Katya Mikova – Automobiles Review

SCG 003 Stradale and Competizione Officially Unveiled

The Glickenhaus automotive empire has taken the wraps off the road-going SCG 003S and its track-only brother, the SCG 003C. The S in the name stands for Stradale, while the C in the name of the other vehicle means Competizone. Both of these beasts are going to be officially presented during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show next week.

Looking properly hungry for power, the race car is going to be powered by an improved version of Honda‘s prominent V6 3.5-liter twin-turbo engine. Horsepower and torque output are not known for sure but the engine is expected to be capable of producing around 530 HP (389,5 kW) at 6,800 rpm with a maximum torque of 700 Nm (516,8 lb-ft) at 4,500 rpm.

The power unit is also thought to be coupled to a Hewland paddle shift transmission which sends power to the rear wheels. The Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus SCG 003C weighs only 1,350 kg (2,976 lbs) and rides on 18-inch wheels. According to the automaker, this model can be made into a road car.

There is no information regarding the road-going SCG003S and what engine it is going to adopt, but it was reported that it is going to be a totally different twin-turbocharged V6.

Other specifics are yet to be announced so stay around!

Source: Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus

February 27, 2015

Volkswagen Reveals Unique Amarok Ambulance

Often conventional vehicles can’t reach all areas and in emergency situations this becomes an issue. Fortunately, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles comes to the rescue by creating a unique VolkswagenAmarok ambulance for the East Midlands Ambulance Service in the United Kingdom. The new Volkswagen ambulance has the purpose to overcome different driving challenges presented by the beaten track and to help patients more quickly.

The car also benefits from a 4MOTION all-wheel drive and a snorkel which helps it drive through water up to 500 mm deep. What is more, this response model is also fitted with life-saving medical equipment and a load area which allows for the safe transportation of patients.

Just as a reminder, VW Amarok shows plenty of personality under the engine compartment lid as well. The model offers a choice of a fuel-efficient 2.0 l TDI diesel with 140 hp (103 kW) and a 2.0 l BiTDI engine that is capable of delivering 180 hp (132 kW) with a maximum torque of up to 420 Nm (310 lb-ft). Each of the power units has an updated rail technology which guarantees greater smoothness when on the move as well as more efficiency. Moreover, they are mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard.

Being UK’s first fully converted Volkswagen Amarok, it is expected to enter service very soon.

Source: Volkswagen

February 27, 2015

See the Transformed ABT Volkswagen Passat B8

Looking far more aggressive and assertive than before, Volkswagen Passat B8 receives some enhancements from ABT. The tuning package for the new generation VW combines elegance style and excellent performance which design a car that is really attractive. Performance-wise, the tuners from Bavaria could be said to add a lot. The ABT latest engine technology is represented by a 2.0 TDI engine which offers utmost power, reliability and balance. The power unit boosts the initial power of 240 HP (176 kW) to 280 HP (206 kW).

The sporty flavor of the ABT Volkswagen Passat B8 can be sensed not only under the hood but on the outside as well. Thus, the wagon takes advantage of an aerodynamic body kit which features a front lip spoiler, improved side skirts and revised rear spoiler. The latter can be ordered for both the limo and the estate models in different variants.

Additionally, buyers can purchase new sport springs, mirror caps and a sports exhaust system. Lastly, the last components which add an underlining finishing touch to the style of the Volkswagen Passat B8 are the ABT-branded floor mats and 20- or 21-inch alloy wheels fitted with sports tyres in 245/35 ZR20 or 255/30 ZR20 dimensions.

Source: ABT

February 27, 2015

Mercedes-Benz G-Class is FABulous Thanks to FAB Design

FAB Design knows how to make cars look just FABulous and now two Mercedes-Benz models, G55 and G63 AMG, have been lucky enough to get some improvements. Firstly, there is a power upgrade which enables the Mercedes-Benz G55 to boost 530 HP (390 kW) with a peak torque of 775 Nm (572 lb-ft) while the upgraded Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG is capable of cranking out up to 620 HP (456 kW) and 820 Nm (605 lb-ft) of maximum torque.

