2015 Chevrolet Tahoe

When the 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe hits the showroom floors in early 2014, die-hard SUV shoppers may find themselves taking a second look and considering the purchase of this gem of an SUV.

Similar in concept to the Suburban, the Tahoe is a slightly smaller, sportier version that brings a host of new automotive technology to its 2015 model.

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Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26 gals (98 L) MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Dimensions*
Length: 202 in. (513.1 cm) Wheel Base: 116 in. (294.6 cm)
Height: 76.9 in. (195.3 cm) Width: 79 in. (200.7 cm)
Curb Weight: NA Ground Clearance: 10.5 in. (26.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 60.3 lbs** Maximum Seating: 9 people
Performance
Engine: EcoTec V8 Displacement: 5.3 Liter
Horsepower: 355 HP Max RPM: NA
Torque: 383 lb-ft Transmission: 6-Speed Hydra-Matic

* 2014 Tahoe LS 2WD
** Behind 2nd row

Engine & Performance

In designing the new Tahoe, engineers resolved to find a way to give SUV owners the power and drive of a V8 engine, along with improved fuel economy using fewer cylinders. The Tahoe uses the 5.3 liter EcoTec engine that produces 355 horsepower along with 383 lb ft of torque.

This is referred to as cylinder deactivation, and occurs when the engine’s sensors detect that it can function efficiently on fewer cylinders and thus shuts the other cylinders off. The result is an 8-cylinder that has the fuel economy of a 6-cylinder.

When the engine’s sensors detect that more power is needed, such as when pulling a heavy load or going uphill, the inactive cylinders are activated for maximum power and less strain on the engine.

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Exterior

The eye catching details of the redesigned 2015 Tahoe will no doubt draw you closer. The highlights include headlamps that are uniquely shaped to go with an aerodynamic spoiler to go with chrome grilles.

The spoiler smartly hides the rear wipers. Every aspect of this full size SUV gives you the style and functionality necessary to drive in comfort and confidence.

Interior

Passengers will be treated to a quieter ride with less wind noise, thanks to changes in the design of the doors and side windows. The exterior design of the Tahoe results in a rear section that is more square than before, which allows for more interior room for passenger comfort.

The dashboard is impressive, with a design reminiscent of a car rather than an SUV. The 8-inch touchscreen on the dash folds upward to reveal a handy storage space behind the screen.

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Cargo Room

Thanks to an improved interior design, the second row of seats can easily be folded down at the touch of a button, to provide greater floor space for hauling larger items that would not have fit in the conventional sized cargo area.

When the second row of seats are needed again, simply pressing the button will bring them back to their original position.

Safety

The technological advances are not limited to entertainment. There are also some impressive tech features that protect both driver and passengers. These features include: a Built-in alert system for forward collisions; detection and alert for blind sides; warning systems to alert driver if they unintentionally leave their lane; and front seat airbags located in the center.

The 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe combines elegance with utility, technology with convenience, and style with fuel economy.

Chevrolet’s design of the new Tahoe reflects the hope and anticipation of Chevrolet executives that market demand for the SUV will not diminish, but will actually increase.

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October 23, 2013 at 1:30 am | No comment

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe Concept

In May of this year, Mercedes-Benz introduced the 2014 S-Class sedan. Many believed this was a prelude to the unveiling of an S-Class coupe.

However, in the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe Concept, we have a pre-production vehicle instead.

Once the German auto giant begins the assembly process, the car is expected to be a successor to the CL-Class targeting to compete with other super luxury models such as the Bentley Continental GT.

The S-Class Coupe will eventually be offered in a V8 or V12 engine, but for now the V8 is in the Concept. The coupe is being built using a modified S-Class Sedan platform. Speculation has it that a production model should be ready in time for the 2014 Detroit Car Show.

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Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.9 gals (83 L) MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 198.8 in. (505 cm) Wheel Base: 115.9 in. (294.5 cm)
Height: 55.5 in. (140.9 cm) Width: 77.0 in. (195.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA Maximum Seating: 2+2 people
Performance*
Engine: V8 DOHC Twin Turbo Displacement: 4.6 Liter
Horsepower: 449 HP Max RPM: 5250-5550 RPM
Torque: 516 lb-ft @ 1800-3500 rpm Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds Maximum Speed: NA

* 2014 S550 Class Sedan

Engine & Performance

The S-Class Coupe Concept is equipped with a 4.6 Liter, V8 bi-turbo engine which generates up to 455 horsepower.

