2015 Dodge Charger

...a sporty and precise large sedan car

The 2015 Dodge Charger proves that driving a large sedan doesn't have to be boring.

Its steering feels sporty and precise, and while its ride quality is supple and forgiving on bad surfaces, this big car offers impressive control and balance when you hustle it around tight turns.

The 2015 Dodge Charger is heavily updated inside and out, though this large sedan is the same overall size as before.

An eight-speed automatic transmission is now standard across the board, while the Charger's V8 engines no longer can be coupled with all-wheel drive (AWD is still available with the V6).

The 2015 Charger also adopts a host of new electronic driver aids and safety features, including a frontal collision warning and mitigation system.

A full expert review by the foremost American car portal, Edmunds.com described the latest car as a unique choice in the full-size sedan market, the Dodge Charger has been thoroughly updated for 2015.
On the surface, the changes bring increased refinement to this large, retro-themed sedan.

New sheet metal gives the Charger a sleeker appearance, while the overhauled interior features higher-quality materials and a larger selection of advanced electronics features.

On the other hand, a trio of new V8 models, including the outlandish Charger Hellcat with its new supercharged V8, dial up the big Dodge's performance to the point that you'll wonder if you've been teleported back to the original muscle car era.

However, even if you stick with a V6-equipped 2015 Dodge Charger, you'll find the acceleration satisfyingly brisk, while the ride is smooth and forgiving and the handling impressively well-controlled given the car's ample dimensions.

Regardless of which model you choose, there's plenty of room to stretch out in the 2015 Charger (though intrusion from the driveshaft makes it tough to get three adults in back), and it has one of the best touchscreen-based electronics interfaces available in a vehicle of any price.

For 2015, Dodge has packed in desirable new technology features. A keyless ignition and entry system is standard on all models, and the list of available safety aids now includes lane-keeping assist and frontal collision mitigation.

Among the few downsides to the Dodge Charger is lousy rearward visibility, so the available rearview camera is basically a necessity.

And if fuel economy is a priority, the Charger's V8-heavy lineup probably won't win favor with you.
Still, the 2015 Dodge Charger demands your consideration if you're shopping for an affordable full-size sedan, particularly if you want one with rear-wheel drive and V8 power. You won't find many cars that match the 2015 Charger's attributes, but the Chevrolet SS, another rear-drive sedan with a potent V8 of its own, can run with the SRT models.

If AWD and V8-like acceleration are musts, the often-overlooked Ford Taurus SHO is worth a test-drive. Among the many front-wheel-drive options in this class, there's the Chevrolet Impala, which has a similarly roomy interior and a wealth of easy-to-live-with tech features, and the Kia Cadenza, a value-packed relative newcomer that's smooth and refined.

As in the past, the Charger won't please everyone, but it's a must-drive for anyone seeking family-friendly interior space and rear-wheel-drive performance.

Body Styles

The 2015 Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan offered in SE, SXT, R/T, R/T Road & Track, R/T Scat Pack, SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat trims. All models are rear-wheel drive, but the SE and SXT offer optional all-wheel drive.

The 2015 Charger SE standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone manual air-conditioning, a six-way power driver seat, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, a tilt-and-telescoping and leather-wrapped steering wheel, a six-speaker audio system with a 5-inch touchscreen interface, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and USB and auxiliary audio inputs as well as dual charge-only USB ports.

Choose all-wheel drive for the Charger SE and you'll also get 19-inch alloy wheels and larger brakes.
Move to the Charger SXT and the standard equipment list grows with 18-inch wheels, LED foglights, heated mirrors, remote ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, an eight-way power driver seat (with four-way power lumbar adjustment), an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an 8.4-inch touchscreen interface (with Unconnect Access integrated smartphone apps and voice commands), satellite radio and an upgraded audio system. With all-wheel drive, the Charger SXT also gets standard 19-inch wheels.

Choosing the SXT trim also brings access to many of the 2015 Charger's major option packages.
The Plus package adds bi-xenon headlights; heated exterior mirrors; a rearview camera; parking sensors; leather upholstery; ventilated front seats; a power front passenger seat; a heated steering wheel; memory functions for the driver seat, mirror and radio; heated rear seats; LED interior lighting; and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The Premium Group is a comprehensive option package that incorporates all of the amenities from the Plus package, along with 20-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension (rear-wheel-drive models only), automatic high-beam control, automatic wipers, adaptive cruise control, a frontal collision warning and mitigation system, a lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist system, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals, a navigation system, satellite radio and an upgraded 10-speaker Beats audio system.

