Monthly Archives: March 2014
2014 Acura MDX: A Budget Crossover
For 2014, Acura has completely redesigned its MDX model with highlights like improved fuel economy, luxurious high quality interior and improved control interface. The revamped 2014 Acura MDX illustrates its evolution as well as benefits it comes with. The previous generation SUV model from Acura was quite a success among buyers, especially the ones who like midsize luxury crossovers because it came with luxurious nature and sporty performance at a much lower price as compared to other luxury midsize crossovers. But, as we say there is always a room for improvement, so has already been implemented by Acura in its new MDX as they have made some canny upgrades to present a more refined version with the aim of achieving broader appeal.
MDX which hit the market last year has the same platform as Honda and Odyssey, however this year it comes with a rather new platform that provides a slightly increased interior room. The addition of useful new features in 2014 Acura MDX like forward sliding second row with touch button feature to facilitate third row seats access makes it a complete value for money. Array of control buttons which were quite a put off in previous versions do no longer exist and have made way for a smarter 7 inch touchscreen panel making dash look more cleaner and modern.
Under the hood, 2014 Acura MDX has introduced new 3.5 liter V6 engine which offers lower end torque because of its direct fuel injection technology. However, the horsepower is less by 10hp if compared to its previous version 3.7 liter engine. The car maker is saying that their new MDX is powerful enough to reach from 0 to 60 mph half a second earlier then what its previous version was offering because this time they have reduced weight almost by 275 pounds. The newly introduced engine also brings with it improved fuel economy and their AWD models specifically offer up to 17 percent improvement in the mpg. Make a first critical move in its midsize crossover production, Acura offering MDX 2014 with two wheel drive option which is quite a gift for buyers living in mild climates as it becomes fuel efficient and less expensive.
The talent featured by Acura MDX all these years is quite formidable, but it also faces tough competition from the better and pricier versions of midsize crossovers which also ready to hit the 2014 SUV market with even more pomp and show. Giving direct competition to Acura MDX is 2014 Buick Enclave, which is undoubtedly more spacious and less expensive but also lacks the refinement and handling offered by Acura. In refinement and technology, 2014 Acura MDX has a competitor in 2014 BMW X5 which is more or less a performance oriented SUV but is slightly higher on the price band. On the other hand, Infiniti’s QX60 and MKT from Lincoln fail to offer enjoyable driving dynamics which are a positive point with Acura MDX. So, if you are also looking for a midsized SUV that can offer pleasant handling, excellent driving dynamics, and lovable features then highly evolved 2014 Acura MDX is our best pick.
2014 BMW X5: Redesigned and Evolutionary
To make a hit in 2014 SUV market, BMW has entered the paradigm with its evolutionary and redesigned BMW X5, which has updated styling, revised powerful engine and improved interior space to make it best among the futuristic SUVs. For those who still appreciate watching first generation BMW X5s on roads, should not forget to consider that those have become quite outdated if compared to the next generation SUVs hitting the market. Taking cue from this only, the German car maker has completely redesigned its 2014 BMW X5 to present the more luxurious SUV which fortunately doesn’t drive like an SUV.
14 models year old in market, BMW still understands what a car lover expects from its luxury SUV and the same they have incorporated in their redesigned BMW X5 keeping a beautiful amalgamation of performance, luxury and utility in mind. Although, BMW claimed that they have kept everything intact which the previous X5 owners have praised, but still they have managed to go a step ahead to make it one of the favorite midsize SUVs. With the 2014 model, you will realize that BMW is stepping carefully in the futuristic SUV section, without making any compromise to their flagship standards. The new 2014 BMW X5 looks more or less the same as it previous model from the outside with the exception of handsome rig which is the only difference one can spot from its previous versions.
This time as well, the BMW has maintained the same size and weight while guaranteeing exceptionally capable handling and stability of the X5. Even in the interior section there is not much to boast about, however this time it is more spacious, roomier and classier than its predecessor. They have beautifully split the second row seats in 40/20/40 sections to make them comfortable, thus improving their overall utility and making compromise on their third row seat. Like all their SUV, the 2014 BMW X5 as well can be customized with features depending on your own choice with the addition of designs and themes to make it customized for your needs.
