PEUGEOT has revealed new powertrain choices for its well-liked 308 and 408 fashions. 308 and 408 fashions will achieve the brand new HYBRID 136 powertrain, coupled with a brand new six-speed dual-clutch automated gearbox that comes with an electrical motor and 48V battery.
308 and 408 fashions now function the brand new HYBRID 136 e-DSC6 powertrain. The next-generation HYBRID 136 e-DSC6 powertrain combines a 1.2-litre petrol engine with a brand new six-speed dual-clutch automated gearbox incorporating a 21kW (28hp) electrical motor and a 0.9kWh 48V Lithium-ion battery to ship improved effectivity and further torque at low revs.
The new hybrid powertrain can function greater than 50% of the time in zero-emission all-electric mode throughout low-speed city cruising providing improved gas financial system of as much as 15% for fewer journeys to the pumps, and a discount in CO2 of as much as 22g/km for the 408 and 19g/km for the 308 when in comparison with the present PureTech 130 EAT8 engine. Thanks to the CO2 discount, the hybrid powertrain has a decreased fee of Vehicle Excise Duty and a decrease fee of Benefit-in-Kind Tax for firm automobile drivers.
A notable benefit of the brand new hybrid system is that the 48V Lithium-Ion battery recharges itself whereas driving with no must be plugged in. When the battery vitality stage permits, the system allows the automobile to be propelled utilizing the electrical motor alone. Thanks to class-leading vitality effectivity, the 48V battery is sort of compact at simply 0.9kWh and is neatly put in underneath the entrance passenger seat. With the battery positioned up entrance, the 408 and 308 fashions retain all their inside house and haven’t any compromise in addition quantity.
The introduction of the brand new HYBRID 136 for 308 and 408 fashions offers drivers a wider selection of powertrain, while additionally providing extra dynamism for an enhanced driving expertise. The electrical powertrain permits drivers to start their journeys, make difficult manoeuvres, and journey at low speeds in city visitors utilizing solely the electrical mode. When better progress is required, the electrical motor eagerly offers additional torque to the low-rev petrol engine, whereas the battery place provides optimum weight distribution.
On 308, this new powertrain shall be accessible for the ACTIVE, ALLURE, and GT trim ranges. On 408 fashions, the HYBRID 136 e-DSC6 powertrain shall be accessible on the ALLURE and GT trim ranges. Prices for the 308 Hatchback begin from £29,040 OTR MRRP and for the 308 SW from £30,240 OTR MRRP. While the 408 HYBRID is accessible from £32,585 OTR MRRP.
GM aims to gain a competitive edge in the electric vehicle market by offering a small electric truck at a compelling price point, positioning it as an affordable and appealing choice.
To establish dominance over the Toyota Stout EV, GM must prioritize developing a small electric truck with a driving range that rivals or surpasses the anticipated 250-mile benchmark.
GM’s compact electric trucks must embrace advanced technology and superior features, ensuring seamless integration and a superior user experience to outpace the Toyota Stout EV.
In the swiftly evolving realm of electric vehicles, car manufacturers are diligently working to offer inventive and competitive options that cater to a wide array of consumer tastes. General Motors is on the brink of unveiling its compact electric truck, initiating potential competition from Toyota’s Stout EV. With a growing emphasis on eco-friendliness and effectiveness, the pursuit of outshining rivals becomes a pivotal catalyst for advancement.
Here’s an in-depth look at 10 essential characteristics that the GM small electric truck must possess to establish its dominance over the Toyota Stout EV. By addressing critical aspects such as performance, driving range, design, and technological ingenuity, GM aims to chart a new course in the electric truck market and establish a heightened benchmark for distinction.
Related: Why The Rumored Toyota Stout Compact Pickup Is Worth The Wait
1 A Competitive Price That Undercuts The Stout EV’s MSRP
Toyota
The Toyota Stout EV is not yet officially released, so the exact price (or for that matter, even its existence) is not known. However, some experts in the industry have speculated that the Toyota Stout EV’s price could start around $25,000 or $30,000. General Motors (GM) aims to gain a competitive edge in the electric vehicle market, particularly against the Toyota Stout EV, by strategically offering a small electric truck at a compelling price point.
