World Car Blog
Pininfarina Pura Vision concept
Cars Pininfarina is preparing a new concept vehicle, the Pura Vision, described as an elegant elevated vehicle with a four- or five-seat interior, as well as high performance to challenge a sports SUV such as the Lamborghini Urus.
In terms of design and practicality, the Pura Vision concept targets cars like Porsche’s Panamera Sport Turismo.
Unofficially, the Pura Vision concept features a so-called suicide tailgate, 26-inch wheels, a panoramic glass roof and an interior inspired by luxury yachts.
The drive is provided by four electric motors with a total of 1000 hp, while the autonomy with one battery charge is about 550 km.
Acceleration to 100 km / h will be announced in less than three seconds, and the top speed will be 290 km / h.
The production model will still have smaller, 24-inch wheels and a classic rear door compared to this concept.
Finally, Pininfarina announces that at least three more future vehicles will be built on the same platform, namely a smaller SUV, coupe and convertible.
Skoda Enyaq review
At a glance |
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| New price | £36,605 - £47,875 |
| Lease from new | From £537 p/mView lease deals |
| Used price | £29,860 - £49,720 |
| Used monthly cost | From £745 per month |
| Fuel Economy | 3.4 - 4.0 miles/kWh |
| Insurance group | 23 - 32How much is it to insure? |
New
 6.8 - 14.3
Miles per pound (mpp)
 What is mpp? |
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PROS
- EV-specific design makes for roomy interior
- Claimed battery range of up to 336 miles
- 80X adds performance and four-wheel drive
CONS
- Acceleration won't blow you away
- Options can significantly jack up the price
- If you want a sporty drive, look elsewhere
Skoda’s all-electric SUV is spearheading the brand’s charge into the world of purpose-built EVs – offering a combination of space, practicality and usability that’s rare at the price. And in terms of value, spec, options and range, it’s so good, we named it our Car of The Year 2022.
The Enyaq iV is a large family-sized car that’s based on the similarly sized Volkswagen ID.4, yet it features Skoda’s value-for-money pricing as well as a more luxurious interior than its Volkswagen cousin. The cars it’s up against include the bestselling Kia e-Niro and Mercedes-Benz EQA at one end of the scale to the Mercedes-Benz EQC and forthcoming Tesla Model Y at the other – that comes down to the monthly cost.
Its short-bonnet and long cabin give it unusual proportions compared with a traditional SUV, but the shape is smart and looks classy. Combine those factors with a particularly inviting interior that’s available in a number of muted colours and trims, and really competitive range between recharges, the Enyaq iV is one of the most appealing electric family cars you can buy right now.
Want something sportier? The Enyaq iV Sportline adds 20-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights, a sportier bodykit and gloss black exterior trim. There’s also lowered sports suspension, which adds attitude. That’s available in 204hp 80 form or as the 265hp 80X, which adds four-wheel drive with a sophisticated ‘Traction Mode’ into the mix.
Over the next few pages we’ll be thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the Skoda Enyaq iV and rating them in our verdict. Our scores will take into account the driving experience, how pleasant the interior is, the practicality on offer, what it was like to live with over six months, and how much it’ll cost you to run.
- Lots of room for passengers, equal to Octavia Estate
- Boot space is also on a par with large estate cars
- Flat floor, lots of storage spaces inside the cabin
How much space is there?
Aside from the techfest dashboard, the Skoda Enyaq iV is quite conventional inside – it’s good looking, well trimmed from a tasteful range of materials and well screwed together from high-quality components. The front seats are inviting and comfortable, and it’s easy to get yourself well adjusted regardless of your size.
Boot space and storage
Just like pretty much every other Skoda, it’s also very practical. The boot has a capacity of 585 litres with the rear bench in place and 1,710 folded. That compares with 640 and 1,700 litres with famously capacious Skoda Octavia Estate. Sadly, the seats don’t fold completely flat.
So, it’s a big, flat area and should suit most families’ needs, without the need to resort to a roofbox. Unlike many electric car rivals, there’s no additional load capacity under the bonnet. Finally, the boot has a high loading lip, which might pose a problem when putting in heavy items, or getting your dog in the back.
The Skoda Enyaq iV is a bulky car that’s not blessed with the greatest of visibility. If you live in town, we’d recommend specifying a rear-facing camera at the very least. It’s difficult to know where the corners are, and could make it tough to park were it not for the fact that all models do come with parking radar.
Despite looking big and feeling heavy on the road, the Enyaq iV isn’t as big as you think. That means it will fit in most garages, and it won’t be too much of a burden to live with – as long as you don’t kerb those alloys.
