2014 Opel Insignia

The new Opel Insignia is scheduled to make its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The top Opel model has made a step forward by making major improvements on three different fronts; the range of power, the interior, and the exterior.

The design of the 2014 Opel Insignia perfectly matches their design philosophy, ‘sculptural artistry meets German Precision’.2014-Opel-Insignia-around-a-bend A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hatchback Base Price: £21,272
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gals (70 L) MPG: 28 city / 39 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 190.2 in. (483 cm) Wheel Base: 107.8 in. (273.7 cm)
Height: 59 in. (149.8 cm) Width: 73.1 in. (185.6 cm)
Curb Weight: NA Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 4 Cylinder VVT Displacement: 1796 cc
Horsepower: 138 HP Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 130 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

Engine

The new 2014 Opel Insignia comes with an expanded range of engines. Customers will be able to choose between three alternative drive systems. Diesel engine, gasoline and engine power plants that utilize liquefied petroleum gas.

The existing diesel units have also benefited from improvements.2014-Opel-Insignia-chuckwagon B

Exterior

The high-gloss chrome grille at the front of the car is now lower and wider. The strip that carries the Opel logo has been made thinner and includes winglets that connect with the redesigned head lights.

Despite the fact that Opel has made subtle changes to the Insignia’s design, the revised front fascia is definitely notable. The new design boasts new and completely different bumpers, tail-lights and headlamps; the design difference can be seen in the shape.

Interior

One of the most exciting interior features Insignia customers will enjoy is the new center console. The completely re-designed center console has a feeling of refinement and subtlety; the console offers state of the art technologies and functions.

The simplified console has less buttons making it easier to use while making basic functions accessible, like infotainment and air conditioning. The instrument cluster has received new dials thus giving it a fresh and high-tech look.

The new 2014 Opel insignia is first available in Germany, in five and four-door models, along with the Sports Tourer Version.

2014-Opel-Insignia-seats 3 2014-Opel-Insignia-rear 2 2014-Opel-Insignia-cockpit 1

August 1, 2013 at 4:18 pm | No comment

2014 Nissan Note

The 2014 Nissan Note was first launched in 2013 at the Geneva Motor Show. It is not only an upgrade of its predecessor; it also utilizes engineering innovations and ideas that were showcased in the groundbreaking of the Juke and the Qashqai models.

The Nissan Note offers a fully rounded experience which meets the expectations and demands of all customers who are bored with gimmicks, limitations and conventions of most of the top selling small cars.2014-Nissan-Note-in-red A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hatchback Base Price: £11,650
Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.2 gals (46 L) MPG: 39 city / 54 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 161.4 in. (410 cm) Wheel Base: 102.3 in. (260 cm)
Height: 61 in. (155 cm) Width: 66.5 in. (169 cm)
Curb Weight: 2535 lbs (1150 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 9.8 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: Inline 4 Displacement: 1386 cc
Compression Ratio: 9.9: 1 Horsepower: 87 HP @ 5200 rpm
Torque: 95 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 13.4 seconds Maximum Speed: 101 mph (163 km/h)

Engine

It combines low running costs with a strong performance. There are three units offered; a supercharged 1.2litre DIG-S, an 89 horsepower 1.5 liter dCi turbo diesel, and a 1.2 liter petrol with an 79 horsepower.

To reduce inefficient power usage in the engine, the Note uses the Miller Cycle system. These innovations make the engine one of the most flexible and efficient in the market.2014-Nissan-Note-indoors B

Interior

It has lane departure warning, blind spot warning and advanced moving object detection systems which combine to give the diver a new level of assistance.

These systems received their data from the cameras mounted on the vehicle. This significantly reduces the risk of accidental scrapes and bumps.

Exterior

The exterior of the car has clean silhouette lines which showcase the car’s leading aerodynamics. It is lightweight and combines the short overhangs and long wheel base to create an agile and sporty look.

Features

The Nissan Note has a simple concept but is still highly advanced in engineering and design. It features a package of technologies which have been used intelligently to give tangible benefits.

