World Car Blog
Meet the latest generation Honda Civic
The all-new Honda CIVIC: HEV saw the light of day! The representative of the 11th generation of this legendary compact car, with 50 years of heritage behind it, combines strong performance and efficiency with high comfort and visual attractiveness. This Honda novelty will be available on the Serbian market in the fall of this year.
By implementing e: HEV drive technology on this model as well, Honda officially achieves the set goal, which includes electrification of all its key European models by the end of 2022.
The new design brings an elegant note with a sporty silhouette achieved by lowering the hood line by 25mm compared to the previous generation, while the glass surface has been increased to make the car’s interior more airy.
Compared to previous generations of the CIVIC, the base of the A-pillar has been shifted and aligned with the center of the front wheels, giving the car a more balanced proportion in profile. The highest point of the roof has been moved forward (compared to the previous model) with a slight slope towards the tailgate, which provides a more elegant impression.
Despite the new aesthetic approach, Honda remains consistent in practicality and focused on the needs of drivers, so the interior is more comfortable and spacious, and new production technology has reduced the weight of the CIVIC by 20%.
The horizontal control panel emphasizes the width and comfort of the interior, with high-quality materials used in the production of interior elements.
The all-new CIVIC offers an intuitive infotainment system that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android and allows for continuous passenger connectivity while driving. To further enhance the passenger experience, the Elegance and Sport equipment packages contain eight and the Advance 12 premium BOSE speakers.
Honda's proven: HEV powertrain technology is offered as standard and involves the use of a new 72-cell lithium-ion battery and two compact, powerful electric motors paired with the newly developed 2.0-liter direct-injection engine (Atkinson cycle).
By combining, the drive unit delivers a maximum motor power of 135 kW and 315 Nm of torque.
Honda's novelty has four driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport and Individual, which the driver adjusts as needed. This car has the task of achieving CO2 emissions lower than 110g / km which is less than 5l / 100km on WLTP testing.
The latest-generation Honda CIVIC features a newly designed front seat body stabilization structure, providing greater comfort for passengers.
This model comes with an advanced SENSING package of safety features that make driving safer. The new front camera and 100-degree view, as well as advanced recognition technology, increase the CIVIC’s capacity to identify pedestrians, road lines, and other road users.
For the first time, the all-new CIVIC is equipped with sonar sensors (four front and four rear), and occupant safety is more certain with an improved anti-collision brake system, lane keeping assistance, low-speed braking control, information on blind spot, cross-traffic control and more.
Combining sophisticated and impeccable exterior design, airy interior and advanced driver safety system, the all-new Honda CIVIC is the perfect blend of economy and enviable performance, making it the most efficient and safest CIVIC model to date.
Lamborghini will build an additional 15 Aventadors due to the fire on the cargo ship
What was considered a possible scenario has now received official confirmation, as Lamborghini has announced that it will restart production of the Aventador model to replace the 15 Ultimae series cars that burned and sank along with the cargo ship Felicity Ace.
It is a ship that was transporting more than 4,000 vehicles from the Volkswagen Group, and which caught fire while sailing in the Atlantic Ocean. Despite rescue efforts, the fire spread, and the ship eventually sank and ended up at the bottom of the ocean. There were 85 Lamborghini cars on board, most of which were Urus SUVs.
However, the ship also carried 15 Aventadorams, and Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann confirmed that the company would restart production of the V12-powered supercar to make up for the losses. Lost copies of the Aventador Ultimae were on their way to US customers.
The remaining lost cars belong to models that are still in production, so Lamborghini will not have too many difficulties to replace them.
It is unknown at this time what he will do after leaving the post. The new hybrid V12 machine is in the final phase of testing.
The Felicity Ace ship carried a variety of cars, with a total value of about $ 401 million.
2022 Kia EV6 AWD GT-Line First Test: Getting Sideways in Kia’s SUV-ish EV
Kia’s sporty electric SUV is long on sporty, short on SUV.
