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Motorsport

2024 Renault Arkana Facelift Unveiled with Esprit Alpine Flagship Trim

The Renault Arkana, also known as the Megane Conquest and XM3 in different markets, was one of the earliest coupe-SUVs to make its way to Europe. Launched in October 2020, this sleek compact car is already receiving a mid-cycle update. Building on the success of the original model, which has sold 163,000 units in Europe and a total of 240,000 units including the XM3 in South Korea.

The 2024 Arkana is the latest Renault model to feature the updated corporate logo and comes with various accents depending on the trim level – black, satin chrome, or dark chrome. The lineup has been simplified, now offering three versions: Evolution, Techno, and Esprit Alpine, which replaces the RS Line and serves as the top-of-the-line version. Other subtle changes include partially tinted lights and dark accents replacing silver.


News

First drive: Review of the Volkswagen Passat prototype

Volkswagen is working on two new petrol-electric plug-in hybrid (PHEV) drivetrains for the Passat prototype. These drivetrains use a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine combined with an electric motor mounted on the gearbox. The output varies between 201bhp and 268bhp. The battery size will also increase, around 26kWh, giving the car an electric range of 80 miles. Furthermore, the PHEVs will have faster AC and DC charging capabilities.

To start the car, you simply press the start button and place the gear controller in the ‘D’ position.

The interior of the new Passat has been updated, with a new interface and menu structure for the infotainment system. This makes the car easy to operate, and the quality of the interior has also improved.

The turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine provides good acceleration and performance, with flexible power delivery in the low to mid-range. The engine feels refined and smooth.

The seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox reacts quickly, giving the car a pleasingly long-legged feel at higher speeds. However, it may hesitate to downshift for more acceleration.

The steering is accurate and well-weighted, with better feedback than before. The suspension changes have improved the handling, adding agility and better body control. The new Passat is sharper and more enjoyable to drive compared to its predecessor. It is easy to handle and maneuver on the road, but it is not a sporty or athletic car.

The new Passat benefits from twin-valve dampers, which improve absorption and rebound properties. This results in a smoother ride, even on rough roads.

Although still in development, the first drive of the new Passat shows that it is already a better car than its popular predecessor. The changes made to the estate version ensure that it maintains the practicality and qualities that buyers expect and demand.

News

Peugeot 208: Europe’s Best-Selling Car Gets Hybrid Powertrains and a Sportier Look

The popular Peugeot 208 has undergone a comprehensive upgrade, including the addition of two new hybrid powertrains, an enhanced exterior design, and various interior improvements.

The new hybrid options, which are also available in the facelifted Vauxhall Corsa, combine 99bhp and 134bhp petrol engines with a six-speed automatic gearbox that features an integrated 48V electric motor. This electrification results in a torque boost at low revs and a 15% increase in fuel efficiency. Peugeot claims that these hybrids operate in pure-electric mode for more than 50% of the time in urban environments.

The existing 74bhp and 99bhp petrol engines remain in the lineup, paired with a five-speed manual and a six-speed manual respectively. However, the 100bhp diesel engine has been discontinued.

The electric variant of the Peugeot 208, known as the e-208, now comes with a new 154bhp motor and a larger 51kWh battery, providing a range of 248 miles on a single charge. Peugeot asserts that the battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in less than 25 minutes using a 100kW charger.

The exterior design of the Peugeot 208 has been updated to match the refreshed 508 and 2008 models. It features a more prominent tri-fang daytime running light signature, a wider front grille, and a rear light bar with three red ‘claws’ extending across the entire width of the boot.

Inside the car, a 10.0in touchscreen is now standard across all trim levels, although a high-definition panel is reserved for Allure and GT models. The distinctive i-Cockpit dashboard design remains, with a small, uniquely shaped steering wheel positioned below the instrument cluster.

A range of advanced driver assistance systems has been added to the Peugeot 208 to meet the new GSR2 safety standards set by the European Union. These include adaptive cruise control, road sign recognition, lane-keeping assistance, and an optional 360-degree parking camera.

The Peugeot 208 is available in three trim levels: Active, Allure, and GT. The price of each trim level is expected to increase slightly. Currently, the 208 starts at £20,610 for the 1.2 Puretech Active and goes up to £34,845 for the e-208 GT.

News

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE: Replacing the C-Class and E-Class Coupes

The new Mercedes-Benz CLE will initially be available only as a coupe. However, a convertible version with an automatic multi-layered fabric hood is set to be launched later this year.

There is no information yet on the pricing for either model in the UK, but it is expected to be above £50,000.

First Ride: New Mercedes CLE

Mercedes-Benz has made the decision to replace the C-Class and E-Class coupes and cabriolets with the CLE coupe and cabriolet models. This means that instead of four models, there will now only be two.