This pricing strategy, underpinned by efficient production processes, optimized supply chains, and economies of scale, seeks to position GM’s electric truck as an affordable and appealing choice. Transparent marketing highlighting long-term savings, coupled with government incentives, can further enhance its allure. By focusing on both cost-effectiveness and quality, GM endeavors to capture a broader consumer base and accelerate the adoption of eco-friendly transportation solutions, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable mobility.
2 Range Higher Than 250 Miles
Toyota
The eagerly anticipated Toyota Stout EV has ignited intriguing speculation regarding its potential driving range, which has been tentatively pegged at around 250 miles per charge. This projection is rooted in the vehicle’s dual-motor all-wheel drive configuration, reminiscent of the Toyota BZ4X—a fellow member of Toyota’s expanding electric fleet, which is said to be mimic the powertrain of the Toyota Stout EV in more ways than one. To assert its prominence and viability in the competitive electric vehicle market, General Motors (GM) must prioritize the development of a small electric truck with an extended driving range that rivals or surpasses the anticipated 250-mile benchmark set by the Toyota Stout EV.
Toyota’s Only EV’s EPA-Estimated Range
Model
Range
2023 Toyota bZ4X XLE FWD
252 Miles
2023 Toyota bZ4X XLE AWD
228 Miles
2023 Toyota bZ4X Limited FWD
242 Miles
2023 Toyota bZ4X Limited AWD
222 Miles
A robust and extensive driving range is a vital element that resonates deeply with consumers, addressing concerns about the limitations of electric vehicles. By engineering advanced battery technologies, optimizing powertrain efficiency, and fine-tuning aerodynamics, GM can create a compelling proposition for potential buyers, instilling confidence in the vehicle’s ability to accommodate both daily commutes and longer journeys.
Related: 10 Reasons Why An Electric Toyota Stout Compact Pickup Is Necessary
3 A Seamless Integration Of Entertainment Features
Toyota
It seems that Toyota with its Toyota Stout EV is drawing heavy inspiration from its already existing electrified lineup. The Stout EV has the potential to rival or even surpass the technological trajectory of the Tacoma. Anticipated tech features include the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a possible JBL sound system, and digital instrumentation.
The interior may harmoniously blend playful and rugged aesthetics, employing durable, colorful materials. In the context of this evolving landscape, General Motors (GM) faces a critical challenge. To outpace the Toyota Stout EV, GM’s compact electric trucks must embrace advanced technology and superior features. This entails a strategic focus on enhancing the technological arsenal, ensuring seamless integration and a superior user experience.
4 A Much More Captivating Exterior
Toyota
Whether Toyota embraces a hybrid or all-electric trajectory, the impending design of the Toyota Stout arouses curiosity. Drawing insights from the Toyota Compact Cruiser EV Concept displayed among the 2021 EV prototypes, the future Stout could harmoniously blend cues from this concept with the recently unveiled Tacoma. This amalgamation might yield an upright, rugged silhouette marked by flared wheel arches, robust shoulders, and a distinctive boxy form. Contemporary elements like LED exterior lighting could punctuate the design.
Practical features such as a spacious bed with power outlets or even a detachable portable speaker, akin to Tacoma’s optional JBL sound system, could enhance the Stout’s utility. General Motors (GM) aspire to outshine Toyota, the onus lies in crafting a design that not only surpasses but captivates. Through an innovative and aesthetically appealing approach, GM can assert a competitive edge, ensuring prominence in the dynamic automotive realm.
Related: Stout TRD Off-Road: Dreaming Up The Perfect Ford Maverick Tremor Rival
5 More Cabin Space Means Better Practicality
Toyota
In the realm of burgeoning electric vehicle competition, General Motors (GM) is poised to fortify its position by amplifying the dimensions of comfort and spaciousness in its small electric vehicle lineup. By recognizing the imperative nature of headroom, legroom, and overall cabin space, GM could embark on an approach to be committed to exceeding consumer expectations.
Comparison Specs
Model
Cabin Space
2023 Rivian R1T
62 cubic-feet
2023 Toyota Tacoma
75 cubic-feet
GM, for its small electric truck, could take inspiration from choices like the Rivian R1T. These diverse options cater to various preferences and needs within the electric truck market. By augmenting its cabin space, GM would stand as a testament to its unwavering pursuit of excellence, setting the stage for head-to-head competition with contenders such as the Toyota Stout EV, and solidifying its stance as a trailblazer in the realm of electric mobility.
