USA / Global
March 21, 2016
2016 Chevy Malibu Hybrid to offer class-leading fuel economy figures
Chevrolet has announced the 2016 Malibu Hybrid will have a class-leading EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 47 miles per gallon city / 46 mpg highway / 46 mpg combined. These numbers are slightly less than the company's original estimates - of 48 mpg city / 45 mpg highway / 47 mpg combined - but they still compare favorably to key competitors such as the Ford Fusion Hybrid (44 mpg city / 41 mpg highway / 42 mpg combined) and the Toyota Camry Hybrid (43 mpg city / 39 mpg highway / 41 mpg combined).
2019 NY Auto Show
Mercedes-AMG C63 Convertible spied ahead of NY debut
The Mercedes-AMG C63 Convertible has been spied undergoing some last minute testing on the Nürburgring. Set to be unveiled at the New York Auto Show on March 23rd, the convertible follows in the footsteps of the standard model but adopts an aggressive front fascia, revised side skirts, and a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system. The model has also been equipped with a sport-tuned suspension and lightweight alloy wheels that are backed up by a high-performance braking system.
Hyundai working on a new FCV, will be introduced next year
The Hyundai ix35 / Tucson Fuel Cell went into production nearly three years ago and the company has announced plans to introduce a successor sometime next year. In an interview with Autocar, Hyundai Motor UK Product PR Manager Robin Hayles confirmed the company is working on a new fuel cell vehicle. Hayles was coy on specifics but the magazine is reporting the model will be aimed at consumers and will likely be more affordable than the ix35 / Tucson Fuel Cell. The model is expected to be a crossover that is about the same size as the outgoing FCV. However, the new model is rumored to be significantly lighter than its predecessor.
Audi A5 Sportback coming to the United States
Audi of America President Scott Keogh has confirmed plans to offer the second-generation A5 Sportback in the United States. While Keogh declined to specifically mention the model, he told Automotive News the four-ringed brand will add a new body style to the A5 lineup in the United States. The executive went on to say "I feel confident that there will be another variant of the A5 that will be a real home run."
Manhart Mini F300 unveiled with 300 hp
Manhart Performance has taken the wraps off the new Mini F300. Based on the Mini Cooper JCW, the model has a British Racing Green exterior with gold decals and 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels with a gold finish. The hatchback has also been equipped with side stripes and plenty of "F300" badging. The exterior styling is a little brash but the cabin goes in a different direction as it features premium leather and Alcantara upholstery. The car also has an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, gold contrast stitching, and velour floor mats with embroidered "Manhart" logos.
Bell & Ross AeroGT concept unveiled
French watchmaker Bell & Ross has unveiled its new AeroGT concept. Developed by Bell & Ross creative director Bruno Belamich, the model is billed as a modern supercar that draws inspiration from aviation as well as the grand tourers of the 1950s. The company didn't have much to say about the car but noted its "sharp angles and cutting overhangs are reminiscent of some stealth airplanes."
2019 NY Auto Show
Hyundai Ioniq headed for New York with three eco-friendly powertrains
Hyundai has announced plans to stage the North American debut of the Ioniq at the New York Auto Show on March 23rd. Unveiled earlier this year in Geneva, the Ioniq is an eco-friendly hatchback which features a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric powertrain. U.S. specifications will be announced later this week but the Europe-spec Ioniq hybrid has a 1.6-liter GDI petrol engine, an electric motors, and 1.56 kilowatt hour lithium-ion-polymer battery pack. This setup enables the car to produce a combined maximum output of 141 horsepower.
