Georgi Boychev – Page 155 – Automobiles Review

Ford Performance and the story behind 2016 Focus RS RX

2016 Ford Focus RS RX As you might know, Ford Focus RS RX was designed in order to become the ultimate rallycross car in the FIA World Rallycross Championship. In collaboration with UK-based M-Sport and Hoonigan Racing Division, Ford Performance engineering team implemented the same cutting-edge technologies and high-tech instruments to develop the special RS RX.

There is series of documentary videos, first of which is already available. It is indeed the episode 1 of “Project RX” and highlights the design and development process between Ford Performance and the M-Sport race shop.

Ford vehicles that wear the RS badge are known for their track domination for decades. This RS badge is reserved for Ford cars that show highest performance scores and quality and as it seems, this one deserved it.

2016 Ford Focus RS RX

Furthermore, Ford Focus RS RX is part of Ford Performance’s factory program in the FIA World Rallycross Championship series and will be included in numerous events and races.

Definitely a special car, the RS RX catches the eye with beautiful, yet aggressive design, excellent performance rates and that impeccable For Performance build quality and engineering. Following the path of previous generations of Ford cars, the latest family member benefits from time-tested technologies and approaches and modern solutions and ideas.

2016 Ford Focus RS RX

Source: Ford Performance

April 28, 2016

Volvo is about to launch an ambitious autonomous drive campaign. Here are some details

Volvo autonomous drive campaign Volvo cars, the premium Swedish automobile manufacturer is about to start its incredible and ambitious experiment: a promising autonomous test drive that aims to deliver solution for the countless car accidents and injuries.

As you might know, Volvo is notorious for its safety features and it has been leader in safety and utility technologies since 1959 when showcased the three point seat belt. Indeed this was the year that started brand’s domination in the field of safety and injury prevention in the automobile world.

The whole campaign bears the name “Drive Me London” and will be completely different from other AD programs and campaigns. Furthermore, there will also be a special seminar, sponsored by Volvo and Thatcham, the insurance industry’s research organization, in London on May 3rd with the aim to demonstrate Volvo’s future plans in details.

Volvo autonomous drive campaign

What is special about the autonomous drive campaign is that it will be gathering data from everyday users and everyday routines rather than unrealistic conditions and situations on test tracks. Also, Thatcham Research will be providing everything needed in terms of technical data analysis and test drivers.

“Drive Me London” will begin in the beginning of 2017 with limited number of semi-autonomous vehicles and is scheduled to expand its activities with up to 100 AD cars until 2018.

So, what is the big deal with AD vehicles? There are numerous independent researches that reveal a rather interesting statistics. Based on the sources, using AD cars can reduce the number of car accidents significantly and can also solve the annoying congestion issue. In fact, as we talk about congestions, AD cars are also believed to be far more practical: they allow traffic to move more smoothly, reducing traffic jams and pollution. And last, but not least, all of these optimizations can save up some sweet precious time.

Volvo autonomous drive campaign

So, what do you think about all this AD trend? Is there any chance that this technology can help the modern fast-paced society?

Source: Volvo

April 28, 2016

This year’s Gumball 3000 flagship vehicle is BAC Mono. Check out more details here!

The BAC Mono will be playing the starring role in this year’s Gumball 3000 with the single-seat supercar appearing at numerous key points of the premium rally event. Fans and enthusiasts will have the chance to see the BAC Mono closely and there will also be few lucky people who will take the wheel and see what is it like to drive such a car.

The Mono will be making its first ever appearance on the opening day of the 2016 Gumball 3000 and will also be taking part in the start-line paradise when the flag drops in Dublin on May, 1st.

Vehicle’s appearance will be on the following day, when it would take part in the parade on Regent Street in the heart of London. Mono will be lining along other supercars, while fans will be able to get up close one more time.

And after this event, BAC will be involved in the final act of this year’s Gumball 3000 event with brand’s offering a rather special deal: special Gumball 3000 dinner on 7th of May in Budapest. There will also be a special charity event and auction house bids. The winner of the auction will also have the one and only chance to spend the day with official BAC test driver Oliver Webb. How cool is that?

