William Maley

There has been a bit of overlap for the Hyundai Sonata lineup as there is a new Sonata along with the last-generation Sonata Hybrid. Not anymore. The next-generation Sonata Hybrid made its debut in Korea today. The Korean-market Sonata Hybrid uses a updated parallel hybrid powertrain setup which boasts a direct-injection 2.0L four-cylinder and a 38-kilowatt electric motor. This is paired up to a six-speed automatic transmission. Hyundai says the new powertrain produces more overall power than the outgoing Sonata Hybrid's powertrain. Also seeing a change is the lithium-polymer battery pack which boasts an additional 13 percent in capacity. To make the Sonata Hybrid standout from the standard Sonata, Hyundai's designers put on a new front fascia to help improve aerodynamics. Now we'll be seeing the North American version of the Sonata Hybrid next month at the Detroit Auto Show. Details about the powertrain and other key items will likely be revealed there. Source: Hyundai Press Release is on Page 2 Hyundai Motor Launches All-New Sonata Hybrid Hyundai Motor expands Blue Drive™ strategy with new hybrid model The all-new Sonata Hybrid features unique, aerodynamic styling Innovative 2.0-liter GDI hybrid engine and six-speed automatic transmission deliver class-leading fuel economy of 18.2 km/ℓ Hyundai Motor to launch its first Plug-in Hybrid in 2015, expand its eco-friendly line-up in all segments by 2020 December 16, 2014 - Hyundai Motor Company, South Korea’s largest automaker, today unveiled its all-new Sonata Hybrid in Seoul, Korea. The all-new Sonata Hybrid features a unique hybrid design, advanced safety and convenience features, a spacious interior and trunk, and an upgraded powertrain that delivers class-leading fuel economy of 18.2 km/ℓ. The launch event, held at the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas hotel, was attended by around 250 media members and company executives including Jin Kwak, Hyundai Motor’s Executive Vice President, responsible for sales in the domestic market. “The launch of our all-new Sonata Hybrid, with its class-leading fuel economy and powerful driving performance, comes at a time when eco-friendly vehicles are becoming established as a mainstream car,” Mr. Kwak said during his welcome speech today. “Our latest offering, based on one of our best-selling models, underscores our efforts to meet the growing popularity of eco-friendly vehicles around the world.” The all-new Sonata Hybrid, the result of 27 months of development and an investment of approximately 180 billion Won (KRW), is scheduled to launch in major markets outside Korea, starting in the first half of 2015. Hyundai Motor targets to sell a total of 55,000 units (Korea: 18,000 / Overseas: 37,000) next year. In line with Hyundai Motor Group’s target to become a global top 2 automaker in the eco-friendly car market by 2020, Hyundai Motor will expand its eco-friendly line-up in all segments by this time, all launched under the Blue Drive™ sub brand. As part of this initiative, the all-new Sonata Hybrid will be joined next year by a Plug-in Hybrid variant of the Sonata, which will be Hyundai Motor’s first Plug-in Hybrid. The company also plans to introduce its first dedicated Hybrid model in the second half next year. With the addition of the Plug-in Hybrid version, Hyundai Motor will offer a complete range of eco-friendly models, further boosting the model’s popularity. While the all-new Sonata Hybrid will make its North American debut at the 2015 North American International Auto Show, detailed information of the Plug-in Hybrid version will be also released at the show in Detroit, U.S. Upgraded Hybrid Power System The all-new Sonata Hybrid is powered by an efficient Nu 2.0-liter GDI hybrid engine mated to a 38 kW electric motor. The gasoline engine delivers maximum power and torque of 156 ps and 19.3 kg.m, up 4 percent and 5.5 percent respectively, compared to the previous model. The 38 kW electric motor also delivers 8.6 percent improved maximum power, with maximum torque of 20.9 kg.m (205 Nm). With the upgraded engine and electric motor, the new model achieves a significant improvement in fuel consumption: a class-leading combined rating of 18.2 km/ℓwith 16-inch wheels (17.7 km/ℓ with 17-inch wheels). This engine transfers power to the road via Hyundai Motor’s innovative six-speed automatic transmission. The new unit – launched in October 2014 at the company’s annual International Powertrain Conference – houses almost all of the hybrid powertrain