Daily Mirror (Sri Lanka)

Rev up, Stay Hyped-new Editions to Look Out For

- By Randheer Mallawaara­chchi

2020 promises to be an exhilarati­ng year for car enthusiast­s around the globe, as several promising groups of new and redesigned models are set to be released. As tempting as they seem, it is advised to refrain from immediate purchase until a year or so from the launch of the re-designed or brand new model. Even the most reputed and reliable brands have the potential to be burdened with teething problems during a redesign. Plus, the wait enables users to evaluate reviews that the models receive, thus facilitati­ng an informed purchase decision.

2020 CADILLAC XT6

The XT6 SUV rectifies the minor imperfecti­ons that existed between Cadillac’s massive truck –based Escalade and the midsized XT5. This new three row SUV model has the capacity to seat up to seven occupants. Each model is equipped with a power-folding third row and remote –folding second row, six USB ports, heated front seats and a convenient­ly heated steering wheel. The single powertrain choice is a 310-hp with a 3.6-liter V.6 engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmissi­on. Front wheel drive is the standard mode while users have the ability to opt for all-wheel drive. The XT6 has inbuilt high standard safety tech which includes AEB with pedestrian detection and identifica­tion, and BSW. On Sale: Summer.

2020 FORD EXPLORER

The Ford Explorer has been given a complete makeover, keeping certain familiar design aspects intact. A new rear-wheeldrive platform (where allwheel drive is optional) has been incorporat­ed within the three-row SUV ride. The upgrade has given the Explorer a power boost, including a 300-hp engine, 2.3-liter turbo fourcylind­er; a 400-hp engine for the performanc­e oriented Explorer ST; and a 318-hp, 3.3-liter hybrid. The interior features many new elements, with an improved driving position. Ford mentions that the cargo area could potentiall­y cram in a sheet of plywood, given the size. The third row is designed in a manner that it has more head, hip and shoulder room than the previous model. Front Collision Warning and Auto Emergency Braking are inbuilt standard security features that the users can rely on. On Sale: Summer.

2020 HYUNDAI PALISADE

Hyundai’s flagship status was usurped by the threerow Palisade from the former Santa Fe XL SUV. It is elegantly designed with a muscular grille and flared fenders. The interior is furnished with family-oriented seating arrangemen­ts, with space to accommodat­e 8 occupants. A two way intercom system which ensures communicat­ion between the driver and passengers through the audio system provides convenienc­e to both passengers and drivers. Sleep mode permits the driver to enjoy music without any sound going to the second-third row speakers. The Palisade has a 291hp 3.8-liter V6 paired with an eight speed automatic transmissi­on. Similar to previous entries, front wheel drive comes standard while all-wheel drive is optional. Safety measures incorporat­ed include AEB, Bling Spot Warning and an adaptive cruise control system. On Sale: Summer.

2020 KIA TELLURIDE

Surpassing Kia’s Sorento in size, this bold average built SUV can accommodat­e up to eight occupants. The Telluride shares its inbuilt structures; its 291-hp, 3.8liter V6 engine and the family oriented technology with its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Palisade. The cabin is well constructe­d and the controls are streamline­d, simplified and convenient to use. Front wheel drive is standard while all-wheel drive comes optional, similar to the rest. On Sale: Spring.

2020 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

The 2020 version of this stylish compact luxury SUV rides on a new platform and gets a new look—inside and out—that’s inspired by its Velar stablemate. The base Evoque is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo engine, and a hybrid powertrain is also available. Its ninespeed transmissi­on has been updated. The Evoque also gets standard Android Auto and Apple Carplay compatibil­ity, and optional Clearsight Ground View uses cameras to give drivers a virtual view “through” the SUV’S hood on the touchscree­n display. On Sale: Spring.

2020 MERCEDES-BENZ CLA

The new CLA sedan is slightly longer and wider than the version it replaces, while retaining a coupelike design. But the biggest change is the addition of the Mercedes-benz User Experience infotainme­nt system, which includes a voice assistant that automatica­lly anticipate­s user requests, such as suggesting a frequently listened-to radio station. The car has a 2.0-liter turbo fourcylind­er engine coupled to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissi­on. On Sale: Fall.

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