Mitsubishi Outlander US-Version, 2014

 

 

 Mitsubishi Outlander US-Version, 2014

The  new styling inside and out, a new engine equipped with next-generation MIVEC variable valve-timing, technologically-advanced safety features and a lightweight, aerodynamically-enhanced body, the new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander (starting net MSRP of only $22,995) is expected to be one of the most fuel-efficient compact CUVs with standard 7-passenger seating available to automotive consumers in North America with 31 mpg highway (ES and SE FWD models).

Powered by either a refined 2.4-liter inline-4-cylinder (Outlander ES and SE models; Outlander SE starting net MSRP is only $23,795 - a $200 savings from last year's SE model) or a workhorse yet fuel-efficient 3.0-liter V-6 (Outlander GT model; starting net MSRP is a full $800 less than last year's comparable GT model at $27,795), The all-new 2014 Outlander is latest CUV offering by Mitsubishi Motors providing the ideal blend of exquisite styling, performance, ecology and comfort - all at a very affordable price point. Mitsubishi 4WD heritage is showcased in the availability of Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) with the mid-grade Outlander SE model and standard on the high-grade Outlander GT model.

Making an important contribution to the new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander's efficiency and eco-friendly nature is a new driver-activated ECO-mode setting that is standard on all 2014 Outlander models. ECO-mode helps to further reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by slightly reducing engine power on initial acceleration as well as the airflow volume of the air conditioning. Furthermore, when Outlander models equipped with Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) are driven with 4WD engaged, the driver-activated ECO-mode will allow the vehicle to function as a 2WD vehicle until sensors instantaneously reactivate 4WD when deemed necessary (poor road or weather conditions, etc.).
Inspired Aesthetics, Both Inside and Out

With its eye-catching, thoroughly modern all-new sheet-metal design, the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander is one of the most aerodynamically-efficient vehicles in its class and represents a full 7% reduction in aerodynamic drag (down to a Cd of only 0.33 - very streamlined for a crossover/SUV) when compared to the previous-generation Outlander.

Much of the credit for this wind-cheating low-drag configuration goes to the streamlined and much tidier in appearance front fascia. This new-look front end treatment emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency just as much as it does a crisp and clean design aesthetic.

Another great contributor to the new 2014 Outlander's excellent fuel economy is the extensive use of highly-tensile steel in the car's body; it now tips the scales about 200 pounds less than the body of the previous-generation vehicle.

Not to be outdone, the new 2014 Outlander's clean, contemporary-looking interior receives an entirely new makeover as well that features vastly improved premium surfaces and high-grade materials including a soft-touch instrument panel, attractive high-gloss piano black center console panel and, standard in the top-level Outlander GT model, rich wood grain appearance trim.

Helping to make the cabin exceptionally quiet is an abundant use of high-grade sound insulation material throughout the vehicle. And for additional comfort and improved ergonomics, all seven of the passenger seating sections have been completely reconfigured - with the designers paying particular attention to making the fold-flat seats (2nd and 3rd row seating sections; 2nd row is 60/40 folding while 3rd row is 50/50) easier to operate and allowing up to 128.6 cubic feet of passenger room.

Other points of refinement included at no cost to the consumer as part of the new 2014 Outlander's standard equipment package include automatic climate control with micron filter; tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment; electric power steering; redesigned steering wheel with easy-to-use cruise control and audio system controls; premium security alarm system with remote keyless entry and engine immobilizer; an exquisite-sounding 6-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3-compatible audio system; intermittent rear wiper with washer; and halogen headlamps.