6 Aftermarket Support With OTA Software Updates
Toyota
In order to excel beyond the Toyota Stout EV, GM can leverage a robust aftermarket ecosystem for its compact electric truck range, offering an array of customizable parts and accessories to align with individual preferences. Employing modular design principles streamlines manufacturing, repair, and upgrades while enabling the integration of third-party add-ons and accessories.
Simultaneously, GM’s go-to-market strategy can be revitalized by merging online platforms, enhanced offline interactions, and network restructuring to cater effectively to EV customers. By using over-the-air (OTA) software updates, GM can keep its trucks updated and improved over time, adding new features and functionalities that enhance the driving experience.
Related: 10 Ways A Toyota Stout EV Could Beat The F-150 Lightning And Silverado EV
7 Leverage Toyota’s Use Of Solid-State Batteries
Toyota
The 2023 Toyota Stout EV could have a limited battery range due to Toyota’s focus on hybrid and hydrogen tech, impacting its competition with other EVs. The EV market has two main battery types: Ultium (lithium-ion with liquid electrolytes) and solid-state (solid electrolytes). Ultium has a wireless monitoring system for cell health, unlike solid-state. When it comes to range, the Ultium battery tech will offer much lower than the solid-state batteries’ potential to deliver over 900 miles of range.
Ultium is versatile for various EV layouts, used by GM, while Toyota’s solid-state battery tech is expected in 2023. This shows the evolving EV landscape with different technologies for sustainable transport. GM might need to adopt a solid-state for the better range to outcompete the Toyota Stout EV.
8 Better Performance With A High Power Output
Toyota
To build the Stout EV, Toyota might go for the same platform that they have been using for their other vehicles. In this context, the adaptable TNGA-K platform emerges as a strong candidate for underpinning the Stout. The Stout could integrate a hybrid powertrain, potentially leveraging the newly introduced 2.4-liter turbo hybrid arrangement from the TNGA-K-based Crown crossover.
In the U.S., The Rivian R1T offers a quad motor setup that can produce 835 horsepower with a torque of 908 pound-feet. Taking inspiration from the Rivian electric truck, GM’s small electric truck, too, could offer an AWD quad-motor trim, which would catapult its performance much farther than what the Toyota Stout EV could offer.
Related: 10 Features We Want To See On The Rumored Toyota Stout Compact Pickup
9 Better Towing Capabilities
Toyota
Toyota boasts of robust towing strength, one that if GM is able to surpass could allow it to change the game. As both Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Stout EV will be built on the same architecture, their towing capabilities will be similar. It is anticipatable that an approximate towing capacity of 6,800 pounds will be a reasonable projection for the Toyota Stout EV.
On the other hand, for General Motors (GM) to surpass Toyota’s position, it necessitates a proposition exceeding the prevailing Toyota offerings in order to command a competitive edge in the market landscape. GM can increase the engine power and optimize the cooling system for improved towing efficiency and overall performance. Simultaneously, suspension advancements involving the incorporation of air springs, helper springs, or sway bars aim to bolster stability and handling, particularly during heavy load towing scenarios, enhancing the vehicle’s overall towing capability.
10 Fast Charging Time
Toyota
In the realm of small electric trucks in the U.S., charging times exhibit a notable dependency on factors such as charger type, power, battery size, and desired charge level. As per various sources, the employment of an AC on-board charger boasting 43 kW capacity can necessitate approximately ten hours for a full battery recharge from empty – a duration that significantly dwindles to a mere two hours when utilizing a potent DC charger reaching up to 250 kW. It’s crucial to note that these estimations might fluctuate based on the specific model and prevailing conditions of the electric truck.
Comparison Specs
Battery
Added Range
Time Span
2023 Rivian R1T
135 kWh
140 Miles
15 minutes
2023 Ford F-150 Lightning
115 kWh
300 miles
41 minutes
Illustrative instances of prominent small electric trucks in the US encompass the 2023 Rivian R1T, showcasing a battery capacity of 135 kWh and offering a swift DC rapid charging span of 20 minutes for a range extension of 140 miles. Similarly, the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning, equipped with a 115 kWh battery, demonstrates a DC fast charging interval of 41 minutes to augment its range by 300 miles. To compete in the market, GM’s small electric truck needs to meet industry standards in order to beat the Stout EV.
