Automobiles Review

Author: Georgi Boychev

  • Fresh and Exclusive Mulliner Features Debut in the Flying Spur

    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying SpurMulliner, Bentley’s in-house coach-building division reveals its new range of distinctive and exclusive accessories for the Flying Spur that will enable customers to tweak and personalize the luxury sedan in fresh and unique ways. In fact, this is the first time when the Flying Spur can be specified with refrigerator, painted veneer, Mulliner quilter leather, sterling silver atomisers and hide-trimmed stowage boxes. And the best news is that these are only some of the countless features that buyers can choose from.

    So, what makes these additions so appealing? Let’s find out!

    Mulliner Refrigerated  Bottle Cooler

    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur The refrigerated bottle  cooler is available in the Flying Spur for the first time. All the rear seat passengers will appear to be lucky to find special storage for champagne bottle in a canted position, along with bottle stopper and two unique champagne flutes. And when not in use, the bottle cooler and glasses can be stowed and concealed with the fifth seating position reinstated.

    Painted Veneers

    Bentley brings some coziness and colorful experience with the special finish that is also first shown on the Flying Spur. The distinctive veneers is carefully selected by Bentley’s master craftsmen, carefully hand sanded and carefully placed in a way that ensures flawless finish, futuristic ambience and cozy ride.

    SEE ALSO: Bentley Continental GT3 with New Livery for Bathurst 12 Hours

    Sterling Silver Atomisers

    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur Elegant and stylish, the silver atomisers can be used to spray water or perfume for refreshment for the whole cabin. Each atomiser is polished and carefully housed in especially created compartment within the interior trim of the rear door for discreet, yet useful purpose.

    Hide-Trimmed Stowage Boxes

    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur The central console can also be specified with premium hand-made rear stowage compartment. The luxurious and extremely useful addition also includes a watch holder and dedicated place for secure stowage of cuffinks, coins and similar items.

    From the inside, Mulliner also offers compartment with incredibly  colorful details. For example, the Mandarian “Hidden Delights” hide. Influenced by the tradition of Savile Row tailoring, this feature demonstrates how flexible the personalization of the vehicle can be.

    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur
    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur
    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur
    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur
    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur
    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur
    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur
    2016 Mulliner Features in Flying Spur

    Source: Bentley 

  • Audi Dominated the 2016 Rolex 24-Hours at Daytona

    Audi R8 LMS #44 Magnus RacingAudi R8 LMS #44 Magnus Racing won the 24-hour classic with stunning finish. In one of the closest finishes in endurance racing, driver John Potter and racers Andy Lally, Marco Seefried and Audi factory driver, Rene Rast, took the checkered flag after a harsh battle with all the 703 laps and with only a 3.048 seconds lead ahead of the second car! And yes, this is the final result: Audi R8 LMS that shares almost half of its parts with the 2017 Audi R8 production vehicle won in its US racing debut.

    Indeed, this was one of the most exciting and competitive races that kick off the IMSA 2016 season where Rene Rast drove the final stint, which required limiting fuel consumption in order to stick to team’s strategy that eventually turned to be the most successful one in the whole event.

    Audi R8 LMS #44 Magnus Racing

    #9 Stevenson Motorsports Audi R8 LMS made its path from last place to 8th, backed by its trustworthy teammates. #6 sister vehicle held the lead, but eventually finished 14th in the twenty-two car GTD category. Furthermore, #45 Flying Lizard Motorsports/Krohn Racing race car encountered some technical issues which led to retire after 20 hours and 513 laps of pure racing experience.

    The next passionate and fast-paced race will be at Sebring International Raceway on March, 19th, 2016.

    SEE ALSO: 2017 Audi R8 is Priced at $162,900 USD [w/video]

    And for all the Audi lovers out there: The special R8 LMS will go on sale this Spring.

    Audi R8 LMS #44 Magnus Racing

    Stay with us for further details!

    Source: Audi

  • The Barkleys Return for the Latest Subaru Ad Campaign!

    Subaru of America, Inc Subaru of America, Inc. has launched its latest advertising campaign in celebration of the love of animals. A love that also connects brands, racers and automobile fans. It is named “Dog Tested. Dog Approved” and for now contains five spots. In fact, the well-known Barkleys, the lovely dog family that starred back in 2013’s “Meet the Barkleys”  also makes appearance in the latest Subaru advertisement campaign.

    The national television spots that were created by Carmichael Lych, will be launched in the coming weeks and all the five ads will be featured on February 7 during the PUPPY BOWL XII on Animal Planet, where Subaru of America will also mark its 6th year as event’s official sponsor. And one more thing: during the whole campaign, viewers will be encouraged to share photos of their own pets. Cool, right?

