Katya Mikova – Page 22 – Automobiles Review

Caterham Cars to Exhibit at Auto Retro 2014

I honestly get really excited when I read something about retro cars. Seeing one of those beauties makes my heart beat faster. Seeing more than one, at a Retro Show for instance, makes me feel that having only one heart is really not enough sometimes. There is just too much of a retro glory that one beating organ cannot take.

This year, the British sportscar maker, Caterham Cars, is going to attend the popular Auto Retro show in Barcelona for the first time. The manufacturer is showing its newest model for Europe – the Seven 165 alongside other classic car manufacturers and enthusiast clubs. The show will be happening from the 4^th of December until the 8^th of December.

The ultra-lightweight Seven 165 exemplifies the spirit of the early Caterham Sevens. It is charming, cool, possibly mischievous and has ‘back to basics’ virtue. This retro baby is available from €19,995 (+local taxes). The entry level model takes its power from a 3-cylinder Suzuki engine which offers 80 HP and a top speed of 161KPH. The car is able to reach 0-100km in 6.9 seconds.

David Ridley, Caterham Cars’ Chief Commercial Officer, commented: “Spain is one of our growth export markets; there’s lots of enthusiasm for the legendary Seven and we’ve been able to bolster the model range with introduction of the fantastic new entry model 165.”

The new EU6-approved Caterham Seven 165 model is an exciting addition to the range across Europe. Since its launch in 2013, the car demonstrates some significant demands and sales growth.

The Caterham Cars can be visited in sector 2.0A on stand A-29 A48.

Source: Caterham

December 1, 2014

Audi Takes to the Race Track with the Sportiest Piloted Driving Car Worldwide

Audi impressed the world with the sportiest piloted driving car which it has developed. After the amazing performance by the Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept at the German Touring Car Masters (DTM) season finale which took place in Hockenheim, the ground-breaking technology platform is now demonstrating what it really stands for on the challenging circuit of the Ascari Race Resort – at racing speed, without a driver!

Due to its 560 hp and a top speed of 305 km/h (189.5 mph), the piloted driving concept car signifies Vorsprung durch Technik. On the track in Hockenheim, the RS 7 piloted driving concept reached a maximum 240 km/h (149.1 mph), while its top speed in Ascari is 205 km/h (127.4 mph). The Ascari circuit displays even greater challenges for the technology of the Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept because of its ascents, descents, tight chicanes and banked bends.

This race track provides the Audi engineers a chance to get a glimpse of their production development. Precisely, it offers insights into the development of automatic avoidance functions in critical driving situations.

The Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept car represents a technology platform which shows the technical advancements of Audi. The large, five-door coupe’s electro-mechanical power steering, the brakes, the throttle valve and the eight-speed tiptronic that distributes the power to the mechanical quattro drive system are controlled automatically.

The technology platform uses specially corrected GPS signals for orientation on the track. Control of the vehicle at the handling limits is another outstanding feature of the Audi RS 7 piloted driving concept car.

Source: Audi

December 1, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Takes the Wraps off the SL63 AMG World Championship 2014 Collector’s Edition

Well, well, the German automobile manufacturer Mercedes-Benz has every reason to celebrate after the past remarkable Formula 1 season, which was really marked by the drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg and their impressive performance which dominated in almost every race. In order to praise its achievements, the Stuttgart-based automaker has decided to unveil a SL63 AMG World Championship 2014 Collector’s edition. It will be limited to 19 units only.

Still though, Mercedes has not announced officially if the SL63 World Championship Collector’s Edition has gained performance improvements. Nevertheless, the regular SL63 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre V8 which produces 529 HP and 590 lb-ft of torque. It will be able to sprint from 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds, while reaching a top speed of 186 mph.

After the wraps have been taken off the SL63 AMG World Championship 2014 Collector’s Edition, we are introduced to a car which is offered in black with gold accents or in white with silver touches. Interestingly enough, both Hamilton and Rosberg assisted in the development of the special SL63. The black car is said to be designed by Hamilton who took care of the gold elements.