In India, where practical and affordable mobility is essential, electric motorcycles are gaining momentum. While the majority of electric two-wheelers in the market are utilitarian scooters, there are a few that offer sporty and dynamic styling. One such example is the Revolt RV400 electric motorcycle from Indian EV manufacturer Revolt. To celebrate the brand’s sixth anniversary, the RV400 has been launched in a special edition Stealth Black colorway.
The Stealth Black edition of the Revolt RV400 features blacked out bodywork, giving the bike a sleek and elegant look. It is equipped with gold inverted forks at the front, which provide a sharp contrast. The bike also features an aggressively styled LED headlight that adds to its modern aesthetic. The angular panels up front conceal the battery, giving the bike a sportbike-like stance.
The Revolt RV400 Stealth Black edition retains the same performance features as the standard model. It is powered by a mid-mounted electric motor with a continuous power output of around four horsepower. The bike’s battery is a 3.24 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion unit, providing a claimed range of 97.5 miles on a single charge.
In terms of technology, the Revolt RV400 comes equipped with inverted front forks, a preload-adjustable monoshock rear suspension, and front and rear disc brakes.
The RV400 Stealth Black edition is priced at Rs 117,000 (approximately $1,416 USD) and is now available for bookings online or at any Revolt Motors dealership.
The Vauxhall Crossland will undergo significant changes and be offered with an electric option in its second generation next year. Vauxhall announced earlier this year that all its models will have an EV option by 2024, with the Crossland and Grandland crossovers being the last to transition.
Vauxhall CEO James Taylor considers the electrification of these two popular model lines as a major milestone towards the brand’s ambition of becoming fully electric by 2028. Already, the Corsa, Astra, Mokka, Combo, and Vivaro are available with battery power. Additionally, Vauxhall plans to introduce two more electric-only models – the Manta crossover and a successor to the Insignia – in the next five years.
While Vauxhall has not revealed the design of its upcoming EVs, it has confirmed that an “Experimental” concept will be showcased at the Munich motor show in September. However, the electric version of the Crossland’s replacement has been spotted for the first time, showcasing a radically different appearance with chunkier edges and a stronger SUV styling.
The new Crossland features Vauxhall’s distinctive ‘Vizor’ front end, slimline LED headlights, and a contrasting wraparound ‘grille’ panel. The increase in size indicates a focus on enhanced practicality for family buyers. The current Crossland is comparable in size to models like the Ford Puma, Nissan Juke, and Seat Arona, but the larger dimensions of the new model could place it in competition with the Kia Niro, Skoda Karoq, and Dacia Duster.
Sub-Compact SUVs, like the Kia Sonet, could gain popularity in the U.S. due to its size, versatility, and practicality, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
The Kia Sonet offers diverse engine options, including a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, a 1.0-liter turbo gasoline engine, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine, providing power and torque options for different preferences.
The Kia Sonet showcases a premium exterior design with Kia’s signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, LED DRLs, and sleek alloy wheels, while the interior offers a comfortable and feature-packed cabin, including a 10.25-inch HD screen and advanced connectivity options.
Compact SUVs have gained immense popularity in the United States, becoming one of the most sought-after vehicle segments after pickup trucks. C-SUVs offer a winning combo of size, versatility, and practicality. They provide spacious and comfortable cabin space for passengers, ample cargo room, and a raised seating position with enhanced visibility, instilling a sense of confidence on the road. This versatility appeals to a wide range of buyers, including families, young professionals, and adventure enthusiasts.
Kia has introduced some excellent compact SUVs like the Seltos in the U.S. market, which have garnered a strong fan base of customers. Another small SUV that Kia has yet to release in the U.S. but has enjoyed success with in overseas markets like India, the Middle East, and Latin America is the Kia Sonet.
The Kia Sonet was developed mainly for the Indian market in the year 2020. Positioned below the Seltos in the line-up, it closely resembles the similarly-sized Hyundai Venue. The Sonet has a more aggressive appearance with Kia’s signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, LED DRLs housed in prominent headlamps, and a light bar connecting the rear LED tail lamps.
