Third-generation Kia Sorento set for European premiere at Paris motor show

2015 KIA Sorento

• European premiere on 2 October at Paris Motor Show
• Sophisticated new design for third-generation Kia Sorento SUV
• All-new bodyshell improves ride, handling and crash safety
• Improvements to NVH and a step-change in interior quality and design

September 29, 2014 - The all-new Kia Sorento will make its European premiere in Paris on 2 October, exhibiting a unique blend of style, practicality and technology, which builds on the success of the outgoing model. The new SUV's smoother, swept-back profile and deeply sculpted surfaces introduce a higher level of sophistication for the third-generation model, delivering a premium look and feel, with more space and numerous innovative features.

Continue reading ..

Enhanced Kia Venga to be revealed at Paris show

2015 KIA Venga

• Refreshed look for upgraded Kia Venga on car's fifth anniversary
• Compact MPV has a new face and more sophisticated cabin
• Enhanced Venga on sale in Europe from early 2015

September 29, 2014 - Five years after launching the Kia Venga, Kia will reveal an enhanced version of its popular compact MPV at the 2014 Paris Motor Show on 2 October. The refreshed model features a new-look front and rear, a more sophisticated cabin, new alloy wheels and an expanded range of options.

Continue reading ..

Enhanced Kia Rio set for Paris show world premiere

2015 KIA RIO

• Enhanced Kia Rio to be unveiled at 2014 Paris Motor Show
• B-segment Kia's makeover gives exterior and cabin a fresh appearance
• Enhanced Rio range on sale in Europe from early 2015

September 29, 2014 - Kia will celebrate the world premiere of an enhanced Kia Rio at the 2014 Paris Motor Show on 2 October, featuring a number of improvements to maintain the competitiveness of its global best-selling car.

Continue reading ..

2014 DTM : Mattias Ekström flies to victory in the dunes

2014 DTM - Zandvoort winner : Mattias Ekström -Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline - Audi RS 5 DTM

Swede Mattias Ekström was victorious in the ninth season round of the DTM at Zandvoort in The Netherlands and thus secured the first victory for Audi this season. In a thrilling closing stage of the race, the 36-year-old worked his way up through the field in an impressive way and claimed the lead. The two times’ champion finished ahead of the newly-crowned champion Marco Wittmann and Martin Tomczyk (both BMW), who were second and third respectively. “In the DTM, racing is always extremely hard and today was no exception. After all the bad luck of the past months, now, things were running perfectly for us at last. I enjoyed every lap of this race,” said a delighted Ekström after scoring his fourth DTM career win at Zandvoort.

Continue reading ..

All-new Honda Civic Type R: unrivalled against the brand's iconic performance flagship models

Honda Civic Type R -Concept II

• Unmatched performance compared to all previous Type R cars, including Civic, Integra, Accord and NSX
• Thrilling turbocharged 2.0 litre i-VTEC engine producing more than 280 PS, sets new standards on power, torque and engine response
• All-new ‘+R’ mode for enhanced on-track driving thrills
• High-revving performance red-lining at 7,000 rpm, mated to slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission
• Innovative new four-point adaptive damper system delivers ultimate handling for enthusiastic driving
• Additional ‘steer axis’ system minimises torque steer for exceptional traction
• Striking luminous blue Type R Concept model shown on Honda stand

September 29, 2014 - With the automotive world about to descend on the 2014 Mondial de l’Automobile, Honda has released exciting new details about its eagerly anticipated Civic Type R.

Continue reading ..

New Subaru Impreza gets new look, new refinements and now offers eyesight driver assist technology

2015 Subaru Impreza

Cherry Hill, N.J. -  Subaru of America, Inc., which has posted record-breaking sales every year for the past six years, has introduced a comprehensively upgraded Impreza line of compact 4-door and 5-door models for 2015. The Impreza joins the Legacy, Outback and Forester lines in offering the brand’s innovative, award-winning EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning.

Continue reading ..

World premiere of the new Golf Alltrack

2015 Volkswagen GOLF Alltrack

Volkswagen introduced the Passat Alltrack to close the gap between the on-road and off-road worlds. Now Volkswagen is transferring this concept to another vehicle class in the new Golf Alltrack. Europe's largest carmaker is celebrating the world premiere of this all-wheel drive model at the Mondial de l'Automobile in Paris (02 to 19 October). Technical and visual properties of the Golf Alltrack include a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, higher ground clearance, wheel arch mouldings and flared side sills that offer body protection, newly designed bumpers and many other independent exterior and interior features. Available power units are a petrol engine (TSI) and three diesel engines (TDI) – all are powerful turbocharged direct-injection units. The 1.8 TSI with an output of 132 kW / 180 PS is an entirely new addition to the Golf range. TDI versions of the Golf Alltrack will launch at these power levels: 81 kW / 110 PS (1.6 TDI), 110 kW / 150 (2.0 TDI) and 135 kW / 184 PS (2.0 TDI). The versions with 180 PS and 184 PS transfer their power to the all-wheel drive system via a 6-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) as standard.

