Georgi Boychev – Page 130 – Automobiles Review

Elise 380: Lotus’s most agile sports car has a lot to demonstrate. Check it out!

2016 Lotus Exige 380 High in power, menacing in style, the new Lotus Exige 380 is by far the most aggressive in the Exige lineup. Many people would say that this is the same drivetrain system in different package. Nope. This is not the case with the latest Lotus family member.

What is special about this one is that it relies more on drivetrain system improvements, rather than electronics and utility gadgets. This means that it delivers a total 352hp per tonne power-to-weight ratio and will try to be one of the best supercars in the field of agility and manoeuvre. It is also one of the lightest in the whole Lotus range with its mere 1,066kg. Sounds good, right?

But do you know what sounds better? The engine roar. This is a mighty 3.5-liter V6 power unit that generates a total of 375hp (270kW) and 410Nm of torque. Exclusively tested and refined, this unit promises some unforgettable journeys and numerous adrenaline rush situations. We are sure about this one.

2016 Lotus Exige 380

The V6 is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox that is also exclusive for this particular model. It is especially designed to eliminate lateral movement and it is also super light, thanks to the aluminum components and parts. In fact, there is also an automatic six-speed transmission as an optional feature with aluminum paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. Lotus has taken care even for the most devoted lovers of motorsport activities!

In terms of styling, the vehicle is not only beautiful and stylish. As any other Lotus vehicle, the Exige 380 features especially shaped body that deals impeccably with aerodynamic challenges. It has undergone special procedure and extensive CFD modelling work and allows far more efficient air flow that predecessor models. Also, the numerous carbon-fiber components further enhance the agility and dynamics of the vehicle.

2016 Lotus Exige 380

Further features include Michelin Piliot Cup 2 tires, placed on ultra-lightweight alloy wheels that can be specified in black or silver. There are also AP Racing forged four-piston brake calipers and special grooved performance two-piece brake discs.

Of course, as you might have expected from Lotus, this is not all. The design crew also includes optional Carbon Exterior Pack that contains a one-piece carbon roof panel and neat carbon louvered tailgate. Being heavier than the original roof panel with a total of 2kgs, the carbon louvered tailgate saves exactly two additional kilos of weight, so you should not worry about weight gains.

2016 Lotus Exige 380

And the styling and convenience goodies? Exige Sport 380 can be specified in one of ten individual colors that altogether with the carbon-fiber components enhance the sporty and menacing stance. Also, for all of you who are still not satisfied, there is optional accent finishes can be specified.

The interior is enhanced by neat detailings, carbon-fiber components, including sporty seats, Alcantara wrapping and numerous optional and customizable features. There is, for example, Interior Color Pack that brings contrasting surrounds, HVAC surround, carbon seat eyelets and electric window bezels. Cool.

Source: Lotus

November 23, 2016

Carbonfiber Dynamcis reveals its latest menacing project! And it is definitely incredible!

2016 CarbonFiber Dynamics BMW F82 M4 Carbonfiber Dynamics, a well-known tuner in Germany showcases its latest project: a super-cool and menacing BMW F82 M4 that was completely revised. Called M4R, the vehicle incorporates numerous carbon-fiber parts from different manufacturers and showcases some incpredible agility, thanks to the heavily upgraded drivetain system and the total of 700hp (522kW) output.

2016 CarbonFiber Dynamics BMW F82 M4

But let me tell you a bit more about the carbon kit. It is exclusive extract of many brands and technologies and not only contributes to car’s great agility, but also is a stylish one. The front bumper fits the whole design concept of the M4R, while the carbon bonnet of MTC Design somehow resembles the GTS styling and creates a nice transition. Also, the side skirts, made by Varis, further enhance the sporty and menacing stance. The 3Ddesign rear wing ensures the necessary downforce and the 56°NORD carbon roof box is, in fact, a special one. It has been tested at speeds of up to 300km/h. At the same time the whole optics are topped with a GT4-styled wrapping from Revowrap, which showcases the sporty spark in the project.

As we mention the sporty spark, we should say that this is not an ordinary BMW vehicle. It is especially fine-tuned to dominate the streets. With a total output of 700hp and 286Nm, this sweetheart will impress many racecar fans and even sceptics. Some of the drivetrain features include JB4 Tune from Burger Motorsport, BMS Au Chargepipes and Methanol Injection, revised TTE 6XX turbochargers and of course, Eventuri Carbon/Kevlar intakers. Sweet.

