Lexus added a new model to their 2014 lineup, securing its position as a leader in the hybrid market.

The 2014 Lexus CT 200h claims to be a luxury hybrid that combines performance with eco-friendly technologies, wrapped in a redesigned exterior.

Performance is comparable to other models especially since it can be used as a family car.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid Hatch	Base Price: $32,050
Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.9 gals (45 L)	Miles Per Gallon: 43 city / 40 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 170.1 in. (432 cm)	Wheel Base: 102.4 in. (260 cm)
Height: 56.7 in. (144 cm)	Width: 69.5 in. (176.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3130 lbs (1420 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.9 in. (15 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: Inline 4 Atkinson Hybrid	Displacement: 1.8 Liter
Horsepower: 134 HP	Transmission: ECVT – FWD
0-60 mph: 9.8 seconds	Maximum Speed: 113 mph (182 km/h)

Drivetrain

The engine used for the model is similar to the one used for the Prius. It is a 1.8 liter four-cylinder engine with a max output of 98 horsepower and a 105 lbs ft of torque.

The electric motor adds 36 horsepower for a total of 134 horsepower. A CVT transmission system is used in order to ensure that fuel consumption remain low.

Performance

The car has a relatively lower stance when compared with other hybrids. This gives it more stability. The coil springs have been adjusted to provide better agility and responsiveness to road conditions. Cornering at high speeds is decent even at high speeds.

Exterior

It’s front grille has the center pushed forward to give it a multi-dimensional and more aggressive look. The long headlights have been pushed back while the rear received a bigger bumper giving it an imposing profile.

Interior

The central dashboard features a 4.2 inch TFT screen that it controllable via the steering wheel. All additional controls have been located within arms reach.

Chromed elements were used on the doors, dashboard and steering wheel. Overall, the interior is spacious while the controls are located ergonomically around the wheel and central panel.

Lexus managed to build a luxurious hybrid with impressive fuel efficiency. The interior follows the quality standards of the brand while maintaining an attractive appearance.

The visual upgrade and performance tweaks make the 2014 Lexus CT 200h one of the coming year’s most anticipated vehicles.

The 2014 Lexus GS 300h was designed to be the central piece of the E-Premium segment.

Several design, safety and technology enhancements have been introduced for the entire GS series including the 300h hybrid model.

Despite the fact that it is not the first hybrid model released by Lexus, expectations are high. The luxury hybrid car niche is getting croweded, and Lexus leads the pack in this market segment.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid Sedan	Base Price: £31,495
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.4 gals (66 L)	Miles Per Gallon: 60 combined

Dimensions*

Length: 190.9 in. (485 cm)	Wheel Base: 112.4 in. (285.5 cm)
Height: 57.3 in. (145.5 cm)	Width: 72.4 in. (184 cm)
Gross Weight: 4927 lbs (2235 kg)	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cylinder DOHC	Displacement: 2.5 Liter
Horsepower: 178 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 164 lb-ft @4200-5400 rpm	Transmission: ECVT-Speed Automatic
Electric Motor: 650v	Max Output: 105 kW
Horsepower: 141 HP	Torque: 222 lbs ft
0-60 mph: 9.2 seconds	Maximum Speed: 118 mph (190 km/h)

* SE trim (UK)

Drivetrain

Lexus decided to go with a 2.5 liter for cylinder hybrid engine capable of a maximum output of 178 horsepower at 6000 rpm.

In hybrid mode, the petrol engine is assisted by a 650-volt electric motor. Transmission is distributed using the Continuously Variable Transmission system or ECVT.

Performance

The double wishbone, multi-link suspension offers superior stability and optimum steering. Its front downforce gives it decent road grip under normal driving conditions.

Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 5.6 seconds with a top speed limited to 131 mph.

Exterior

Many design elements remain from earlier GS models for the new 300h including the aggressive frontal grille design that extends all the way down to the end of the front bumper.

Along the side, the two fog lights were pushed back into the bumper while the tail lights reach to the side of the car. The rear design was borrowed from other models from the GS series.

Interior

The interior is spacious and provides more room for the driver to adjust the seat. Lexus used light brown leather for the interior and seats combined with a black dashboard.

The upper portion of the central dashboard features an extra-wide LCD screen. The gauges and instruments have a classic design, placed carefully right behind the three spoke steering wheel.

Hyundai has come out with mid-cycle refresh for all three body styles of the Elantra during the 2013 Los Angeles Motor Show. The new renderings are comprehensive, with changes much more than just the headlights or taillights. Prominent was the 2014 Hyundai Elantra Sedan.

The significant changes come in the form of a new 2.0 liter powertrain and a new Sport trim.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $17,500.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gals (50 L)	Miles Per Gallon: 28 city / 38 hwy

Dimensions*

Length: 178.3 in. (452.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 56.5 in. (143.5 cm)	Width: 69.9 in. (177.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 2661 lbs (1207 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 14.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cylinder Nu GDI	Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 173 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 154 lb-ft @4700 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

* 2013 GLS specs

Engines & Performance

The Sports trim of the 2014 Elantra Sedan comes equipped the all-new 2.0 liter engine that produces 173 horsepower @ 6500 rpm and generates a torque of 154 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm. This means a 17% increase in power and 18% increase in torque over the 1.8 liter engine.