Peeping under the hood and we were engulfed by the feeling of déjà vu because the 2014 BMW X5 has kept its turbocharged inline-6 in the 35i trim level unchanged and X5 50is turbocharged V8 is also here without any major modifications with a slight increase in horsepower which now touches 450 hp with better fuel economy. To make the choices more intriguing for their customers, BMW has come up with 35d model and diesel fueled engine to choose from. 255 hp output of diesel engine remains unchanged as well apart from few tweaks and is paired with eight speed automatic transmission that ensures better fuel economy.
With midsize SUV market becoming abounded these days, 2014 BMW X5 is not the only ideal choice if we see it from the family hauling point. For this, BMW is facing competition from its own fleet because X3 is a batter option as it’s not that small. Although they have offered third row seats but they are quite small to be even considered if compared to the cheaper SUVs like 2014 Acura MDX and Infiniti QX60. Even in performance department 2014 BMW X5 has its competitors like 2014 Range Rover and 2014 Porsche Cayenne.
Toyota Highlander 2014 Bringing Comfort to SUV
Smooth ride, refined optional V6 engine and a redesigned model by Toyota are the first few words to describe their still to arrive highlander 2014, which is sure to take the SUV world 2014 by storm, ranking 9 among the best affordable midsize SUV’s Toyota Highlander 2014 SUV is a complete package for family as many of the critics has awarded it with a title of great family hauler.
The base model of Toyota Highlander 2014 comes equipped with a 185 horsepower, 2.7 liter four cylinder engine which is adequate to provide enough power for smooth ride. However, they have kept an option of a 270 horsepower, 3.5 liter V6 engine as well which is more refined and offers more power in comparison to the later one. Going by their trend, Toyota has kept its sis speed automatic transmission standard across all the trim levels. The major distinguishable point among the various Toyota Highlander 2014 SUV models is their EPA which varies in both the engine versions, the base version offers 10/25 mpg city/highway estimated EPA, whereas the V^ engine version offers 10/25 mpg city/highway estimated EPA, which are considered as good for the class this SUV belongs to.
Test drivers have shown great acceptance and assurance towards Toyota Highlander 2014 SUV’s smooth ride, secure handling and appropriately weighing steering system which is communicative enough to ease the overall driving experience. Undoubtedly, Toyota Highlander 2014 SUV is far better than its close competitors Chevrolet Traverse and Dodge Durango which come equipped with the comparable features.
If compared in terms of appearance, critics find Toyota Highlander SUV a step ahead from others with its attractive design and use of high quality material in building interiors. As far as the comfort is concerned, the first and the second row seats seems comfortable enough for adults to sit, whereas the third row seats are good enough for kids only if planning a long trip. The informative and interactive touch screen system of Toyota Highlander 2014 is something to look out for in an affordable SUV of this class. The availability of wide array of cabin storage space, with a special mention of spacious shelf under the dashboard offers convenience to store odd items like glasses, cell phones, etc.
This time Toyota has given comfort and well being of passengers the top most priority while designing it as a future car for 2014. The future version of Toyota Highlander 2014 is 7cm longer and 1.5 cm in comparison to its predecessors so that Toyota can offer more spacious interior especially in the second row. This 2014 SUV is also a first eight seater SUV by Toyota in this category, wherein all the trims are available with third row, which is disappointingly is suitable for kids only.
The fully loaded Toyota Highlander 2014 SUV comes with an array of standard features that primarily include backup camera, panoramic monoroof, easy navigation, 12 speaker JBL audio system, adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring, which makes it a fun to drive future SUV at very nominal price.
First drive of 2014 Land Rover LR4
Giving tough competition to the already raving SUV market, Land Rover has come up with its first installment of futuristic cars with its all new 2014 Land Rover LR4, which is not only impressive with its amazing looks but is also a must to watch out for because of its towing ability. With enough room to accommodate 7 passengers comfortably, this new car looks more like a rather refurbished version of its predecessor LR3. Revised interiors, luxurious cabin, powerful engine performance make the newly launched LR4 worth for its price and hype. To make the design more aesthetically appealing, the company has introduced changes in its design with renovated front bumper, front grilles and LED accent smart headlights.
However, if you dig deep in the interior and exterior of 2014 Land Rover LR4, you will find out that all these years Land Rover has made no attempt to make any changes to the basic structure of its SUVs, which also remains the same with this car as well. In addition to that, the overall look of their SUVs looks more inspired from the vintage SUV designs which were introduced long back in 1989.
