Thursday 30 November 2017

CARSCOOPS

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It Took 600,000 Lego Bricks To Build This Full-Size Renault F1 Car

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 04:03 AM PST


Stop by Renault's flagship showroom in Paris and you'll not only see an array of the French automaker's vehicles, but this full-size Lego replica of the company's Formula One racing car.

The 17'8"-long model took some 600,000 bricks to fabricate, and was topped off by actual tires, seat, and steering wheel used by the real RS17 on track.

The display at L'Atelier Renault forms the first stage in a partnership penned between Lego and the carmaker, launched on the occasion of the latter's 40th anniversary in F1.

Saturday, December 9 will feature a full day of festivities for the kids, including face-painting, photo opportunities, free balloons, and workshops to show fans how to make stop-motion movies with their Lego creations and even make a miniature F1 car to take home.

Further activities are planned throughout the next month and year ahead as Renault and Lego seek to make good on their new partnership.

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New Toyota FT-AC Concept Is A Macho Sub-Compact SUV For Adventurers

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 03:48 AM PST


Toyota has revealed the Future Toyota Adventure Concept (FT-AC) at the LA Auto Show, a design study aiming at people looking for a proper rugged but small crossover.

Described as a design study for now, the new Toyota FT-AC is imagined as a gasoline-powered SUV with an advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, and the company adding that it could switch to a next-generation hybrid system.

"FT-AC is perfect for those outdoor enthusiasts who want to dial up the adventure on their weekend getaways," said Jack Hollis, group vice president and general manager, Toyota division. "No matter the roads, the activities, or the people, FT-AC sparks authentic fun and conversation."

The new concept comes with chunky tires, wide fender extensions and a generous ground clearance, and if that's not enough, a big roof rack with LED lights on it along with twin recovery hooks and skidplates both front and rear are there to showcase the off-road character of Toyota's latest creation.

The FT-AC's all-wheel drive system is controlled via variable terrain-response settings and by locking the torque split for maximum grip. There's also an integrated bike rack at the rear which can be securely hidden in "only a few seconds" according to Toyota.

Toyota has been showcasing small crossover concepts based on their latest global T-NGA platform to measure the crowd's response; last April it revealed the FT-4X concept at the NY Auto Show while last October in Tokyo it showed the TJ Cruiser.

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Mopar's Ready To Kit Out Your New Wrangler

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 03:26 AM PST


If you looked at the new Jeep Wrangler and wondered how you'd customize it, you're not alone. In fact the manufacturer says that 98 percent of buyers spec at least one Mopar product on their Wranglers. And it's not missing a beat in meeting the demands of those customers.

Hot on the heels of the all-new Wrangler's debut at the LA Auto Show, Mopar has released an array of over 200 components designed specifically for it, offering customers a staggering range of customization options.

Far too extensive to list here in full, the catalog includes everything from auxiliary lighting to floor mats. For the first time, Mopar's offering a roof rack for carrying outdoor sports equipment (like bikes and skis), and a host of accessories for the new Wrangler's Trail Rail storage system, from a fold-out table to an emergency first-aid kit.

Planning some serious off-roading? Mopar can hook you up with 17-inch beadlock wheels, a 2-inch lift kit, Warn winch, and special off-road bumpers. But even the less hard-core will be served by options like fabric tops for when the roof is removed, optional hood graphics, fuel doors, floor mats... the list goes on and on, ranging in price from $15 for an infotainment screen protector to $1,595 for the winch kit.

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The Jaguar F-Pace SVR Is Coming, And It'll Probably Look Like This

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 03:01 AM PST


With all the spy shots we've seen already, it's an open secret that Jaguar is working on an F-Pace SVR. And this is probably pretty close to what it will look like.

Rendered by Russian designer Nikita Aksyonov, these images give us a taste of the forthcoming performance version of Jaguar's debut crossover, amped up with all manner of go-fast upgrades.

