Georgi Boychev – Page 218 – Automobiles Review

What is the Difference Between 2015 and 1985 Golf GTI?

Volkswagen‘s 1985 Golf GTI is already a collector’s vehicle today. But when put side by side by its youngest brother, the 2015 Golf GTI, you can see how much the model has changed. The latest 2015 model comes with more than twice horsepower, incredible fuel consumption efficiency and technology gadgets, that were not even seen on sci-fi movies back in 1985. But there is one amazing fact, that is beyond that time gap. The MSRP of the 2015 model is only 25% more than the MSRP for the 1985 model.

Rocco DeMas comments, that the fuel economy and the overall performance upgrades are impressive for the last 30 years. But he is also surprised, when it comes to safety advances. DeMans is really amazed by the incredible improvement of the safety system for these 30 years.

We offer you a comparison between the two models, when it comes to performance: The engine power has increased from 100 to 220 hp (73 to161 kW), the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) has decreased from 8.5 seconds to 5.8 seconds. Interesting fact is that the Curb weight increased with almost 1,000lbs. Of course, there are many differences in the transmission system. The options increased from standard 5-speed to 6-speed manual or 6-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. In 1985 Power windows and locks and the air conditioning were incredible extra, but today they are all included in the standard equipment for the 2015 model.

It is really incredible how much a car changes in 30 years. We all hope, that the improvements and optimizations will continue and in the future!

1985 Golf GTI vs 2015 Golf GTI - infographic

May 4, 2015

2016 Scion FR-S Is Almost Ready for the Road

Scion FR-S coupe is getting its refreshed and redesigned style for the 2016 model. The upgrades will feature interior tweaks, two additional colors, rear camera and redesigned audio system. The 2016 will bring premium feel, empowered performance and overall increased pleasure of driving. Or at least we expect so. Let see what it has to offer.

In fact, the Manufacturer suggest almost the same price, when it comes to the customization options. For example, the 2016 FR-S will come with six-speed manual gearbox or with six-speed sequential automatic transmission and the price will differ with about 1000$.

The premium feel is further expanded with the nice and stylish silver interior, the nice steering wheel bezel, shift bezel, the door grip and the fresh and stylish center console. But this is not all. The inside will welcome you with a wonderful audio system and a 7-inch touch-screen display. Voice recognition technology is also included. Nice, huh?

And in addition to the wonderful additions, there is a back camera integrated to add safety, comfort and confidence on the road. As said, the 2016 FR-S will come with additional colors. This will be the so called Ablaze red and the Oceanic blue. The 2016 Scion FR-S will be available for purchase in June this year.

Stay tuned for further information!

Source: Scion

May 4, 2015

2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen is the Official Vehicle for USA Cycling Event

Volkswagen announced, that the trusty 2015 Golf SportWagen is rated the official vehicle of USA Cycling just in time for the National Bike Month. VW will be providing sport vehicles for the Cycling event throughout the year. And there will be a special SportWagen, wrapped in “Team USA” design, that will be shown at numerous USA Cycling Championships.

In fact, the “Team USA” SportWagen will take place in the Pro Road and Time Trial Championships. There will be about 30 SportWagen vehicles on the races and the good news is that, the winners will receive a one-year Golf SportWagen lease.

The vehicle itself comes in two models. The first one is geared with EA888 1.8-liter 170-hp (125 kW) turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder TDI Diesel engine, that is especially designed to work perfectly with the six-speed manual or the six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

The second engine variation is the 1.8T and comes with manual transmission and fuel consumption, measured at 36 mpg, while the EA888 brings 43 mpg. In fact, both models offer and wonderful cargo space: 30.4 cubic feet and 66.5 cubic feet with folded seats.

As you might know, the USA Cycling event offers numerous challenges for road, track, mountain bike, BMX and cyclo-cross disciplines. The USA Cycling participants are about 64,000 and the event itself contains competitive and non-competitive smaller events.

