Katya Mikova – Page 20 – Automobiles Review

All-new Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine: The Most Powerful and Cleanest SUV Around the World

When creating the Volvo XC90 T8, the automaker climbs one step up in the automotive industry. The car is not deprived of any quality and performance features. On the contrary, it demonstrates sufficient stability, dynamics and class.

The spacious 7-seater SUV delivers 400hp and a peak torque of 640Nm combined with ultra-low emissions of 59g/km (TBC). With such power, the SUV can speed up to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 5.9 seconds which is pretty impressive for a car of this size. Let’s not forget to mention that there is an 82 horsepower 240 Nm (117 lb-ft) electric motor which is placed on the rear axle and it drives the rear wheels. Yet, is the Volvo XC90 T8 as environmentally friendly as it is proclaimed to be?

Despite the lack of official data, in-house testing has demonstrated that this powertrain can produce 59 grams of CO2 per kilometer. Looking at the statement, the answer to the question above is “yes”. The family car definitely delivers the best overall fuel consumption and is eco-friendly.

Additionally, the car offers five different driving modes for unique driving experience. Drivers can choose from: Hybrid, Pure electric, Power mode, AWD and Save.

Under the hood, this Volvo features is equipped with: Drive-E engine, 8-speed automatic gearbox, crankshaft-mounted starter generator (CISG), high-voltage (270–400V) battery, delivering 65kW of power, rear electric motor, two-step braking system, one-of-a-kind cooling and climate system, pre-conditioning. The latter can be done while the car is plugged-in which really allows the battery to last as long as possible in Pure Electric Drive mode.

Source: Volvo

December 8, 2014

Impressive Crash Prevention System by Volvo

City Safety becomes one of the most developed, useful and enhanced crash prevention system which is standard in the all-new Volvo XC90. The system is active at all speeds from 4 km/h (2.5 mph) and it turns into the umbrella name for all Volvo’s auto brake functions.

The purpose of the Volvo City Safety system is to help and guide the driver by using an intuitive warning method as well as a brake support system. In a situation when the driver cannot respond right away, the system will provide automatic braking. Precisely, the system functions include:

Addressing Oncoming vehicles, including motorcycles and cycles, when the driver turns left (or right in left-hand traffic). City Safety then can note a possible crash and brakes automatically in order to avoid a collision.
Noting vehicles, including motorcycles, travelling in the same direction. City Safety can avoid an impact if the relative speed difference between the two vehicles is up to 50 km/h (31 mph). At higher speeds, the automatic braking reduces the consequences of the collision.
Addressing cyclists crossing the path of the car or suddenly swerving out in front it. Depending on the situation, City Safety is able to avoid a collision if the relative speed difference is up to 45 km/h (28 mph). At higher speeds, the automatic braking can mitigate the consequences of the collision.
Observing pedestrians walking out in front of the car. The system is able to avoid a collision at speeds up to 45 km/h (28 mph). At higher speeds, the automatic braking can help mitigate the consequences of the collision.

The excellent functions of the safety system also feature detection in darkness thanks to the integrated camera and radar which is able to monitor objects in front of the car and to determine their distance and movement.

Source: Volvo

December 8, 2014

Pricing and Specifications for the New Calerio

The all-new global compact Suzuki Calerio is going on sale in the UK from February the upcoming year. Its starting price is set to be the modest sum of just £7,999 for the SZ3 model and £8,999 for the SZ4.

CO₂ emissions of the Calerio are as low as 99g/km and 65.7mpg on the EC combined cycle. The vehicle is powerted by 1.0-litre three cylinder 68PS engine. Nevertheless, a new engine will be available next summer and it will be offering higher combined fuel economy of 78.4 mpg and CO₂ emissions that drop to 84g/km due to the introduction of Suzuki’s new Dualjet engine technology. This engine will also feature a stop start facility when stationary.