The G-class remains one of the biggest attention-grabbers among tuners. Thanks to FAB Design, the four-wheel drive luxury SUVs gain one-off bodies which are crafted out of carbon fiber components. Precisely, the improvements on the outside are comprised of bespoke front and rear spoilers, tweaked side skirts and bigger wheel arches which can take advantage of 23-inch wheels in 305/55 R23 tires.

Even though the tuner hasn’t shared any images of the interior, they confirmed that the G55 and G63 AMG benefit from Alcantara and custom leather. What is more, inside there are accentuating carbon fiber elements as well. An additional storage room is possible thanks to the special tire failure which replaces the spare wheel.

What do you think of the reworked models? Are they better than before?

Source: FAB Design

February 26, 2015

Mini Clubman Vision Gran Turismo: Small but Furious

MINI has officially unveiled the Clubman Vision Gran Turismo virtual racecar that will be available in the Gran Turismo 6 video game for PlayStation 3. It is based on the Clubman, as the title suggests, but with the notable difference that it has more distinguished design. Made for the virtual reality, the Clubman Gran Turismo concept is imagined to take its power from an unspecified engine which is capable of delivering 395 HP.

This power output is sent to a permanent all-wheel drive system using a six-speed sequential gearbox. With such figures, the car is able to speed up from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in the impressive 3.5 seconds before hitting a top speed of 180 mph (290 km/h).

Visually, MINI’s Gran Turismo arrives with an appealing style which transforms driving into a real pleasure. The car features striking split doors, huge air inlets and air ducting surfaces, front splitters which are there to regulate airflow and to cool the engine.

Also, the carbon fiber front apron as well as the flat underbody serve to reduce air resistance. The aggressively-shaped front is complimented by LED headlights that feature an “X” layout while the back of the car is highlighted by LED taillights with an interesting filigree design.

Finally, MINI Clubman Vision Gran Turismo moves on wide 22-inch bi-color alloy wheels.

Source: MINI

February 26, 2015

Magna Steyr Returns with Mila Plus Hybrid Concept

The Austrian manufacturer Magna Steyr has introduced its Mila Plus hybrid concept along with some specifics and a few images. The premiere of the car will be at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show next week. In terms of power, this machine has a hybrid system that includes a 3-cylinder petrol engine and two separate electric motors for each axle. We still don’t know how much power they are going to deliver, but the Mila Plus is said to be able to speed up from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.9 seconds in hybrid mode.

The all-electric mode, on the other hand, enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 50 mph (0-80 km/h) in 3.6 seconds. A total driving range of approximately 500 km (310 miles) is expected to be delivered, thus including more than 70 km (43.5 miles) in all-electric mode. The average CO2 emissions are 32 grams per kilometer.

As the carmaker explains, the innovative Magna Steyr Mila Plus is a two-seater sports car that has a weigh of 1,520 kg. Moreover, the automobile arrives with an aluminum frame fitted with batteries that will increase the overall stiffness.

Interestingly enough, the chassis components as well as parts of the interior are said to be completely recyclable. And this is what’s really exciting!

More details will be revealed soon!

Source: Magna Steyr

February 26, 2015

Italdesign Giugiaro GEA Concept Teased Again Before Geneva [VIDEO]

Prior to the official debut during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show next month, Italdesign Giugiaro has shared another teaser of its new model this time in the shape of a video. Described as “the future luxury mobility vision”, the GEA Concept turns into a subject that raises a lot of questions and gives no answers so far. Some time ago, the manufacturer released an image that showed nothing else but the red paint work of the car as well as the prominent logo of the brand.

No other specifications have been shared for now which is pretty annoying really as the expectations become more and more. Now, the released video shows nothing but some unclear outlines and teases with the silhouette contours of the car. Expected to focus primarily on the idea of luxury, we hope that the new Italdesign Giugiaro GEA Concept won’t be one huge disappointment.

If you remember though, last year the company with sofisticated name introduced its Clipper Concept. The vehicle represented a sport MPV which was fitted with an electric powertrain. It consisted of two 110 kW engines with one at the front and one at the rear. The Italdesign Giugiaro Clipper Concept had a four-wheel drive and independent wheels.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaV-plBX8_U

Source: Italdesign Giugiaro via Youtube

February 26, 2015

Forget the Teasers! 2016 Audi R8 is Finally Here!