Speaking about the tech specs, the new 2014 Land Rover LR4 comes with highly efficient 3.0 liter V6 engine which is by far the best if compared to its previous fuel thirsty V8 engine. The supercharged engine is capable of generating 340 horsepower along with 331 lb-ft torque. The newly introduced eight speed automatic transmission is especially designed by ZF, which is also the major thing to watch out for in the new LR4. The heavy weight vehicle is powerful enough to sprint from 0 to 6mph within 7.7 seconds with the maximum speed of 121mph. Mileage for 2014 Land Rover LR4 can go up to 14mpg thanks to its newly added transmissions and can go up to 19mpg while on highway while using premium gasoline.
This time around, Land Rover has introduced the two speed unit for LR4, which is easily available as an additional option for those looking for more rough and thrilling off road driving. However, the standard transfer case in 2014 Land Rover LR4 with single speed unit has the power to offer 42 to 58 percent torque split for both front and rear. To make the look of 2014 Land Rover LR4 all futuristic yet close to the roots, Land Rover has maintained all its standard features in this one as well which primarily include adjustable air suspension. To match its level, Land Rover has made no comprises to its off road prowess, which helps LR4 gain momentum among other SUVs. The all applauded terrain response system, which is also standard in Land Rover SUVs helps drivers in optimizing vehicle while handling difficult terrains. In addition to everything, the terrain response for LR4 is offered in five settings general, grass/gravel/snow, mud/ruts, sand, and rock crawl.
Luxury leather upholstery, alpine grass rear roof, touch screen panel with USB port and sound system, power seats, alloy wheels with 19 inch rim definitely work as an icing on the already delicious cup cake.
2015 Audi Q7: A New Generation SUV
Every year, Audi comes up with something unique to make its crossovers winners among others, this time as well for 2015, Audi has finally brought its Audi Q7 series at the end of the production cycle to introduce its all new next generation biggest SUV offering with Q tag, which has always been controversial because of Nissans’ claim to Q tag which they have used mainly for their Sedans during the year 1989. Prototypes for 2015 Audi Q7 created earlier this year shows some really interesting signs to look out for in the all new Audi crossover, because this time around the car maker is barging more on its path of discovering the new style of SUV by making significant changes in light clusters and trapezoidal grills.
The new 2015 Audi Q7 looks smaller in size, which might also be because of its steeper roofline, however, less ground clearance from Audi crossover seems to be a surprise for many because of its small body type. Making some notable changes to its designs, Audi this time has added massive front grille along with a newly designed bumper to allow more air ventilation. This is not all, there is more to look forward under the body and surprisingly it’s all more spectacular then the exterior with all aluminum chassis which looks similar to the Range Rover. The new generation 2015 Audi Q7 is a seven seater crossover and has become even more agile and cost effective if compared to its predecessors.
When it comes to its operating basis, this time Audi has done all it can to take on the competition coming from Mercedes and BMW. For additional powertrain, the 2015 Audi Q7 maker has introduced its 4.0 TFSI V8 twin turbo unit in the crossover range which until recently has been associated with the Sedan Audi. The newly introduced engine delivers 520 horsepower and 650nm of torque, however it fails to reach the level of monstrous V12 6.0 diesel engine with amazing 1,000Hm torque, but its power is still 20 hp higher than the usual crossover engine. Audi has promised to introduce its plug in hybrid version with the 3.0 liter TDI and electric motor which will surely add another 115 hp power to its engine.
This year Q7 will have a small four cylinder 2.0 liter TDI engine and will also rank high among the other V8 TDI which might be a part of SQ7 diesel model. Speculations are rife that Audi will keep the basic price of the new 2015 Audi Q7 somewhere around $47.695 and the price will increase with enrichment of the car package. Car enthusiasts are also expecting Audi to unveil Q7s’ premier model later this year, whereas the delivery of the basic model might start in early summer this year only.
Being one of the most anticipated crossovers for 2015, Audi Q7 has managed to create curiosity among the Audi lovers looking forward to buy the next generation SUV in 2015. However, the Audi stride will remain high only if its competitors like BMW and Mercedes fail to match the standard.
