a Playstation controller, the levels of grip are immense, and the front wheels instantly kick in to provide the required amount of grip. It all happens so effortlessly that even an inexperienced driver will find the confidence necessary to throw this thing hard into a corner without fear of understeering into a ditch. The Verdict At this point, you’re probably wondering if the Tesla Model Y is worth your money. I’m going to say that yes, on many levels, this thing is worth every penny, even if it’s expensive. But you also need to know what you’re getting into when buying a Tesla. I say this because, in my immediate orbit, I know two Tesla Model 3 owners who are victims of bad paint, and Tesla is currently doing nothing to help them. Imagine the frustration of paying nearly 50 grand for a luxury sport sedan only to see it shed its skin the following spring.I do hear, however, that Tesla’s aftersales service is improving, and that appointments with service rangers—essentially Tesla repair people who come straight to your home—are made quickly and without too much hassle. I hear they even fix panel gaps. But don’t expect Lexus levels of craftsmanship, here. Tesla still has a lot of homework to do in this regard. But the truth of the matter is that nobody, and I mean nobody, currently sells something that directly competes against a Model Y. And that’s a little worrying for the rest of the auto industry. The phrase "Tesla-killer" or "Tesla-fighter" has been common in headlines about legacy automakers and startups alike; still, no one has come at this king yet.Perhaps Ford has a chance with the Mach-E. At least, on paper, it seems like a viable contender. But could it be too little too late? I mean, Tesla sold over 160,000 Model 3s in the US alone last year. Can this oddball Mustang be any sort of a volume-seller the way the Model Y is destined to be? I find that unlikely. But if anything, it’s only the start of things to come. When Nissan unveiled the Ariya electric crossover last month, I remember saying “finally, something innovative from Nissan!” for the first time in years, but then I was highly disappointed by its release date of late 2021 on our market. And don’t get me started on the Cadillac Lyriq. After months of shoving down our throats that its “innovative” Ultium battery would be the Android answer to Tesla’s Apple, GM unveiled an odd-looking concept car with unofficial range numbers and no actual specifications. Worse even was when Cadillac said all we’d only see the damn thing in the flesh in three years. Three years, GM. Really?You see, what the entire auto industry needs to understand with its EV promises and shady concept cars is that Tesla is here now. Tesla is selling. And Tesla is ahead. And the more it waits before releasing its products, the harder it’ll be for them to take on what was not long ago just a little California startup. Font: The Drive

[mitsubishifever]

Mitsubishi Pajero 2020 Review

There are no assurances the  Mitsubishi Pajero 2020 is the very last one we’ll see, but further updates for Mitsubishi’s long-runner are off the cards.

With a lineage that stretches back to the first-generation Pajero, revealed at the 1981 Tokyo motor show and sold in Aus’ from 1983, and four generations over the years that followed, the Pajero has earned icon status.

In fact, the current generation alone is something of an icon in itself, arriving in 2006 and given its current styling revisions in 2014. It’s no spring chicken, then, but the best off-road legends tend to have long unbroken runs – think first-gen Mercedes Benz G-Class (40 years and counting) and Land Rover Defender (at 33 years).

For the 2020 model year, Mitsubishi has made a few changes. Most significantly, the previous range-topping Exceed variant has been dropped, leaving a two-model range that starts with the Pajero GLX from $49,990 drive-away, and tops out with the GLS The powertrain is unchanged, meaning the long-running 3.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine continues with 141kW at 3800rpm and 441Nm at 2000rpm. Only one transmission is available, a five-speed automatic, sending power to Mitsubishi’s Super Select II four-wheel-drive system.

Official figures suggest mixed-cycle fuel consumption of 9.1 litres per 100km. 

Underpinning the Pajero is an ‘integral frame’ monocoque chassis – not typical of most hardcore 4x4s that use a separate ladder frame, but able to blur the lines somewhat between passenger car comfort and off-road ruggedness. The result is a sizeable four-wheel-drive that, even given its age, is thoroughly pleasant to drive.

Acceleration is leisurely, but for a car with the Pajero’s capabilities that’s fine. There are also hints of diesel soundtrack depending on engine load and conditions, but overall the 3.2-litre engine is muted and smooth for its age.

