Lexus RX 450h, 2013

 

 

 Lexus RX 450h, 2013

6-Speed Multi-mode Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shift Control
The 6-speed automatic transmission of the RX 350 F SPORT versions is now equipped with a steering wheel-mounted paddle shift control. The paddle switches can be used even with the gear selector in D range, allowing the driver to quickly change to fixed range mode without the need to engage S range via the gear lever.

The new, upgraded Lexus RX model range made its world debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The new RX exterior features a new, more elegant and aggressive frontal design. An enhanced interior offers an expanded choice of colour schemes, new trim finishes, a new steering wheel, a revised instrument binnacle and a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).

The versatility of the European flagship RX 450h's Lexus Hybrid Drive system has been enhanced by the addition of a Sport mode, supplementing the full hybrid powertrain's Normal, Eco and EV (electric only) drive modes. The EV mode can now be activated with a separate switch.

Further enhancing the dynamic and sporting character of the new RX and designed to attract new customers to the model range, a new F SPORT version will be available. Expected to account for some 30% of future model range sales, the new F SPORT grade features bespoke exterior and interior design and driving dynamics technology.

With the launch of the first RX in 1998, Lexus created the Luxury SUV segment, combining, for the first time, all the flexibility, practicality and durability of a Sports Utility Vehicle with the handling, performance, refinement and ride of a luxury sedan.

The RX was the first ever SUV to be equipped with a full hybrid powertrain in 2005. Today, after three generations, two of which have been equipped with Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, the RX remains a key model for Lexus.

Interior Design
Further broadening the appeal of its spacious, luxurious and technically advanced dual-zone 'crossover' cockpit, the new RX interior features an expanded choice of colour schemes, new trim finishes, a new steering wheel, a revised instrument binnacle and a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).

Adding to the choice of interior colour schemes available, Saddle Tan, and F SPORT-exclusive Black and White Grey designs join the existing Ivory, Black and Light Grey line-up.

The choice of trim inserts has also increased; luxurious Walnut and classic Dark Grey complimented by the addition of modern, Dark Grey bird's eye maple and F SPORT-exclusive Silver finishes.

Clearly differentiating it from the smooth leather finish, the semi-aniline leather upholstery now incorporates diamond shaped perforations. Seat stitching has been enhanced by the use of thicker thread and more prominent colours, and the dashboard design enlivened through the addition of a matt silver insert above the glovebox.

A new, more comfortable steering wheel features a cross-section which is no longer uniform throughout its circumference. Its varying profile allows for a relaxing grip and smooth steering inputs. Wood finish steering wheels are now available with heated rims.

The driver's instrument binnacle of RX 450h versions is equipped with a new Hybrid System Indicator design featuring clearly delineated, Charge, Eco and Power zones. New ambient illumination changes according to both driving conditions and the selected drive mode.

In EV (electric only), Eco or Normal drive modes, when the Hybrid System Indicator needle is in the Charge or Eco zones, the ambient illumination is blue. It will extinguish if the needle enters the Power zone. In Sport mode, the ambient illumination remains red at all times.

The centre console box has been extensively revised to enhance its practicality. The console lid opening angle has been increased to 95 degrees to improve access. Both the USB port and accessory socket have been moved closer to the top of the box interior, which now features a closable door and a removable divider plate.

The new RX model range is equipped with a second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI). This Lexus-unique, multi-function control device has been enhanced for increased user-friendliness and ease of operation. It now features the world's first slide-type joystick control mechanism which functions much like a computer mouse, and the ENTER command is now accomplished simply by pushing the controller.

In conjunction with enhanced RTI control, the multimedia system's full colour LED display now has multi-screen capability. This allows for the permanent display -and independent control- of three types of information simultaneously, such as map, vehicle information, audio, navigation input, air conditioner functions and incoming call.

Exterior Design
The new Lexus RX range is hallmarked by a bold, elegant and highly individual frontal treatment which adopted throughout the brand to strengthen the Lexus family identity between model ranges.
The inverted trapezoid upper grille and slanted lower grille have been combined and integrated into a single element, bridging the bumper mid-section to create a prominent 'spindle' shape. Reinforcing this more modern and bolder identity, the lower grille now features horizontal bars and is finished in black.

