Georgi Boychev – Page 165 – Automobiles Review

Agile and Powerful, 911 R Brings Refined Driving Dynamics and Tons of Enhancements

2016 Porsche 911 R, unveiled today at the Geneva Show demonstrates a well-known formula, blended with contemporary approach towards premium feel and refined performance. With a total of 500hp (368kW) via 4.0-liter naturally-aspirated flat-six power unit, paired to a six-speed manual transmission, the latest 911 family member has a lot to demonstrate. Let’s check it out!

The first thing that impressed us about the vehicle is its acceleration and performance rates: from standing start this beauty completes the 0-100km/h (62mph) run in 3.7 seconds and thanks to the smooth and fast gearshifts, along with the special body construction 911 R has the potential to reach a top speed of 323km/h (201mph) and offers a combined fuel consumption of 21.2 mpg.

Exterior and interior styling

At first sight, the body reminds of the Carrera, while the nose and tear body are similar to the 911 GT3. Also, the whole body construction, along with the drivetrain system are based on the 911 GT3 RS. So, is there something unique and special about the new 911 R?

Honestly, the design of this one is based on different Porsche vehicles and is not that appealing or distinctive. Staying in close relation with the original 911 GT3, this one also shows different rear wing and reatatchable rear spoiler with some aerodynamic improvements. Furthermore, the front and rear apron also come from the 911 GT3, but the different here is the restyled spoiler lip and the sport exhaust system with titanium components. Sweet.

2016 Porsche 911 R

On the other side, the interior offers carbon-fiber bucket seats, trimmed with special fabric center panels in Pepita tartan design, resembling the classic 911 models from the 1960s. Furthermore, there is a special R-specific 360mm diameter GT sports steering wheel and short shift gearlever and of course, clutch pedal in the footwell. There are also special carbon trim strips in the interior with embedded aluminum badge on the passenger’s side to indicate the number of each 911 R. Why is that you may ask? Well…the thing is that this is a limited run of just 991 units, so if you are interested in buying one, you’d better hurry up.

Drivetrain system

Geared with exclusively fine-tuned rear-axle steering, direct turn-in and enhanced handling, the whole drivetrain system ensures high stability and maximum traction. Also, the advanced Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes are also part of the standard equipment. The disks measure 410mm in diameter on the front axle and 390mm at the rear.

2016 Porsche 911 R

We mentioned the lightweight construction. The overall weight of the vehicle is 1,370kg, which means that the team managed to remove additional 50 kilograms. The bonnet and front wheel-arches are now completely made of carbon-fiber, while the roof is made of magnesium and reduces the center of gravity. Some additional weight savings have been made by redesigning the cabin and the omission of rear bench seats.

2016 Porsche 911 R is already available for purchase and has a starting price of $190,897USD.

Source: Porsche

March 1, 2016

Happy 30th Birthday Hyundai! Sincerely, AutomobilesReview Team!

30 years ago, a small brand came to the US to sell units of its only model, the Excel. Thirty years later Hyundai is the fifth largest automobile manufacturer in the world with more than 10 million vehicle sales. Also, its Super Bowl 50 commercial won the top ranking in USA TODAY Ad Meter, which makes Hyundai the first automaker to achieve it. Oh yeah. And one more think. The team also launched one more luxury brand, called Genesis recently. Not bad for 3 decades, right?

In fact, Genesis brand set the aim to recreate the definition of luxury with some futuristic concepts and ideas for that special vehicle-man bond. Generally the idea is to blend human-focused innovation, balanced and smooth performance and appealing design.

Hyundai has also raised the eco standards with the IONIQ lineup that is the first to offer wide choice of electrified engines: plug-in hybrid and hybrid units are available in a single body type. As we have told you this special lineup breaks the traditional beliefs for electric vehicles and offers outstanding design, incredible performance features and of course, wonderful efficiency rates.

Surely one of our favourite brands, Hyundai seems to continue this productive and ever-evolving process of delivering incredible automobiles and technologies. Hopefully, we will witness even better and more advanced in the near future.

Source: Hyundai

February 29, 2016

BMW Competition Package: Brand’s Tribute to M3 and M4 Models

2016 BMW M3 Competition Package BMW M3 Saloon, M4 Coupe and M4 Convertible will be available with special Competition Package that improves dynamics and significantly boost performance rates.