Safety
- Five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP
- Adaptive cruise control with lane assist available
- Comes with nine airbags
The Skoda Enyaq iV is packed with all of the latest safety equipment you’d expect from a brand-new car from the Volkswagen Group. So, it comes with up to nine airbags, including a central airbag between the front seats, and comprehensive Proactive Occupant Protection.
Numerous state-of-the-art assistance systems alert the driver to potential collisions in many situations and even actively help to prevent them or minimise the consequences. These include Front Assist with predictive pedestrian and cyclist protection, Side Assist including Rear Traffic Alert, as well as Collision Avoidance Assist, Turn Assist and Exit Warning.
The Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) systems offers near-autonomous driver assistance on the motorway and also includes Adaptive Lane Assist with roadworks recognition, Also, full LED matrix headlights are available as options for the Enyaq iV.
Ford Explorer facelift
Ford will offer an updated version of the Explorer in the Chinese market in just a few months, but official images and basic details have already been released.
The photos show that the renewed Explorer got a changed front grille, adjusted LED lights, new bumpers, chrome details, new exhaust pipes, as well as a different design of aluminum wheels. Due to the changed bumpers, the vehicle is now 5063 mm long (formerly 5050 mm).
There are big changes in the interior as well, with a different front panel, 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, head-up display, revised center console, modified air vents and a large infotainment system screen.
The drive will be provided by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with 203 kW / 276 hp and 425 Nm, and paired with a 10-speed transmission, this model arrives from 0 to 100 km / h in 7.6 seconds.
Audi Q6 in early June
Audi is announcing a new Q6 SUV for the Chinese market, along with a set of factory teaser images.
However, the look of this novelty has not been a secret for some time now, as photos of the Q6 without any mask leaked to the public last month.
The official premiere is scheduled for June 6, and sales will start soon after (SAIC-Audi is in charge of production in China).
Either way, the Audi Q6 is a three-seater SUV model (will be available in 6- and 7-seater versions) and is based on the MQB Evo platform.
The data says that the Audi Q6 is 5099 mm long, 2014 mm wide, 1784 mm high, the wheelbase is 2980 mm and the vehicle weighs 2205 kg.
A 2.0-liter turbo gasoline in 231hp and 265hp versions will be available on the Chinese market, paired with an automatic transmission (unofficially, a 299hp V6 turbo gasoline is also mentioned).
The Chinese Q6 will not be offered with a diesel engine in the hybrid version either, but Audi has been preparing a fully electric Q6 e-tron for Europe for some time now, which according to earlier information will be based on the PPE platform.
Hyundai i20 N review
At a glance |
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| New price | £24,665 - £24,665 |
| Used price | £18,375 - £22,200 |
| Used monthly cost | From £459 per month |
| Fuel Economy | 40.4 mpg |
| Road tax cost | £165 |
| Insurance group | 27How much is it to insure? |
| New
5.4
Miles per pound (mpp)
What is mpp? |
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PROS
- Quick acceleration
- Responsive steering
- Slick gearchange
CONS
- Interior design and quality is patchy
- Sporty suspension means stiff ride
- More expensive than Ford Fiesta ST
Is the Hyundai i20 N any good?
Despite the march of electrification, the Hyundai i20 N proves there’s life in the old-fashioned hot hatch formula. In essence, Hyundai has taken the turbocharged 1.6-litre engine usually found in its larger models and shoehorned it under the bonnet of one of its smallest.
To make the most of the muscle under the bonnet, the suspension has been stiffened and lowered with uprated springs and dampers. The styling also gets a boost, with aggressive-looking bumpers front and rear, prominent side skirts, 18-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler proudly mounted on the tailgate. In other words, it’s packed with attitude and promises to excite on the road, too.
That’s because Hyundai’s N Division has been orchestrated by the former head of BMW’s M Division, Albert Biermann. That means he has the final sign-off on all new N-badged cars, which might explain why the company has put so much work into their steering and handling. The i20 it’s based upon slots into the small car class, and goes up against the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo – so it stands that the hot version is gunning for the ST and GTI respectively.
What’s it like inside?
The i20 N’s interior is packed with tech, and dominated by a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel and similarly-generous central infotainment touchscreen. The system is quick and easy to use, and in addition you get wireless mobile phone charging, a reversing camera with parking sensors, and digital climate control with easy-to-use toggle controllers.