2016 CarbonFiber Dynamics BMW F82 M4

And how does it stop? Easily. With fresh new 14-disc clutch Dodson Motorsport brake system that replaces the original one. Also, the Mov’it brake ensures just fine deceleration and works in full harmony with the exclusive and fine-tuned Blistein B16 EDC suspension. And all this is finished with neat set of 19-inch 6sixty forged wheels and Proxes R888R Semislicks from Toyo Tires. Cool.

Source: Carbonfiber Dynamics

November 23, 2016

Lexus celebrates success with new models! Check these beauties out!

2016 Lexus IS 200t Turbo Special Edition Lexus celebrates its one millionth unit sale of the popular IS sports sedan vehicle and decides to launch a special celebration model that offers enhanced style, better safety features and tons of super-pleasurable infotainment features.

There are three new models that are available in a total of three different trim grades that provide everything that customers might want. Also, as it comes to personalization and optional features, the new models include eight exterior styling changes and a total of 15 interior changes. Cool, right? Also, there are numerous improvements onto the infotainment and utility systems.

2016 Lexus IS 200t Turbo Special Edition

In terms of drivetrain system, Lexus team has added two new power units. The one is IS 350 that is a 3.5-liter quad cam V6 and the other one is the 300h petrol-electric hybrid bad boy. Also, there is the god ol’ IS 200t. All these units can be specified regardless of the trim level.

In fact, the interior additions and changes are definitely worth mentioning. First of all, there is sweet new 10.3-inch display infotainment screen that replaces the previous seven-inch unit. There is also a new instrument gauge and new steering wheel buttons that heavily resemble the Lexus RC Line styling.

2016 Lexus IS 200t Turbo Special Edition

Also, driver and passengers should feel safe, thanks to the new Safety System+ pack that comes as part of the standard equipment. It includes revised and sophisticated Pre-Collision System, a pack of electronic control mechanisms and new Lane Departure Warning+.

Source: Lexus

November 22, 2016

Driver-focused and not that appealing: Toyota 86 GT hits the road!

2016 Toyota 86 GT Facelift Toyota team continues the sharpening of the popular 86 sports car and gears it with additional features that enhance the styling, performance, and overall quality.

This revised coupe comes with stiffer chassis, revised suspension system, improved aerodynamics and additional track mode that altogether will please brand’s enthusiasts and potential buyers. Also, there is a manual version of the vehicle that receives uplift in power output through new intake and exhaust system. Cool, right?

2016 Toyota 86 GT Facelift

In terms of interior changes and additions, there is new smaller steering wheel, performance data options for the color multi-information display, new power and torque curves, stopwatch and G-force monitor. In fact, the whole exterior styling is more direct and somehow more aggressive. Of course, we do like it. The more the aggressiveness, the more the fun!

The 2.0-liter aluminum horizontally opposed direct-injection power unit is mated to a six-speed gearbox and together they produce a total of 208hp (152kW) and 212Nm of torque. Impressive, isn’t it? Furthermore, the engine breaths more easily thanks to the improved intake and exhaust systems.

2016 Toyota 86 GT Facelift

Other details include stiffer body structure, revised coil springs and shock absorbers, fine-tuning of the electronic control systems. Also, all variants are fitted with hill-start assist control and tons of neat styling changes. These include new specific dynamic stance, neat lines and curves, larger grille and wide and low stance. Definitely menacing. There are also high-grade GTS that feature aluminum wing-type spoiler and exclusive 17-inch cast-alloy wheels. The GT variants come with 16-inch alloys.

Source: Toyota

November 21, 2016

Jaguar team proudly presents a recreated replica to a legendary 1950’s legend

2016 Jaguar XKSS Replica Back in the day Jaguar XKSS has kicked some serious butt. Definitely it was a piece of a beauty at the time it was unveiled sixty years ago, but we have to admit that this is still one incredibly elegant and appealing vehicle. But as it looks like, it is not enough for the whole Jaguar team: they have decided to revive the old classic and create nine exclusive automobiles that completely resemble the original eye candy.

In fact, as you might know, the original XKSS is named world’s first supercar and it proved it at the Le-Mans race events back in 1954-1956. A year later there were nine vehicles that were lost to a fire accident at the Jaguar’s Brown Lane factory, but the good news is that there are still 16 automobiles that resemble the good ol’ days in pretty stylish way.

2016 Jaguar XKSS Replica

And as we have told you, Jaguar has already announced that a special recreation project is being executed and there are nine “lost” XKSS machines that will soon hit the roads. The nine vehicles will be completely new and as close to the original as possible.