Source: BAC

April 27, 2016

More appealing than ever: Land Rover Discovery receives comprehensive upgrade

2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport Land Rover announced some design additions to the 2017 Discovery Sport that include the Dynamic Design Pack and the advanced Land Rover InControl Touch Pro infotainment system with a large 10.2-inch touch-screen. But what else should we expect?

Refined Design

Available on HSE and HSE LUX trim levels, the Dynamic Design Package includes special front and rear bumpers with integrated rear tailpipes, black accented exterior detailing and glossy 20-inch wheels. In terms of interior improvements, the pack brings contrast stitching leather seats and gearshift knob, special carpet mats, metal finish pedals and central dash side panel finishers.

Also, buyers can choose between four new exterior body colors: Silicon Silver, Farallon Black, Carpathian Grey and Aruba metallic.

Cutting edge technologies

2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport

The InContrlo Touch Pro system comes with larger 10.2-inch touch screen and offers intuitive menus, premium look and feel, along with user-friendly interface. Also, the vehicle benefits from Intelligent Speed Limiter, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keep Assist and more.

2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport

So, it looks like Land Rover does not satisfy itself with just some base model configurations. And provided that Discovery is one of brand’s best selling model, it seems logical to improve it and make it even more appealing.

So, what do you think about the additional goodies? Write down in the comment section.

Soruce: Land Rover

April 27, 2016

Isuzu team showcases the latest and greatest D-Max AT35 pickup lineup

2016 Isuzu D-Max AT35 Isuzu launches the most extreme D-Max to enrich the already comprehensive model lineup. The fresh and new D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 is especially designed to tackle down all the challenges that the road and weather can offer. Available in double-cab or extended-cab configurations, the AT35 is the most versatile vehicle that Isuzu can offer.

So, what else does this sweetie offer? Let’s find out!

Exterior and interior styling

The interior protects occupants from potentially hazardous conditions, but it also provides tons of entertainment and utility goodies: there is a six-speaker audio package, iPod/USB/Bluetooth connectivity, heated and folding door mirrors, leather steering wheel with audio cruise controls and more. The double-cab also includes full leather upholstery and automatic climate control.

2016 Isuzu D-Max AT35

In terms of exterior looks and features, the sweetie proudly shows revised projector headlamps, body-colored front bumper, chrome door handles and chrome grille, along with LED rear lights and rear load liner.

Drivetrain system

The AT35 is based on the trustworthy Isuzu D-Max chassis structure. As you might know, it is made of high strength steel with cross-member braces and large cross-sectional dimensions. Under the bonnet there is a highly efficient and responsive 2.5-liter twin-turbo diesel unit that generates a total of 163hp (119kW) and 400 Nm of torque. This unit is further paired to a five-speed automatic gearbox with a sequential manual shift control function that allows drivers to take full control of gear selection for more authentic driving experience. How cool is that?

Optional equipment

Buyers will have the chance to choose from wide range of optional accessories for further refinement and pleasure. There are styling upgrades as the Arctic Trucks Truxedo, Acrctic Trucks Sports Bar, 27-LED square work light for widespread illumination under the darkest skies and more.

2016 Isuzu D-Max AT35

In terms of interior technologies, drivers can upgrade their infotainment system with the Pioneer AVIC-F860BT audio setup, DVD and European navigation system.

Source: Isuzu

April 27, 2016

Powerful and Agile, Audi TT RS Roadster Shows How A Fine Vehicle Should Look Like

2016 Audi TT RS Roadster A special jury of international motor journalists have voted the 2.5 TFSI “Engine of the Year” six times in a row. Ant there is particular reason why. Audi has always amazed us with drivetrain technologies and now one more time the premium brand tries to set even higher standards. The latest five-cylinder machine is entirely made of lightweight components and features incredible engineering solutions in order to provide smooth and agile performance. The 400hp (294kW) and 480Nm of torque machine ensures stunning pulling power, distinctive sound and accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in mere 3.7 seconds.