Source: Volkswagen

May 4, 2015

2016 Acura RLX Confidently Defends its Safety Ratings

Acura made one more step in defending brand’s reputation in the field of safety drive and luxury with the redesigned and fresh 2016 Acura RLX. The model has won full score at the New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). In fact, NCAP gave the 5-star rates not only to the 2016 Acura RLX, but also to the RLX Sport Hybrid. In fact, 2016 RLX is also rated as the TOP SAFETY PICK by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The latest RLX model really offers incredible features and tweaks. It comes with different trims, that offer incredible flexibility and customization, but now, with the 2016 model comes one more extra. The AcuraWatch. This is a pack of technologies, that increase the driver’s awareness and helps for avoiding collisions. The AcuraWatch also includes Acura’s Collision Mitigation Braking System, which is an independent emergency braking system.

In fact, 2016 RLX offers incredible set of technology and tweaks and depending on the trim you get Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Information (BSI), Multi-View Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines.

In fact, the Surround View Camera System is an interesting addition to the 2016 RLX model. This is the first model to include such a technology, that provides a 360-degree image of the area around the vehicle. It offers incredible assistance when it comes to careful driving and precise parking. The system includes four camera, that together create a bird’s eye image, that ensure both wonderful visibility and reaction time.

But despite the additions and further tunings the 2016 RLX sedan comes with price, no different from the previous model.

Source: Acura

May 4, 2015

FUNstar SKODA Comes With a Fun Project

Skoda Auto demonstrates a dream car for 23 trainees from the SKODA Auto Vocational School. This is a fun car concept and it is based on the SKODA Fabia model. The name? ŠKODA FUNstar pickup. Fun, right? The SKODA FUNstar will be shown at the 34th GTI Meeting at Wörthersee from 13 to 16 May 2015.

The 23 young trainees have been tweaking and tinkering the vehicle since November 2014. All of the young engineers participated in the creation and gave numerous ideas, solutions, drawings and designs. And of course, all the trainees were helped by chief designer Jozef Kaban and SKODA AUTO Production Director Michael Oeljeklaus. The idea is not just to demonstrate an unique vehicle, but also to teach the young engineers, that pragmatism and implementation skills are as important as flexibility and inventiveness.

The FUNstar is a pickup, that is based on the ŠKODA Fabia model and contains lots of the well-known Fabia features. The FUNstar comes with metallic colors, grey and green to be precise. There are special LED lights, mounted below the sidebars and additional dual LED lens headlights, especially designed for daytime ride. The “Fun” model comes with 18-inch Gemini alloy wheels, taken from the Octavia RS.

The engine is a 1.2-Liter petrol TS, that delivers a total of 133 hp (90 kW). And there is a really special seven-speed transmission, that works in full harmony with the powerplant unit. But the goodies don’t end here. The interior continues the sporty affair. The inside welcomes you with steel-grey and moon-white components and challenges you to use one of the best sport wheels, that ŠKODA brand offers. But how you will have fun without music? Don’t worry. The FUNstar is geared with 1400-Watt audio system, that delivers incredible sound quality. The youngsters behind the FUNstar project really know how to deliver both high performance and fun experience.

With the “Trainee Car” project ŠKODA demonstrates high-quality training session, that combines both theory and practice. In fact ŠKODA team offers numerous programs for technical training, that at the end give chance to the trainees to get full-time jobs at ŠKODA plant. What better start for young engineers and technicians, who want to build a solid career?

ŠKODA team demonstrates the importance of a well-done education and training, which, as we all know, results on a high-quality product. We congratulate the young team and wish them numerous more achievements and a bright and successful careers!

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The new dream car of 23 trainees from the ŠKODA AUTO Vocational School: the ŠKODA FUNstar pickup. The fun vehicle concept, based on the new ŠKODA Fabia, is the result of ŠKODA’s ‘trainee car’ project, which was run for the first time last year. The ŠKODA FUNstar will be making its public debut at the 34th GTI Meeting at Wörthersee from 13 to 16 May 2015.

The two young women and 21 young men have been tinkering on their own vehicle project since November 2014. Developing ideas and discussing possible solutions, drawing, designing and they have built a very special, unique car. Inventiveness and flexibility are just as important as pragmatism and implementation skills. The trainees have been supported in their work by ŠKODA chief designer Jozef Kabaň and ŠKODA AUTO Production Director Michael Oeljeklaus. The new ‘Trainee Car’ is almost ready; the premiere takes place at the legendary GTI Meeting at Wörthersee in Austria in mid-May.

