Opel has unveiled its all-new Astra, the brand’s contender in the Golf segment.
Opel has unveiled its all-new Astra, the brand’s contender in the Golf segment. The latest version retains its predecessor’s “blade” design, but is smaller – its overall length and wheelbase are 50mm and 20mm shorter than the previous model’s. Impressively, the new Astra is up to 200kg lighter than the older one, too. Despite this automobile’s smaller size, Opel claims that cabin space has actually improved and off ers 35mm more rear legroom. Other enhancements include fewer and more intuitive controls, as well as a new IntelliLink infotainment system. Said system features a larger and snazzier touchscreen display with smartphone connectivity, thanks to its compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In addition to these goodies, the vehicle also boasts higher safety levels, with available equipment GERMAN ASTRA-NAUT such as Side Blind Spot Alert, Forward Collision Alert and Collision Imminent Braking. Astra models can also be specified with adaptive LED matrix lights.
Boosting the car’s performance are new engines that include a turbocharged 1.4-litre 4-cylinder that produces 145bhp and 250Nm, or 5bhp and 50Nm more than the current 1.4-litre turbo. According to offi cial Opel agent Auto Germany, the latest Astra will come to Singapore in the first quarter of 2016.
FIERY CHEVY
Chevrolet has unveiled its sixth-generation Camaro coupe, which is not only more powerful, but more agile and effi cient, too. The new Camaro is up to 90kg lighter than the previous model, and can now be specified with Magnetic Ride Control (SS variant only) for better handling. The rangetopping Camaro SS is the most powerful one to date – its 6.2-litre V8 (identical to the one in the Corvette) kicks out 455bhp and 617Nm
The latest version is also available with a turbocharged 2-litre inline-4 that’s good for 275bhp and 400Nm. If Chevy produces this coupe in right-hand-drive form, the Ford Mustang (which will reach Singapore in 2016) will have an American rival to contend with.
SEVENTH HEAVEN
BMW’s all-new 7 Series limousine targets IT-savvy towkays by off ering both luxury and high-tech gadgetry in equal measure. The iDrive infotainment system, for one, can now also be operated via touchscreen and hand gestures. Meanwhile, rear seat passengers can access a 7-inch tablet to control the entertainment and air-conditioning. The coolest feature is the optional Remote Control Parking function, which lets drivers remotely park the vehicle while they’re outside the car (like James Bond in Tomorrow Never Dies) using the Display Key.
The latest 7 Series also promises greater driving pleasure with its lighter weight (thanks to the use of carbon fibre in the passenger cell) and standard air suspension. And for the first time, this automobile will be available with a 2-litre engine. The 740Le features a turbocharged 2-litre paired to a plug-in hybrid powertrain – another first for this model range. BMW’s new flagship will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year.
JAZZY SHUTTLE
Honda has launched the all-new Shuttle, a compact station wagon that succeeds the popular Airwave model. Built on the Jazz platform, the car is a five-seater, but its extra length allows it to off er greater luggage capacity. With the rear seats in place, this vehicle off ers 570 litres, or 207 litres more compared to the Jazz. For added flexibility, the Shuttle’s boot also includes a 30-litre underfloor storage compartment from stain-resistant plastic that’s ideal for storing valuables or soiled articles. At press time, local agent Kah Motor has no plans to introduce the car here.
GANGNAM AUTO ART
The Hyundai Motorstudio Seoul is allowing visitors to experience its Genesis model from unique perspectives via the Ensemble exhibit. Created by Everyware artists Bang Hyun Woo and Heo Yun Sil, the deconstructed Genesis coupe is encircled by a network of miniature roads that have camera-equipped cars driving around and transmitting real-time videos to multiple screens. The exhibit runs till Sept 30, 2015.
FORCEFUL FORD MOTOR
Ford has revealed its most powerful engine ever. The naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V8, developed for the Shelby GT350 version of the Ford Mustang, generates 526bhp of horsepower and 581Nm of torque. With a redline of 8250rpm, it’s also the highest-revving production 8-cylinder in the history of Ford, whose very first V8 engines hit the streets more than 80 years ago.
GREEN DISCO
Nissan has transformed one of its all-electric NV200 commercial vans into a mobile, eco-friendly disco. Known as the Part e-Van (“party van”), it is equipped with a disco-ball solar array that helps power on-board components, an LED “dance floor” and a 6m-tall light-up canopy, along with a pair of augmentedreality screens. To keep partygoers hydrated, there’s even a cocktail maker that dispenses “electric-inspired” drinks.
DASHBOARD REDUX
Porsche Classic has recreated the dashboard for 911 models built from 1969 to 1975. While the dashboard’s colour, look and feel are close to the original version, the materials used in this “new old” one are supposedly better able to withstand heat and humidity. The classic dashboard costs US$1353 ($1824) – shipping, taxes and installation costs not included.
FOUR-RINGED FOOTWEAR
Audi USA is off ering customers who purchase/ lease a brand new or certified pre-owned Audi model the chance to own a specially designed pair of Tom’s Alpargata shoes. Said shoes feature red stitching on the exterior, as well as a monogrammed lining with the carmaker’s logo.