2015 Porsche Macan SUV: Small Luxury SUV with Incredible Performance
Thriving high on the success of the midsized Cayenne Crossover SUV, Porsche is leaving no stone unturned to make a grand entry in futuristic SUV segment. Although, it has been only a while when company made its way in the world of compact crossovers to expand its family of luxury cars, but has become a reckoned name when it comes to buying performance oriented small sized crossovers. Come 2015 and Porsche is all set to take SUV market by tide with its 2015 Porsche Macan, which is small in size and also light on the pockets of its perspective customers. Iconic crest shaped hood emblem of Porsche is worthy of every penny spent on it because it comes packed with speed, agile handling and engaging driving character which a car lover would expect from any of the Porsche car like 911 and Cayenne.
Some of the components of 2015 Porsche Macan might seem similar to 2014 Audi Q5, but it comes with its own engine, styling and suspension design, which makes it stand out from the crowd. Apart from that, Porsche ahs engineered the new Macan in such a way that it will drive more like a rear wheel drive car, which is usually not common among many premium brand crossovers. The standard all wheel drive dynamic of Macan is engineered in such a way that most of the engine’s power can be directed to the rear wheels, whereas the front wheels will receive only redirected power which is usually needed to sustain traction.
The main source of power generation in 2015 Porsche Macan is one of the two available V6 engines. For Macan S, Porsche has offered turbocharged 3.0 liter V6 engine with 340 HP, whereas the Macan Turbo comes with turbocharged 3.6 liter V6 with 400 HP, which has been stipulated as by far the most powerful engine one can find in a small size crossover SUV. Quick shifting manual transmission comes as a standard feature with all trim levels just the way Porsche offers with its sports cars. For those who love sport SUVs, Porsche has also made a sport tuned suspension version of Macan which comes with optional features like power gripped summer rated tires for improved performance, adaptive suspension, rear differential torque vectoring, all these features are not very common among this class of SUVs and are also beneficial for its handling abilities. Optional air suspension is quite good as it increases Macans’ ride height almost by 9.1 inches thus bolstering its capability especially on the dirt trails.
You can ensure that the hardware used for producing such class product is not of cheap quality, which has made considerable increase in the Porsche Macan’s price making it an expensive luxury crossover. Going by these lines the closest competitor for 2015 Porsche Macan is the Audi SQ5, which can give it tough competition in terms of price, performance and technology. For a lesser value competitor, 2014 BMW X3 is still arguably the best choice. Land Rover Range Rover Evoque is also an option to be considered as a cheap alternative. But if you are looking for performance and luxury in a small crossover, then there can be nothing better than 2015 Porsche Macan.
2015 Lincoln MKC: SUV with Promising Future
Most of the car lovers prefer spending their fortune on high end luxury cars that come in small packages and that has been provide quite true if we go by the recent trends of car sales, you will come to know that more and more people are showing keen interest in buying compact luxury crossovers which have also become the fastest growing futuristic car segment in the market. Every big player of luxury car market starting from Buick to Land Rover is making every possible attempt to have their own piece of share in the high class typical luxury models on their humble and existing platforms. Following the trend is 2015 Lincoln MKC, which is a newest entrant in the budding compact SUV market gives a clear indication that the American luxury car maker is in no mood to lose opportunity to make it big in the SUV segment.
Going by the first look and feel of the flagship MKC, it becomes quite clear that it will be having the same mechanical identity as the Ford Escape. However, to make 2015 Lincoln MKC look distinctive from its blue collar counterpart company has made reflective changes in its skin over the chassis and has wider stance, one piece wraparound tailgate, signature split wing grille and LED taillamps. The initial concept model launched by the company displays sculpted hood and wheel arches that may get carried over once the production version hits the market. However, the inclusion of 19 inch wheels with attractive dark chrome finish, roof rails and grille add classy and modest touch to its appearance.
But, only the visibly good looks cannot make MKC a sure shot success in the thriving SUV market especially belonging to this class. Although, Lincoln have taken in account the complaints they have received for MKZ sedan and have ensured that the same will not be repeated for MKC. The inside looks of 2015 Lincoln MKC gives the first impression of buttons and knobs that deliver tactile control over multimedia and other climate arrange functions. This time as well, Lincoln has managed to beautifully trap all these functions with its super sensitive touch panels. This time around, they have made touchscreen the anchor of MKC’s control console and user is no longer forced to punch the virtual buttons to adjust functions, which has been a drawback in older versions of Lincoln’s other cars. There has been a significant and impressive cabin improvement in 2015 Lincoln MKC with inclusion of leather seats and real wood trims.