If you don't want all of these items, Dodge has also grouped many of them into smaller, less expensive option packages.
The flashy Rallye Group adds a slight power upgrade for the V6 (taking it to 300 hp), 20-inch HyperBlack alloy wheels, performance tires and brakes, a sport-tuned suspension (rear-wheel drive only), a rear deck lid spoiler, a Sport mode for the transmission, steering-wheel-mounted manual paddle shifters and the Beats audio system.

Moving to the Charger R/T trim brings the SXT's standard equipment and adds a 5.7-liter V8 with sport exhaust, 20-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes and a body-color rear spoiler.

In addition to that list, the R/T Road & Track model comes with heated mirrors, a limited-slip rear differential, launch control, upgraded brakes, a performance-oriented calibration for the power steering, a more aggressive Super Track Pack suspension tune, three-mode stability control, Dodge Performance Pages (allowing driver adjustment of engine response, transmission shift points, steering effort, stability control intervention and launch control), rear parking sensors, driver memory functions, a heated and power-adjustable tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a power passenger seat, ventilated front seats and heated rear seats.

The 2015 Charger's performance is upgraded even more with the R/T Scat Pack trim, which brings a 485-hp 6.4-liter V8, Scat Pack-specific bodywork including an air-intake hood, upgraded Brembo high-performance brakes, unique 20-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, an even firmer suspension calibration, selectable three-mode power steering, aluminum-trimmed pedals, a special leather trim on the steering wheel and cloth sport seats.

Next up is the Charger SRT 392. It's fitted with the same 6.4-liter V8 as the Scat Pack, but gets an even more impressive set of Brembo brakes with six-piston front calipers, special 20-inch forged-alloy wheels, Pirelli tires (all-season rubber is standard; summer performance tires are optional), an active exhaust system, an upgraded suspension with three-mode adaptive shock absorbers, bi-xenon headlights, leather and simulated suede upholstery, all the interior amenities from the Road & Track model, a flat-bottom steering wheel, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and SRT Performance Pages, which builds upon the Dodge Performance Pages feature with even more elaborate performance-related measurements.

The price of the Charger SRT 392 also includes a one-day course at an SRT Driving Experience school.
A 19-speaker audio system is optional on both SRT models. A sunroof is optional on all 2015 Chargers, except the SE.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2015 Dodge Charger SE and SXT come standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 292 hp and 260 pound-feet of torque. Choose the Rallye Appearance Group and modest tuning tweaks boost output to 300 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque.

 As on all 2015 Chargers, an eight-speed automatic transmission is standard.
Rear-wheel drive is also standard across the board, but the SE and SXT can be equipped with optional all-wheel drive.

Safety

Standard safety features for the Charger include stability and traction control, antilock disc brakes, front-seat side-impact airbags, a driver knee airbag, side curtain airbags and active front head restraints.

Standard on some Charger models and optional for others are rear parking sensors and a rearview camera.
Optional advanced safety features include a blind-spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alerts, a lane-departure warning system with lane-keeping assist and a frontal collision warning and mitigation system that's bundled with adaptive cruise control.

The frontal collision mitigation system can initiate automatic braking at all speeds if the driver does not respond in a potential collision situation.

Dodge Chargers with Uconnect Access offer remote vehicle access (via a smartphone app), emergency assistance and text notifications if the alarm goes off.

Interior Design and Special Features

Although the 2015 Dodge Charger is oriented toward performance, its restyled cabin is generally appealing with extensive use of quality materials, though you will notice some rather large expanses of plastic in the less expensive models.

Although this is a thoroughly modern interior, there are retro-inspired touches here and there, including the T-handle shifter for the automatic transmission.

There's a vast amount of shoulder room in the 2015 Charger, and the front seats are as roomy as you'd expect in a full-size sedan, to the point that those of small stature may feel as if they're being swallowed up by the gargantuan chairs.

The mix of leather and suede upholstery in the upper-trim models is appealing and improves support during spirited driving.

Those in the rear also enjoy a wealth of hip- and shoulder room, though the outsized tunnel for the driveshaft to the rear wheels does chop into legroom. Headroom can be tight for taller occupants as well.

The Charger's 16.5-cubic-foot trunk capacity is a good size for this class, though given the Dodge's proportions, you might be expecting something more on the order of the Ford Taurus' 20-cubic-foot trunk.

All models feature folding rear seats, so it's possible to carry outsized items if you don't need the rear seats for passengers.