Continue reading ..

The new Mercedes-AMG C 63: Powerful High-Performance Athlete

2015 Mercedes-AMG C 63s

AFFALTERBACH : September 24, 2014 - Pure fascination and breathtaking dynamics – the new Mercedes-AMG    C 63 sets benchmarks. The high-tech drive, the signature AMG handling and the high level of individuality in equipment choices guarantee an utterly unique driving experience. The top model in the C-Class line-up is driven by a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine closely related to the power unit that provides breathtaking propulsion in the Mercedes-AMG GT. The power spectrum ranges from 350 kW (476 hp) in the C 63 to 375 kW (510 hp) in the C 63 S. With an unrivalled fuel consumption figure of just 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined), the C 63 is the most fuel-efficient eight-cylinder car in the high-performance segment. The extensive range of standard equipment includes the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers, the mechanical rear locking differential and the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programmes. The highly exclusive “Edition 1” is available from market launch.

Continue reading ..

Openly sporty: the new Audi TT Roadster and the Audi TTS Roadster

2015 AUDI TT Roadster

• Compact roadster makes an impression with authentic design and dynamic driving properties
• Innovative Audi virtual cockpit replaces analog displays
• Board Member for Development Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg: “Further improved in-car technical experience”

INGOLSTADT : September 24, 2014 - Purity in its most beautiful form: Audi is presenting the new TT Roadster* and the TTS Roadster* at the Paris Motor Show. The compact two-seater sets new standards in design, drive, and suspension. A particular highlight in the third TT generation is the Audi virtual cockpit. For the first time, the digital instrument cluster provides all information within the driver’s field of vision – a concept that is causing a sensation. This has already led to the Audi TT’s new display and control system receiving the Car Connectivity Award and the honor of Interior Innovation of the Year at the Automotive Interiors Expo Awards.

Continue reading ..

Feasting the senses: Infiniti Q80 Inspiration

Infiniti Q80 Inspiration - Concept Car

• Infiniti unveils four-door concept that will lead to future model
• Q80 Inspiration embodies the invigorated Infiniti brand
• Fastback sedan showcases autonomy and powertrain technologies

HONG KONG / PARIS : September 23, 2014 – The Paris Auto Show is fast approaching, and companies are jockeying for position in the eye of a media storm.

Continue reading ..

World premiere of Volkswagen TRISTAR at the IAA

Volkswagen TRISTAR

• Concept car combines features of the current T model series, providing an outlook on future generations 
• 20-inch display, video conferencing system and espresso machine

HANNOVER : September 22, 2014 – Multifunctional like a Swiss Army knife. Variable, reliable and an all-rounder: on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the first Syncro concept car, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles presents the TRISTAR, an unprecedented combination of all the good features of the current T model series. Its extreme off-road capability combined with flexible transport and storage capacities make the TRISTAR the perfect service, transport or surf mobile, at your choice.  

  

Continue reading ..

Toyota to present New C-HR Crossover Concept at The Paris Motor Show

Toyota C-HR Concept

Toyota will unveil its new C-HR Concept at the Paris motor show, a vision for a hybrid-powered compact crossover that displays an emphatic new design language. The show car gives an early hint of a kind of vehicle Toyota would like to bring to market.

Continue reading ..

An attractive “dark figure” – the new ABT AS5 DARK

ABT AS5 DARK

Be it Batman or The Shadow: even heroes like dark clothes. The new ABT AS5 DARK is one of them and available as a Coupé or Sportback. Even without the optional ABT Power, the Bavarian styling package radiates superiority. “Designer Walter de’Silva is proud of his creation and rightly so – but as an AS5 DARK the Audi A5 is multifaceted and even more assertive“, says CEO Hans-Jürgen Abt: “And since we are offering the comprehensive re-design for a bargain price right now, it’s high time to visit your nearest ABT Partner.“

Continue reading ..

