Katya Mikova – Page 28 – Automobiles Review

MINI 5-door Model Debuts at Los Angeles Auto Show 2014

Now MINI is expanding the brand with its new volume-chasing five-door model, which is a pioneer if we don’t count the Countryman crossover launched in 2010. The latest generation of MINI transforms its very successful concepts through a more innovative prism which, sort of, changes the traditional aspects of the brand.

Being the latest addition to the family, which is formed of seven members by now, MINI 5-door will be revealed to visitors at the Los Angeles Auto Show from November 21st till the 30^th, 2014 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. There are also going to be presented currently running new products in terms of equipment, accessories and MINI Connected.

2015 MINI 5-door shines with an individual character, flexible qualities and authenticity. The car comes with two more doors facilitate entry to the rear, where there will be three seats available. Additionally, the wheelbase has been extended by 72 millimeters which results in providing more space for luggage and occupants. The rear backrest has a 60:40 folding split and expands the luggage compartment volume to approximately 941 liters.

The new model MINI will be powered by remarkably efficient engines with either three or four cylinders. The base Cooper receives a turbocharged 1.5 liter three-cylinder gas engine that offers either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. It is able to deliver 134 HP (99 kW) and 219 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. MINI Cooper S mates the same six-speed gearboxes to a 2.0-liter turbo four engine, producing 189 HP (140 kW) and 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque.

Finally, the car is equipped with a large selection of innovative driver assistance technologies, comprising of an optimized head-up display, road-sign detection for speed-limit placards, camera-based adaptive cruise control, collision and pedestrian-impact warnings, and an automatic braking function.

Source: MINI UK

November 10, 2014

New Forgiato Wheels: The Unbreakable

Two questions are circling around my head right now: Is there anything stronger than the wraith of a woman? And is there anything that can resist it? I would have said no if I had not watched the latest advertisement of Forgiato Wheels for their new ‘Unbreakable’ series wheels, staring a Cheating Boyfriend, The Other Woman, The Not-so-one-and-only Woman, and the ultimate sufferer Ferrari 458 equipped with a new set of Forgiato wheels. Ah, did I forget to mention the sledgehammer? Yes, there is a sledgehammer playing a significant role too. A marvelous choice of ‘actors’ that is, right? You cannot help but wonder what the hell is going to happen!? Actually, I take that one back. Looking at the bigger picture, it is in fact quite obvious.

For a great number of famous people including football players, NBA Stars and, pretty much, the whole continent of Asia, Forgiato has been continuously number one choice when it comes to selection of wheels. The company sells aftermarket wheels for different high-end luxury cars that are manufactured in Los Angeles, California. From the released teasing video, the newest models seem very similar to Monoleggera Sport wheels, yet we are not told anything else about them. Left with only a chance for speculations, we can simply observe that the new Forgiato wheels are remarkably indestructible.

You pulled a nice one there, Forgiato! There’s no better way to show how much of a pounding your wheels can take than setting them against an angry supermodel… with a sledgehammer in her hands. You caused a lot of screaming behind the screens and a headache to Ferrari.

Watch the link bellow and be careful not to get a heart attack.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ht3oYiqCPPM

Source: ForgiatoTV YouTube Channel

November 10, 2014

Ex-Brunei Royal Family XJ220 Offered By Silverstone Auction

It will be considered a sin if one makes a list of 1990s supercars and does not mention the Jaguar XJ220 there. The very special, specious, and, more or less, degenerated coupe (of course when it is compared to 2015 Renovo Coupe for instance) still manages to fascinate the imaginations of collectors around the world. Perhaps the bittersweet history of the car has a role in this established old-fashioned splendor that springs out of the XJ220 model. With its outdated and yet salient characteristics, the supercar remains an icon which demands respect. That is indeed a car for a Royal family… Or, at least, it used to be.

Now let me take you back in time. In 1988, Jaguar automobile company revealed a concept car that was supposed to be powered by a 530-hp V12 engine. Yet, until the time when rolling prototypes started being made, there occurred slight changes. The initially planned V12 engine was replaced by a new V6 with the promise of more than 200 mph top speed. Nevertheless, the XJ220 would end up being equipped with a 542-hp 3.5-liter twin turbocharged V6 engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox driving the rear wheels. With 0-60mph acceleration in the screaming 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 213mph the XJ220 was considered to be the fastest road car back in the day even though its fame and glory only lasted for a short period of time.