The height of 1,540mm and a non-slanting roofline are the reasons for more headroom for occupants. Moreover, the 2,425mm long wheelbase offers a tandem distance of 743mm. This results in more than enough space in the cabin which is able to accommodate five occupants. Thanks to the design and excellently done work, Suzuki is offering a vehicle that comes with a convenient and roomy interior. The compact body is just 3,600mm in length and has a width of 1,600mm. Suzuki Calerio has a turning circle of 9.4 meters.

Some of the typical specifications for the Celerio SZ3 are comprised of six airbags (Driver, passenger, side and curtain), ESP*, air conditioning, alloy wheels, DAB Radio, CD Tuner, USB, Bluetooth connectivity and remote central locking. Additionally, the Suzuki SZ4 model is equipped with polished alloy wheels, rear electric windows, front fog lamps, body colored door mirrors and chrome front grille.

Source: Suzuki

December 8, 2014

Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG 4Matic S Improved by Vaeth

VAETH is considered to be one of the best Mercedes-Benz specialists which really knows how and what to give to Mercedes models. The tuner demonstrates sufficient skills and craftsmanship when it comes to car ennobling, power enhancement, exhaust systems, chassis, light alloy rims, carbon aerodynamics, interior and many more.

Now VAETH is redirecting its specialists gaze towards Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG 4Matic S giving it finishing touches that enhance the model’s performance. The basic engine of the vehicle produces 585 HP (430 kW) but with the VAETH tuning kit, the Swabian model comes to the mind-blowing capacity of 750 HP (551 kW) and electronically limited 1,000 Nm of peak torque. This results in Vmax of 350 kmph (220 mph). As an option, there is a MOT/certified version with 680 HP (500 kW) available as well.

What does the kit of the tuned Mercedes-Benz V 63 RS Export comprise of though? It offers modified VAETH turbo charger, VAETH oil chilling system, a downpipe system which reduces exhaust counter pressure and increases the engine power and a VAETH axle back exhaust. It costs 24,740.00 Euro.

There is an optional lowering by 20…40 mm using corresponding springs with coilovers on the front axle and electronic adaption of the rear axle for 1,166.20 Euro (plus 297.50 Euro for mounting including axle alignment).

Three part forged rims with tinted in titan stars, in 9.0 x 20 innches on the front axle have been installed too. They come with tires 265/30ZR20 (1,542.24 Euro). On the rear axle there is 11.0 x 20 inches rims with tires 305/25ZR20 (1,832.60 Euro).

The initial interior parts, such as air conditioner frame, ashtray cover in front, central cover panel, controller frame, door frames left and right, fan frame left and central decoration cover panel are highlighted in classic black carbon. This alterations costs 3,927.00 Euro plus 238.00 Euro for mounting.

Source: Miranda Media

December 8, 2014

2015 Willys AW 380 Berlinetta Unveiled with Retro Styling

Maggiora and Carrozzeria Viotti team up and unveil the 2015 Willys AW 380 Berlinetta at the Bologna Motor Show.

Does it remind you a little bit of Renault Alpine A108 but in a modern way? Well, don’t be surprised because in the past Willys built 822 units of a vehicle called Interlagos that was, in fact, based on the Alpine. The 2015 Willys AW 380 Berlinetta represents a contemporary interpretation of a classic design. It is not just a show-car though beucase it will undergo a production, LIMITED, of only 110 units. The starting price is that of €380,000.

Let’s face some performance specifications now. Willys AW 380 Berlinetta is powered by a 3.8-liter bi-turbo six-cylinder engine which generates 610 bhp (455 kW) and 830 Nm (612 lb-ft). The carbon fiber body brings a total weight of only 1,350 kg (2,976 lbs). The sprint time from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) takes 2.7 seconds, before it reaches 212 mph (340 km/h).

The car arrives with a MacPherson struts front suspension with a multi-link rear arrangement. The ceramic composite brakes feature 380mm front and 360mm rear discs as well as six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers.