This is the second year in a row that the Czech manufacturer has given selected trainees the opportunity to create their dream car. The company’s goal with this programme is to promote and strengthen the vocational students’ creativity and expertise. “After the excellent results of the ŠKODA Trainee Car premiere last year, it was clear that we would continue the project,” said ŠKODA HR Director Bohdan Wojnar. “We are once again delighted with our students’ creative ideas and their goal-oriented implementation. We would like to thank everyone who has supported the project, especially the teachers at the ŠKODA AUTO Vocational School. The ŠKODA FUNstar is a great concept car that is going to surprise and inspire visitors at the GTI Meeting.”

The ŠKODA FUNstar is a funky pickup based on the new ŠKODA Fabia – cheeky, fresh and surprising. This is a bright, sharp pickup with a real fun factor, not only in name. The ŠKODA FUNstar stands out with its metallic colours steel-grey and moon-white. The sills, grille surround and the rear spoiler form a striking contrast in reflex-green. One special feature is the LED lights mounted below the sidebars. The dual-lens headlights also feature LED technology, with green LED light strips serving as daytime running lights. LEDs are also used in the rear lights.

“Through this project, our apprentices have really shown what they are capable of,” said ŠKODA Production Board member Michael Oeljeklaus whose department has taken the junior employees under their wing in production technology. “The project has been great fun. The students have really got on board with the task, showing great zeal and developing their expertise.”

The ŠKODA FUNstar drives up on 18-inch ‘Gemini’ alloys from the Octavia RS. The engine is a 1.2 TSI petrol with 90 kW. The transmission features a modern seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The sporty look continues in the interior. Individual elements are also finished in steel-grey and moon-white. It goes without saying that the students used one of the best sports steering wheels ŠKODA has to offer, and the 1400-Watt sound system offers a fantastic music experience.

The ‘Trainee Car’ project once again demonstrates the high quality of ŠKODA’s vocational training, and the importance of combining theoretical education with practical experience. The ŠKODA Vocational School offers young adults three- or four-year training programmes in technical subjects. The students graduate with an apprenticeship diploma or NVQ level 3 respectively. There are currently 13 training courses, on which 880 full-time trainees are enrolled. Some 12.5 per cent of these apprentices are young women. In addition, 65 current employees are supplementing their qualifications at a post-graduate level. The ŠKODA Vocational School in Mladá Boleslav was established in 1927. Since then, almost 22,000 students have completed their training there.

Training young people is a key part of the Czech car manufacturer’s social responsibility. The training is free; moreover, students are paid for their work during their apprentices. After successfully completing the training, ŠKODA offers all graduates a permanent job.

Source: SKODA

May 4, 2015

Hyundai With One More Award for the Tucson Fuel Cell

The Tucson Fuel Cell, which is Hyundai’s hydrogen powered zero-emission environmentally friendly vehicle has won a Silver Edison Award in Energy and Sustainability at the Edison Awards Gala. The award honors only the best in innovation and premium quality development of products. The Tucson Fuel Cell is, as you might know, the first mass-produced hydrogen powered vehicle in US.

According to Edison Awards, this is one of the highest and most prestigious awards, that a car brand can win. In their own words, this honor is given only to the best in the business. Edison Awards team sees the winners not only as car producers, but as innovators. At least Frank Bonafilia, executive director ensures us so.

In fact, there are more than 3,000 requirements, that competitors must go through, before the judges decide if they stay in the competition or not. All competitors must deal with challenges as past award winners, academic awards, leadership in technical and academic field, design and many other.

But let’s get back to the car and the technology behind it. The fuel cell technology replaces the battery pack and produces energy from hydrogen through a complex process. Overall, the Tucson Fuel Cell maintains flexibility and experience of a gas-powered car without any compromises for the customer.

Source: Hyundai

April 30, 2015

Cadillac Shows its Most Powerful Model Ever Released

Cadillac announced, that the US market is ready to take orders for the next-gen 2016 CTS-V. This is a 640 hp (477 kW) sedan and it is one of the two V-Series models, that will be offered in the market in Summer of 2015. In fact, the 2016 V-series mark a big expansion of Cadillac luxurious line.