The car has now covered just less than 6,000 miles and is supported by MoT certificates dating back to 2002. Moreover, Silverstone Auctions estimates this 1994 Jaguar XJ220 to bring between £200,000 and £220,000 on auction day, or between $322,000 and $355,000.

Something quite exciting is that such beauty also exists in Bulgaria. The modified version by Overdrive has the modest price of 400 001 euros (about $544 300 and £300 000).

Source: Silverstone Auctions

November 10, 2014

2015 Hyundai Genesis Scoops Ruedas ESPN “Best Luxury Sedan” Award

With its well-built comfortable interior, well-crafted cabin, powerful engine, high reliability and safety ratings, the new 2015 Hyundai Genesis Sedan earned the accolade of “Best Luxury Sedan” presented by the leading Spanish automotive radio show Ruedas ESPN. This model is another addition to Hyundai’s already praised vehicles such as the 2014 Hyundai Equus and 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe, which were named Ruedas ESPN’s “Best Luxury Sedan” and “Best Large SUV,” respectively in 2013. The reward was introduced at the 44^th annual Miami International Auto Show and it proves to be the ultimate testimony of Genesis’ excellent quality and standards.

The 2015 Genesis is an expression of Hyundai’s brave and innovative notions which propel the automotive company further on. The renewed interior and improved exterior, the car depicts class implemented in its premium features and superb driving dynamics. The sedan is said to be more powerful and stiffer than before which makes the ride more comfortable and pleasant. Hyundai Genesis is equipped with a suite of advanced assistance components like Rear Cross-traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, Blind-Spot Detection and Smart Cruise Control.

There are two engine options: a 311 horsepower 3.8 liter V6 and a 420 horsepower 5.0 liter V8 engine, On top of this, the car comes with an advanced HTRAC AWD system that is available for the first time on a Hyundai passenger car. By all means then, the vehicle discloses an impressive combination of plain but stylish design, safety, premium value and better dynamics.

2015 Hyundai Genesis Sedan has a starting price of $38,000.

Source: Hyundai

November 10, 2014

DMC Lamborghini LP988 STAGE 3 Edizione GT: God of Uniqueness

After two very successful and triumphant Lamborghini Aventador packages, the luxury tuner DMC has presented another one. This time it is even more exclusively good and is able to shatter people’s preconceived notions about the meaning of the word “amazing.” Dubbed Lamborghini LP988 STAGE 3 Edizone GT and developed according to the FIA regulations in mind, this one-of-a-kind Aventador strikes with poisonous glory. Moreover, it is absolutely street legal. Imagine this! Don’t you just want to have it?

The third car has been recently built and distributed to China, where the local artist Yinfeng has had the chance to take it for a series of pictures which can make pretty much everyone gasp in daydreaming. The majority of changes are taken by the body kit and the engine updates as well. This monster distinguishes from the other two individual Lamborghini LP988 Edizone GTs thanks to the two-tone paint and the set of forged alloy wheels. The interior refinements, including Italian fine leathers and carbon fiber, plenty of buttons and trims available as a small package, and a redesigned steering wheel, contribute to the overall stylish representation.

Additionally, the styling package offers a newly designed front and rear bumpers, flanked by unique side skirts and culminating GT-Spoiler that can be manually set to 3 different angles for different aerodynamics. In terms of its performance, DMC Aventador LP988 benefits from an engine upgrade kit that is comprised of a twin-turbo system, reprogrammed ECU, individual intake throttle plates for each of the 12 cylinders, new fuel pumps, fuel lines, modulators and injection nozzles.

The Limited Edition car is allowed in only one sold color which makes every other model phenomenal and special in the entire world. The steep price of the package is 288.888 USD (excluding the base car of course).

Source: DMC

November 7, 2014

Land Rover SVO and Holland & Holland Reveal the Most Luxurious and Expensive Range Rover Ever

Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) in collaboration with British gun-maker company Holland & Holland have unveiled a special edition of the Range Rover which is thought of as the most expensive and most luxurious Range Rover ever. Combining eccentric style and bespoke design, this is a car for real connoisseurs. And even though I am not a huge fan of Range Rovers, I have to admit that this one in particular gives me the chills. Especially when I look at the interior.