Just look at that deep air dam, the vents in the hood, those oversized lightweight alloys, that big diffuser with the quartet of tailpipes popping out.

Of course, the F-Pace SVR will be more about what's under the hood – and what it'll be capable of doing – than how it looks. And we're expecting big things: namely, Jaguar's celebrated 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine, likely in the latest 575-horsepower state of tune as we've seen in the F-Type SVR and XJR575.

That'd give it some serious performance credentials to take on the likes of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S and Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio – both of which offer over 500 horsepower – to say nothing of the Audi SQ5 and BMW X3 M40i.

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Audi To Build Two New Electric SUVs In Germany From 2021

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 01:33 AM PST


Audi has revealed that it will build two all-electric SUV models in Germany from 2021.

The car manufacturer has previously stated that the upcoming E-Tron Quattro and E-Tron Sportback will be constructed in Brussels, Belgium but for its following two electric SUVs, the decision has been made to build them in Ingolstadt, Germany.

Audi has failed to provide specifics about these two future SUV models but has said they will be just a pair of no less than 20 electrified models being launched by 2025, ten of which will be fully-electric.

It is believed that the upcoming Audi E-Tron Quattro will be based on a new platform built with Porsche specifically for electric vehicles. It, therefore, seems probable that this same architecture will be used by the carmaker's two other electric SUVs.

Audi made the announcement of the two new models while announcing the extension of job security in Ingolstadt until 2025.

"We have long been fighting for a job guarantee up until the end of 2025. Our colleagues need that certainty, and that is something we can now finally give them," General Works Council chairman Peter Mosch said.

"That is why specifically the decision on the two new all-electric SUVs is another milestone on our road to a secure future," he added.

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Hyundai Workers Resume Kona Production In South Korea

Posted: 30 Nov 2017 12:02 AM PST


Production of the Hyundai Kona has resumed in South Korea following a two-day long workers strike.

Hyundai originally intended on increasing output of the Kona and building it on a second assembly line at a domestic factory. However, workers were concerned that this move could result in job losses due to the automaker's desire to add more automation to the production line and outsourcing work to parts manufacturers.

In protesting against the proposed changes, workers at the factory disrupted the production of roughly 1,230 Kona models.

For now, Hyundai has halted its plans to increase Kona production and doesn't believe the delay will affect the vehicle's arrival in the U.S. in the first quarter of 2018.

Hyundai is currently in talks with the labor union to come to an amicable solution, Auto News reports.

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BMW's M SUVs Could Get Competition Package Variants

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 08:42 PM PST


BMW isn't opposed to offering a Competition Package for its M-branded SUV models, including the X5 M and X6 M.

During an interview with Auto Guide on the floor of the LA Auto Show, BMW M boss Frank van Meel said the popularity of Competition Package variants of other M models means the firm's SUVs could get the same treatment.

"Well Competition is a strong growing market in demand, and that goes for every M. So that's also a feature we're going to use more often in the future. And that does not exclude SUVs," van Meel said.

BMW first introduced its Competition Package to the previous-generation M5 and M6 a few years ago. Since then, both the BMW M3 and M4 have been offered in Competition Package guise and both models have proven popular.

If the company does decide to equip one of its M models with the same performance upgrades, it would likely do so on the next-generation X5, tipped to arrive in 2018. Like other Competition Package-equipped models, it could receive engine modifications, suspension tweaks, and new branding.

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Lexus Dealers Want The Production-Spec UX In The U.S.

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 08:03 PM PST


Lexus dealerships in the United States want the Japanese carmaker to sell the impending production-spec UX locally.

Lexus first revealed its intent to bring the eye-catching UX to the market earlier this year but since then, little has been made about the vehicle. However, during a discussion with Motor 1 at the LA Auto Show, Lexus general manager Jeff Bracken said local dealerships want the vehicle as a new entry-level model.

"It's something that our consumers are looking for. Our dealers are all over us to produce that concept vehicle. We are in the process of helping our company understand what we're leaving on the table. So it's laser focused and stay tuned," he confirmed.

