#29 All-New Kia Sorento – Stylish, practical and sophisticated

When the Kia Sorento first appeared, it featured a traditional body-on-frame design that provided a level of ruggedness not typically found on crossover SUVs. Blessed with above-average off-roading and towing abilities, the first-generation Sorento won respect for its practical nature. It also boasted impressive value, offering the dimensions of a midsize SUV at a compact-crossover price point.

All-New Kia Sorento 

However, the original Kia Sorento was clearly out of sync with the crossover craze. This is because most consumers want the more fuel-efficient and better handling qualities a carlike architecture provides. Hence when Kia launched the second generation Sorento it featured a unibody architecture and car like comforts.

Kia Cross GT Concept 

Though it was slightly more expensive than its predecessor, the second generation Kia Sorento was roomy, refined, had third row seats and one of the best warranty coverage on the midsize SUV segment. The great qualities found in the second generation model are carried over to the recently released third generation Kia Sorento. The all-new Kia Sorento features a premium look and feel blended with more space and numerous innovative features.

First generation Sorento 

Design

The design tweaks highlight the all-new Kia Sorento’s sleek profile while creating a stylish appearance and ensuring the midsize SUV has a bolder on-the-road presence. The front of the all-new Kia Sorento incorporates long, wrap-around headlamps and more prominent fog-lamps, as well as a larger, more upright ‘tiger-nose’ grille, with a distinctive three-dimensional diamond pattern, first featured on the Kia Cross GT concept.

Sleek profile 

In profile, the new model retains the Sorento’s hallmark long bonnet and characteristic wide D-pillar, but a lower roofline, higher beltline and swept-back shape give the midsize SUV a more dramatic, muscular stance. The rear of the car features new LED tail lamps, more prominent ‘shoulders’ and a highly sculpted registration plate surround.

Second generation model 

Performance

Five engines are available with the all-new Kia Sorento, depending on market, offering power outputs ranging from 126 kW (169 hp) to 198 kW (266 hp). The fully-independent suspension retains the format of the outgoing model (MacPherson Struts at the front and Kia’s multi-link system at the rear), but features a range of modifications.

Updated 2012 model 

At the front, a new electric motor-driven power steering system (R-MDPS) provides greater steering feel and quicker response. At the rear, the larger shock absorbers are now mounted vertically improving body control motion. These changes, together with the longer wheelbase, deliver a more accommodating ride making the all-new Kia Sorento a comfortable place to spend time on longer journeys.

New infotainment system 

Interior  

Inside the all-new Kia Sorento is where some of the most significant improvements are to be found. Kia’s designers have created a more sophisticated and luxurious interior, featuring significantly higher quality materials.

Comfortable front seats 

The styling of the interior follows a ‘modern and wide’ theme, providing the interior with a stable, horizontal layout and appearance. This width is resonated with the wider instrument cluster, interior garnish and the wrap-around shape of the dashboard which extends into the door trims.

Wide themed cockpit 

A higher proportion of soft-touch materials and leather creates a modern luxury feel to the interior and giving the all-new Kia Sorento a premium feel. Compared to the previous-generation model, the increased exterior dimensions and the extended wheelbase have liberated additional space in the interior of the midsize SUV.

Although the roofline is 15 mm lower, repositioned seat cushions ensure increased headroom for occupants in all three rows, who will also enjoy greater legroom. Available in 5- or 7-seat versions, the all-new Kia Sorento features 40/20/40 second row split folding for improved versatility. Boot volume increases from 515 to 605 litres with the third row seats folded up.

Striking rear 

Verdict

The Kia Sorento continues to be the spacious, practical and comfortable SUV many have come to love. The improved design, luxurious interior and the reduced interior noise make the third generation Kia Sorento an ideal SUV for larger families. 

#31 Land Rover Discovery Sport – The strikingly refined compact crossover

The launch of the all-new Land Rover Discovery Sport marks the end of the Freelander. As we all know the Freelander was Land Rover’s first compact crossover. Since its introduction in 1997, the Land Rover Freelander continued to be one of the best-selling four-wheel-drive vehicles in the world.

