William Maley

The Jaguar F-Pace has proven to be quite the success, selling 9,559 units through June and sitting on top of the company's sales charts. Jaguar hopes they can strike gold once again with the 2018 E-Pace that made its debut today. Compared to the F-Pace, the E-Pace is about foot shorter in overall length. Many design cues from the F-Pace are here such as a tall beltline, sculpted rear fenders, an F-Type-inspired rear tailgate, and slim taillights. The interior looks to be directly lifted from F-Type with a similar center stack layout - including the grab handle on the passenger side. All models get a 10-inch touchscreen with the latest version of Jaguar Land Rover's InTouch Pro infotainment system and two USB ports - optional is each seat getting a USB port. The U.S. will get a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four in two states of tune; 246 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque or 296 and 295 if you opt for the R-Dynamic. Power flows through a nine-speed automatic to all four wheels. 0-60 takes 6.6 seconds with the standard 2.0L and 5.9 seconds with the R-Dynamic. Interestingly, the E-Pace isn't based on the platform that underpins the F-Pace. Instead, it uses the same platform that you'll find under the Range Rover Evoque. Jaguar has made some changes to it to make it feel more Jaguar-y with a multi-link suspension setup for the front and rear, stiffer bushings, and a set of anti-roll bars. An optional Configurable Dynamics package will bring adaptive dampers to tune the ride to your liking. The E-Pace arrives in the U.S. early next year with a base price of $39,595 with destination. Source: Jaguar NEW JAGUAR E-PACE ROLLS INTO THE RECORD BOOKS – All new Jaguar E-PACE revealed with epic barrel roll – Dynamic twist sets an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the Furthest Barrel Roll in a Production Vehicle5 – Final test proves E-PACE lives up to the Jaguar ‘Art of Performance’ philosophy – Inspiration from one of cinema’s most iconic car stunts – Attitude and stance come as standard with Jaguar’s new compact performance SUV – Sports car looks with SUV practicality for the next generation of Jaguar customers – Agile, responsive chassis and sports car driveline technology make E-PACE the hot hatch of its segment – Next-generation digital tech keeps you connected, with available 4G Wi-Fi, and a 10-inch touchscreen as standard – Standard all-wheel drive keeps you connected to the road in adverse conditions – Priced from $38,600, customers can order and configure their Jaguar E-PACE at www.jaguarusa.com (LONDON, U.K.) – July 13, 2017 - The new Jaguar E-PACE has set an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORD™ title during its world premiere. The compact performance SUV leapt into the record books with a 50 foot-long jump, complete with a 270-degree corkscrew-like ‘barrel roll’. Demonstrating the agility, precision and performance of the newest Jaguar SUV, the feat was the final test for E-PACE after 25 grueling months of work across four continents to test extreme durability and that it lived up to the Jaguar ‘Art of Performance’ philosophy. The Jaguar E-PACE is a five-seat, compact SUV that packs the design and performance of a Jaguar sports car into a practical and connected all-wheel drive vehicle. Trademark Jaguar driving dynamics and design put the brand’s sports car DNA in a practical design, packed with advanced technologies to keep you connected. The E-PACE is the newest member of the Jaguar SUV family, joining the all electric I-PACE Concept and the 2017 World Car of the Year winner, the Jaguar F-PACE, which was launched in 2015 with a spectacular GUINNESS WORLD RECORD™ setting loop-the-loop. The E-PACE exterior design is inspired by the Jaguar F-TYPE sports car and characterized by the distinctive Jaguar grill, muscular proportions, short overhangs and powerful haunches that give the vehicle a bold and purposeful stance, instantly communicating its dynamic agility. Jaguar sports car DNA is also evident in the fast sweep of the roofline and the distinctive side window design. Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar, said, “Established Jaguar design principles ensure the E-PACE is immediately recognizable as the sports car of its class. Our new compact SUV combines the interior space, connectivity and security that families expect with the kind of proportions, purity of design and performance not usually associated with such a practical vehicle.” The E-PACE completed its world record jump at ExCeL in London – one of only a handful of venues in the UK big enough to accommodate the 525-foot run-up and run-off, vital for the 50-foot leap. Behind the wheel was stunt driver Terry Grant, who has completed stunts on many film sets and holds an impressive 21 GUINNESS WORLD RECORD™ titles. Grant said, “As far as I am aware, no production car has ever cleanly completed a bona-fide barrel roll and therefore it has always been an ambition of mine to perform one ever since I was a boy. After driving the Jaguar F-PACE in the record-breaking loop-the-loop, it has been amazing to help launch the next chapter of the PACE family in an even more dramatic dynamic feat.” Unsurprisingly, the barrel roll is not one to be tried at home. Months of testing and analysis were completed to fine-tune the stunt, including