Why Should Kia Introduce The Sonet To The U.S. Market?
Kia
A front 3/4 action shot of a 2023 Kia Sonet X-Line
The Sonet is a subcompact crossover SUV built on the Hyundai-Kia K2 platform shared with the Hyundai Venue. The Kia Sonet offers a diverse range of engine options to cater to different preferences. The lineup includes a 1.2-Liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine generating 82 horsepower and 84 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, there’s a 1.0-liter turbo gasoline engine producing 118 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, a 1.5-liter diesel engine is available, delivering 99 horsepower and an impressive 184 pound-feet of torque.
Engine Specifications
Engine Type
Diesel
Gas
Gas
Engine Size
1.5 Liter`
1.0 Liter
1.2 liter
Cylinders
Four
Three
Four
Horsepower
113.43 hp
118 hp
81.86 hp
Torque
184 lb ft
126 lb ft
84.8 lb ft
Cam Type
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
In terms of transmission, Kia has provided a wide array of choices, which include a five-speed manual, a six-speed manual, a six-speed torque converter automatic, a seven-speed DCT (dual-clutch transmission), and a six-speed iMT (intelligent manual transmission), similar to what’s offered in the Venue. Notably, a six-speed automatic option is available for the diesel engine.
Exterior Styling
The exterior of the Kia Sonet exudes a premium feel with carefully crafted touches throughout. The top-of-the-line GT Line variant, which features striking red inserts, adding a dynamic flair to the car’s appearance. Emphasizing its rugged appeal, the grille boasts a sleek and chrome-free design. The headlamps, equipped with LEDs, emanate a modern and sharp aesthetic, while the fog lamps showcase elegant piano black housings.
The side profile of the Sonet continues the muscular theme, with attention-grabbing 16″ alloy wheels stealing the spotlight. Kia has truly mastered the art of designing alloy wheels, evident in their exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, which elevates the vehicle’s overall appeal. The Kia Sonet’s exterior design showcases a perfect balance of premium elements and rugged charm, particularly in the GT Line variant, making it a visually captivating and distinctive option in the compact SUV segment.
A shot of the dashboard in a 2023 Kia Sonet X-Line
The Kia Sonet boasts a premium interior, creating an overall pleasant ambiance in the cabin. Depending on the trim chosen, you can enjoy either dual-tone interior or a sleek full black theme with striking red stitching, particularly in the GT Line variant. The dashboard design is ergonomic and user-friendly, while the steering wheel design resembles that of the Seltos, exuding a sense of familiarity.
The front seats are a highlight, offering exceptional comfort and ample space. They feature well-designed bolsters and provide adequate support for long journeys. However, while the rear seats are nicely contoured, the Sonet falls slightly short in rear space. Legroom is comparable to that of the Venue, but taller passengers might experience some limitations as your knees could brush against the front seatbacks if occupied by a tall passenger.
The Kia Sonet boasts a large and impressive 10.25-inch HD screen adorning its dashboard, similar to its counterpart, the Seltos. This screen offers UVO connectivity options, enabling live traffic information and Over-The-Air (OTA) map updates, enhancing the vehicle’s navigation capabilities. Additionally, a wireless smartphone charger with cooling function has been seamlessly integrated, ensuring convenient charging on the go.
Kia
A shot of the front seats in a 2023 Kia Sonet X-Line
Notably, the Sonet comes equipped with an Air purifier featuring Virus protect technology, emphasizing Kia’s commitment to passenger well-being and comfort. The vehicle matches the Hyundai Venue in terms of equipment and then goes a step further, offering extra features such as a seven-speaker Bose sound system and ventilated front seats for both the driver and front passenger. Furthermore, the Sonet includes a Tire Pressure Monitoring System and cruise control to enhance the driving experience.
While the Sonet offers an array of advanced features, it does miss out on a 360-degree camera. Nevertheless, the package does include a one-touch sunroof, adding a touch of luxury to the overall driving experience. The Sonet impresses with its comprehensive and innovative features, making it an appealing choice in the competitive compact SUV market.
Despite the spatial constraints, Kia ensures the rear passengers’ comfort with thoughtful amenities, such as dedicated AC vents and a USB charging socket. While the Sonet may not be the most spacious in its class, its premium interior and attention to passenger comfort make it an appealing choice in the compact SUV segment.
