Weekly Motoring news Roundup April 16th

SEAT Arona

SEAT AronaAs we come to the end of another week  we look at some of the motoring news which you may have missed starting with the new revamped Seat Arona

 

The new SEAT Arona is ready to continue its success story for the brand, three years after its introduction in 2017.

Since then, the urban SUV has sold more than 350,000 vehicles globally and established itself as a key pillar of the brand’s range. With a revamped, rugged visual and a digital transformation within the cabin, the new Arona is set to remain a staple in the segment.

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The SEAT Arona’s exterior design is refreshed to deliver an even greater rugged and robust aesthetic.

From the front, the Arona’s distinct, three-dimensional look is enhanced by the new hot-stamped grille designs – while the front bumper in Reflex Silver and newly designed and positioned foglamps enhance the rugged character.

There’s a change to the trims available, now: SE, SE Technology, FR, FR Sport, Xperience and Xperience Lux (replacing Xcellence).

The SEAT Arona exterior lighting shifts to 100% LED technology as standard – Eco LEDs are standard on SE and SE Technology trims, upgradable to Full LEDs which are standard on FR models upwards. The new LEDs reinforce the front design cues while also offering better visibility with lower energy consumption.

The customer can choose between three new alloy wheel designs – one new 17” and two 18” options – that enhance the side profile.

The new Arona has an enriched palette of 10 exterior colours, including three new choices: Dark Camouflage, Asphalt Blue and Sapphire Blue, while there are three roof colours (Midnight Black, Magnetic Tech and the new Candy White) that give a distinct character to every car.

At the rear, the introduction of a new spoiler and diffuser add further differentiation and youthful look, while the model’s name in embossed handwritten lettering on the rear, together with the new SEAT logo in two-tone chrome finish, round off the distinct new look.

The interior design continues the model’s new character and enhances the spaciousness of the cabin, while giving a heightened sense of quality throughout.

Improved ergonomics are characterised by a completely new soft dashboard, which features a larger, floating central infotainment system – a generous 8.25” screen as standard, or 9.2” on SE Technology models upwards – that is placed in an elevated position comfortable for the driver’s line of sight.

Combined with a clear 10.25” Digital Cockpit (FR Sport and Xperience Lux models only), that is linked to a new ergonomic multifunction Nappa leather steering wheel, the interior of the new Arona is fully digital, practical and sleeker than ever.

The Arona’s lustrous character is enhanced further with the use of lighting technology to illuminate newly-designed air vents, with different colours available depending on the trim – Daring Red for FR trim and Aran Green for Xperience.

Rear seat passengers now benefit from roof-mounted interior lights.

The boot’s total capacity remains 400 litres and the load area offers more practicality than simply space. A double floor makes the rear even more versatile, while four metal hooks allow a net to be used to secure anything placed in the back.

Under the bonnet, the new Arona will offer four different petrol (TSI) powertrains with outputs ranging from 95PS to 150PS, linked to either manual or DSG dual-clutch transmissions.

All petrol engines are equipped with turbo, direct-injection technology, with three 1.0 EcoTSI options available and a larger 1.5 EcoTSI.

The 1.0 TSI 95PS unit, linked to a five-speed manual transmission, provides 175Nm of torque. The final three-cylinder unit delivers 110PS/200Nm and is linked to either a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission.

The largest option in the range is the four-cylinder 1.5 EcoTSI. With an output of 150PS/250Nm, it balances its strong performance with impressive efficiency.

Hyundai Motor to Unveil The All-New KONA N at ‘N Day’ Digital Event

Hyundai Motor Company will unveil the all-new KONA N at it’s first-ever Hyundai N Day, a digital showcase for its high-performance N Brand, on April 27, 2021.

Hyundai Motor to Unveil The All-New KONA N at ‘N Day’ Digital EventKONA N is not only the latest addition to Hyundai’s growing high-performance N line-up but is also the first N model with an SUV body type. With a powerful combination of versatility, spirited acceleration, agility and racetrack capability, KONA N stands to change what people expect from an SUV. The all-new KONA N will be presented by Albert Biermann, President and Head of R&D Division at Hyundai Motor Group.

The company will use N Day as a platform for sharing the N brand high-performance philosophy, introduce the new brand claim, share news about upcoming N models, and talk about its future e-performance direction. This part will be presented by Thomas Schemera, Executive Vice President and Head of Customer Experience Division.