During an initial ride in a validation prototype with low mileage on smooth roads near the Mercedes-Benz factory in Sindelfingen, Germany, it became clear that the new CLE maintains the overall on-road character of its predecessor models.

Inside, there are numerous styling cues taken from the C-Class saloon and estate. However, the CLE coupe has a lower seating position in the front, giving it a sportier feel. Improved perceived quality can be seen in comparison to the old C-Class and E-Class coupes and cabriolets, as well as better performance of the infotainment system. The system uses the latest version of the Mercedes-Benz MBUX operating system, providing faster response times and higher resolution on new-generation displays.

In its initial configuration with a top-of-the-line six-cylinder petrol engine, the CLE coupe delivers smooth and effortless performance. The prototype also excels in mechanical refinement and effectively reduces wind noise at typical motorway speeds.

Featured

Explained: 2023 Kia Seltos And Its Variant-wise Colour And Powertrain Options


Apart from design changes inside and out and feature additions, the 2023 Kia Seltos also receives a new Pewter Olive exterior shade.

Kia Seltos

  • Bookings for the 2023 Kia Seltos will start from July 14.

  • The compact SUV will now be offered in three broad variants: Tech Line, GT Line and X-Line.

  • The facelifted Seltos now also gets the option of a new 160PS 1.5-litre T-GDi (turbo) petrol engine.

  • Now gets an enhanced feature list, including a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone control and full suite advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features.

  • Expected to be priced from Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards.

The 2023 Kia Seltos has been unveiled in India, showcasing its refreshed design and improved range of features. While the prices for the updated Kia SUV are yet to be revealed, interested buyers can start placing their orders from July 14. Ahead of that,  the carmaker has provided a list of variant-wise color and powertrain options for the 2023 Seltos. 

The 2023 Seltos can be had in three broad variants – Tech Line, GT Line and X-Line. The Tech Line variant is further categorised into HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX and HTX+ trims, while the GT Line gets a single fully loaded trim, namely GTX+. The X-Line variant on the other hand comes in an exclusive Matte Graphite colour option. 

Colour Options

Sparkling Silver (HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)

Kia Seltos Sparkling Sliver

(New) Pewter Olive (HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)

Kia Seltos Pewter Olive

Gravity Grey (HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)

Kia Seltos Grey

Intense Red (HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)

Kia Seltos Red

Imperial Blue (HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)

Kia Seltos Blue

Glacier White Pearl (HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)

Kia Seltos White

Aurora Black Pearl (HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)

Kia Seltos Black

Glacier White Pearl With Black Roof (HTX+ and GTX+)

Kia Seltos White DT

Intense Red With Black Roof (HTX+ And GTX+)

Kia Seltos Red DT

Clear White (HTE and HTK)

Xclusive Matte Graphite (X-Line variant)

As seen above, the 2023 Seltos is available in two distinct white shades. The Clear White color is offered on the base-spec HTE and HTK variants, while the Glacier White Pearl option is available on all other higher-spec trims starting from HTK+. Furthermore, the dual-tone paint schemes are exclusively offered in Glacier White Pearl and Intense Red color options, limited to the top-spec HTX+ and GTX+ variants.

On the other hand, the Aurora Black Pearl shade is not offered with HTE, HTK and HTX+ variants of the facelifted Kia SUV. The Sparkling Silver colour is standard across all trims of the 2023 Seltos.

Variant-wise Engine/Gearbox Options

 

HTE

HTK

HTK+

HTX

HTX+

GTX+

X-Line

1.5-litre Petrol MT

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

      

1.5-litre Petrol CVT

      

Yes

      

1.5-litre Turbo-petrol iMT

    

Yes

  

Yes

    

1.5-litre Turbo-petrol DCT

        

Yes

Yes

Yes

1.5-litre Diesel iMT

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

    

1.5-litre Diesel AT

      

Yes

  

Yes

Yes

The 2023 Seltos is offered with a total of three engine and five transmission options, with their combinations varying depending on the chosen variants. The 1.5-liter engine delivers an output of 115PS and a torque of 144Nm, available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic transmission. As for the 1.5-liter diesel engine, it generates 116PS of power and 250Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed clutchless manual (iMT) or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Seltos now also come with a new 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, which makes 160PS and 253Nm, and comes paired with either a 6-speed iMT or a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT).

Expected Price and Rivals

Prices of the 2023 Kia Seltos, with its updated looks and amenities, are expected to start from Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards. Once launched, it will continue its rivalry with other compact SUVs like Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun and MG Astor.