While not specifically listed, the engine is expected to be mated to the Mercedes 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. The S-Class Coupe concept will accelerate from 0-60 in 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph, much like the S550 Sedan.2013-Mercedes-Benz-S-Class-Coupe-Concept-in-the-studio B

Exterior

The 2013 S-Class Concept is a hyper sporty version of the S-Class Sedan.

Upfront, you will find a rectangular 3D grille with dark chrome plated elements. The headlights are similar to the sedan with eyebrow shaped frames, but have a semi-circular counter line that add to its sleek profile. The headlamps are LED with a diamond shape which matches the geometry of the taillights.

The side view profile accentuates an elongated roofline, and the frameless doors add to the free-flowing symmetry.

The rear view finds a dominant and strong vision with a lower bumper section featuring a chrome strip along the trunk lid with a prevalent 3 pointed star in its center.

Interior
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Inside, you will encounter an interior that may not be too practical for everyday use, but at the same time very appealing.

To begin, the furnishing is in white. From the instrument panel that evenly flows across the horizon, to the seats coated in calfskin. Even the vent panels are snow colored made from brushed and polished aluminum.

The center console contains a touch screen display and is finished in black diamond, the perfect contrast to its white surroundings.

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October 22, 2013 at 12:30 pm | No comment

2013 Suzuki iV-4 Concept

Suzuki has established itself as having the longest history in compact SUV’s. Beginning with the LJ series in 1970 and continuing in 1988 with the Vitara and the 1998 Jimny, along with the Grand Vitara in 2005.

Now the Japanese automaker looks to combine the urban compact crossover with a customizable small car in the 2013 Suzuki iV-4 Concept.

The “iV-4” represents “individuality”, “Vehicle” and “4” wheel drive. It appears aimed at competing with other comparable compact crossovers.

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Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Compact SUV Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gals (50 L) MPG: NA
Dimensions
Length: 165.9 in. (421.5 cm) Wheel Base: 98.4 in. (250 cm)
Height: 65.5 in. (166.5 cm) Width: 72.8 in. (185 cm)
Performance
Engine: 2.0 Liter Inline 4 Horsepower: 150 HP
0-60 mph: 7.0 seconds Maximum Speed: 136 mph (219 km/h)

Engine & Performance

The production version of the Suzuki iV-4 is expected to have a 2.0L, inline-4 engine generating 150 horsepower.

Equipped with this engine, the iV-4 should move from 0-60 mph in 7 seconds with a top speed of 136 mph.

The “ALLGRIP” 4 wheel drive system will be offered as the newest of 4WD technology.2013-Suzuki-iV-4-Concept-studio-2-B

Exterior

The front view of the iV-4 Concept shows off a 5 slotted grille and clamshell hood. Some of its futuristic features include illumination of the grille at night and a laser sensor on the roof controlling a pair of fog lamps.

The 20″ wheels has a combination of silver and blue insert that provide a tall profile. The side view includes a flowing contoured line from the lower front door merging with the rear fender.

The Concept cars color comes in a metallic Turquoise blue that contrasts nicely with the heavily tinted see through roof.

Interior

Little has been revealed concerning the inside of the iV-4 Concept, but you may expect to find technological advancements incorporated in this compact SUV, including multiple infotainment / driver touch screen systems, along with leather seating and trim.

Not only is the iV-4 intended for everyday use, it is being marketed as an off road vehicle. This will be accomplished by a new all wheel, “ALLGRIP” powertrain technology.

The production version is anticipated to be ready for by 2015 in the European market.

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October 22, 2013 at 2:30 am | No comment

2015 BMW i8

From 1978 to 1981, BMW sold a supercar known as the M1. It was the only mid engine offering produced by Bavarian Motor Works.

Some 3 decades later they have taken a giant step forward in the supercar marketplace with the introduction of the 2015 BMW i8.

