Kia Forte, 2014

 

 

 Kia Forte, 2014

Pulling the silk off the all-new 2014 Kia Forte sedan at the 2012 Los Angeles International Auto Show, Kia Motors America (KMA) revealed a stunning European design-inspired sedan that makes it clear the Korean auto manufacturer has another winner in its line-up of sought-after cars and CUVs. Sitting on an all-new chassis that is longer, wider and lower than the previous-generation Forte, the all-new third-generation Kia Forte will offer more room, more performance and more premium amenities when it's expected to go on sale in the first quarter of 2013. The all-new 2014 Forte will be offered in LX and EX variants with a choice of an efficient 1.8-liter engine or a more powerful 2.0-liter engine.

Set to arrive at Kia retailers in early 2013, the all-new Forte will represent the heart of KMA's small-car line-up, replacing the current Forte, which has been a sales success story since launching in 2009. Slotted between the Rio sub-compact sedan and the best-selling Optima mid-size sedan, the all-new Kia Forte includes a raft of unexpected available premium features in a package that easily accommodates five passengers and their belongings.

Unexpected Premium Features
Offered in LX and EX trim levels, the all-new Forte proudly carries on Kia's reputation for offering premium features that redefine automotive segments. The LX model comes standard with steering wheel mounted audio controls, SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® wireless technology, power windows, air conditioning and power heated outside mirrors among the many features that make the Kia Forte stand out from its competition. The optional Popular Package adds 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, keyless entry with remote trunk release and a sliding front armrest. The Eco Package includes Kia's ISG (Idle Stop & Go) system, dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear seat ventilation and unique "eco" badge.

Stepping up to the EX trim broadens Forte's appeal with additional comfort and convenience features. Kia's next-generation UVO in-vehicle infotainment system with eServices is standard and can now be integrated with an optional navigation system. Additional standard EX features include remote keyless entry with trunk opener, rear camera back-up display, a sliding center armrest and a cooling glove box. The new optional Flex Steer system allows the driver to choose between three distinct steering profiles: Comfort, Normal and Sport. Features found in the optional Premium Package include heated front and rear seats, a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat with class-exclusive air-cooled ventilation, leather seat trim, power sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and push button start with Smart Key and a heated steering wheel. Opting for the Technology Package garners HID headlights, LED tail lights, a 4.2-inch color LCD cluster screen and dual-zone automatic temperature control with rear seat ventilation.

Enhanced Performance, Improved Ride and Handling
The all-new Kia Forte offers spirited performance thanks to two advanced four-cylinder engines. The LX features a 1.8-liter powerplant, while the EX comes standard with a 2.0-liter engine. Both engines feature dual continuously variable valve timing and a lightweight intake manifold that reduces weight by 30 percent over a cast unit. The aluminum "bed plate" located below the cylinder block reduces engine NVH levels and improves block rigidity by 30 percent.

With 148 horsepower available at 6,500 rpm and 131 lb.-ft. of torque on tap at 4,700 rpm, the 1.8-liter MPI inline four-cylinder engine found in the LX routes power to the front wheels through either a standard six speed manual transmission or an optional six speed automatic gearbox.

Kia Forte EX enhances the driving experience with a 173-horsepower (at 6,500 rpm) 2.0-liter inline four cylinder GDI engine. With a robust 154 lb.-ft. of torque available at 4,700 rpm, the EX comes standard with a six speed automatic.

The all-new Kia Forte rides on a chassis that is longer (by 1.2 inches), lower (0.6 inches) and wider (0.2 inches) than the previous Forte sedan. With its 106.3-inch wheelbase, two inches longer than the outgoing model, the all-new Forte rides on a McPherson strut front suspension and a coupled torsion beam rear axle. On-center steering feel is improved utilizing larger bushings and revised front suspension geometry. Electric power steering has replaced the hydraulic system from the previous Kia Forte, reducing parasitic load. Optional Flex Steer puts the driver firmly in control with settings for Comfort, Normal and Sport, which vary steering effort at the touch of a steering wheel-mounted button.

The base LX manual rides on 195/65R-15 tires, while 205/55R-16 tires on 16-inch alloy wheels are optional. The top-of-the-line EX is shod with the same 55-series tires. Low-profile 215/45-17 tires mounted on sporty 17-inch alloy wheels are optional.

Sport Sedan Design From California
With an aggressive stance, broad shoulders and a windshield rake that can only be described as sporty, the all-new Forte looks as good parked as it does carving through a remote canyon road. Influenced by European sport sedan styling, the Kia Forte's modern aesthetic was born in California at Kia's American Design Center in Irvine.

Dramatically swept headlight lenses cut deeply into the front fenders and incorporate projector headlamps. LED positioning lights create distinct eyebrows, making the Forte instantly recognizable in a crowd. Gentle sculpting along the Kia Forte's lower flanks taper the sheet metal inward, affording the car a taut, nimble appearance without diminishing its road presence. Around back, the up-kicked fender line and trunk design, with its deep horizontal crease, lend width and charisma while allowing the complex curves of the tail lights to flow over the rear haunches.