Read More on : Kia Seltos diesel

News

Husqvarna And Puma Collaborate On Nitro 2 Husqvarna Edition Shoes

If you’re a fan of Husqvarna Motorcycles and in the market for a new pair of sneakers, then you’re in luck. On July 4, 2023, Husky and Puma officially released their latest collaboration, the Puma Nitro 2 Husqvarna Edition all-distance running shoes. These shoes are part of Husqvarna’s 2023 Team Wear collection and are already worn by Husqvarna’s Factory Racing Teams in motorsport.

The Puma Nitro 2 Husqvarna Edition shoes feature the iconic colors of Husqvarna, with shades of blue and yellow inspired by the Swedish flag. The design includes both darker and lighter shades of blue, as well as bright yellow accents, including the Puma logo on the toe. The shoes also incorporate white and silver elements, such as the Husqvarna logo on the other side of the toe.

Puma has designed the Nitro 2 shoes with its proprietary Nitro Foam, which offers excellent responsiveness and cushioning while being lightweight. The sole utilizes Puma’s Pumagrip rubber compound, providing grip on any surface. The heel area is reinforced with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) for extra stability, similar to dedicated motorcycle boots.

The Puma Nitro 2 Husqvarna Edition shoes have a timeless design that looks modern and ageless. They are exclusively available through authorized Husqvarna Motorcycles dealers.

Pricing and availability may vary by region, so it’s best to contact your local authorized Husqvarna dealer for accurate information.

Motorsport

Caterham Project V Teases Rear Ahead Of July 12 Debut

Caterham has released a new teaser for the Project V EV, giving us a glimpse of the vehicle’s rear. The British automaker has also shared a short video showing a bit more of the body. The Project V will make its debut on July 12 and will be on display at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, starting on July 13.

The rear of the Project V features prominent oval-shaped taillights, while the roof has a rounded shape. When viewed from the side, the vehicle has arching fenders, and the front nose has large inlets in the lower corners. However, the teaser image only reveals the horizontal running lights, and the main lamps are not visible.

 

Based on the teasers, it appears that the Project V is a two-seater, and the rear seat might be cramped if it exists at all. Unfortunately, there are no images or videos showcasing the cabin or dashboard layout.

The look of the Project V was created by Italdesign. Unlike Caterham’s classic Seven models, this one features an actual roof, and the brand claims that it showcases their new styling language.

Caterham Project V </section> <section contenteditable= Caterham Project V concept teaser image

Caterham has not yet disclosed any mechanical details about the Project V, except to mention that it features a fully electric powertrain. Given the brand’s reputation for building lightweight vehicles, it remains to be seen whether the EV can maintain the low mass seen in their previous offerings.

After its debut at Goodwood, the exact date of the start of Project V deliveries is still unknown. Additionally, the price of the model has yet to be revealed.

Caterham began teasing the Project V shortly after unveiling the EV Seven, a one-off proof of concept. The EV Seven is equipped with an electric motor producing 240 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. With this power, it can reach 60 miles per hour in just 4.0 seconds. Impressively, the EV Seven weighs only 154 pounds more than the existing combustion-powered Seven 485.

In April 2023, Caterham began moving to a new 54,000-square-foot headquarters in Dartford, Kent, England. This new facility brings together all production, engineering, motorsport, and commercial employees under one roof. The company aims to increase production by 50 percent, to around 750 cars per year.

Featured

Save Over Rs 73,000 On Honda Sedans This July


This time, Honda is also offering a special corporate discount in addition to the standard corporate discount on the City

Honda City and Amaze

  • Customers can get maximum benefits of over Rs 73,000 with Honda City.

  • The Amaze can be purchased with discounts of over Rs 23,000.

  • Offers are valid until the end of July 2023.

Honda has introduced July offers on both City and Amaze sedans, applicable until 31st July. The City is being offered with the highest perks, followed by discounts on Honda Amaze. The carmaker is also providing additional corporate and exchange benefits with the City. Let’s take a look at the offer details for each model.

Fifth-gen City

Honda City

Offers

Amount

Cash Discount

Up to Rs 10,000

Free Accessories (Optional)

Up to Rs 10,946

Loyalty Bonus

Up to Rs 5,000

Honda Car Exchange Bonus

Up to Rs 20,000

Exchange Bonus

Up to Rs 10,000

Corporate Discount

Up to Rs 8,000

Special Corporate Discount

Up to Rs 20,000

Maximum Benefits

Up to Rs 73,946

  • Customers have the option to choose between a cash discount or receiving free accessories.

  • This time, the City also comes with a special corporate discount of Rs 20,000 in addition to the standard corporate benefit of Rs 8,000.

  • Existing Honda customers can avail an exchange bonus of Rs 20,000.

  • Non-existing Honda customers are eligible for an additional exchange bonus of Rs 8,000.

  • The Honda City is priced from Rs 11.57 lakh to Rs 16.05 lakh.