The previously considered as the most expensive Range Rover Autobiography Black long wheelbase which costs £146,900 is no longer on the top of the price-ladder. It has been uncrowned by the 2015 Range Rover by Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations and Holland & Holland priced at £180,000. Sitting on the throne, the special 2015 Range Rover is said to be distinguishable since it encapsulates demonstratively excellent off- and on-road performance as well as splendor and workmanship. The Holland & Holland Range Rover arrives with an option of powertrains. There is a diesel-powered 4.4-litre SDV8, which delivers 339 HP (252 kW) and a 510PS petrol-powered 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged engine.

Thanks to the professional skills and effort of Holland & Holland, the new Range Rover shines with one of a kind bodywork, mirrors and bonnet vent. The grille is painted in the same intensive and saturated green color and has chrome highlights. In addition, Holland & Holland badging is placed on the lower accent door badges of both long and standard wheelbase versions and on the tailgate too.

The interior, though, is what strikes the most. If perfectness was a physical thing, then, 2015 Range Rover has got it! On the inside the vehicle benefits from soft tan and espresso leather upholstery including Holland & Holland embroidery placed on the front seats. The sides of the transmission tunnel are trimmed in a similar leather too. In order to complete this craftsmanship, there is a sustainably-sourced French walnut veneer that is carefully polished in order to resemble the oil-finished gunstocks produced by Holland & Holland. To mark this, their logo is inlaid into the front center console. The car’s woodwork is made from a single huge piece of walnut, 1500mm long by 500mm wide, to ensure that every veneer is perfectly matched. A final touch adds the deployable loadspace floor which is engineered from aluminum and carbon fiber with a leather and wood veneer finish.

Source: Land Rover

November 7, 2014

The New Audi Q3 and Audi RS Q3 – Better Than Ever

Well, that was impressively quick. Only 20 months after its debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, Audi has presented its RS Q3 crossover with some very good styling improvements (interiorly and exteriorly), increased equipment levels and, finally, a better engine range. The face-lifted Audi Q3 does not run behind and has also been tweaked visually.

As it seems, this time Audi’s team has set a goal to make as many styling, efficiency, safety, equipment and power adjustments as possible in order to accomplish highly successful results. With the new productive redesigns the vehicles become even more distinctive. The Q3 now comes with the 1.4-litre TFSI petrol engine with Cylinder-on-Demand technology, which has originally been used in the A1 and A3 hatchbacks. The front-wheel-driven Q3 1.4 TFSI can now scamper to 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds (S tronic). This engine comes with either a six-speed manual or a twin-clutch S-tronic automatic gearbox. Nevertheless, the two versions are capable of 50.4mpg and 47.9mpg.

As for the Audi RS Q3, it is powered by an imposing 2.5-litre five-cylinder TFSI engine which produces boosted 340 HP and torque of 450 Nm (it has jumped from 309 pound-feet to 332 lb-ft). This extra boost lowers the initial sprint time of 5.5 seconds. As a result, the RS Q3 is enabled to accelerate to 63 miles per hour in the screaming 4.8 seconds.

There are also two more diesel engines both of which deliver more power. They have outputs of 150PS (the old one being 140PS) and 184PS, up from 177PS. The 2.0-litre TDI SE with 150PS, manual transmission and 17-inch alloy wheels is the efficiency standard bearer in the TDI camp. It shaves 18g/km from its CO2 rating, and offers official fuel economy of up to 61.4mpg and emissions of only 119g/km.

In relation to its exterior look, the Audi RS Q3 demonstrates idealness with its high-gloss black honeycomb front grille and RS bumpers. It is also given a special front treatment including a quattro emblem in the air intake and a unique rear diffuser insert flanked by a large elliptical tailpipe. To add up to the simple but stylish look, there are also roof rails in matt aluminum, roof spoiler, special door sill plates and door trim strips. Inside, the sports seats are upholstered in Fine Nappa leather with contrast stitching.