That’s all standard i20 fare, but the high-backed sports seats certainly aren’t. From the driver’s perspective you get what you need – all the support you need, especially in corners, and a great view out. All the major controls are well-sited and the manual gearbox is a pleasure to use (more of that below).
As a small family car, the i20 N also works well – it’s roomy in the rear and has a decently-sized and shaped luggage area. If you want a three-door version, forget it – like so many small cars these days, it’s five-door only.
What’s it like to drive?
In a word, great. It’s a small car that packs 204hp and 275Nm, so it’s quick off the blocks. It accelerates from 0-62mph in 6.2 seconds and goes on to a maximum speed of 142mph. In true hot hatch fashion, it thrives on revs – it goes well at medium speeds, but it really picks up its pace and flies beyond 4,500rpm, pulling strongly to the rev limiter. It doesn’t sound as tuneful as the delightful three-cylinder turbo in the Fiesta ST, but it has a raw appeal that suits its nature.
Handling and steering are this car’s real forte. The steering is super responsive without being nervous, and you can tailor the weight to your liking via the infotainment system. Turning into a tight bend is an absolute joy with plentiful grip, a neutral balance and not much body roll. Yes, the ride is firm, but it’s well damped and although you’ll find yourself bobbing around in the driver’s seat more than a standard i20, it’s not uncomfortable.
It’s certainly far more entertaining than the softer-edged Polo GTI, but doesn’t have the same level of playfulness as the Fiesta ST. Where the I20 feels planted on the road, the Fiesta’s tail can be provoked into sliding when entering corners in a most entertaining fashion.
What models and trims are available?
The cash price for an un-optioned Hyundai i20 N is around £25,000, which makes it more cheaper than the Ford Fiesta ST, now available only in well equipped ST-3 trim. It’s better equipped than the standard i20 – but there are options to choose from, too.
Performance Blue paint, as well as a selection of metallic and pearl colours can add up to £550 and adding a contrasting a black roof costs an additional £500. Want a better stereo? Upgrade to a Bose surround-sound system for another £500.
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Should you buy one?
Hyundai’s N Division has served up another excellent hot hatch, following on from the equally-fun i30 N. It’s great to drive with punchy acceleration and a powerful engine that thrives on revs. Would we recommend one? Yes – although you’d do well to try out a Ford Fiesta ST, which boasts a better engine and more boisterous handling.
The handling and steering are easily the i20 N’s strongest asset and make it a bit of a champion in a market sector that’s dwindling as carmakers introduce new superminis without hot hatch heroes at the top of the range.
As an overall package, then, the i20 N just eclipses the Ford Fiesta ST. Not because it’s better to drive, but because it’s roomier, better built, has a longer warranty and more usable tech, making it the better fast small car.
What we like
Beyond the hot hatch qualities, such as its responsive steering and brilliant handling, we like the i20’s interior and practicality, long warranty and excellent expected reliability.
What we don’t like
The quality of the interior isn’t up there with its rivals with some cheap-feeling fittings to contend with. We also wish it were a little cheaper.
Apple Car arrives in a few years
The Apple Car will not have a physical key, but it will cost $ 100,000 or more, and will finally be launched in 2025 or 2026.
Apple Car is a long-awaited product
It's called "Project Titan" within Apple, which makes a lot of sense considering that this is the biggest thing Apple has ever worked on.
Many stories revolved around the development of the Apple Car, from the fact that the company hired more than 1,000 engineers to work on it so that not everything went according to plan, to the fact that more people who were in charge of the project left company. This has certainly delayed development, but not as much as one might think.
Many news outlets have also reported on several alleged "agreements" between Apple and other carmakers such as Hyundai or BMW… It is true that Apple has partnered with Lexus to produce some custom cars with LiDAR sensors that Apple drives in California. to test sensors and collect data for Project Titan, but that doesn’t mean the company will rely on Lexus to produce the car.
Apple car prices
As expected Apple Car will not be cheap. Today, you can buy Tesla for about $ 46,000. Well, don't expect the Apple Car to cost less than $ 100,000, which won't be the final price because there's a lot of work to do and a lot of things could change during the development process, but the price will be high, that's for sure.
The reason for this is that Apple has no reputation as a car manufacturer, and the company feels like it has to wait until it can compete with a brand like Tesla. If it strives for a market where Tesla does not dominate, it will have time to gain a reputation as a good car manufacturer, and only then could Apple start competing with Tesla at a lower price.
You will need an iPhone to use the Apple Car. It won’t have a physical key like your typical car; instead, you will have to use an Apple key, information about this car is still scarce and we expect more to be written on this topic.
