Tag Archives: December

Featured

Some Dealerships Are Now Taking Bookings For The Facelifted Kia Sonet

The facelifted Kia Sonet might be unveiled on December 14 and can go on sale someday in early 2024

2024 Kia Sonet offline bookings open

  • Kia launched the Sonet in 2020 in India, now giving the SUV its first correct replace.

  • To get a revised grille, related LED hind lights, and redesigned alloy wheels.

  • Cabin updates may embrace a digital driver’s show and new seat upholstery.

  • Expected to return with a ten.25-inch touchscreen, 6 normal airbags and ADAS.

  • To be powered by the identical petrol and diesel engines because the outgoing mannequin.

  • Prices may begin from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom).

The facelifted India-spec Kia Sonet is about to debut on December 14. Kia not too long ago confirmed the identical and even gave us a sneak peek of the up to date SUV. Now, a couple of dealerships have began accepting offline bookings for the brand new Sonet. Here’s what’s recognized to this point:

Expected Set Of Powertrains

We usually are not anticipating any main adjustments to the powertrains of Kia’s sub-4m SUV. Even with the replace, it ought to proceed with the identical choices as under:

Specifications

1.2-litre N.A. Petrol

1-litre Turbo-petrol

1.5-litre Diesel

Power

83 PS

120 PS

116 PS

Torque

115 Nm

172 Nm

250 Nm

Transmission

5-speed MT

6-speed iMT/ 7-speed DCT

6-speed iMT/ 6-speed AT

There have been stories on-line suggesting the potential of Kia re-introducing a 6-speed handbook gearbox with the diesel engine as a substitute of the iMT (handbook with out clutch pedal). However, we might suggest holding on for some time to see if that involves fruition on the facelifted SUV.

A Fresh Look

Kia Sonet facelift

Kia has sharpened the outside design of the Sonet with the midlife replace by giving it longer fang-shaped LED DRLs, a revised grille and repositioned LED fog lamps. Other exterior adjustments will embrace a distinct set of alloy wheels and related LED hind lights.

How Different Will It Be On The Inside?

Kia Sonet facelift 10.25-inch touchscreen

We anticipate the carmaker to present the 2024 Sonet a brand new seat upholstery and local weather management panel. The facelifted SUV’s teaser confirmed it had the identical 10.25-inch touchscreen because the outgoing mannequin.

What Other Features Can You Expect?

New options on board the facelifted Sonet will seemingly embrace a digital driver’s show (from the brand new Seltos) and a 360-degree digital camera. Kia will proceed to supply the SUV with wi-fi cellphone charging, ventilated entrance seats, a single-pane sunroof, and cruise management.

Its security package is predicted to pack six airbags as normal, entrance and rear parking sensors, hill-hold help, and perhaps even superior driver help methods (ADAS).

Also Read: All The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Buying A New Car At The End Of A Calendar Year

Estimated Price And Competitors

The Kia Sonet facelift is predicted to be priced from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom) when it goes on sale in early 2024. It will proceed to compete with the Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV300, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger and Maruti Fronx crossover.

Read More on : Sonet Automatic

Featured

First Official Glimpse Of Kia Sonet Facelift Out Now


The facelifted Sonet will be revealed in India on December 14

Kia Sonet facelift teased

  • Kia introduced the Sonet in India back in 2020.

  • The first teaser highlights the updated grille, LED DRLs, headlights, and fog lamps.

  • Possible cabin updates may involve new upholstery and a revised climate control panel.

  • New features may include a 360-degree camera and potentially ADAS.

  • It will carry over the existing Sonet’s petrol and diesel engine-gearbox options.

  • Expected starting price is around Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom).

Recently, Kia confirmed the unveiling date of the Kia Sonet facelift by releasing the first teaser of the updated SUV.

Details Observed

The teaser provides a preview of the facelifted SUV’s front end, showcasing a modified grille design, sharper multi-reflector LED headlight clusters, and fang-shaped LED DRLs. Additionally, it reveals a different front bumper design with sleeker LED fog lamps compared to the current model’s halogen projector units.

Furthermore, the teaser reveals a revised alloy wheel design, blacked-out ORVM housings, and a black roof. The details of the rear end are yet to be disclosed, but it is expected to feature a connected LED taillight setup similar to the facelifted Kia Seltos.

Cabin And Feature Changes

Kia Sonet facelift 10.25-inch touchscreen

While the exterior sees significant changes, the interior of the new Kia Sonet is not expected to undergo major modifications. However, Kia might introduce fresh upholstery and potentially revamp the climate control panel. The teaser also confirms the presence of the same 10.25-inch infotainment screen and central AC vents as the current model.

It is anticipated that the facelifted Sonet will come equipped with a semi-digital instrument cluster and a 360-degree camera. Apart from these, the Sonet will continue to offer features such as ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging, cruise control, and a single-pane sunroof.