Kia
A shot of the Kia Seltos in the City
The Kia Sonet’s success lies in its ability to replicate the winning formula of its larger sibling, the Seltos, in a more compact form. It impressively shares almost all the Seltos’ features, many of which are rare to find at this price point. Additionally, although it may not really find many takers in the United States, the Seltos offers an excellent 1.5 diesel engine with a choice of a manual or torque-converter automatic gearbox. The diesel automatic variant, in particular, stands out as the best powertrain, delivering a smooth and efficient performance, making the Sonet feel like a more premium and larger vehicle.
Despite its successes, the Sonet does have some limitations. Similar to the Hyundai Venue, its back seat lacks the spaciousness offered by some rivals, and the ride can feel slightly choppy. Additionally, the handling dynamics may not be as engaging as some would hope. Nevertheless, the Kia Sonet strikes an impressive balance among compact SUVs, offering a loaded feature set and outstanding versatility. If you seek a compact vehicle that can handle various tasks with ease and comes packed with features, the Sonet remains a top choice.
The Sonet X-Line Special Edition is the latest and best version of the model so far. This version comes with the following upgrades over the standard
Exterior Updates:
Matte graphite (grey) exterior paint shade
Gloss black knurled pattern grille
Piano black finish with dark metal accents on front and rear skid plates
Gloss black fog lamp garnishes and outside wing mirrors
Dark metal accents on doors
16-inch alloy wheels with gloss black finish
Silver brake calipers (instead of red on standard GT models)
Interior Updates:
New dual-tone color scheme
Black headliner
Leatherette upholstery with orange contrast stitching and X Line logos
Based on the top-spec GTX+ trim with existing features and equipment
Engine Options:
Expected to offer the 120hp, 1.0-liter turbo-gasoline engine
Expected to offer the 100hp, 1.5-liter diesel engine (115hp in automatic variant)
Transmission options: iMT and DCT for the gas model, and manual and torque converter automatic for the diesel
The Kia Sonet has undoubtedly made a strong impact in the compact SUV market with its winning combination of style, features, and performance. With a diverse range of engine options and transmission choices, it caters to various driving preferences and needs. Its premium interiors, loaded with advanced technology and comfort features, provide a delightful driving experience.
While some limitations exist in terms of rear space and handling dynamics, the Sonet X-Line Special Edition showcases the best version yet, with distinctive exterior styling touches and a refined interior. If Kia were to introduce the Sonet to the U.S. market, it would seamlessly fill the gap between the Kia Soul and the Seltos, offering American consumers another compelling choice in the highly sought-after compact SUV segment.
The new lower-spec variants of Tata Altroz gain features from the XM+ trim
Tata Altroz introduces two new variants, XM and XM(S), priced at Rs 6.9 lakh and Rs 7.35 lakh (ex-showroom) respectively.
These new variants add wheel covers, height-adjustable driver’s seat, auto-fold ORVMS, and steering-mounted controls over the XE+ variant.
The XM(S) variant is now the entry-level variant with a sunroof, priced Rs 55,000 less than the XM+ (S) variant.
Additional features are added to the XE, XM+, and XT variants.
The XM trim is equipped with an 88PS 1.2-litre petrol engine and a manual transmission.
The price range for Tata Altroz is from Rs 6.60 lakh to Rs 10.74 lakh (ex-showroom).
The Tata Altroz now offers two new affordable variants, XM and XM(S), expanding its accessibility and appeal. These variants fill the gap between the XE+ and XM+ trims.
Prices by Variant
Variant
Price
XM
Rs 6.9 lakh
XM (S)
Rs 7.35 lakh
The XM variant is priced Rs 10,000 higher than the XE+ variant and Rs 55,000 lower than the XM+ variant. Similarly, the XM(S) variant is priced Rs 55,000 less than the XM+ (S) variant.
The XM variant adds 16-inch wheels with full cover, height-adjustable driver’s seat, electrically adjustable and auto-fold ORVMs, and steering-mounted audio controls. Both variants offer an optional 9-inch touchscreen system that supports Bluetooth connectivity. The XM(S) variant comes with a sunroof, priced Rs 45,000 higher than the XM variant.