If the UX were to land in U.S. shores, it would fill the void left behind by the CT200h hybrid hatchback.

Lexus reportedly holds trademarks for the names UX 200, UX 250, and UX 250h in the United States, indicating that it is seriously considering local sales of the vehicle. A starting price of just over $30,000 would be likely.

The Lexus UX Crossover Concept was first unveiled at last year's Paris Auto Show, teasing a small crossover to slot below the NX and rival the Audi Q2.

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VW To Spend $3.5 Billion On Factory Upgrades For Next-Gen Golf

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 07:29 PM PST


Volkswagen will invest 3 billion euros ($3.5 billion) at its Wolfsburg production facility in preparation for its eighth-generation Golf.

In a statement, the automaker said the investment will be funnelled towards re-tooling the factory and constructing a new design center in the technical development area.

VW made the announcement on the eve of the annual works meeting in Wolfsburg. According to chairman of the Group and General Works Council, Bernd Osterloh, the investment will help secure the company's long-term future.

"The Supervisory Board has approved billions in investment for the Volkswagen brand in new products and in our plants. This means our future is secure – regardless of whether it is under electric or conventional propulsion. We will hold our own in the vanguard of the automotive industry," he said.

The new VW Golf will probably launch in 2019 and be underpinned by a modified version of the MQB platform used by the current car. More importantly, the car will adopt electrification, potentially even in GTI guise. Consequently, the new car won't only be more powerful than the outgoing model but also promises to be more fuel efficient and emit fewer emissions.

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EPA Confirms 310 Mile Range For Tesla Model 3

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 07:02 PM PST


The EPA has finally detailed the official range of the Tesla Model 3, the electric automaker's first affordable EV.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the long-range variant of the Model 3 has a combined range of 310 miles (499 km), exactly the same figure as quoted by Tesla at the vehicle's delivery event in July.

In the city, Model 3 Long Range owners can expect to travel 321.9 miles (518 km) on a single charge and 295.5 miles (476 km) on the highway.

Alongside confirming the vehicle's range, the EPA has given the range-topping Model 3 a combined 126 MPGe rating, calculated from 131 MPGe in the city and 120 MPGe on the highway. This places the Model S Long Range below the 136 MPGe of the Hyundai Ioniq Electric but above the 119 MPGe of the Chevrolet Bolt and the 118 MPGe of the BMW i3.

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Maserati Levante And Quattroporte Receive 'Nerissimo' Package In LA

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 06:01 PM PST


Back in April, Maserati premiered the Ghibli Nerissimo in New York. Fast forward to November's LA Auto Show and the Italian marque has announced a Nerissimo package for the Levante and Quattroporte as well.

Like the Ghibli Nerissimo, the Levante and Quattroporte Nerissimo combine Nero black paint with Black Chrome accents on the front grille, trunk, side air vents, trident logo, and the Maserati badges across the exterior. Additionally, the window surrounds, exhaust tips, and vertical grille bars are all bathed in black.

Beyond the release of the Nerissimo package in Los Angeles, Maserati has used the show to display the 2018 model year Ghibli and Levante, now sold in GranLusso and GranSport trims.

The GranSport line aims to cater towards owners looking for a sportier-than-usual experience with their Maserati. By comparison, the GranLusso trim includes Ermenegildo Zegna silk or full premium Italian leather upholstery as well as wood trim throughout the cabin.

Another small announcement made by Maserati in LA is that electric power steering has replaced the hydraulic power steering system of the Ghibli, Quattroporte, and Levante.

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New Lincoln Nautilus Celebrated On Film

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 05:40 PM PST


Lincoln have started changing the nomenclature of their models, with the first one to arrive with a new moniker being the updated MKX, aka Nautilus.

Unveiled at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show, the premium midsize SUV is being celebrated on film, where the Ford-owned brand uses words such as "beauty meets serenity" to describe it.