It is finally here! Audi took the wraps off of its newest model named Audi R8. It will be debuting during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show next week, promising to deliver a genuine definition of an evolutionary styling and driving capabilities. The overhauled second generation R8 is powered by an improved V10 5.2-liter FSI naturally aspirated power unit which offers 540 HP (397 kW) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of maximum torque in the base model, and generates 610 HP (449 kW) with a peak torque of 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) in the V10 Plus variant.

When we talk about performance, the revamped Audi R8 needs exactly 3.5 seconds to sprint from standstill to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) before hitting a top speed of 200 mph (320 km/h). Thanks to the Plus mode, this run is covered in 3.2 seconds, thus hitting the 205 mph (330 km/h). The car consumes 11.8 liters per 100 km on average (19.9 mpg US or 23.9 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 275 g/km.

The R8 V10 Plus consumes 12.4 liters per 100 km (18.9 mpg US or 22.7 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 289 g/km. Both engines are mated to a revised seven-speed S tronic gearbox. It has three automatic modes and manual control and transmits power to a permanent quattro all-wheel drive system fitted with a front electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch.

Arriving with a lighter aluminum body, the long-awaited 2016 Audi R8 is 4.42 meters long (14.5 ft), 1.24 meters high (4.1 ft) and has a relatively short a wheelbase measuring 2.65 meters (8.7 ft). With prominent proportions, the car exhibits sufficient amount of sportiness and characteristics suitable for a real race car. We can see a signelframe front grille, familiar flat LED headlights which can be replaced by optional laser lighting clusters with extended range of up to 600 meters.

Moving to the side profile, this high-performance sports car has curvy lines that continue to the wheels. The prominent shoulder line is formed like a “powerful muscle” and connects the wheels with one another, while dividing the side blades in two. This makes the car appear longer and lends it a more dynamic presence.

At the back, the LED taillights give the vehicle a more mature and serious outline. Also, there is a retractable rear spoiler. The Plus model impresses with a new wing made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). The base model moves on 19-inch wheels with 245/35 front and 295/35 rear tires with 20-inch alloys with 245/30 & 305/30 tires available as an option.

In terms of the interior, when we step inside the Audi R8 it feels like we step inside Heaven. The cabin benefits from new bucket seats with stylish looks and a driver-focused cockpit. The latter features a configurable 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit which replaces the tons of buttons and knobs. Buyers are given the opportunity to select either Alcantara, pearl Nappa leather or fine Nappa leather upholsteries.

Set to go on sale this summer, the new Audi R8 has the starting price of €165,000 for the standard model and €187,400 for the Audi R8 V10 Plus.

Source: Audi

February 26, 2015

GTA Spano Teased Once Again

Is it the day of the holy teasers today? Because so far teaser images of soon–to–be–officially–introduced vehicles have been rolling around like money on Wall Street! Another company that decided to tease its awaiting fans is GTA Motor that has just released a picture of its newest Spania GTA Spano. Showcasing a sophisticated front fascia and promising to dazzle us with the most advanced technology and exotic material known as “graphene,” this model is ready for its debut during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show in March.

Quoting the officially revealed specifics not too long ago, the GTA Spano will feature a brand new V10 twin Turbo engine with 7,990 cm3 displacement. It will be capable of boosting out the screaming 925 HP (680 kW) with a peak torque of 1220 Nm (990 Nm). These figures will allow the car to speed up from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of more than 370 km/h. Impressive, isn’t it?

The chassis and bodywork are examples of a revolutionary and ground-breaking approach when it comes to the construction of the car. Precisely, the model is composed of carbon fiber, titanium, Kevlar and graphene which really depict what true craftsmanship stands for.

There is going to be a limited production of just 99 vehicles.