The vehicle benefits from 2418mm wheelbase and 19-inch front / 20-inch rear alloy wheels which are wrapped around in Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires. It is said to consume about 18.9 liters / 100 km in the city and 9.2 liters / 100 km on the highway.

Source: Maggiora and Carrozzeria Viotti

December 5, 2014

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Opens for Ordering

The first volume production B-Class Electric Drive by Mercedes-Benz can be ordered from the present day on. There are two model lines – Sport and Electric Art.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is capable of travelling up to 142 miles on a single charge and can speed up from 0 to 62 mph in 7.9 seconds due to its electric motor which develops 180 HP and 340 NM of torque. With the Tesla-developed technology, the B-Class Electric Drive represents the fastest accelerating five-seat electric car in its range. Still though, it preserves all the flexibility of the B-Class on which it’s based. The car has enough space to carry five adults and a 501-litre boot – rising to 1,456-litres when the seats are folded down.

Prices for the B-Class Electric Drive start at £31,950 for the Sport model. Subject to approval, an OLEV grant (£5,000) can be applied, reducing the price to £26,950. The Electric Art has a starting price of £32,245 which will be reduced to £27,245 if the OLEV grant is applied.

The Sport model is equipped with an original design for the front and rear bumpers, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, a seven-inch central display, Artico trim, automatic climate control, a reversing camera and cruise control. This model is available in eight paint colors.

The Electric Art model does not have the same variety of colors like the Sport. It comes in either Cirrus White or South Seas Blue. Its features include contrasting mirrors and radiator grille elements, 18-inch dual color alloy wheels, automatic climate control, contrast blue stitching for the seats and aluminium trim.

The lithium-ion batteries that power the B-Class Electric Drive are placed under the floor of the car which allows the car to keep its standard cabin room and boot space. There is a fast charging cable supplied with the car which makes charging via a wall box or public charging station much easier. The battery is fully recovered in between three or four hours.

Making the most of the capabilities of the B-Class Electric Drive is the optional Energy Assist Package (£945) with adaptive energy recuperation systems to scan road conditions.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 5, 2014

The All-new Volvo XC90: One of The Safest Cars Worldwide

Among the most important characteristics of a car is its safety. Volvo Cars’ all-new XC90 has fully comprehended the significance of this virtue and therefore has implemented it very successfully which labels the car as one of the safest vehicles in the world.

Dr Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development of Volvo Car Group points out that: “Our starting point on safety is the same today as it was 87 years ago: real-life situations,” and then adds; “We study data. We crunch numbers. We innovate. The result is one of the safest cars ever made.”

Run-off road is an accident type which happens often. There are different causes, like driver distraction, bad or poor weather conditions and so on. Disturbed by the huge number of such accidents, Volvo Cars is seeking a practicable solution. The development of the automaker’s Safe Positioning which addresses such and similar situations is a massive step forward that leads towards a safer driving.

Precisely, The Safe Positioning capability means that in a run-off road occurrence, the all-new Volvo XC90 is able to monitor what is happening. As a result, the front safety belts are tightened which keeps the occupants in a stable and secured position. The belts stay firmly tightened as long as the car is in motion.

Furthermore, The XC90 is the first car around the globe with technology that includes automatic braking in case the driver turns in front of an oncoming car. Also, there is a wide range of other safety innovative technologies available on the all-new XC90 such as: Pre-crash protection in rear impacts, Groundbreaking rollover prevention and protection, City Safety auto braking functions, Extended Road Sign Information, Covers the blind spots and Queue Assist.

Source: Volvo

December 5, 2014

Lincoln Receives Premium Sound from Revel Audio Systems

The Lincoln Motor Company and Revel, HARMAN International’s most premium loudspeaker brand, are combining their strengths in an exclusive 10-year pairing. Revel will add the premium loudspeaker brand to Lincoln vehicles which, consequently, will make Lincoln the only automobile brand which offers Revel audio systems.