Also Check Out: Bookings Open For Honda Elevate, Variant Lineup Revealed

Amaze

Honda Amaze

Offers

Amount

Cash Discount

Up to Rs 10,000

Free Accessories (Optional)

Up to Rs 12,296

Loyalty Bonus

Up to Rs 5,000

Corporate Discount

Up to 6,000

Maximum Benefits

Up to Rs 23,296

  • The Honda Amaze does not receive an exchange bonus or special corporate discounts.

  • Honda is offering its subcompact sedan with a corporate discount of Rs 6,000.

  • The Amaze is priced in the range of Rs 7.05 lakh to Rs 9.66 lakh.

Note

  • The offers mentioned above may vary depending on the city and state, so please contact your nearest Honda dealership for more details.

  • All prices are ex-showroom Delhi.

Read More on : Honda City on road price

Featured

Car News Roundup: New Teasers, Updates on Upcoming Cars, Spy Shots, and More


This week in car news: New teaser from Kia, updates on upcoming cars, recall announcement, and more

In the final week of June, there were several notable events in the automotive world. Kia released a new teaser for an upcoming compact SUV, and Skoda provided updates on its flagship SUV. Additionally, there was news of a potential increase in highway toll prices. Let’s take a closer look at the major headlines from the week.

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Heading to Australia

Maruti Jimny

The popular 5-door Maruti Suzuki Jimny, already available in India, will soon be launched in Australia. While specific details about the Australian version are currently limited, it is expected to offer an improved safety features package compared to the Indian model.

First Teaser Released for 2023 Kia Seltos

Facelifted Kia Seltos DRLs

Ahead of its India debut, Kia released the first teaser for the facelifted version of the Seltos. The teaser provided a detailed look at the updated interior, which closely resembles the international variant of the compact SUV.

Recall Announced for Kia Carens

Kia Carens

Kia issued a recall for certain units of the Carens due to a potential software issue in one of its electronic components. The affected owners will be directly notified by the carmaker. This is the second recall for the Kia MPV within a year.

New Details Revealed for 2024 Skoda Kodiaq

2024 Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda is gearing up to globally unveil the second-generation Kodiaq. Prior to the official reveal, the Czech automaker released new details about the SUV, including a wide range of powertrain options.

Milestones Achieved

This week, two popular Indian SUVs reached significant production and sales milestones. Mahindra celebrated the production of the 9 lakhth Scorpio unit, while Tata announced that the Nexon EV had achieved 50,000 unit sales in India.

Update on 5-Door Mahindra Thar Unveiling

There have been rumors circulating on the internet about the 5-door version of the Mahindra Thar making its debut on August 15 in South Africa. However, Mahindra has clarified the situation and provided an update on the unveiling of the 5-door variant.

Spy Shots Unveiled

Last week’s spy shots featured two upcoming SUVs: the facelifted Kia Seltos and the Tata Punch EV. New images of the Tech Line variants of the updated Seltos were leaked, providing a glimpse of its interior. Additionally, spy shots showcased the revamped interior of the Tata Punch EV.

Toll Prices Set to Increase

Toll Plaza

Unfortunately, road trips are set to become more expensive as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to raise toll prices annually. The increased toll fees will allow NHAI to recover its debts at a faster rate.

Motorsport

Toyota Supra Scale Model Made From PVC Is Fast, Furious, And Amazing

Polyvinyl chloride – also known as polyvinyl or PVC – is a widely used synthetic polymer plastic. It is commonly used in various applications such as plumbing, electrical cable insulation, flooring, signage, phonograph records, and even inflatable products. However, an extraordinary creation using PVC has emerged – a scale model of a Toyota Supra.

A 17-minute video, uploaded by the Ank Creative YouTube channel, showcases the building process of an intricately detailed fourth-generation Supra made entirely from PVC. This model is not just a mere drawing on a PVC board; it is a three-dimensional replica that accurately replicates the exterior panels of the actual car.

The construction process begins by cutting the basic shapes of the Japanese sports coupe and then proceeds to refine and polish the surfaces. The most challenging part involves creating and installing the small details, such as headlights, grilles, and exterior trim. Once the exterior is complete, attention is turned to the fully equipped cabin, complete with a dashboard, center console, and seats.

Once the entire build is molded and assembled, the Supra Mk4 receives an eye-catching orange exterior with green and black decals inspired by the Fast and Furious movie franchise. The scale car features rotating wheels and functioning doors that can be opened. The level of detail achieved is remarkable, especially considering that this model did not start as a computer drawing and was not produced by a 3D printer.

At Motor1.com, we appreciate all kinds of automotive toys crafted by talented enthusiasts. We often feature impressive wooden model builds, but this PVC-based Toyota Supra takes creativity to another level.