New Subaru Impreza 2016 - Tokyo Motor Show

 New Subaru Impreza 2016 with 1.6-liter engine with 114 hp

The new Subaru Impreza is described as the first model of a new generation of Subaru autos, which will also be the main asset of the company's plan whose main objective is to improve the supply and growth of the brand.

One of the essential components of the plan is the new standardized platform on which is base all new Subaru Impreza models and even the Outback. On the new platform is expected  significantly reduced weight of the Impreza, and also firmer structure of the car. 

If the model from the Tokyo Motor show follows the concept design, then we can expect that the new Impreza will have a conventional hatchback shape compared to the current generation. Especially emphasized is the new grille and large air intakes at the front of the vehicle, and a prominent rear spoiler. From Subaru inform the design of the five-door concept is also the prelude to the appearance of the future offer.

Otherwise, this model is 4.400 mm long, 1.880 wide and 1.440 mm high, and its wheelbase is 2.670 mm.

In terms of motorization, the car will be powered by a new generation of engines with innovative technology. The current model is powered by a 1.6-liter engine with 114 hp, coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT.

According to current announcements, the sales for the Subaru Impreza will start late next year. The  price should be around 25,000 euros.

 

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TEST: 2015 Peugeot 208 1.2 Pure Tech/110 Feline

New 2015 Peugeot 208: Everything is in shades

 The best-selling model of Peugeot, the charming 208, from recently is a little changed. Very little on the aesthetic level, but more on supplying the new equipment and aggregates, counting and Peugeot 208 1.2 PureTech / 110, just like the one what we have on this test. 

Aesthetically, the changes are minimal, and can be notice only  by the current owners or well-versed in the brand. Extended front apron, with different plastic grille, modified bumper and chrome strips few more, especially around the fog lights. In the back, the changes are visible on lights, the parking lights are now modeled from the larger Peugeot 308, made up from three vertical diodes. With attractive alloy wheels, introduced new body colors, with the application of previously unknown technology.

 For the model on the test we can say it was grainy matte combination, which can be feel by the touch of hand. The advantage of this paint is in its resistance to micro scratches, and unlike pure matte, it is allowed automatic washing with brushes or high pressure. At the same time, better than the old, less dirty, and with price little higher than the acceptable classical metallic (150-200 euros). All in all attracted a lot of questionable views and positive comments. If we add to all the attractive LED and Xenon lights, tires size 205/45 R17, chrome window frames and mirrors, plus a large panoramic roof, it is clear that it does not lack attractiveness. 

In short, it is a good taste in all fields, as in the case of our 208: sports seats in leather / fabric, arm slings with mini boxing, pedals and numerous details of aluminum, color screen of 7 inches with integrated GPS and Mirror Screen application (allows the transfer of all of data from a smartphone on the screen), a tiny leather steering wheel, blue ambient light around the perimeter panoramic roof and instrument panel .., nothing, Peugeot is nicely made up this model.

In addition, enriched with sophisticated equipment, such as rear-view camera and a system for self-parking and braking.

What remains the same is the architecture of the dashboard, the instrument are "hooked" on the upper part. Position of the steering wheel is unusual, and as we have repeatedly stated, opinions are very divided. Personally, after having to adjust the seat (raised slightly more) and steering wheel (lowered slightly lower), manipulate an  208 is  easy like  a toy, and for that  also contribute the modest dimensions and excellent driving dynamics.

While in this segment has a significantly more spacious cars (Hyundai i20 and Skoda Fabia), with less than 4 meters in length, Peugeot 208 is hospitable enough for four adults and their luggage. From 285 liters, with a spare wheel of the same size and aluminum wheel, up to 311 liters without it. In any case, the practical aspect is commendable, all necessary little things, from cans and mobile phones, to "test" bottles of 1.5 liters, easily can find their place.

Like it or not, in this segment, as well in the higher segments, a small three-cylinder engines are suppressing four-cylinder, in significantly higher volumes. An important thing is of course turbocharger, thanks to which the power and torque are going on incredible level. For some time in use, 1.2 Pure Tech / 110 appeared and in 208, year 2015, but only in a weaker version (there is also a 130 hp). 

And it feels how fast run Peugeot 208 1.2 Pure Tech, is going "like a bullet!" Turbo blows early and strongly. Although there is no greater need to push it in the revs, the pleasure is felt when good pulls, at the cost of increased spending and not very pleasant sound.

