Katya Mikova – Page 26 – Automobiles Review

Mercedes S63 4Matik Coupe Enhanced by IMSA

The tuning company IMSA GmbH, Brueggen got its hands on the new Mercedes-Benz S63 4Matik Coupe, giving it some last touches which enhance the already good-looking and attractive car.

First of all, the tuner bestows on the sedan the IMSA’s own lowering module such as the air suspension system which is complemented by a wheel-tire-combination of a very specific sort: Precisely, IMSA forged light-alloy rims in 9×21 in. with tires 255/35R21 on the front axle and in 10,5×21 in. with 295/30R21 on the rear.

A huge part of the new improvements is situated around the engine. The current changes are made in order to support the powerplant of the Mercedes in question. This results in the production of the screaming 720 hp (529 kW) with 1,080 Nm of maximum torque that are provided at free disposal.

Other highlighting developments of the Mercedes S63 4Matik Coupe include a software update as well as new sports cats and modified x-cross central muffler of the exhaust system. What is more, the charge air cooler and the sports air filters undergo some significant alterations too. Still remaining the downpipes and the turbocharger outlet for optimized air flow rate and the intercooler radiator.

The worldwide success of IMSA is a result of the company’s leading goal to provide even better driving experience and ultimate fun by dealing with professional know-how mechanisms, quality assurance and high-class technological attachments. In the future, IMSA will also create complete tuning programs for other selected Mercedes-Benz models with a primary focus on AMG.

Source: MIRANDA MEDIA

November 17, 2014

Volkswagen GTI Roadster Debuts at The Los Angeles International Auto Show

Volkswagen is going to depict its unconventional GTI Roadster concept car at the Los Angeles International Auto Show this week. The car was originally shown at the Wörthersee enthusiast festival in Austria in May. It clearly makes a statement which is able to blend in the virtual and the real world.

The GTI Roadster is a Golf GTI show car that is based on a CGI concept created to celebrate the 15^th anniversary of the Sony PlayStation®3 classic “Gran Turismo 6” (“GT6”). The two-seater generates its power from a 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbocharged TSI® engine that boosts 503 hp (375 kW) and a mighty 559 Nm (413 pound-feet) of torque between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm; from just 2,000 revs, 369 lb-ft of that torque is available. The car benefits from a seven-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission and a 4MOTION® all-wheel-drive system which transmit the power to 20-inch wheel-and-tire combination. To be precise, the 20-inch Golf GTI centerlock aluminum-alloy wheels have body-color elements and are 8.5J wide at the front and 9.5J at the back, with 235/35 ZR20 front and 275/30 ZR20 tires. This automotive monster accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in, approximately, 3.5 seconds and goes onto a top track speed of 192 mph.

The red exterior of the vehicle speaks for aggressiveness, provocativeness and looks into the future. The roadster body is aerodynamically optimized, with a chopped roofline and a massive rear wing being the most outstanding visual characteristic. Inside there is a carbonfiber monocoque and Alcantara seats as well as Alcantara four-spoke grip-style steering wheel.

The GTI Roadster, Vision Gran Turismo is available for download to owners of Gran Turismo 6 for the PlayStation 3 gaming console.

Source: Volkswagen

November 17, 2014

Cadillac Introduces Its Wicked All-new ATS-V.R Race Car

There was a rumor going around that Cadillac might just ignore the CTS as its race car next and will instead choose its ATS Coupe. As it turns out, that is absolutely what is happening right now. Presicely, Cadillac ATS-V.R set the start of the next generation of Cadillac’s V-Series elite, high-performance cars. The new race car was shown at the Circuit of the Americas, one of country’s pre-eminent racing venues.

The new ATS-V.R is a vehicle which represents a racing extension of the upcoming Cadillac ATS-V Coupe. Under the hood of the racer lies the LF4.R engine, the racing version of the Twin Turbo 3.6L V-6 in the award-winning Cadillac CTS Vsport. It generates monstrous 600 hp and about 520 pound-feet of torque.