Source: Spania GTA

February 24, 2015

2015 Subaru Forester Gets Engine and Interior Updates

Subaru has revealed further details of the upgraded 2015 Subaru Forester which is going on sale in the UK on 1 April. The car arrives with a new powertrain and enhanced cabin. The decision to pair the well-known 2.0-litre horizontally-opposed ‘Boxer’ diesel engine with a diesel-Lineartronic CVT (continuously-variable transmission) powertrain turns out to be more than just a useful idea because this way the car receives boosted off-road capabilities and can offer smoother and more relaxing drive.

Matched to the standard All-Wheel Drive drivetrain, the Lineartronic also brings the prominent Subaru’s Hill Descent Control (HDC) and the X-Mode system. They help the car deal with extremely slippery roads and manage the Forester’s brakes, torque and drivetrain. But exactly how powerful is the Boxer diesel engine? It delivers precisely 148 hp (109 kW) with 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque.

The Lineartronic transmission fitted to the 2015 Forester’s 2.0-litre diesel engine is the same high-capacity CVT found on the powerful 240 PS XT Turbo model, and is engineered to manage the diesel engine’s high 350 Nm torque output. Thanks to the new unit-gearbox combination, the updated Subaru Forester will return 46.3 mpg and 158 g/km CO2 on the combined cycle. Moreover, the vehicle is able to accelerate from 0 62 mph in 9.6 seconds. Models fitted with a diesel engine mated to a standard six-speed manual can return 49.6 mpg and 148 g/km CO2 on the combined cycle. The 0-62 mph run is covered in 9.8 seconds.

While the exterior of the Subaru Forester is pretty much unchanged, the interior gains some notable alterations. It features 7.0-inch touchscreen, fitted as standard to all XC, AC Premium and XT trims. The automobile takes advantage of factory-fit touchscreen infotainment and a new navigation system. Finally, there are innovative pioneer dealer-fit options as well. The starting price of the 2.0D X Lineartronic is that of £26,495.

Source: Subaru

February 24, 2015

Aston Martin Vulcan Breathes Out Fire and Power [VIDEO]

Earlier this month Aston Martin shared that the world is going to see something outstanding, something special, something that will melt the air and will urge time to stop just so people can take a long breath while looking in amazement at the new automotive beast. Releasing a new teaser video, the automaker showed us what kind of an aggressiveness to expect soon. Of course, the debut of the vehicle will take place during the 2015 Geneva Auto Show next week.

Determined to conquer the world, the new Aston Martin Vulcan is going to be track only, which will turn it into a potential competitor for the McLaren P1 GTR and Ferrari FXX K. According to the British sports car builder, this hypercar is expected to be the most extreme model in the 102-year history of the brand. And after viewing the video it is hard to disagree with this statement.

Showing off with a massive racing rear wing as well as beefed up and the more masculine body, the new Vulcan revs the engines while its side exhausts breathe out flames which can burn the senses of every adrenaline-lover.

Other details about this powerful Aston Martin reveal that the car is expected to be produced in less than 30 units. More information is yet to come meanwhile enjoy the craziness of the Vulcan in the video bellow.

httpv://youtu.be/ktD_ueZtReg

Source: Aston Martin via Youtube

February 24, 2015

Is Nissan Sway Concept as Good as the Qashqai?

During the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, Nissan is going to introduce its Sway concept vehicle which is the next addition to the other automobiles in the small segment. It is envisioned as a model which has the right place next to cars such as Volkswagen Polo or Ford Fiesta. Nissan Sway concept is said to be a representation of what the future models of the small Nissan family might look like. The implementation of a striking new design language will help the company craft out an exemplary of compactness and comfort which come together and serve to offer exclusive driving experience.

Observing the revealed teaser image, we do suspect that the next gen Micra is not going to inherit the same design as its predecessor that received a facelift in 2013. Instead, the real and proper version will adopt plainer, simpler, less dramatic and more convenience-oriented structure which still will be able to exhibit plenty of improvements.

Finally, designed for Europe, the new small hatchback will convey pretty much the same “radical thinking and quality standards” which were possessed by Qashqai and Juke. And if it absorbs those quality characteristics in the same way, Nissan Sway is going to be just as successful as the previously mentioned models.

There aren’t any other details available so far but there is more to come soon so stay around!

Source: Nissan

February 24, 2015

Author: Katya Mikova