Regardless if you're a fan of its exterior design, with a front end that's similar to the Lincoln Continental, new tail lamps joined together by a lights strip, and generously-sized wheels, the carmaker will start rolling out the first units next year, as it's scheduled to arrive at dealers nationwide in mid-2018.

Customers can choose between the three distinctive exterior and interior themes, sold under the Black Label moniker, including the Chalet, Thoroughbred, and Gala, with the latest one being shown in the SUV's official launch film.

Moreover, they will also have to decide whether the entry-level 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is the one to go for, with 245hp, or if the larger 2.7-liter unit, rated at 335hp, is the smart choice. Both of them are paired to an 8-speed automatic gearbox and get standard stop/start tech.

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Mazda Vision Coupe Could Convince Americans To Buy Sedans Again

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 05:17 PM PST


Fresh off its global premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show, the eye-catching Mazda Vision Coupe has made its U.S. debut at the LA Auto Show.

Although Mazda has yet to say whether or not it intends to bring the Vision Coupe into production, its gorgeous design has dropped jaws in Los Angeles and looks to be the perfect recipe for a large and luxurious sports sedan from the company.

The Vision Coupe showcases Mazda's evolved Kodo design language and aims to strip away any unnecessary exterior components that could make its design somewhat fussy. Instead, Mazda designers have found inspiration from simple things, including Samurai swords.

Like the exterior, the cabin is also very minimalist and features a center console void of almost any buttons or switches. The three-spoke steering wheel is also free of a single button. The gauge cluster is quite traditional with three round gauges showing all the vital information.

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Jeep Boss Confirms New Wrangler Plug-In Hybrid In LA

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 04:56 PM PST


Following the unveiling of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler at the LA Auto Show, head of Jeep, Mike Manley, has confirmed that the new Wrangler will be offered with a plug-in hybrid powertrain in 2020.

Unfortunately, the automaker has failed to provide any specifics about the model, including any possible fuel economy numbers. We don't even know if the model will launch for the 2020 model year or during the 2020 calendar year.

If we were to have a guess, we'd be inclined to say that the Wrangler's hybrid system will probably share components with Fiat Chrysler's only other plug-in hybrid, a fuel-efficient variant of the Chrysler Pacifica. That vehicle features a 16 kWh battery and has a combined rating of 84 mpg.

Beyond the hybrid setup, another impending powertrain for the latest-generation Wrangler will be a 3.0-liter V6 diesel. It will return approximately 30 mpg on the highway and arrive shortly after sales of the 2.0-liter turbo and 3.6-liter V6 models commence.

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Ampere Motor's New $9,900 Electric Three-Wheeler Roadster

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 04:36 PM PST


California is one of the largest markets for electric vehicles in the United States so it comes as little surprise that Ampere Motor decided to use the Los Angeles Auto Show to introduce a prototype of their upcoming roadster called the 1.

Described as an ideal vehicle for city commuting or weekend fun, the roadster is a three-wheel electric vehicle from a startup that says it consists of "highly experienced car designers, engineers, and race drivers."

The car is still in the prototype phase but the company says it's about 80% ready for mass production. Given the situation, it's not surprising that details are extremely limited. However, the company revealed the car rides on a tubular chassis and features a double wishbone suspension as well as "carbon kevlar belt powertrain."

Motivation comes from an electric motor that powered by an undisclosed battery. It will reportedly enable the model to have a range of up to 100 miles (160 km) on a single charge.

Ampere says the roadster will only cost $9,900 and will be launched next year. The company is accepting pre-orders for $200 and says additional information will be released shortly.

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2018 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate Black Edition Brings The Bling To LA

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 04:43 PM PST


The crossover and SUV trend continues in Los Angeles as GMC has unveiled the 2018 Yukon Denali Ultimate Black Edition.

Set to become the most luxurious Yukon Denali ever offered, the Ultimate Black Edition features a modestly revised exterior with chrome mirror caps and 22-inch two-tone alloy wheels. The model will be available exclusively in Onyx Black and all will feature a polished exhaust tip.

