The 2021 Volkswagen Golf Hot Hatch Comes in Three Flavors

Volkswagen has finally lifted the covers off the hot hatch version of its all-new Mk. 8 Golf, and it comes in three flavors: gasoline, plug-in hybrid, and even diesel. Meet the 2021 Golf GTI, GTE, and GTD.

Taking the standard Golf as a starting point, Volkswagen has given the GTI, GTE, and GTD their own unique appearance. All are sportier and more menacing than the compact hatchback, using elements such as front fog lights that seem to blend into the honeycomb pattern of the lower grille. 17-inch rims are standard, but 18s and 19s are also on offer. Oh, and despite its similarities with each other, they carry unique design detail that set each one apart. For example, a narrow strip near the hood denotes whether it’s a GTI (red), GTE (blue), or GTD (silver). The same goes for the rear end, where the GTI gets one tailpipe on the left and right, the GTD gets two on the left, and the GTE with no visible tailpipe.

Inside, all three hotted Golf models receive the 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit and a 10-inch infotainment system. For the driver, there’s a sport’s steering wheel with touch controls and configurable ambient lighting. Oh, and as a nod to Golf GTIs of yesteryear, the checkered design is still present. Now called “Scalepaper,” all models start with a gray and black motif, but the GTI adds red; the GTE, blue; and the GTD light gray.

Powering the all-new Golf GTI is an evolved version of the tried-and-tested 2.0-liter EA888. In this guise, it now gets 245 horsepower and 370 Nm of torque. Power is routed either via a 6-speed manual or a drive-by-wire 7-speed dual clutch.

Meanwhile, for the GTE, it pairs a 150 horsepower 1.4-liter TSI gasoline engine with a 114 horsepower electric motor. This is good for a combined 245 horsepower, while torque rises to 400 Nm. Oh, and thanks to a 13 kWh battery, it can be driven at speeds up to 130 km/h in full electric mode.

Finally, there’s the GTD which debuts Volkswagen’s cleanest diesel ever. The 2.0-liter TDI engine here generates 200 horsepower, but maximum torque is at 400 Nm of torque. For this version, Volkswagen is offering it only with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Regardless of model, the Golf GTI/GTD/GTE offers handling improvements thanks to its Vehicle Dynamics Manager. With three settings, Comfort, Eco, and Sport, the system controls both controls the electronic differential lock (XDS) system as well as dampers.

Sadly, when asked whether the Philippines will get the Golf Mk. 8, Volkswagen Philippines replied that there is currently no plan to bring it in. Hopefully, that’ll change even if it’s just a limited run model.

Honda Just Gave the Jazz an SUV-Like Makeover

Understanding that crossovers have a broader appeal nowadays, Honda has come up with an SUV-inspired version of the all-new Jazz. Called the Jazz Crosstar, it comes with features that make it better suited for those who aspire to live “active lifestyles.”

Taking the all-new Jazz as a starting point, the Jazz Crosstar adds its own unique suspension that raises the ground clearance to a comfortable 160 mm (from the regular Jazz’s 135 mm).

After that, it gets some SUV-like design cues like substantial scratch-resistant black plastic all around the lower part—bumpers, side sills, and doors. It also gets wheel arch extensions, a more formal grille, and roof rails for good measure. The changes are capped off by thicker 185/60R16 tires fitted on unique wheels for the Jazz Crosstar. Further complementing its positioning as an SUV, it even gets water-repellant fabric seats.

Apart from the raised ride height, the Jazz Crosstar is still pretty much the Jazz inside and out. For that, the same engine options remain: the L13B engine (98 horsepower, 118 Nm of torque) or the LEB-H5 gasoline-electric hybrid (109 horsepower, 253 Nm of torque). Interestingly enough, this cutesy SUV-ish hatchback comes with all-wheel drive as an option.

The best news is that the Jazz Crosstar won’t just be a Japan market exclusive. It’s been confirmed to go on sale in global markets such as Europe. Currently, it’s still too early to tell whether ASEAN countries such as the Philippines will get this SUV-inspired Jazz. However, it’s worth noting that it does come with a hefty 290,400-Yen (~ P 135,000) premium over the regular Jazz.

Do you think it’s worth it for Honda to bring it to ASEAN, and are you willing to pay that much premium to just these SUV-like features?

Is Hyundai Making a High-Performance All Electric Vehicle?

Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design philosophy is coming to EVs, and it’ll be previewed by the Prophecy which will be shown in full at the upcoming Geneva International Motor Show.

The new concept is accentuated by curves flowing over the broad rear blanks with a boat-tail line, created by the rear quarter panels, complemented by an integrated spoiler and pixel lamp taillights.

“‘Prophecy’ does not follow trends. It accentuates timeless beauty that will stand the test of time,” said SangYup Lee, Head of Hyundai Global Design Center. “ Its iconic design stands to expand Hyundai’s design spectrum toward even broader horizons.”

