Infiniti Q50, 2014

 

 

 Infiniti Q50, 2014

A New Dimension in Dynamic Design
While Infiniti sports sedans have always been noted for their outstanding proportions and presence, the new Infiniti Q50 adds a new dimension of premium style.

Its strong first impression is anchored by the smooth yet dynamic character line arising from its "double arch" grille. It energetically flows through the bodyside like a wave and merges with the rear end, creating a highly fluid and intriguing profile and fully illustrating the Infiniti Q50's dynamic and athletic stance.

Signature Infiniti exterior design features include the "double arch" grille, dynamic arch roofline and Crescent-cut C-pillar. The front end is decidedly aggressive, with a sport front fascia offered on the Q50 sport models. The new grille's three-dimensional, textural quality is provided by elaborate detailing of the waved mesh pattern surface and chrome surround, while the distinctive LED headlights and marker lights' sharp lines suggest an almost human look.

The lean, robust body sides are designed to anchor the performance stance with a strong, solid "bone" and arched roofline that flows to the Crescent C-pillars that are similar to those that originally appeared on the Essence Concept. In the rear, the side character lines smoothly merge with the shape of the rear LED combination lights. The familiar rear double-arch trunk line completes the strong, unforgettable view from behind. Heated outside mirrors with integrated LED turn signals are standard, while a power sliding and tilting glass sunroof is optionally available.

Other exterior refinements include new door architecture with narrower, roll-formed A- and B-pillar sashes that provide improved ingress and egress, as well as a more open cabin environment. A new color palette has been specially selected to accent the Q50 contours and sculpted surfaces and includes a range of eight premium colors.

The new body design also offers enhanced airflow over both the upper and lower body portions, resulting in a coefficient of drag of just 0.26. The Infiniti Q50 also features zero front and rear lift.

Performance With a Personal Touch
Throughout the Infiniti Q50's development, compromise was never an option. No compromise on innovation, design or performance targets, allowing the development teams to stretch the boundaries of what a sports sedan can be.

At launch in North America, two advanced powertrains available, followed by additional engine options in other global markets later in the year. The Q50's refined 3.7-liter aluminum-alloy DOHC 24-valve V6 is rated at 328 horsepower (est.) and 269 lb-ft of torque (est.) and features Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) and Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL).

The  hybrid powertrain features the Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid system with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control. It combines a 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy V6 and compact laminated lithium-ion battery design with an innovative one-motor/two-clutch motor control. The system's V6 is rated at 296 horsepower (est.) and 255 lb-ft of torque (est.), while the advanced 50 kW electric motor is rated at 67 horsepower (est.) and 199 lb-ft of torque (est.). The hybrid system net power is 354 horsepower (est.), providing strong acceleration and lean fuel economy.

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Hyundai Elantra Coupe, 2014

 

 Hyundai Elantra Coupe, 2014

The 2014 Hyundai Elantra Coupe adds more fun-to-drive elements to a model known for its design, value and premium features. The updated Elantra Coupe now features a standard 2.0-liter Nu Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine, which adds 25 more horsepower (+17 percent) and 23 lb.-ft. of torque (+18 percent) from the prior model year's 1.8-liter engine. In the Elantra Coupe, this power plant produces 173 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 154 lbs.-ft. of torque at 4,700 rpm, enhancing the behind the wheel experience for consumers. The refreshed 2014 Elantra Coupe and the rest of the Elantra line up was introduced at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show.

To up the fun factor even further, the 2014 Hyundai Elantra Coupe receives sport-tuned steering and suspension calibrations to sharpen turn-in and handling on twisty roads. Other new standard refinements to the Elantra Coupe include the addition of a rear spoiler, 17-inch alloy wheels, a leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and a unique blackout grille with chrome surround. These features were optional last year.

The 2014 Elantra Coupe is now offered in only one, very well equipped trim level, making it easier for customers to find the Elantra Coupe of their choice. The only choices a shopper has to make is color and if they want the Technology Package or not. The GS and SE trims have been consolidated into one model for the 2014 model year.