In addition to its comprehensive standard features, available options for the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander :
    Leather seating surfaces and rich wood grain appearance trim
    Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
    Heated front seats
    Automatic front dual-zone climate control
    Electric power tailgate (operated via center console switch or key fob)
   FUSE Handsfree Link system with USB/iPod port that features Bluetooth phone and streaming audio capabilities with voice recognition and commands
    FAST-key passive entry system with One-touch Start/Stop (OSS) engine switch
    710-watt Rockford-Fosgate Premium sound system with 9 speakers, including a 10-in. dual-voice coil subwoofer with Punch control, HD radio and DTS Neural Surround, PremiDIA-WIDE surround sound and Dolby Volume
    Sirius XM satellite radio
    MMCS Navigation system with 7-in. High Definition touch screen, voice command and SD card slot that features real-time traffic, diamond lane guidance, weather, fuel prices, 3D mapping and point-of-interest (POI) information
    Rearview camera system
    Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system with Active Front Differential (AFD)
    Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system
    Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) system
    Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system
    Super-wide beam High-Intensity Discharge (S-HID) headlights

Read More

Mini Clubman Concept, 2014

 

 

 

 Mini Clubman Concept, 2014

At the 2014 Geneva Motor Show MINI presents the MINI Clubman Concept, showcasing a new brand philosophy for a higher class of automobile. 26 centimeters longer and just under 17 centimeters wider than the current MINI Clubman, the Concept comes over as sophisticated, cool and elegant. The iconic design is supplemented by high-quality details, plenty of space for functional features and selected materials. Refinement of the hallmark MINI styling ensures instant recognition, both on the exterior and the interior. The extensive colour and material concept redefines contemporary elegance and high-end quality in this segment.

Supreme, dynamic, elegant - the exterior design
Even with larger exterior dimensions, the MINI Clubman Concept is instantly recognisable as a typical MINI. With the characteristic agility of the MINI proportions, the prolonged roof line clearly reflects the car's extensive utility space. It also gives the silhouette a distinctive elegance, underscored by generous surfaces. The powerful, warm Berry Red colour shows surfaces and shapes to optimum effect. The roof in the colour "Blade" - a metallic grey - creates an elegant contrast with the warm red of the corpus.

Classic MINI design icons such as the hexagonal radiator grille, Side Scuttles, Black Band and the typical lights are designed in precise, high-end style. The modern, reduced interpretation of these features gives the MINI Clubman Concept a more sophisticated, charismatic look. The themes of aerodynamics and air ducting are clearly highlighted in the exterior design. All openings and outlets are integrated in the geometry and elegantly shaped. Clearly defined wheel arches and the roof spoiler accentuate the car's dynamic appearance, underscoring the overall impression of sporty flair.

Typical MINI in every detail - the front section
Seen from the front, the circular headlamps, hexagonal radiator grille and roof with add-on look clearly identify the MINI Clubman Concept as belonging to the MINI family. The radiator grille is strikingly elaborated and incorporates the bumper in the front section. The bumper is finished in Black Chrome, adding a touch of exclusive style to this functional element. Elaborate details such as the three-dimensional structure of the chrome ribs inside the front grille further enhance the front section. The high quality standards of the MINI Clubman Concept even extend to the surface modelling. Fine edges add precision and presence to the generous surfaces.

In the lower area of the front-end design there is a continuous air inlet which highlights the breadth of the MINI Clubman Concept, thereby emphasising its solid standing on the road. Meanwhile a finely wrought chrome rib appears to hover inside the air inlet, giving this sporty detail a touch of exclusive appeal. In the outer section of the front apron there are so-called AirCurtains - an aerodynamic feature that gives the wheel arches an aerodynamically optimised closure. These dynamically surround the lower part of the front section like two brackets.

Plenty of space for characteristic dynamism - the side
Reduced to the essentials, the side view instantly conveys the qualities of the MINI Clubman Concept: a long wheelbase, flatly positioned windows and short overhangs reflect characteristic MINI agility. At the same time, the long roof line and the typical two-box design clearly emphasise the car's high level of functionality and its generous utility space. Meanwhile the four doors reflect the extended exterior dimensions and increased functionality. Generous surface expanses elongate the side, while at the same time subtle surface modelling and precise lines make the silhouette appear flat and dynamic. Three chrome elements give the side section a sense of exclusivity with modern understatement. At the front, the Side Scuttle incorporates the filigree mirror base and turn indicator in an elongated element whose shape is echoed by the two electrical door openers. Integrated flush with the surface, these draw a line back to the rear which is taken up by the rear door handles. Above this, the surrounding shoulder line in chrome offsets the corpus of the car from the greenhouse and roof in hallmark MINI style. This so-called Waistline Finisher embraces the entire passenger cell, reinforcing the exterior graphics so typical of the brand. The 19" light alloy rims in bicolour Black Chrome and Chrome finish are the highlight of the side view. A clear cup formation gives the elaborate multi-spoke design a highly dynamic touch. In between, glossy accents are added by non-cupped polished surfaces.