components within the transmission, minimizing energy losses and maximizing fuel economy. The transmission is fitted with a highly-efficient traction motor, while the torque converter has been removed. A lighter torsion damper, and new engine clutch, which features fewer clutch discs, reduce drag and contribute to a more efficient transfer and use of power. The most significant change to the new transmission to improve fuel efficiency is within the oil pump system. By removing the mechanical oil pump, which causes hydraulic losses, and replacing it with a new electric oil pump, the transmission automatically optimizes operation according to the driving conditions. The all-new Sonata Hybrid continues to utilize a lithium-polymer battery pack - which in 2011 made Hyundai Motor first automaker in the world to incorporate such efficient battery technology into production cars - now with a 13.3 percent higher capacity of 1.62 kilowatt-hour (versus 1.43 kWh). The battery has been relocated under the floor of the trunk, allowing for a flat trunk floor, creating a more useable cargo area, 10.5% larger than that of the previous model, with 60/40 split-folding seats. As implemented in the first Sonata Hybrid, the new model is based on a full parallel hybrid architecture. The advantages of a full parallel system allow Sonata Hybrid to generate electricity captured during low engine loads and regenerative braking system to power the electric motor. When the vehicle comes to a stop and the electrical load is low, the engine will shut down to eliminate idle fuel consumption and emissions. Unique Hybrid Design Compared to other mid-sized hybrid variants, the all-new Sonata Hybrid features a number of unique exterior design characteristics that distinguish it from non-hybrid Sonata models. As well as creating a unique design, these changes have a functional outcome, an exceptionally low drag coefficient of 0.24 Cd* for the all-new Sonata Hybrid, aiding fuel efficiency and stability (* Hyundai Motor’s own estimates). At the front, the larger, more sharply-edged hexagonal grille has a unique inner-grille pattern. The hexagonal grille, a hallmark of Hyundai Motor design, aids cooling and aerodynamic efficiency, while the new, slimline LED daytime running lights and HID headlamps echo the high-technology image. A distinctive chrome molding at the bottom of the doors helps to accentuate the Hybrid model’s sleek shape. At the rear, the revised, voluminous rear fenders flow into new, high-visibility LED rear lamp clusters. The design upgrades are completed with a unique, low-drag rear diffuser. New, streamlined 16-inch and 17-inch alloy wheels, together with a full underbody cover contribute to reduced airflow resistance. Compared to the previous-generation Sonata Hybrid, the all-new Sonata Hybrid is longer (+35 mm) and wider (+30 mm), with a longer wheelbase (+10 mm), allowing more interior space for occupants. The belt line that runs the length of the car has been lowered, with a more sharply raked A-pillar to emphasize the generous proportions. Like its base model, the all-new Sonata Hybrid benefits from improved interior ergonomics, resulting in a completely driver-focused cabin, intuitive interfaces and premium soft-touch materials to ensure a pleasurable journey. Safety & Convenience Features The all-new Sonata Hybrid also benefits from new, advanced safety systems including Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Detection and Lane Change Assist. In addition to the full suite of passive safety technologies, the car also incorporates a new knee bag to prevent injury in the event of a collision. Access to the cabin is keyless thanks to a Smart Key, while the trunk can be entered ‘hands-free’ thanks to the Smart Trunk function. In addition, systems have been fitted to optimize driver comfort, including a powered and ventilated seat that has a four-way lumbar support, as well as Heated Steering Wheel and Smart Cruise Control for enhanced driving comfort on longer journeys. View full article