“We are very excited to unveil the KONA N, a true hot SUV with all the driving fun N offers,” Till Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Brand Management & Motorsport Sub-Division at Hyundai Motor Company said. “With our first ever N Day, we aim to continue the story of N and share our vision with this digital format to further engage with our enthusiasts.”

 New ID.3 Pure Performance brings 45 kWh battery and lower entry price with City and Style specifications

The two new ID.3 specifications – City and Style – are also unveiled with the debut of this important new fourth powertrain option. The new Pure Performance variant majors on performance and value, offering a 150 PS and smaller range alternative to the punchier, and larger Pro, Pro Performance and Pro S powertrains, while still providing a muscular 310 Nm of torque. In Pure Performance guise, the ID.3 reaches 62 mph from a standstill in 8.9 seconds, and matches the 99 mph top speed of the rest of the ID.3 range.

ID.3Both specifications can regain up to 137 miles of range from a 100 kW rapid charger in 30 minutes, while a 7.2 kW home charger takes around seven and a half hours to take the ID.3 Pure Performance from 5% to 100%. Charging 5% to 80% from a DC, CCS charge point takes 31 minutes. On the WLTP combined cycle, the ID.3 City Pure Performance can return up to 217 miles from a single charge, while the Style Pure Performance can return as much as 215 miles.

Not only do these models introduce the Pure Performance powertrain, but the City specification also brings a new, even lower entry price for ID.3 ownership – the model now starts at £28,370* for the ID.3 City Pure Performance. As such the new models further deliver on the ID.3’s affordable and sustainable e-mobility brief set out by the I.D. concept of 2016. The ID.3 Style, meanwhile, provides an even more design-oriented option in the already stylish line-up, and is priced from £32,470*.

The highly competitive pricing also means that both of the new variants qualify for the Government’s Plug-in Vehicle Grant (PIVG), under the recently realigned £35,000 threshold for the scheme, doubling the number of ID.3s available under the PIVG to four. Among these are 58 kWh variants of the ID.3, which have the accolade of being among the longest-range electric vehicles on sale now eligible for the grant, with up to 263 miles available from the ID.3 Life Pro and Pro Performance.

The ID.3 City represents exceptional value, offering generous standard equipment as the entry point to the ID.3 range. Included as standard are a 10-inch Discover Pro Navigation infotainment system and a Comfort Package including heated front seats and a heated steering wheel; rain-sensing wipers and an auto-dimming rear mirror; two rear USB-C ports; and door mirrors with electric adjustment and folding, with integrated projection lights.

The model is also fitted with all-LED headlights and tail lights. The ID. Light interface, meanwhile, allows the ID.3 to communicate with the driver through different light patterns corresponding with functions including navigation instructions, phone commands and battery charge status. Further enhancing the ID.3’s interior with light is 10-colour ambient lighting, while natural voice control and Wireless App Connect bring additional convenience and connectivity.

A suite of driver assistance features is also standard-fit for the ID.3, with the City fitted as standard with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Front Assist as well as a Driver Alert system; Lane Assist; forward collision warning; and extended and proactive pedestrian protection, while front and rear parking sensors further aid the driver.

The ID.3 Style, priced from £32,470* is identifiable over the ID.3 City by its 18-inch ‘East Derry’ alloy wheels, while the fitment of the Design Package gives the model IQ.Light LED matrix headlights; animation for the LED taillights; 30-colour interior ambient lighting; tinted windows and an illuminated light band between the headlights and Volkswagen logo. The Comfort Package Plus provides 2-zone climate control and a variable boot floor, while a rear-view camera; ‘Kessy Advance’ keyless entry system; and illumination for the door handles are also included as standard, thanks to the addition of the Assistance Package for the ID.3 Style.

Polestar 2 model range expands to three variants

The Polestar 2 model range is expanding to three variants. With two powertrains, two battery packs and curated optional equipment packs, the electric performance fastback now starts at £39,900– making it accessible to a wider audience to further help accelerate the shift to more sustainable mobility.

“2021 is the year in which Polestar 2 will really gain momentum,” comments Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO. “We launched with a strong offer which has set a great tone for the car. Now, we expand the offering with additional versions – each maintaining its unique design, premium quality and fun driving experience.”