Trims

The 2014 Nissan Note comes in three trim grades; Acenta, Tekna and Visia. The models all feature six airbags, cruise controls with speed limiters and stop-start ignition systems.

The production of this 2014 Nissan Note begins in 2013 in the summer and the first deliveries are scheduled for the autumn of 2013.

2014-Nissan-Note-parked 2 2014-Nissan-Note-steering 3 2014-Nissan-Note-movin 1

August 1, 2013 at 11:46 am | No comment

2014 Nissan Leaf

The Nissan LEAF has gone through major engineering enhancements to improve its efficiency.

The 2014 Nissan Leaf is more agile since it can perform for a greater period on a single charge.

Changes have been made to improve its practicality and efficiency so as to enrich the driver’s experience.2014-Nissan-Leaf-go A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Electric Hatchback Base Price: $28,800
EV Range: 73 miles avg MPGe for EV Mode: 129 city / 102 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 175 in. (444.5 cm) Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 61 in. (154.9 cm) Width: 69.7 in. (177 cm)
Curb Weight: 3291 lbs (1493 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 24 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Motor: Electric kW Motor: 80 kW
Horsepower: 107 HP Torque: 187 lb-ft
Battery: 24 kWh Lithium Ion Transmission: 1-Speed Automatic

Engine & Performance

The improvements are on the car’s aerodynamics and a weight loss program results in an NEDC range 124 miles, an improvement from 109 miles. It also produces 107 horsepower and 187 ft lb of torque.

The new built in charger reduces the charging period by half. Against the clock the performance has improved with a top speed of 85 mph and 0 to 60 taking 11.5 sec.2014-Nissan-Leaf-going B

Exterior

The 2014 Leaf features a distinct aerodynamic shape and is built on an EV platform. Just as with the previous version the front of the Nissan features slim vertical headlights that have LED lighting. The lights serve to direct airflow away from the door mirrors so as to help reduce the noise of the wind.

The Leaf now features seven exterior colors for example white, grey, red and black metallic. The body is designed with the principle of smart fluidity. The rear view features gently curved, thin vertical taillights and with no exhaust pipe.

Interior

The cabin houses new seats which have been redesigned for better comfort and support. The front seats have been adjusted height wise and reshaped to increase leg room for the rear passengers.

The driver and front passenger seat have been readjusted so that those in the rear can stretch their legs.

A new bio-fabric derived from 100 per cent sugar has been introduced for the Acenta trim. This is different from the original model which used 39 per cent recycled plastic bottles. Black leather fitted on top of the range Tekna trim is available in a dark interior, more practical finish that is suitable for European winter conditions.

2014-Nissan-Leaf-posing 3 2014-Nissan-Leaf-controls 1 2014-Nissan-Leaf-city-lights 1

A new foot triggered parking brake has been introduced so as to allow more space on the center console which had been taken up by the electric parking brake (used for storage of keys or phones).

July 30, 2013 at 3:44 pm | No comment

2014 Nissan Micra

The 2014 Nissan Micra is one of the most significant models in the history of this Japanese car manufacturer.

It is also the bedrock on which the success of the company has been built and has undergone a series of enhancements and improvements.

There are three models for the Nissan Micra; Visia, Acenta and Tekna. All these models come with the standard equipment like side airbags, curtain bags, remote central locking and front power windows.2014-Nissan-Micra-transit A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Compact Base Price: £9,950
Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.8 gals (41 L) MPG: 46 city / 68 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 148.8 in. (378 cm) Wheel Base: 96.5 in. (245 cm)
Height: 60 in. (152.5 cm) Width: 65.5 in. (166.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 2160 lbs (980 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 9.4 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: Inline 3 DOHC Displacement: 1198 cc
Horsepower: 79 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 81 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 13.7 seconds Maximum Speed: 106 mph (170 km/h)

Engine

It comes with a very efficient petrol engine. It has a 1.2 liter engine that produces 75 horsepower and 74 lb ft of torque which makes the Nissan Micra a small, but powerful. The engine is automatic start/stop. The advantage of this car is the smooth acceleration with no shift lock.