For the driving dynamics will not waste words, Peugeot had no need to work on the chassis and suspension system. No changes to the team that wins.Peugeot 208, in addition to being one of the most dynamic little cars, it is also comfortable. Even with 17-inch wheels, it is impressive how  "nice" absorbs irregularities. For customers with shallower pockets only information that are retained weaker aggregates, in addition to the aforementioned diesel version, there is the 1.2 VTi / 82 (without turbocharger) and also three-cylinder 1.0 68 hp.

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TEST: Citroen C4 Cactus

Citroen C4 Cactus: Trendy car with a ton of innovation

New Citroen C4 Cactus is probably the most advanced car that Citroen produced after a while. Here we are not talking only to a special futuristic design that turns so many heads through the streets. Here we talk about ultra-low mass, which is in the level of the lower class cars, and which provides dramatically lower fuel consumption compare to other SUV competitors. In fact, C4 Cactus is a fantastic 200 kg lighter than the C4, the car on which it is based, but with a newer, lighter platform. Fantastic achievement.

Ultra low weight does not mean a small car. On the contrary, the C4 Cactus is very spacious on the front and rear seats. The boot is also with great size, but the functionality is reduced as the rear seat can not be split down as in the competitors, just down completely, in one part. Therefore, through the cabin there are many, many places to delay for trifles, which are well-sized. And all this thanks to the innovation that can only be made by Citroen: the front passenger airbag is integrated into the roof, rather than in the center console! But not everything is good - rear windows are opening like butterfly, incomplete, although this was made to reduce the weight, bad thing is the comfort of the rear passengers.

While driving, C4 Cactus behave like nearly every other Citroen. The comfort is very high on the open road and in the cabin are transmitted only major holes. Also solid refinement - engine well muted, and there is no sound neither of wind neither of tires. Stability is solid, but the dynamic in handling is not on the level of the competition. Weak is and the manual transmission, which is insufficiently precise and direct. Ergonomics is otherwise solid and all commands are at hand. However visibility is excellent, and at the narrow parking helps AirBump plastic doors, which easily absorb smaller bumps. Peace of mind.

Citroen C4 Cactus is brilliant in low consumption and low travel expenses. All engines are recorders in class when it comes to consumption - basic petrol goes with about 7 liters in a city or a little over 5 liters outdoors, while the new 100 hp diesel with ultra low consumption, consumes 4 liters outdoors or 5 liters in town , figures on which can envy and some city models! And thanks to the low weight, C4 Cactus boasts with solid performance from all engines, particularly from turbo petrol.

Lastly, all the innovation that Citroen has, are made to reduce consumption and  the emissions of CO2, and with that to come with extremely favorable price. Citroen with the full functionality offered by C4 Cactus, and the style that brings with it, is currently one of the best cars in the class and freely we can say that is highly recommended choice.

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TEST: Fiat 500X - Irresistibly charming SUV

TEST and REVIEW: Fiat 500X - Irresistibly charming SUV 

The latest model in the offer from Fiat, again follow retro language that began with Fiat 500, but in higher and higher packaging as required by the trend in Europe. Unlike many competitors, Fiat 500 X has to offer all-wheel drive, as the model we had in the test, which is great news for adventurers, and for a real increase in safety.

Design

Fiat 500 X is based on the design of the ultra successful Fiat 500 and rightly so. Retro lines never become outdated and the charm that carry circular shapes and soft external body does not leave anyone indifferent. In fact, calm front is refreshing, because almost every new similar models now are with very aggressive front look even for the youngest buyers. But no, Fiat 500 X is not a builder of the gym that pulls all his muscles to light, but this charming seducer is wearing a suit, with carefully selected perfume and flowers in his hand. 

But what about inner beauty? Probably like no other model in the SUV segment, Fiat 500 X has transformed exterior lines inside. And here, as well as outside, you come across a lot of circular forms that only increase the retro charm start from the outside, with attention paid to the smallest details, which are distinguished from generic interiors that accustomed so far ...

Performance

The little Fiat 500 X who we had on the test comes with a fairly powerful diesel engine with 140 hp and 350 Nm, derived from a displacement of 2.0 liters. The result? Excellent performance in all modes and particularly high elasticity. The numbers say that from 0 to 100km the acceleration is for 9.5 seconds, while top speed is 190 km / h, which is quite respectable for a small SUV and enough to satisfy aggressive drivers.

Manageability / Comfort

On the first few kilometers with 500 X, we noticed that the suspension is a little harder,and transmits larger holes on the inside, but the ride is not uncomfortable and quiet at high speeds on the open road. Confirmation tuned suspension still has its positive sides, and it is smaller reduction in curves. 

