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First Drive

Peugeot e-2008 GT 2023 first drive

The Peugeot e-2008 has received an updated version of the e-CMP platform with a bigger 54kWh lithium-ion battery. This increase in battery capacity has boosted the car’s WLTP range from 214 to 251 miles. The new battery system also brings improved efficiency, with official figures showing an efficiency of 5.0mpkWh, which is better than its rivals such as the MG ZS EV Long Range.

In terms of styling, the e-2008 now features a more aggressive and wider-looking front end with headlights and tail lights similar to those found on the Peugeot 508. Inside the car, higher-spec models offer new materials and a 10.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.

It’s important to note that the 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine will still be available as an option in the Peugeot 2008 range, with the same style and interface updates.

While there haven’t been any changes to the suspension or steering, the e-2008 now comes with a more powerful 154bhp motor. Despite not being a performance-oriented vehicle, the e-2008 offers a pleasant mid-speed urgency and feels pokey enough for fast motorway merges. It also provides a comfortable and composed ride, even on 18-inch alloy wheels.

During acceleration from a standstill with a significant amount of lock applied, the front tyres may scrabble and squirm, causing the e-2008 to understeer when attempting sharp corners. However, overall, it performs well and offers a quiet and intuitive driving experience whether in urban environments or on scenic roads.

Featured

Facelifted Kia Seltos’s Interior: A Sneak Peek


The compact SUV is set to receive its first major update in four years

Facelifted Kia Seltos Front

  • The new Seltos will feature a redesigned interior with a new climate control panel and dual-zone AC.

  • It is expected to come with dual-integrated 10.25-inch displays for the touchscreen system and instrument cluster.

  • The Seltos will be the second compact SUV to have radar-based ADAS technology.

  • It will be equipped with a new and more powerful 160PS 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, available with manual and automatic transmissions.

  • Prices are expected to start from around Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom).

The facelifted Kia Seltos has been spotted once again, giving us a glimpse of its interior. While we can’t see the entire dashboard, the climate control panel is clearly visible, showcasing an important new feature.

The spy shot reveals a new climate control panel with new switches. The presence of the SYNC button and temperature control buttons on either side of the panel suggests that the Seltos facelift will offer dual-zone climate control. Additionally, you can also spot the audio controls, wireless charging, and a 360-degree camera switch on the buttons surrounding the drive selector of the automatic variant seen in the spy images.

This new climate control panel looks premium compared to that of the current Seltos. However, it is not the same as the one seen in the global facelift. The central AC vents have also been redesigned, resembling the globally available Seltos, indicating a possible update to the dashboard that includes an integrated dual-screen setup with 10.25-inch displays for the infotainment system and instrument cluster.

Facelifted Kia Seltos Cabin

Similar to the current version, the facelifted Kia Seltos appears to have a dual-tone black and beige interior. This might be one of the regular variants, while the top-spec GT line trim could retain its all-black theme. In terms of safety, the presence of radar-based ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) technology will enhance the overall safety features of the car.

Aside from the interior, the exterior design of the Seltos will also receive updates. Recent leaked spy shots suggest that the front and rear profiles of the SUV will be more stylish. The overall silhouette remains the same, but new single-tone alloy wheels can be seen.

Also Read: Kia Carnival No Longer On Sale In India

Facelifted Kia Seltos Front

The powertrain options for the facelifted Kia Seltos will remain unchanged, with the 1.5-litre petrol and diesel engines being retained. The 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine has been discontinued and will be replaced by a more powerful 160PS 1.5-litre unit, similar to the one offered with the Carens. All three engines will be available with automatic transmission options.

The Kia Seltos facelift is expected to be priced from around Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom) and will continue to compete with popular rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Skoda Kushaq, MG Astor, Toyota Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, and upcoming contenders like the Honda Elevate and Citroen C3 Aircross.

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Mazda

2024 Mazda3: Pricing and Packaging

Mazda3 to receive new packages including Carbon Turbo edition, greater connected technology and enhanced suite of standard safety features.

  • New Carbon Turbo combines bespoke exterior styling with refined turbocharged performance
  • Newly available 10.25″ infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
  • 2024 Mazda3 has a starting MSRP1 of $24,170

IRVINE, Calif., June 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Mazda North American Operations is kicking off its 2024 model year line-up announcements with updates to the Mazda3. Available as a sedan or hatchback, the Mazda3 offers customers a compact car with engaging driving dynamics and a sophisticated design. Hatchback models will arrive at dealerships this summer, followed by sedan models in the fall.