Hey," we said to the MotorTrend test team as it pulled its instruments off the 2022 Kia EV6. "You guys all have something on your face. Something really odd-looking. Goodness gracious, are those … smiles?"
Sure enough, the EV6 had elicited that rare sign of positive emotion among our jaded testers, and for much the same reason its platform mate, the Hyundai Ioniq 5, earned that same infrequent accolade. Given free rein from its electronic nannies, it turns out the Kia EV6 likes to go sideways—earlier and even more so than the Hyundai does.
Unexpected Results At The Test Track
"Wow, I was not expecting this," road test editor Chris Walton said. "Well, I was halfway expecting it because we noticed the rear weight bias [49/51 front/rear]. But I wasn't expecting entry and midcorner oversteer." While the Ioniq 5 showed signs of a willingness to rotate as it careened around the skidpad, the EV6, with its 4-inch-shorter wheelbase, proved to be even friskier than the Hyundai. Walton was so intrigued that he attempted to drift the all-wheel-drive EV6 all the way around the circle, but its front motor kept straightening the car out. "I tried to do the entire skidpad sideways, but I only got about a third of the way around." (The Hyundai, which began to straighten later, drifted through two-thirds.)
We noticed the same tail-happy behavior = on our public-road test loop: Push the EV6 hard into a corner, and it leads from the back. Which is not to imply you should avoid following Kia EV6s for fear that one will suddenly spin out in front of you—the EV6 has decent grip, generating 0.89 g on the skidpad before Walton decided to do his pro drifter impersonation. Its stability control system will prevent tail-wagging when fully on and curtail it before it gets out of hand in partial-off mode. Nothing dangerous here—just good old-fashioned unleash-the-teenager-within fun.
"It's a back-to-basics car, surprisingly," Walton said. "You have to get all the braking done before starting the turn-in. It hates trail-braking. The steering is a little lifeless, but it's very precise and intuitive. It doesn't feel like the heavy car [4,693 pounds on our scales] that it is." The EV6's figure-eight time of 25.9 seconds at 0.71 g further highlighted its dynamic bona fides, a number just 0.2 second behind that of the Hyundai.
How Quick Is The 2022 Kia EV6?
For our acceleration test, we were curious to see how the EV6 stacks up against both the Ioniq 5 and the Tesla Model Y, the current benchmark by which dual-motor E-crossovers are measured. With 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque to motivate itself, the EV6 sprinted to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, a tenth slower than the slightly lighter Hyundai but with similar acceleration characteristics. Even with traction control off, the test team reported that the EV6's launch was drama-free with no wheelspin. While its acceleration didn't feel quite as dramatic as the 2020 Model Y Dual Motor Long Range we tested at 4.1 seconds to 60, unlike many other EVs, the EV6's power doesn't feel as though it trails off at higher speeds. That said, the quarter-mile came up in 13.3 seconds at 101.2 mph, again a tenth of a second (and 1.5 mph) slower than the Ioniq 5 and almost a second behind the Model Y.
Braking performance was a mixed bag. The EV6's best 60-0-mph stop of 117 feet was fine—better than the Hyundai and the Model Y. But our first hard stop elicited a worrying bang accompanied by a very long stopping distance. The second run gave us the 117-foot figure, but on subsequent stops the performance notably deteriorated. Although the Kia felt more stable under panic braking overall than the Hyundai, we felt the pedal should offer more feedback, and we wish the brakes were more robust in general.
"The brakes definitely won't last long when driving it like a hot hatch," road test analyst Alan Lau said. "Powerful powertrain but not enough stopping power."
A Sporty SUV In A Strangely Shaped Package
While the EV6's driving characteristics elicited grins, other aspects of this vehicle seemed to elicit an itching in our scalps—yes, this Kia had us scratching our heads. For starters, there's the price. The as-tested MSRP for our top-of-the-range AWD GT-Line model just crested $58K, a long way from the base model's $42,115 starting price. Even after incentives, that seems like a lot of money given the EV6's price and packaging.