Audi Q3, on the other hand, has LED headlights, new five-spoke design 18-inch alloy wheels and exterior enhancements. Inside the S line upgrade is comprised of cloth and leather combination upholstery for the sports seats and the option to specify S line sports suspension in place of the standard set-up at no cost.

Source: Audi

November 7, 2014

AC Schnitzer presents the BMW X4 in an outstandingly athletic version

Despite the continuous presence of BMW X4 on the market, there hasn’t been done a major overhaul until the German tuner company AC Schnitzer took on this ‘initiative’. With the improvements given by the tuner, the face of BMW X4 is changed. It receives an impressive athletic vision which shapes the car’s look like that of a real winner!

The enhancements include new aerodynamic parts like front spoiler, a new rear diffuser, carbon fiber mirror covers and a new rear skirt protection foil.

Apart from the aerodynamics and the wheels, AC Schnitzer has been working on improving some technical qualities as well. In consequence, BMW X4 20i (export version) delivers 245 hp and BMW X4 28i can go up to 294 hp. The winner among those models in terms of power, though, is the BMW X4 35i which can even amaze world championship judges with its mighty 360 hp.

On the diesel front there are some good enhancements as well. The diesel version comes with performance upgrades from 190 to 220 hp (in preparation) for the 20d, 309 hp for the xDrive30d and 360 hp for the xDrive35d. Initially, all performance updates have been developed on AC Schnitzer’s principle of “Efficient Performance.” In other words, that means that although the engine power is extended, the CO₂ emissions remain the same. So the CO₂ value per hp falls. All of them come with a two year warranty up to 100,000 km (62,000 miles).

The Aachen-based tuning professionals are fully aware that inner characteristics play a very crucial role for they raise the market value of a certain car. For this reason, AC Schnitzer completes the changes by providing the new BMW with pedal set and foot rest made of aluminum, the unique AC Schnitzer keyholder and the velours footmats. Along with this, the German tuner integrates a gear knob with digital gear display, illuminated leather gear knob and “Black Line” aluminium gear knob which highlight the sporty interior feel of BMW X4.

Source: AC Schnitzer

November 7, 2014

New DIG-T 163 1.6-litre Turbocharged Petrol Engine Joins Qashqai Range

Nissan moves far ahead of the field again for it is expanding its famous Qashqai range with an improved new DIG-T 163 petrol engine. Covering all the requirements of the strict EURO6 emissions regulations, the new 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged unit depicts high-class performance with low CO₂ output and strong fuel economy.

DIG-T 163 engine exceeds and indicates better features than the already existing 1.2 DIG-T unit which develops 115 HP (85 kW). The new powerplant has an advanced turbocharging technology and possesses additional specifications which are carried out in a way that maximizes the performance and economy figures. The DIG-T 163 petrol engine is able to produce 163 HP (120 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 240 Nm of maximum torque estimated between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm.

As you can suppose, typically for all engines used in the new Qashqai range, the DIG-T 163 is also equipped with Start/Stop ignition system and expresses a sense of precise, easy and pleasurable driving experience. Buyers can expect acceleration from 0-62mph to be achieved in only 9.1 seconds which defines Nissan Qashqai as the fastest model in the range with a top speed rated at 124 mph.

Yet, even more striking are the DIG-T 163 engine’s fuel efficiency and emissions rates. Cars that come with the new engine are able to return from 48.7 mpg on the EU Combined cycle and have CO₂ emissions from 134g/km for vehicles provided with 16″ and 17″ wheels to 138g/km for vehicles provided with 18″ and 19″ wheels.

The new DIG-T 163 engine is supplied with a six-speed manual transmission and is available in front-wheel-drive form. The product will be available to order now with deliveries starting from January 2015.

Source: Nissan

November 7, 2014

Cayenne and Cayenne GTS Debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show

Porsche premiered two new Cayennes, Cayenne and Cayenne GTS, which are slightly more compelling than their predecessors.

The new 2015 Cayenne GTS gets its power from a 3.6 liter V6 twin-turbo engine, which is a performance-oriented improved version of the new powertrain that was recently presented in the Cayenne S. The GTS’ power output is increased by 20 hp to 440 hp and torque by 62 ft.-lbs. to 445 ft.-lbs., while –observe!- fuel consumption is reduced. Porsche claims that its Cayenne GTS accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 5.2 seconds and has a top speed of 163 mph. The standard kit includes a sports exhaust, PASM and air suspension, and flared wheel arches. Yet, not to lose itself in too much standard dimensions, Porsche has added a new feature on the front doors: striking GTS lettering! Wow!