2024 Mazda3

For 2024, the standard Mazda3 2.5 S models utilize the naturally-aspirated Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine that produces 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque on regular or premium fuel and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. Other standard features include front-wheel drive (FWD), cylinder-deactivation technology, and G-Vectoring Control Plus. The 2024 Mazda3 is available in multiple packaging options allowing owners to choose the vehicle that best fits their day-to-day lives and driving preferences.

MAZDA3 2.5 S
Mazda3 2.5 S, available on sedan models, comes standard with many i-Activsense safety features that include Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop and go function, Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning, Lane-Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert, High Beam Control, and, for 2024, now features Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Rear Door Alert as standard. Mazda Connected Services iscomplemen for three years, which provides the ability to monitor the vehicle remotely through the MyMazda app and includes in-car Wi-Fi hotspot for three months or up to 2GB on trial, whichever comes first2.

The stylish interior features an 8.8-inch center display with the latest Mazda Connect infotainment system that can be controlled with the multi-function Commander knob. Other standard features include push button start, remote keyless illuminated entry, a rearview camera, two front USB-C inputs, Bluetooth, a six-speaker sound system, electronic parking brake, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and black cloth seats. The exterior provides LED lighting for the automatic headlights, combination taillights, and daytime running lights, to go along with a matte finish front grille and silver finish 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

MAZDA3 2.5 S SELECT SPORT
New for 2024, the Mazda3 2.5 S Select Sport, available as either a hatchback or sedan, builds upon the standard model and adds convenience features such as Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear armrest with cup holders, and door mirror turn signals. Design upgrades include black leatherette seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels in a black finish with matching black heated mirrors.

MAZDA3 2.5 S PREFERRED
Building off the Select Sport package, the Mazda3 2.5 S Preferred includes a power moonroof, available black or greige leatherette seats, heated front seats, eight-way power driver seats with power lumbar support and seat memory. The Preferred features some unique visual cues, as well, with body-colored side mirrors that feature LED turn signal indicators, and sedan models sporting 18-inch wheels in a silver finish while hatchback models have a gray metallic finish.

MAZDA3 2.5 S CARBON EDITION
Updated for 2024, Mazda3 Carbon Edition models now feature wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as Qi wireless phone charging. Available as a hatchback or sedan, the Carbon Edition features standard i-Activ all-wheel drive (AWD), helping to enhance the vehicle’s performance. This unique model is only offered in Polymetal Gray exterior paint and red leather, and shares features found in the Preferred package along with black finish 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, and gloss black-heated door mirrors.

MAZDA3 2.5 S PREMIUM
Exclusive to 2024 Mazda3 hatchback models, the 2.5 S Premium package is unique amongst the Mazda3 line-up featuring standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and an available Skyactiv-MT six-speed manual transmission. This package is generously equipped with Bose 12-speaker premium audio with aluminum speaker grilles, SiriusXM satellite radio with a complementary three-month trial, full-color windshield-projected Active Driving Display, Mazda Navigation System, paddle shifters (AT-only), Adaptive Front-lighting System, and a shark fin antenna. Leather seats are available in black or red. This model is equipped with 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels in a black finish, and LED signature illumination headlights and taillights.

MAZDA3 2.5 CARBON TURBO
The all-new Mazda3 2.5 Carbon Turbo builds upon the success of the Carbon Edition line-up, now blending turbocharged performance and bespoke styling. These engaging vehicles will continue to be a favorite among driving enthusiasts looking for a modern hatchback or sedan with refined performance. All Mazda3 Turbo models are powered by the Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine delivering 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium 93 octane fuel paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ AWD. With regular 87 octane fuel, the turbo engine is capable of 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

This special package is finished in Zircon Sand Metallic with 18-inch black metallic finish wheels and gloss black door mirrors.  Unique exterior styling elements are matched to a black interior that utilizes exclusive terracotta leatherette along with bold red contrast stitching. All Mazda3 Turbo models now feature a larger 10.25-inch infotainment display that adds touchscreen functionality when paired to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which both now have wireless connectivity, as well as Qi wireless phone charging.

MAZDA3 2.5 TURBO PREMIUM PLUS
The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus elevates the refined styling with gloss black aerodynamics accents for both the sedan and the hatchback. The sedan includes a rear lip spoiler, while hatchback models are equipped with a rear roof spoiler and front air dam. Rear Direction Base Safety, which includes Smart Brake Support-Reverse and Smart Brake Support-Rear Crossing, is added to complete the full i-Activsense suite of safety features. Leather seats are available in black or red for the hatchback and black or white for the sedan, along with a Bose 12-speaker premium audio system. Upgrades include Traffic Jam Assist, 360° View Monitor with front and rear parking sensors, Homelink added to the frameless auto-dim rearview mirror, and Mazda Navigation System, along with an Active Driving Display and Traffic Sign Recognition.