2014 Formula 1 : Hamilton wins Singapore Grand Prix

2014 Formula 1 - Singapore Grand Prix Winner : #44 Lewis Hamilton - Mercedes

• Hamilton wins despite safety car eroding lead
• Rosberg retires after electrical issue
• Vettel second and Ricciardo third ahead of Alonso and Massa

Lewis Hamilton won the Singapore Grand Prix and took the championship lead as team-mate Nico Rosberg retired early in the race.

Continue reading ..

Volvo reveals the all-new Volvo XC90 R-Design

2015 Volvo XC90 R-Design

• Volvo Cars has released the first images of the R-Design version of the all new XC90, aimed at buyers looking for a head-turner that radiates a truly sporty and dynamic look.

“R-Design is created for people with a passion for things that add spice to life,” said Alain Visser, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Customer Service of Volvo Car Group. “It appeals to customers that love active driving and a personal, expressive design. Every single R-Design detail is designed to contribute to the individualistic and refined expression these customers desire.”

Continue reading ..

The new BMW 518d & 520d

2015 BMW 518d Sedan

MUNICH : September 17, 2014 - New generation of four-cylinder diesel engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology increase the driving pleasure offered by the worldwide bestseller and achieve further reductions in fuel consumption and emissions – The new BMW 520d outclasses its segment rivals in the efficiency race: engine output rises to 140 kW/190 hp, average fuel consumption drops to as little as 4.1 l/100 km [68.9 mpg imp] and CO2 emissions to 109 g/km.

Continue reading ..

G-POWER M6 Gran Coupe 740 hp / 975 Nm

G-POWER M6 Gran Coupé

One of the world’s strongest BMW M6 Gran Coupé is made by G-POWER: The newly developed G-POWER Bi-Tronik in its 5th generation is increasing the power output of the BMW M6 Gran Coupé to awesome 740 hp (544 kW) and 975 Nm of torque.

Continue reading ..

Mazda begins production of All-new Mazda2 in Thailand

2015 Mazda2

HIROSHIMA, Japan : September 17, 2014 - Mazda Motor Corporation announced that production of the all-new Mazda2 (known as Mazda Demio in Japan) began today at its Thai production facility, Auto Alliance (Thailand) (AAT). The all-new Mazda2 currently being produced at AAT is bound for Australia.

Continue reading ..

Honda to exhibit prototype of New Jazz for Europe at Paris Motor Show

Honda JAZZ - Prototype : Euro Version

Today Honda has released the first images of the new Jazz prototype that will make its public debut next month at the 2014 Mondial de l‘Automobile in Paris.

Continue reading ..

Ford reveals All-new S-max: Trail-blazing sports activity vehicle reinvented with more style, tech and driving fun

2015 Ford S-MAX

• All-new Ford S-MAX debuting at the Paris Motor Show builds on the appeal of the original sports activity vehicle with space for seven to travel in style, and the agility and driving pleasure of a smaller car
• All-new S-MAX debuts Ford Adaptive Steering in Europe, and offers a 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol and revised 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engines to deliver improved CO₂ and class-leading driving dynamics
• Ford Dynamic LED Headlamps with Glare-Free Highbeam are made available for the first time; Pre-Collision Assist technology is first in segment
• All-new S-MAX offers 32 seating and loadspace combinations, and segment-first Easy-Fold second and third row seats
• Segment-first front Ford Multi-Contour Seats and dedicated rear climate system
•  Further convenience features include SYNC 2 voice-control connectivity system, Hands-Free Tailgate, and best-in-class stowage

BRENTWOOD, Essex,  September 17, 2014– Ford Motor Company today revealed the all-new Ford S‑MAX, a stylish and innovative reinvention of the trend-setting seven-seat sports activity vehicle.

Continue reading ..

McLAREN 650S Sprint to make competitive debut following confirmation of global race eligibility

McLAREN 650S Sprint

September 17, 2014 - The new 650S Sprint by McLaren GT is set for its global competitive premiere this weekend at the penultimate round of the GT Cup race at Donington Park, UK. The 650S Sprint is developed and optimised for the track, and eligibility has now been confirmed to race in the NARRA US GT series, the SCCA GT Championship and the UAE GT series. McLaren GT factory driver Rob Bell will be joined by German-based journalist Dale Lomas, for the weekend’s triple-header.

Continue reading ..