Driving Impressions

The 2015 Dodge Charger proves that driving a large sedan doesn't have to be boring. Its steering feels sporty and precise, and while its ride quality is supple and forgiving on bad surfaces, this big car offers impressive control and balance when you hustle it around tight turns.

Stepping up to the 2015 Charger's 5.7-liter V8, at 370 hp, will accommodate just about anyone's power needs, and this engine works brilliantly with the eight-speed automatic transmission, providing effortless performance at any speed. The muscle of the V8 also keeps noise levels to a luxury car-like minimum, though in truth, all Chargers are wonderfully quiet.

Moving to the larger V8 engines in the R/T and SRT 392 trims slants the Charger's demeanor more toward outright performance, though this big sedan's overall refinement remains front and center until you begin to pile on serious speed.

Source: www.theghanaauto.com / Georgina Otoo

Hyundai World introduces ‘XtraSavings Offer’ for B-Segment Xcent Sedan

Hyundai World-Ghana has introduced another affordably-priced B-segment Xcent saloon car currently trending in its recently announced “Hyundai Xtra Savings Festival” that promises Special introductory prices, free Servicing, Free registration and Warranty for five years or 100,000 KMS (whichever comes earlier).

The incentive, aimed at reducing initial costs of procuring some selected Hyundai models including the Xcent sedan, will further help customers to appreciate the value of their investment during the first year of procurement.

“Hyundai World” is convinced the Hyundai Xcent sedan will attract more customers and subsequently raise Hyundai’s market share in the B-segment grouping.

A 1.25Litre Kappa Dual VTVT capacity saloon car, the Xcent, according to Mr. Karthik J. Nayak, is expected to complement surging demand for a similar B-segment Hyundai Grand i10model that was launched last year.

He described Xcent as an elegantly designed and versatile new level of art and innovation car, with a comfortable and spacious cabin mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.

“We are delighted to introduce another B-segment car to cater for the growing need of budget customers who prefer affordably-priced, functional and reassuring saloon car for daily travel.”

The Hyundai Xcent can comfortably convey five passengers and it responds to every expectation, including a generous trunk and alluring cabin colour, textures and a sport-appeal that could easily make large cars envious.

The Xcent is amazingly responsive and gets off to fantastic start without sacrificing the brilliant aerodynamic appeal that makes it the best entry level sedan yet.

Hyundai Xcent also shows sharp styling with a whole new level of innovation that attests to the luminous, crafted exterior that leaves an everlasting impression on all those who catch a glimpse of it.

The clear headlight clusters for instance, not only look good, they improve night vision and on-road visibility with extra safety, just as the chrome-coated radiator grille is positioned to perfection and guarantees strong presence.

Drivers will appreciate the bucket-type front seats, ergonomically-designed rear seats and adjustable headrests and ample support that give the car a premium feel.

This is in addition to the liberal boot space that can accommodate your weekend luggage with a bench-folding function that provides an extra flat load-space.

Hyundai Xcent bumper isn’t left out -- it reduces forward air flow resistance while the rear spoiler effect enhances fuel economy and driving stability.

Hyundai does not compromise on safety, especially when viewed against the structural safety that utilises anti-corrosive steel, ring structure application to enhance rigidity and body robustness.

The Xcent dual VTVT Kappa 1.25litre all-aluminum engine is quiet and smooth, with exceptionally low weight materials to maximise fuel consumption.

A part of the Stallion Group and custodian of the Korean brand, Hyundai World says Xcent will meet the needs of fleet-buyers seeking a functional car for field marketers, as well as young couples searching for a versatile and fashionably outstanding car.

Now available at Hyundai showrooms in Accra and Kumasi, the Hyundai Grand i10 Xcent may yet be one of the most affordable cars with extraordinary features in its class

Source: www.theghanaauto.com 

Kantanka Pick-Up for Ghana Police

The Ghana Police Service has received one “KantankaOmama”, a locally-made Pick-Up vehicle by Apostle KwadwoSarfo.

The presentation of the vehicle took place at the Police headquarters located at Kanda Highway in Accra.

Chief Executive Officer of Kantanka Group of Companies, KwadwoSarfo Jnr., speaking at a short ceremonyto hand over the keys to the vehicle to the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Alhassan, said the vehicle was to assist the police to combat crimes.

He stated that the company will be presenting two additional cars to the Police later to enable them to provide efficient services to the public.

Mr.Sarfo said the vehicle, which took three weeks to assemble, has all the features of a Pick-Up apart from the voice control system.

“It is very robust and economical with a fuel consumption of 2.7 litres. The benefit is that there is no duty components attached to the price,” he said.
He stated that the company will soon launch its fleet of commercial vehicles before the end of the year.

