Katya Mikova – Page 17 – Automobiles Review

BMW 550i – More “Steam” Than M5 Series

The tendency of car-wrapping instead of coloring has been progressing for quite some time now and has been significantly conquering every part of the world. More or less. In relation to this, Fostla at Seelze near Hanover, Germany, is considered to be some sort of a master when it comes to car-wrapping and for this reason, it has been preferred by many customers.

Such example is the BMW 550i F10 which has received not only full wrapping in urban-Taupe-mat-metallic or also gray-olive-mat-metallic but has also gained some substantial power improvements. After the alterations and thanks to the professionally applied foil by the company, the BMW exhibits highly aggressive look. The windows, the front and rear lamps are tinted, while the mounted on the front bumper lip and the rear diffusor are covered in sleek-black. Inside, there is a leather sports steering wheel coated with soft cushioning. It is just one of the features that exemplifies the distinctive custom-made design by Fostla.

In terms of power, the engine of the Bavarian car underwent a PP-Performance refitting which included stage-2 motor electronics modification, downpipes and Vmax unlocking, thus costing 4,299 €. In consequence, there is a power output boosted from 408 HP (300 kW) to 570 PS (419 kW) and a peak torque improved from 600 to 800 Nm. When we compare it to the M5 F10, which brings along 560 HP (412 kW) and the “modest” 680 Nm, we see that the 550i is more powerful.

Additionally, the BMW 550i F10 benefits from wheel-set that consists of Yido Performance YP1 Talia 20 inches in 9×20 ET35 at the front and 10×20 ET35 at the rear axle. This rim set can be purchased for 2,000 €, including a certificate. Finally, Michelin Pilot Sports tires in 245/35ZR20 at the front and 285/30ZR20 at the rear axle are considered to be a high-class wheel-tire-combination.

Source: Miranda-Media

January 5, 2015

Volkswagen Polo Lounge Special Edition in Germany

A new special edition Volkswagen Polo Lounge has been added to the line-up for the German market.

The new Lounge special edition is equipped with a choice of four petrol and three TDI diesel engines. The starting price for the initial 1.0-liter 5-speed model is that of 15,200 EUR (18,140 USD), while the top-of-the-range 90 HP (66 kW) TDI version with DGS gearbox is priced at 20,375 EUR (24,300 USD).

What really distinguishes the special edition from its siblings is the visually improved exterior and interior. The full pack of enhancements includes dark red rear lights, a set of silver 15-inches ‘Novara’ alloy wheels, gloss black front grille, ‘Lounge’ badges and dark-tinted windows in the rear.

Inside the cabin, the vehicle is fitted with ‘Deep Inox’ center console patterns, cruise control system, rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate system known as ‘Climatronic’, auto-dimming rear view mirror, infotainment system with six speakers and ‘coming home’ headlight function. The 2014 Volkswagen Polo Lounge special edition is further outlined by ‘Lounge’ floor mats, ‘Tartan’ upholstery and leather-trimmed steering wheel, hand-brake and gearknob.

The Polo Lounge represents one of the Volkswagen’s new Club and Lounge new special edition vehicles which were introduced this month by Volkswagen’s new Marketing Manager Robbie Williams.

Source: polodriver

January 5, 2015

2015 Mazda CX-5 Arrives with Upgrades

2015 Mazda CX-5 is ready to impress customers with some significant interior and exterior enhancements. The line-up is available in three grades: SE-L, SE-L Lux and Sport Nav. The range includes three 2.0 liter petrol two-wheel drive variants equipped with six-speed manual transmissions, and thirteen 2.2 liter diesel versions – six of which are available with all-wheel drive. They are equipped with a choice of six speed manual or automatic transmissions. The compact SUV delivers uncompromising fuel economy and low CO₂ emissions while still demonstrating excellent performance and driving dynamics.

The conventional stock equipment of every model in the CX-5 range has been improved thanks to the new manual front passenger seat height adjustment, an electronic parking brake, a coming/leaving home headlamp function, and the company’s Multimedia Commander that has separate volume dial for safe, intuitive interactivity and infotainment control.

Internet connectivity is made easier now due to the new 7-inch, full-color and center console touch-screen that incorporates DAB radio, two ports for USB connectivity and MZD Connect.