achieving precisely the correct speed of run-up. The ramps were modeled extensively using CAD before any jumps took place. Terry experienced a G-Force of 5.5 during the 270 degree twist, and required a 525-foot run up to hit the air at the correct speed. Guinness World Record™ adjudicator Pravin Patel said, “This amazing feat really was a sight to behold. While I’ve seen the barrel roll stunt in film, witnessing this incredible feat in real life was something pretty special. Congratulations to Terry and Jaguar for setting another epic Guinness World Record ™ title.” The reveal of the E-PACE was followed by a spectacular musical performance by Pete Tong & The Heritage Orchestra who presented the now legendary Ibiza Classics. As a celebration of the new Jaguar E-PACE, Pete collaborated with singer-songwriter Raye to perform “You Don’t Know Me” by Jax Jones - a hit that features Raye and has over 230 million plays on Spotify and over 130 million YouTube views. Tong said, "I've been working with the Heritage Orchestra for the past couple of years but this is the first time I've been involved in something like this, it's very exciting and I'm glad to be a part of it! Jaguar breaking the Guinness World Record for the barrel roll was mind-blowing. This creative approach to revealing the new Jaguar E-PACE was the inspiration behind the collaboration between myself and Raye and we are now planning to put the track on my new album." The Jaguar E-PACE: Connected, Intelligent, Agile, Responsive The Jaguar E-PACE is connected and intelligent. A 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system comes as standard and connects customers to their favorite apps, including Spotify. The standard InControl Remote & Protect system automatically alerts emergency services in case of an accident and allows you to check fuel levels and mileage remotely via a smartphone or smartwatch. Customers can also warm up the vehicle or cool it down via their smartphone as part of this system. Digital connectivity can be found throughout the cabin, ready for every need of the modern family. There are up to four 12-volt charging points and five USB connections as well as an optional 4G Wi-Fi hotspot for up to eight devices. The compact SUV can seat five in comfort with generous rear legroom, while the large luggage space is made possible by the vehicle’s sophisticated Integral Link rear suspension architecture. The optional Configurable Dynamics system gives the driver even more control with individual settings for the throttle, automatic transmission, steering, and, where fitted, the Adaptive Dynamics suspension system3. The optional Adaptive Dynamics system is designed to sense driver input, body and wheel movements and pre-emptively loads the suspension and chassis and adjusts the damping for improved roll control and agility. The E-PACE is available with the choice of two 2.0-liter turbocharged Ingenium gasoline engines. The flagship 296HP Ingenium engine powers the sporting SUV from 0-60mph in just 5.9 seconds (6.4 seconds for the 0-100km/h sprint) before reaching an electronically-limited top speed of 152mph (243km/h). The Active Driveline all-wheel-drive system in R-Dynamic models is a technological first for Jaguar. The intelligent set-up combines all-wheel drive traction with Jaguar’s unmistakable rear-wheel-drive feel. The system’s torque-biasing capability delivers added stability and dynamics in varying conditions and weather. The E-PACE features the very latest driver assistance technologies as standard equipment. A stereo camera underpins the advanced Autonomous Emergency Braking system, which supports Lane Keep Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition, as well as the Intelligent Speed Limiter and Driver Condition Monitor systems. Front and rear parking aids are also standard. The camera also combines with the electric power assisted steering system and rear radars to deliver a Blind Spot Assist function, to help reduce the risk of sideswipe collisions on multi-lane roads. A new Forward Traffic Detection system also warns drivers of approaching vehicles at junctions where visibility is restricted. The E-PACE is the first Jaguar vehicle to feature the company’s next-generation Head-Up Display technology. The advanced display can project up to 66 percent more information onto the windshield using large, full-color graphics with enhanced clarity. Essential information including vehicle speed and navigation directions are in full view at all times, with alerts and updates for the infotainment and convenience features all projected in the driver’s eyeline. An optional 12.3-inch full color digital instrument panel and choice of two premium audio systems developed with Meridian™ put the E-PACE on a par with its class when it comes to interior technology. The E-PACE is also available with Jaguar’s innovative wearable Activity Key. The waterproof and shockproof wristband has an integrated transponder, allowing the driver to lock the main key inside the vehicle when enjoying outdoor pursuits such as running or cycling. Whenever the Activity Key is activated, by holding the wristband up to the upper edge of the license plate surround on the tailgate, any conventional key fobs left inside the vehicle are disabled. Jaguar Land Rover has confirmed that the newest member of its Jaguar PACE family, the E-PACE, will be manufactured in Europe and Asia to satisfy expected customer demand for the compact SUV. From late 2017, the Jaguar E-PACE will be the first vehicle to be produced as part of Jaguar Land Rover’s contract manufacturing agreement with Magna Steyr, an operating unit of Magna Inc, in Austria. It will be joined by the all-electric Jaguar I-PACE from 2018. The Jaguar E-PACE will be also be manufactured at Chery Jaguar Land Rover’s state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Changshu exclusively for Chinese customers. View full article