In the core of the loudspeaker brand are the science-based speaker architectures and acoustic precision. They define all of the products since 1996. Revel systems are designed to recreate a musical performance which will have absolutely pure and accurate sound as it was recorded.

Audiophiles will be enabled to enjoy a premium Revel audio system and a Revel Ultima^™ system for Lincoln which will be introduced for the first time in the next-generation Lincoln MKX midsize vehicle. Thanks to the uncompromising and high-quality acoustics, intuitive technologies and the overall exceptionally good audio experience, Lincoln will be able to exceed all luxury expectations in the market.

The team work between the professionals from Lincoln and the experts from Ravel succeeds in creating a unique interior environment. Tweeters are positioned within custom Revel Waveguides to optimize high-frequency dispersion which allows a smooth merging between the tweeters and midrange speakers. The implemented design method makes sure that even the tiniest tune and detail of a song is purely distributed to a Lincoln passenger’s ears at the exact same time and magnitude, for the most genuine listening experience.

Furthermore, Revel audio systems for Lincoln come with QuantumLogic Surround^® as well as Clari-Fi^™, a patented HARMAN technology that functions in real-time in order to “reborn” audio details lost in digitally compressed music.

Finally, Lincoln drivers can use the MyLincoln Touch^™ screen to choose from three distinct listening modes – Traditional Stereo; Audience, and On Stage.

Source: Lincoln

December 5, 2014

2015 Ford F-150 Becomes Official Vehicle of 2015 International CES

The newest, strongest, and most capable Ford F-150 pickup is announced to be the Official Vehicle of the 2015 International CES. The latter is the world’s largest hands-on showcase of emerging innovation and will take place Jan. 6-9, 2015 in Las Vegas. CES is owned and produced by the Consumer Electronics Association.

Being the Official Vehicle of CES is a recognition which praises Ford’s product excellence and innovative virtues. The all-new F-150 truck is completely redesigned and it exemplifies high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body coupled with a high-strength steel frame which makes it approximately 700 pounds lighter and more efficient. It features more smart technologies than the previous model. Such features include class-exclusive driver-assist technologies such as adaptive cruise control, smart towing module, multicontour seats, active park assist, 360-degree camera and Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert.

The 2015 Ford F-150 proves to be significantly important for the range of full-size pickups because it is smart, with refined design and innovative useful technologies that maximize the capabilities of every truck driver.

As Official Vehicle of 2015 CES, F-150 will be presented in Ford’s main display area in the North Hall of Las Vegas Convention Center and throughout the show floor too.

F-150 features several innovative and smart technologies, including:

Class-exclusive active park assist
Class-exclusive adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support
Class-exclusive smart trailer tow module with Dynamic Hitch Assist
Class-exclusive 360-degree camera with split-view display
High-wattage outlets
LED spotlights
Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert
Lane-keeping system
Lighter yet more capable

Source: Ford

December 5, 2014

Mazda Motorsport Takes Part in the 25 Hours of Thunderhill Race

Last year, Mazda participated in the longest endurance race in America, the National Auto Sport Association (NASA)’s 25 Hours of Thunderhill Presented by Hawk Performance. Now, it is going to test its endurance and level of performance again. There will be three Mazda6s and 14 more Mazda models lining up along with 56 other cars which will be competing in six different classes.

The drivers who will be presenting the Dealers in cars 55 and 56 are Richard Fisher (The Autobarn Mazda, Evanston, IL), Joel Weinberger (Continental Motors, Naperville, IL), Taz Harvey (Dublin Mazda, Tracy Mazda, Dublin/Tracy, CA), Chris Wilson (CJ Wilson Mazda, Countryside, IL), Camden Jones (Velocity Mazda, Tyler, Tex.), Ben Robertaccio (Morrie’s Mazda, Minneapolis, Minn), Jason Meise (North Park Mazda, San Antonio, Tex) and Daniel Tremblay (representing SpeedSource, the official professional racing partner of Mazda Motorsports, Sunrise, Fla.).