The range-topping Sport Nav models take advantage of new exterior features which are comprised of 19-inch Gunmetal alloy wheels, LED headlamps including LED daytime running lights, and LED foglamps. There is also a new Integrated Navigation system that offers refined accuracy, advanced search features and three years of free map updating.

Moreover, the already existing Lane Departure Warning system on Mazda CX-5 is built on by Lane-keep Assist System (LAS) with Driver Attention Alert (DAA), thus providing steering wheel vibration and assisted steering if the driver rides off from the middle of the selected lane. Finally, improved Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert systems (BSMw/RCTA) are also available.

Source: Mazda

January 5, 2015

Infiniti Reveals Q60 Concept

Infiniti takes the wraps off its Q60 Concept ahead of the 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. What we are presented with is definitely a stunning coupe which shines with genuine sportiness and style. The combination between edgy exterior contours, well-crafted handmade interior and excellent performance characteristics results in “a no-compromise fusion of looks and speed.”

Even though Infiniti Q60 Concept fumes with significant freshness and newness, it somehow points back to the bespoke Infiniti Q80 Inspiration that was revealed in October at the Paris Motor Show. The resemblance is evident in the finest details and craftsmanship of the exterior, especially when we examine the sides of the car. The curved and somewhat sweeping lines underline the sporty personalities of both vehicles.

On the outside, the acute lines of the concept are further complimented by low roofline as well as custom 21-inch wheels. The black spokes in a combination of mattes and chromes are inspired by jet turbine blades. They stretch to the edge of the wheel and put emphasis on the style of the coupe. Inside, the Q60 Concept benefits from elegant high-quality leather seats which are inherited from the full-size Q80 Inspiration. The hand-stitched leather and carbon fiber accents speak for ultimate workmanship which defines the distinctive design of the Q60.

Infiniti Q60 Concept can be seen when Infiniti holds its 2015 NAIAS press conference at 8:10am on Tuesday, January 13^th.

Source: Infiniti

January 5, 2015

2015 MG GTS Unveiled

MG has finally taken the wraps off its GTS crossover which is planned to go on sale in China next year. This is the first ever production SUV which for now we can see only in a series of images.

2015 MG GTS will come with a four-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbo engine that is able to develop 217 bhp (162 kW) and 349 Nm (258 lb-ft) of maximum torque. The power output will be transmitted to the wheels through a dual-clutch six-speed transmission that works along with an all-wheel drive on-demand system. The crossover will be capable of accelerating from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 8 seconds.

Later on, the vehicle is said to receive the newly developed GDI engines by MG. The range starts out with a 3-cylinder 1.0-liter power unit. Furthermore, there are going to be larger 1.4- and 1.5-liter petrol motors which will be able to produce about 165 kW and 250 Nm of peak torque.

The stylish new five-seater is scheduled to reach the Chinese showrooms in May, 2015 and it is essentially the production version of the CS concept which was revealed last year at the 2013 Shangai Motor Show. More information is yet to be announced.

Source: MG

December 30, 2014

Sneak Preview of 2015 Donkervoort D8 GTO Bilster Berg Edition

2014 has been one very remarkable and successful year for Donkervoort. Pretty much since the start of the year, Donkervoort GTOs have managed to win the automaker some memorable moments. For instance, the D8 GTO was part of the latest racing game from the well-known Forza Motorsport series for Microsoft Xbox.

With the opening of the new branch in Germany, Donkervoort scored yet another great achievement. The exclusive location of the branch turned out to be a huge plus as it offered the opportunity for further auto tests at the Bilster Berg circuit in 2014. Eventually, the D8 GTO “clocked the fastest lap times and on more than one occasion left all the other ‘Supercar’ competitors in its dust.”

In order to celebrate all of these accomplishments, Donkervoort is revealing a special edition of this D8 GTO dubbed the Donkervoort GTO Bilster Berg Edition. Yet, it is not exactly revealing as we can only see a teaser image that is barely enough for the craving souls of Donkervoort fans. All that can be noticed from the shadowy sneak preview is the possibility for a unique front fascia with a redesigned nose. The car will be produced in a limited series of just 14 units. The number is not accidental for it signifies the victorious year.

The D8 GTO Bilster Berg Edition is going into production in 2015. Stay tuned for more information.