MSRP3 FOR THE 2024 MAZDA3 IS AS FOLLOWS:

Model

Drivetrain

Sedan

Hatchback

Mazda3 2.5 S

FWD

$24,170

–

Mazda3 2.5 S Select Sport

FWD

$24,690

$25,690

Mazda3 2.5 S Preferred

FWD

$26,190

$27,390

Mazda3 2.5 S Carbon Edition

AWD

$29,060

$30,260

Mazda3 2.5 S Premium (6MT)

FWD

–

$30,350

Mazda3 2.5 Carbon Turbo

AWD

$31,750

$32,950

Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus

AWD

$35,450

$36,650

PREMIUM PAINT COLORS:

Soul Red Crystal Metallic

$595

Machine Gray Metallic

$595

Polymetal Gray Metallic

$450

Snowflake White Pearl Mica

$450

Ceramic Metallic

$450

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Columbia through approximately 795 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario; operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and operations in Colombia are managed by Mazda de Colombia in Bogota, Colombia. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at News.MazdaUSA.com.

Follow MNAO’s social media channels through Twitter and Instagram at @MazdaUSA and Facebook at Facebook.com/MazdaUSA.

1 MSRP does not include $1,165 for destination and handling ($1,210 in Alaska), taxes, title or additional fees. Dealers set actual sale prices.
2 Connected services are subject to change at any time without notice. Mazda Connected Services is provided during a 3-year trial period; annual subscription fees apply thereafter. Use of MyMazda App and compatible phone are required. Connected services require cellular or Wi-Fi service. Data fees may apply. Never drive while distracted or while using a hand-held device. Please see Owner’s Manual for important feature details and related privacy information.
3 MSRP does not include $1,165 for destination and handling ($1,210 in Alaska), taxes, title or additional fees. Dealers set actual sale prices.
Mazda

Introducing Carbon Turbo for Select Mazda Vehicles

Mazda3, CX-30 and CX-5 to receive unique package

IRVINE, Calif. (June 6, 2023) – Mazda continues to enhance its lineup with powerful engines, agile handling, and customized designs that cater to the preferences of its drivers, offering them memorable experiences. The upcoming 2024 Mazda3, CX-30, and CX-5 models will feature the new Carbon Turbo package, which combines Mazda’s engaging performance with a distinctive aesthetic. Mazda North American Operations today reveals the introduction of Carbon Turbo for these select Mazda vehicles.

2023 Mazda3, CX-30 and CX-5

The Carbon Turbo package is a complement to the existing Carbon Edition lineup, both of which offer a blend of sportiness and sophisticated design. Both editions feature gloss black exterior elements, such as black metallic aluminum alloy wheels, side mirrors, and front grille. However, Carbon Turbo sets itself apart with its unique color scheme. These special edition models exclusively feature Zircon Sand Metallic exterior paint and an interior that combines materials like terracotta, black suede, and gunmetal accents, giving them a timeless appeal that resonates with the modern world.

The design and performance of Carbon Turbo models go hand in hand. They are equipped with Mazda’s Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive. This powerful engine delivers 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium 93 octane fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque with regular 87 octane fuel.

Pricing and detailed features for the new Carbon Turbo models will be announced along with the official unveiling of the 2024 Mazda vehicles.

Mazda North American Operations, headquartered in Irvine, California, oversees the sales, marketing, parts, and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Colombia through approximately 795 dealerships. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario; operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and operations in Colombia are managed by Mazda de Colombia in Bogota, Colombia. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at News.MazdaUSA.com.

Follow MNAO’s social media channels on Twitter, Instagram (@MazdaUSA), and Facebook (Facebook.com/MazdaUSA).

Motorsport

Mercedes First To Receive Level 3 ADAS Approval For Use In California

Mercedes-Benz becomes the first automotive company to receive certification from California state to sell standard-production vehicles equipped with Level 3 conditionally automated driving. Basically, this means that certain Mercedes models can be driven in the largest US automotive market without interaction between the driver and the machine under certain conditions. The driver must still be ready to take over if the system disengages, though.

The automaker’s Drive Pilot system will be available as an option on the 2024 S-Class and 2024 EQS models and the first cars equipped with the tech are expected to be delivered to customers in late 2023. The same system made the German brand the first automaker in the United States to offer Level 3 automated driving back in January this year when Drive Pilot was certified for use in Nevada.