Hamilton’s edition features the Silverstone Grand Prix track on the floor mats, key fob, and dashboard, while Rosberg’s car has the Hockenheim layout, special badge, key fob and floor carpets.

More is yet to come.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 1, 2014

Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-in Hybrid Wins Environmental Certificate

The Mercedes-Benz Plug-in hybrids are said to be able to give customers a unique experience while driving around the city in all-electric mode or cruising on a long journey somewhere else and taking advantage of the combustion engine’s range. The significant environmental computability of The Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-in Hybrid makes the car a representation of a balanced pleasure of driving and a high-quality performance. Now, this high environmental compatibility has been confirmed by the inspectors and specialists at the TÜV Süd technical inspection authority. As a result, Mercedes-Benz S 500 becomes the first Mercedes-Benz plug-in Hybrid which has received the Environmental Certificate in accordance with ISO standard TR 14062.

The Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-in Hybrid is powered by a V6 biturbo petrol engine and an electric motor. It offers a system output of 333 hp (245 kW), while the motor – 116 hp (85 kW). When you sum this up, it makes 442 hp (325 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque in total. Yet, despite this powerful performance, the hybrid can move and travel over 20-miles on purely electrical power.

All three hybrid S-Class vehicles have environmental certificates which state the cars’ environmental performance from development through to recycling, across the entire lifecycle. Furthermore, the performance is certified to internationally recognized standards by independent experts. Regarding CO₂ emissions, the certificate of the S 500 Plug-in Hybrid points out:

“Over the entire lifecycle, comprising manufacture, use over 300,000 kilometers [186,411 miles] and recycling, clear advantages result compared with the S 500. External charging with the European electricity mix can cut CO₂ emissions by some 43 percent (35 tonnes). Through the use of renewably generated hydroelectricity a 56 percent reduction (46 tonnes) is possible.”

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 1, 2014

Lexus Most Powerful V8 Engine Dedubts in the New RC F

The new 2015 Lexus RC F is going to debut with the most powerful V8 Lexus engine that has ever been produced for a road-going car. The 4,969cc 32-valve unit is a progression that derives from the engine fitted in the older IS F model. Only this time, it arrives with some comprehensive changes which will be able to propel the car to another level in terms of performance, quality and drivability.

There is a maximum power increased by 12 per cent. As a result, with the additional 54bhp (40kW) the new Lexus RC F will be able to boost 525 bhp (505 kW) at 7,300rpm. The peak torque output rises to 530Nm, available from 4,800 to 5,600rpm, developing a maximum speed of 168mph. 2015 RC F will be able to sprint from 0 to 62mph in 4.5 seconds and a 400m sprint from standstill will take 12.5 seconds.

This exquisite V8 engine can switch to the well-known more fuel-efficient Atkinson cycle when operating at cruising speeds, reverting to the Otto cycle for higher performance driving. In order to increase valve lift, the innovative engine takes advantage of the Lexus’s VVT-iE electric motor-driven intelligent variable valve timing, with a new intake camshaft profile.

Furthermore, due to the presence of new cylinder heads with improved porting and a high-flow, high-tumble ratio, performance can benefit from higher pressure D-4S dual-injection, a wider throttle diameter and better breathing. The exhaust system is comprised of large-diameter front pipes which keep back pressure to minimum and provide high power output. Because of the merged areas of the pipes larger, there is a clearer engine sound.

Last but not least, the new Lexus RC F is fitted with an Active Sound Control system that delivers better exhaust, intake and mechanical sounds into the cabin.

2015 RC F is available to order now with a starting price of £59,995. The first deliveries will be in February.

Source: Lexus

November 28, 2014

AC Schnitzer Tune It Safe Police BMW X4 20i [VIDEO]

TUNE IT! SAFE! Initiative, by the Association of German Automobile Tuners e.V. (VDAT), celebrates its 10^thbirthday this year. In order to mark this event, there will be a “Police BMW X4 20i TUNE IT! SAFE! by AC Schnitzer” that will be presented at the Essen Motor Show from 29^th of November to 7^th of December, 2014. This is the fourth time when AC Schnitzer has been involved in equipping a campaign vehicle for the TUNE IT! SAFE! Initiative.