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Having launched in all Polestar’s global launch markets in the latter half of 2020, Polestar 2 has received high praise from customers and press alike, winning a number of awards across all regions. The latest award comes from Red Dot, where Polestar 2 has been named “Best of the Best” in the Product Design category for 2021.

Thomas Ingenlath continues: “What we have successfully managed with the new versions is to avoid stripping the lower-priced models of their character and premium feeling. Even the most affordable Polestar 2, with no optional equipment, has great visual consistency and high level of standard equipment.”

Polestar 2 continues its strong sustainability and progressive design narrative. Exterior and interior design is largely indistinguishable between variants, making all versions of Polestar 2 just as attractive and enjoyable – including 19-inch wheels, signature LED light designs front and rear, and Polestar’s signature frameless mirrors. Just like the WeaveTech vegan upholstery introduced in 2020, the new standard embossed textile upholstery is a vegan material and is available in two colour executions, matched to new 3D-etched décor panels. Other notable standard features include high performance audio with 8 speakers, front- and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

Connectivity and digital integration also continue as Polestar 2 hallmarks. The famed Android Automotive OS-powered infotainment system with its 11-inch centre display and 12.3-inch driver display is featured as standard on all models. Integrated into the new Polestar app with other vehicle functionality controls is the new Polestar Digital Key, which is also included as standard, as is Over-the-Air updatability which allows Polestar to release software updates to owners remotely on a regular basis. The new Polestar app and Polestar Digital Key begin rolling out to all Polestar 2 owners OTA from mid-April 2021.

Polestar 2 was awarded a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating in March 2021, thanks to innovative structural safety developments, eight airbags, and safety assistance features which include vehicle, pedestrian, cyclist and road edge detection support.

Three powertrains are now available. The existing 300 kW (408 hp) dual motor setup with a large 78 kWh battery pack, is joined by two front-mounted single motor variants – available either with the same long-range battery and a 170 kW motor, or a smaller, standard-range battery (64 kWh) and a 165 kW motor.

To further improve accessibility, optional equipment packs have been designed to add value without plaguing the ordering process with too many single options. The existing optional Performance Pack remains available for the Long range Dual motor variant only, and includes adjustable Öhlins dampers, Brembo brakes, forged 20-inch alloy wheels and signature ‘Swedish gold’ details inside and out.

The Plus and Pilot packs, which have previously been standard on the launch version, are now optional.

The Plus Pack includes high-level premium equipment like the full-length panoramic glass roof, premium Harman Kardon audio system with 13 speakers, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats and wipers, WeaveTech upholstery, Black Ash deco panels, fully-electric heated front seats with memory, and a new heat pump.

The heat pump reduces the need to use valuable battery capacity to prepare and sustain the cabin climate. It capitalises ambient heat, as well as residual thermal energy from the drivetrain, to reduce climatization load by as much as 50%. In colder climates and most effectively between 5-15 degrees Celsius, as much as 10% can be gained in range. Constant development also means that future improvements and more significant gains can be deployed via OTA updates.

The Pilot Pack includes enhanced safety and driver assistance features, such as the Pixel LED headlights with LED front fog lights, Driver Assistance with Adaptive Cruise Control and Pilot Assist, a 360-degree surround view camera, all-round parking sensors, and Driver Awareness including Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with steering support, Cross Traffic Alert with brake support, and Rear Collision Warning.

A handful of specific single options remain available, including ventilated Nappa leather upholstery (requires Plus Pack), metallic paint, 20-inch alloy wheels and a semi-electric folding tow bar.

Hyundai Announces First All New TUCSON N Line Prices and Specifications

Hyundai Motor UK has announced the pricing and specification of the All New TUCSON N Line T-GDi and 48V Mild Hybrid models, starting from just £31,110. TUCSON Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid N Line pricing and specification will be announced later this year.