Not to disappoint you but “standard” seems to be the leading factor in terms of the new models for there aren’t too many innovations with the base model. Cayenne is equipped with the familiar 3.6 liter V6 naturally aspirated engine. It produces 300 hp and accelerates the car from 0 to 62 mph in 7.7 seconds – 7.6 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package. Well, there is a slight enhancement obviously because that’s 0.2 seconds faster than before.

Cayenne and Cayenne GTS are going to celebrating their world debut in November 19th at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show. Sales of the cars will begin in the United States at the end of February 2015. The price for the Cayenne is $58,300 and for the Cayenne GTS is $95,500.

Source: Porsche

November 6, 2014

Toyota Shocks Sema with 850-horsepower Camry Dragster

2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry managed to shock onlookers at this year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. Loud roars and extensive enthusiasm abounded around the Toyota booth after the reveal of the all-new Sleeper Camry. The word “sleeper” presented in drag racing terms identifies a car which has the look of an innocent kitten but acts like a lion. In other words, it is a vehicle that can blow your mind and leave you speechless.

At first sight, the mild-mannered seemingly stock sedan looks like it has nothing special than some custom-made wheels and ordinary smoky shade. BUT! Reality is different. The 2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry does indeed give grounds for the presence of the word “sleeper” in its name. The car flips open, and uncovers a tube-frame chassis. Just like some of those autobots that you can see in Transformers. Almost.

The underneath part of the elegant Camry skin is all about intimidating force, strong durability and rough speed. The purpose-built dragster features a 5.7-liter 3UR-FE V8 engine sourced from the Toyota Tundra boosted by a TRD supercharger. It also includes a wet nitrous system that strikes with more than 850 HP. The crazed Sleeper Camry is equipped with brutal DOT 335/30/18 drag racing tires which are expected to help propel this Toyota to a dazzling 9.80-second quarter mile.

2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry features:

Magnuson Products
IPT Performance Transmissions
Plumbing: Goodridge Fluid Transfer Systems
TRD
Magnaflow
Autometer Digital Dash
Impact Racing safety harness
Battery: Optima Yellow Top
Goodyear tires
Nitrous Supply
Seat: Fast Ed’s Interiors
The Polishing Shop
Forged pistons and connecting rods
Suspension: Strut front and 4-link live rear axle

Source: Toyota

November 6, 2014

The New Skoda Fabia Ensures Top-level Safety

Recently the new Skoda Fabia has been praised with the maximum five-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests which are based on results for occupant protection for adults and children, pedestrian protection and safety assistance systems. Demonstrating high efficiency and top-notch safety performance, the new small car highlights its great qualities of a highly reliable vehicle in the market.

Undergoing a number of tests by Euro NCAP in order to see how this hatchback will perform in case of an accident, Skoda Fabia scores remarkably high results in relation to its protection of 18-month-old and the protection of three-year-old children. Of course, such astonishing achievements would not have been possible without its safety features.

For example, the new Skoda Fabia features Front Assistant with integrated Emergency Braking Function which uses a radar sensor to measure the distance to the traffic ahead. If the distance is too small, the Assistant interferes and it switches from warnings to a full automatic emergency stop. Moreover, in the car available is the Multi-Collision Brake which is part of the standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. The key role of the Multi-Collision Brake is to lower the chances of risk of the vehicle when becoming involved in a secondary collision following an accident.

Things get even better and more secured for Skoda Fabia is supplied with an optional Driver Activity Assistant (fatigue detection). Additionally, other safety systems include Speedlimiter (standard from SE), Hill-Hold Control and an electronic tyre-pressure monitor. The comprehensive safety package of Fabia includes six airbags (front, side and head airbags) as well. There are also five three-point seat belts which protect the occupants of the car in case of a collision.

Skoda Fabia is going to be launched in the first European markets in the next couple of days.

Source: Skoda

November 6, 2014

Author: Katya Mikova