For the entry level 2015 Lincoln MKC, there will only be standard 2.0 liter turbocharged engine with four cylinders, 240 horsepower and 270 pound feet torque. To give competition to its rivals offering six cylinder engines, Lincoln has also introduced optional 2.3 liter EcoBoost engine featuring 275 horsepower and 300 lb ft torque. The newly launched comes with standard front wheel drive whereas buyers can opt for all wheel drive feature as well.
It’s true that compact crossover as the biggest growing car section, but 2015 Lincoln MKC has a long road to travel especially with tough competition coming from market leaders like Audi Q5, Mercedes GLK, Buick Encore, Porsche Macan and BMW X1/X3.
2015 Audi Q3: A Premium Compact Crossover
Moving forward from the success of their highly appreciated midsize Q5, Audi is in the process of to offer an even smaller SUV to its customers in 2015 which will aptly be named 2015 Audi Q3. Market leaders are considering it a late move for the already thriving premium compact crossover segment, which might create trouble for them to strengthen their hold in SUV market.
There will be no denying that this time as well Audi will maintain its high standards and will introduce its refurbished 2015 Audi Q3 with turbocharged four cylinder engine which will compliment beautifully its six speed automatic transmission. The new 2.0 liter engine will have the 200 horsepower capability and will sport 207 pound feet of torque. All these features combined together will allow the newly 2015 Audi Q3 to deliver lively acceleration and low end muscle to perform cargo duties usually expected from such small size SUVs. This time as well, the Audi will sport front four wheel drive, whereas the all wheel drive feature will also come as an option.
This time Audi Q3 has made reasonable changes in size and has decreased it by nearly 10 inches to make it shorter than Q5. But they have made no compromise with its cargo space, which will still remain 48 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down, however it will go down to 16,.2 cubes when the rear seats are up. Apart from having all the standard features that an Audi SUV comes with, this time the 2015 Audi Q3 will also have 18 inch wheels, heated 12 way front seats, a panoramic sunroof and leather upholstery. To make the SUV more enticing for consumers Audi is offering additional options like sporty front seats, 7 inch display, navigation system, 14 speaker audio system from Boss and a power liftgate to improve its chances in the market.
When it comes to safety, Audi leaves no stone unturned and offers the best in class security systems that primarily include parking assist, rear seat side airbags, blind spot monitoring, rearview camera and side curtain airbags which are standard in all models. This futuristic SUV will be available for customers in three adjustable driver dynamic modes namely Auto, dynamic and comfort to choose from. When taking a test drive, it is quite visible that the SUV offers plenty of grip to the driver and also suppression of body roll is quite Impressive. However, the speed sensitive steering wheel doesn’t leave much room for road feel. If you are looking for the more rugged up version of A3, then you might get completely disappointed.
The market price for Audi Q3, when it will hit the roads in 2015 can be somewhere around $40,000, which is quite a lot of money to spend on an Audi, when you can easily buy a Range Rover for that price, which incidentally is also the toughest rival for luxury car maker. Whereas, you can easily buy a BMW X1 for almost $31,000, which is actually a quite less amount, and also Mercedes is launching its Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class at the same. So, experts are expecting Audi to keep its 2015 Audi Q3 price somewhere between that only to fit the bill.
2015 Jeep Wrangler: A Compact SUV going Renegade
The all new 2015 Jeep Renegade is all set the scorch the already heating up SUV segment of compact cars apart from making a value addition to the portfolio of the brand matching every inch with its benchmarks like efficiency and excellent driving dynamics. Going the traditional way, the new 2015 Jeep Renegade also comes with its best in class 4X4 capability, which has always been a plus point with Jeep and most of the customers expect that to come in the package.