After teasing us for a bit, Hyundai has finally pulled the curtains back on the first model from the new high-performance N division - the 2018 i30 N. It certainly looks the part with new bumpers, side skirts, rear spoiler, and the choice of 18 or 19-inch wheels. The i30 N's interior comes with new sport seats with blue stitching, a new steering wheel with blue buttons for the different driving modes, and aluminum pedals. Under the i30 N's hood is a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four with 246 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. An optional Performance Pack boosts horsepower to 271. Power is routed to the front wheels through a six-speed manual. 0-60 mph is said to 6.4 seconds or 6.1 seconds when the Performance Pack is equipped. Top speed for either model stands at 155 mph. Under the skin, Hyundai has added an adaptive suspension to change ride and handling characteristics to suit your mood along with new brakes. An electronic limited-slip differential, larger brakes, Pirelli P-Zero tires, and a variable exhaust system come with the Performance Pack. Hyundai will be launching the i30 N in Europe towards the end of the year. The U.S. will miss out on this model, but we'll get our first taste N with the next-generation Veloster. Source: Hyundai Press Release is on Page 2 Exhilarating driving pleasure for everyone – The Hyundai i30 N The i30 N marks a new era for Hyundai Motor – introducing the first high-performance model under the N line up, built to deliver exhilarating driving pleasure for everyone N was born in Namyang and honed at the Nürburgring. The ‘N’ symbolises a chicane, the essence of Hyundai Motor’s high-performance car development High power: the four-cylinder 2.0-litre T-GDI turbo engine delivers up to 275 PS and 353 Nm torque with high responsiveness and linear power output High-performance features: Electronic Limited Slip Differential, Electronic Controlled Suspension, Rev Matching, Launch Control, high-performance tyres, lap timer, and more High level of customisation: five different drive modes, including the N and N Custom modes, offer variety of different configurations from comfort-oriented daily commuting to race track performance Emotional sound thanks to a variable exhaust valve system True performance design: aggressive front and rear bumpers with larger air intakes and red character line, aerodynamic rear spoiler with triangular brake light, dual muffler exhaust, 18- and 19-inch wheels, sport seats, Performance Blue exterior colour inspired by Hyundai Motorsport 13 July 2017 - The i30 N is Hyundai Motor’s first high-performance car under the N line up. Built on the New Generation i30, the i30 N has been developed from the ground up to deliver maximum driving pleasure in everyday life on the road, as well as on the track. N was born in Namyang, at Hyundai Motor’s global R&D Centre in Korea, and honed at the Nürburgring, one of the most challenging race tracks in the world and home of Hyundai’s Testing Center. The N logo symbolises a chicane, the ultimate corner where the i30 N has been tested thoroughly and has proven its ability. The i30 N is inspired by Hyundai Motorsport’s experience in WRC since 2014. The Hyundai i30 N has been developed for no other purpose than to deliver maximum driving fun to our customers in an accessible high-performance package. With the high-performance N models we will enhance our brand’s appeal with emotional products that cater to the needs of people who love to have a smile on their face when they drive their car on a winding road and listen to the sound of the engine. That’s why we measure high-performance in BPM, heart beats per minute instead of only RPM. Albert Biermann Executive Vice President Performance Development andHigh Performance Vehicle Division The i30 N is Hyundai Motor’s answer to emerging customer preferences towards uncompromising innovation and technology-driven performance. Due to be launched across Europe by the end of 2017, the All-New i30 N is made for people to experience a contented grin when driving a performance car. Part of the i30 range, the i30 N sports a unique character and coherent, timeless design – including the Cascading Grille at the front, the new Hyundai signature, which is characterised by a downward tapering gesture inspired by the flow of molten steel. Focused on Fun to Drive The i30 N has been developed on the basis of three corner stones under the theme ‘Fun to Drive’: Corner Rascal, Everyday Sports Car and Race Track Capability. The i30 N has been developed to make the driver’s heart beat faster when he or she gets behind the wheel. Instead of focusing on pure numbers, Hyundai Motor has chosen to emphasise driving pleasure and the emotional impact on the driver’s heartbeats per minute (BPM), rather than