It becomes obvious that the ATS-V.R is equipped with an aggressive aero kit with a carbon fiber front splitter, and a wing at the back. The weight of the whole package is estimated at about 2,900 pounds, which is approximately 700 pounds less than the street version. In addition, there is also a full under tray directs air beneath the car to the rear diffuser, which helps create a downforce-producing effect and plants the 18-inch racing tires to the track. The mighty vision of the new Cadillac ATS-V.R is further complemented by the lightweight aluminum block and heads which are counterbalanced by a rear transaxle.

The ATS-V.R Coupe premiers next week, along with the ATS-V sedan, at the Los Angeles Auto Show. It is going to arrive track-capable from the factory next spring.

Source: Cadillac

November 17, 2014

UK Ordering Available Now for Mercedes-AMG GT, GT S and GT S Edition 1

The iconic Mercedes-Benz is striking the market again with its new models. Mercedes-AMG GT has opened for ordering in the UK with the cheapest price kicking off at £97,195. Yet if you fancy going after the GT S or GT S Edition 1, you should know that the prices go up to £122,745.

First of all, The GT model is going to arrive in the UK in late 2015. The car will be equipped with dry sump V8 engine which is able to produce 462 hp, developed at 6,000 rpm. The GT also makes 600 Nm of torque between 1,600 and 5,000 rpm which allows it speed up from rest to 62 mph in 4.0 seconds before reaching 189 mph. Every GT model will benefit from 19 inch wheels (front and rear). Other features include: a mechanical limited slip differential, a switchable AMG performance exhaust, COMAND Online (complete with an 8.4-inch screen), AMG sports suspension and an adjustable electronic rear wing.

Nevertheless, the first models that are set to arrive in the UK in April 2015 are going to be the GT S and GT S Edition 1 variants. Both of them are powered by an all-new 4.0-litre biturbo V8 engine which generates 510 hp at 6,250 rpm and 650 Nm of torque between 1,750 and 4,750 rpm. This enables the GT S to accelerate to 62 mph in only 3.8 seconds before reaching a maximum speed of 193 mph. The GT S comes with 20 inch rear wheels, red brake calipers clamping enlarged discs, an electronically-controlled rear differential, AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with three different modes.

Additionally, the GT S Edition 1 features high-gloss silver and black 19 inch (front) and 20 inch (rear) wheels, a carbon roof, a set of black mirror surrounds with matching window surrounds and rear diffuser and black exhaust tips complete the enhancements. On the inside there is a distinguishable red contrast stitching which is complemented by a leather and suede finish for the special AMG performance seats and the steering wheel as well as a center console in ‘Black Diamond’ textured finish. Prices start at £110,495 for the GT S and £122,745 for the GT S Edition 1.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 17, 2014

Jaguar F-Type Coupe Tuned by Best Cars and Bikes

BEST Cars & Bikes Company was established in 1997 at Viersen on the Lower Rhine, Germany and it is famous for its high-quality tuning, among many other kinds of services. Nevertheless, the tuner is quite picky for it offers a collaborative work with carefully chosen suppliers only. Part of its working program are bikes, as the title of the company suggests, but it also offers solely rims and exhaust systems which enhance the performance of a certain car.

The focus of Best Cars and Bikes has now been directed towards the British Jaguar car manufacturer. Not wanting to change big part of the F-Type virtues, the tuner has provided Jaguar F-Type Coupe model “only new shoes”. In this case, there have been used, the so called, CC-Line three-part rims which provides the Jaguar vehicle with exceedingly good and smooth running. The ensured stability and degree of obvious fine work can be noticed even when driving at high speed. Unlike the components inside the cast of ordinary rims which produce vibrations making the tires “jump” on the road, the “Schmidt Revolution” functions on a quite different level.

The developed by Volker Schmidt pressed three-part wheels bring excellent quality and efficiency. The multispoke-wheels are mounted on the front in 9,5×21 with tires 255/30R21 and on the rear in 11×21 with tires 295/25R21. In addition, here has also been installed a H&R spring set.

BEST Cars & Bikes Company is also working on a feature that will be able to improve the power of the Jaguar F-Type.