New technologies available on the 2014 Elantra Coupe include the application of Hyundai's next-generation navigation and audio technology. The new system features simpler user interfaces, enhanced voice recognition commands, improved navigation screens and a seven-inch color touchscreen with rearview camera. Also, optional for 2014 is Pandora internet radio, LED taillights, projector headlights with LED accents and Hyundai's Blue Link and Assurance Connected Care safety, service and infotainment telematics system. Blue Link and Assurance Connected Care services include Automatic Collision Notification, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and in-vehicle Car Care maintenance scheduling among other features. The 2014 Elantra Coupe with all its upgrades will be available at Hyundai dealerships in winter of 2013.

TORQUE-RICH 2.0-LITER NU GASOLINE DIRECT INJECTION ENGINE
In a segment where GDI technology is not normally found, Hyundai is anticipating the addition of a 2.0-liter GDI engine will be very popular with Coupe shoppers looking for performance and affordability. The all-new 2.0-liter GDI engine called 'Nu' produces 173 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 154 lbs.-ft. of torque at 4,700 rpm. The performance gains were achieved by increasing the displacement of the engine from 1.8 liters to 2.0 liters and equipping it with a GDI fuel delivery system instead of a MPI fuel delivery system. Increasing the stroke from 87.2 mm to 97 mm gets the 1.8-liter Nu engine up to 2.0 liters. This engine in the Elantra Coupe delivers more torque and enhanced response when compared with a similar MPI engine. In fact, the 2.0-liter Nu has been tuned to provide more torque at 1,500 rpm than the outgoing 1.8-liter Nu. The engine also delivers more torque - from 4,000 rpm to 5,500 rpm - for impressive linear power delivery all the way up to redline. Equipping the Elantra Coupe with the 2.0-liter Nu four-cylinder engine with GDI ensures a great balance between performance and fuel economy. The Elantra Coupe with the new 2.0-liter GDI engine achieves an EPA estimated 24 city/34 highway mpg figure with a ULEV emissions rating.

The 2.0-liter Nu offers D-CVVT camshafts and hydraulic engine mounts for optimum power, efficiency and refinement. Using D-CVVT on both camshafts has several advantages when compared with using it just on the intake camshaft. These advantages include a two-percent improvement in performance (via increased volumetric efficiency), two-percent improvement in fuel economy (via reduced pumping losses) and a 30 percent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions. In the valvetrain, roller swing arms and hydraulic lash adjusters reduce valve-driven friction to help improve fuel economy one percent compared with direct valve tappets.

A plastic two-stage Variable Intake System (VIS) enables intake air to be directed between long and short intake manifolds, resulting in a broad, linear power band. This results in a four-percent improvement in performance.

Another technology Hyundai engineers have incorporated into the Hyundai Elantra Coupe is an electronic throttle control. Electronic throttle control replaces the conventional cable and mechanical linkage with virtually instantaneous computerized control. This system accurately controls air intake and engine torque, improving drivability, response and fuel economy.

To further improve fuel economy, Elantra Coupe applies double-pipe plumbing technology to the internal heat exchanger. Double-pipe plumbing improves cabin cooling efficiency, while minimizing compressor size and reducing fuel consumption. In addition, an externally-controlled variable compressor is used to improve fuel efficiency when compared with an internal variable compressor.

The Nu four-cylinder engine also has an offset crankshaft design that reduces friction and pressure between the piston and cylinder wall for a one-percent improvement in fuel economy.The Elantra Coupe comes equipped with a six-speed automatic (A6MF1-1) transaxle with SHIFTRONIC manual control.

CHASSIS AND STEERING REFINEMENTS
Under the skin, the new 2014 Elantra Coupe has had significant alterations aimed at enhancing handling and steering. A reworked Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) setup along with stiffer dampers, rear springs and a larger front stabilizer bar on the Elantra Coupe deliver better front roll control / stiffness and more fluid suspension action.