simply measuring revs per minute (RPM). When the driver hits the throttle and shifts through the gears, the Rev matching function supports smooth gear shifting, while the overboost function increases torque (+8%) and acceleration (+6-7%). The feeling is enhanced by the car’s emotional sound from the dual muffler exhaust featuring the variable exhaust valve system. The cockpit of the i30 N shows key performance parameters through the new instrument cluster and the 8-inch free-floating screen’s modes such as the G-Force meter for live tracking of the performance. The design is based on true high-performance vehicles and includes Hyundai’s Cascading Grille at the front, aggressive-looking front and rear bumpers, and a new rear spoiler. According to the principle “form follows function”, the car design enhances aerodynamic and cooling performance. Its operation focuses on the pure connection between the car and the driver. The i30 N is built around the driver for maximum responsiveness, balanced performance and fun to drive. Corner Rascal The i30 N loves corners. The N logo symbolises a chicane, the ultimate part of the track where the i30 N achieves maximum traction, precision and feeling. The powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivers up to 275 PS and 353 Nm torque. It offers direct response with a linear power development through the early responding turbo charger. It features front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission. The i30 N’s maximum grip is guaranteed by the 18-inch Michelin or 19-inch Pirelli high-performance Hyundai N tyres. The rack-mounted motor-driven power steering is very direct and offers high precision. The lowered body is rigid and in combination with the Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) reduces roll and enhances cornering speed, enabling the driver to adjust the dampers from comfort-oriented daily commuting to high-performance track-driving. The i30 N is aerodynamically designed to reduce lift to keep the body firmly on to the road when maximum traction is required. The Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) enhances grip and delivers maximum power to the road. For the real enthusiasts the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can be switched off completely for maximum freedom. In order to give the driver and passenger the maximum comfort, the exclusively developed N sport seats offer maximum stability and lateral support in all driving situations. Everyday Sports Car The i30 N is an everyday sports car, suitable for daily commuting in comfort on weekdays or for race track performance on the weekend. By offering a great variety of customisation options, the i30 N is a well-balanced hatchback, offering performance and practicality to create the best feeling for the driver. There are five drive modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, N and N Custom settings, which can be selected by using two dedicated buttons on the steering wheel. The different modes change the character of the car, adjusting the high-performance parameters of the engine, the dampers, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD), sound, steering and Rev matching. Additionally, the driver can select the Rev matching button on the steering wheel to increase the revs on the engine when shifting from a higher to a lower gear, while the car’s Launch Control helps to launch the car as easy as possible by controlling engine torque. Race Track Capability In the development of the vehicle, durability and racetrack performance were key elements. The i30 N has undergone 10,000 km of driving on the Nordschleife at the Nürburgring circuit for durability testing. The car has also taken part twice in the world’s toughest endurance test, the ADAC 24-hours race on the Nürburgring. The engine and its components have been tested for total vehicle evaluation in 2016 and for ensuring its overall race track capability in 2017. Thus, when taking the i30 N to a track day, the driver can be sure that the car’s performance will endure. Its brakes have been developed to last with an extra cooling function through the air intakes on the front bumper. The Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) allows the driver to adjust the i30 N to best suit a race track’s requirements. The body’s high rigidity is increased by the rear stiffness bar behind the rear seats. The car features a strong clutch that is built to last, while the precise six-speed manual transmission has short travel to enhance fast shifting. The i30 N will be produced at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech in Nošovice (HMMC). The facility opened in 2008 and started production of the first generation i30 the same year. It has an annual production capacity of 350,000 cars and fulfils the highest quality standards to meet European customers’ expectations. The HMMC facility also features a 3.3 km open test track on the factory grounds, ensuring that every vehicle is tested for dynamic properties, noise and functions, along with a full underbody check for fluid leakage and correct assembly. Each component used in the i30 N makes Hyundai Motor’s first high-performance vehicle more agile and dynamic. This is what the Hyundai N line up stands for: The N-badged Hyundai focuses on taking the vehicle beyond its role of being just a means of