New Arrivals
Mercedes-Benz debuts two coupes
The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe 200 and 300 made their debut on the Chinese market on March 30, with prices at 382,800 yuan ($59,000) and 488,800 yuan.
As the sporty variant of the C-Class, the coupe has a striking front section featuring a diamond radiator grille and long bonnet. The new coupe is 60 millimeters longer than its predecessor between the firewall and front axle.
In contrast to the C-Class sedan, the dropping line extends farther past the rear wheel arch. To underscore its sporty disposition, the suspension is 15 millimeters lower than the sedan, making it a sporty proposition when combined with the standard 17 inch tyres.
The C-Class Coupe is 95 millimeters longer and 40 millimeters wider. The increased vehicle volume creates more space for the driver and front passenger. There is also more shoulder and elbow room and headroom in all seats.
Equipped with a two-liter turbo engine, the C200 provides an output of 135kW/184 hp and a top torque of 300 Nm. It consumes 6.6 liters of gas per 100 km.
The C300 is equipped with the same engine, provides an output of 180 kW/245 hp and a top torque of 370 Nm.
The coupe comes with the option of Airmatic air suspension, which gives the driver the option of selecting his or her desired driving style. The driver can select from one of five driving modes: ECO, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ or Individual.

BYD launches full electric models
Chinese new-energy vehicle maker BYD Motors launched two fully electric models - the Qin EV300 and e5 300 - in Beijing on March 31. The BYD Qin EV300 has four variants with higher configurations, while the e5 300's three variants have more basic configurations, at lower prices.
The two electric cars run as far as 300 kilometers in comprehensive driving conditions. They can be fully recharged within two hours by a 380-volt wall box installed by Huashang Sanyou, or in seven hours using a 220 V outlet.
Both models carry the mobile electric power station technology that can output 220 V to home appliances, for example electric cookers, during outings.
The in-car air purifier will rapidly reduce PM2.5 molecules through its three-layer filter, to secure a healthy driving environment despite smog outside.
The Qin EV300 accelerates in 7.9 seconds from zero to 100 km/h thanks to its 160 kW electric motor outputting 310 Nm peak torque. It has a length of 4.74 meters with a wheelbase of 2.67 meters, and its trunk holds 450 liters.
The new models are equipped with front seat ventilation and heating, dashcam, 360-degree surround view system and remote control driving for easy parking.
The company also announced its joint venture with Didi, a car hailing platform, as the company looks to expand into the car rental business.

Hyundai Elantra targets the young
South Korean automaker Hyundai launched the Elantra, its Chinese-made compact car, in Shanghai on March 25, targeting the country's new generation of consumers, with prices from 99,800 yuan ($15,400) to 151,800 yuan.
Produced by the Sino-Korean joint venture Beijing Hyundai, the model has seven variants and two types of powertrains: 1.4T GDi and 1.6L GDi/MPi, in conjunction with a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic and 7-speed DCT transmissions.
The 1.4T variants have a 7-speed DCT transmission, which can reach a maximum torque of 210.8 Nm; and variants with 1.6L GDi naturally aspirated engines can reach a top torque of 157 Nm and an output of 95.3 Kw.
The two engines' fuel consumption for 100 kilometers are 5.5 liters and 5.9 liters, respectively.

Changan's customizable SUV
Changan Automobile launched its maiden customizable model in the Chinese market on Wednesday. With abundant options, the small crossover vehicle, the CS15, targets the younger generation of vehicle buyers, especially recent college graduates.
The new model's bold shape and front grille makes it more masculine, and helps display the owners' personality, according to the Chongqing based State-owned enterprise.
There are eight roof colors to match with seven exterior colors. Four decoration paints and three interior colors are available for customers to choose from.
The smallest Changan crossover has a wheelbase of 2.51 meters and a body of 4.1 meters, and it is 1.73 meters wide, and 1.64 meters high. Its trunk can be expanded to 1,100 liters when the back seats are laid flat.
The BlueCore 1.5-liter Variable Valve Timing engine outputs 145 Nm peak torque and 78.5 kW maximum, but as of now is only available with a five-speed manual transmission. The automaker will launch a 1-liter turbocharged version with Dual Clutch Transmission in the second half of the year.
The car is forged with High Efficient Energy Absorbability Body structure, and equipped with Antilock Brake System, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and two front airbags as standard.
The In Call smart infotainment system with Baidu Carlife, a 7-inch touch screen, rearview camera and automatic heating mirrors are installed in the two higher configuration variants of the four. A panoramic sunroof is optional.

(China Daily 04/11/2016 page18)