And as we talk about drivetrain system, the Audi TT RS also features sporty chassis and direct steering with close contact with the road. Furthermore, at the front axle, ventilated and perforated steel discs are in action behind the 19-inch wheels or the optional 20-inch forged wheels. And as we talk about optional goodies, there are also abrasion-resistant carbon-fiber ceramic discs and RS sport suspension as alternatives to the standard equipment.

Exterior and interior design

Athletic and muscular, the new TT RS proudly shows large air inlets, Singleframe grille, fixed rear wing and two large oval exhaust tailpipes. At the flank, there are aerodynamically-shaped side sills that enhance the overall muscular appearance.

2016 Audi TT RS Roadster

On the other hand, the interior style is entirely focused towards the driver. All the information is displayed on the digital Audi virtual cockpit with 12.3-inch screen. Also, the driver can choose from three views that include the special RS screen with rev counter that provides information for the tire pressure, torque, and g-force. How cool is that?

In terms of infotainment, Audi team has also made its best. There is wide list of cutting-edge technologies, incorporated as standard features, but there are also tons of optional and additional goodies. There is MMI navigation plus with MMI touch, Audi Connect Online Module, Audi Phone Box, smart phone integration and many more.

2016 Audi TT RS Roadster

The new TT RS model lineup will be launched in the fall of 2016 with a starting price of $75,100 USD.

Source: Audi

April 26, 2016

X1 Long Wheelbase Heads Towards China With Full Force!

BMW unveils the next generation of the highly successful BMW X1. As you might know, this is one of the best selling BMW vehicles, exceeding 800,000 units sold. And now, with customer’s needs in mind the premium automobile brand refines and upgrades the vehicle and even releases a special lineup exclusively for the Chinese market.

The long-wheelbase version of the new BMW X1 sets incredibly high standards as it comes to interior space, luggage and of course, ride comfort. With these enlarged dimensions, the whole body design incorporates the BMW X model mould and the Sports Activity Vehicle DNA. And let’s not forget the completely new power units which include the TwinPower Turbo technology for further refined driving experience. These features, along with the tons of premium standard goodies shape the whole appearance of the new X1 model.

In terms of performance, the BMW X1 will be offered in China with a total of three power unit options. The X1 sDrive18Li will be powered by a three-cylinder petrol engine with a total output of 136hp (100kW), while BMW X1 sDrive20Li generates 192hp (141kW) via a four-cylinder petrol unit and the xDrive25Li offers 231hp (170kW) via four cylinder petrol unit.

2016 BMW X1 Long Wheelbase

Of course, in the style of BMW vehicles, the X1 lineup comes with sporty spirit, along with surprisingly low emissions and fuel consumption rates. Furthermore, the three-cylinder unit can be paired to a six-speed Steptronic gearbox, while the remaining two models are mated to a eight-speed Steptronic as a standard feature.

Also, BMW team offers wide variety of configurations and customization options as a panoramic roof, run-flat tires, outside rearview mirror assembly with electric folding, parking assist technology, rear Park Distance Control alarm, keyless start, Dual Zone air conditioning, high resolution color touch screen display , tons of connectivity options and more.

And the main optional goodies that really caught our eye are the Navigation Plus pack with a navigation system (you don’t say!), 8.8-inch display and a touch Controller and the Driving Assist package with Dynamic Damper Control, LED headlights and more.

2016 BMW X1 Long Wheelbase

So, how do you find the latest family member?

Source: BMW

April 26, 2016

2016 Nissan Tiida Was Proudly Demonstrated to the Chinese Market

2016 Nissan Tiida Nissan unveiled the all-new Tiida model at the Auto China 2016 event. Also, the well-known brand announced and the launch of a new Maxima lineup that would be especially created for the Chinese market.