The new engine is estimated to provide you with 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

The previous 1.8 liter engine still gives you produces 145 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of peak torque. In addition to giving you 28 city/38 highway mpg.

Other changes include a re-tuned suspension that boasts of a larger front sway bar and stiffer springs. The Electronic power steering has also been reprogrammed.

Exteriors

The new Elantra sedan receives restyled front and rear fascias. New fog lamps, projector headlights, a chrome belt line and an exposed single exhaust tip are welcome additions.

The rear spoiler and the optional LED taillights add sophistication to the car. The chrome belt line trim adorns the flanks and an ‘open-mouth’ lower grille bumper provides a more focused look. The sleek roofline, the muscular wheel arches and the flowing lines give the Elantra a ‘Fluid Sculpture’ design.

Interiors

The interior has been refined, which gives it a more premium feel. Aluminum accents have been added.

Hyundai has packed in a new touch screen display with a navigation system and new HVAC controls. The slightly darker beige used gives it a richer look.

The Sports and Limited trims feature aluminum pedals and door sill plates. Also, Hyundai has improved in reducing the cabin noise.

The new Hyundai Elantra Sedan is expected to hit the streets in early 2014.

The 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT comes with a refreshed exterior and a more powerful engine as part of their lineup.

Compact in size yet spacious enough, the mid range hatchback comes with multiple improvements and visual changes.

With visual improvements that affect aerodynamics, this Elantra GT is faster, more stable on the road and attractive.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gals (50 L)	Miles Per Gallon: 24 city / 34 hwy

Dimensions*

Length: 169.3 in. (430 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.3 in. (264.9 cm)
Height: 57.9 in. (147.1 cm)	Width: 70.1 in. (178.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 2745 lbs (1245 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 23 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cylinder Nu GDI	Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 173 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 154 lb-ft @4700 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

* 2013 GT specs

Engine

The Elantra GT comes with a 2.0 liter, four cylinder engine. Compared with the previous version, the new one is rated at 173 horsepower at 6500 rpm with 154 lbs-ft of torque.

Hyundai uses a 6-speed automatic transmission and offers great fuel efficiency.

Performance

The Elantra GT has MacPherson front suspensions in order to absorb shocks better and enhance steering stability even off the road. Additionally, the Driver Selectable Steering Mode system contributes significantly to the car’s handling.

Also, its redesigned front bumper and the aerodynamics improvements increase its down force giving it better road grip and stability at high speeds.

Exterior

The exterior had a few changes. It now features an extended front grille with the central line pushed forward giving it a look typical for a sports car.

The headlights have been extended to the side. The tail lights have also been moved to the side, while the rear bumper has been pushed back.

Interior

Symmetry dominates the interior. Noticeable is the central control panel, door controls and even the convenient buttons on the steering wheel.

Hyundai has created an all-black interior with chromed elements around the doors and central panel. The seats come covered in black leather.

The new Elantra GT aims to be a mid range hatchback that offers a powerful engine and an attractive interior.

Unveiled recently was the 2014 Veloster Turbo R-Spec at the LA Auto Show. This car is touted as a high-performance vehicle but without the standard features found on the Veloster Turbo.

It is a stylish sporty coupe that provides the driving experience of a sports car. This vehicle is a linear, stripped-down version of the Veloster Turbo that’s meant for drivers who want a big step up in overall performance from the base model.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hatchback	Base Price: $22,110.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gals (50 L)	Miles Per Gallon: 24 city / 35 hwy

Dimensions*

Length: 167.3 in. (424.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.3 in. (264.9 cm)
Height: 55.1 in. (139.9 cm)	Width: 71.1 in. (180.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 2800 lbs (1270 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 15.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cylinder Turbo GDI	Displacement: 1.6 Liter
Horsepower: 201 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 195 lb-ft @1750-4500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 7.7 seconds**	Maximum Speed: 130 mph** (209 km/h)

* 2013 Turbo specs
** Projected

Engine & Performance

The car comes with 1.6 liter 4 cylinder engine that gives you 201 horsepower with 195 lb-ft of torque. It is teamed with a 6- speed manual or dual- clutch automatic.

Impressively, it goes from 0 to 60 mph in less than 7 seconds. It uses wheel-speed sensors that are coupled with ESC algorithms in order to apply precise braking to the front wheel.

Exterior

The R-Spec has added a sporty red-accented front-splitter and side blades. There is also R-Spec badging located on the rear.

It is available in 4 different colors: Marathon Blue, Elite white, Sprint Gray and Ultra black.

Interior

The Veloster R-Spec has a sportier interior and enough room up front for 2. You are feted to a panoramic roof as an option.

The rear seats can fold down easily to create more cargo room. There are cubbies and bins for stowing away the smaller items.

Communication and audio features include a USB/iPod interface, Bluetooth, RCA inputs and a GraceNote music display which allows driver access to through the use of voice commands.

Other upgrades include leather seats, rear-view camera, a navigation system and automatic climate control system.