Land Rover Discovery Sport

Why is the new model called the Discovery Sport? This is because Land Rover converted the Discovery to an entire family of new vehicles. This will follow existing convention at the company, where the Range Rover Sport sits alongside the larger range-topping Range Rover model. The Discovery Sport borrows its inspiration from the Vision Concept. Being the first member of the Land Rover Discovery family, the Sport offers a dynamic design with a compact footprint and seven-passenger seating in a ‘5+2’ configuration.

Discover Vision Concept 

Striking looks

The Land Rover Discovery Sport's proportions put the wheels out at the corners, contributing to both a low centre of gravity and a ‘planted’ stance. Aside from the overall shape, details including a clamshell hood and distinctive two-bar grille with hexagonal mesh connect it to its' Land Rover identity. Large outboard air intakes and LED fog lamps are visible on the front bumper.

Land Rover Freelander 

The slim, wraparound headlamps are reminiscent of designs used on Range Rover vehicles. Round daytime-running lights (DRLs) are punctuated at four equal intervals to represent the points of a compass. Halogen headlamps and DRLs are standard, and available trim upgrades include Xenon headlamps and LEDs (light emitting diodes) for the DRLs.

Striking front design 

The tail lamp design echoes the headlamps' slim, wraparound design. The roofline slants downward towards the rear to create a dramatic profile. The C-pillar leans forward toward the gloss-black window surrounds, allowing for an optional contrast roof design.

Powerful headlamps 

At the rear of the Land Rover Discovery Sport, the spoiler features inner extensions that improve aerodynamic efficiency. The spoiler features an advanced LED light-pipe technology, which creates a slender and elegant ribbon of light. Five distinctive alloy wheel designs are available with Silver or Gloss Black finishes.

Wedge shaped profile 

Great performance

The Land Rover Discovery gets its power from the same turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine found in the Range Rover Evoque. The 2.0-litre power unit churns out 178 kW (240 hp) and 340 Nm of torque. Paired with the 2.0-litre unit is nine-speed automatic transmission. The transmission uses closely spaced gear ratios to provide seamless response and powerful mid-range acceleration.

Great off-road companion 

A rotary gearshift controller rises silently from the centre console when the engine is started. Steering wheel paddle shifters offer complete driver control for manual gear selection. The electric power-assisted steering system (EPAS) has been tuned for excellent handling on the road. The Land Rover Discovery Sport is equipped with vented 12.8-inch front and 11.8-inch rear disc brakes, providing reassuring stopping power.

Large panoramic sunroof 

Off-road abilities

With all-wheel-drive traction and long-travel suspension for excellent articulation, the Discovery Sport provides impressive all-terrain performance. The Discovery Sport can scale gradients of up to 45 degrees. In extreme situations the lower trim on the front bumper can be removed to increase the approach angle. Land Rover’s Terrain Response maximizes the capability of the Discovery Sport in challenging conditions.

Fog lamps integrated to the air intakes 

Controlled through an intuitive interface on the centre console, Terrain Response is designed to precisely tailor the crossover's steering, throttle response, gearbox and braking and stability systems to the demands of the terrain. Terrain Response features four settings: General; Grass/Gravel/Snow (for slippery conditions on- and off-road); Mud and Ruts, and Sand.

Two bar grille 

Luxurious interior

The Land Rover Discovery Sport is design to cater for large families. The raised front seats offer the driver a commanding view of the road. In a theme similar to Range Rover models, the front cabin design uses the strong vertical lines of the centre console and the slimmer horizontal elements of the instrument panel to create a striking elegant look.

Luxurious cockpit 

A prominent centre console groups all controls logically. Behind the three-spoke, multi-function steering wheel is an easy-to-read instrument cluster, with twin analogue dials set deeply into cylindrical housings to shield them from glare.

Innovative infotainment system 

A 5-inch colour TFT display, positioned between the main dials, presents key data such as fuel levels, gear position, coolant temperature and Terrain Response modes. Upper trim levels feature twin-needle-stitched leather on the upper part of the instrument panel and door surfaces. Configurable mood lighting, controlled via the central 8-inch touch screen, enhances interior ambience.