transportation. It offers the customer the thrill and excitement of driving a high-performance car and becoming one with the car as it moves through corners at speed. It sports unique high-performance design elements such as aggressive-looking front and rear bumpers and a new rear spoiler, paired with the coherent, timeless design of the i30 range. According to the principle “form follows function”, designers worked closely with aerodynamic specialists to define the right ratio between the car’s downforce, drag and aerodynamics to create the best possible driving experience. The resulting lowered body together with the newly designed aerodynamics give the car its sporty silhouette and strong stance, while enhancing road balance and race track capabilities. Exterior Design The i30 N features an increased wheel arch with 18-inch wheels or unique 19-inch wheels, carrying the N logo. Compared to the five-door version, the i30 N is 4 mm lower with 18-inch wheels and 8 mm lower with 19-inch wheels. The N signature can also be found on the striking red brake callipers as well as on the Cascading Grille at the front. It denotes clearly where the model originates and increases the sense of high performance. At the front, the i30 N also maintains its sporty, aggressive appearance through the black bezel of the headlamps. At the rear, the triangular third brake light in the new glossy black spoiler and the double muffler exhaust underline the eye-catching look of the sports hatchback. As the front bumper features the prominent Cascading Grille, particularly stressed through the red insert, the emotional appearance and strong character of the car are once again highlighted. Fresh-air inlets on both sides of the car’s front bumpers enhance the brake cooling and aerodynamics with the horizontal LED daytime running lights positioned on top. Behind the Cascading Grille, additional air curtains offer further performance by enhancing air flow, reducing turbulence in the wheel housing and cooling the engine more effectively. The front splitter and the rear wing spoiler create downforce and an excellent aero-balance. Interior Design The interior is focused on connecting the driver with the car at all touch points. The concept is dedicated to the people who truly love cars. The exclusive “N” steering wheel ensures that the driver is in 100% control of all driving performance features directly by hand. On the left side of the steering wheel, drivers can select three standard drive modes: Normal, Sport and Eco. On the right, the driver has direct access to the chequered flag N button for the N-mode, or the customised setting which is visible on the navigation screen. For better engine control driving gear shifting, drivers can activate the Rev matching control system by using the decicated rev button just above the N button. The steering wheel is manufactured with the N unique blue stitching and garnished with an N logo at the bottom. The gear shift also features a unique blue stripe as part of the coherent colour design. On top, the ball-type knob bears the N-badge. The electronic instrument cluster is specifically made for passionate drivers. The shift timing indicator positioned at the top centre of the cluster indicates when to shift gears for optimal race track driving performance. The red zone of the variable LED rev-counter changes according to the driving performance and varies with the engine’s oil temperature. Both the rev-counter and the speedometer are distinctively designed in accordance with the N line up, being surrounded by a blue lightning line. The i30 N features uniquely designed high-performance sport seats with powerful lumbar support. Extendable seat cushions further enhance stability and comfort for the driver and front passenger. Customers can choose from a combination of suede and leather or cloth. Both versions feature the outstanding, stamped N logo on the back rest. High-performance colour range Because of Hyundai Motor’s motor sport heritage, the unique Performance Blue colouring was introduced with the start of its WRC engagement in 2014 and has represented the N line up ever since. The i30 N comes with the exclusive Performance Blue paint. Altogether, customers can choose from six different exterior colours. Besides Performance Blue, the range includes Clean Slate, Polar White, Micron Grey and Phantom Black or Engine Red. The special side sills enhancing the sporty character of the lowered body are painted in Black, while the outside mirrors come with a Glossy Black painting. As the handles are coloured in the same way as the body of the car, they almost disappear, creating a more dynamic look. High-quality interior materials and dark metal inserts underline the elegant character of the i30 N and its affiliation with the motor sport sector. State-of-the-art high-performance technologies can be effectively combined to provide a smooth and controlled ride. The key high-performance features are segment-leading for Hyundai Motor’s first N model and can be chosen individually by the driver depending on the driving mood. Steering sytem The i30 N offers a new level of precision in its steering, delivering great value to the driver: its rack-mounted motor driven power steering system (R-MDPS) provides stability to the vehicle at high speeds and makes the car instantly responsive at lower