Bentley announces New Mulsanne Speed – The world’s fastest ultra-luxury driving experience

2015 Bentley Mulsanne Speed

• New Bentley flagship offering pinnacle of luxury and performance
• Legendary 6¾‑litre V8 engine advanced to deliver 1,100 Nm of torque and 13% more efficiency
• New sports suspension and steering creates tailored driving experience
• Assertive Speed styling with new exclusive and contemporary features

CREWE :  September 16, 2014 - Bentley redefines the fastest ultra-luxury driving experience in the world with a new pinnacle flagship. The new Mulsanne Speed is tailored for the driver, with 537 PS (530 bhp / 395 kW), 1,100 Nm (811 lb.ft) and selectable sports suspension and steering on demand.

Continue reading ..

Volkswagen Touareg with new design and new technologies: New 262 PS V6 TDI consumes just 6.6 l/100 km

2015 Volkswagen Touareg

The Touareg combines comfort and convenience features of a superior SUV with the all-terrain attributes of a sophisticated off-road vehicle. This configuration of the four-wheel drive Volkswagen sports utility vehicle, which doubles as a robust off-roader for any trip around the globe, gives it a fascination all of its own. Now, Volkswagen has given the Touareg a significantly sharper look and enhanced it technically in all areas. Features of the new Touareg generation include a redesigned front and rear, new driver assistance systems such as Automatic Post-Collision Braking System as standard, a new generation of the ACC adaptive cruise control, new online services, appreciably more fuel-efficient and in some cases more powerful V6 TDI engines with SCR catalytic converter and EU6 certification and an improved layout of the suspension.

Continue reading ..

Mercedes-Benz S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID: Efficiency = Performance

2015 Mercedes-Benz S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID

STUTTGART : September 15, 2014 - The new Mercedes-Benz S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID blends an ultramodern hybrid drive configuration with the unique innovations and the luxurious equipment and appointments of the S-Class. The luxury saloon with a long wheelbase impresses with exceptional dynamism and efficiency. Thanks to standard pre-entry climate control it also offers unique climate comfort. The first certified three-litre luxury saloon in the world is a further milestone on the road to emission-free mobility. The first S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID cars go to the customers this month.

Continue reading ..

2014 DTM : Wehrlein wins – Wittmann is champion

2014 DTM - Lausitzring winner : #25 Pascal Wehrlein 

(D, gooix Mercedes AMG, DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé)

KLETTWITZ : September 14, 2014 – The ‘young guns’ are firmly in control of the DTM: while 19-year-old Pascal Wehrlein (Mercedes-Benz) celebrated his maiden race win at the Lausitzring, BMW driver Marco Wittmann crowned himself with an early title win in the most popular international touring car series. “This is sensational, simply unbelievable. It was a difficult race, I had to keep myself out of all the battles. In the end, that was the key to winning the title. I first have to deal with all the emotions,” a visibly moved Wittmann commented. For the 24-year-old, sixth place in the race with his BMW M4 DTM was enough for an early decision in the battle for the title after eight of ten season rounds. In total, 58,000 fans attended the race weekend in the Lausitz region.

Continue reading ..

2014 WRC : Volkswagen is World Rally Champion again, courtesy of one-two-three in Australia

Volkswagen Motorsport  @ 2014 WRC Australian Rally

September 14, 2014 - 3..2..1, World Champion*! Volkswagen wrapped up the title in the Manufacturers’ Championship of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) with a one-two-three at the Rally Australia. With three rallies still remaining this season, the best result in the history of the team means Volkswagen can no longer be caught at the top of the overall standings. Winners in Australia, Sébastien Ogier/Julien Ingrassia (F/F), and team-mates Jari-Matti Latvala/Miikka Anttila, who finished runner-up down under, successfully defended the title in record time. This is the earliest in a season that a World Championship title has been won for 25 years. Andreas Mikkelsen/Ola Fløene (N/N) finished third in the final Polo R WRC to round off a perfect team result. The three Volkswagen crews also top the standings in the Drivers’ and Co-Drivers’ Championship. Ogier/Ingrassia and Latvala/Anttila will battle it out between themselves at the remaining three rallies to see who is crowned World Champion at the end of the season.

Continue reading ..

The new Mercedes-Benz B-Class: The pioneer in better shape than ever

2015 Mercedes-Benz B250

STUTTGART : September 12, 2014 - In terms of both design and technology, the second generation of the B-Class car has heralded a new compact class era at Mercedes-Benz. More than 350,000 of the sports tourer have been sold since the market launch in late 2011. Now the best-seller from Mercedes-Benz has undergone a major facelift including exterior and interior enhancements along with attractive, redefined design and equipment lines.

Continue reading ..