Interior changes are virtually non-existent as GMC says the only modification is the addition of premium carpeted floor mats. However, the model comes equipped with the Open Road Package which includes a power sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and an adaptive cruise control system with forward automatic braking. The package also adds power retractable side steps and an Enhanced Security Package which includes glass breakage sensors and interior motion detectors.

The Yukon Denali Ultimate Black Edition is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine that develops 420 hp (313 kW) and 460 lb-ft (621 Nm) of torque. The engine is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission which can send power to an optional four-wheel drive system.

In a statement, GMC's Stu Pierce said "The Yukon Denali has always made a bold and powerful statement, and the Ultimate Black Edition takes that expression to a new level." He went on to say the model is ideal for customers who want to "express themselves with a new and unique style."

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New Volvo XC40 Starts At $35,200, But You Can Also Subscribe For $600 A Month

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 04:09 PM PST


Volvo is entering the booming compact crossover segment with the all-new XC40.

Currently on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the 2019 XC90 rides on the company's new Compact Modular Architecture and features a stylish design that recalls the larger XC60 and XC90.

The interior isn't as luxurious as its larger counterparts but the model features a leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum trim, and an automatic climate control system. Other highlights include a power driver's seat, an eight-speaker audio system, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

A variety of options will be available including heated front seats, a wireless smartphone charger, and a Harman Kardon audio system. Other options include ambient lighting and a power folding second row seat.

At launch, the XC40 will be offered in the States with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 247 hp (184 kW) and 258 lb-ft (349 Nm) of torque. It is backed up by an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel drive system. The model will eventually be offered with additional powertrains including electric and hybrid options.

The XC40 will go on sale in the United States next spring and it will be available via purchase, lease, or subscription. The base model starts at $35,200 and a 36 month lease will begin at $325 per month with a $3,000 down payment.

The subscription is a bit more complex as pricing starts at $600 per month before taxes and registration fees. The base subscription model comes nicely equipped with the Premium and Vision packages as well as heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The model also includes a panoramic roof and 19-inch alloy wheels.

While the 24 month subscription costs significantly more than the lease payment, it includes an annual 15,000-mile allowance, all factory-scheduled maintenance, and insurance. Customers can also swap out their XC40 for another model after just 12 months.

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2019 Infiniti QX50 Fires Warning Shot At Premium Compact SUV Segment

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 03:41 PM PST


Infiniti brought their 2019 QX50 to the LA Auto Show in order to showcase its dynamic lines and stylish interior, hoping it can go on to challenge the likes of the Mercedes GLC or the new BMW X3.

The new QX50 is built on an all-new platform, featuring a FWD-based layout, meant to make it one of the most refined, sporty and spacious crossovers in its segment.

"The 2019 QX50 is the most important vehicle we have ever launched, and it embodies everything the brand stands for: Beautiful design, advanced technology and empowering performance," said Infiniti's global VP, Christian Meunier.

Carrying such a heavy torch requires a strong power unit, which is why the Japanese automaker fitted the all-new QX50 with the world's first production-ready variable compression ratio engine, combining the power of a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol unit with the torque and fuel efficiency of a four-cylinder diesel - at least that's how Infiniti sees it.

While no straight line performance figures have been released, we do know the engine puts down 268 HP (272 PS) and 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) of torque, with the help of an XTRONIC CVT.

As standard, buyers can purchase the QX50 with front wheel drive, as the AWD system costs extra.

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2018 Hyundai Kona Wants To Give Nissan Kicks A Run For Its Money

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 03:56 PM PST


The US-spec Hyundai Kona made its debut at this year's LA Auto Show, bringing its quirky looks to a segment that appears to be growing by the second these days.

The exterior styling remains pretty much unchanged, meaning a compact muscular shape defined by its plastic cladding on the sides and the unusual headlight setup, making the new Hyundai Kona a very different proposition indeed.