In terms of performance rates, the new XKSS features a 3.4-liter straight six-cylinder Jaguar D-type power unit that delivers a total of 262hp and features new cast iron block, new cast cylinder heads and three Weber DC03 carburetors.

2016 Jaguar XKSS Replica

The inside also completely resembles the original design. There are wooden components, leather coverages and brass knobs that not only reveal the styling of the 1950’s, but also showcase Jaguar’s perfection and incredible attention to even the smallest details.

2016 Jaguar XKSS Replica

Every single car is hand-built and it has taken about 10,000 hours to be completed. Incredible, isn’t it?

Source: Jaguar

November 18, 2016

2017 E-Golf: familiar in style, unknown in possibilities

2017 Volkswagen e-Golf It gets sort of a trend. And we tend to like this one. Volkswagen of America has just presented the last generation of e-Golf model. This new and shiny bad boy offers better electric engine, more power and enhanced agility.

For the upcoming season year Volkswagen decided to gear the vehicle with a new lithium-ion battery with increased capacity of a total of 35.8kWh. This would help the vehicle to achieve the impressive 124 miles with a single charge. Something else, the additional 7.2kW is standard feature for the SE and SEL Premium trim levels and enhances the battery charging time to less than six hours.

All these improvements and changes result on a total power output of 134hp and 214lb-ft. Or, in other words, the improvements mark a rise of the output with 19hp and 15 lb-ft of torque. Sweet.

2017 Volkswagen e-Golf

In terms of technologies and hi-tech features the vehicle includes hew Volkswagen Digital Cockpit with specific e-Golf instruments and gadgets. There are also special 12.3-inch color screen, different information profiles, navigation and infotainment systems.

In fact, the infotainment is something that deserves further recognition. It is a Discover Pro system that comes with a large 9.2-inch glass display. It is featured in a Golf vehicle for the first time and can recognize hand gestures, offers remote access via the Volkswagen Car-Net app and the Guide & Inform services.

Volkswagen also extends the driver assistance and utility systems for the e-Golf. Buyers will be granted with Forward Collision Waring with Autonomous Emergency Braking, optional Driver Assistance Package for the SEL Premium trim level and many more.

2017 Volkswagen e-Golf

In terms of styling, the new e-Golf has a lot to demonstrate. The vehicle showcases new bumpers, front fenders and LED headlights and taillights. The front face shows new daytime running lights, blue grille trim strip, while the rear shows restyled lights and fresh new bumper. Overall, it is a good-looking Golf vehicle, but with a sort of a trendy kick that would be convenient for the upcoming 2017 model year.

Source: Volkswagen

November 17, 2016

Maybach proudly showcases its first cabrio vehicle. And it is fabulous!

2017 Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet This is it! The first ever Mercedes-Maybach cabriolet vehicle makes its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. And believe us, there are tons of reasons to be excited about. Expected to hit the market in 2017 with a limited run of 300 units, the new Maybach monsters showcase the true nature of the word “luxury”.

As you might remember, a glimpse towards future was first made with the Vision Mercedes-Maybah 6 that made its debut not that long ago. And now the new addition, the Mercedes-Maybah S 650 Cabriolet comes to finish this affair and offer a new level of comfort and driving pleasure.

2017 Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet

Based on the open-top S-Class, the S 650 features well-done proportions, dynamic, yet super elegant body styling, soft top and dropping line that slopes down at the end and of course, tons of exclusive Maybach features. Only some of these are special front bumper with upgraded lower section and tons of chrome details. There are also special 20-inch Maybach forged wheels with bichromatic finish and something that we find as a super cool feature: a projected Maybach logo when the door is opened. Yes, we have definitely seen such stuff before, but this one still impresses with style and elegance.

The interior is fully leather-trimmed and slightly resembles the styling of the S-Class Coupe vehicle. There are sweet flowing lines in the seats, waterfall-like upholstery, outer diamond quilting on the seat sides and more.

2017 Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet

By more we mean unique trim elements to every individual unit. These include coloring, stitching and grain. Of course, being true Maybach family member, the new guy features super exclusive fine wood veneer, individually milled lines and reinforced three-dimensional effect. Also exclusive to this particular model are the deigno nut brown magnolia with either flowing lines or high-gloss finish and the nine interior color concepts.

The design team didn’t miss to include many logos and badges and of course, there is this super-special chrome-plated “1 of 300” lettering on the cup holder and the steering wheel that features Maybach lettering on the lower bezel. Cool, isn’t it?