The TUNE IT! SAFE! variant BMW X4 20i by AC Schnitzer will receive a performance improvement from 184 to 245 HP. The vehicle catapults from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds while on longer pursuits it takes only 17.5 seconds to boost its speed from 80 to 180 km/h. The top speed limitation is that of 212 km/h but it still does not prevent the BMW X4 to demonstrate some remarkable performance.

The Police BMW will be equipped with AC Schnitzer front spoiler elements, rear diffuser (both for vehicles with M-Technik pack) and AC Schnitzer carbon mirror covers. With its suspension spring kit the vehicle is lowered by around 30 mm (front) and 25 mm (rear).

Furthermore, there is also an AC Schnitzer silencer with 2 chromed “Sport“ tailpipe trims each side in right/left combination which are integrated into the rear diffuser. In order to warn other drivers and pedestrians of the approaching police car, it uses the special police “RTK 7” signaling system and flashing lights from Hella. The stylish interior of the X4 is enhanced by aluminium pedal set, aluminium foot rest, keyholder and velours floor mats.

Finally, the AC Schnitzer Type V forged alloy wheels in Anthracite, along with Ventus S1evo tires in 265/30 R 22 from Hankook, answer for the on-road stability and safety of the police BMW X4 20i.

Cool, isn’it it? For now, though, it is just a concept.

Enjoy watching the first video of the Police BMW X4 20i TUNE IT! SAFE! by AC Schnitzer!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ie9KuCTS2Nc&feature=youtu.be

Source: AC Schnitzer
Video Source: AC Schnitzer via Youtube

November 28, 2014

Audi RS6-R Impresses with 730 HP and 920 Nm

What do you think of when you read 730 HP (537 kW)? You probably imagine a massive truck or a super-sports-car. The last thing, perhaps, that comes to your mind is, well, a simple family or business-suitable car. On a side note, of course, when I say “simple” I do not really mean “simple” because a 730 HP monster can hardly be called just “simple”.

Yet, the powerful model in question is named 320 kph ABT RS6-R and is another surprise by ABT Sportsline which will be depicted at the Essen Motor Show 2014. The car is based on Audi RS6, but this time it provides even more comfort, practicality, usefulness, and luxury. This ABT creation will be limited to only 25 cars around the world.

In order to refine this model, the tuner provides it with a kit that is comprised of the ABT Engine Control unit, a specially developed software and a specially adjusted stainless steel exhaust system – including a Y-pipe and sport-type catalytic converter. There are also Dunlop high-performance tires which finalize the dynamic set-up of the RS6-R. The upgraded Audi benefits from 22-inch ABT DR alloy wheels.

Inside, ABT adorns the car with an embroidery and letterings that are simultaneously discreet and tasteful. There are also carbon-shift paddles and LED-shifting lights on the steering wheel.

ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY
Engine: 4.0 TFSI, 3.993 cc capacity, V8
Performance tuning: ABT POWER
Performance: 730 HP/537 kW (standard: 560 HP/412 kW) / 920 Nm (standard: 700 Nm)

ABT AERODYNAMICS
ABT front lip incl. front blades (red carbon fiber)
ABT air inlet covers incl. front flics (red carbon fiber)
ABT front grille insert with RS6-R logo
ABT side skirt attachments incl. side blades (red carbon fiber)
ABT rear skirt attachment on side (2 parts) and middle (both red carbon fiber)
ABT rear spoiler (carbon fiber)
ABT mirror covers (carbon fiber)
ABT fender inserts

ABT WHEELS DR in 10 x 22 inches ET52
Available also as complete set of wheels with Dunlop sports tires in 295/25 ZR22

ABT EXHAUST TECHNOLOGY
ABT stainless steel exhaust system incl. Y-Pipe with sport-type catalytic converter and
black ABT tail pipes

ABT SUSPENSION
ABT height adjustable spring kit

ABT INTERIOR
ABT sports steering wheel with LED shifting lights and carbon shift paddles
ABT floor mats
ABT embroidery at the head rests
ABT RS6-R lettering
ABT applications (red carbon fiber)

Source: ABT Sportsline

November 28, 2014

2015 Subaru Impreza Earns 2014 Safety Awards from IIHS

It is a big day for Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the manufacturer of Subaru automobiles, because the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has awarded 2015 Subaru Impreza with the highest standard of safety, 2014 TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) alongside the highest possible rating of “Superior” for front crash prevention.