THIRD-GENERATION NAVIGATION AND AUDIO TECHNOLOGY
Hyundai Elantra Coupe now offers an optional multifunction seven-inch touch-screen display with navigation. This third-generation display features a simpler user interface, enhanced voice recognition commands and improved navigation screens. The system is more intuitive for commonly used tasks. Simple pop-up messages now appear to help pair a phone. The voice recognition software understands street addresses and cities all in one sentence. The route screens display speed limits and details the next three maneuvers. One or two button pushes now complete most functions.

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Honda Civic Si Coupe, 2014

 

Honda Civic Si Coupe, 2014

The Honda turns its attention to the Honda Civic Coupe and Coupe Si, implementing a host of exterior design changes that include a more aggressive grille, hood, front fenders and headlight design. Additional Coupe exterior changes include new taillight lenses, sportier front and rear bumpers, new side mirrors and new wheel designs.

The Honda Civic Si Coupe benefits from the same styling enhancements as the standard Civic Coupe but adds Si-exclusive design cues, including a unique lower front bumper garnish, larger rear decklid spoiler, a distinctive front spoiler and sporty rear air diffuser. The Civic Si Sedan picks up on these same cues, and both the Si Coupe and Si Sedan get larger, 18-inch (+1 inch) wheels and tires with new wheel designs.

The performance-tuned Honda Civic Si Coupe and Si Sedan also get a retuned exhaust system that helps boost peak output to 205 horsepower (+4 horsepower) and 174 lb-ft of torque (+4 ft-lb).

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GMC Sierra HD, 2015

 

 

 GMC Sierra HD, 2015

The designed to deliver class-leading capability with enhanced comfort and smarter technologies, the new 2015 GMC Sierra HD lineup advances a 111-year legacy of professional heavy-duty trucks.

The new Sierra HDs arrive in the first quarter of 2014, including 2500HD and 3500HD models, and the Sierra Denali HD, which matches do-it-all capability with an exclusive package of design and upscale interior amenities.

Segment-leading capabilities across the range include the highest payload - 7,374 pounds - and the highest conventional trailering rating - 19,600 pounds. The maximum fifth-wheel trailering rating is 23,200 pounds. Gas and Duramax diesel powertrains are offered, including a bi-fuel option that pairs the gas engine with a compressed natural gas system.

Bold styling and an all-new, more comfortable and technology-infused interior are carried forward from the 2014 Sierra 1500, including new double cab and revised crew cab body styles. Larger rear doors on each, along with new seat designs, enable easier entry and exit from the rear seat and two inches of additional legroom on crew cabs.

The new interior is also designed to help drivers and passengers whether they're on the job or on a weekend getaway, with easier-to-reach, more intuitively located controls, more storage compartments, more plug-ins for electronic devices and the latest-generation GMC Intelli Link infotainment system - with an eight-inch-diagonal color touch screen.

Additional new and enhanced features for the 2015 GMC Sierra HD lineup:

• Corner Step rear bumper, EZ Lift and Lower tailgate, standard upper tie-downs and other features that make cargo handling easier
• Standard Stabili Trak with Trailer Sway Control on all models, including 3500HD dually
• Integrated cruise control, auto grade braking and diesel exhaust braking (diesel models), for greater driving control and reduced brake wear on grades
• Enhanced cooling airflow, which enables the Duramax turbo diesel and 6.0L gas engine to better maintain full power, even under heavy loads and high ambient temperatures
• Latest-generation Intelli Link infotainment system, which offers a variety of connectivity options for devices of all types and available navigation

Sierra Denali HD details
The distinctive Sierra Denali HD features a signature Denali chrome grille, unique interior decorative trim, a polished stainless steel exhaust outlet (gas models) and body-color front and rear bumpers. Complementing the soft-touch instrument panel trim and aluminum trim are Denali-specific interior details, including script on the bright door sills and embossed into the front seats.