In terms of safety, Kia may offer six airbags as standard, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), front and rear parking sensors, as well as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Familiar Driving Force

The facelifted Kia Sonet will retain the current model’s powertrain options, including a 1.2-litre petrol engine, a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine, all paired with various gearbox options.

Also Read: All The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Buying A New Car At The End Of A Calendar Year

Price And Rivals

Kia Sonet facelift teased

When it goes on sale early next year, the 2024 Kia Sonet is anticipated to start at a price of Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). It will continue to compete against the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, Mahindra XUV300, Renault Kiger, Nissan Magnite, and the Maruti Fronx crossover.

Read More on : Kia Sonet Automatic

Lexus

LEXUS “DECEMBER TO REMEMBER”: MOMENTS BEHIND THE ICONIC BIG RED BOW

PLANO, Texas (Nov. 20, 2023) — This year, Lexus’ annual “December to Remember” campaign goes beyond the iconic big red bow, focusing on the magic and thoughtful moments at the heart of the holiday season. In the campaign debuting today, Lexus will feature two new heartwarming broadcast commercials, “Overnight Lexus” and “Sled Dogs” as well as a unique holiday-themed collaboration with TikTok content creator @sebastianjern and a dramatic digital activation on Sphere in Las Vegas featuring the all-new 2024 Lexus GX.

“The focus of this year’s ‘December to Remember’ campaign is to intentionally celebrate the special moments that can’t be wrapped – from thoughtful surprises to making memories with loved ones,” said Vinay Shahani, vice president Lexus marketing. “We’re amplifying the spirit of the season year-round through curated marketing efforts and purposeful partnerships.”

Two New “December to Remember” Broadcast Spots

Lexus adds two all-new commercials to its “December to Remember” campaign, highlighting thoughtful surprises and the magic of the season.

In “Sled Dogs,” audiences are introduced to the all-new 2024 Lexus GX as it effortlessly travels down the road on snow-covered terrain. A woman sits confidently behind the wheel, while a Siberian Husky secured in the second-row stares ahead, seemingly barking orders. With the help of her furry companion, the driver navigates the GX to a secluded offroad area to find the dog’s owner and four-legged friends working on their broken sled. Grateful to be reunited, they drive off warm and cozy in the GX.

“Overnight Lexus” opens in a boy’s bedroom as his father sits bedside, reading him a familiar tale about magic beans that grow overnight. Upon seeing his son is asleep, Dad turns off the light and exits the room. As the door closes, the boy sneaks out to the family’s front yard to pack a toy Lexus under the snow in hopes the story is true. The next morning, the boy wakes excited to find a brand-new, full-size 2024 Lexus TX wrapped in a giant red bow, calling for Dad and Mom in wonderment at the surprise.

In addition to the two spots, Lexus also brings back its popular 2022 “December to Remember” commercial, “Time Machine,” featuring a heartwarming holiday family reunion storyline.

All three broadcast spots will air on cable, primetime, late night and sports programming now through January 2, 2024.

Amazing Holiday Experiences: Big and Small

Lexus is bringing to life the campaign’s iconic imagery in unique digital spaces this holiday season.

Tapping Las Vegas’ new landmark entertainment venue, Sphere, Lexus will debut a captivating ninety-second digital installation across its 580,000 sq. ft. LED exterior. Visitors will be entranced by a snow-covered globe’s icy exterior cracking open to reveal an all-new 2024 Lexus GX adorned with the brand’s signature big red bow. Las Vegas visitors can view the new holiday campaign live, November 20 – 26, 2023.

Continuing the momentum the brand has made in reaching a younger audience, Lexus has partnered with TikTok content creator, cinematographer, and VFX and miniature artist, Sebastian Jern (@sebastianjern). Tying into the popular TikTok miniatures trend, the brand has collaborated with Jern to create an intricate, miniature winter landscape featuring a Lexus RX topped with the automaker’s iconic holiday big red bow.

Lexus continues to be a proud partner of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and will donate $150,000 this holiday season to support their important work in the community.

About Lexus

Lexus’ passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables the luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing experiences for its customers. Lexus began its journey in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury customers in more than 90 countries. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 244 dealers offering a full lineup of luxury vehicles. With eight models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers nine F SPORT models, one F performance model and one F model. Lexus is committed to being a visionary brand that anticipates the future for luxury customers.

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Note to Editors: Lexus product information and images are available online via our news media website http://LexusNewsroom.com.

News

Petrol Jeep Avenger now available in limited quantities

Petrol versions of the Jeep Avenger will be released in the UK in December 2023. The new mild-hybrid variant is set to follow in the second quarter of 2024.

The petrol version will be priced starting from £27,000 and will only come with a manual gearbox. It will be available in very limited numbers.

