All posts by M.K.

Audi Q8 TFSI

At the end of 2020, Audi will present a new hybrid version of the Audi Q8 TFSI e. It’s a plug-in hybrid version of a coupe-SUV. The new model will come in a choice of two guises. The ‘standard’ Audi Q8 55 TFSI e Quattro joined by the more powerful Q8 Competition 60 TFSI e Quattro.

Audi said its European models will come standard with a S-line sports body kit, 21-inch alloy wheels, red brake calipers and Matrix LED headlights. Inside, customers get a pair of sports seats, stainless steel pedals and a 10.1-inch touch screen.

Like most plug-in hybrids, the Q8 TFSI e comes with three drive modes – Auto, Hold and Charge. The first automatically manages the powertrain’s use of combustion and electric power; the second saves the battery’s charge level for use later in the journey. The third uses the petrol engine and brake recuperation system to brim the battery on the move.

The Audi 55 TFSI e quattro combines 375 hp and 600 Nm of torque, while the more powerful Audi 60 TFSI e quattro delivers 455 hp and 700 Nm of torque. Both models can reach a maximum of 78 mph in electric mode, and quattro all-wheel drive has not changed compared to models with conventional drive. 55 TFSI e quattro from 0-60 mph accelerates in 5.8 seconds. A much stronger 60 TFSI e from 0-60 mph accelerates in 5.4 seconds. Both models reach a top speed of 150 mph.

The hybrid system contains a 17.8 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery, which is housed in the trunk. In addition to electric, hybrid and automatic driving mode, the plug-in hybrid Audi Q8 also has a so-called “hold” mode that saves battery for future use, as well as a “charge” mode that charges the battery as much as possible while driving and uses an energy recovery system that can reach up to 80 kW when braking.

Charging the battery takes two and a half hours with a capacity of 7.4 kw.

Mercedes EQC 4×4²

Following the example of the G-Class 4×4², which was produced a few years ago, the Mercedes EQC 4×4² wants to show that it is capable of making an extreme off-road vehicle with electric drive. At Mercedes, they certainly have experience with SUVs. The new Mercedes EQC 4×4² is 20 mm higher than the standard production model.

The field characteristics of the concept have been significantly improved, so that the EQC 4×4² can overcome a water obstacle with a depth of 40 cm. Further modifications include increased track widths and 20-inch wheels from the old R-class shod with rugged-looking 285/50R20 Cooper Zeon tyres. The approach angle is up by 11.2 degrees at 31.8 degrees, while the departure angle increases 13.0 degrees to 33.0 degrees.

The EQC 4×4² combines modern luxury and sustainability with emotional appeal. EQC 4×4² shows that it is possible to enjoy sustainable mobility. In this case, electromobility, high technology and intriguing experience are transferred to the mountains. Electricity and progressive luxury go off-road.

The EQC 4×4² has a new acoustic system that emits sounds outside and inside, and the sound depends on the position of the “accelerator” pedal, speed, energy return and the like.

The electric drive remained unchanged. There are two electric motors from the standard production model EQC that combine to deliver 408 hp and 762 Nm of torque, and there is also an 80kWh lithium-ion battery made up of 384 individual cells and a single-speed transmission to channel drive at each end.

The Mercedes EQC 4×4² will remain just a concept, just like the E 400 All-Terrain.

Dodge Durango

Dodge Durango. Get off the beaten path and leave the pack behind. While the others concentrate on simply being utilitarian vehicles, hone in on being a sport utility vehicle. In other words, build a Dodge Durango.

Durango goes all in with its available HEMI® V8 engine, Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Sport suspension, and an incredible amount of horsepower and torque capable of pulling an equally incredible towing rating. For good measure, Durango offers plenty of technology to keep you entertained and connected.

With more than 50 different seating configurations, there’s bound
to be more than one way to strike the perfect balance between passenger and cargo capacity. The standard 60/40 split-folding second-row reclining bench seat features a padded center armrest with cup holders. The available Fold-and-Tumble second row Captain’s Chairs include soft-touch armrests and a floor-mounted mini console with cup holders for six-passenger seating. For seating up to seven, a 50/50 splitfolding third-row seat is available. With the second- and available third-row seats folded down, there’s a cavernous 84.5 cubic feet of cargo space at your disposal.

The standard buttons on the front side of the steering wheel let you control the 7-inch Driver Information Digital Cluster Display. From here, you can view real-time information on performance, vehicle status and available navigation. Because this display is reconfigurable, you decide how you want to view and receive the information. Durango also lets you customize your climate with available Three-Zone Automatic Temperature Control (ATC). You, your front passenger and second row passengers can set the preferred temperature for each zone. ATC maintains these temperatures throughout the drive.

Dodge muscle isn’t just reserved for cars. Sometimes you want a third row and serious power. Choose Durango SRT and the two go hand in hand. The 392 HEMI® V8 engine unleashes 475 horses, 470 lb-ft of torque and delivers a 0 – 60 mph dragstrip time of 4.4 seconds. Consider the certified 12.9-second quarter-mile time by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). Durango SRT holds even more bragging rights — and that’s without even going into detail about the 8-speed Performance-tuned transmission, Sport-tuned All-Wheel Drive (AWD), high-flow dual exhaust with 4-inch outlets or the massive 295 tires on 20 by 10-inch wheels and huge Brembo® brakes.