For awhile, the best Buick you could buy was a Lexus ES. Lexus was able to take the formula that Buick had worked so hard on proving a smooth and comfortable car and just do it better. But Buick is back on the upswing. The recently refreshed LaCrosse shows that Buick is back and wanting to challenge the ES on territory it once held. So which is the better model; the LaCrosse or the ES? I spent some time in the 2014 ES 350 to try answer this. The ES 350’s exterior looks awkward as it seems Lexus was trying to make the ES look somewhat sportier, while retaining some of the handsomeness of previous models. The front has the spindle grille with flat bars running across and a set of headlights with LEDs running along the outer edges. Around back, Lexus designers gave it upright and flat look with a new trunk lid. While the ES now has some style, it comes at the cost of looking like a bloated GS. Thankfully the interior avoids the awkwardness. Again, there is a bit of GS influence for the ES’ interior, but Lexus made sure to make ES a bit more inviting. That means cream leather for the seats and bamboo trim along the dash and door panels. The dashboard itself is similar to the GS with a flat face and simple layout of controls. Space-wise, the ES 350 is very impressive. Back seat passengers will find plenty of legroom and headroom. Trunk space measures out to 15.2 cubic feet, slightly larger than the Buick LaCrosse’s 13.3 cubic feet trunk. Lexus’ Enform infotainment system came equipped on my tester which features a new interface which makes it easier to navigate around. However, the remote touch controller is still makes controlling the system tough since you have to move it and press down on it carefully on the function you want. One wrong move and you’ll end up in a function that you didn’t want. Power comes from a 3.5L V6 with 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. This is paired up to a six-speed automatic. The 3.5L V6 is a perfect match for the ES as it provides smooth acceleration throughout and NVH levels that rival Buick’s LaCrosse. The six-speed automatic provided silky smooth shifts and didn’t show any signs of confusion. Fuel economy is rated at 21 City/31 Highway/24 Combined. My average landed around 23 MPG. On the ride and handling front, the ES 350 provides a seemingly smooth ride. The suspension makes sure potholes and road imperfections are smoothed out and don’t make their way into the cabin. One downside is the amount of road noise that come into the cabin. I put the blame on the Bridgestone tires that the ES came equipped with. Out on the curves, the ES 350 does show some sign of body roll if you push it. Keep in mind the ES 350 is meant to be a cruiser, not a curve bruiser. After a week with the Lexus ES 350, I think it does certain things better than the LaCrosse and vice versa. The ES 350 has a much more potent engine, better NVH levels in the engine, and a larger trunk than the LaCrosse. However, the LaCrosse is a bit more quieter, features a better infotainment control system, and looks much nicer than the ES 350. So which is better car? While the Lexus ES 350 is a nice improvement over previous models, the Buick LaCrosse is the better car. Disclaimer: Lexus Provided the ES 350, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2014 Make: Lexus Model: ES Trim: 350 Engine: 3.5L DOHC 24-valve VVT-i V6 Driveline: Six-Speed Automatic, Front-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 268 @ 6,200 Torque @ RPM: 248 @ 4,700 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 21/31/24 Curb Weight: 3,549 lbs Location of Manufacture: Miyawaka, Fukuoka, Japan Base Price: $36,470 As Tested Price: $43,105 (Includes $910.00 Destination Charge) Options: Hard Disk Drive Navigation with Lexus Inform: $2,625 Luxury Package: $1,370 High Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlights: $565.00 Intuitive Parking Assist: $500.00 Bamboo & Leather Trimmed Shift Knob and Heated Wood & Leather Trimmed Steering Wheel: $300.00 Power Rear Sunshade: $210.00 Rain Sensing Wipers with Deicer: $155.00 View full article

No. Volvo will be keeping the dealers around. That's where owners will pick up their vehicles if they decide to order online.

The current Chevrolet Corvette Stingray's design cues will used on upcoming Chevrolet models. Automotive News had the chance to speak with GM's vice president of global design, Ed Welburn who said designers are hard at work trying to infuse the Corvette Stingray's DNA into newer Chevrolet models. "As Malibu and Cruze and Volt come to market, you'll be able to see a subtle link between some of the form vocabulary for all of them and Corvette," said Welburn. "I always look at the hood of the Corvette and the sectioning, the way it's taut, very lean, very sporty. That will be a part of really everything we do for Chevrolet." The hope with adding some of the Corvette's design cues is that will help make Chevrolet's designs more competitive. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article