The name “Prophecy” reflects the concept’s purpose, defining the direction of future Hyundai designs, while establishing itself as a design icon for Hyundai’s EV lineup.

Hyundai's Off Hunting Civics with the 2020 i30

Hyundai is off to hunt Honda Civics (at least in Europe) with the i30. The Korean carmaker’s compact car has been updated with a new design, better connectivity features, and an available 1.5-liter turbocharged engine.

Available in three body styles—hatchback, fastback, and wagon, the biggest change to the i30 is with its exterior design. The front takes a cue from the Sonata with its wider, accentuated grille. Sandwiching it are slimmer headlights with LED technology and V-shaped LED DRLs. The same lighting tech is found in the back, while a new bumper design there was developed specifically to improve aerodynamic performance. The sportier N Line ups the ante with an even wider grille upfront, and a built-in diffuser in the bumper out back.

Inside, the i30 receives more modern…air vents. Yeah. That’s it.

For 2020, the i30 gets a new 7-inch digital cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. What’s more, wireless phone mirroring will be arriving later.

For engines, the i30 is powered by a 1.0-liter turbocharged engine with 120 horsepower. Moving up, there’s a 136 horsepower 1.6-liter diesel with a mild hybrid system. Finally, there’s the 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine making 160 horsepower also with mild hybrid technology. All engines are available in either manual (6-speed) or automatic (7-speed dual clutch) flavors.

The enhancements are capped off by improvements to Hyundai’s SmartSense advanced safety package. This includes lane follow assist, rear collision-avoidance assist, and leading vehicle departure alert.

The 2021 Kia Sorento Will Have Diesel Power Paired to a Dual Clutch Transmission

Kia’s using the weeks leading up to the Geneva Motor Show to reveal more details about its 2021 Sorento. After showing off the design, the Korean automaker’s confirmed some details on the platform and engines as well.

The 2021 Sorento uses a brand-new platform that increases its overall wheelbase, while reducing the space dedicated to the engine bay and overhangs. Not only does this move result in a more dramatic design, but it also improves its overall ride and handling.

The overall length has been extended by 10 mm more than its predecessor, while the wheelbase is up 35 mm to 2,815 mm. The cabin now provides more room than in many other competitor SUVs, while intelligent packaging means the Sorento will also offer class-leading cargo space.

The smaller engine bay also results in downscaled engines for the all-new Sorento.

The top-of-the-line model will receive a combination of turbo and hybrid power. This new Smartstream Turbo Hybrid pairs a 1.6-liter direct injected turbo engine with a 60-horsepower electric motor for a combined 230 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. And since the platform’s been designed to accommodate a hybrid set-up, the 1.49-kWh battery pack can be located beneath the passenger cell, with no impact on cabin or luggage space.

For diesel lovers, you’ll be glad to know that the Sorento will receive a brand-new 2.2-liter Smartstream diesel engine. Producing 202 horsepower and 440 Nm of torque, this engine is paired with a new 8-speed wet-type dual clutch automatic. So far, this engine’s been confirmed only for the Korean domestic and European markets only.

That said, Kia says additional powertrains will be announced in future, including a plug-in hybrid variant.

In addition to its new platform and powertrains, the Sorento implements a range of high-tech safety and convenience features, differentiating it further from other midsize SUVs. This includes Kia’s first Multi-collision Brake system, which enables the Sorento to mitigate the severity of secondary collisions.

It automatically applies vehicle brakes when the airbags have been deployed after an initial collision, further protecting occupants from secondary frontal or side impacts. The Multi-collision Brake system will be available depending on market with a total of eight airbags to further enhance collision safety, including front seat center side airbags and knee airbags.

The 2021 Kia Sorento will make its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Should the All-New 2020 Hyundai i20 Worry the Honda Jazz?

Hyundai’s bringing its Sensuous Sportiness to the sub-compact class with the all-new i20. Representing the model’s most ambitious design yet, it comes packed with cutting-edge connectivity features and the most comprehensive safety package in its class. Should the Honda Jazz and Mazda2 worry?

Compared to the previous i20, the all-new model has been made more dynamic, while still keeping its urban-maneuverability intact. Its visual stance is improved by its lowered roof (-24mm), wider body (+30mm), and increased length (+5mm), while the wheelbase has also been increased by +10mm.

The all-new i20’s design is wedge-like, with a unique lighting signature that connects the sides and the rear. Ten colors are available, including the option of a two-tone look.

Inside, they’ve gone for a rather unconventional look by making it look wide thanks to the horizontal “blades” that cover the high dashboard design. Color accents are also matched throughout the interior, too. Meanwhile, the steering wheel gains toggle switches, while passengers will love the new LED ambient lighting.