The packaging itself was another puzzler. Kia advertises the EV6 as an all-electric SUV, yet its limited headroom—thanks to a rakishly low roof combined with a high floor under which the battery pack resides—make it feel like more of a hot station wagon. Even our shorter staffers noted with some alarm how close their noggins were to the EV6's headliner. That, and the EV6's half-pane sunroof effectively turns the back seat into a cave.
Some of the ergonomic choices are really baffling, as well, such as the combination stereo and climate controls. We don't mean that they're combined on one panel; rather, a capacitive-touch LCD screen and a pair of dials switch between these two functions—the left-hand dial, for example, serves as either power/volume or driver-side temperature control, depending on which mode the panel is in. Therein lies the trouble: If, when reaching for said dial with the intention of changing the volume, your finger happens to come close to the auto climate touch-pane next to it, the volume stays the same but the temperature changes. Hopefully you weren't planning to turn the volume down in a hurry, because you're now unable to change it (or press it to turn the stereo off) until you press another section of the screen to change the panel back to the stereo controls. This didn't happen to us just once or twice—it happened repeatedly, even after we knew to look out for it. It's hard to imagine Kia coming up with a worse idea short of mounting the horn inside the cabin.
Speaking of inappropriate noises, while all EVs are required to have an external noisemaker at low speeds (to warn the sight-impaired of their otherwise-silent approach), the Kia pipes in a droning faux engine note at all speeds, not unlike what Audi does in the E-Tron GT. Except in the E-Tron GT it sounds cool. In the EV6, it just grated on our nerves.
Kia EV6 May Not Be A Great SUV, But It's Pretty Great
So yes, the EV6 has some challenges. Perhaps if Kia marketed the EV6 as a hot hatchback rather than an SUV, we might be a little less baffled. As a sporty electric car, though, we're as pleased as can be with the Kia EV6's test-track results and their real-world implications. We've known for a while now that the speed and smooth power of electric cars can make them a lot of fun to drive, but the Kia's tail-first antics were not the sort of fun we were expecting from an EV—and we call that a very pleasant surprise, indeed. Hey, Kia, how long before we can get a rear-drive version of the EV6 in for testing? Walton's eager to drift it all the way around the skidpad.
| 2022 Kia EV6 AWD GT-Line Specifications | |
| BASE PRICE | $57,115 |
| PRICE AS TESTED | $58,105 |
| VEHICLE LAYOUT | Front- and rear-motor, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door SUV |
Jaguar Land Rover gives second life to I-PACE batteries
Jaguar, in partnership with Pramac, is creating a zero-emission charging unit using permanent Jaguar I-PACE batteries. Utilized renewable electricity ESS is charged using solar panels
The collaboration will help Jaguar Land Rover achieve zero carbon status by 2039! Jaguar’s engineering team worked with Pramac to develop a zero-emission zero-emission energy storage unit powered by Jaguar I-PACE long-life batteries, taken from prototypes and engineering test vehicles.
Named Off Grid Battery Energy Storage System (ESS), Pramac's technology features lithium-ion cells from Jaguar I-PACE batteries that have a long lifespan, providing zero-emission power where access to mains power is limited or unavailable. To demonstrate its capability, the unit helped Jaguar TCS Racing prepare for the 2022 ABB FIA Formula E World Championships during testing in the UK and Spain, where it was used to launch state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment from a team analyzing race car performance, and to supply auxiliary power supply to the Jaguar garage.
The flagship ESS system has a capacity of up to 125 kWh, more than enough to fully charge Jaguar’s award-winning all-electric I-PACE SUV with performance or to power an ordinary family home for a week. Powered by solar panels, the unit is a stand-alone solution consisting of a battery system connected to a two-way inverter and associated control systems. Available for commercial rental, the units are equipped with connectors for charging electric vehicles (EV) type 2 with dynamic control and rated power up to 22 kV AC to enable charging of the electric vehicle. Finding a second life for batteries after they have been removed from the vehicle can avoid premature recycling and help create a safe supply of rare materials.