The Factory team will be in car 70, represented by Randy Miller (Mazda R&D), Ken Saward (Mazda Design), Mike Allen (Mazda Motorsports) and Jeremy Barnes (Mazda Public Relations and Brand Experience).

In mechanical terms, the cars remain with almost all of their stock features, with just some changes on the inside. The interiors are removed so that they can accommodate an Anthony Woodford Racing roll-cage, a Sparco Pro-ADV racing seat, Safecraft racing seatbelts and plumbed-in fire systems as well as AIM MXL Pista dashes and data acquisition. Underneath the skin there is an upgraded SKYACTIV-D diesel engine. Thanks to the cold-air intake, larger intercooler, aluminum radiator and custom tune, the Mazda6s will be able to offer some solid performance and a remarkable fuel economy, as they compete for the E1-class stage.

Source: Mazda

December 4, 2014

Aston Martin DB10: The New James Bond Movie Car

There is some really exciting news for the Aston Martin fans because the Aston Martin DB10 has been unveiled today during the 24^thJames Bond movie announcement. Yet if you love James Bond films as well as Aston Martin vehicles, well then… Today might be your day!

Being revealed during a special event at Pinewood Studios in London, the Aston Martin DB10 is said to play a crucial part in the 24th installment in the James Bond franchise. After pulling the wraps off the vehicle, we are able to see this aggressively shaped new supercar in which James Bond will be sophisticatedly driving around. The movie is going to be out on the 6^th of November, 2015 and its official name is SPECTRE (Special Executive for Counter-intelligence, Terrorism, Revenge and Extortion). The really long title is a reference to the fictional global terrorist organization which is talked about in the novels written by Ian Fleming.

The spectacular car exhibits revolutionary styling which will be probably seen again in the future AM’s era of models which are fitted with engines supplied by Mercedes-AMG.

Filming is starting tomorrow at different locations such as Pinewood, Mexico City, Rome, Tangier and Erfoud (Morocco), Sölden, Obertilliach and Lake Altaussee (Austria). SPECTRE is directed by Sam Mendes and will star: Daniel Craig, Ralph Fiennes, Ben Whishaw, Naomie Harris and Rory Kinnear are Christoph Waltz, Léa Seydoux, Monica Bellucci, David Bautista and Andrew Scott.

More details and additional images of the car will be released soon. For now, this is Martin. Aston Martin DB10.

Source: Aston Martin via Twitter

December 4, 2014

Audi A6 Honeycomb: Punchy, Stylish, Dazzling

For the experts at Carlex Design difficulty means nothing and challenge equals an opportunity to impress. With a sting to it, the specialists from Carlex Design released into the internet space their dazzling redesigned Audi A6 Honeycomb.

The red and black combination used for the interior shapes a vehicle of excellence and distinctive supremacy. The car will not just make you dream of it, it will make you dream about it, live and breathe for it.

Some of the experts from Carlex Design claimed that; “We had at our disposal the modern Audi interior with brilliant seats which were the excellent starting point for making our unique concepts a reality. The project design was approved unanimously.”

One of the most intriguing and not-so-simple tasks in the transformation of the A6 proved to be the re-trimming process. But as it seems, Carlex Design successfully managed to deal with this difficulty because the result is just splendid.

This time, though, the more intensive use of saturated black creates rather discrete appeal and elegant look. There is also a punchy honeycomb overstitching contours which put emphasis on the sporty spirit of the Audi A6 Honeycomb. The intriguing forms and colors crafted a phenomenal interior that really stands out. Not betraying its nature, Carlex company used a high quality nappa leathers from Bentley range, mixing them with the exclusive honeycomb overstitching. All of those underlining refined characteristics plus the shape of the seats unleash the full capacity and genuineness of the A6.

What do you think? Thumbs up or thumbs down?

Source: Carlex Design

December 4, 2014

Author: Katya Mikova