The IVECS II (Innovative Vehicle Electronic Control System) transmission smarts aren’t at the cutting edge of control technology compared to the era in which the system debuted. Adaptive logic and the ability to ‘learn’ driver patterns mean Mitsubishi’s five-speed auto responds favourably to driver inputs without hunting for the right gear or swapping cogs unnecessarily.

For drivers who would rather mete gear changes themselves, a floor-mounted manual mode allows gears to be held as required, which is handy in some off-road situations or when towing.

On the subject of towing, which is a primary purchaser consideration, the Pajero claims a maximum 3000kg tow rating. It pays to keep in mind, however, that up to 2500kg the Pajero carries a 250kg ball limit, at 3000kg the ball limit drops to 180kg – limiting flexibility somewhat.

Unlike most recreational 4x4s such as the Toyota Prado, Isuzu MU-X and even the slightly smaller Pajero Sport, the Pajero runs on fully independent suspension. That helps give it a more settled and stable feel over smaller blemishes in the road surface, more in line with 4x4s like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Land Rover Discovery.

While the Pajero legacy (in more recent times, at least) is forged on its simplicity and dependability, those same provisions cost it points on presentation.

On the inside, the fourth-gen Pajero looks every bit its age. The dash design – one massive tombstone of black plastic – makes no attempts to position itself as a premium product. It’ll survive spills, scuffs, moisture, dust and dirt no worries, but won’t be mistaken for a luxury product.

The newest part of the Pajero’s interior is its 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system loaded with features like DAB+ radio and smartphone mirroring for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, but lacking in-built sat-nav or a CD player, which seem like oversights given its propensity for remote getaways.

The driver faces analogue instruments with no digital displays. The darkly shrouded two-dial gauge cluster can be hard to clock at a glance.

Ahead of the driver, there’s no trip computer info or digital speedo readout; however, an LCD display in the centre stack offers some additional info, like barometric pressure, fuel monitoring, time and temp.

Ergonomics aren’t always on point, like the (admittedly minor control) switches hidden from view on the lower dash to the left of the steering column, plus limited seat adjustment (powered upfront) and lack of steering wheel reach adjustment mean the Pajero may not be an ideal fit for all drivers.

Despite generous external proportions, the interior may be less spacious than expected. There are no issues upfront, but adult passengers in the second row will find the seat base undersized with a lack of under-thigh support, though there is an adjustable backrest.

Getting into the third row is relatively simple, but once there, the tiny dimensions rule the rearmost seats out for all but the most compact passengers. A small, low seat, lack of toe and knee room, and no ability to slide the middle row forward force an awkward side-skewed seating position.

Comfort and convenience are covered by features like single-zone climate control, rear booster controls and overhead ventilation to all three rows, power windows with auto up and down for the driver, cloth and ‘synthetic leather’ seating surfaces, Bluetooth connectivity, heated front seats, auto lights and wipers, self-dimming interior mirror, HID headlights, and remote central locking with key start.

Items that have gone missing with the removal of the higher-spec Exceed model include a sunroof, leather trim, and sports pedals – but the GLS also gains Rockford 12-speaker audio, an alarm and auto high beam, while also coming in at more than R160K under the old range-topper, which seems an agreeable compromise.

With all three rows of seats in use, there’s barely enough space left to handle a couple of grocery bags. The final row of seats can be stowed flat in the boot floor, which is a fiddly multi-stage process.

Behind the second row, Mitsubishi claims a whopping 1069L to the top of the seats, meaning plenty of useful acreages to pack your luggage into, along with plenty of bag hooks and an included cargo blind. Drop the second row and there’s 1789L, with a load length of just over 1.4m.

On the safety front, Mitsubishi provides six airbags, ABS brakes, traction and stability control, plus three top tether and two ISOFIX child seat mounts for the middle row (positioned inboard and ruling out the use of the centre seat).

Against more modern competitors, the Pajero misses out on technologies that are fast becoming commonplace on much cheaper vehicles. Features like adaptive cruise control, attention monitoring, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring and the autonomous emergency braking are nowhere to be found.

Mitsubishi touts a five-star ANCAP rating, but the assessment is dated from 2011, meaning the data is now considered out of date with the lack of crash-avoidance technology making the Pajero ineligible for a five-star finish under current criteria.