Furthermore, the Nissan IDS Concept was also premiered, bringing brand’s vision and plans for future EVs and autonomous driving vehicles to China. Nissan takes seriously the idea of producing more eco-friendly automobiles and further improve the idea behind “Nissan Intelligent Mobility”. And last, but not least, Nissan also announced that the company will work in collaboration with Tsinghua University in order to promote the Intelligent Mobility idea and technology, along with some related technologies and ideas.

But let’s get back to the Tiida.

Beauty and functionality

The latest family member proudly demonstrates tons of improvements: from the new engine, through the gearbox system improvements and safety features to the dynamic and beautiful design. Scheduled to be one of the important model for the Chinese market, the Tiida will relate to the young generation.

2016 Nissan Tiida

In terms of technology, the vehicle adopts the aid of Intelligent Mobility, Intelligent Power, Intelligent Driving and Intelligent Integration. Overall, Chinese customers will be dealing with some smart machine. Buyers will also benefit from Forward Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Warning. And of course, some conventional and utility goodies will ensure pleasurable and smooth driving.

In terms of performance, the Tiida benefits from 1.6-liter HR16DE power unit, paired to a Xtronic CVT system, featuring Start and Stop function. This combination ensures wonderful performance rates and excellent efficiency: 5.3 liters per 100 kilometers. Sweet.

2016 Nissan Tiida

Altogether, Intelligent Power and an even more powerful 1.6L HR16DE engine, coupled with the Intelligent Start and Stop system and improved Xtronic CVT, enable the all-new Tiida to deliver superior performance with efficient 5.3L/100km fuel consumption.

Devoted to deliver excitement to the young Chinese generation, Nissan has also named the professional basketball player Jianlian Yi product ambassador for the all-new Tiida.

Source: Nissan

April 26, 2016

Infiniti Showcases the Bold and Beautiful QX Sport Inspiration Concept

2016 Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration Concept The bold new Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration Concept has made its global debut at the 2016 Beijin Auto Show and showed brand’s plans and intentions for the future.

The QX Sport Inspiration Concept strictly follows the series of the Q30 Concept, QX30 Concept and Q60 Concept. The new Concept family member shows Infiniti’s vision of how the future mid-size SUVs would look and at the same time show off some design ideas and engineering wonders.

Heavily influenced and shaped by brand’s “Powerful Elegance” design approach, the QX Sport Concept demonstrates expressive exterior with muscular stance, sculptural lines and refined proportions. And, of course, Infiniti team hasn’t abandoned its meticulous attention towards the small cues and details.

On the other hand, the spacious and functional interior follows the ideology of “driver-centric, passenger-minded” approach and is characterised by elegant and flowing lines, advanced craftsmanship and tons of cutting-edge technologies.

The new Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration will be on display at the 2016 Beijin Auto Show from 25th of April until 4th of May at the China International Exhibition Center.

As always, Infiniti tries to impress audience, critics and fans with outstanding design, blended with high quality components and structure and excellent performance rates.

SO, what do you think about the vehicle? Write down in the comment section!

Source: Infiniti

April 25, 2016

Porsche Team Proudly Unveils the New 718 Cayman

2016 Porsche 718 Cayman Porsche proudly presents the fresh and bold 718 Cayman. The latest and fourth-gen two-seater comes confident, athletic and powerful: with its wonderful body proportions and exterior lines and with this impeccable build quality and the tons of power this sweetie definitely caught our eye.

As you might remember, the Cayman lineup made its debut back in 2005 and since then Porsche has won numerous awards and received tons of positive feedback. And now, with the latest 718 Cayman, it seems that the premium brand sets a new goal for achievement.

Appearance and style

The new 718 Cayman is definitely an eye-catcher with its taunt proportions, distinctive air intakers and overall sweeping and slick profile. The slim front lights also contribute to that aggressive stance. These significantly larger Bi-Xenon headlights and the integrated LED daytime running lights can be further vombined with LED headlights with four-point daytime running lights as an optional feature.

The side shows striking sculptured wheel-arches and side sills, while the restyled rear also has this massive and more muscular appearance, enhanced by glossy black strip with integrated Porsche badge between the taillights.