The design of all new Renegade has been refurbished keeping in mind its global acceptability and has been made palatable to make it match up to global standards. The cute and little buff bugger design of 2015 Jeep Renegade is appealing at first look and gives a sense of refreshment from usually mundane Jeep styling. However, Jeep has managed to retain its trademark seven slat grille, which can be recognized instantly. The traditional bulging fenders and square roofline are also perfect for the next generation Grand Wagoner. The addition of upturned rear side windowline and the attractive wrap around rear glass in 2015 Jeep Renegade adds a special character to its appearance. Jerry can crosshatches taillamps are actually very appealing and looks amazingly look with its Trailhawk trim. If seen minutely from inside you will find this to be a combination of Jeep Cherokee and Fiat 500L. Like any other hardcore Wrangler from the Jeep, Renegade also comes with My Sky, which are removable plastic panels placed aesthetically over front and rear seats.
Keeping itself abreast with the ongoing global demands for SUVs, the all new 2015 Renegade has been engineered in such a way that it can accept the functionality of for MultiAir gasoline engines and two MultiJet II diesel engines. The addition of start/stop technology and availability of option to choose between six speed manual or nine speed automatic transmission is sure to make value addition for improved fuel economy. Availability of Renegade in Diesel engine will surely be an icing on the cake to look out for.
Because it belongs to the Jeep SUV factory, 2015 Renegade should be excellently capable off road because it comes with advanced 4X4 systems that can make it move up to 100% on the torque engine no matter what kind of wheel grip it has on board. The active auto drive system has the capability to run on five modes namely sand, snow, auto, mode and rock. Disconnection rear axle is a value addition for improving its fuel economy on long trips. To improve its all terrain capability further, Jeep has introduced skid plates, all terrain tires, independent rear suspension, tow hooks and additional hill descent control.
But to be SUV lovers favorite futuristic car, 2015 Jeep Renegade has to do several things like it has to be a really good Jeep, with its accomplished and sophisticated 4X4 system that offer ample of ground clearance to the drivers. However, 2015 Jeep Renegade has a tough road to travel with competitors like Subaru XV Crosstrek, Nissan Juke and Honda Urban SUV as they have great chance of eating its space in the market.
2015 Bentley SUV: A Perfect Combination of Luxury and Class
The latest car to enter the futuristic SUV market is the 2015 Bentley SUV, which is also be seen as the flagship of Bentley to enter the thriving base of futuristic SUVs. With this car, the company is aiming to double their profits and also strengthen their foothold in the SUV market that is showing a promising figure for future generations. The new concept SUV car from Bentley is high on luxurious details and is specifically made keeping in mind the taste and preferences of high class society. The main target for the newly launched 2015 Bentley SUV is mostly the growing SUV markets’ like U.S. and China. With this car, the company is trying to bring its own version of luxurious concept car so that they can make a winning comeback in the luxury SUV cars segment.
No doubt the premium SUV from Bentley has the potential to become an excellent choice for SUV lovers who are looking forward to buy the futuristic SUVs in coming times. Also, Bentley has assured that the SUV they have come up with is a class apart from what all the series they have featured so far in their SUV section. The Continental GT they have introduced in their new 2015 Bentley SUV is an additional share for the powerful engine which has always been a highlight of Bentley cars. This time they are banking highly upon twin turbo W-12 and also 4.0 liter twin turbo V-8 engine to give tough competition to the other futuristic SUVs making their way in the market. To make the drive system more advanced and river friendly, the 2015 Bentley comes with eight speed dual clutch automatic drive system that is well connected and communicative with the all of the wheel drive system available in the car. There is no denying of the fact that the engine system that has been offered by Bentley for their 2015 SUV one of the best in the SUV class cars of the current generation.
Apart from being high on tech specs, the car definitely has more on it splatter to offer especially when it comes to looks and design. The luxurious design of the all new 2015 Bentley SUV makes it stand tall among most of the luxury SUVs with futuristic concepts. Owing to its high class design and luxury interiors, he car is actually worth it every penny spent on it and its price is highly justified going by its tech specs and class. What else left to make it a perfect SUV to watch out for? Yes the car is a complete vehicle for a family with its comfortable seating and travel pleasure it offers for long drives.
Expected to hit the market in late 2014 or early 2015, the all new Bentley SUV is surely the most recommended SUV for those looking forward to buy new cars in which are high on specifications as well as luxury. It is also the best option to go off road with family as it will surely make your trip a hassle free experience. Comfortable interior designs, comfort for passengers, top class luxury from inside as well outside, makes 2015 Bentley SUV the best choice for 2015 car buyers.