The state-of-the-art 90kVh lithium-ion battery in the Jaguar I-PACE delivers a range of up to 470 kilometers, and with 400 hp and 696Nm of torque allows acceleration to "hundred" in just 4.5 seconds. The battery has also been developed for durability commensurate with its outstanding performance and efficiency, and I-PACE customers benefit from an eight-year or 160,000-kilometer battery warranty. When the battery finally reaches the end of its useful life, 95 percent can be recycled. In addition to working with industry leaders such as Pramac, Jaguar TCS Racing has dedicated its long-term future to the third-generation Formula E era. The team will continue to help Jaguar Land Rover develop new sustainable technologies, set new quality standards with its partners and fully electric luxury brand from 2025.
Mercedes EQS SUV coming soon
As it was announced at last year's fair in Munich, Mercedes-Benz is accelerating its plans for electrification. During the presentation of the strategy, several CEOs of the German company then outlined these plans, including the validation of several new models.
One of them is this EQS SUV, which according to the latest information will debut on April 19. A set of new teaser images as well as official images of its interior are used as an announcement.
The EQS SUV will be the third electric Mercedes model to be built on the company's new EV platform.
The Mercedes EQS SUV will also feature a distinctive grille, large alloy wheels, a luxurious interior with the highest quality materials, a 1400 mm MBUX Hyperscreen with two rows of seats (third row will be an option) and a state-of-the-art rear passenger entertainment system.
According to some announcements, the EQS SUV will have an autonomy of up to 600 km, depending on the version, according to the WLTP.
Apparently, the offer will include a base version with 245 kW / 334 hp with one electric motor, but also a stronger version with 385 kW / 523 hp.
In addition, the AMG variant will offer 533 kW / 725hp, and it should be noted that the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, which was confirmed as a vehicle concept last year, will also appear later.
AC Schnitzer GP3.10 offered for almost 70,000 euros
Fans of BMW cars now have the opportunity to own a true piece of history, as Schnitzer’s unique GP3.10 model is offered for sale.
The car was made to be exhibited at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007, is based on the 3 Series, and is powered by a 5.0-liter V10 engine that can also use LPG. The engine develops 45HP more than the factory condition, ie a total of 544HP and 540 Nm of torque.
The seller pointed out that GP3.10 can officially accelerate to 320 km / h, but also that the speed on testing was 335 km / h.
The engine is not the only one on the list of modifications, because the body is painted green and features a body kit that includes air intakes, chrome grilles and extended rear wheel arches by 60 mm, which make the car even more aggressive.
The interior has also been significantly modified and done in three colors, namely brown, white and beige leather. The cluster has also been modified, there are special accessories for pedals, and even the trunk is covered with leather. The car got Aachen wheels and low-profile tires and a number of other modifications, and everything is in exceptional condition.
Although the value of the car used to be estimated at 198,000, and then at 85,000, today this car can be bought for 69,980 euros.
2022 Hyundai Sonata
Mid-size sedans may no longer be the flavor of the day, but the Hyundai Sonata would like to remind you that its sleek styling, spacious interior, frugal or powerful engine lineup, and reasonable price tag may be the antidote to bland SUVs.
This year, the Sonata sees few tweaks following a revamp for 2020. The SEL Plus trim level adds a big sunroof and a 10.3-inch touchscreen paired with Bose speakers, while the N Line is newly available with a Night Edition package with 19-inch black wheels and other darkened accents.
Sonatas come in both gas and hybrid forms in SE, SEL, SEL Plus, and Limited trims, plus a sporty N Line with 290 horsepower. Sonata Hybrids can be had in Blue, SEL, and Limited trims.