On the other hand, this means that the car has excellent handling. Fiat 500 X drive as a compact car. Even in faster cornering entries, great drive distributes power and the nose of the car can be very easy bring under control, and can target where you want. By pressing harder on the accelerator, the car turns even on very low rpm, making driving extremely fun! A fun is increases thanks to the direct management and excellent, precise transmission.

Area / Practicality

Although the external dimensions, particularly the length of just 4273 millimeters not promise particularly spacious interior, the cabin has enough space for four adults on the front and rear seats. Indeed Fiat 500 X is even more comfortable than some models from the compact class, the high comfort and excellent joining seats, well covering the body and comfortable enough for long trips.

Throughout the cabin there are enough places to delay trinkets and larger items and bottles, and in front the passenger has two large drawers. Trunk counts 350 liters, which is less than other models in the segment, but it has the right shape, and placing the rear seats are getting completely flat floor, which is very useful for loading of larger and longer items.

Ergonomics

Behind the wheel, sitting is a bit lower compared to the competitors in the class, making it feel more sporty, but the driver still has an excellent view of the road ahead. Controls are well placed and finding the ideal position is very easy, while the center console is always at hand. Multimedia system with touch screen is easy and intuitive to use and the only drawback is that the display has a slightly lower resolution. 

Quality, reliability and return value

The cabin in Fiat 500 X has an extremely precise workmanship and even driving on the ground, there is no cracking or knocking, which is a positive surprise for Fiat. It is excellent and the choice of materials - plastic is luxury, and looks firmly and solidly. Great attention is paid to the details, which are also made of high quality and carefully selected materials.

In terms of confidentiality, Fiat has seen improvement in recent years, particularly in engines, which do not appear bigger problems. Also undercarriage is firmly - is based on the Jeep Renegade, which means you can expect a full longevity of the vehicle.

Safety

Fiat 500 X earned four stars on the new, stringent tests of Euro NCAP, but on all tested categories  is very close to the maximum five stars. It is positive that even the base model is equipped with full safety equipment that includes 6 airbags, designed a set of controls for stability (ESP + ASR + MSR + HBA + Hill Holder + ERM), and available drive to all four wheels which helps in slippery road conditions.

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New Hyundai i20 2015 - Review and Specs

New Hyundai i20 - Another serious player from South Korea

Hyundai in the B segment came for the first time in 2002 with the model Getz, without having left a greater mark in the memory of European drivers. When Hyundai i20 arrive on european market the situation has changed somewhat, but with 400,000 units sold in six years of existence, the greater commercial success was absent.

The fact that Hyundai wants to correct with the second generation, is the simple reason that the 22% of total sales, this segment has on the "old continent" (2.86 million vehicles). In addition, in the coming years will receive a substantial progress of 14%, thus whole sales reached 3.25 million units. Well, where is the whole story for i20? Far, very far behind the leading "youngsters", close to the twentieth position.

For example in France,  in 2014, are sold: 
105,182 Renault Clio,
83,965 Peugeot 208 ,
59,627 Citroen C3,
40,407 VW Polo,
24,916 Ford Fiesta  , and
4,001   Hyundai i20

(CCFA source - Comite des Constructeurs français d'automobiles). In other European countries the situation is somewhat better, with position near the tenth position.

Now the light of day saw a whole new generation of Hyundai i20. Conceived and developed by the European center of Hyundai in Germany, with comprehensive help from young French designer Olivieja Denamur, instead of in India, Hyundai i20 this time is produced in Turkey (Izmir).

Everything indicates that Hyundai aims to increase sales to the European clientele, which is why the style for the new Hyundai i20 is quite improved. We will say serious competitor on the VW Polo.

The C-pillar is covered with black plastic, which, combined with strongly tinted rear windows creates the impression that the C-pillar isn't there. The rear part from the car is the most aggressive, with a massive and highly elevated lights in LED technology, gives it a striking appearance. Actually i20 looks much larger than it actually is, even with the 4.04 m (+ 4 cm compared to the former), belongs to the class  "little ones".

Inside, the driver has the feeling that the steering wheel of a vehicle is in the superior segment. Good molded seats, with a large sitting body surface can be adjusted for height and control in both directions.

Despite the massive center console, for the seats do not lack place for knees, neither place for head. The driver and passenger are not in close contact, their shoulders never touch. The credit for this belongs to the entirely new platform, with a wheelbase of 2.57 m (+ 4 cm compared to the previous).
From the new platform benefits also have and the rear passengers, and although it can not compete with i30, two adults fits effortlessly. The same applies to the trunk, which is with 326 liters (+31 liters), more spacious than most competitors. Hyundai has predicted and a shelf with two levels, when folding rear backrest for even surface. Aren't forgotten neither the places for practical aspect, nothing easier to empty the pockets and place the little things, even for bottles of 1.5 l ...