For buyers seeking simplicity, the Pajero’s more basic range of features appeals to staunch traditionalists, but as a flagship vehicle, it leaves much to be desired. Particularly amongst peers like the Ford Everest and Toyota Prado, which carry more safety and luxury tech, but also wear more expensive price tags.

Similarly, the way the Pajero GLS comports itself on the road feels much more like past generations of 4x4s and not the newest or most advanced. The engine can’t be rushed, and would rather dig into its torque reserves than fly through its rev range.

There’s around 2300kg of kerb weight to shift, so the Pajero is no traffic light Grand Prix racer. It needs a moment to really get rolling, but between 1500 and 2500rpm it feels almost unstoppable.

Steering is on the heavy side at low speeds, with an 11.4m turning circle making for a somewhat cumbersome feel in tight quarters, but head onto the open road and it is much more stable and secure as a result.

Ride quality also favours the open road. It’s absorbent enough to soak up jagged rural road surfaces and doesn’t jar or shock occupants.

You can also point it away from made surfaces, with the Super Select II 4x4 system accommodating on- and off-road use with shift-on-the-go ease. To keep fuel use trim in town there's two-wheel drive, and should conditions turn damp there's on-road four-wheel drive for added traction. Head into the rough stuff and 4HLC mode locks the centre diff, while 4LLC adds low-range gearing into the mix for heavy-duty work.

In factory form, there’s 225mm of ground clearance and up to 700mm wading depth should things start to get hairy. While the lack of rigid axles won’t work for rock-hopping traditionalists, the four-wheel independent set-up holds its own on moderate off-road terrain, as does the standard rear diff lock.

As a touring vehicle, travelling noise is low, engine and road intrusion are well managed, though wind noise can factor in depending on the conditions. The block-shaped Pajero isn’t necessarily the most aerodynamically efficient.

Now that the newer Pajero Sport has established itself, it's clear that buyers after a better-equipped, plusher, or more high-tech four-wheel-drive have an option. Be that as it may, there’s still a clear audience for, and plenty to like about, the Pajero.

Its amount of time on the ground imparts the perception of having proven itself (recent recall notwithstanding), and certainly, on the used market, there’s no shortage of examples of the current fourth-gen model with well beyond 300,000km on the clock.

Owners are covered by a five-year/100,000km warranty and capped-price servicing for the first three years or 45,000km set at $479 per visit, occurring at 12-month or 15,000km intervals (whichever comes first) inclusive of all fluids and filters described in the regular service schedule.

Because of their dedicated ‘heavy-duty’ focus, cars like the LandCruiser, Patrol, Prado and Pajero are unlikely to ever be part driving, easy to park, economy champions. For their target market that’s absolutely ideal, too.

While the sophistication and complexity of rivals continue to expand, the Pajero sticks to the ‘keep it simple’ mantra favoured by regional and remote buyers and carving out its own niche in the process.

No model can run forever, though, and with production scaling down for overseas markets. Mitsubishi tells us Pajero production will soldier on for a few more years but won't yet commit to an end date.

The Pajero’s future gets even murkier now that Mitsubishi operates under the control of Nissan. While past concepts have pointed to a next-generation Pajero, the need to scale down development costs has put plans on hold while Nissan and Mitsubishi clarify the direction for Pajero and Patrol replacements.

With sharpened pricing over the years (including the ongoing current offer) and a hard-won reputation, the Pajero makes sense as a sturdy rig for touring South Africa from corner to corner reliably and comfortably.

If you’re not swayed by bells and whistles, the Pajero could be just the thing. It won’t stick around forever, though, nor will it have you bristling with joy every time you get behind the wheel, but it will handle anything you can throw at it and come back for more.

Article from: https://www.caradvice.com.au/786021/2020-mitsubishi-pajero-gls-review/

[usedcarexpertguide]

2021 Ford Edge updated, 2021 Jaguar E-Pace previewed, Fisker Ocean maps a plan: What's New @ The Car Connection

2021 Ford Edge SUV reboots with more tech features The 2021 Ford Edge gets a larger infotainment screen with over-the-air updates and more USB ports. 2021 Toyota Sienna review The redesigned 2021 Toyota Sienna minivan is a hybrid with available all-wheel drive netting an estimated 36 combined. It comes standard with active safety features, a... from High Gear Media Network Feed - October 28, 2020 at 10:13AM