    As said, the whole campaign contains a total of five videos. So, let’s check them out!

    “PUPPY” – the video showcases that a nighttime drive is the only acceptable lullaby for one sweet and tired puppy, so a tired father takes the special Barkleys’s Subaru Legacy for one more lap around the neighborhood.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGkDqfdgVEQ

    “PHONE NAVIGATION” – This video tells you the truth: your smartphone is not as smart as you think! Why? Just watch the video.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ejf8lk9nYH4

    “DOGGIE BAG” – It looks like sometimes the appearance and capabilities of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive can be too appealing. The Barkleys take the Subaru Forest for a night ride, but it looks like they were not prepared for what was coming next.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMZM8MG6X1o

    “WINDSHIELD WIPER” – The unusual family runs into oddly localized weather in their Subaru Legacy, but luckily the vehicle has everything Barkleys need.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AavneQ8s0g4

    “BAD HAIR DAY” – How do Golden Labs keep a poker face? They don’t.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1msc2Gi_S5Y

    Also, in support of the campaign, Subaru team created a custom Barkley emoji for all Twitter lovers out there in order to help all good men out there share their passion for animals.

    Source: Subaru of America, Inc. 

  • 2016 Acura NSX Supercar Was Sold for Nearly Ten Times its Book Price

    2016 Acura NSXThe first production model of the latest Acura NSX was sold at auction in US last week for nearly ten times its book price: $1.2 million USD. The sweetheart comes with #001 VIN number personally brought by Rick Hendrick, owner of the Henrick Motorsports NASCAR team with all the money raised and donated to children’s charities of the Paediatric Brain Tumor Foundation and Camp Souther Ground.

    Furthermore, the high amount of money marks the highest charity sale of a VIN #001 manufacturer vehicle in the auctioneer’s almost half a decade of history. Also, Rick Hendrick, known for his passion of first-edition performance vehicles, will add the unique NSX to his museum collection in Charlotte, North Carolina.

    Acura NSX and why is it so special

    With starting price of $157,800 USD, the sweetie is the first built-to-order car with orders available from 25th of February, 2016 worldwide. There is also a special online platform that allows customers to take a close look at the 573-hp (421kW), twin-turbo hybrid beast.

    2016 Acura NSX

    Especially created to deliver “new sports experience” to the whole supercar segment, the NSX sets new benchmarks, just as it did 25 years ago. And the engineers have a point: with the addition of a three motor electric hybrid system, a twin-turbo V6 power unit, mated to a 9-speed DCT gearbox and multi-material body architecture with cutting edge technologies, the NSX beast will be a center of attention for a long time. Or at least it looks so.

    And with the concept of “human-centered supercar”, the next-gen NSX also delivers the latest and greatest of technologies and systems that ensure exceptional driving experience and immediate response to every single driver impulse.

    SEE ALSO: 2017 Acura NSX Makes it Official in America with Hot Super Bowl Spot!

    Developed under the concept of a “human-centred supercar,” a car that puts the driver first in every aspect of its design, the next-generation NSX leverages its state-of-the-art hybrid supercar power unit, body and chassis to deliver exceptionally intuitive and immediate response to driver inputs.

    2016 Acura NSX

    2016 Acura NSX Supercar
    2016 Acura NSX Supercar
    2016 Acura NSX Supercar
    2016 Acura NSX Supercar
    2016 Acura NSX Supercar
    2016 Acura NSX Supercar
    2016 Acura NSX Supercar
    2016 Acura NSX Supercar

    Source: barrett-jackson.com

  • Toyota Gives Out Stunning Prizes At This Year’s Toyota 86 Racing Event

    Toyota 86 Racing SeriesRacing drivers can be part of this year’s Toyota 86 Racing Series! Open to all manual variants, the event is focused on finding out the most talented and passionate young talents and grants them the opportunity to build their own racing career.

    Furthermore, Toyota ambassador and four times Australian Rally Champion Neal Bates has worked with numerous specialists to create a high-performance, low-cost race pack that can be affordable, fast and flexible at the same time. This pack is also approved by the Confederation of Australian Motorsport and is already available through Neal Bates Motorsport.

    SEE ALSO: What Will Toyota Show at 2016 ICES?

    It includes adjustable front and rear coil-over damping system which is fine-tuned by Qeensland-based MCA, owned by motorsport legend Murray Coote. Also, brakes are upgraded with larger rotors and AP Racing callipers, while the wheels step up to 18-inch OZ Asfalto alloy rims.