Interior

The cabin somehow reminds of the 718 Boxter. The new sporty steering wheel in 918 Spyder style, along with the extensive connectivity options makes a good first impression. Also, the mobile phone integration, the premium audio system incorporation and the Porsche Communication Management, this vehicle impressed us.

2016 Porsche 718 Cayman

We are also pleased to know that there are tons of personalization and upgrade options and owners can further choose tons of goodies and reshape the cabin in their own way.

Drivetrain system

The 718 Cayman is geared with the same four-cylinder “boxer” power unit lineup and as a result, the vehicle generates a total of 300hp (220kW): a total of 25hp more output through the 2.0-liter unit, compared to prior models. Also, the top torque produced is up to 380Nm between 1,950 and 4,500 rpm and thanks to the variable turbine geometry, the overall power is further optimized and far more efficient, compared to older models.

All this means that the 0-100km/h (62mph) finishes in mere 4,7 seconds, but depending on the model and installed optional upgrade packages, this number can be changed to 4,1 seconds. And the top speed, also depending on the model and upgrades, is between 306km/h (170mph) and 318km/h (177mph).

2016 Porsche 718 Cayman

Also, in terms of upgrades and body improvements, the 718 Cayman includes increased dynamic responsiveness, firmeranti-roll bars, more direct steering and overall smoother and more confident ride. Also, there is an optional Sport Chrono Package that further boosts the performance and agility of the vehicle. The pack includes four selectable driving modes for further personalization and road flexibility.

The vehicle is already available for order with a starting price of $57,799USD.

Source: Porsche

April 25, 2016

Saloon and Estate C-Class Models Are Officially Announced!

2016 Mercedes-AMG C 43 Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC is now available in Saloon and Estate versions, along with the recently unveiled Coupe model. This is also the first time that 4MATIC AWD is available across the range in the C 200, C220 and C250 d.

As we have told you, the Mercedes-AMG C 43 is geared with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 petrol power unit, capable of producing a total of 367hp (269kW), paired to a 9G TRONIC automatic gearbox. The whole drivetrain system allows the vehicle to sprint from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in mere 4.7seconds. The 4MATIC AWD system delivers that outstanding driving stability and dynamics. And the best part is that this particular system is available for other C-Class models.

Also, the standard equipment includes ARTICO leather and DINAMICA microfiber upholstery with red contrast stitching, 18-inch alloy wheels with black finish, black exterior mirror housings, silver-painted brake calipers with AMG lettering and more.

And as we are talking about the C-Class family, we should mention the latest member: the SE Executive Edition. Available in either Saloon and Estate versions, the beauty comes with 17-inch alloys, Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC, chrome roof rails, Garmin Map Pilot navigation system, heated front seats and split folding rear seats in 40:20:40 formation.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

April 22, 2016

New Honda Clarity Vehicles Are Heading Our Way! Here’s What We Know So Far

2017 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Honda announced that the upcoming Clarity Fuel Cell will not be alone. There will be two additional models, the Clarity Electric and Clarity Plug-in Hybrid, launching in 2017. The addition of two more vehicles will definitely enrich not only this particular lineup, but also the whole eco-friendly segment.

Following the launch of the Clarity Fuel Cell in late 2016, the Clarity Electric will be available for order in 2017. It is expected to be affordable, midsize five-seater with neat battery power and cutting-edge technology boasted. And the other one, the Plug-in Hybrid will be launched a bit later in 2017 and will try to set new benchmark for the whole segment with its all-electric driving power, driving range and hyper-efficient gasoline-hybrid power unit.

With its visually-appealing styling and spacious interior design, the Clarity series caught our eye with its premium appearance, environmentally-responsible system and of course, the overall feel of luxury and comfort. And let’s not forget the cutting-edge technologies, along with the advanced safety features.

Along with the 2017 Accord Hybrid that is expected to go on sale this spring, Honda team seeks to grow sales and models in the electrified vehicle segment. All the hybrids, plug-ins and battery-powered vehicles are becoming more and more important for the brand and as it seems, for the whole automobile world in general.