Source: Donkervoort

December 30, 2014

Meet the Bulgarian Sin [VIDEO]

Is it possible to be too good-looking? I don’t think so. It is just as attractive as it should be and just as fast as it needs. This is Sin R1, the first Bulgarian supercar.

Being the brainchild of a company owner and racer (in his spare time) Rosen Daskalov, this hot yellow beast stings with its appearance and power. Sin R1 is a product that is being manufactured in a collaborative work with Daventry-based firm Proformance. The company provides raw materials for the motorsport branch and is now basically the UK supporter of Sin cars. The production of the Prototype model is based in the homeland of Daskalov, Bulgaria, but the completed car will be manufactured in Germany.

Power comes a LS3 V8 engine, provided from General Motors and is the same as that used in the Chevrolet Camaro SS). It pushes out 420 bhp. The race car is equipped with the 7.0-litre LS7 engine from the same range, thus, producing about 610 bhp. The hardware grants 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) run in 3.5 seconds and 0-124 mph in 9.7 seconds. Top speed is said to be approximately 186 mph.

The “supercar-ness” of the R1 springs out from every curve and line of its body-look which is characterized by an edgy angular nose, raised arches, adjustable rear wing and a swooping hood.

Sin R1 does not betray the characteristics and virtues of a real race-ready machine which is able to propel some significant power. Even though it isn’t Lamborghini or Ferrari, it looks like a proper member of the supercars’ family and performs like one as well!

The price of the Sin R1 is said to be £60 000.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqX6L0nvVpM

Source: Sincars

December 30, 2014

Audi Exclusive Shows Customized RS6 Avant

New images of the bespoke Audi RS6 Avant have been released by Audi Exclusive, showing a notable customization. Judging by what is presented to us in the photos, the super-wagon has received a number of cool and refreshing touches which make it look quite sinister.

Power is provided by the familiar twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine which is able to boost 560 PS (412 kW) and a peak torque of 700 Nm (516 lb-ft). The power unit is mated to an eight-speed tiptronic transmission and a quattro all-wheel drive system. The car is able to speed up from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.9 seconds before scoring a top speed of up to 305 km/h (189 mph).

The nature of the RS6 Avant is highlighted by matte gray exterior with carbon fiber on the mirror caps and grilles. Moreover, the model benefits from sleek black alloy wheels. The encompassing sense of sportiness is continued and preserved in the interior too. The cabin consists of stylish black leather seats and carbon fiber trim. There is also salient yellow stitching which can be seen on the dashboard, center console, door panels and seats of the car.

Source: Audi via Facebook

December 30, 2014

2015 Mazda Carol Introduced in Japan

Mazda has revealed the 2015 Mazda Carol in Japan but I personally wish it actually hadn’t done it. The car depicts straightforward and plain design which does not really please the eye. There is a sort of rigidness that makes the Carol look like a figure beaten out of a stone.

In terms of power, Mazda Carol is equipped with a 660cc engine that generates 49 PS (36 kW) and 58 Nm (42 lb-ft) of maximum torque. Yet, there is a VVT variant which produces 52 PS (38 kW) and 63 Nm (46 lb-ft) of torque. The lack of power though seems to be compromised by its efficiency rates for the entry-level vehicle returns 27.2 km/L (3.6 L/100km / 63.9 mpg US / 76.8 mpg UK), while the VVT variant returns 37.0km / L (2.7 L/100km / 87 mpg US / 104.5 mpg UK).

There isn’t much to add about the features available for the car. The entry-level version arrives with air conditioning, keyless entry and a 2-speaker audio system. Still though, trying to break this automotive boredom of the vehicle, Mazda has equipped the higher-end models with power windows, a tilt steering wheel and heated front seats as well.

The starting price for the Mazda Carol is ¥847,800 ($7,026 / €5,763 / £4,529) and it is going on sale on January 30^th.

Source: Mazda

December 30, 2014

BMW Innovations at Consumer Electronics Show 2015

After its successful launch in Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany, the BMW ConnectedDrive Store is now going to be presented in the USA in spring 2015.