For example, BMW M3 Saloon and BMW M4 Coupe with 7-speed M Double Clutch gearbox will finish the 0-100km/h (62mph) in 4.0 seconds, while M4 Convertible will reach the same speed in 4.3 seconds. Impressive, right?

Competition Pack will grant buyers with fine-tuned Adaptive M Suspension with new springs, dampers and anti-roll bars and three selectable driving modes: Comfort, Sport and Spot+. Also, the standard Active M Differential on the rear axle and the DSC Dynamic Stability Control have been further enhanced to match the upgraded performance dynamics. And in order to give some visual effect to the drivetrain improvements, BMW also offers special multi-spoke M styling and mixed tires.

2016 BMW M3 Competition Package

For BMW M3 and M4 Coupe, the pack offers special lightweight M sports seats, along with special seatbelts with woven-in BMW M stripes for boosting that sporty ambience. There is also a high-gloss Shadow Line exterior trim. the glossy black finish is applied not only to the side window trim, but also to the BMW kidney grille, side grills and the badge on the tail.

Also, in terms of visual upgrades the pack includes M sports exhaust system with black chrome tailpipes and overall sporty appearance. And let’s get this straight. The most beautiful part of the whole upgraded vehicle is the potent sound and its emotional impact on every automobile fan out there.

2016 BMW M3 Competition Package

Special M Carbon Compound wheels for the BMW M3 GTS

The six-cylinder in-line water injection beast with 500hp (367kW) will now be part of a vehicle with one-of-a-kind Carbon Compound wheels. With significantly reducing the overall weight, these bad boys contribute to improved acceleration and better handling.

2016 BMW M4 Competition Package

Source: BMW

February 29, 2016

2016 Ford Fiesta ST200: More Agile and Versatile Than Ever

2016 Ford Fiesta ST200 Ford revealed the new Fiesta ST200 compact hatch. More flexible and efficient, this sweetie is the most powerful Fiesta so far. With 200hp (147kW) and 290Nm of torque, produced via 1.6-liter EcoBoost petrol unit we tend to believe Ford team that the new ST200 will be better than its predecessors.

Styling

2016 Ford Fiesta ST200

The agile beauty proudly demonstrates new color and distinctive 17-inch alloys, red painted brake calipers and restyled interior with Charcoal Recaro leather wrapped front seats with contrasting silver stitching. There are also optional features as Storm Grey exterior finish, machined matt black alloy wheels and some special interior detailing. Sweet.

2016 Ford Fiesta ST200

Drivetrain system

Thanks to the agile EcoBoost engine, this car sprints from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) for 6.7 seconds and has a top speed of 257km/h (143mph). Additional improvements include improved Torque Vectoring Control with 3-mode Electronic Stability Control, modified front steering knuckle, adapted rear twist-beam with increased roll-stiffness, fine-tuned front and rear springs and dampers that now provide 15mm lower center of gravity, sharper steering ratio with shorter steering arm, improved braking system with larger tandem brake cylinder and rear disk brakes.

As you know, the Fiesta ST was launched back in 2013 and quickly became one of the leading compact performance hatchback. Since its debut this model has won more than 20 awards around the world and as it seems, Ford not only continue the fancy trend, but also improves the vehicle in ways that are both appealing and functional for buyers.

2016 Ford Fiesta ST200

Source: Ford

February 29, 2016

Suzuki to Unveil Baleno at the Geneva Motor Show

The full production model of the recently showcased Baleno will be displayed at the Geneva Show from March 1st and it is expected that it will be available for order later in June this year.

As you may know, since manufacturing their first vehicle back in 1955, the Suzulight, Suzuki has showed the world numerous varieties of compact vehicles with ever-increasing capabilities and functions. And now the Baleno, benefiting from brand’s decades of experience offers elegant and notable design, spacious and cozy interior and tons of new technologies.

The drivetrain system can also impress the audience. With the rigid and lightweight new-gen platform, the responsive and agile 1.0-liter direct-injection turbo BOOSTERJET power unit and the 1.2-liter SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) with engine assist, Integrated Starter Geneator, this sweetie becomes more and more appealing.

Also, in addition to the efficient and flexible drivetrain system Suzuki has further optimized many of the hi-tech gadgets, systems and also has done a great job with all the weight reduction improvements. Definitely this vehicle combines rigorous size and enhanced flexibility. Sweet.

Additional details will be revealed on the first of March at the Suzuki press conference.