Positioned on a higher plane than the grille itself -a unique Lexus characteristic- a new, clear lens headlamp cluster design incorporates a choice of halogen, High Intensity Discharge (HID) or Light Emitting Diode (LED) headlamps. The headlamps are underscored by integral LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) which form the L-finesse arrowhead motif, reinforcing the unique visual signature of the new RX model range.

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Land Rover Range Rover Sport, 2014

 

 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, 2014

The all-new Land Rover Range Rover Sport has been designed to capture the distinctive DNA of its predecessor, but with a bold evolution which has placed it firmly at the heart of the marque's striking new three-model portfolio between the Range Rover and the Evoque.

Range Rover Sport occupies a unique position within its segment, and the new model builds on those core strengths with a design which confirms its status as the definitive premium Sports SUV. With its 'faster' windscreen angle, streamlined profile and sloping roofline, the new Sport is 8 percent more aerodynamic than the previous model and achieves a drag figure of Cd 0.34.

While it was developed alongside the Range Rover and shares some commonality with its sister vehicle, the all-new Range Rover Sport benefits from 75 percent unique parts, a significant number of which directly influence the way the new Sport looks and feels.

"The new Range Rover Sport is the ultimate luxury SUV. A new Range Rover Sport for a new era. Relevant, sustainable and utterly desirable. Alongside the all new Range Rover, and the Range Rover Evoque, the new Range Rover Sport represents the third distinct product in Land Rover's product revolution. Firmly establishing it as a powerhouse British brand, with exceptional Design at its core," said Land Rover Design Director and Chief Creative Officer, Gerry McGovern.

Bold and progressive exterior design
The dynamic new Range Rover Sport has a bold and progressive exterior design which positions the vehicle confidently within the latest Range Rover line-up. With a fresh interpretation of the current model's strong design DNA, the new vehicle has a sleek and contemporary appearance, with its sloping roofline offering a distinctive sporting character.

The new Sport is just 62mm longer than its predecessor, yet at 4850mm, it is shorter than other 7-seater SUVs and most E segment sedans, bringing greater manoeuvrability and ease of parking. However, a significantly longer wheelbase (increased by 178mm) provides greater room and improved access for rear passengers. The new Sport is 149mm shorter and 55mm lower than the new Range Rover on which it is based and model-for-model weighs 45kg less.

Exciting new interpretations of Range Rover Sport design cues include the signature clamshell bonnet, floating roof and side fender vents. The vehicle also features bold new versions of the powerful wheel arch graphic, horizontal body feature lines and distinctive rocker mouldings which are key elements of the model's strong DNA.

While retaining the powerful Range Rover Sport character, the front end has a more modern, streamlined appearance, with its slimmer lights, rearward sloping grille and more sculpted corners.

Eye-catching details
Eye-catching design details serve to emphasise the new Range Rover Sport's more dynamic and contemporary character. The side fender vents are executed with a more dynamic, sloping treatment. Matching twin vents are executed in the bonnet, enhancing the powerful and sporting character of the vehicle.

Designers have also continued the classic Range Rover Sport two-bar theme, reflected in the twin strakes on the fender vents, the two bar front grille, and the twin lines in the tail lamp graphics.

Near-flush side glazing, combined with a premium gloss black finish to the pillars, enhance the bold Range Rover Sport floating roof graphic - which can be highlighted with three contrast roof colours of grey, black or silver - while also emphasising the more streamlined form of the body. Brembo brake calipers finished in red and a Black Pack, which removes all brightwork from the exterior, are also available to create a more bespoke appearance.

At the front, the large outboard air intakes and bold trapezoidal shapes housing the central bumper beam and skid plate send out a strong, high performance message. The same trapezoidal theme is repeated at the rear, with the skid plate flanked by large twin exhaust outlets.

The front lamps continue the bold evolution of the Sport, with highly distinctive LED signature graphics which feature a new distinctive graphic. The slimmer design creates a more aggressive, technical appearance.

At the rear, the lamps have a more compact treatment with a striking new design that uses LED technology. The main tail and stop lamps echo the headlamps' distinctive design language, while the direction indicators use a new interpretation of the 'twin line' graphic from the current model.

Both front and rear lamps flow round into the shoulders of the body with the distinctive tapering blade graphic featured on the other vehicles in the latest Range Rover portfolio.

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Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Squadra Corse, 2014

 

 

 Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Squadra Corse, 2014

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Squadra Corse was presented for the first time at the 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show. The Squadra Corse delivers high levels of performance while bringing the thrills associated with motorsport to the street-legal world. This new and most extreme model in the Gallardo line-up is based on the Gallardo Super Trofeo, the race car that features in the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo - the world's fastest one-make series. The Squadra Corse will be a limited production model, priced at € 191.100, plus tax.