On the other hand, the mild-hybrid powertrain variant is anticipated to have a starting price of around £30,000 upon its release in December 2023.

The petrol Avenger was initially intended for sale in Italy, Poland, and Spain due to the lack of substantial EV infrastructure in these markets. However, due to high demand from UK dealers, it will now also be sold in the UK.

Jeep stated that the petrol variant will cater to the preferences of its customers, as 80% of its sales consist of pure-ICE vehicles.

Paul Rush, the UK product boss, mentioned, “They [European bosses] asked us to take some. It was a no-brainer to say yes.”

When asked about the possibility of more units being available, Rush indicated that it was unlikely to be more than “a couple thousand” in total.

Petrol Jeep Avenger Details

The petrol Avenger is equipped with a turbocharged three-cylinder 1.2-litre Puretech engine, which is utilized by several other Stellantis models, including the Vauxhall Corsa, the Peugeot 308, and Citroën C3 Aircross.

This small SUV, priced at around £27,000 (which is £8500 less than the EV), will only be available in Altitude Plus trim, with no additional options aside from the paint color.

Mild-hybrid Jeep Avenger

The mild-hybrid model, expected to have a starting price of around £30,000, will utilize the same 1.2 Puretech 48V unit found in the Peugeot 3008. This petrol engine is combined with a 28bhp electric motor integrated into a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

It will be offered in Longitude, Altitude, and Summit specifications, aligning with the electric car version of the Avenger.

Technology

Why The M4 Sherman Dominated The Battlefield Long After WW2

The United States officially joined the Allies in World War II in December of 1940 and introduced a new level of military might. In 1942, the nation developed the M4 Sherman tank, which was a medium tank, a step above the M3 Lee (and its British variant, the Grant), used earlier in the conflict. According to historian David Fletcher, in an episode of The Tank Museum’s Tank Chats, once the Sherman came along, it completely eclipsed its predecessors, which were pretty much abandoned at that time.

At the time, the U.S. military intended the tanks to focus on infantry support rather than providing the defenses and offenses required for armored combat. However, it wasn’t always an effective match for the Panther and Tiger tanks it faced. Its key advantage was its low-maintenance and easy-to-fix design, which allowed the model to keep a massive fleet in the field, a crucial factor during WWII. Around 50,000 Shermans were built up to 1945, making it America’s most-used tank model.

BMW

Gulf 12 Hours: IGTC title decider for BMW and three works drivers – Valentino Rossi to begin in Abu Dhabi.

Munich. At the season finale of the Intercontinental GT Challenge (IGTC), the Gulf 12 Hours on tenth December 2023, in Abu Dhabi (UAE), BMW and the three BMW M works drivers, Philipp Eng (AUT), Sheldon van der Linde (RSA), and Dries Vanthoor (BEL), are vying for titles within the producer and driver standings. Valentino Rossi (ITA) will compete on the Yas Marina Circuit within the #46 BMW M4 GT3 of BMW M Team WRT for the primary time.

 

In whole, BMW M Team WRT is fielding two automobiles and 6 BMW M works drivers. Eng and van der Linde are supported of their title pursuit by Charles Weerts (BEL) within the #32 BMW M4 GT3. In the #46 BMW M4 GT3, alongside Rossi and title contender Vanthoor, Nick Yelloly (GBR) will compete.

BMW is main the producer standings within the IGTC with 133 factors forward of the ultimate season race, however solely holds a nine-point lead over Mercedes. With victories on the Kyalami 9 Hour (RSA), the 24h Spa-Francorchamps (BEL), and the Indianapolis 8 Hour (USA), BMW M Motorsport groups have received three out of 4 IGTC season races. Only at Bathurst (AUS) on the season opener did they miss the rostrum. In the driving force standings, Eng is at the moment in second place, trailing the chief Jules Gounon (FRA, Mercedes) by eight factors, following his wins at Spa-Francorchamps and Indianapolis, in addition to a second-place end at Kyalami. Van der Linde and Vanthoor, who received along with Eng at Indianapolis a number of weeks in the past, are six factors behind in third place.

Quotes forward of the Gulf 12 Hours.

Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “It’s fantastic to be able to compete for titles at the end of such a long and eventful season. The Intercontinental GT Challenge 2023 has been an incredible journey across five continents, delivering significant victories at Kyalami, Indianapolis, and especially the season highlight at Spa-Francorchamps. We can already say that our commitment to this race series has been more than worthwhile. Thanks to our winning teams WRT and ROWE Racing for their efforts, to our drivers for their top performances, and to all our colleagues at BMW M Motorsport. Now we want to crown the year in Abu Dhabi with titles in the manufacturer and driver standings!”

Philipp Eng (#32 BMW M4 GT3): “I’m very excited to enter the title fight in Abu Dhabi. The circuit is a lot of fun. It has changed a bit since I was last there in 2013, but I believe it should play to the strengths of our BMW M4 GT3. I have great teammates and a fantastic team. Of course, the competition is strong, but our chances are good.”