This vehicle represents the “Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept” unveiled not long ago. Along with the i3, the i8 features a hybrid drivetrain with an electric motor for the front wheels.2015-BMW-i8-studio-A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hybrid Coupe Base Price: $135,700
EV Mode Range: 22 miles MPGe for EV Mode: 310 miles avg
Fuel Tank Capacity: NA MPG for Hybrid Mode: NA avg
Dimensions
Length: 184.6 in. (468.9 cm) Wheel Base: 110.2 in. (280 cm)
Height: 51.1 in. (129.8 cm) Width: 80.3 in. (203.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA Maximum Seating: 2+2 people
Performance
Engine: 3 Cylinder DOHC Displacement: 1500 cc
Horsepower: 231 HP Max RPM: 5800 RPM
Torque: 184 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Motor Output: 131 HP (96 kW) Motor Torque: 184 lb ft

Engine & Performance

The 2015 i8 drivetrain consists of a 1.5 liter, inline 3 cylinder engine. This engine delivers 231 horsepower to the rear wheels. An electric motor provides an additional 131 horses to the front wheels, making up the total power output to 362 horsepower.

It will be mated with a 6 speed automatic transmission to the gas engine and an additional 2 stage transmission on the electric motor.

The BMW i8 will move from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. It is capable getting of 58 mpg in the city.2015-BMW-i8-soho-B

Exterior

The BMW i8 chassis will be made of aluminum. The body will be made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic. This combination produces a vehicle weighing just 3,285 pounds.

BMW’s world renowned kidney shaped grille will be present on its front façade, along with 2 large air intakes on either side of the front bumper. The profile view finds the absence of gull wing doors replaced with standard ones and the rear gets a quad exhaust system.

Interior

Inside, the BMW i8 is a standard 2+2, four seat layout. The seats themselves are made of exceptionally fine leather treated with an olive extract. The bespoke sports steering wheel is highlighted by several multi functional buttons. The “iDrive” operating system is also offered.

As of now, only one production model exists, but keep your eyes open for an “M” or “M Sports” model in the near future.

The 2015 i8 should be available in the spring of 2014. The anticipated starting price for this car will be in the $136,000 range.

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October 21, 2013 at 12:04 pm | No comment

2015 Chevrolet Suburban

Chevrolet’s Suburban will turn 80 next year, and to celebrate, the company has unveiled its new breed.

The 2015 Chevrolet Suburban offers more functionality, greater refinement, advanced technology and additional new safety features.

The engine used is similar to those used in their Silverado line of trucks.2015-Chevrolet-Suburban-really-big-A

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 31 gals (117 L) MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Dimensions*
Length: 222.4 in. (564.9 cm) Wheel Base: 130 in. (330.2 cm)
Height: 76.8 in. (195 cm) Width: 79.1 in. (200.9 cm)
Curb Weight: NA Ground Clearance: 10.5 in. (26.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 45.8 cu ft** Maximum Seating: 9 people
Performance
Engine: EcoTec V8 Displacement: 5.3 Liter
Horsepower: 355 HP Max RPM: 5600
Torque: 383 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Hydra-Matic

* 2014 Suburban LS 2WD
** Behind 3rd row seats

Engine & Performance

The 2015 Suburban comes with a 5.3 liter, small block V-8 engine. The engine is part of the Ecotec 3 engine family based on the 5th generation GM small-block engine. This engine gets the same direct injection, variable valve timing, and Active Fuel Management cylinder-deactivation featured in the Silverado.

You get a total output is 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Power is routed to either the rear wheels or all 4 through a 6-speed automatic transmission.

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Exterior

The exterior design of the SUV is more refined and precisely sculpted. The lines are smooth and part of this smoothness is attributed to the SUV’s doors, which are inlaid into the body resulting in a better sealing and reduced noise levels. Chevy has reduced the Suburban’s mass by utilizing aluminum for the hood and lift gate.

Other features include projector-beam headlamps, high-intensity discharge headlamps and light-emitting diode daytime running lamps.2015-Chevrolet-Suburban-my-summer-home-B

Interior

Inside the Suburban, premium materials and enhanced ergonomics demonstrate the car’s blend of sophistication, craftsmanship and function.

An instrument panel houses an 8 inch color touch screen radio with a secured storage bin behind the motorized screen. The compartmentalized center console is big enough to store an iPad and a laptop.

Safety

Chevrolet has incorporated new safety technologies such as a radar that contributes to 360 degrees of crash avoidance and occupant protection. The standard features include front park assist, forward collision alert, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane change assist movement sensors, alarm systems and adaptive cruise control.

The Chevrolet’s Safety Alert Seat is also available and gives directional vibrations to alert the driver about potential crash threats.

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October 21, 2013 at 2:04 am | 2 comments

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