Renault will present its new SUV in 2023; see what to expect – 05/17/2023

With evidence of the growing demand for SUVs (Veículo Utilitário Sport, in the free translation of the acronym) in the Brazilian market, which shows what is also happening in many countries, no manufacturer can ignore this product. Renault was the first brand to challenge the Ford EcoSport (launched in February 2003) in the compact segment with the Duster, which was launched in October 2011, more than eight years later. At that time, this type of model was not as attractive as it is today, when any manufacturer is forced to offer one or more options in this category.

The French brand is betting on the renovation of the current Duster, which includes the new CMF-B design, in Brazil, thus moving from the line of Dacia, its Romanian subsidiary. Renault has just announced that pre-series production has already started at the São José dos Pinhais (PR) plant. The new model, whose name has yet to be revealed, will also mark the production debut of the 1-litre turbo flex engine in the same region. It is already a competitive price indicator to take advantage of the low IPI rate for this particular transfer.

According to the Autosegredos website, there will be a dual-clutch automatic transmission and not a traditional CVT with continuously variable ratios.

The launch strategy includes a static delivery in the middle of next semester and the start of sales in the first quarter of 2024, following what has been done by the industry recently. The investment plan of BRL 2 billion until 2025 includes another launch, probably the size of the Captur, which could offer versions with five and seven seats.

There are also plans for a new Oroch image, also based on the CMF-B architecture. News from Argentina suggests that this product would switch factories and countries, and begin production there like the average Alaskan motorcycle, according to Nissan Frontier. Despite the production minister of the neighboring country, José de Mendiguren, after saying that everything was decided, Renault did not confirm which country was chosen.

Increasing ethanol to 30% in gasoline requires additional tests

At the moment, there is only the intention to increase the addition of anhydrous ethanol (water content of only 0.4% from 27% to 30%). According to the Minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveira, “the increase in ethanol content will contribute to energy security of our country, and reduce gasoline imports and energy transitions, by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.” In fact, 3% more ethanol will not make any difference in terms of energy security, although it will bring a small gain in CO2 emissions.

But the minister was wise to say that there will be a technical assessment with the car industry. In fact, almost 85% of the Brazilian fleet already has variable engines suitable for any percentage of ethanol. The rest is divided between diesel and gasoline, which can affect old and imported engines that need to be considered. There is no deadline for changes.

Research on E30 fuel (70% gasoline and 30% ethanol) has existed since 2021, in the United States, by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The final report was inconclusive because it would have required longer trials and an expanded fleet. However, he emphasized that the implementation of such a strategy can act as a preventive solution to reduce the level of greenhouse effect in the atmosphere.

In Brazil, for the eight-year sample of E27 (mandatory since 2015, from E25) the transition to E30 would be more attractive if the gasoline increases its octane rating. It would be enough to maintain the current formulation instead of downgrading it. Additionally, quality and damage issues are worse.

At least the illusion of volume at the pump at the gas stations will gradually decrease. Dover Fuel Solutions has installed the first unit with a mandatory digital signature by Inmetro at a fuel station in São João de Meriti (RJ). It will avoid fraud called “low pump”, when the volume set in the car tank is lower than that shown by the display.

Audi RS 5 Sportback Competition Plus track: as exciting as the name suggests

From BRL 849,990, few cars can resist this Audi model that combines high performance, driving pleasure and uncompromising sportiness. The sedan-coupe follows the formula set by the German engineering school by combining durability, high level of finish, style and refined mechanics.

In the version of the Track evaluated in the Velopark race, in Nova Santa Rita (RS), the front bucket seats provide full body support when cornering and encourage you to explore all the characteristics of this model with all-wheel drive and dynamic behavior that is not ideal.

The ride height is 20 mm lower than the standard Audi A5 Sporback, with unique 20-inch alloy wheels, 275/30 R20 Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tires (R$ 20,000) and carbon-ceramic brake discs ( BRL 67,000). For the most demanding, there is a unique painting for R$ 57,000. With a price close to 1 million dollars, this sedan is at a level of performance that faces sports cars that are less fast, such as accelerating from 0 to 100 km / h in 3.8 s and a top speed of 290 km / h.

The 2,896 cm³ turbo V-6 delivers 450 hp and 61.2 kgf.m. The sound on board does not hide the fact that it is a well-tuned engine with a high power density of 155 hp / liter. The suspension is independent on all four wheels with three adjustable stabilizers and anti-roll bars. The set is very difficult and requires attention to avoid holes. With a wheelbase of 2,826, it offers good space in the back seat for two passengers and a third with natural noise.