Source:  www.theghanaauto.com

Ford builds world class Pickup Trucks with Tougher, Smarter And More Efficient Ranger

Ford unveiled its new tough and smart Ford Ranger, setting a new benchmark in the pickup truck segment with an uncompromised blend of robust capability, craftsmanship and advanced technology.

Starting later this year, an updated range of the truck will take on the world in more than 180 markets worldwide.

"The new Ford Ranger brings a new level of comfort and refinement to its segment without compromising on the rugged capability that our customers demand," said Brett Wheatley, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford Asia Pacific.

"It represents a smarter kind of tough, and will help our customers to achieve more, whether at work or with their families."

Featuring a new look front end, and a stylish, smart and functional new interior, the new Ranger builds upon a reputation of capability, innovation and comfort that has helped the Ranger to stand apart from traditional pickup trucks.

 It also boasts an array of new cutting-edge technologies that enable new and more practical solutions to everyday challenges.

"When we set out to improve upon the Ford Ranger, we knew we had our work cut out for us: The current Ranger is one of the toughest, most capable trucks out there," said Richard Tilley, vehicle line director, Ford Asia Pacific.

"But thanks to our proud truck heritage and global expertise in the utility segment, we've made what was great even better, with a bold new look, improved efficiency and a new level of refinement."

Tough and modern design

The changes to the Ranger begin with an updated exterior design. A bold, more modern look lends Ranger a powerful presence on the road, and immediately conveys a sense of capability.

A more muscular hood flows into a strong new trapezoidal grille, while imposing projector headlamps make the truck instantly recognizable, with a bold, technical look.

"When you look at how our customers use their vehicles, it's important that a Ranger looks and functions as a tough, dependable tool," said Dave Dewitt, exterior design manager, Ford Asia Pacific.

 "We saw an opportunity to give the design extra tension, and to emphasize Built Ford Tough design elements like the outboard nostrils - all while maintaining the Ranger's excellent aerodynamic characteristics."

The updated exterior has been combined with a stylish new interior that creates an even more comfortable, contemporary and car-like environment for the driver and passengers. Strong horizontal lines run across the width of the cab, giving a sense of openness, and framing the central eight-inch touchscreen.

 Behind the steering wheel, a new dual-TFT instrument cluster provides drivers with information about the vehicle, as well as entertainment, navigation and climate control details at a glance.

"The interior of the new Ranger is sleek and modern, with a strong technical aspect to it," said Dewitt.

"Accentuating the design, we've chosen materials that are stylish and attractive while being durable enough to handle the harsh life of a work truck. The interior may look more car-like, but it's as practical as ever."

Capability and refinement

The Ford Ranger remains one of the most capable trucks in its class. With a class-leading ability to wade through water up to 800 mm deep, and with 230 mm of ground clearance, it is designed and engineered to handle the most extreme terrains with ease.

 Thanks to a 28-degree approach angle and 25-degree departure angle, drivers in the new Ranger can feel confident when taking on steep obstacles.

A robust electronically controlled transfer case allows drivers in 4x4 models to shift on the fly from 4x2 to 4x4 high with a knob on the center console.

For low-speed torque or additional downhill braking, drivers can also engage low-range 4x4 gearing, while an electronic locking rear differential helps to improve traction in difficult conditions.

These off-road strengths are matched by towing capability of up to 3,500 kg and exceptional payload capacity.

The Ranger achieves all this with a level of refinement not usually seen in the pickup truck segment.

While the current Ranger already sets the standard for ride and handling, Ford engineers fine-tuned its suspension for additional comfort and even better handling.

The driving experience is further enhanced by an electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system, which provides precise steering with a natural and confident feel.

With EPAS, steering is light and manageable for low-speed maneuvering, such as parking, and precise at higher speeds - with assistance varying as necessary based on speed, steering wheel angle, cornering forces and acceleration or deceleration.

By eliminating the power steering pump used in a traditional power-steering system, EPAS also results in a quieter vehicle and improves fuel efficiency by about three percent.

Engineers also fitted the new Ranger with advanced sound-deadening materials and improved insulation for one of the quietest and most comfortable cabin interiors in its class.

Advanced Technology

A host of cutting edge technology is available on the new Ford Ranger to help drivers stay connected and in control.

SYNC 2, the latest generation of Ford's in-car connectivity system, gives drivers smarter and safer ways to stay connected.