As it seems, the connection between the person who is driving, the car and the environment is of a great importance to the automaker. In its attempts to make such connectivity even more flexible and reachable, the BMW team of specialists creates an extremely useful and easy to access range of digital features and services which are part of the BMW ConnectedDrive. Moreover, the store has its own menu option under ConnectedDrive or BMW Online, which can be selected via the iDrive Controller.

But how can a driver benefit from such services? The huge number of connectivity solutions can be ordered online by using the “My ConnectedDrive” customer portal. What is more, for further convenience different apps and services are also available right from the car via the BMW ConnectedDrive menu. For instance, one of the highly helpful functions is the Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI). In a situation when the driver gets stuck in a traffic and cannot rely on traffic news on the radio which sometimes happen to be incorrect, he or she can install the RTTI and take advantage of the accurate information which is presented.

In order to use the BMW ConnectedDrive Store, the driver is required to integrate and connect a SIM card into the vehicle. The SIM card is also needed for the Intelligent Emergency Call service, which establishes contact with a BMW Call Centre if an accident occurs.

Source: BMW

December 29, 2014

2015 Honda CR-V Gets New Powertrain and New Technology

Bolder and sportier than ever, the new 2015 Honda CR-V comes with a refreshed style, enhanced engine line-up and new technologies all of which contribute to the remarkable road presence of the car.

Thanks to the new 1.6-litre i-DTEC four-cylinder diesel engine, from Honda’s Earth Dreams Technologyseries, the power of the four-wheel drive CR-V is boosted to 160 PS while the maximum torque is that of 350 Nm. There is a choice of two transmissions: a six-speed manual that produces a class-leading sub 130g/km of CO₂ emissions, or a new nine-speed automatic transmission. The latter emits less than 135 g/km of CO₂.

The two-wheel drive diesel CR-V is powered by the 120 PS 1.6 litre i-DTEC engine with emissions as low as 115 g/km. Nevertheless, the 2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine which develops 155 PS is still available.

Some of the most visible alterations are seen on the front due to the restyled headlamps flowing into the new grille. What is more, the appearance of the CR-V is further improved thanks to the new bumper and skid plate. The LED combination lamps at the rear have been reworked too and now provide the 2015 Honda CR-V with “a more fluid, three-dimensional appearance.”

In terms of technology, European buyers will take advantage of the first use of Honda Connect which represents the company‘s innovative new app-driven infotainment system. It includes: internet access, nine pre-installed apps – as well as access to the Honda App Center – optional Garmin satellite navigation, audio display, AM/FM/DAB and internet radio, phone interface and Bluetooth connectivity. Finally, it offers a rear-view parking camera with functional guidelines, as well as vehicle information like trip meter, fuel economy and journey time.

Source: Honda

December 29, 2014

Ford Mustang III Shorty Factory Prototype to be Auctioned

A beauty from the past is going to be auctioned by Actions America in March, 2015. The vehicle in question is the 1964 1/2 Ford Mustang III “Shorty” factory prototype. It is a car that real collectors dream about and it is arguably the most historically-significant Ford Mustang which has been ever offered for sale.

Under the hoot, there is a Mustang 260 V8 engine which is bored out to 302 cubic inches (5.0 liters). The power unit is packed with three carburetors and is mated to a specially strengthened and reworked automatic transmission. There is also independent front suspension, hypoid rear axle, and hydraulic front disc and rear drum brakes.

The car is styled by Vince E. Gardner and is based on a pre-production 1965 Mustang. Moreover, it embodies well-crafted design with excellently proportioned bodylines which still reflect on the nature of the base model. Still though, it is called “Shorty” for a reason. The factory prototype has 406 mm (16 inches) smaller wheelbase which makes it shorter than the original vehicle. In addition to this, 1964 1/2 Ford Mustang III features a bespoke rear and an entire body built from fiberglass.

Lastly, there is an interesting story behind this Ford Mustang. Because Ford did not plan an official production of the car and decided to destroy it instead, Gardner stole the vehicle from its warehouse and hid it in another building. He paid rent for the first month only and never bothered to pay for the rest of the time when he used the place. Here is when the story becomes more intriguing. Because of this the owner tore down the wall behind which stood the stolen Mustang III. He then notified the police about the car. The Ford Mustang Shorty was purchased by an employee of an insurance company who later on sold it to its current owner.

Source: Auctions America

December 29, 2014

Author: Katya Mikova