The name Squadra Corse refers to the recently-founded department within Automobili Lamborghini, which manages all motorsport activities from GT3 to the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo championships in Europe, Asia and America, where gentlemen drivers participate in fiercly contested battles on the most challenging racetracks in the world.

The new Gallardo Squadra Corse is derived directly from the race car. Both share the same V10 engine, which is used in the racing version with no modifications. Likewise, the Squadra Corse has the same rear wing for greater aerodynamic load - achieving, under the best aerodynamic conditions, three times the load of the Gallardo LP 560-4 - for increased dynamic stability during tight high-speed cornering. Another element taken directly from the racing version is the removable engine hood equipped with a quick-release system. Both the rear wing and the hood are made from carbon composite material, as are a host of other components on the Squadra Corse.

Lightweight construction through consistent use of carbon fiber
Together with aluminum, carbon fiber forms the basis for construction of the new, extremely lightweight, top-of-the-range Gallardo.

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Squadra Corse boasts a dry weight of 1340 kilograms, 70 less than the already lean Gallardo LP 560-4, which gives the Squadra Corse a stunning power-to-weight ratio of 2.35 kilograms per hp. Different delivering breathtaking performance, it sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.4 seconds and reaches 200 km/h in just 10.4 seconds. Its forward thrust finally tops out at 320 km/h. The production-standard carbon-ceramic brake system guarantees unmatched stopping power.

The technology and the powertrain
Like the Super Trofeo competition version, the new Squadra Corse is based on the technical underpinnings of the Gallardo Superleggera. The V10 engine generates 570 hp, the equivalent of 419 kW, which is fully available at 8,000 rpm. The V10's unique firing order delivers the striking sound heard from its motor racing equivalent. Like the race car, the Gallardo Squadra Corse comes as standard with the robotized e-gear six-speed transmission operated by steering wheel paddles. This electronically controlled system shifts through its six gears smoothly and much faster than any professional racing driver could. Every kilometer driven in the Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Squadra Corse is packed with sheer excitement, in part due to its unrelenting grip in virtually all situations thanks to its all-wheel drive concept.

The Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo is the only single-brand racing series in the world that features all-wheel drive race cars. The Gallardo Squadra Corse is a highly concentrated driving machine that offers an unrivaled driving experience with breathtaking cornering speeds and fast, immediate response.

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Kia Cadenza, 2014

 

 Kia Cadenza, 2014

Kia has ever introduced in North America, the Cadenza expands Kia's long list of award-winning vehicles while moving the brand up-market with an impressive selection of premium standard and available equipment, including Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Lane-Departure Warning System (LDWS). The Kia Cadenza is offered in one trim level, known as Premium, with a starting MSRP of $35,100, plus $800 destination and handling.

Sophisticated Features and Technology
Offered in one opulently equipped trim level, the Kia Cadenza takes in-car technology and premium features to an entirely new level. Standard features include an advanced navigation system with SiriusXM Traffic™ and UVO eServices, displayed on a high resolution 8-inch touch screen. Further enhancing driver assurance is a standard back-up camera and warning system, as well as a premium 550-watt Infinity 12-speaker audio system including rear surround speakers and subwoofer. The Kia Cadenza's standard equipment level is on par with many premium brands and boasts standard leather seat trim, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear seat ventilation, Smart Key keyless entry with push-button start, 10-way power adjustable driver's seat and Bluetooth wireless technology. Two option packages are offered: The Premium Package and the Technology Package.

Check the box for the Premium Package and receive a full-length panoramic sunroof with power retractable sunshade, HID headlamps with adaptive front lighting system (AFLS), 7-inch TFT LCD instrument cluster, premium Nappa leather seats, a memory enabled 12-way ventilated driver's seat with seat cushion extension for unsurpassed comfort, heated front and rear outboard seats, heated steering wheel with power tilt and telescoping steering column, as well as a power rear sunshade for enhanced comfort and privacy.

Stepping up to the Technology Package adds sleek 19-inch alloy wheels, electric parking brake and Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC), which maintains a set distance to the vehicle ahead and can bring the car to a full stop if necessary. The package also includes water repellant hydrophobic windshield, a radar-based Blind Spot Detection system (BSD) and a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) that provides audible and visual alerts to the driver should they inadvertently veer into another lane without using the turn signal.