The 2015 Subaru Impreza gets its power from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine which produces 148 HP (109 kW) of power at 6200 rpm and 145 lb-ft (197 Nm) of torque at 4200 rpm. It is available as 4-door and 5-door models.

Thanks to the Subaru’s upgraded EyeSight driver assist technology The 2015 Impreza gained 6 of 6 points for front crash prevention. As it seems, safety really comes first for the automaker because this is not the only safety award that the company has received so far. There are seven other models that have earned 2014 safety awards from IIHS – four with TOP SAFETY PICK+ and three with TOP SAFETY PICK.

EyeSight debuted in Japan in 2008 and is defined as a pioneer since it is the first system ever that uses only stereo camera technology to detect other vehicles, pedestrians etc. It features pre-collision braking control and all-speed range adaptive cruise control tracking function. New EyeSight includes fully revamped stereo cameras which increase viewing angle and range by 40%. As a result, the preventative safety and driver load-reduction features are significantly improved.

In order to win TOP SAFETY PICK, a certain car must have “Good” ratings in all four tests of high-speed front and side crash tests, a rollover test, and evaluations of seat/head restraints for protection against neck injuries in rear impacts. What is more, “Good” or “Acceptable” performance in a small overlap front test introduced in 2012 is also an important requirement.

Source: Subaru

November 28, 2014

ABT Sportsline Presents the New Audi TT

Undoubtedly, the Audi TT has a unique outline and an iconic styling. Now at the German Essen Motor Show 2014, which really gives an opportunity to tuning companies to show their bests, ABT Sportsline will reveal a brand-new edition of Audi TT.

In terms of power, the car to be shown at the show is equipped with ABT Power uprating based on the 2.0 TFSI. It turns the previous 230 HP (169 kW) into screaming 310 HP (228 kW) and 440 Nm of torque (initially: 370 Nm).

The tuner injects the car with additional dose of masculinity and turns it into a model that is able to dazzle and amaze across the streets. The new front skirt makes the look of the Audi TT even edgier, more sophisticated and agile. The tuned car comes with one-of-a-kind mirror caps and black 20’’ DR alloy wheels with sporty Continental tires which underline the side of the car. In order to satisfy clients and their expectations even more, ABT Sportsline offers alternative designs, finishes and sizes.

Yet, the kicker of the set, the cherry on top of the cake, the part which stands out the most is the ABT Sportsline-refined rear. The tuning company used a fixed wing, which transforms the serial version’s elegantly-looking retractable spoiler and round back into something more racy and sporty. In a way, Audi TT underwent a transition which resembles that of a teenager growing up and becoming an adult. Finally, there is a rear skirt insert with two extra side attachments and an impressive four-pipe rear muffler which further highlight the sportiness of the coupe.

Source: ABT Sportsline

November 28, 2014

BMW xDrive Technology Featured in the New BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

BMW continues to progress and develop in the field of drive technology. With its intelligent four-wheel drive system BMW xDrive, first used in the BMW X3 and the X5 in 2004, the manufacturer adds a high degree of functionality, improved cornering dynamics and tries to achieve minimum fuel consumption and low emission levels.

Now, the most recent example of model-specific alignment of the four-wheel drive system is served by the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer models. The most cardinal difference when it comes to previous variants and the last ones is that, for the first time, BMW xDrive is used on a front-wheel drive concept with transversely installed engines.

With the BMW 225i xDrive Active Tourer (combined fuel consumption of 6,5–6,4 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 152-148 g/km) and the BMW 220d xDrive Active Tourer (combined fuel consumption of 4,8-4,6 l/100km with CO2 emissions of 127-122 g/km), the intelligent four-wheel drive system is now available for top-notch power units. Both BMW vehicles are equipped with BMW xDrive as standard in combination with the 8-speed Steptronic transmission.