Spacious interior 

Innovative entertainment

The standard infotainment system uses an 8-inch touchscreen display with 800x480 pixel resolution for an easy and intuitive user experience. The driver can monitor and control a wide range of functions by using drag, scroll or swipe gestures, similar to a smartphone.

Seven seats layout 

The Discovery Sport will be available with two audio systems; a 10-speaker system and an 11-speaker upgrade version (including subwoofer). Land Rover has equipped the Discovery Sport with up to four 12V power points. There are also as many as six USB charging sockets, allowing multiple electronic devices to be recharged simultaneously.

A worthy successor to the Freelander 

Verdict

The Land Rover Discovery Sport is a worthy successor to the Freelander. The compact crossover’s great design combined with classic Land Rover off-road dynamics make it a must have choice. The Land Rover Discovery Sport is bound to be one of the best-selling luxury compact crossovers in the world just like the Freelander. This is certainly the new age of Discovery. 

#33 2014 Volvo S80 – Tweaked and more refined

The Volvo S80 has always been the alternative choice among luxury saloons. Through two generations, Volvo's largest saloon has dismissed outright luxury and serious performance in favour of cutting-edge safety features and in-cabin technology. The second generation was great in its own way. Its cabin was airy, spacious and offered just about the highest levels of comfort in the business. Evidently, Volvo is happy with the image of the outgoing S80, because the latest version looks very similar.

2014 Volvo S80 

Design

A number of new exterior design cues reinforce the sophisticated contemporary presence of the 2014 Volvo S80. The new front and rear bumpers create a 'stretched' effect to make it look wider and lower. New rectangular Daytime Running Lights at the front give the S80 nose a more contemporary look, while the rounded off classic Volvo lights at the rear visually pull the car down to the ground. The 2014 Volvo S80 can be fitted with expressive 19-inch wheels without loss of comfort. The headlamps feature a new Active High Beam Control system, which actively dips the headlights when another car approaches from the opposite direction. This helps reduce dazing to other drivers. At the rear of 2014 Volvo S80 are signature LED lights give the car a clearly identifiable look especially at night.

S80's profile 

Performance

The 2014 Volvo S80 comes fitted with host of power units, mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. First on the list is a reengineered four-cylinder D2 diesel with an output of 85 kW (115 hp). The power unit rewards the driver with an impressive fuel consumption of 4.1-litres/100km. The automatic D3 101 kW (136 hp) and D4 121 kW (163 hp) diesel power units of the 2014 Volvo S80 use 4.9 litres of fuel to cover the same distance.

Luxurious cockpit 

For petrol lovers, the Volvo S80 can be ordered with a 1.6-litre GTDi (Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection) 134 kW (180 hp) T4 power unit. Paired with the six-speed automatic gearbox the T4 has fuel a consumption of 7.1-litres/100 km. The car’s dynamic handling capabilities are attributed to a three new chassis types. There is Comfort, Lowered Sport Chassis and Four-C (Continuously Controlled Chassis Concept).

Supportive front seats 

Safety

A new IntelliSafe active safety system is fitted to all Volvo S80 models, in the entire range. The system is active from speed of 50 km/h and above. A Pedestrian Detection system, with full auto brake, monitors pedestrians walking in the Saloon’s path. A Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) uses radars to monitors vehicles approaching the car at a range of up to 70 meters behind the car. It then warns the driver of any vehicle that is approaching the car from the blind spot. Cross Traffic Alert uses radar sensors at the rear end of the car to alert the driver to crossing traffic from the sides when reversing out of a parking space. This is especially helpful in tight and crowded areas where the side view may be restricted.

Plenty of head and legroom at the back 

Interior

Inside the 2014 Volvo S80 is a new Ambient Light feature that enhances driving at night. It illuminates key features such as cup holders, door releases, seat controls, and luggage and storage areas. Cars equipped with the automatic gearbox also feature a new gearshift knob with piano-black inlay. To give drivers in cold climate extra comfort; three-spoke steering wheels can now be specified with electric heating. Cars with automatic transmission can get paddle shifters that give the driver the opportunity to shift gear manually with both hands on the wheel. There is plenty of room for five occupants. The front seats have a sporty design while the outer rear seats are also noticeably sculpted, to offer greater comfort and support. The rear seats can fold down to boost rear storage space.