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Jeep Cherokee, 2014

 

 Jeep Cherokee, 2014

Jeep 4x4 capability
The all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee provides a choice of three innovative 4x4 systems for best-in-class 4x4 capability in all weather conditions. The Jeep Cherokee is the first mid-size SUV to feature rear-axle disconnect, resulting in reduced energy loss when 4x4 capability isn't needed, improving fuel efficiency. The rear-axle disconnect seamlessly switches between two- and four-wheel drive for full-time torque management and does not require input from the driver.

Jeep Active Drive I
Available on the Cherokee Sport, Latitude and Limited models, Jeep Active Drive I features a single power transfer unit (PTU) which is fully automatic and delivers seamless operation in and out of four-wheel drive at any speed. The system does not require any driver intervention or feedback, delivers yaw correction during dynamic events and improves both understeer and oversteer conditions.

Jeep Active Drive II
Available on the Cherokee Sport, Latitude and Limited models, Jeep Active Drive II includes a two-speed PTU with torque management and low range. 4-Low mode locks the front and rear drive shafts for low-speed power or towing. Low range provides a 2.92:1 gear reduction. The gear reduction allows for enhanced climbing ability as well outstanding crawl ratios for severe off-road conditions. The 2014 Jeep Cherokee with Jeep Active Drive II gives the off-road adventurer a ride height that is increased by an inch, a crawl ratio of 56:1 when powered by the 2.4-liter MultiAir2 Tigershark I-4 engine, and 47.8:1 when powered by the new 3.2-liter Pentastar V-6 engine - up to a 90-percent improvement versus the outgoing model.

Jeep Active Drive Lock
Jeep Active Drive Lock includes all the features of Jeep Active Drive II and adds a locking rear differential for superior low-speed power for severe off-road conditions. Jeep Active Drive Lock is standard on all Trailhawk models.

All 4x4 systems feature the Jeep brand's renowned Selec-Terrain traction control system, which allows the driver to choose the on- and off-road setting for optimum performance. Five customized settings are offered: Auto, Snow, Sport, Sand/Mud and Rock. Through the use of algorithms that enable unsurpassed control and capability, Selec-Terrain electronically coordinates and optimizes up to 12 systems on any terrain providing enhanced vehicle control including: drivetrain control module, electronic brake controller, electronic stability control (ESC), transmission controller, powertrain controller and Selec-Speed Control (Hill-ascent and Hill-descent Control).

Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk: Trail Rated
The all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk model exemplifies Jeep 4x4 capability with a distinctive, aggressive look, backed up by Jeep Trail Rated hardware, for the most capable Jeep Cherokee model and the most capable mid-size SUV in the segment. The Trailhawk includes as standard equipment aggressive approach and departure angles, complements of the unique front and rear fascias, one-inch factory lift, Jeep Active Drive Lock with locking rear differential, skid plates and signature red tow hooks. The locking rear differential is selectable in any low range terrain mode, but will lock automatically when in certain modes, such as "Rock," to maximize tractive effort at the tire patch that can support it.

The Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk boasts an approach angle of 29.8 degrees, a departure angle of 32.1 degrees and breakover angle of 23.3 degrees. Running ground clearance is 8.7 inches.

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Jaguar F-Type V6, 2014

 

 

 Jaguar F-Type V6, 2014

The new Jaguar F-Type represents a return to the company's heart: a two-seat, convertible sports car focused on performance, agility and driver involvement. The F-Type is a continuation of a sporting bloodline that stretches back more than 75 years and encompasses some of the most beautiful, thrilling and desirable sports cars ever built. Joining the XK convertible and coupe models, the new F-Type provides Jaguar with a broader line of sports and GT models.

The 2014 Jaguar F-Type combines low vehicle weight (starting at 3,521 pounds), high power (340hp, 380hp and 495hp versions) and superb aerodynamics to achieve a pure sports car experience, yet with Jaguar elegance and luxury.

A true two-seat sports car, the all-new Jaguar F-Type is equipped with a modern, lightweight soft top that, when lowered, serves as its own tonneau cover. This not only provides a weight savings, but also improves packaging and contributes to the car's low center of gravity for greater agility. The top can be fully raised or lowered in just 12 seconds at speeds of up to 30 mph. Its multi-layer construction includes a Thinsulate® lining for optimal thermal and sound-insulating properties.