Valentino Rossi (#46 BMW M4 GT3): “Im a very happy to return to the Yas Marina Circuit. I did this race once in the past with a Ferrari and it was a great race, we finished third overall. I enjoyed it a lot, the track is fantastic. This year, the level of the race will be a lot higher with many fast cars and works drivers on the grid. We will see how we will perform and I can’t wait to race the BMW M4 GT3 at the Yas Marina Circuit. That will be a lot of fun.”

 

 

Technology

10 Of The Worst Military Bombers Ever Made

The Blackburn B-26 Botha reconnaissance and torpedo bomber was first tested by the RAF on December 28, 1938. Unfortunately, the results were disappointing. The aircraft had numerous issues including poor stability, ineffective elevator control, and a high stalling speed. Additionally, there were problems with exhaust fumes entering the cockpit.

The Botha was powered by two 880 hp Bristol Perseus X (later aircraft had 930 hp Perseus XA) engines, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 220 mph at 15,000 ft and have a range of 1,270 miles. Its armament included a forward-firing Vickers machine gun, two rear-mounted Lewis MkIII guns, and the capability to either carry an 18-inch torpedo or 2,000 pounds of bombs. However, when fully loaded with weapons and carrying four crew members (pilot, wireless operator, navigator, and gunner), the Botha suffered from a noticeable lack of power. Despite being built in 580 units between 1939 and 1944, the aircraft’s poor performance led to only one squadron utilizing it for operational service during the war.

In 1940, the Botha was only able to conduct reconnaissance patrols in the non-threatening North Sea for six months before being withdrawn. It never fulfilled its intended role as a torpedo bomber. Instead, the RAF allocated 478 aircraft to training establishments for exercises related to reconnaissance, navigation, bombing, and gunnery. Some aircraft were also utilized as target tugs. By the time the Botha was retired, a staggering 169 units had been involved in accidents.

Motorsport

2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe Spotted Testing With Notable Design Features

In December 2021, Genesis hinted at the possibility of a GV80 Coupe, and in April of this year, a concept version was unveiled at the New York Auto Show. Following this debut, Hyundai’s luxury division confirmed its plans to release a production GV80 Coupe, which is expected to arrive next year as a 2025 model in the United States. However, before series production begins, extensive testing is still required.

The GV80 Coupe, which aims to compete with the likes of the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe, was initially spied in February 2023. At that time, it was heavily camouflaged, but the latest spy photos reveal more details as the camouflage has been significantly reduced. Notable design updates include an updated front grille, prominent air intakes, and striking quad exhaust tips. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with large two-tone wheels fitted with high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.


Featured

Here’s How The Mahindra XUV e8 (XUV 700 Electric) Could Look Different From Its Concept Version


The electric version of the Mahindra XUV700 will debut by December 2024

Mahindra XUV700 EV

  • The leaked design patent of the XUV700 EV shows it would look quite similar to its concept version.

  • Will get a new nose, different lighting setup, fresh alloys, and bronze elements to differentiate from the ICE version.

  • To be offered with two battery pack options with a range of up to 450 kilometres.

  • An all-wheel drivetrain (AWD) would also be on offer.

The Mahindra XUV.e8 (electric XUV700) is all set to launch in 2025 as one of the earliest mass-market three-row electric cars in India. Ahead of its debut, a patent design image of the XUV.e8 has been leaked, giving us an idea of what the production-spec model could look like.

Minimal Design Changes

The concept version of the XUV.e8 was showcased on August 15, 2022, alongside several other Mahindra electric SUV concepts of different sizes. The design in the patent image looks nearly identical to the concept, complete with the aerodynamically optimised wheels. It essentially looks like the concept version without the black camouflage, but in white colour with bronze accents.

It carries a full length LED DRL strip along the bonnet line which extends downwards like fangs towards the bumpers. The nose looks completely different from the XUV700 (internal combustion engine SUV), sporting a closed grille with patterns. The triangular-shaped headlamp setup looks unique, especially with the ice-cubed LED elements. All the bronze accents are part of the design language for Mahindra EVs as seen on the XUV400.

Also Read: Upcoming Electric Cars In India

Expected Range & Battery

Mahindra XUV.e8 front

The electric XUV700 will offer single and dual electric motor setup, with the possibility of an AWD option. Two battery packs of 60kWh and 80kWh are expected, with the larger pack offering a WLTP claimed range of 450 kilometres. It will also be able to support fast charging capabilities of up to 175kW.

Also Read: Mahindra XUV.e8, XUV700’s All-electric Version, Detailed In Images

The XUV.e8 is expected to be priced around the Rs 35 lakh mark. It will rival similarly priced alternatives like the BYD Atto 3, while being a premium and bigger alternative to the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona electric.