Restyled rear lights with LEDs 

Verdict

There are plenty of premium-brand saloons that feel more upscale than the Volvo S80. Yet the Volvo S80 is certainly one of the safest cars money can buy. It also boasts some of the industry's most supportive seats. For luxury saloon buyers whose tastes diverge from the mainstream, the Volvo S80 is an interesting car to consider. 

#26 3rd Gen Mazda 6 Saloon – Styled to stand out

With a few well-established brands dominating the midsize saloon segment, and numerous likable competitors trying to unseat them, it's tough for any particular car to stand out. But the Mazda 6 has something most competitors don't; charisma. While just about any car in this segment will get the job done, the Mazda 6 manages to engage the driver in the process. This was particularly true of the first-generation 6, which had a relatively compact, European-size footprint and sporty suspension tuning that gave the car a remarkably nimble feel. For the third-generation 6, Mazda enlarged the dimensions while still retaining much of the original model's handling panache.

3rd Gen Mazda 6 

Design

The third generation Mazda 6 design follows the brand’s KODO - Soul of Motion" design language visible on all new models. In the front view, the 'signature grill', which is the hallmark of Mazda family face design, gives the front an aggressive touch. The bonnet creases extend from the tips of the signature grille and flow into the body character lines. Three character lines dominate the side view. Large 19-inch diameter wheels create a feeling of unshakable stability. The rear view displays stability through the well balanced proportions of the wedged body, prominent rear fender and compact cabin. For the head lights, signature LED luminescence and halo ring light guides are adopted for the first time in a Mazda mass production car.

Striking headlight 

Performance

Powering the third generation Mazda 6 is a choice of two petrol power units: SKYACTIV-G 2.0 and SKYACTIV-G 2.5. SKYACTIV-G 2.0 equipped models offer abundant torque characteristics at low engine speeds enabling acceleration that precisely matches the driver's intention in various driving situations. The maximum torque is 210 Nm while the maximum output is 110 kW (147 hp). The SKYACTIV-G 2.5 delivers a maximum torque of 256 Nm.

Powertrain and chassis 

The maximum output is 141 kW (189 hp). The balance shaft contributes to the mitigation of engine vibration and low noise output. The SKYACTIV-G 2.0 comes with the 6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission or the 6-speed SKYACTIV-MT gear box. The SKYACTIV-G 2.5 is combined with the SKYACTIV-Drive transmission. Precise and nimble driving performance is supported by both SKYACTIV-Drive, designed to control driving force and gear speed linearly in response to acceleration pedal input, and SKYACTIV-MT offering a light and crisp shift feel.

LEDs at the rear lights 

Ride

The saloon rides on the finely tuned SKYACTIV-Chassis. The chassis delivers agile driving performance in low to mid-speed ranges and stability in high-speed driving. The chassis is paired to robust SKYACTIV-Body that uses ultra-high tensile steel. This not only makes it lighter, but also improves the overall rigidity of the body. The car comes with a column-type, electric power assist, steering system. This offers precise control, straight-line stability and prevents steering pull on rough road surfaces.

Cockpit 

Interior

The driver-oriented cockpit offers generous space. The passenger side space provides a sense of both openness and safety with the decorative horizontal line extending through the center panel to the air-conditioning louvers as well as with the encircling form of the dash. Soft materials are used for areas frequently touched such as the door trim and the upper part of the instrument panel. A swivel wheel is logically placed on the centre console to allow the driver access the Multi-Commander System.

Seat layout 

The system allows intuitive control of an array of functions via a 5-inch display located in the centre panel.

The screen also functions as a display for the Bose audio system that comes with an in-dash six CD changer. The rear seats feature ample legroom with a knee clearance 43 mm greater than the previous model and amongst the best in the segment.

Instrument dials 

Leg space is 984 mm, which is 37 mm more than on the previous model. The length of the rear seat cushion is increased by 20 mm and the seat back length by 33 mm. The rear center arm rest has been enlarged by 60 mm. The boot is designed from an ergonomic perspective. The upper opening width is 32 mm wider than on the previous model, for easy loading. A swan hinge enables easy and smooth opening and closing of the trunk.