speeds. The electric steering assist system located in the steering gear offers very high output and is designed even for track day driving with cup tires. Launch Control The i30 N’s Launch Control controls engine torque when starting from the standstill, helping to launch the car like a professional race driver. Launch Control can be effectively used in N drive mode: with the off-switched Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and the clutch disengaged, the first gear can be engaged immediately by releasing the clutch pedal within five seconds after full throttle acceleration. Rev matching Rev matching automatically adjusts the revs on the engine when the driver shifts from a higher to a lower gear. Consequently, depending on the drive mode, it allows smoother or sportier downshifts. The Rev matching button can be switched on easily by hand as it is located on the right side of the steering wheel. Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) By controlling the damping force, ride and handling and stability are both enhanced. Depending on the driving conditions, from daily trips to circuit driving, the vehicle’s performance can be adjusted. The use of a solenoid valve guarantees a precise and immediate damping force control. It allows the driver to influence the stiffness of the suspension with the push of a button. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system stabilises the vehicle during cornering manoeuvres. If desired, the ESC can be switched off completely for maximum race track feeling. Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) (with Performance Package) The strong cornering ability of i30 N is achieved by different new performance features, such as the Electronically-Controlled Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD). This allows driven wheels to turn at different speeds by applying different amounts of torque depending on the load transfer from the inner to the outer front axle wheel. Wheel slip in specific conditions is reduced and understeering on cornering minimised. E-LSD increases the maximum cornering speed and the fun to drive through corners from turning to early wind corner acceleration. Electronic Sound Generator (ESG) To provide the inside of the i30 N with a real high-performance experience, a sporty engine sound is produced by the Electronic Sound Generator in the body panel. In the cabin, at the base of the windscreen,an engine sound generator which provides some extra acoustic drama to match the mood of the driver. Variable Exhaust Valve System (with Performance Package) Depending on the drive mode, the customer can select different exhaust sounds and thus manage to actively control the exhaust valve. The sound differs with the size of the valve opening. The twin-outlet active exhaust has several settings, allowing the car to increase the amount of exhaust sound from normal to decidedly powerful. Driving Modes Drivers can choose from five individual drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, N and N Custom settings, which can be activated by using the two dedicated buttons on the steering wheel. The different modes change the character of the car, adjusting the parameters of the engine, the dampers, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD), engine sound, steering and Rev matching. In the N Custom mode, drivers can select from Eco, Normal, Sport and Sport+ settings for each high-performance component to match driving preferences and road conditions. Components Drive Mode ButtonEco / Normal / Sport Powertrain Settings Engine response ECO / NORMAL / SPORT Rev Matching OFF / NORMAL / SPORT Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) NORMAL / NORMAL / SPORT Exhaust sound (after-fire sound & variable exhaust sound)* ECO / NORMAL / SPORT Chassis Settings Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) NORMAL / NORMAL / SPORT Steering NORMAL / NORMAL / SPORT Electronic Stability Control (ESC) NORMAL / NORMAL / NORMAL Components N Button N Mode / N Custom Powertrains Settings Engine response SPORT+ / NORMAL - SPORT - SPORT+ Rev Matching SPORT+ /OFF - NORMAL - SPORT-SPORT+ Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) SPORT / NORMAL-SPORT Exhaust sound (after-fire sound & variable exhaust sound)* SPORT+ (with After-fire sound) / NORMAL - SPORT - SPORT+ Chassis Settings Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) SPORT+ / NORMAL - SPORT - SPORT+ Steering SPORT+ / NORMAL - SPORT - SPORT+ Electronic Stability Control (ESC) SPORT / NORMAL - SPORT - OFF *After-fire sound is heard only in SPORT+ Powerful Performance Package The i30 N is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine available with two power outputs: the Standard Package engine delivers 250 PS, whereas the Performance Package engine's maximum power is boosted to 275 PS. Both outputs deliver a maximum torque of 353 Nm and reach a maximum speed of 250 km/h. The 250 PS version accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds*, the 275 PS version in 6.1 seconds*. The engine offers direct response with a linear power development through the early responding turbo charger, and is available with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission. The power is transferred independently to the gear train, in order to always be ready to shift to the next gear without any torque interruption. The