So, what are your expectations for the new Baleno? Write down in the comment section.

Source: Suzuki

February 26, 2016

Evora 410: What Makes it Better Than the Predecessor?

2016 Lotus Evora Sport 410 Recently after the showcase of Elise Cup 250, Exige Sport 350 and Evora 400, Lotus takes one more step forward with the showcase of the high-performance Evora Sport 410. With tons of improvements, tweaks and fine-tunes the latest Lotus family member offers a 410hp (301kW) power unit with track-bred 3-Eleven that clocks 0-100km/h (62mph) in 3.9 seconds.

With significant weight reduction, power improvements and additional gadgets, Evora Sport 410 is capable of going for a lap in brand’s Hethel test in 1 minute and 28 seconds, making it faster with the impressive 3 seconds, compared to Evora 400.

Of course, one of the main advantages of the new Evora 410 is the lightweight construction that includes high-performance carbon-fiber front splitter, roof panel, tailgate and rear diffuser, along with restyled lightweight seats and revised front access panel. Also important to the overall performance is vehicle’s reduced kerb weight that allows some further suspension fine-tuning, which, eventually resulted on revised damping and overall ride height with 5mm lower than Evora 400. And at the end of the lightweight fairytale let’s not forget the distinctive and ultra lightweight 10-spoke aluminum wheels.

2016 Lotus Evora Sport 410

Also, to continue the sport affair, Lotus team geared the new Evora with manual gearbox that features low inertia flywheel and Torsen-type limited slip differential for improved traction and quicker exit speeds. Also new for this model is the Dynamic Performance Management that provides two driving modes: Sport and Race.

The interior also contains numerous carbon-fiber elements, like the new sport seats with Alcantara, along with the steering wheel and central console. Some more weight savings have been made by adding one-piece door trim panels, deletion of door arm rests and stowage pockets, relocation of tailgate and fuel filler. Oh, yeah. They have also removed the audio system. But don’t worry. You can get it as an additional feature.

And as we speak about additional features, we should also say that the new Evora can be further personalized with additional goodies and changes, thanks to the exclusive Lotus Exclusive program.

2016 Lotus Evora Sport 410

Oh yeah. And one more thing. Lotus Evora Sport 410 will be limited to only 150 units, so if you are interested in buying one, make it fast.

Source: Lotus

February 26, 2016

DS E-TENSE: The Modern Meaning of Beauty

2016 DS E-TENSE Supercar DS Automobiles is ready to showcase the E-TENSE supercar at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show next week. This electric-powered luxury sweetie blends superior craftsmanship and next-gen technologies and is expected to set new benchmark for all the luxury sport car segment.

Bold design and aggressive appearance

DS E-TENSE catches the eye with its one-of-a-kind style, elegant lines and sense of massiveness. The silhouette of grand tourer coupe is further enhancd by central chrome-plated spine and cool green color. This avant-garde design is similar to the Divine DS, as the rear widescreen is moved backwards, which gives extra space for adding more components and tweaking more feature.

Also, as an already trademark of DC, the front and rear lights proudly show their jewel-like design with DS LED Vision components. Also, the daytime running lights are picked out as if in beaded stitching. The rear demonstrates integrated indicators on the roof, similar to the original DS from 1955, while the light signature’s show-stopper are geared with full LED technology and special design that they seem to spring to life when the car is in use.

Interior styling

2016 DS E-TENSE Supercar

It took the design team 800 to complete the final appearance of the cabin that features sophisticated design, useful accessories and cozy ambience. Also, the DS team collaborated with some French luxury brands in order to deliver us further refinement and exclusivity.

Drivetrain system

DS equipped their last creation with a 100% electric power unit that produces a total of 402hp (295kW) and 516Nm of torque. This means that the E-TENSE accelerates from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) for only 4.5 seconds and can cover a range of 360 kilometers with a single engine charge. The two-wheel drive system, along with the carbon monocoque chassis also contribute to achieving the top speed of 250 km/h and their lightweight design also means that the vehicle is flexible and responsive.

2016 DS E-TENSE Supercar

Source: DS Automobiles

February 26, 2016

Chevy Gears 500 Silverado Models With eAssist Function

2016 Chevrolet Silverado Chevy announced that a number of 2016 Silverado models will be geared with eAssist technology. The already-famous mild-hybrid electric system enhances and improves many of Chevy’s standard equipment features and also adds new ones: battery cells and some fine-tuned controls for the Volt model.