Exclusive for Apple cars
On several sides, it could be heard that Apple intends to start mass production at the end of 2024 or 2025. This does not necessarily mean that Apple Car will be launched in 2025, since mass production of cars requires much more time than is needed for iPhone or Apple Watch.
The company previously planned for Apple Car to be ready by 2027, but that doesn’t seem to be the case anymore. When Apple plans to enter a new market, it usually waits a few years to see if other companies are doing well or badly, and given Tesla's recent success, it makes sense that Apple wants to launch Apple Car as soon as possible but that's just speculation.
Another exclusive
Some sources suggest that the Cupertino-based company plans to use a lot of titanium parts in the Apple Car. Titanium is a premium material that looks great and is very strong, so it will create a superior "aura" around this car that will make it unique, just as Apple is planning with its Pro iPhone and other devices.
Fiat 500 "La Prima by Bocelli"
After the great success of the New 500 "La Prima Launch Edition", the most exclusive version of this family returns with the premiere of the New 500 "La Prima by Bocelli"
* The new 500 "La Prima by Bocelli", the brand new most exclusive version of the model, returns to continue the success of the first generation - the limited edition sold out in the first few months after its release in March 2020 - is still the best-selling version: for each three purchased models New 500, one is exclusive La Prima.
* Fiat, together with maestro Andrea Bocelli, Mateo Bocelli and JBL, presents an innovative premium sound system, 100% dedicated to the "sound of silence" of the Fiat electric icon.
* Mateo Bocelli's new single will be the main musical track of the collaboration, with its innovative sound and musical identity.
* The new premium model also offers the "Glove Disinfection Barrier", an innovative content that reaffirms the Italian "Dolce Vita" style in the post-Kovid era.
* The new 500 "La Prima by Bocelli" offers successful first-generation features as standard: from the soft-touch upholstery of the Premium version, to the AVAS electric sound composed by Nino Rota, from the Fiat Monogram Capote soft top to the textile control panel.
* The new 500 is the Stellantis Group's best-selling electric model and the best-selling electric car in Europe and the city car segment.
The new 500 "La Prima by Bocelli" is the first city car in the world to feature JBL "Virtual Venues" technology, which provides an unsurpassed audio experience. As standard, the new version of this cult and most exclusive Fiat car exclusively features Bochelli's JBL Premium sound system: an extremely sophisticated 320W premium audio system in both design and performance that is simple and intuitive to use. It is perfectly integrated into the car without any impact on the interior or space of the trunk. To make the JBL audiO system perfectly tailored to the vehicle, Fiat took advantage of the experience of maestro Andrea Bocelli, the world’s most popular live tenor, and selected Matee Bocelli’s upcoming new single for the music track of the communication campaign.
"Due to the extraordinary success of the New 500 la Prima version, the strongest version of our electric icon, we realized that our customers want a product that is definitely premium, Italian and cult. In short, they want the best of what is made in Italy, "said Olivier Francois, CEO of the Fiat brand and marketing director of the Stellantis Group. "It is in Italy that I can find the best expression of art, beauty and music.
For this reason, together with maestro Andrea Bocelli, we have created a superior sound experience to enhance the silence of the electric car. Thanks to the excellent JBL Virtual Venues technology, we provide our customers with an immersive and customized sound experience. "This revolutionary premium audio system completes the authentic Italian icon, proudly made in Italy to give the world the most authentic Italian spirit possible."
New 500 la Prima by Bocelli
For its world premiere, the New 500 la Prima by Bocelli is dressed for opera, dressed in black and offering a "Glove Disinfection Box" as standard. The device integrates a UV-C lamp into the glove compartment to improve the hygiene of the surfaces of small personal items (such as smartphones, keys and other small everyday items). The customer activates it by placing small personal items in the glove compartment, closing the compartment and pressing a button on the center console. The hygiene cycle lasts three minutes and the blue indicator outside and an audible signal notify you when the cycle is over.
The new strongest version also has a variety of "jewelry" in terms of design and technology: the incomparable Fiat Monogram Capote soft top in convertible version and infotainment system with 10.25-inch high-resolution touch screen, fully LED headlights and 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, with Fiat logo.
The new version features state-of-the-art technology with a battery life of 320 km in the WLTP cycle, which increases to 460 km in the city cycle. Plus, the New 500 is the first city car with 2nd level autonomous driving.
The new 500 la Prima by Bocelli is available in three body versions: convertible, hatchback and 3 + 1 and 6 colors (Onyx Black, Rose Gold, Ice White, Mineral Gray, Ocean Green and Celestial Blue).