Sierra Denali's high-tech interior also features an exclusive eight-inch customizable driver display that can show relevant settings, audio and navigation information in the instrument panel. Sierra Denali's standard eight-inch Color Touch navigation radio with Intellilink, located above the center console, serves as the main hub for Bluetooth-connected phones and portable devices connected through five standard USB ports.

Other features standard on Sierra Denali include projector-style headlamps with light-emitting diode signature daytime running lights, a Bose audio system, heated and cooled leather front bucket seats, a heated steering wheel and a power sliding rear window with defogger.

GMC Sierra HD design and exterior features
Sierra HD trucks have a new face that conveys GMC's professional grade aesthetic with greater technical precision, including an all-new headlamp and grille design, power-dome hood - with specific badging on Duramax-equipped models - and a one-piece chrome bumper (body-color bumper on Denali). SLT and Denali models feature GMC's signature C-shaped LED daytime running lamps within the headlamp housings.

The new exterior design backs up its bold, advanced styling with efficiency-enhancing functionality. Improved aerodynamics allow the trucks to slip through the air with less drag and reduced wind noise, while the new grille design supports enhanced engine-cooling performance. It enhances efficiency and ensures Sierra HD delivers optimal performance under the toughest conditions, such as towing on a mountain grade.

New inlaid doors, which fit into recesses in the bodyside, help reduce wind noise for a quieter cab, while details including like the roof and tailgate spoiler were tuned in the wind tunnel to smooth airflow over the truck for reduced noise and improved aerodynamic efficiency.

Like the 2014 Sierra 1500, a new double cab body replaces the previous extended cab. It features longer, front-hinged rear doors with outside pull handles at the rear, providing improved access in tight parking spaces. New structural B-pillars were added to add to a solid feel.

Unlike trucks with rear-hinged doors, Sierra's double cab design allows rear passengers to enter and exit the vehicle with the front doors remaining closed. Crew cabs feature resized doors, too, including longer rear doors, which also make it easier to climb in and out of the rear seat.

Approximately 67 percent of each cab is constructed with high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels, used in the A-pillars, B-pillars, rockers and roof rails, as well strategic sections on the interior structure. Ultra-high-strength steel is used in areas of the rocker panels and underbody to help improve performance in crashes.

Cargo box innovations
GMC Sierra HD models are available with 6'6" and 8' box lengths that are stronger and more durable, easier to use and offer greater cargo flexibility. The new CornerStep rear bumper - introduced on Sierra 1500 - is standard. It features integrated steps at each corner designed to accommodate large boots, with textured pads for sure-footed grip.

Sierra HD's boxes also feature four integrated cargo tie-down provisions built into the lower corners and new, standard upper tie-downs. The patented upper hooks - each rated at 250 pounds - can be placed in several locations around the upper bed rails, providing flexibility for securing loads of all shapes and sizes.
 

LED cargo box lighting is standard on SLE, SLT and Denali models. Two LED lights are mounted under the box side rails and are activated by a switch on the instrument panel, providing a light source when a tonneau cover is installed or a flashlight isn't available.

The boxes come with a two-tier loading design and offers more than four feet of loading space between the wheel houses, allowing standard 4' x 8' sheets of plywood to stack flatly on the box floor. There is also more than five feet of load space between the box walls. An available, factory-installed spray-in bed liner provides protection for the box floor and walls.

The two-tier design allows customers to insert a platform to separate items during hauling or conceal valuables below, such as power tools. It incorporates resting points at the same level as the tops of the wheel houses - enabling the platform to effectively divide the box into upper and lower sections. There are also built-in provisions for cargo bulkheads to subdivide the box even further.

A wide range of utility-enhancing accessories offered through GMC dealers makes Sierra HD cargo boxes more functional. They include tool boxes, bed liners, bed mats, box nets, ladder racks and more.

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