Based on a brand-new platform, the Hyundai Kona is designed to offer good ground clearance, generous interior space and a commanding driving position. The underfloor layout is optimized to reduce central tunnel intrusion. The optional all-wheel drive system is also cleverly packaged.

Customers in the U.S. will be offered two choices: an entry-level 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol than runs on the Atkinson cycle and produces 147hp and 132lb-ft of torque and the turbocharged 1.6-liter with direct injection which makes 175hp and 195lb-ft of torque. 2.0-liter models are paired to a six-speed automatic while the more powerful turbocharged Konas are fitted with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Hyundai claims that the Kona was developed to offer "enhanced driving dynamics and responsive performance". Front-wheel drive models get a rear torsion beam suspension while all-wheel drive ones are fitted with a multi-link rear.

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist along with Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are part of the Hyundai Kona's available safety kit.

The interior features an eight-inch infotainment system with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as Sirius XM Radio, HD Radio and Blue Link LTE connectivity services. There's also a wireless charging pad for smartphones, a heads-up display and more.

The 2018 Hyundai Kona will arrive at dealers in the first quarter of 2018, with pricing details to be announced closer to its market launch.

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New Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Lands In LA With A $23,295 Price Tag

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 03:45 PM PST


Joining the likes of the Outlander Sport and Outlander in Mitsubishi's CUV lineup for the U.S. market is the all-new 2018 Eclipse Cross, with a starting MSRP of $23,295.

This price tag is married to the base spec ES version, which is joined in the lineup by the LE, SE and SEL. Standard features on the ES include heated power mirrors, a rear spoiler, color display, Bluetooth, rear view camera, cruise control and climate control.

Moving up the range will take you to the Limited Edition (LE) trim, featuring 18" alloys and unique black color exterior accents. This trim level also has a 7" display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Meanwhile, the SE trim includes BSW, RCTA, LCA, heated front seats, fast-key passive entry with push button start, electronic parking brake with auto hold, 18" two-tone alloys and silver, chrome and gloss black exterior accents.

As for the top of the line SEL trim, it boasts additional features such as leather seats, LED headlights, a Head-Up display and a Multi-View camera system. Buyers can also spec the SEL version with Mitsubishi's Touring Package, which then adds the dual-pane power sliding panoramic sunroof, a 710-watt Rockford-Fosgate premium audio system, more safety tech (FCM, LDW, ACC, AHB), plus a heated steering wheel and rear seats.

Scheduled to arrive in U.S. dealerships in March 2018 and currently showcased at the 2017 LA Auto Show, the Eclipse Cross is also debuting Mitsubishi's CONNECT vehicle service program (standard on SE trim levels and above), featuring the Safeguard services package and the Remote services package.

The former brings Automatic Collision Notification, SOS Emergency Assistance, Information Assistance, Roadside Assistance, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Alarm Notification and Mileage Tracker, while the latter offers Remote Climate Control, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Remote Horn, Remote Lights, Car Finder, Vehicle Settings, and Parental Controls (Geo Fence, Speed Alert and Curfew Alert).

Sexy Jaguar XF Sportbrake Quenches Our Wagon Thirst, But At A Price

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 02:33 PM PST


Jaguar has embraced crossovers with the E- and F-Pace but that hasn't stopped the company from introducing the XF Sportbrake in Los Angeles.

Set to compete with the Mercedes E-Class Estate, the XF Sportbrake is a stylish station wagon that features LED headlights and a long sloping roof. The model also has a dual exhaust system and low profile roof rails that can hold approximately 220 lbs (100 kg) of accessories such as skis and snowboards.

The interior echos the sedan but the Sportbrake is distinguished by a larger luggage compartment that can hold 31.7 cubic feet (897 liters) of cargo. When the split folding rear seats are lowered, the cargo capacity climbs to 69.7 cubic feet (1,973 liters).

The standard model comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display but there's an optional InControl Touch Pro system with a 10-inch display. Other options include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a panoramic glass sunroof, and a 17-speaker Meridian audio system. Customers can also order interior mood lighting and an air purification system which promises to neutralize odors and remove bacteria.