i30 N with Performance Package exclusively comes with 19-inch Pirelli P-Zero high-performance Hyundai N tyres, distinctive red N break calipers and larger brake discs (18-inch at the front, 17-inch at the rear). The Electronic Limited Slip Differential (E-LSD) and Variable Exhaust Valve System are additional features included in the Performance Package to provide the optimal race track experience. The i30 N driving modes can be displayed on the 5.0-inch or the optional 8.0-inch touch screen with navigation featuring information on PS, torque, turbo boost as well as a lap and acceleration timer. The specific N mode screen menu also offers customisable settings for the engine, suspension, steering, differential (in the Performance Package), transmission Rev matching, exhaust sound and stability control. The i30 N includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both systems enable users to connect their devices to deliver and control music, telephone or navigation functions on-screen. Seamless connectivity allows drivers and passengers to stay connected while remaining focussed on the road. Hyundai Motor also offers a wireless inductive charging pad for mobile phones (Qi standard) and seven-year free subscription to LIVE Services. LIVE Services offer updated information in real time: weather, traffic, speed cameras and online searches for points of interest. Class-leading safety package By offering the latest active safety features for the new i30 N, Hyundai Motor democratises technology like the other i30 body types. The Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) fitted in the i30 N operates in three stages using camera sensors. First, it warns the driver visually and audibly. In a second step, it controls the brakes according to the collision danger stage, and in a third stage applies maximum braking force to avoid a collision or minimise damage if a collision is unavoidable. With the Driver Attention Alert (DAA), the i30 N features a driver protection system: this monitors driving patterns in order to detect reckless or fatigued driving and prevent potential accidents. The Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) senses the car’s position and alerts the driver about unsafe movements at speeds over 60 km/h. By audibly and visually warning the driver before inducing corrective steering, it guides the driver back to a safe position. Road speed signs are immediately recognised by the Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF), which displays the speed limit in real time. The navigation system display and the TFT cluster both show the information. A High Beam Assist (HBA) detects both oncoming vehicles and vehicles in the same lane ahead at night and changes to low-beam lights as appropriate, thereby reducing blinding effects on other drivers. HBA automatically re-activates the high beams and therefore maximises the driver’s range of vision as soon as no vehicles are detected. View full article

Hyundai has been selling the Genesis sedan (what we know as the G80) in the United Kingdom since 2015 and has recently been axed. The reason? Hyundai only sold 50 Genesis sedans - not 500, but just 50. "The Genesis was never built for the European market, it was conceived for the Korean and American markets. It shows a saloon car with a 3.8-litre engine is not really what is demanded in Europe, and in particular in the UK," said Hyundai UK managing director Tony Whitehorn to Autocar. "We brought it in as much just to sample it: lots of people told us they’d driven a Genesis in America and liked it. It was also available in Australia and had done well there, so it was engineered in right-hand-drive. So we thought fine, let’s trial it and see how it goes." At the moment, it is unclear if and when Hyundai will launch the Genesis brand but current thinking has it further out than the original 2018 launch it had planned. If Hyundai decides to send Genesis into the U.K., the upcoming SUV will likely be the launch model. Source: Autocar View full article

As the Dodge Viper drives off into the sunset, its home since 1995 will be shut down. NBC Detroit affiliate WDIV reports that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' will be closing down the Conner Avenue Assembly in Detroit at the end of August. At the moment, more than 80 people work at the plant. In a notice filed with the state of Michigan in June, FCA said it would be offering positions at other locations to those affected. Formally a plant for Champion spark plugs, FCA took it over in 1995 to produce the Viper. Connor would also be home to the Plymouth Prowler from 1997 to 2002. Source: WDIV Detroit, Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

2017 will be the last year Volkswagen sells the Touareg in the U.S., according to Motor Trend. While a reason as to why wasn't given, we have to think declining sales played a key role. The past few years have seen sales fall at a steady rate - 2016 saw a 40 percent drop to 4,223 units. 2017 isn't faring any better with 1,630 Touaregs sold through June. There is also the model being squeezed by the larger Atlas crossover and the upcoming Tiguan, which is slightly longer than the Touareg. Volkswagen will continue to sell the Touareg in other markets, with the next-generation model due out later this year. Source: Motor Trend View full article