The luxurious ride has a top speed of 360 km/h (200 mph) and goes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.7 seconds. In fact, this is maybe the most powerful car, that Cadillac has ever built for its 112 years on the market. An despite its power, it has a ton of features to show. Let’s see what it offers.

The 2016 CTS-V is geared with third-generation Magnetic Ride Control, which is rated as the fastest reacting suspension technology. But this is only one of the many features, that are standard in the 2016 CTS-V. This beauty is further geared with carbon-fiber hood, Brembo break system, 19-inch alloy wheels. It comes with selectable drive modes, that are Tour mode, Sport mode and Track Driving mode. There is really a wide variety of driving options, that ensure every kind of driver feels comfortable in the 2016 CTS-V.

And now, the most interesting part. The engine. The car is equipped with a 6.2-Liter supercharged V8 powerplant, that works in full harmony with the eight-speed automatic gearbox. This configuration, as said above, delivers 640 hp (477 kW) and 630lb-ft/855 Nm of torque.

2016-Cadillac-CTS-V--10

But this is not all. There will be a smaller version of the ATS-V, that would be earlier released. This will be track-ready ride, that delivers 464 hp (341 kW), thanks to the Twin-Turbo V6 engine. The 0-100 km/h (62 mph) is just 3.9 seconds. The model will be offered both in coupe and sedan forms.

This will be definitely an interesting model not just for the Cadillac fans, but for everyone, who is interested in high-performance vehicles. What do you think about the latest Cadillac family member?

Source: Cadillac

April 30, 2015

Audi R18 E-Tron Quattro Demonstrates Refreshed Design and Features

Audi R18 e-Tron Quattro debuts with refreshed styling and bodywork features. In fact, the whole concept is different, compared to the Audi model, that won the FIA World Endurance Championship WEC season at Silverstone. As you know, it is kind of a tradition for Audi team to create different bodywork concepts for each individual race. Just to be prepared for everything. And this proofed to be a successful strategy.

As you might remember, the visual changes in previous models was not that interesting or recognizable, but now, the skilled engineer team created a body, that is especially designed and tweaked, just to be in great condition to the Le Mans race. The specific tweaks and configurations are especially done to achieve better downforce, higher speed and even better aerodynamics.

In fact, the result is more than satisfying. the greater downforce levels, along with the different fairing, sidespots, openings and the overall bodywork and styling are essential for the latest Audi vehicle and promise to achieve the best results available on the sports track.

With all the innovations and tweaks, Audi team is ready to show great results not only in the training place, but also on the Le Mans track itself.

We wish Audi team luck and numerous occasions for celebrations!

Source: Audi

April 30, 2015

2015 Nissan Versa Note Defends its Position in the Kelly Blue’s List

This year marks the second time, that Nissan Versa Note stays on Kelley Blue Book’s “10 Tech-Savviest Cars Under $20,000”. The car won the award, thanks to the Around View Monitor, the numerous tech options, that include the hands-free texting, Bluetooth and Pandora Connectivity. In fact, Nissan Versa in on the sixth place on the prestigious list.

The companion to the Versa sedan, the Versa Note demonstrates some wonderful features, distinctive look inside and outside. In fact, the vehicle comes with large list of features and tweaks. Today we will show you some of them.

The Versa Note demonstrates incredible stylish exterior, that includes the steeply sloped windshield. There is an optional Active Grille Shitter, that makes a further boost to the overall fuel economy. And when we talk about economy, The Xtronic-geared models offer 40 miles per-gallon-highway fuel economy. The vehicle also offers spacious cargo place, that is further upgraded with the Divide-N-Hide Adjustable Floor. And of course, the Versa Note is geared with numerous hi-tech gadgets and tweaks, that include NissanConnect system, RearView Monitor, Navigation and many more.

Under the hood 2015 Versa Note shows a 1.6-Liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine with dual injection and Twin Continuously Variable Timing Control (CVTC). The Note S model comes with a 5-speed manual transmission, while the other models, the S Plus, SV, SR and SL are geared with a next-gen Nissan Xtronic transmission.

In fact, we can still show numerous features, that are included in the 2015 Versa Note. Nissan team has included Bluetooth, Hands-Free system, Satellite radio and 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

With all these features, 2015 Nissan Versa Note surely deserves a place in the prestigious list. What do you think?