Source: Miranda Media

November 14, 2014

2016 Audi TT Roadster and TTS Coupe to Debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show

The 2016 Audi TT Roadster and Audi TTS Coupe will hit the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show thus making their U.S. debut and unveiling the all-new TT model line. The cars feature an excellent new design that is categorized by the use of revolutionary technologies and driver-focused performance. For sure the all-new Audi TT models once again will represent the very pinnacle of craftsmanship.

The Audi TT Coupe and Roadster will again use a 2.0L TFSI engine which will generate 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The sporty Audi TTS Coupe will be powered by a turbo 2.0L TFSI engine with 292 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Still, all models feature quattro permanent all-wheel drive which is able to deliver phenomenal dynamics, exclusive traction and excellent grip with the Audi drive select system standard. The latter enables the driver to adapt the shift points, throttle response, steering and the standard magnetic ride suspension on TTS, by choosing between four different modes: dynamic, auto, comfort and individual.

The all new Audi TT models stand out with exemplary technology and iconic design which offer a revolutionized ways in which the driver interacts with the vehicle. The 2016 TT and TTS roadsters get Audi’s new MMI navigation in combination with MMI control, as well as virtual cockpit that replaces traditional gauges and interfaces for a customizable driving experience. It is also able to position all information related to the vehicle and infotainment on a 12.3-inch screen right in front of the person who is driving. Other included tech equipment are represented by a radar-based side assist, active lane assist, park assist, traffic sign recognition, and attention assist. Additionally, just like the coupe, the TT and TTS roadsters are available with high-quality materials including of S sport seats, leather, cloth, and Alcantara. Trim material are comprised of aluminum and matching paint.

The third-generation Audi TT features short overhangs, broad wheel arches and quite recognizable muscular stance. The standard full LED headlamps which enhance the sports car appeal. There is also a broader and flatter Singleframe grille, acute lines across the hood, round exhaust tailpipes and rear spoiler.

This time around, we see the original Audi TT in a refined vision which arrives with new standards and combines groundbreaking technology, optimized design and incredible performance.

Source: Audi

November 14, 2014

Sublime 2015 Rolls-Royce Maharaja Phantom Drophead Coupe Arrives in Dubai

Dazzling, sublime, gorgeous, unique and super-luxury. That is what the special 2015 Rolls-Royce Maharaja Phantom Dophead Coupe is. It could be said that this model is, perhaps, the sheikh of cars which will pierce the heart of everyone who has the chance to see it. After two years in the making, the exclusively eye-catching vehicle is finally created and only distributed to customers in Dubai.

Maharaja Phantom Dophead Coupe is the product inspired by the Golden Age of the Raja which was a time when Indian royalty purchased over 840 extraordinary Rolls-Royce motor cars over a period of five decades. It is conceptualized and hand-crafted by a team of professionals at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, England, to praise India’s affinity and one of the longest relationship in the world with the super-luxury automobile manufacturer. In order to celebrate and honor Indian culture, the car features a Peacock emblem which is the national bird of India.

The car conveys certain uniqueness on the outside as well as the inside. The exterior of this breathtaking Rolls-Royce gleams in a Carrara White colour, with a Peacock emblem which adds a subtle touch to the Emerald green coachline. There is also a Deep Green hood retracts, disclosing a nicely-crafted deck with a Peacock emblem, again, integrated into the marquetry. The interior is as amazing as the exterior. It amalgamates gently Crème Light leather with Emerald green contours. More intricate Peacock emblems can be found embroidered into the headrests in Emerald green and Cobalto blue colors. This lavish look is complemented by the Peacock feather pattern in Seashell stitching which is placed on the side and central armrests.

All of this designs a vehicle that is so sumptuous and lavishly appointed that even the name is intimidating! It is a car formed without any thought of compromise, restriction or limits in terms of luxurious presence and feel. It comes with a specific attitude and confidence both of which match the character of a real Maharaja.