Hyundai Announces First All New TUCSON N Line Prices and SpecificationsHyundai Announces First All New TUCSON N Line Prices and SpecificationsHyundai Announces First All New TUCSON N Line Prices and Specifications

 

 

The TUCSON N Line offers sporty and distinctive exterior design features and differentiating interior details so customers can enjoy a driving experience with even more attitude. The N Line range starts with the standard N Line 1.6 T-GDi 150ps six-speed manual-equipped model and – until Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models receive the N Line treatment – ends with the N Line S 1.6 T-GDi 180ps 4WD Mild Hybrid, with seven-speed dual-clutch transmission at £37,065

For this latest sporty take on the All New TUCSON, the parametric jewel patterns on the grille pieces have been elaborated with edges, creating additional reflections depending on the angle. The grille also incorporates the N Line badge. Under the grille sits a rectangular shaped bumper and a refined air intake, which is taller and bigger than on the standard TUCSON for a sportier look, while striking black bezels frame the head lamps. At the rear TUCSON N Line is outfitted with a longer aerodynamic spoiler, complete with stabilising fins, a diffusor and aggressive twin-tip muffler exhausts. Standard 19-inch alloy wheels, featuring a geometric pattern mirroring TUCSON’s grille, complete the look.

Customers can choose from seven exterior colours, with an optional two-tone roof in Phantom Black available on five of the colour trims.

In the cabin, TUCSON N Line features N-branded sporty seats with black suede and leather seat coverings, as well as red stitching. Red stitching is also woven on the door trim and armrest, while the grey cloth crash pad is garnished with red accents. A dedicated N steering wheel arrives complete with an N logo. Other N design elements are to be found on the leather gear shift knob or shift by wire console cover, depending on the chosen transmission. Meanwhile, a black headliner gives the interior an extra sporty touch. Further N Line enhancements include metal pedals, a foot rest and door steps.

Customers can choose between N Line (from £31,110) and N Line S (from £32,810) trim levels, with the former generously equipped with heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, parking sensors, Smart Key, wireless charging pad and ambient interior lighting. N Line S models additionally receive three-zone climate control, a tilt-and-slide electric panoramic roof, Smart electric tailgate, a heated steering wheel, KRELL Premium Audio with eight speakers and subwoofer and added SmartSense safety including Blind Spot Collision Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

This standard equipment is in addition to TUCSON’s technology across the range, including automatic rear view mirror, lights and wipers, 10.25″ touchscreen satellite navigation with Bluelink® connected car services and a 10.25″ driver’s supervision instrument cluster. The optional Tech Pack is available on N Line S models and includes electronically controlled suspension, blind spot view monitor & around view monitor,

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Cullinan Recreation Module

Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the world’s pre-eminent super-luxury SUV, promises the intrepid owner an unrivalled blend of comfort and capability surmised as ‘Effortless, Everywhere’. In addition to conveying its occupants to their destination in absolute serenity, off road or on road, Cullinan offers two unique Bespoke features to ensure that, on arrival, clients are equipped with everything required for their adventure.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Cullinan Recreation ModuleRolls-Royce Motor Cars Cullinan Recreation ModuleRolls-Royce Motor Cars Cullinan Recreation Module

 

 

The first is the Recreation Module, a motorised drawer cassette designed to fit securely and invisibly into the luggage compartment floor of Cullinan. At the touch of a button, the Recreation Module slides open to reveal equipment, accessories and paraphernalia personally selected by the motor car’s commissioning client, each item ensconced in its own individually tailored container. The Recreation Module can be trimmed to match or contrast with the car’s interior and exterior colourway according to the commissioning client’s preference.

Maserati and David Beckham

A century of mixing innovation, design and passion has driven Maserati to create iconic vehicles, which have changed the way the world thinks about motoring – forever. Today this uniquely Italian recipe, kicks up into a new, higher gear with the arrival of a new brand global ambassador, David Beckham.

Maserati and David BeckhamGlobal sporting icon, philanthropist, businessman and style trailblazer: David Beckham is the perfect partner to accompany Maserati on the next leg of its journey, breaking boundaries and driving the brand forward to the forefront of luxury motoring in the 21st century.

Paolo Tubito, Maserati Chief Marketing Officer, commented: “The Brand is moving forward, inaugurated a new Era. Maserati is driven to challenge the status quo being innovative by nature, powered by passion, and unique by design. The partnership with David is the embodiment of all these values.”

David Beckham said: “It’s an exciting time for me to begin this partnership with Maserati; an iconic Italian brand which shares my appreciation for the very best innovation and design. I’m looking forward to working closely with the brand at such a pivotal time in their history and continuing their growth on a global scale.”

The first act bringing together Maserati and David Beckham’s values is an inspiring film showcasing the innovative spirit which sees David performing an audacious act of driving in a Maserati, just for the sheer joy of doing the unexpected. The movie sees the Maserati Ambassador driving the brand’s ultimate performance SUV – the Levante Trofeo.

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