    Toyota 86 Racing Series

    The exhaust system is exclusively made from Toyota Racing Development. There is also added engine oil cooler and specific locked Motec M150 Electronic Control Unit. And in addition, the vehicle will be geared with Toyota 86 Racing Series-compliant roll-cage and CAMS-compliant race seats.

    Toyota 86 Racing Series kicks off in May with subsequent rounds confirmed for August. And with its entry fee of $1,500 per round, this series becomes one of the lowest of all the mainstream national series and ends up with a prize of $125,000 USD. How cool is that?

    Source: Toyota

  • SsangYong Expands The Available Via Motability Scheme Models

    SsangYong Turismo ELXSsangYong Tivoli diesel and petrol models are now available via the Motability Scheme, so even the disabled people can experience the pleasure of driving such a vehicle.

    As you might know, the seven-seater Turismo MPV was one of the first vehicles by SsangYong to become a part of the Scheme last year. Powered by a 2.2-liter Euro 6 compatible power unit, this vehicle is expected to be even more popular than its predecessor. So, let’s check out what these two vehicles have to offer to customers and fans.

    Turismo MPV

    With its stunning length and width, the Turismo is especially designed for families, leisure and business transportation. The vehicle blends multi-role flexibility with incredible driving experience.

    Thanks to its 3,000mm wheelbase, this car has the capability to provide huge interior space for seven adults and their luggage. There are a total of three rows of seats and a large load space that can be increased by completely removing the third row of seats.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 SsangYong Rexton And Its Brand-New Engine

    And while the rear wheel drive is present for the SE and EX trim levels, the top of the top ELX comes with the uncompromising 4×4 low ratio system. This makes the vehicle extremely reliant and trustworthy, no matter the road or weather conditions.

    The Tivoli SUV

    SsangYong Tivoli ELX

    Appealing and dramatic in style, Tivoli SUV comes in three trim levels: SE, EX and ELX, along with a choice of 1.6-liter petrol or diesel engine, paired to either six-speed manual or six-speed Aisin automatic gearbox.

    The EX trim level adds the optional automatic gearbox, grey or beige leather upholstery, 18-inch alloy Spiral wheels, dual zone climate control, 7-inch touch screen smart audio system, rear view camera, heated seats and more, whereas the ELX will grant buyers Diamond cut alloy wheels, smart instrument cluster, smart keyless starting, front and rear parking sensors, privacy glass, rear spoiler, automatic headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, full TomTom navigation and more.

    Along with the ample space for five adults, the SUV also offers high levels of safety with its seven airbags. Of course, SsangYong team also included numerous customizable features as choices for exterior and interior color schemes and optional equipment. Furthermore, the SE entry trim offers smart grey cloth trim, 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control and start/stop systems, along with Smart steering and RDS/Bluetooth radio.

    Source: SsangYong 

  • Skoda vRS AWD Drive Can Already Be Purchased!

    2016 Skoda vRS 4x4Skoda team knows that nature can be sometimes lovely and sometimes cruel and in either case they came up with a practical solutions for all the cases: the latest Octavia vRS can now benefit from a new and advanced 4×4 wheel drive system. Especially created to fight back the harsh and unfriendly road conditions.

    In fact, the upgrade marks the next expansion step for all the vRS range and continues the successful campaign of the vRS 230 that was unveiled last year. Yes, we are indeed talking about high quality components and advanced engineering solutions for a relatively low price. Available in hatch and estate forms, the latest addition will definitely a lot to demonstrate.

    2016 Skoda Octavia vRS and its offerings

    Powered by a 2.0-liter TDI 184hp (135kW) power unit, paired to a six-speed DSG transmission as a standard feature. Especially designed to offer maximum grip and stability, the 4×4 system constantly monitors traction at each individual wheel and provides just enough power to every axle that requires it. And let’s not forget that the boosted torque output, measured at 380Nm between 1,750-3,250rpm also contributes to vehicle’s excellent performance rates.

    SEE ALSO: 2015 ŠKODA Citigo Black Edition And Its Sweet Offerings

    Just like its predecessors, the 4×4 model also offers multi-link sporty suspension and electronic differential lock XDS+, progressive steering and of course countless safety and utility gadgets and systems. Long story short, Skoda team did everything possible to ensure full exploit of vehicle’s capabilities.

    And when we talk about performance, we are sort of obliged to tell you a bit about this sweetie’s achievements. First of all, the latest vRS can go from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in only 7.6 seconds. This makes it with 0.3 seconds faster, compared to the two-wheel-drive models. And along with the sweet numbers, this sweetie also offers and sweet fuel economy, measured at 57.7mpg on combined cycle and has CO2 output of 129g/km for the hatch and 131g/km for the estate version.