As we have told you, this compact and lightweight system boosts the overall performance stats with additional 13 hp and 44 lb-ft of torque. For now, there are about 500 Silverado models that will benefit from the new system.

The paired to a compact lithium-ion battery pack eAssist also provides electric power boost function with addition horsepower and torque, additional 4-cylinder function, Stop/Start capability for additional fuel efficiency and economy, regenerative braking by using the electric motor as a generator that can ensure up to 13% improved fuel economy, based on EPA estimates.

As you might already know, the eAssist system is supplied by a 24-cell air-cooled 0.45 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, placed under the central console that shares the same battery cells as Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid. Also, the software that is used to control the whole system is based on the Chevrolet Volt software, but a bit tweaked.

This generation of advanced eAssist can be easily used on the front-wheel or rear-wheel drive system and it is also capable of using fewer cells, based on the individual needs of every vehicle and driver character.

Source: Chevrolet

February 25, 2016

GMC Introduces 2016 Sierra With eAssist Technology

2016 GMC Sierra eAssist Building on GMC Sierra’s advanced drivetrain technologies and systems, the eAssist is believed to be one of brand’s most important. In fact, this technology is innovative not only for the brand, but also for the whole industry with the achieved 13% improved efficiency.

Released this spring, the eAssist system will be incorporated in the new 2016 Sierra 1500 SLT crew cab 2WD model with the SLT Premium Plus package. And the difference? Compared to the Sierra 1500 with 5.3-liter/8-speed engine, the Sierra with eAssist shows a 2mpg improvement and a total of 22mog combined cycle. But don’t worry about performance and power. These stats remain on high levels with 355 (261kW) and 385 lb-ft of torque.

Along with the eAssist system, the SLT Premium Plus pack includes High-Performance LED headlamps, LED taillamps, thin-profile LED foglamps, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, IntelliLink with navigation and 8-inch touch screen, Bose premium audio system, heated and vented leather-appointed seats, heated steering wheel, Lane Keep Assist, IntelliBeam headlamps, front and rear park assist and rear vision camera. Sweet.

But let’s go back to the eAssist feature. It also offers Stop/Start capability, Electric power boost which means that on-board motor offers power boost during acceleration and passing, while the vehicle operates with 4 cylinders. Also available is the regenerative braking system, along with aero enhancements that improve the overall aerodynamic capabilities and fuel economy.

The eAssist system also includes a 240cell air-cooled 0,45 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, placed just under the central console.

So, what do you think about GMC’s latest toy?

Source: GMC

February 25, 2016

Hyundai IONIQ at Geneva Show: Is this Lineup that Exciting?

2016 Hyundai IONIQ Lineup Hyundai Motor presented the special IONIQ lineup at the Geneva Motor Show that consists IONIQ Hybrid, IONIQ Electric and IONIC Plug-in vehicles. And with three electric engines, IONIQ will try to make zero-emission mobility priority for everyone. Of course, all of the models show beautiful looks, combined with functional utility gadgets. So, let’s check out what the Geneva audience witnessed today.

This new lineup is extremely important for the brand and it is expected that it will become one of Hyundai’s most popular so far. But why is that?

IONIQ Hybrid and IONIQ Plug-in feature the latest Kappa 1.6-liter GDI direct injection four-cylinder power unit that provides a total of 105hp (77kW) and 147 Nm of torque. What is special about this one is it also offers a class-leading thermal efficiency of 40 per cent, compared to old models. Furthermore, the engine is paired to a quick-responding and smooth six-speed double clutch gearbox. With some enhanced dynamics, this combination offers smooth, but still a bit aggressive ride that will keep you pleased and excited.

IONIQ Hybrid’s electric motor delivers a total of 43.5hp (32kW) and maximum torque of 170Nm and is powered by a lithium-ion polymer battery with 1,56 kWh capacity. Placed under the rear seats, this sweetie offers a combined output of 141hp (103kW) and up to 265 Nm of torque, when working along with the petrol powerplant.

2016 Hyundai IONIQ Lineup

The IONIQ Hybrid’s electric motor delivers 32 kW (43.5 PS) with maximum torque of 170 Nm, powered by a lithium-ion polymer battery with 1.56 kWh capacity positioned under the rear seats. In combination with the 1.6-litre GDI engine IONIQ Hybrid offers a system output of 103.6 kW (141 PS) and up to 265 Nm of torque accelerating to a top speed of up to 185 km/h (115mph) with targeted CO2 emissions as low as 79 g/km (combined).