At launch, the wagon will be offered exclusively with a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces 380 hp (283 kW) and 332 lb-ft (449 Nm) of torque. It is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel drive system. This setup allows the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds.

The XF Sportbrake will go on sale later this year and pricing starts at $70,450.

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For $20,000 Less Than A Bentayga, You Can Have A 2018 Range Rover SVAutobiography

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 02:16 PM PST


Displayed in Los Angeles, the facelifted Range Rover SVAutobiography has all the right ingredients to make you forget about the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

It's large, good-looking, and extremely well equipped, with its generous features that include hot stone massage function, with heated calf and foot rests, for the individual rear seats, and rear entertainment system with two 10-inch displays.

Sitting at the rear gives you over 4 feet (1.2m) of legroom in the 2018 Range Rover SVAutobiography as well as access to a small refrigerator that can keep two wine or champagne bottles cool, and to the center console that can be used to control a number of features. You'll never be late anywhere either, thanks to the Zenith clock, just don't ask how much it costs, though.

And since we're talking numbers, you may want to take a seat before reading about its starting price: $207,900 in USA, and that's before checking out the options list. For those of you counting, that's about $20,000 less than a base Bentley Bentayga.

Some might say that the 2018 Range Rover SVAutobiography is 'a lot of car' for the money, but we have a feeling that this is only the beginning, as even more extravagant and expensive SUVs will likely arrive in the coming years. After all, where there's a will, there's a way, right?

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BMW Considers Turning Mini Into All-Electric Brand For The U.S.

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 01:48 PM PST


BMW might turn Mini into an all-electric brand in the U.S. and is currently seeking partners to lower the cost of doing so.

The news came straight from Peter Schwarzenbauer, BMW board member and Mini's boss who said that Mini could become an all-electric brand, aimed at urban customers. An all-electric Mini model is expected to debut in 2019.

BMW is currently talking to many automakers around the world about a prospective partnership on electrifying smaller cars, according to Reuters.

Building smaller electric cars is challenging, not only because of the financial costs involved but also because of packaging as the fitment of batteries that provide sufficient range into a smaller platform still remains a puzzle, according to Schwarzenbauer.

Mini sales in the U.S. have decreased by 10 percent through October as demand for smaller cars is weakening in favor of SUVs. "It's really only in the U.S. where we are facing this with Mini," Schwarzenbauer said.

BMW will not attempt to fix this problem by adding bigger SUV models under the Mini brand but instead they're looking into how to re-invent the brand. "The way for Mini in the U.S. is ... building the Mini brand in the direction of the electric urban mobility company", he added.

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SVX V8 Is The Ultimate Land Rover Discovery For Off-Roading And It's Coming In 2018

Posted: 29 Nov 2017 01:34 PM PST


Land Rover has introduced the Discovery SVX concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Designed to preview a production model that will be launched next year, the Discovery SVX was created by Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations to be the ultimate off-roader.

 As a result, the model has been equipped with skid plates, recovery hooks, and an integrated rear winch. The model also features an LED light bar, modified bumpers, and 20-inch alloy wheels with Goodyear all-terrain tires.

Thankfully the changes are more than cosmetic as engineers installed an upgraded four-wheel drive system with locking center and rear differentials. The SVO team also added a bespoke air suspension, long-travel dampers, and revised knuckles. The company says these changes help to improve the Discovery's approach, departure, and breakover angles.

Rounding out the off-road features are an optimized Terrain Response 2 system and a Hydraulic Active Roll Control system which helps to improve wheel articulation, body control, and off-road traction.

While the exterior changes are pretty dramatic, the cabin only sees minor revisions. These include a pistol-grip shifter and two-tone seats with Rush Orange accents and perforated "X" logos.

Last but not least, the Discovery SVX features a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces 525 PS (386 kW) and 625 Nm (461 lb-ft) of torque.

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