The i20 aims for class-leading connectivity, and for that, it gains a new 10.25-inch digital cluster and 10.25-inch center touchscreen which have been visually combined. The center touchscreen also offers split-screen functionality for multitasking.

Designed for Europe, the Hyundai i20 will be available with just two engines. The entry-level model gets a 1.2-liter MPI 4-cylinder engine making 84 horsepower mated to a 5-speed manual. Moving up, there’s a 1.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection engine mated to a 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain. In this guise, it makes either 100 or 120 horsepower depending on the variant.

The 48-volt system contributes to a 3 to 4 percent reduction of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. In terms of transmission, the 48-volt system is available with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission (7DCT) or a newly developed six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT). iMT decouples the engine from the transmission after the driver releases the accelerator, allowing the car to enter into coasting mode and saving fuel.

More than just power, thanks to its 4 percent weight reduction, the all-new i20 is more economical without compromising on its driving dynamics.

The i20 also gains Hyundai’s SmartSense driver assist suite, and with that, complies with Europe’s highest safety standards. This includes Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Lane Following Assist, Blind-spot Collision-avoidance Assist Warning, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, and even Parking Assist.

It will be officially unveiled at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show in March.

Toyota Teases its Yaris-based SUV

After the sketch, comes the teaser. Toyota’s new Yaris-based SUV is almost upon us, but before then, they’ve released the world’s first glimpse into their yet-unnamed crossover.

Based on the Yaris’s GA-B platform, Toyota’s new global architecture for small cars, this new “B-SUV” blends Toyota’s “extensive small car experience with enviable SUV heritage.”

Design-wise, not much can be deciphered about this new B-SUV, but it doesn’t appear to simply be a Yaris on stilts. It looks to gain its own unique skin complete with these tasty new LED taillights. What is for certain is that the all-new B-SUV will feature Toyota’s hybrid powertrain and will be available with an intelligent all-wheel drive system.

Size-wise, this new SUV is expected to slot below the C-HR, but is said to be roomier and more practical. More details will come out when it makes its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Kia's Had Enough of Leaks and Teasers, Releases Images of All-New 2021 Sorento SUV

Kia Motors has revealed the first official images of the All-New Kia Sorento today, ahead of its first public appearance at the 2020 Geneva International Motor Show in a few weeks time.

The concept of ‘refined boldness’ inspired Kia’s designers, who sought to maintain the robust, tough-looking aesthetic of earlier generations of Sorento, while applying a greater degree of refinement and elegance. More stylish than ever, the Sorento’s redefined design incorporates sharper lines and uninterrupted surfaces, making it noticeably more sculpted than its more round-edged predecessor. With more contemporary geometric details and swept-back, elongated proportions, the result is a more confident, more mature and more desirable design than ever.

The assertive ‘face’ of the Sorento evolves, too, with a new interpretation of Kia’s hallmark ‘tiger nose’ grille. Wider and more expansive, it wraps organically around the integrated headlamps on each side. The headlamps themselves feature a new ‘tiger eye’ LED daytime running light, adding extra focus to the design by depicting the intense impression of the lines around a tiger’s eyes.

In profile, the proportions of the Sorento are subtly adapted to make it appear longer, with shorter front and rear overhangs and a longer wheelbase. Its new proportions also extend the length of the bonnet, drawing the A-pillar 30 mm further back from the front axle for a more ‘cab-rearward’ design. The trailing edge of the hood wraps around the front wings and turns into a single, strong character line which extends along the side of the Sorento and flows into the new vertical taillights.

The Sorento sits at the heart of Kia’s reinvigorated global SUV line-up, which also includes the Seltos, Stonic, Sportage, and Telluride. The new model is the result of a collaborative effort between all three studios within Kia’s global design network, in Korea, Europe and North America. The fourth-generation model is based on an all-new platform, raising standards in the midsize SUV segment for space, practicality, efficiency and quality.

Diesels Aren't Dead as Volkswagen is Set to Release High-Performance Golf GTD

The demise of diesel has been greatly exaggerated. Despite investing a large chunk of its product development on electric vehicles, Volkswagen has also announced that its eight-generation Golf is still getting a high-performance diesel. The Golf GTD will make its official global debut this March.

The Golf GTD is said to have Volkswagen’s cleanest diesel yet thanks to its twin-dosing Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and double AdBlue exhaust treatment. VW hasn’t released any official power figures yet, but it’s said to have more power and torque than its predecessor. The previous Golf GTD had 181 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque and was mated to either a 6-speed manual or dual clutch (DSG) gearbox.

More than just sheer grunt, the Golf GTD will exhibit the “same dynamic concept” as the Golf GTI Mk 1 and promises to have improved responsiveness over the previous Golf GTD. It’s also said to be more economical and cleaner than ever.