EXTERIOR DESIGN
Jaguar cars have always defined sinuous, muscular elegance, and the F-Type continues - and advances - this tradition with new, assertive design language. Two "heartlines" define, in just two bold strokes, both the profile and top-down view of the Jaguar F-Type. The main "heartline" theme begins in the blade dissecting the shark-like gills on either side of the grille. This first heartline runs up and forms the sharp top crease of the fender line, which provides sight lines that aid the driver in cornering maneuvers. It leads the eye along the top of the front fender, which is emphasized by the headlamp design, and then into the door and toward the rear of the car where it gracefully disappears.

This sweeping line is mirrored by the feature line that runs back from the side vent. Along with "lightcatcher" surface detailing above the sill, the line instills a sense of speed to the car. The lightcatcher surface detailing also allows the door surface to wrap around the side of the car, creating a fuselage effect.

The second "heartline" swells out to form the muscular rear haunch before sweeping dramatically around the rear of the car. The clean, sleek lines of the tail are made possible in part by the inclusion of an active rear spoiler that deploys at speed to reduce aerodynamic lift. The spoiler rises when the F-Type reaches 60 mph and then lowers to fit flush when the speed drops below 40 mph. Further discreet aerodynamic aids include a front splitter and a sculpted rear valance.

The headlights run vertically rather than horizontally, which leads the eye naturally up and along the fender crease. Technology has facilitated the design language of the Jaguar F-Type; the compact xenon unit requires just one projector, while the J-Blade LED running lights further emphasize the design of the heartline running through the lamp.

The grille leans slightly forward to create a suggestion of motion when the car is stationary. The lower edge of the clamshell hood forms the top of the side vent. The mesh in the grille and side vents is a hexagonal design that gives greater form and depth.

The hidden, automatically deploying door handles support the design purity. The handles remain flush with the door panel until activated by either unlocking the car with the key fob or touching a touch-sensitive area of the handle. Their automatic deployment provides a mechanical "handshake," inviting the driver and passenger to enter. Once the car is moving, the handles retract to leave an uninterrupted aerodynamic surface.

Full LED rear lamps create a new Jaguar sports car signature by reinterpreting classic cues from the past. By wrapping the lights around to the trailing edge of the rear wheel arch, the car's powerful rear-wheel drive stance is emphasized. Reflecting the way the front grille leans forward, the tail tucks inward, reinforcing the impression that the car is poised to leap forward.

Differing exhaust and tailpipe designs distinguish the V6 and V8 variants of the F-Type. The V6 models feature twin center outlets in a nod to the classic Jaguar E-Type introduced in 1961. The boldest exhaust finishers ever fitted to a Jaguar, these are stamped from a single piece of stainless steel, creating an unbroken gleaming surface. The V8 S model exclusively features four outboard-mounted exhaust outlets, with twin outlets on each side.

Further detail differentiation between the three variants is found in the exterior trim. The Jaguar F-Type V6 model is marked by satin black trim elements in the grilles, vents, front splitter and rear valance, while the two 'S' models receive gloss-black finishes in these areas. The V6 model features standard 18-inch alloy wheels, with 19-inch and 20-inch wheels standard for the S and V8 S, respectively, and available as options for the V6. The V8 S also receives additional aerodynamic features, including front vanes beneath the shark gills and flat side sill extensions to manage airflow.

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Honda Civic Coupe, 2014

 

 

 Honda Civic Coupe, 2014

The following a major refresh of Civic Sedan styling for 2013, Honda turns its attention to the Honda Civic Coupe and Coupe Si, implementing a host of exterior design changes that include a more aggressive grille, hood, front fenders and headlight design. Additional Coupe exterior changes include new taillight lenses, sportier front and rear bumpers, new side mirrors and new wheel designs.

The Honda Civic Si Coupe benefits from the same styling enhancements as the standard Civic Coupe but adds Si-exclusive design cues, including a unique lower front bumper garnish, larger rear decklid spoiler, a distinctive front spoiler and sporty rear air diffuser. The Civic Si Sedan picks up on these same cues, and both the Si Coupe and Si Sedan get larger, 18-inch (+1 inch) wheels and tires with new wheel designs.

The performance-tuned Honda Civic Si Coupe and Si Sedan also get a retuned exhaust system that helps boost peak output to 205 horsepower (+4 horsepower) and 174 lb-ft of torque (+4 ft-lb).