Exterior

It comes with a new rear and front design which is made complete with sheet metal changes. It comes with two new 15-inch and 16-inch alloy wheels and new bold colors. It comes with a completely new face with a new grille.

The bonnet, bumper and wings are new with the front fog lamps which have been redesigned in a new shape with a chrome casing. The rear comes with a new bumper, new infill panel at the bottom of the tailgate and new LED tail lamps. These changes make the Nissan Micra dynamic in its appearance.

2014-Nissan-Micra-showroom B

Interior

The interior received a substantial make over. There is new technology, a new trim, new finishing touches and a mew center console. The communication center comes with the latest state of the art touch screen navigating system and a radio.

The upgraded navigation comes with eco-routing features which calculate the route with efficient fuel consumption in mind. It comes with an advanced parking aid and an electric power steering.

The center console comes in a black glossy color with silver accents. With a five-passenger capacity, there is plenty of legroom for both the passengers and driver.

2014-Nissan-Micra-micro 2 2014-Nissan-Micra-interior 1 2014-Nissan-Micra-turn 3

July 30, 2013 at 9:44 am | No comment

2014 Ram 1500

Unlike pickup trucks of the past, the 2014 Ram 1500 has made gas mileage a focal point. For beginners, this light duty vehicle contains the first ever automatic stop-start system offered in its market segment.

The engine shuts down while idling, it restarts itself once your foot is lifted from the brake pedal. All accessories are unaffected. Structural features improve the trucks aerodynamics and the 2014 version is 30 lbs. lighter.2014-Ram-1500-country A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Pick Up Base Price: $24,200
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26 gals (98 L) MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy
Dimensions*
Length: 209 in. (530.8 cm) Wheel Base: 120.5 in. (306.1 cm)
Height: 74.6 in. (189.5 cm) Width: 79.4 in. (201.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 4684 lbs (2125 kg) Ground Clearance: 8.7 in. (22.1 cm)
Cargo Capacity: NA Maximum Seating: 3 people
Performance
Engine: V8 DOHC Displacement: 4.7 Liter cc
Horsepower: 310 HP Max RPM: 5650 RPM
Torque: 330 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 9250 lbs (4196 kgs) Maximum Speed: NA

*Tradesman Trim-regular cab

Engine & Performance

Under the hood is a 4.7L, V8 generating 310 horsepower engine. It is mated with a 6 speed automatic transmission. As a mid level option, the Ram 1500 is available in a 3.6L, Pentastar V6 at 305 horsepower which continues the fuel efficiency theme by rating at 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway with 2 wheel drive and an 8 speed auto trans.

There is always the 5.7L HEMI and the new Eco-Diesel V6.2014-Ram-1500-farm-hand C

Exterior

The 2014 Ram 1500 has experienced a restyling rather than just a tweak to the model or trim lines. It begins with a completely new front grille standing an inch taller than previous models. Another more subtle change is the crosshair bars are now flush from its top to the bottom.

The new grille is now functional. It actually closes when cooling is not required allowing the air to flow more freely over the Rams body and provide savings in fuel cost. The new bumper incorporates fog lamps and the sides feature wheel to wheel stainless steel running boards. Available exterior colors are now an even dozen.

Interior

Inside the new Ram 1500, the changes are more noticeable. For starters, Chrysler has completely eliminated the shifter and instead you will find a knob on the dash to shift gears. Push buttons control the 4 wheel drive function.

The seats have been upgraded using premium materials, armrests have also been added. The center console has been changed to accommodate an 8.4″ “Uconnect” info screen. The sharp Ram emblems are not in short supply inside the vehicle. They are prominently displayed in chrome on each door panel and a raised version rests in the center dash above the “Uconnect” display.

2014-Ram-1500-drive-on B

July 28, 2013 at 3:05 pm | No comment

->