All posts by Francis Mitterrand

Hybrid

2024 Mazda 2 Hybrid

The Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer presented the Mazda 2 Hybrid, which looks similar to the Toyota Yaris. This is the fourth generation of this model from the B segment, which is actually a “copy” of the Toyota model.

The new Mazda 2 will be available to European customers from next year, and it brings a different front bumper and radiator grille, five revised equipment packages: Prime, Centre, Exclusive, Homura and Homura Plus, as well as an additional body color (Glass blue).

The basic equipment package includes keyless unlocking, a USB-C connector and a multimedia system that is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay applications. Richer equipment packages include 16 and 17-inch aluminum wheels, multi-speaker audio system, front and rear parking sensors, LED lights, dual-zone air conditioning, larger multimedia display, panoramic roof, etc.

When it comes to the powertrain, the Mazda 2 is powered by a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor with a total power of 116 hp (85 kW). That’s enough power to propel this small city car to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 9.7 seconds with a top speed of 175 km/h (109 mph). According to WLTP norms, the average fuel consumption is 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers.

Source: Mazda

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2024 Mazda 2 Hybrid
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2024 Škoda Kodiaq

The premiere of the new generation Škoda Kodiaq is approaching, and the Czech car manufacturer has revealed what the new SUV will look like.

“The all-new Kodiaq is stylish and dynamic with a strikingly distinctive look. In accordance with the principle ‘form follows function’, we have implemented the first elements of our future design language, Modern Solid. The design clearly emphasizes practicality while at the same time providing even better aerodynamics through its dynamic shape,” said Oliver Stefani, director of Škoda Design.

The new Kodiaq is bigger in size than its predecessor and provides more space for passengers, a recognizable front part. It is equipped with square wheel arches under which are 17- to 20-inch wheels, a new hood, a solid rear bumper, a wide C-shaped light signature that stretches towards the middle and the second generation of TOP LED Matrix headlights with crystal design elements are just a few from the elements that adorn the new generation of this SUV.

Škoda hasn’t revealed what powertrain the new Kodiaq will use, so we’ll have to wait for the official premiere next week.

The world premiere will be broadcast live on Škoda Storyboard as well as on Škoda’s YouTube channel on October 4, 2023 at 18:45 CEST.

Source: Škoda

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2024 Škoda Kodiaq
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2024 BMW 530e and 550e xDrive

Earlier this year, BMW presented the new generation of the Series 5, which for the first time comes as a fully electric model. Now, two plug-in drive options with a mild 48-volt hybrid system and all-wheel drive are coming to market, the 530e and 550e xDrive.

The 530e is powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder turbo gasoline engine that, in combination with the hybrid system (eDrive), develops 299 hp (220 kW) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of peak torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.3 seconds with a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph), and has a range of 103 km.

The more powerful 550e xDrive is powered by a 3.0L in-line six-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor with a total power of 489 hp (360 kW) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. It reaches 62mph (100 km/h) in 4.3 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Both models are equipped with a 19.4 kWh battery, which can be charged at chargers or recharged while driving. According to WLTP norms, the average gasoline consumption in both cases is from 0.6 to one liter per 100 kilometers, and in a situation where only the electric motor is used, the top speed is 140 km/h.

When it comes to price, the 530e costs 65,300 euros, while the more powerful 550e xDrive costs 77,300 euros.

Source: BMW

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2024 BMW 530e and 550e xDrive