Aerodynamic details for optimum air ducting
The MINI Clubman Concept is the first MINI to be fitted with a so-called AirBreather at the side. The AirBreather echoes the design theme of the AirCurtains in the front apron, cutting dynamically into the surrounding Black Band. The elaborate double roof spoiler at the rear is shown to best advantage from the top view. The third brake light is integrated in between the two wings of the roof spoilers in Formula 1 style. There are also two longitudinal sections of plexiglass which run across the entire length of the roof like rally stripes. In conjunction with the roof spoiler, this means that the distinctive dynamic air typical of MINI is applied to the MINI Clubman Concept from a bird's-eye perspective, too.

Read More

MG 3, 2014

 

 MG 3, 2014

Launched in late 2013, MG has used the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show to preview the exciting new MG3 supermini, in the UK and European

Carrying forward the styling cues first illustrated on the MG Zero concept vehicle, the new European MG3 is a distinctive statement of modern British style designed to target young and style conscious buyers, wanting something that's fun to drive and own.

This unique and contemporary style was brought to the super-mini segment by the design and engineering team at the MG Birmingham site in Longbridge, UK. The MG3 will become the second in a new generation of MG vehicles to leave the assembly line at the Birmingham factory.

The British Style fun
MG's UK-based design team have given the new MG3 a cheeky touch of flair from every viewing angle.

There is an echo of the fun and sportiness that lies at the heart of the MG brand. With a rear valance insert inspired by generations of MG racing cars, a unique superelliptic tail pipe finished in chrome and a body-coloured tail spoiler, the MG3 looks distinctly sleek and sporty - a designer's dream.

Space for fun
Normally this is where the compromise comes on small sporty cars - but not with MG3. Fun, entertaining and easy to live with, the MG3 combines style and enjoyment with practical spaciousness. The designers and engineers have combined to create an exceptional amount of space and versatility in a very compact five-door package.

Extensive work from the MG Design and Engineering team on the architectural package has resulted in interior packaging that rivals or surpasses anything in its class. In a 4m long package, the MG3 easily accommodate four 6ft individuals; a level of accommodation typically associated with larger cars that mirrors the spaciousness of the MG6 range.

The MG3's 'rolled and raised' front dashboard design creates an airy forward cabin space and increased legroom, while allowing excellent access to primary and secondary controls. This theme is continued in the rear of the car, where the front seats are sculpted to allow rear passengers excellent space to travel in comfort.

Class-leading rear headroom is another characteristic which sets the MG3 apart. Many cars in the sector compromise on interior space, particularly in the rear. But rear headroom in the MG3 is more than generous.

Fun Boy3
Designed with the core value of being fun to drive, the MG3 chassis has been honed from hundreds of thousands of miles of testing on European roads. Intended to deliver impressive levels of body control, sharpness and a willingness to corner to engage keen drivers, MG's world class team of chassis engineers have also delivered sure footed handling and impressive ride comfort. Together this makes the MG3 suitable for every journey, from crowded urban routes, to flowing British B-roads or cruising on a European motorway.

The My MG3
In addition to a wide range of body colours a range of personalisation options, allowing the MG3 to be tailored to the individual behind the wheel. Roof, side and bonnet graphics allow owners to personalise their own MG3. Interior trims, wheels, vents, surrounds and mats available in a choice of designs, colours and finishes allowing you to make your MG3 truly personal.

Read More