Analog instruments and center console are angled slightly towards the driver (at an angle of 5 °). Even the quality services, a portion of the valve is covered with a soft two-tone plastic (with any final level). At night, as usual for Hyundai, "ice" blue light illuminates the interior. For more comfort there is holder for smartphone. 

Korean manufacturers produces real good and safe cars, however, still lack a certain "charm". But not on the highway, where the i20 behaves like a large. Hard trim does not allow the chassis to "wiggle", after all, this is according to engineers lighter and stiffer than the previous one. With quite acceptable noise of the wind and discreet 1.4 CRDI diesel (at least while in constant mode), it is quite feasible "cruise" speed of 150-160 km / h and reach a maximum of 180 km / h (kilometers per hour). 

We can say it is kind of slow, partly due to the weight of the diesel engine. It is a four-cylinder 1.4  with 90 hp, which provides the necessary power  for 1165 kg heavy vehicle. It is primarily for drivers who exceed tens of thousands of kilometers a year, partly because of low consumption, and because of significantly higher prices of gasoline.

As for gasoline engines, for now, all known from former versions. So one petrol unit 1.2, 75 and 84 hp and 1.4 of 100 hp. Now is announced a small three-cylinder 1.0 GDI 100 and 120 hp. 

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Toyota Avensis 2015 - Review

Toyota Avensis 2015 - is it better business car from Audi A4, BMW Series 3 and Mercedes C class?

This time Toyota goes on safe on big discrete changes! The new Toyota Avensis is 40 mm longer than its predecessor, body lines offer a softer edges and transitions, while the lights are modernized and with attractive design. 

In the field of interior design, we detect new solution for the dashboard. The idea was that it be divided into two zones, upper and lower. In the upper zone is speed meter and rpm meter and between them is  the 4.2 inch TFT multi-information display. The lower part defines the center console separated from the transmission tunnel and the touch screen of 8 inches.

With a mission to position their cars on top with corresponding segments, engineers from Toyota have worked to achieve NVH (in translation - noise, vibration and harshness).

For example, the new Avensis diesel editions, the entire surface of the lower part of the body spreads a kind of soundproof (dumping sheet) for noise reduction. Even for the air conditioning there is special soundproof new solution heater.

In the field of diesel engines we encounter two new features: a 1.6-liter D4-D, originally observed in the model Verso, Auris and then, won the right to find into the  Avensis. This Euro 6 engine, developed by BMW develops 112 hp and 270 Nm. 20 kg lighter and therefore more fuel efficient, has the task to replace outgoing two-liter D4D engine.

The new two-liter D4D is something really special. If on the economy and CO2 emissions on a par with the 1.6 liter engine, it is simply there for the drivers in the center of its interests, putting performance. 143 hp and 320 Nm of torque will be enough for   Avensis to go 100 km / h for 9.5 seconds.

Driving in the new Toyota Avensis is very relaxed and comfortable.  You only need to follow the navigation, and  adequately adjust the cruise control and you arrive at your destination without stress on time, accurate as a Swiss watch.

Specifically,  engineers in Toyota found a new way to make the electronic power steering support - that's a bit of pure driving experience. This is no small contribute to a new supplier of shock absorbers, which made it possible to emphasize the feeling of agility and sharpen handling. "This is a typical requirement of European customers", says in an interview *Kristof Muylle, "the Japanese driver absolutely insists conservative management understanding of vehicle stability, especially the last part."

Despite sedan genetics, driving dynamics are not neglected including good traction in cornering and solid, if not perfect steering precision.

All in all, globally nothing new! Avensis remains one of the leaders of the class.

*Kristof Muylle, development project manager Avensis

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Peugeot 301 or Citroën C-Elysée -- Price Appearance Performance and Comparison

Peugeot 301 or Citroën C-Elysée -- Price  Appearance  Performance and Comparison

APPEARANCE

The lines of the Citroën C-Elysée is in harmony with the volume and accentuate its character: modern and spacious. The elegance of the Citroën C-Elysée will not leave you indifferent. 

Peugeot 301  has a traditional design features for Peugeot, and therefore, will already have won elegant style, distinctive silhouette and harmonious lines, creating  a modern look and robust vehicle. Peugeot 301 confirms their identity with characteristic design on the front part, elegant form, suggesting an internal space.