    And with prices starting from $35,820 USD the vRS 4×4 surely deserved our attention. So, how do you find the latest Skoda family member?

    Source: Skoda 

  • 2016 GMC Sierra All Terrain X Will Be Available from Spring 2016

    2016 Sierra All Terrain XGMC revealed the 2016 Sierra All Terrain X, the special edition to All Terrain model that features exclusive components and enhancements to make the vehicle not only look more aggressive, but will also boost a bit the performance stats.

    The special package of monochromatic exterior trim and unique equipment include latest-generation gadgets and numerous premium components. They all blend in a special way only to deliver a distinctive styling and exceptional drivability. So, what’s inside the box?

    2016 Sierra All Terrain X and its offerings

    2016 Sierra All Terrain X

    First of all, we should mention the 4WD with Eaton locking rear differential system, the Z71 Off-road suspension package with Rancho monotube shocks. How cool is that? We continue with high-capacity cleaner and Hill Descent Control system.

    SEE ALSO: See How This GMC Yukon Denali Runs the 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds! [VIDEO]

    Further additions include Rear Park Assist, distinctive grille with body-colored surrounds and tinted chrome accents. Spray-on bedliner, All-Terrain-logo instrument cluster and Inclinometer are also present.

    And let’s not forget the 265/65R18SL Mud-Terrain-rated Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac MT tires, sporty side steps and high-performance LED headlamps. Also, the vehicle will be offered in a total of 7 exterior colors: Onyx Black, Summit White, Stone Blue Metallic, Iridium Metallic, Crimson Red Tintcoat, Light Steel Gray Metallic.

    2016 Sierra All Terrain X

    The 2016 Sierra All Terrain X will be available for order in Spring, 2016.

    Source: GMC

  • Nissan NP 300 Navara: Expectations and Reality

    Nissan NP 300 NavaraNissan ensured that the latest and greatest NP300 Navara is ready for some action as soon as buyers take delivery by launching the model with its further-extended list of pick-up accessories up to date. Cool.

    As we know, the recently-named Pick-up of the year is available with more than 125 dealer-fit accessories that make it one of the most flexible and adaptable vehicle on the market today. Indeed, Nissan team promises some never-before seen features and tweaks, along with some enhancements to the broad appeal of the vehicle. So, let’s check out what is happening here.

    Nissan NP 300 Navara

    The additions include a sliding load tray that makes loading and unloading the NP300 far more easier; foldaway rear step; Tailgate assist: this is a special system that lowers vehicle’s tailgate smoothly with a single touch of a button. There is also a special load carrier that allows vehicle users to make use of the space on top of the load space cover.

    SEE ALSO: Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 900HP vs. Bugatti Veyron 1001HP

    There are also exclusive high-quality hardtop available in two grades that include opening windows, interior trims, interior lightning, a stop lamp and central locking. Also, the vehicle can also be supplied with either a plastic or aluminum bedliner and a choice of aluminum or soft noonneau cover.

    Nissan NP 300 Navara

    In terms of styling Nissan team offers special chrome bars for the front, side and bed, high impact lamps and decal stickers, exhaust finishers, shark antenna and distinctive alloy wheels.

    Nissan NP 300 Navara

    Source: Nissan 

  • 2016 Vauxhall GT Concept to Make Debut at the Geneva Motor Show

    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept Vauxhall and Opel will reveal their vision of the future sports car with the GT Concept at this year’s Geneva International Motorshow (March 3-13).

    Avant-garde and confident the latest GT Concept car shows a dramatic stance, unmistakable presence and elegant, yet aggressive lines. In fact, this sweetie is especially designed to pay homage to two notable vehicle: the 1964 Vauxhall XVR and the 1965 Opel Experimental GT. As you might know, these two machines are known for their innovative design and engineering solutions and now the 2016 GT Concept will try to keep up with the resigned beasts just to show that the new generation is not that bad at all.

    2016 GT Concept and its main features

    One of the key features of the Concept is the addition of large doors with integrated side windows. Both the driver and the passengers have access to a spacious interior and latest generation of gadgets. The whole space-saving concept of the interior looks like it is especially created for this particular car, while the panoramic roof enhances the feel comfort and coziness. Furthermore, the passionately-built Concept proudly demonstrates a red signature line that splits the body horizontally and stunning red tires that embrace the “roller-skate” rims.

    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept

    And there is one more super-cool feature. The integrated headlamps and indicator units benefit from an ultra-modern technology that ensures the lights have that three-dimensional beam which allows a glare-free high-beam driving. How cool is that?

