Top 5 Car launches by Prominent Automakers at 2016 NAIAS

MANILA: The 2016 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) has witnessed a wide range of cars offered for the first time in different segments. The auto Show also revealed some latest super cars including the production line up debut of previously previewed concept models. As we understand the curiosity of Philippines market, the Filipinos are expecting to see the top models running on their roads by this year. The automakers have delivered a wide variety of vehicles that are robust and performance driven. These versions have also been customised according to the needs of the young buyers in the global market. This 2016 Detroit Auto show has come up with something fresh and splendid. During the 2016 Consumer Electronics show (CES) held at Las Vegas, we saw some major auto manufacturers like BMW, Ford, and Volvo showcasing the latest technologies and future platform based concept cars. These innovations and tech sharing has shown a brief idea about the future of the automobile sector. So, we are taking a close look on the models that have been previewed at the 2016 NAIAS.

KIA FORTE SEDAN & KIA FORTE5 HATCHBACK

Kia has revealed the new Forte sedan at this year’s NAIAS, equipped with re-profiled front fascia and technology. It also gets new front bumper with a tiger nose alike grill. The rear part also holds new taillights and tweaked exhaust pipes. The interior also comes with heated front seats stitched with premium leather. The dash panel is installed with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, Smart key with push-button start. It is powered by the latest 2.0-litre Atkinson engine, paired to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Meanwhile, the Kia Forte5 hatchback looks sporty and elegant. It gets a tiger nose grill along with sweptback headlamps plus LED DRLs. The interior is similar to the sedan version but the top variant gets orange coloured seats. Moreover, the SX trim comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, and distinguished front and rear profile. The 7-inch infotainment system is also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 2017 Forte5 is powered by a 2.0-litre GDI four-cylinder engine, mated with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. However, the SX trim has got a 1.6-litre turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine, mated with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. However, the automaker has not revealed the power rating of the models yet. Know more about these two variants, which suits best to your personality.

Audi A4 allroad Quattro

The Audi A4 allroad Quattro has been unveiled at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show. Basically, it seems like a rugged version of A4 Avant. The front profile gets sharp headlamps, chrome-plated grill, and an aggressive bumper. The body stands on 17-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels with an additional ground clearance of 34mm. The interior is equipped with latest Multi Media Interface (MMI) controller along with efficient smartphone and wireless connectivity. It has been offered in one gasoline trim and five diesel engine variants. The expected power output is about 276 PS. The engine comes mated to either 6-speed manual, 8-speed Tiptronic, or 7-speed S Tronic transmission.

Audi h-Tron Quattro concept

Audi brings in the h-Tron Quattro concept, which is installed with latest driving technology and features. Audi has been experimenting the use of hydrogen as an efficient fuel alternative for gasoline and diesel, and it seems that the automaker has got it this time. Yes, it’s true! The h-Tron Quattro concept comes with a hybrid powertrain, powered by hydrogen too. The automaker has installed three hydrogen filled tanks beneath the car, filled under 700 bar pressure. The company claims that the amount is capable to make the car travel upto 600 kms. The refuelling can be done in less than 5 minutes, and the fuel cell and the battery system delivers a maximum power output of 90 kW (122 PS), while the rear part churns out 140 kW (190 PS). The peak torque output remains 550 Nm with a top speed of 200 km/h. The exterior is totally aerodynamic and fluidic, in order to lessen the air friction. The h-Tron Quattro concept is also powered by a solar roof panel that contributes about 320 watts.

KIA Telluride concept

Kia has previewed its Telluride few days back but now, the automaker has officially revealed the Telluride concept SUV at the 2016 Detroit show. It comes with a bold exterior and gets amazing technology installation within the dashboard. The front fascia gets a tiger nose grille along with a skid plate along the bumper. The SUV stands on large 22-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. The rear also gets L-shaped tail lights that adds extra beauty to it. The cabin also gets gesture control features that can be operated through the touch-sensitive band mounted above the second row seats. The Telluride concept is powered by a plug-in hybrid system that features a 3.5-litre GDI V6 engine and a powerful electric motor. The engine delivers a combined maximum power output of 400 PS, while the V6 engine produces 270 PS. However, Kia has not mentioned about the introduction of its production model.

2017 Honda Ridgeline

After releasing the first teaser of the pickup few days back, Honda finally launched 2017 Ridgeline in 2016 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The ridgeline is based on the modern technology and the automakers claims to challenge the conventional pickup vehicles in the segment. According to Honda, the chassis is built from the Global Light Truck platform, which is also lightweight and offers amazing comfort level while driving. The automaker also claims that the 2017 Ridgeline offers generous and sophisticated interior space. It comes equipped with 8-inch full-HD TFT touchscreen display compatible with Apple CarPlay and android Auto.

It is powered by a 3.5-litre Earth Dreams V6 engine with direct injection fuel transmission. The engine is paired to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. However, Honda hasn’t revealed the power outputs but assured that it will be highly efficient. The pickup is also equipped with an array of safety features such as Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, and Road Departure Alert. Honda has also installed a multi rear-view camera and Blind Spot Information System, which shall be available for top variants.

Furthermore, the 2016 NAIAS will last until January, 24, 2016. We will witness more reveals from the automakers. We are also eager to know more about the future announcements by the prominent automobile companies. We hope to see the new vehicles reaching Philippines shores by the end of this year.

Recommended: Latest Technologies offered by prominent automakers at CES 2016