INTERIOR

Spacious, the interior of the Citroën C-Elysée is worthy of big limos according to the image of the dashboard in an appealing and modern appearance. The seats are very comfortable and can be selected combined fabric / leather. 

Same like Citroen, inside the Peugeot 301 is very spacious. The center console is very similar with the one in the Citroen, also the dashboard is similar, and if the logo is not placed on the steering wheel it will be hard to recognize which model is Citroën C-Elysée and witch is Peugeot 301.

PRICE

The price for these two cars is similar. A similar level of equipment and the cost of about 10,000 euros, these two cars are a good choice if you need a car that has an interesting look pretty space and low fuel consumption. 

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2015 Suzuki Vitara 1.6 4WD Test Drivre - Off-Road and On-Road

2015 Suzuki Vitara 1.6 4WD Test Drivre

The new Vitara is the latest model in offering Suzuki, producer for many years convinces us that they can make SUV car. Just genuine, inclusive of solid off-road features, high functionality and all-wheel drive, which is missing in many competitors. And besides, Vitara comes with a modern and sporty design.

The new model is launched 25 years after the introduction of the original Vitara, a model that has set standards in the class and who is still used from real lovers of driving off the road. But aside driving on the terrain, does the new Vitara have enough aces up in sleeve for setting a real blow to best in class?

Design

The new Vitara follows the design of its predecessor and from the model Jimny, but with completely much more dynamic and sportier look. Particularly striking front grille, constructed with trapezoidal air vents and angular lights, while from side, thanks to the small windows and high pages, gives a sense of robustness. Aerodynamic view the full body highlights the dynamic and sporting character.

In the interior, there is enough change from other models of Suzuki, to capture sporting effect. Ventilation holes are circular, while the center console is made with a special frame, which emphasizes luxury. Totally speaking, Vitara is a true refreshment in the range of Suzuki.

Performance

The model that we had the test was equipped with the well-known 1.6 liter petrol engine with 120 hp at 6,000 rev / min and 156 Nm at 4,400 r / min. The atmospheric engine naturally requires turning to red field to achieve maximum performance, and despite having no turbocharger, enough is elastic and has an extremely linear delivery of power.

The numbers say that the acceleration to 100km/h  is 12 seconds for the model with all-wheel drive (11.5 for that drive only the front), a figure which in reality appears as very high, that feeling is like a car accelerating and under 11 seconds. The maximum speed is still 180 km / h, which is probably more than enough for a compact SUV.

Manageability / Comfort

The sporty exterior design, announces that Vitara is a dynamic and agile car. Indeed, the choice of mode Sport, Japanese SUV is pretty fun, and allows quick changes of direction, especially because it is not tilted too much in a whirl. In this mode steering is precise and direct and the engine quickly match the accelerator.

Mentioned mode Sport? Yes, AWLGRIP with all-wheel drive available are four different operating modes. Auto is designed to save fuel and mostly uses only front-wheel drive, but need to include the rear wheels in order to maximize security. Sport longer use rear wheels and brings several other improvements that we have mentioned above.

Snow is for slippery surfaces such as snow, mud, etc. and prevents the vehicle slipping off the set line. Lock mode continuously transmits power to all wheels and is intended to drive the field. In this mode we were able to have fun and off-road, the gravel as rally car, something that can hardly any other car segment.

Refinement

We were happily surprised by the high level of sound insulation. The engine is heard only at the highest speeds, while at higher speeds there is not much wind and the sound of wheels. The interior is great and isolated from vibrations from the engine, who also works quite smoothly.

Area / Practicality

Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the cabin has room for adult passengers in the front and rear seats, and 375 liters of trunk, which is also a good figure. Throughout the cabin, there are enough places to delay trifles and we especially liked those phones that are put on a great place and great keeping our devices. Rear seat can be folded and then gets flat and usable floor to load long items. Complete, in terms of convenience and offer comfort, Vitara is among the best models in the segment.

Besides the correct price, very strong side by the Vitara is low consumption, even in petrol model. On the test, spent 7.6 liters in city (6.5 default), or less than 6 liters of open, that for petrol SUV with all-wheel drive is an excellent result.

Conclusion

The compact SUV cars are becoming more popular among customers, and consequently, manufacturers extract more and more such models, making the choice more difficult. However, many of the models in the class are just ordinary compact cars, slightly raised off the ground, making it Vitara one of the few that brings real benefits of an SUV car or real off-road capabilities, improved traction with all-wheel drive and higher levels of functionality. And all this accompanied by a modern and appealing design.

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