On the other hand, buyers who prefer the IONIQ Plug-in will be rewarded with almost 50 kilometers (31 miles) of electric drive range, via the 8.9 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery. This 61hp (45kW) motor, along with the 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder Kappa has CO2 emissions as low as 32 g/km.

And people who prefer IONIQ Electric will benefit from pure e-mobility with the 28 kWh Lithium-ion Polymer batter that can cover up to 250 km (155 miles). A rather rewarding choice, this vehicle produces 120hp (88kW) and 295 Nm.

2016 Hyundai IONIQ Lineup

Along with the impressive and efficient drivetrain system, IONIQ also offers and functional interior with tons of gadgets, some of which are Android Auto, Apple Car Play, Tom Tom live services, 7-inch TFT and many more. In terms of safety and utility, IONIQ lineup comes with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist System, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Smart Cruise Control and more.

The IONIQ lineup will celebrate its world debut at Geneva Motor Show on March 1st, at the Hyundai Press Conference at 10:30 CET on Hyundai stand.

Source: Hyundai

February 25, 2016

2016 Holland & Holland Range Rover: Beautiful and Powerful Piece of Art

Land Rover announced the introduction of the latest and greatest 2016 Holland & Holland Range Rover. There will be only 30 units to reach America, which are crafted by Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO). These limited vehicles offer unique green exterior paint, Holland & Holland badges, especially engraved brightwork, special dashboard, polished French walnut veneers and many more. So, let’s waste no more time and see what is going on here!

Maybe one of the most significant features is the rear loadspace that has been restyled and now offers deployable and locking leather trimmed gun case, which accommodates two exclusive weapons from Holland & Holland.

2016 Holland & Holland Range Rover

Based on the SVAutobiography model, this beauty features incredible exterior enhancements and premium leather interior with one-of-a-kind finishes. In terms of drivetrain system, Range Rover team knows how it’s done: Holland & Holland is geared with a V8 power unit, producing the stunning 505hp (371kW) and 502lb ft. of torque. Also, customers are able to specify the dual-tone body color scheme with a total of nine pre-selected choices, along with Santorini Black top. Cool, right.

Also, rear-seat passengers can relax in the luxurious exclusive seats with beverage chiller compartment, while the solid aluminum coat hooks are incorporated in the rear pillar. Also, at the rear-seat area there is a sliding luggage floor, made from machined aluminum and special wood veneer.

2016 Holland & Holland Range Rover

And there are even countless personalization and customization options, available at buyer’s request.

Prices for this sweetheart start from $199,495USD.

Source: Land Rover

February 24, 2016

Powerful and Stylish, Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupe Is Finally Here!

Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupé Mercedes-AMG welcomed one more member to the C-Class family: The C 43 4MATIC Coupe. Incredibly dynamic and powerful, this sweetie offers 367hp (270kW) via a 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo power unit, paired to a 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox. And this, combined with the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive and exclusive chassis architecture makes what Mercedes-AMG is known for: power and pleasure of driving.

All this means that the sweetie can sprint from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in just 4.7 seconds and chases the top speed of 250km/h.

Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupé

Furthermore, the 9G-TRONIC transmission is further improved to deliver even quicker and smoother shifts and is in a way far more flexible and adaptive, thanks to the Sport and Sport Plus, Eco and Comfort modes. Sweet.

Muscular and aggressive presence, combined with cozy interior

The new AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupe, as any other AMG vehicle is instantly recognizable with the distinctive lines, components and one-of-a-kind wheels. This well-known AMG style includes front apron with sporty air intakers, diamond meshes, silver chrome trim, along with diamond radiator grille that features chrome-plated pins, high-gloss black louvre and of course, the AMG lettering.

Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupé

There is also an optional Night Pack that adds head-insulating dark tinted glass, high-gloss black front apron trim, high-gloss black diffuser-look insert at the rear and two black tailpipes with central divider.

On the other hand, the interior offers multifunctional steering wheel, wrapped in black leather, sporty seats, ARTICO man-made leather, used on the upper edges of the body, armrests, door centers and central console. Also, the AMG instrument cluster provides all the information the driver needs in order to ensure pleasurable and rewarding driving experience.

Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC Coupé