Source: Rolls-Royce

November 14, 2014

50-Year Limited Edition 2015 Ford Mustang at Ford Championship Weekend

The sixth generation 2015 Ford Mustang appeared right in time for the golden anniversary celebration of the monumental pony car. The 50-Year Limited Edition 2015 Ford Mustang will serve the role as a pace car for Ford Championship weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway, between November 14^th and November 16^th. This is really exciting and special because this Mustang is based on the 50-Year model which is actually limited at just 1,964 units.

Specifically, the muscle car will be powered by 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V8 engine and will lead the field to the green flag for the Ford EcoBoost 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on November 16th, 2014 and the Ford EcoBoost 300 NASCAR Nationwide Series race on November 15th, 2014. The pace car will be driven by Mark Fields, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ford Motor Company.

Furthermore, there are also going to be some other vehicles which will take part in the races. For instance, the Wimbledon White ’Stang will be joined by the Race Red Mustang GT. It gains its power from a 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V8 engine that produces 435 hp and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. Two other engines, a 3.7-liter V6 and 2.3-liter EcoBoost which generate more than 300 hp, will also be available when the car is distributed to showrooms later this year. The 2015 Mustang GT comes with a number of new features such as an all-new state-of-the-art front suspension and an independent rear suspension that is exclusively designed for this new platform and car.

Another addition will be a pair of all-new 2015 Ford F-150 pickup trucks. They will pace the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Ford EcoBoost 200 at Homestead-Miami on November 15.

Source: Ford

November 14, 2014

Volvo to Offer Simulated Test Drive of XC90 Using Google Cardboard

Volvo Cars is going to be the first automotive manufacturer which will use Google Cardboard in order to make a thorough change in the way different businesses enable their audiences to experience a certain product. This transformation will be realized through the lens of virtual reality via Google Cardboard. Starting at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Volvo is inviting auto and innovation enthusiasts to go through a ground-breaking test-drive of the all-new XC90, months before it officially arrives in the US.

How exactly is this going to happen? The answer is: very easily. First the Volvo Reality app should be downloaded, after that users should insert their phones into Google Cardboard. Following this, viewers will be virtually transported into an XC90 where they can dive into a revolutionary experience and exploratory car-driving. The main reason for this simulated test-drive using Google Cardboard is to promote Volvo XC90 crossover, which will go on sale in spring 2015. The automaker will roll out the Cardboard test drives at the Los Angeles Auto Show and at Volvo dealers.

“Using Google Cardboard exemplifies the marriage of innovation and design engineering. With nothing more than a smartphone, cardboard, two lenses and a magnet, customers can experience a test drive that puts them in the driver’s seat of the XC90,” commented Bodil Eriksson, EVP, Product, Brand, Marketing & Communications, Volvo Cars North America. He also added that; “With Google Cardboard we can deliver an experience that is so much richer than simple videos or pictures. We can now transport people into a 360-degree world where they can explore and experience the next-generation luxury SUV, months before it’s in dealerships.”

Source: Volvo

November 14, 2014

Light Pioneer Mercedes-Benz Offers a Preview of What the Future Holds

Apparently, the light pioneer Mercedes-Benz has directed its gaze towards the future. Now it has presented an upgraded vision of the 2014 MULTIBEAM LED headlamps available on the new CLS-Class. What Mercedes-Benz will soon provide is an improved light quality and greater safety at night with the 84 LEDs per headlamp.

Looking at different researches and statistics, it becomes obvious that the precision of light is of a great importance since the risk of accidents is immensely increased at night-time. There are five times as many pedestrians killed on country roads as during the daytime which is a really disturbing fact. Even though driving on country roads during the night-time is estimated at only 20 percent of total mileage, 40 percent of all fatal accidents happen during that time in particular (source: BASt, German Federal Office for Roads and Traffic).

Still, companies like Mercedes-Benz are seeking to refine the levels of safety and convenience while driving. Developing its MULTIBEAM LED technology, the automotive manufacturer actually creates almost perfect visibility and gives the driver the best possible light performance on the road. The innovative 2014 MULTIBEAM LED headlamps which are already incorporated in the CLS-Class are equipped with 24 individual high-performance LEDs. They are highly adaptable to the traffic situation and can be individually electronically controlled. This makes separate areas of the road surface illuminated in a specific way.