2017 Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet

And being precise in the making and giving, the team includes a special welcome pack with each vehicle. This includes a key ring, made from nappa leather and a certificate, signed personally by Dr. Dieter Zetsche, the Chairman of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes Benz Cars.

Source: Mercedes-Maybach

November 16, 2016

Audi is ready for 2018 season year: here are the main suspects

2018 Audi S5 Sportback There are some fresh Audi A5 and S5 Sportback models that will soon be part of brand’s premium lineup. These vehicles will be revealed at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show and what we know so far is not that much, but it already sounds promising.

These bad boys will feature new Sportback body styling, ample cabin space and more aggressive character. So, let’s see what else should we expect from these bad boys.

2018 Audi S5 Sportback

2018 A5 and S5 Spotback vehicles are no strangers to Audi’s body language. Both models will feature wider and flatter Singleframe grille and longer, but lower hood lines that emphasize the aggressive road character of the cars. Also, the wave-design shoulder line is more pronounced, compared to previous models and the wider wheel arches contribute to more massive stance.

2018 Audi S5 Sportback

In terms of interior features, the A5 will please customers and Audi enthusiasts with incredible attention to the details, numerous functional elements and cutting-edge technologies. There is a three-dimensional decorative inlay trim, climate control integration. As an additional option there is Bang & Olufsen audio system with 3D sound effect for all the music fanatics out there. Cool, isn’t it?

Also, just like its Coupe and Cabriolet siblings, A5 Sportback will come with the agile 2.0-liter four-cylinder power unit that is paired to a seven-speed S tronic dual clutch automatic gearbox. This combination generates a total output of 252hp (188kW) and 273lb-ft. The result is quite astonishing: 0-100km/h sprint ends in 5.7 seconds.

2018 Audi A5 Sportback

On the other hand, S5 Sportback is geared with a revised 3.0-liter TFSI V6 power unit and produces these massive 354hp and 369Nm of torque. These numbers result on a super short 4.5 second 0-100km/h sprint. This model will also come with an eight-speed TIptronic automatic gearbox, especially tuned to perform excellently in low-end torque revs.

2018 Audi A5 Sportback

Furthermore, both vehicles feature Quattro all-wheel drive system as a standard feature that offers enhanced agility, self-locking central differential with ratio of 40:60 front to rear and wheel-selective torque control.

2018 Audi A5 Sportback

Also, both models will feature tons of comfort and utility gadgets: there are Audi virtual cockpit, MMI touch with handwriting recognition, new infotainment system, Audi pre-sense suite, Audi adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go function, traffic jam assist and more.

Source: Audi

November 16, 2016

Black and limited: VW Caddy brings some style to the streets

2016 Volkswagen Caddy Black Edition Volkswagen Caddy buyers and enthusiasts will be pleased to know that they are all invited to witness the launch of the Caddy Black Edition model. This is a range flagship unit and it is limited to only 500 examples. These bad boys feature numerous design additions and refreshments, along with many more optional extras. So, let’s check ‘em out in details!

Exterior

2016 Volkswagen Caddy Black Edition

Just like some notable predecessors, the limited editions feature Volkswagen’s most popular touches. There are Deep Black pearl effect finish, black roof rails, body-colored bumpers, door mirrors and handles, front fog lights with cornering lights, lower ride height and all this topped with neat 17-inch Canyon two-tone Black and Silver alloys.

Interior

2016 Volkswagen Caddy Black Edition

Caddy Black Edition comes with full carpeting, leather multi-function steering wheel, gearknob and gaiter, exclusive air conditioning and heated windscreen. Also, there are cruise control, DAB+ radio and Driver Alert system.

Drivetrain system

The limited run of machines feature an agile 2.0-liter TDI 102hp (76kW) unit, paired to a five-speed manual gearbox. This engine will try to maintain efficient and smooth, but at the same time remain aggressive and sporty. It also includes Start/Stop function, Hill Hold Assist, regenerative braking and low rolling resistance tires.

2016 Volkswagen Caddy Black Edition

Prices for the limited edition start from $24,000 USD.

Source: Volkswagen

November 15, 2016

Mercedes-AMG and the three GT3 race-ready beauties

2017 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Racecars For 2017 race season, Mercedes-AMG team will be racing in the most important and prestigious North-American race series for the first time. The chosen vehicle? GT3. The championships? IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Riley Motorsports and other.

So far the Mercede-AMG racing team has decided that one of the competing vehicle will run as “AMG-Team Riley Motorsports” and the other as WeatherTech Racing with sponsorship from series’ main sponsor. Sweet, isn’t it? Also, with SunEnergy1 Racing, one more custom vehicle from Affalterbach is already confirmed.