The new Mercedes-AMG GT : Driving performance for sports car enthusiasts

2015 Mercedes-AMG GT

AFFALTERBACH : The first Mercedes was a racing car, its most recent successor carries this heritage forward: with the new Mercedes-AMG GT, the Mercedes-AMG sports car brand is moving into a new, top-class sports car segment for the company. The GT is the second sports car developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. Its front mid-engine concept with transaxle and the intelligent aluminium lightweight construction form the basis for a highly dynamic driving experience. Its likewise newly developed AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine underscores the hallmark AMG driving performance. The first sports car engine with internally mounted turbochargers ('hot inside V') and dry sump lubrication is configured in two output ratings: as a GT with 340 kW (462 hp) and as a GT S with 375 kW (510 hp). The new GT combines driving dynamics and first-class racetrack performance with superb everyday practicality, and efficiency that sets new standards in the segment.

Continue reading ..

Dynamic world début of the new Mercedes-AMG GT

Dynamic world début of the new Mercedes-AMG GT

AFFALTERBACH : As exciting as crossing the finish line in a car race – that was how Mercedes-AMG presented its new GT V8 sports car this evening, the second vehicle to be entirely developed under its own direction. None other than current Formula 1 points leader Nico Rosberg piloted the breath-taking newcomer from the sports car brand of Mercedes-Benz onto the stage. The emotions ran high for around 400 international guests from the worlds of politics, business and the media, including AMG's founders Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher, as the Mercedes-AMG GT made its début in its birthplace. Previously, Bernd Schneider, five-time DTM champion and with 43 victories the most successful DTM driver of all time, presented a parade of the most famous vehicles from AMG's history.

Continue reading ..

Mazda unveils the all-new MX-5

All-New Mazda MX-5

• MKIV roadster shown to media at new event facility in Barcelona
• Latest model features a unique KODO design and SKYACTIV Technology
• Weight reduction puts the new Mazda MX-5 at a level comparable to the original model

Mazda revealed the all-new Mazda MX-5 this morning to an exclusive audience in Barcelona and simultaneously around the world at two similar events in Japan and the U.S. The MKIV model, which features a distinctive adaptation of the KODO – Soul of Motion design, received a very warm reception from around 250 media in attendance. It will go on sale in Europe in 2015.

Continue reading ..

The New BMW 2 Series Convertible

2015 BMW 235i Convertible

Extension of the new BMW 2 Series range; maximum dynamics in the premium compact segment now also available in Convertible form; the BMW 2 Series Convertible is the successor to the world’s most popular open-top premium model in this vehicle class (more than 130,000 units sold); systematic development of hallmark strengths of the BMW 1 Series Convertible in terms of driving dynamics, efficiency, agility, athletic elegance, emotion, comfort, functionality and intelligent networking; open-top driving experience of unmatched intensity thanks to typical BMW seat position and wide-opening top; rear-wheel drive – unique in the segment – ensures outstanding dynamics; market launch from February 2015 including BMW M Performance Automobile BMW M235i Convertible.

Continue reading ..

2014 Formula 1 : Lewis Hamilton recovered from a poor start to win the Italian Grand Prix

2014 Formula 1 - Italian GP Winner : Lewis Hamilton, #44 Mercedes

• Pole-sitter Hamilton fourth after first lap
• Rosberg yields lead by running wide at Turn 1
• Massa gets first podium for Williams as Alonso retires

Lewis Hamilton recovered from a poor start to win the Italian Grand Prix as Nico Rosberg made a mistake while leading.

Continue reading ..

Worldwide sales of Suzuki Swift reach four million units

2014 Suzuki SWIFT

September 3, 2014 - Suzuki Motor Corporation’s compact car Swift, which was launched as a world strategic model in 2004, has reached cumulative worldwide sales of four million units in August 2014 (nine years and nine months since the start of sales in 2004).

Continue reading ..

Land Rover Launches 'Galactic Discovery' Competition

Land Rover Launches 'Galactic Discovery' Competition

• Four aspiring adventurers will win a trip to space with launch of Land Rover's 'Galactic Discovery' competition
• Adventurers Sir Richard Branson, Bear Grylls, Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Virginia McKenna help launch Land Rover's trip of a lifetime to celebrate debut of New Discovery Sport
• New compact SUV is premiered through online video, filmed at Spaceport America, the home of Virgin Galactic
• Global competition expected to attract thousands of entries from over 40 countries

September 3, 2014 - Four friends are set to win a once-in-a-lifetime trip to space with Land Rover's Galactic Discovery  competition, a ground-breaking on-line search for a group of aspiring astronauts to go on the ultimate adventure.

Continue reading ..