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GMC Sierra HD, 2015

 

 

 GMC Sierra HD, 2015

Designed to deliver class-leading capability with enhanced comfort and smarter technologies, the new 2015 GMC Sierra HD lineup advances a 111-year legacy of professional heavy-duty trucks.

The new Sierra HDs arrive in the first quarter of 2014, including 2500HD and 3500HD models, and the Sierra Denali HD, which matches do-it-all capability with an exclusive package of design and upscale interior amenities.

Segment-leading capabilities across the range include the highest payload - 7,374 pounds - and the highest conventional trailering rating - 19,600 pounds. The maximum fifth-wheel trailering rating is 23,200 pounds. Gas and Duramax diesel powertrains are offered, including a bi-fuel option that pairs the gas engine with a compressed natural gas system.

Bold styling and an all-new, more comfortable and technology-infused interior are carried forward from the 2014 Sierra 1500, including new double cab and revised crew cab body styles. Larger rear doors on each, along with new seat designs, enable easier entry and exit from the rear seat and two inches of additional legroom on crew cabs.

The new interior is also designed to help drivers and passengers whether they're on the job or on a weekend getaway, with easier-to-reach, more intuitively located controls, more storage compartments, more plug-ins for electronic devices and the latest-generation GMC IntelliLink infotainment system - with an eight-inch-diagonal color touch screen.

Additional new and enhanced features for the 2015 GMC Sierra HD lineup:

• CornerStep rear bumper, EZ Lift and Lower tailgate, standard upper tie-downs and other features that make cargo handling easier
• Standard StabiliTrak with Trailer Sway Control on all models, including 3500HD dually
• Integrated cruise control, auto grade braking and diesel exhaust braking (diesel models), for greater driving control and reduced brake wear on grades
• Enhanced cooling airflow, which enables the Duramax turbo diesel and 6.0L gas engine to better maintain full power, even under heavy loads and high ambient temperatures
• Latest-generation IntelliLink infotainment system, which offers a variety of connectivity options for devices of all types and available navigation

Sierra Denali HD details
The distinctive Sierra Denali HD features a signature Denali chrome grille, unique interior decorative trim, a polished stainless steel exhaust outlet (gas models) and body-color front and rear bumpers. Complementing the soft-touch instrument panel trim and aluminum trim are Denali-specific interior details, including script on the bright door sills and embossed into the front seats.

Sierra Denali's high-tech interior also features an exclusive eight-inch customizable driver display that can show relevant settings, audio and navigation information in the instrument panel. Sierra Denali's standard eight-inch Color Touch navigation radio with Intellilink, located above the center console, serves as the main hub for Bluetooth-connected phones and portable devices connected through five standard USB ports.

Other features standard on Sierra Denali include projector-style headlamps with light-emitting diode signature daytime running lights, a Bose audio system, heated and cooled leather front bucket seats, a heated steering wheel and a power sliding rear window with defogger.

GMC Sierra HD design and exterior features
Sierra HD trucks have a new face that conveys GMC's professional grade aesthetic with greater technical precision, including an all-new headlamp and grille design, power-dome hood - with specific badging on Duramax-equipped models - and a one-piece chrome bumper (body-color bumper on Denali). SLT and Denali models feature GMC's signature C-shaped LED daytime running lamps within the headlamp housings.

The new exterior design backs up its bold, advanced styling with efficiency-enhancing functionality. Improved aerodynamics allow the trucks to slip through the air with less drag and reduced wind noise, while the new grille design supports enhanced engine-cooling performance. It enhances efficiency and ensures Sierra HD delivers optimal performance under the toughest conditions, such as towing on a mountain grade.

New inlaid doors, which fit into recesses in the bodyside, help reduce wind noise for a quieter cab, while details including like the roof and tailgate spoiler were tuned in the wind tunnel to smooth airflow over the truck for reduced noise and improved aerodynamic efficiency.

Like the 2014 Sierra 1500, a new double cab body replaces the previous extended cab. It features longer, front-hinged rear doors with outside pull handles at the rear, providing improved access in tight parking spaces. New structural B-pillars were added to add to a solid feel.

Unlike trucks with rear-hinged doors, Sierra's double cab design allows rear passengers to enter and exit the vehicle with the front doors remaining closed. Crew cabs feature resized doors, too, including longer rear doors, which also make it easier to climb in and out of the rear seat.

