Monthly Archives April 2014

In part 1, we reviewed some basic knowledge of AWD system, BMW xDrive and Mercedes-Benz 4Matic system. Now we continue our discussion on Lexus and Audi.

Lexus: the IS250/350 AWD and GS350 AWD are using a planetary-gear center differential, plus a wet-type multi-disc clutch control to act as slip control. This is a very advanced and complex design. Because the multi-disc clutch can be 100% locked, it means Lexus’ AWD can handle the case that even front or rear wheels completely lose traction, than the rest side of the two wheels still have full power. The disadvantage of this design is it is complicated and the parts take space...

For US market luxury brands, most of their upscale sedans offer the AWD option nowadays. However, not all AWD systems are created equal. Before our review, let’s look at what goes into a luxury sedan AWD system.

Differential: this is a device to let both sides of output rotate at a different speed, and still obtain torque. For example in your front-wheel-drive car, your front wheels are connected with a differential.

Open differential: when one side of output loses traction, there will be no torque available at another side at all...

Here it comes. Along with the Lexus NX debut, Lexus will also presenting a newly designed 2.0L turbo 4 cylinder engine. The NX will come with the 2.0T powerplant, and also a hybrid version.

The 2015 Toyota Camry will be revealed in the 2014 NY auto show. Here are changes we may see in the mid cycle updated 2015 Camry:

1. A CVT (continuous variable transmission) will be available in some non-hybrid models;

2. Valvematic (an upgrade to the current VVT-I technology) will be added to the 4 cylinder engine to improve the fuel efficiency, just like what the Corolla has right now;

3. A slight chance that a newly designed 2.0L turbo engine will replace the current tried-and-true V6 engine (and we are almost sure that this engine will appear in the upcoming Lexus NX CUV);

4...

The compact SUV market competition becomes more red hot recently. Latest news we have for the new X1:

– Diesel and gas engine available; from 3 cylinders to 4 cylinders. Most powerful option will be more than 300 horsepower;

– Aisin 8 speed transmission;

– FWD layout, US market AWD only;

– Made in Leipzig (Germany), Shenyang (China) and Brazil;

– Of course, a X1 long wheel base version for China;

– Revealed in 2015 and on sale 2016;

– Your guess is correct, the X2 will also come.