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Jeep Cherokee EU-Version, 2014

 

 Jeep Cherokee EU-Version, 2014

The Jeep Cherokee is the mid-size Sport Utility Vehicle of the Jeep brand. In its fourth generation, the Cherokee has evolved into a completely new vehicle delivering to customers a fresh interpretation of the "Go anywhere, do anything" attitude of the legendary American brand. The new Jeep Cherokee powered by the efficient 2.0-liter Multijet II turbo diesel engine in combination with the new nine-speed automatic transmission is making its début at the 2014 Geneva International Motor Show.

The new Jeep Cherokee raises the bar in its segment and features a new sleek and athletic design, enhanced on-road driving dynamics and handling, legendary Jeep 4x4 capability, premium interior craftsmanship, innovative technology, new levels of efficiency, entertainment and comfort and 'five-star' safety and security features that recently allowed the vehicle to earn the 'best in class' designation from Euro NCAP in the Small Off-road 4X4 category.

Engineered to excel on any and all terrains, the new Jeep Cherokee expresses the synthesis between stylistic innovation and family tradition, legendary 4x4 capability and technology: features that are fully embodied in the new Limited model and in its alter ego, the 'off-road' specialist Trailhawk.

The new generation Jeep Cherokee is now available in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations, offering a choice of three new and sophisticated Jeep four-wheel-drive systems in order to ensure benchmark off-road capabilities under all driving conditions. The new Jeep Cherokee is also the first mid-size SUV to feature rear-axle disconnect, resulting in reduced energy loss when 4x4 capability isn't needed and ensuring improved fuel efficiency. The rear-axle disconnect, seamlessly switches between two- and four-wheel drive for full-time torque management without requiring input from the driver.

The new Jeep Cherokee will be introduced in Jeep dealerships throughout Europe beginning the second quarter of 2014, in the Longitude, Limited and Trailhawk trim levels. The engine offer comprises the efficient 2.0-liter Multijet II turbo diesel delivering 170 horsepower. This engine will be matched with the new nine-speed automatic gearbox, which is used for the first time in the mid-size SUV segment. A 140 horsepower version of the 2.0-liter engine will also be available in combination with a six-speed manual transmission. The European lineup also includes the 3.2-liter V-6 Pentastar petrol engine paired to the new nine-speed automatic transmission. In Russia and the Middle East, a Sports trim level is available in the new Cherokee range and the new automatic gearbox is offered in combination with the 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir I-4.

The DESIGN
The new Jeep Cherokee boasts a cutting-edge, revolutionary design and features world-class craftsmanship and exclusive technological contents. Sleek and athletic exterior lines project the Jeep design into the future and convey efficiency and aerodynamics without compromising the brand's stylistic heritage.

Jeep designers were inspired to create a vehicle that remains true to the brand while moving it into the next era with a shape that is as efficient as the vehicle and ages gracefully without losing the DNA that makes it a Jeep. Fluid, sleek exterior lines highlight the efficient, wind-splitting upper body of the Cherokee. The rugged, protective lower body conveys the legendary capability that is characteristic of every Jeep.

The new Jeep Cherokee has a powerful stance, an aggressive wheel-to-body proportion and a commanding road presence. The approach and departure angles contribute to the best-in-class capability.

A key element in the front of the new Jeep Cherokee is the 'waterfall' hood with the iconic peaked, seven-slotted grille which includes a crisp, horizontal snap - a feature found in many classic Jeep vehicles. The hood is clearly defined and separated from the front fenders in a modern interpretation of the brand's design heritage. Advanced LED lighting technology is used throughout the new Jeep Cherokee. Daytime running lamps (DRL) and available Xenon headlights (standard on Limited in selected markets only), enhance the unique proportions of the front.

The sides feature the signature Jeep trapezoidal wheel arches. The rear is highlighted by the contemporary full LED tail lamps, which are an integral part of the rear backlight graphic, making the vehicle look stronger yet harmonious. This shape is the connection between the upper and lower rear as an interlocking graphic statement that brings a unique presence specific to this new Cherokee. The rear fascia also carries Jeep Cherokee-specific rear fog lamps and reflex.

The new Cherokee rides on 17-inch (Longitude and Trailhawk) or 18-inch tires (Limited) providing drivers with confident traction in snow and wet conditions.

Lastly, Jeep Cherokee offers customers the possibility to enjoy an open-air driving experience thanks to the new CommandView dual-pane power sunroof that is available as an option on all trim levels. CommandView extends from the windshield to the rear of the vehicle, allowing for perfect views both on- and off-road.

All-new, premium interior
The Jeep brand's recent Grand Cherokee introduction set the foundation for a new direction in interiors that the new Cherokee builds upon. The interior is modern, welcoming and comfortable. It features a sophisticated, refined design, hand-sculpted forms, signature Jeep styling cues, high-quality materials, precision craftsmanship and attention to detail. The cabin is designed to offer the driver ultimate comfort with useful, easy-to-operate technology and clever storage.