Approximately 67 percent of each cab is constructed with high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels, used in the A-pillars, B-pillars, rockers and roof rails, as well strategic sections on the interior structure. Ultra-high-strength steel is used in areas of the rocker panels and underbody to help improve performance in crashes.

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Ford F-150 STX Super Crew, 2014

 

Ford F-150 STX Super Crew, 2014

The Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew meets the needs of first-time and returning value-conscious pickup truck customers, especially those who need to transport a crew to a job site or take the family on a trip.

Positioned between the work-ready XL and popular XLT models, STX offers upgraded exterior and interior features beyond what's usually available for entry-level crew cab pickups:

• Body-color front bumper fascia, grille surrounds, and front and rear step bumpers
• Power Equipment Group, which includes power door locks, integrated keyhead transmitter remotes, power one-touch up/down windows and sideview mirrors, Illuminated Entry System and perimeter alarm
• 17-inch machined aluminum wheels
• Audio input jack
• Cruise control
• Customer information display
• MyKey , a programmable feature that allows fleet owners and parents to limit top speed and audio volume, and set speed-alert chimes to encourage safer driving
• Outside temperature display
• Front-row 40/20/40 premium cloth bench seat
• Driver manual lumbar adjust
• Air conditioning
• Advance Trac with Roll Stability Control
• Tilt steering wheel
• AM/FM stereo with single CD player

Ford F-150 STX comes standard with a 302-horsepower, 278-lb.-ft.-of-torque 3.7-liter V6 engine, delivering an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. Ford F-150 also offers the half-ton segment's only available compressed natural gas prep package.

A 5.0-liter V8 rated at 360 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque is also available, enabling STX Super Crew to tow up to 9,500 pounds when properly equipped.

The new STX Sport Package adds:

• 20-inch machined aluminum painted wheels with P275/55R20 tires
• Black billet grille with body-color surround
• Black tubular running boards
• Black and Gray Piston cloth front seats (40/console/40 on SuperCab and SuperCrew, 40/20/40 on Regular Cab)
• Color-coordinated carpet
• Unique box decals

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Fiat 500L Trekking, 2014

 

 

 

 Fiat 500L Trekking, 2014

The new Fiat 500L Trekking, a free spirit with two perfectly fused souls which love to play off one another every day: one metropolitan, for breezing through the city, and one more adventurous, perfect for those little weekend pleasures that make life worth living.

The all-round character of the new Fiat 500L Trekking is clear at first glance: specially designed bumpers, front and rear protective shield and a high ride (+10% compared to the 500L with a resulting total ground clearance of 145 mm) for tackling rough terrain with ease. The exterior also features a host of style-enhancing details, such as satin finish inserts on bumpers and side mouldings which perfectly complement the door handles.

A superlative expression of Italian manufacturing, the Fiat 500L Trekking is a highly functional car, able to "dialogue" with the user and offer quality to appreciate over the years. For example, one of its particular characteristics is the extensive internal volume, achieved by a thorough effort to reduce the size of mechanical parts, through the collaboration of designers and engineers. If the vehicle's architecture generally follows the principles of "cab forward", from which the frontal reduction of the body and bonnet section to achieve more available interior space is derived - especially at the height of the waistline and roof - it is above all the "empathetic" vocation of the 500L Trekking's design that enhances the overall ergonomics of the car. The new model also boasts an extensive view of the outside and the greatest brightness of its category as it has the largest roof of its segment - 1.5 square metres of glass surface - and its windscreen pillars have been cleverly divided and slimmed to offer clear advantages in terms of active and passive safety as well.

Inside, the new high-tech fabric for seat upholstery and trims features eco-leather inserts. A style that never compromises on functionality, thanks, among other things, to the wraparound glazing and the glazed windscreen pillars which ensure enhanced visibility, in addition to convenient storage compartments for all your essential items. Amongst other things, the 500L Trekking lets you live your passions to the max, thanks also to its superb flexibility: this is obvious in the host of possible seat adjustments, such as the front passenger seat with folding table backrest, or the split rear seats which, thanks to the fold&tumble function, can be folded down flat to provide you with a flat loading surface that exploits the entire length of the car.

The 500L Trekking is available in seven exciting body colours - Cappuccino Beige, Cinema Black, Moda Grey, Gelato White, Toscana Green, Amore Red and the brand-new Sorrento yellow - combined with black or white roof, resulting in a total of 17 colour combinations.

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