Using natural voice commands, like "temperature 20 degrees", "play AC/DC" or "I'm hungry", the driver can control the car's climate controls, entertainment system and navigation system more easily than ever before.

An eight-inch touchscreen places more controls at the driver's fingertips, with color-coded corners for easy menu navigation.

For extra convenience, the new Ranger features a 240-volt power socket that can be used to power a laptop computer anywhere, from a work site to a family road trip.

There is also an array of driver assist technologies that help to make your drive more convenient.

  Lane Keeping Alert and Lane Keeping Aid work together to help to prevent the driver from unintentionally drifting out of a lane when driving at high speeds. If the forward-facing camera detects the vehicle is straying from its lane, Lane Keeping Alert warns the driver with a vibration in the steering wheel.

 If no action is taken to correct the drift, Lane Keeping Aid applies steering torque to guide the vehicle back into its lane.
   
Adaptive Cruise Control makes use of radar sensors to maintain both a preset speed as well as a preset distance from the vehicle ahead. When the system detects a vehicle ahead, it decelerates automatically to maintain a safe distance. It accelerates back to the driver's preset cruising speed when the road ahead clears. An adjustable speed limiter helps drivers avoid unintentionally exceeding their selected speed.
   
Forward Alert works with Adaptive Cruise Control to give drivers a visual and audible warning when the gap to a vehicle ahead drops below a safe distance. The system also charges the brakes to ensure optimum braking performance.

Front and Rear Park Assist uses sensors to detect obstacles and provide audible warnings when the vehicle approaches obstructions at low speeds, such as when parking. A rear-view camera gives a clear view behind the vehicle, giving greater confidence when parking and hitching up a trailer.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System helps drivers to stay safe and save fuel by alerting them when tire pressure is too low.

Electronic Stability Program with rollover mitigation and trailer sway control helps to keep the vehicle under control even in adverse conditions.

 Driver Impairment Monitor uses the forward-facing camera and on-board sensors to detect if the driver is drowsy. If it notices signs such as drifting off course and sudden corrective steering inputs, the system warns the driver with gradually louder signals.

In markets where it is available, Emergency Assistance uses a Bluetooth-paired and connected phone to call local emergency services in the event of a serious collision. The system communicates details of the accident and your vehicle's location, and then opens the line to let you speak directly with responders.

Other smart technologies on the new Ranger include Hill Launch Assist, to help you confidently start off from a slope, whether in forward or reverse; Hill Descent Control, which uses the traction control system to help you descend steep slopes at a constant speed; Adaptive Load Control, which adjusts the Electronic Stability Control system based on vehicle load; and Emergency Brake Assistance, which provides additional pressure to the brake system to increase braking force when you apply the brakes quickly in an emergency situation

Efficient Power

The new Ranger's impressive power, capability, and payload and towing capacity are made possible thanks to powerful and efficient engines paired to either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission.

All four engines available provide Ranger customers a winning combination of power and efficiency in all conditions, and help to underscore Ford's fun-to-drive promise.

For maximum power and torque for heavy-duty towing, Ford is offering the latest generation of its globally proven 3.2-liter Duratorq five-cylinder TDCi diesel engine.

Upgrades including an updated exhaust gas recirculation system help to improve fuel efficiency by up to 18 percent, while still putting out 147 kW of power and 470 Nm of torque.

Equipped with the latest generation of Ford's 2.2-liter Duratorq four-cylinder TDCi diesel engine, the Ranger delivers significantly improved fuel efficiency and refinement while also providing the power Ranger customers demand.

Depending on the market, Ford will offer a standard 2.2-liter engine, which generates an improved 118 kW of power and 385 Nm of torque, or a high-efficiency (96 kW) variant for up to 22 percent improvement in fuel economy.

The new Ranger is also available with Ford's dependable 2.5-liter Duratec petrol engine, providing 122 kW of power and 225 Nm of torque.

Maximizing the efficiency of its engines, the new Ford Ranger is available with Automatic Start/Stop
Technology, which saves fuel by shutting off the engine when the vehicle is idling, such as at a stop light, improving fuel economy by up to 3.5 percent.

On the move, an available longer final drive ratio boosts fuel economy at highway speeds.

Ford will manufacture the new Ranger at its AutoAlliance Thailand facility in Rayong, Thailand for distribution throughout Asia Pacific, its Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, South Africa for distribution in Africa and Europe, and its Pacheco Stamping and Assembly Plant in Argentina for distribution in Latin America.

The new Ranger will be launched in South Africa in the fourth quarter of 2015. SA specs and pricing will be confirmed closer to launch.

Source: www.theghanaauto.com