With a five-star crash-test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, the Sonata is a safe choice. Standard equipment includes automatic emergency braking, while adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, active lane control, and a surround-view camera system are on the options list.
Fuel economy ratings run the gamut, though there’s no thirsty model in this lineup. Hybrids come out on top with ratings as high as 50 mpg city, 54 highway, 52 combined for the special Blue trim level. Models with the standard 4-cylinder engine rate 28/38/32, while the turbocharger adds power but dents economy to the tune of 27/37/31 mpg. The zippy N-Line checks in at 23/33/27 mpg thanks to its big power boost.
Model Lineup
The Sonata range starts off in SE trim for $25,395. Included at that price point are an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, LED headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, and cloth upholstery.
The SEL bumps the price by about $1,800 in exchange for bigger wheels, a hands-free trunk release, and heated seats, plus shoppers can add a panoramic sunroof, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a few other convenience features for $2,000.
The SEL Plus builds on a well-equipped SEL, but with a turbocharged engine, leather seats, Bose audio, and 19-inch wheels for about $32,400. Limited versions cost another $3,000 and add navigation, cooled front seats, and the ability for the driver to move it forward and backward from the key fob to aid in parking.
Hybrid versions start off at about $28,300 in Blue trim with the basics, plus special wheels and tires that allow for a spectacular fuel-economy rating. The SEL bumps the price by about $2,500 for a digital key, a wireless charging pad, Bose speakers, and a few other items. The Limited commands nearly $37,000 but comes outfitted with leather trim and a solar roof panel that can add a little charge to the battery when parked outside on a sunny day.
Enthusiasts should look to the Sonata N Line, which costs about $36,000 and includes the most powerful turbocharged engine plus a sport-tuned suspension and special interior and exterior trim.
Exterior
The Sonata has a sleek shape with a low front end, deep side strakes, and finned taillights connected by a narrow strip that runs the length of the trunklid. Certainly not a wallflower, the Sonata is a standout among mid-size sedans.
N Line versions are especially dressy this year thanks to a standard Night package that blacks out most exterior trim including the wheels. Hybrid versions are nearly identical to their gas-only counterparts, aside from badging and wheel designs.
Interior
Hyundai didn’t skimp on the Sonata’s interior. A panel housing the touchscreen infotainment system sprouts elegantly from the dash, which can be trimmed in black or contrasting tan. An 8.0-inch screen is standard, while a 10.3-inch display is fitted to higher-end versions.
Limited versions are especially luxurious with quilted leather upholstery draping their seats.
Front passengers will find terrific leg and head room, plus seats with a good range of adjustment and a choice between woven fabric, synthetic leather, and real hides. The seats can be power-adjusted, heated, and cooled, depending on the trim level.
The back seat can handle three medium-sized passengers abreast, although its 35 inches of leg room is tighter than some rivals. The rear seatbacks can be dropped to expand the 16 cubic-foot trunk.
Driving Impressions
Sonatas offer several tiers of performance, beginning with a 191-hp 2.5-liter inline-4 linked to an 8-speed automatic transmission that provides more than adequate acceleration for most needs. SEL Plus and Limited versions swap in a 180-hp turbo-4 that is down on power on paper but actually furnishes better acceleration in real-world use.
Hybrids have a total system output of 192 hp thanks to a 2.0-liter inline-4 linked to an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. They’re plenty peppy, plus they provide near-silent motoring in many situations.
The N Line pairs a powerful 290-hp turbo-4 with a snappy 8-speed dual-clutch automatic, a combination good for a 6-second 0-60-mph sprint. Opt for summer tires – and plan on buying winter tires if you live in the snow belt – and you’ll find that the N Line takes advantage of this balanced chassis.
Final Word
With a package for just about every type of buyer, the stylish Hyundai Sonata is a winner among mid-size sedans. The Hybrid checks the efficiency box and still has the sleek, winning shape; it’s our pick.