Curvaceous rear 

Verdict

The third generation Mazda 6 is a brilliant mid-size saloon, which tends to be overlooked for no good reason apart from slight fear of the badge. The Mazda 6 saloon is well-made, has charming looks, little to dislike and handles superbly

#30 Datsun mi-Do and on-DO – The Japanese motoring icon returns

Datsun originated in Japan as DAT-GO (the DAT-car) almost a century ago in 1914. The word DAT means ‘lightning-fast’ in Japanese but is also a reference to the first letters of family names of the three financiers who supported the business at the time: Den, Aoyama and Takeuchi.

Datsun on-DO

The DAT-GO was promoted using the same logic: Durable, Attractive and Trustworthy, or DAT for short. In 1933, Nissan’s founding father Yoshisuke Aikawa took over the business with a vision of “mobility for all”. The introduction of a light-weight, economical yet resilient car to meet the aspirations of young Japanese people in the early 1930s was named the ‘son of DAT’ (Datson) which later changed to Datsun.

DAT-GO

Local engineering and mass-production made the founder’s dream a reality. The automotive company continued to produce vehicles for more than 50 years. During this time more than 20 million vehicles were delivered to customers worldwide. In 1981 the Datsun brand was phased out. The company was rebadged to Nissan as it begun a massive global expansion.  

Datsun 100A

One of its most famous Datsun models was the 100A (also known as the Cherry in some markets). The compact car was Datsun’s very first front-wheel-drive car. The 100A was available as either a hatchback or saloon. Powering the car was a choice of two engines; 1.0 litre a 49 kW (66 hp) and a 1.2-litre 62 kW (83 hp) unit. A 4-speed manual was responsible for shifting gears.

Datsun Go+

The Datsun 100A was a cheap and well-built compact car for the masses. The Datsun 100A later became the Nissan Sunny. Recently Nissan retuned the Datsun brand back to the market. The brand is now featured on low-cost models manufactured for emerging market.

Datsun Go

The latest Datsun vehicles have the great qualities visible on past models such as the 100A. This means they are well build, cheap and meant for the masses. That Datsun range expands further with the addition of two more models; the on-DO and mi-DO. The two models join Datsun’s other models namely the Go and Go+

D-Cut grille 

The mi-DO is a practical five-door hatchback while the on-DO is Datsun’s first modern four door saloon. Both models feature Datsun’s new confident "D-Cut" grille. The grille is flanked by dramatically elongated projector headlamps, which stretch to fender to create a look that differentiates saloon and hatchback. Both models, just like the Datsun 100A, feature front wheel drive. The Datsun mi-DO is 3,950 mm long compared to the on-DO at 4,337 mm.

Datsun mi-DO

The mi-DO and on-DO feature a 64 kW (87 hp) 1.6-liter power unit, which is slightly more powerful than the Datsun 100A’s 1.2-litre unit. Paired with the 1.6-litre engine is a five speed manual or a four speed automatic. Both cars offer smooth and comfortable urban driving, while multifunctional, practical features and generous ground clearance mean a worry-free road experience on even or uneven road conditions.

Cockpit 

The instrument panel, with metallic accents, features a smooth and elegant look. Well-designed storage spaces throughout the interior provide a spot for just about everything. The mi-DO and on-DO have supportive front seats as well as comfortable rear seats and spacious legroom.

mi-DO's rear 

Practical touches include 60:40 split folding rear seats to maximize luggage space. Both the mi-DO and on-DO comes fitted with a driver and passenger airbag as well as ABS. 

Spacious and versatile interior 

Verdict

The mi-DO and on-DO reignite the Datsun brand to the world and continue with Mr Yoshisuke Aikawa’s philosophy of providing mobility to all. Although the mi-DO and on-DO are more modern compared to the Datsun 100A, they continue with the same trend of offering cheap, well-build and affordable to the masses.

on-DO's rear 

Currently both models are available in Russia. They are expected to debut in India and South Africa at a later date.