The XM trims also include dual front airbags, rear parking sensors, multi-drive modes, remote keyless entry, rear power windows, and front USB charging.
In addition to the new variants, Tata has revised the feature list of some other lower variants of the Altroz hatchback. The base-spec XE variant now includes rear power windows and remote keyless entry with follow-me-home lamps.
The XM+ variant features the same black and grey interior as the top-end variant. It now offers a rear parking camera, driver seat height adjustment (offered from the new XM variant onwards), and cruise control. The XT variant is now equipped with 16-inch hyperstyle wheels and a rear defogger.
The new XM and XM(S) variants are only available with the Altroz’s 1.2-litre petrol engine, which delivers 88PS and 115Nm of power. They come with a manual transmission, while the dual clutch automatic option can be chosen from the next-in-line XM+ variant.
The upcoming 2024 Tata Nexon will receive several premium additions compared to the current model
The facelifted Nexon will feature dynamic or sequential turn indicators, possibly available in the higher-end variants.
Previously spotted visual elements include an LED light bar on the bonnet.
The cabin will also undergo changes, with a new steering wheel and larger displays.
Expected to have Tata’s new 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine, while retaining the 1.5-liter diesel unit.
We have exclusive spy shots of the facelifted Tata Nexon, which reveal an exciting new feature. The updated SUV will be equipped with dynamic turn indicators, a feature commonly seen in premium cars, particularly from luxury brands. Tata might be the first to offer this upscale feature in the subcompact SUV segment.
Other notable design upgrades include redesigned rear bumpers, a more prominent boot shape, a new tail light design, and fresh alloy wheels. The Nexon will receive a major design overhaul, giving it a refreshed look.
The interior of the Nexon will also be revamped with premium elements. It will feature a new flat-bottom steering wheel with a backlit section displaying the Tata logo. Additionally, the regular variants of the SUV are expected to come with the larger 10.25-inch touchscreen system and a new 7-inch digital driver’s display, similar to the Nexon EV Max Dark.
While the 2024 Nexon will retain the same 115PS 1.5-liter diesel engine, it may also come with the new 1.2-liter TGDI turbo-petrol unit. This engine, unveiled at the Auto Expo 2023, is rated at 125PS and 225Nm. The current turbo-petrol engine’s AMT option could be replaced by a DCT (dual clutch automatic) mated to Tata’s new engine.
Chevrolet Camaros from the third generation are gaining recognition in the collector world. The IROC-Z and Z/28 models are selling for over $20,000 in good to excellent condition. In some cases, these cars can even fetch up to $50,000 when they are in pristine condition with very low mileage. Even the base model Camaros can have a significant value, reaching into the low five-figure range with the right options.
However, this particular Chevrolet Camaro won’t be joining the ranks of those highly-prized cars anytime soon. After sitting outside for twelve years, the car’s surface is covered in what appears to be fungus or mold spores, giving it the appearance of being covered in barnacles. The WD Detailing crew has the challenge of bringing this car back to life, both in terms of getting it cleaned up and getting it running. While the Camaro is not in as bad shape as the Austin Healey they previously restored earlier this year, it is clear that they have their work cut out for them.
Fortunately, the spores can be removed with a thorough pressure wash. Despite the fact that General Motors had issues with paint peeling in the 1980s and early 1990s, the red paint on the Camaro remains mostly intact, except for the rear deck, which still looks weathered and faded. However, after some sanding and polishing, the paint begins to shine once again.
Under the hood, this Camaro is equipped with a fuel-injected 2.8-liter V6 engine. With a multi-port electronic setup, the fuel injection system boosted the engine’s output to 135 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque. Although the performance of this engine was not particularly impressive in the 3,300-pound Camaro, it was typical for the era when even the “hot” engines produced only 225 horsepower.
After sitting for twelve years, the V6 engine is currently not producing any horsepower. However, with the help of Robby Layton, who stopped by the WD Detailing shop, they were able to get it started, despite dealing with corroded fuel lines and gas tank.
Moving inside the car, it is in rough condition with lots of debris and at least one dead mouse. However, with some cleaning, the Camaro begins to look presentable. Although the V6 may not have the same appeal as the 1983 Camaro Z/28 featured previously, it still has the potential to be a nice car for cruising around.
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