2017 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Racecars

It appears as Mercedes-AMG prepares confidently for the next milestone and passionately continues development of the Customer Sports Programme. And with the entering of the Mercedes-AMG GT3 in the IMSA championship the team shows its determination for achieving victory, or at least honorable performance. As you might know, so far the manufacturer was presented with the SLS AMG GT3 that did good, but apparently, there is still to be wanted.

And this is why for this upcoming presence in IMSA, Mercedes-Benz works together with Riley Motorsports. This means that there will be a car that would be especially represented by the team’s patronage of the series’ sponsor. Also, there are plans that include a Mercedes-AMG GT3 machine to take place in the GTD class.

2017 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Racecars

Definitely getting more and more serious, the sports team confidently heads towards a sweet 2017 race season.

Source: Mercedes-AMG

November 15, 2016

Audi reveals new Black Edition models that will soon hit the market

2016 Audi Black Edition Models Audi will grant buyers and brand enthusiasts with new super cool Black Edition models to honor the increasing number of sold units. The design team aims to tweak the most preferable models: A3, S3, TT, TT Roadster, S6 and S7 Sportback babies. Also, later this year there will be a new member entering the Black Edition club: the new Q3 SUV machine. Sweet.

For A3 three- and five-door Sportback and Saloon units, the Black Edition upgrade grants fresh new 18-inch 10-spoke alloys with matt titanium finish and darkened privacy glass, there are also numerous dark tinted specification options and of course, many more darkened and blackened components from the interior and exterior. And let’s not forget the super cool exclusive Audi Sound System with a total of 180 watts that await to be unleashed.

2016 Audi Black Edition Models

On the other hand, S3 Black Editions come with new color-coding and sweet 18-inch five-arm Turbine design wheels. S3 Saloon will be receiving 19-inch five-arm Wing design wheels. Also, there is premium Bang & Olufsen audio system. Sweet, isn’t it?

These Black Edition goodies are also applied for the TT and TTS Coupe and Roadster models. The differences are modest: these two receive 19-inch five-spoke Blade design alloy wheels and additional wind deflector for the Roadster.

And the Q3 range? Well, this sweetie adopts the usual additions, but also adds some more spice with black styling 19-inch 10-Y-spoke design alloys and new metallic paint. All along with a BOSE audio system.

2016 Audi Black Edition Models

And last, but not least, S6 Saloon and Avant, along with S7 Sportback Black Editions will feature more menacing stance, thanks to the combination of 20-inch five-twin spoke alloys and 21-inch for the S7, piano black inlays, BOSE audio system and flat-bottomed multi-functional steering wheel.

Source: Audi

November 14, 2016

2018 Equinox heads our way: here’s what you need to know!

2018 Chevrolet Equinox 2018 Chevy Equinox is about to make its first super-official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Showcasing sweet design and cool new features, the vehicle surely deserves some more attention.

So, what should we be excited for?

Let’s mention it one more time: cool interior styling. There are sweet expressive lines and curves, notable Chevrolet design cues and some sort of resemblance to the Volt, Malibu and Cruze models. Also, there are new projector-beam headlamps and new horizontal taillamps the further enhance the aggressive, yet stylish stance.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox

The interior welcomes driver and passengers to a place entirely dominated by denim-styled fabric, blended with high durability and tons of functional gadgets. The vehicle also includes the latest connectivity gadgets. People inside the car will be pleased to know that there is an 8-inch MyLink infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.

In terms of safety and utility, Chevrolet team has done what must be done: gear the machine with everything that is needed to become a rival to the big names in terms of safety and comfort. There are numerous next-gen cutting-edge systems as Surround Vision, Forward Collision Alert, Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking, Lane Keep Assist and more.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox

Drivetrain system. Now we are talking. Chevy engineers offer a choice between three turbocharged units that include the super-ultra-cool turbo-diesel system and smooth transmission system. The units are a 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter turbo engines, paired to GM’s automatic nine-speed gearbox and the latest one is a 1.6-liter turbo-diesel engine, paired to the same transmission system.

Additional features include 10 percent weight reduction, compared to older models, switchable AWD system with enhanced efficiency and special kneeling rear seat that allows a flat rear load floor of up to 63.5 cubic feet for additional cargo load.

Source: Chevrolet

November 11, 2016

Author: Georgi Boychev

Exterior

Interior

Drivetrain system

So, what should we be excited for?