What the xDrive system does is utilizing an energy-efficient operating strategy which enables the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer to be driven only via the front wheels. And since, in this case, BMW is really about compactness, convenience and practicality, in order to make use of additional saving potentials, the manufacturer has given the multiple-disk clutch a spring-loaded Efficient valve. It decreases the oil level in the clutch and reduces friction losses (oil splash losses).

Furthermore, thanks to the Dynamic Stability Control feature (DSC), which analysis, collects and provides an information about the running condition, any possible wheel slip, for instance, is detected at an early stage. Additionally, the xDrive manages and directs excess force to the front wheels in case the rear of the vehicle turns outwards. This ensures an ultimate four-wheel performance which is possible even before the occurance of any swerves. In consequence, xDrive featured in the BMW 220d Active Tourer and BMW 225i Active Tourer provides with better traction, more safety in different road conditions and enhances the vehicle stability, cornering dynamics and ride comfort.

Source: BMW

November 27, 2014

BMW 3-Series Plug-in Hybrid Prototype Unveiled

During the Group Innovation Days 2014, BMW has revealed its extremely good-looking 3-Series plug-in hybrid saloon. At this stage it is only a prototype which, I believe, will not stay just as a prototype but will undergo an official production in the future.

The plug-in 3-Series is equipped with an advanced plug-in hybrid technology already seen in the BMW’s i8 sports car, starting with an X5 eDrive in concept form. There is a four-cylinder 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine which works in combination with an electric motor. According to BMW, it will be able to provide the prototype with the same level of performances as a six-cylinder 3-Series.

The combined output of the system is 245 HP (180 kW) and a peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) transmitted to the wheels via an upgraded eight-speed Steptronic transmission. In terms of the fuel consumption, it is estimated at only 2 liters / 100 km (140 mpg UK or 117 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 50 g/km. The electric-only driving mode with a fully charged battery is considered to be about 22 miles (35 km), hitting a top speed of 74.5 mph (120 km/h).

The BMW 3-Series plug-in hybrid prototype is fitted with a lithium-ion battery pack. It is installed underneath the load compartment which is able to be charged from a normal household socket. Pretty convenient, isn’t it? What is more, the car features a Driving Experience Control switch placed on the center console. It offers the driver an option of COMFORT, SPORT or ECO PRO mode. Consequently, each mode changes the settings of the suspension, gearbox and the hybrid operating strategy.

What do you think though? Will we see the BMW plug-in 3-Series in the market any time soon?

Source: BMW

November 27, 2014

First All-New Ford Mondeo Hybrid Models in Europe

Ford is doing two things: it celebrates its 21^st birthday and distributes the fifth generation all-new Ford Mondeo in Europe, which becomes the first hybrid electric car built and sold by Ford there. The Mondeo Hybrid combines advanced Ford technology, better efficiency, reduced emissions, genuine style, elegant design and excellent driving performance which guarantees remarkable experience on the road.

The hybrid arrives with a large range of powertrains. The variety of engines includes: the 1.5-litre EcoBoost and 2.0-litre EcoBoost along with the award-winning l 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine.

Another option is the high-powered 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine which generates 210 PS and 450 Nm of peak torque. An ECOnetic Technology model will be available too and will be powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine with class-leading diesel CO2 emissions of 94 g/km and 2.0-litre TDCi diesel models with 150 PS or 180 PS.

Finally, the new Mondeo Hybrid combines a specially-developed 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and 1.4 kWh lithium-ion battery in order to provide better fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 99 g/km.

Furthermore, the car comes with significantly more safety and luxury features. In Europe, the car will be offered in five-door, wagon and four-door versions with the option of all-wheel-drive. The car premiers with integral link rear suspension as well as Ford’s innovative inflatable rear seatbelts, massage function-equipped multi-contour seats with Active Motion and Ford’s first adaptive LED headlights in Europe which help raise the overall quality statistics.

The all-new Ford Mondeo Hybrid is available in the UK from December a four-door saloon from only £24,995 – the same as its 2.0-litre diesel Mondeo Titanium Powershift five-door equivalent.

Source: Ford

November 27, 2014

Author: Katya Mikova