Yet, as it seems, this is not enough for Mercedes-Benz. Making plans for the near future, the company is pursuing further safety and comfort which will be distributed with the enhanced MULTIBEAM LED headlamps with a gridded light source containing 84 LEDs. The technology is set to enable maximum illumination of the road no matter what the speed or the traffic condition is. Of course with the careful thought of not dazzling other road users being embodied in the whole idea. The high and low-beam functions of the new flexible light system will be in digital mode only and without any mechanical actuators.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 13, 2014

Subaru to Present All-New Outback at 2014 Guangzhou Motor Show

The all-new Subaru Outback is going to be exhibited at the 2014 Guangzhou International Auto Parts & Accessories Exhibition, held in Guangzhou, China. It will be open to visitors from November 21 through November 29, 2014.

In China, the all-new Subaru gains its power from a 2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed direct injection turbo engine. It is manufactured specifically for the Chinese market. The all-new Outback is also equipped with a 2.5-liter Horizontally-Opposed engine which has about 80% of its features freshly projected. In relation to its launch in China in 2014, the product lineup has been renovated in full compliance with the Chinese market’s demands and requirements.

From the start of its production, Subaru Outback has gained a central part in the hearts of Subaru customers around the globe. It incarnates Subaru’s one-of-a-kind crossover conception, thus combining ultimate passenger-car comfort when driving for a continuous period of time at long distances. Moreover, the SUV offers more than just enough space and quality.

After its premiere in the North American and Japanese markets, Subaru has continued its attempts, which are quite successful we have to admit, to change, perfect and progress this initial concept. With the development of the new Outback, all the established notions of the brand’s effectiveness are justified. Due to the incorporated number of advanced design virtues, Subaru manages to create a car that demonstrates strength, stable presence and high degree of good performance all of which place the new Outback at a frontal position in the crossover range.

The Subaru press conference is scheduled at 11:00 am (Guangzhou local time) on November 20th at Subaru booth (Hall 1B03).

Source: Subaru

November 13, 2014

New Generation i20: UK Pricing and Specifications

Hyundai has announced the all-new second generation i20 that will reach the showrooms in January 2015. Its starting price is 10,695 GBP (13,630 EUR) in the United Kingdom.

The base S model features electric front windows, remote central locking, tinted windows and RDS radio with USB. The S Air (11,445 GBP / 14,583 EUR) model has additional Manual Air Conditioning. Next comes the S Blue (12,445 GBP / 15,860 EUR) which is equipped with intelligent start-stop system (ISG) and low rolling resistance tires. Both i20 S and i20 S Air are powered by a 1.2 litre 75ps ‘Kappa’ petrol engine, while S Blue has a 1.1-litre CRDi 75ps diesel engine.

The i20 SE model is offered with a number of additional high-end extras. It benefits from 16-inch alloy wheels, voice activated Bluetoothsystem, Cruise Control with speed limiter, front fog lights, Lane Departure Warning System, rear electric windows, reversing sensors and many other features. The price starts from only £12,725. The new generation model receives a lineup of four different engines. Customers have a choice between: 1.2 litre 84ps (62 kW) or 1.4-litre 100ps (73 kW) petrol engines or 1.1-litre 75ps (55 kW) or 1.4-litre 90ps (66 kW) diesel engines, both mated to a 6-speed manual.

Customers who are opting for the Premium will get Smartphone Docking Station, automatic dimming rearview mirror, automatic headlights and wipers, Climate control, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights, projection headlamps and privacy glass. Those choosing to go with the Premium SE version will receive front parking sensors, heated front seats and steering wheel and opening panoramic glass sunroof.

Full pricing:

i20 S –from £10,695
i20 S Air (based on S) – from £11,445
i20 S Blue (based on S) – from £12,445
i20 SE (in addition to S) – from £12,725
i20 Premium (in addition to SE)- from £13,725
i20 Premium SE (in addition to Premium)- from £14,725

Source: Hyundai

November 13, 2014

Author: Katya Mikova