Source: Nissan

April 30, 2015

Volkswagen Adretti RallyCross Crew Is Preparing for the Upcoming Competition

After competing in the inaugural season, Volkswagen Andretti Rallycross team is ready to compete in the Global RallyCross Championship. In 2015 the team will fight its place in the competition with the two Beetle GRC vehicles, which, as you know, debuted in 2014. The vehicle itself is based on the GRC car and features six-speed transmission, further-tuned drive system, upgraded slip differentials.

For the upcoming season, VW crew decided to make some changes on the car specifications and the end result is a Beetle, geared with 2.0-Liter TSI powerplant, capable of producing 553 hp (406 kW) and 465 pound-feet of torque. Impressive, isn’t it? This time, the team, that engineered the car, decided to focus on the higher power output and torque, along with some weight equalization tweaks.

The redesigned Beetle comes with incredible response and capabilities. Overall, the car is nearly 170 inches long and 70 inches wide. It weighs 2866 pounds. The combination of weight reduction, high power and all-wheel drive results on an incredible sprint, that from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is 2.0 seconds. Impressive, isn’t it?

And there is good news for the VW team. Scott Speed is returning to take part of the championship after he recorded three victories in 2014 season. As you know, Speed participated in Formula 1 races back in 2006 and 2007 and in NASCAR races in 2008 to 2013. And as you know, he is known for his incredible rally skills and stunt drives.

We all wish him the best of luck and success!

Source: Volkswagen

April 30, 2015

Audi Defends its Leading Position in Illuminating Technology

Audi confidently expands its lightning technology and remains on the leading place. The latest project, called the “intelligent laser light for compact and high-resolution adaptive headlights” and has the ambition to create the headlights of the future. The used technology is called Matrix Laser and will make the road illumination even more flexible and efficient.

Matrix Laser technology is based on the LaserSpot project, that Audi first introduced in the Audi R8 LMX. And now, for the first time bright lasers allow the whole technology to be available in compact and powerful unit, as the headlight is.

The technology itself operates with a micro-mirror, that manages to redirect the laser beam. The dynamics ensure, that when you drive at low speed, you will have a great area in front of you, that is illuminated and when you go on high speed, the angle gets smaller, which results on a higher intensity and range. Handy. As you suggested, this will be extremely helpful gadget, when used on the highway.

Another intelligent feature is the activation and deactivation of the diodes in relation to the mirror position. This makes the illumination beam responsive and dynamic. The idea behind the dynamics is to make the road highly illuminated, while other drivers and pedestrians get reduced glare. Wonderful tech, when it comes to safety and comfort, isn’t it?

There is even a blue laser diodes, that produce their light on a moving mirror, which blends the blue and white lights and projects them on the road. The mirror, used for the blending is a special Bosch unit, that is based on a silicon technology. These same units are used also for the electronic stability control.

In general, Audi really defends its leading positions, when it comes to illuminating technology and the latest product proves it. Tell me what you think in the comment section.

Source: Audi

April 29, 2015

Land Rover Discovery Sport has won Another Competition

Land Rover North America announced, that the 2015 Discovery Sport is named “SUV of the year” by leading publisher Digital Trends. The publisher revealed their three favorite vehicles from some different categories: Car, SUV, Performance, Luxury and Alternative Energy. The award methodology is based on technology, style, safety, value, dynamics and efficiency.

The Discovery Sport is chosen for its wonderful style, midsize, efficiency and the engine technology. With the smart hi-tech units Discovery has won additional points for weight reduction and folding abilities.

Nick Jaynes, Digital Trends Automotive Editor ensures us, that despite the tight federal fuel standards, Americans haven’t lost their love for the SUV machines. He stays determined and confident about the future of SUV models.

The 2015 Discovery Sport SUV brings incredible performance, safety and efficiency features, thanks to the high-strength steel elements, lightweight aluminum and the incredible 240 hp (176 kW) turbocharged 2-liter engine, nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive. The Discovery Sport comes with better volume, proportions and stance. The design combines engineer wonders and dynamic profile, which has incredible space and comfort. The Land Rover Discovery Sport will be on the market next month.

Source: Land Rover

April 29, 2015

Author: Georgi Boychev

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