Also in the development of the Cherokee's all-new interior, Jeep designers took inspiration from the brand's heritage. The signature trapezoidal plan view feature line is classic Jeep, reminiscent of the trapezoidal wheel arches on the exterior. The center stack bezel is inspired by the outline of the front grille of the 1940s Willys Jeep and continues the design language of its larger sibling, the Grand Cherokee.

Premium materials abound wherever the customer touches the vehicle - the door uppers, the center armrest and the upper instrument panel. Throughout the cabin, customers will find interior trim that is soft to the touch and pleasing to the eye. A vinyl-wrapped, stitched instrument panel brow is standard on all models and the stitching carries over to the center console armrest and front door armrests.

The new Jeep Cherokee is available with three interior trim choices inspired from exotic locations and landscapes around the world, such as Morocco, Grand Canyon and the Italian Mount Vesuvio.

Seats are ergonomically designed to support the contour of the body, and are available with a 'memory' adjustable mechanism and heated/ventilated features for the front seats. They are trimmed with premium cloth (Longitude), quality Nappa leather (Limited and Trailhawk) or a combination of cloth and Nappa leather (Trailhawk).The 60/40 split second-row seats adjust fore and aft for increased passenger comfort and cargo flexibility.

Exclusive features such as the available heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel and wireless charging pad, complete the interior of the new Jeep Cherokee and will delight drivers and passengers alike.

Functionality is a main characteristic of the new Jeep Cherokee interior, where plenty of thoughtful, clever storage features can be found. A refined, covered, top bin is located above the center stack on top of the instrument panel for secured storage of small items. The front-passenger seat folds flat and offers hidden, in-seat storage by flipping up the passenger seat cushion.

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Jaguar F-Type V8 S, 2014

 

 

Jaguar F-Type V8 S, 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.

The 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.

The 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.

"This is the car that, as a team, we have always wanted to do. It was very much a team operation because we work very closely together and have a strong shared aesthetic. To begin with, I will let people express themselves as to what they think a Jaguar sports car should look like. Of course I will have a view in my head but I won't impose that on them. It's important because great things come out of it. It's an iterative process, it's about problem solving. Not just the functional and the practical but how to make that line work with that one or that form with another. The whole process is very intimate, very detailed and comes from the first sketches." Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar

Aluminium Structure
Jaguar, which has innovated the use of aluminum body structures, built the new Jaguar F-Type around its most advanced rigid and lightweight aluminum architecture to date. Jaguar engineers applied more than a decade's worth of aluminum construction experience to achieve the twin goals for the F-Type of low mass and an extremely rigid body.

Key to this was the further development of alloy technology. AC300, a 6000-series aluminum alloy, was specifically selected for parts of the Jaguar F-Type to meet these goals. The F-Type structure is riveted and bonded, and this manufacturing process emits up to 80-percent less CO2 compared to that from welding a comparable steel structure.

In addition to the structural alloy, Jaguar further developed an AC600 aluminum panel alloy in order to deliver the desired design language. This AC600 alloy offers robustness and quality of finish but with a great degree of formability. The effects can be seen in the clarity and tightness of radii and feature lines. It was the radius tightness of just 8mm that allowed the engineers to reproduce the car's "heartlines" exactly as the designers had intended.

Aluminum construction, including all-aluminum double wishbone front and rear suspensions, helps endow the F-Type with an ideal balance, which enhances the agility demanded of a pure sports car. The new structural alloys used in the F-Type construction results in high rigidity. Using detailed Computer Aided Engineering programs, Jaguar achieved lateral stiffness gains of up to 30 percent in key areas, such as the front suspension mounting points, compared to other Jaguar models. This rigidity provides a precision foundation for a finely tuned suspension system to deliver a superb driver connectivity and fidelity of response.

Significantly, the beautiful clamshell hood, an exotic signature feature of the Jaguar F-Type and where the front heartline begins, is a one-piece stamping, made using a 1,000-ton press. Jaguar developed other new manufacturing techniques in order to deliver both the design and structural integrity engineered into the F-Type. A new process, known as "warm forming", is used to produce the inner door stamping. The ordinary stamping process with cold metal could not achieve the desired shape. Jaguar engineers developed a method in which the metal is heated to 500°F (260°C) before pressing. As a result, the desired shape and structure are achieved from one large pressing rather than numerous smaller ones, reducing complexity and weight.

The F-Type employs more composite materials than in any previous Jaguar, with structures under the sill and the trunk lid constructed from high-strength polymers. Extensive analysis throughout the car's structure, powertrain, body and convertible roof contributed to the overall vehicle weight of about 3,521 pounds (1,597 kg). Concentrating as much of the mass as possible within the wheelbase by minimizing the front and rear overhangs also contributes to the car's agility and stability.

Aluminum forms a great part of the commitment Jaguar has made to sustainability. More than half the content of the car comes from recycled or reclaimed metal. In addition, Jaguar is rolling out its closed-loop recycling system to its suppliers, ensuring all waste metal from the manufacturing process is reused.

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