    Another unique feature of the GT Concept is its integrated headlamp/indicator units. Using ultra-modern projection technology, the lights have a three-dimensional beam which allows glare-free high-beam driving. Based on Vauxhall/Opel’s award-winning IntelliLux LED matrix lighting, first seen in the recently launched Astra, the GT Concept sees the intelligent lighting system’s next stage of development. The design of the lights is completed by the three-dimensional design of the tail lamps.

    SEE ALSO: LARTE Design V-Class Black Crystal Stands for VIP Luxury

    And the Drivetrain system?

    In terms of engineering, Opel and Vauxhall teams know how it’s done. Beneath the bonnet one will find a mighty 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged power unit, completely made of aluminum that offers a total of 145hp (106kW) power output and 205Nm of torque. The six-speed sequential gearbox delivers drive to the rear wheels and along with the lightweight (the Concept weights just 1000kg) the vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in less than 8 seconds and chases a top speed of 241km/h (143mph).

    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept

    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept
    2016 Vauxhall GT Concept

    Source: Vauxhall

  • Kia Releases First Official Sketches of Niro HUV

    2016 Kia Niro HUV Along with 2017 Forte5, Kia announces details for the sporty and beautiful Niro: a special all-Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV) which is expected to extend the boundaries of imagination for the world SUV market.

    As we can see from the official pictures, the HUV demonstrates an athletic and muscular stance, high-mounted LED taillights and somehow uncluttered rear end. The sleek and fluent design lines and rear windows contribute to vehicle’s sporty spirit and it looks as at the same time allows greater room for Niro’s wide wheel arches.

    SEE ALSO: Kia Announces Further Details for the 2017 Forte5 Sedan

    The special HUV is based on Kia’s latest eco-car program and it is expected that it will achieve a sub-90g/km CO2 emissions, thanks to its refined and advanced gasoline-electric powertrain system.

    The Niro HUV will make its global debut at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show this February and will demonstrate Kia’s confident steps towards delivering not only comfortable and not only fun-to-drive vehicle, but also machines that can reshape the idea of efficiency and power.

    2016 Kia Niro HUV

    As you might know, Kia Motors Corporation is a maker of high quality vehicles for those who seek challenges and remain young at heart. For almost 70 years the brand has delivered incredible machines, technologies and concepts some of which are still considered as game-changers. And with the never-ending desire to deliver only the best it can, we do expect the Niro to be the next benchmark in automobile industry.

    2016 Kia Niro HUV
    2016 Kia Niro HUV

    Source: Kia 

  • Kia Announces Further Details for the 2017 Forte5 Sedan

    2017 Kia Forte5 SXKia Motors America unveiled the 2017 Forte5 sedan. Along with the visual changes and improvements, the vehicle also features a new seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and tons of driver-assistance functions and systems. This time the design team went for that European-influenced looks and bring us a vehicle with a distinctive “tiger nose” grille, restyled and distinctive headlights, massive fenders, revised taillights and completely restyled interior.

    2017 Forte5 will be offered in three trim levels: LX, EX and SX. Each one will bring something different and new for the lineup. For example the entry-level LX offers projector beam headlights and remote keyless entry with trunk opener, along with Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert system.

    EX trim level brings leather seats, heated front seats, push-button start with Smart Key, perimeter approach lightning with front-door pocket lightning and UVO eServices4. And let’s not forget the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay systems and the 7-inch color touch screen monitor.

    2017 Kia Forte5 SX

    Buyers of the sporty SX trim will benefit from 18-inch alloys, distinctive front and rear fascias with red accents and dual exhaust tip finishers. Also exclusive for the SX trim is the orange Color Pack that enhances the sporty spirit of the vehicle with orange leather seat inserts and contrasting stitching on the seats and shifters.

    SEE ALSO: The New Forte Koup Greet 2016 as a Champion

    In terms of drivetrain system and performance 2017 Forthe5 has a lot to demonstrate. The standard power unit is a 2.0-liter GDI four-cylinder engine, paired to a six-speed manual transmission. There is also a special second-generation six-speed automatic system as an optional feature. The SX trim comes with the powerful and responsive 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder unit, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Power ratings and additional details for the overall performance features of the vehicle will be announced soon, as the 2017 is being launched to global market.

    2017 Kia Forte5 SX

    2017 Kia Forte5 SX
    2017 Kia Forte5 SX
    2017 Kia Forte5 SX
    2017 Kia Forte5 SX
    2017 Kia Forte5 SX
    2017 Kia Forte5 SX
    2017 Kia Forte5 SX
    2017 Kia Forte5 SX

    Source: Kia