Katya Mikova – Page 3 – Automobiles Review

2015 Peugeot 208 Prepares for Geneva with a Cool Facelift

Three years after its launch, the Peugeot 208 receives a comprehensive update which gives it an additional dose of charisma to compete with others. Now the model is revealed with a more assertive styling, refreshed exterior range of colors and a number of options to personalize the car even more. Thanks to the new equipment driving in urban areas becomes much easier and more pleasant.

Under the hood, the facelifted Peugeot benefits from improved naturally aspirated 1.0-liter and 1.2-liter PureTech engines. They produce 68 HP and 82 HP respectively. Set to substitute the previous 1.6-liter naturally aspirated unit, there is a turbocharged version that generates 110 HP. This one is mated to either five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. But the choice of power units does not stop here. Furthermore, there is a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with Euro 6 compliance. It can be had with 165 HP and 205 HP outputs. The diesel range remains the same – 1.6-liter engine with 75 HP, 100 HP and 120 HP variants. Every version of the new 208 has CO2 which stand below 95g/km.

More assertive and distinctive, the style of the 2015 Peugeot 208 impresses with new front bumper, wider grille and deeper chrome finisher that is now fully integrated. For more striking appearance, the body of the vehicle is fitted with redesigned two-tone headlamps, with black and chrome masks and a hi-tech LED light signature. At the rear we can see reworked LED light clusters incorporating Peugeot’s 3D ‘claws’ motif. Other tweaks include exclusive 16 and 17-inch wheel options.

Inside the changes which have been made aimed to improve convenience. The steering wheel is trimmed in full-grain leather from Active trim, while the soft-touch moulded dashboard strip has gained graining on higher specification models. Connectivity and technological extras are said to be better than ever. There is a 7-inch touchscreen display for the infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB and mobile applications via Peugeot Connect Apps and new MirrorScreen system. The last one enables transfering the screen of a smartphone to the vehicle’s screen. Pretty cool, isn’t it?

Source: Peugeot

February 19, 2015

2015 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack is Rougher than Before

Volkswagen Passat Alltrack was revealed ahead of its official public debut during the Geneva Motor Show in March. Based on the eight – generation Passat, the new version inherits a similar theme. This high riding estate is planned to appear in Australian showrooms later this year with a price close to that of the first – generation model – $47,790.

As it might be expected, there is a range of engines available for the updated automobile. The selection of units offers a 150 HP 1.4 TSI, a 220 HP 2.0 TSI and three 2.0 TDIs engines which are able to boost 150 HP, 190 HP and 240 HP. Top-of-the-line petrol and diesel engines receive a standard XDS+ electronic differential system which is capable of providing selective braking to the front wheels in order to improve stability during cornering.

So in terms of design highlights, 2015 Volkswagen Passat Alltrack arrives with a 27.5 mm increase in the ride height and exhibits a rougher stance. Perhaps the most notable change is the revised front bumper. It is underlined by a silver plastic scuff plate as well as a black plastic valance panel and mounted fog lamps. With such additions, the car adopts an extra flair of ruggedness especially when driving on bumpy roads.

Other alterations on the Volkswagen Alltrack include badges on the grille and front frenders, silver and black mirror housings integrated on the doors, roof rails and wheelarches which receive plastic body cladding. There are also sills with silver plastic scuff plate extensions and a reworked rear bumper. The latter comes with a black plastic valance panel which has trapezoidal shaped chromed tailpipes. Standard 17-inch wheels are available but customers can opt for 18- and 19-inch rims.

The new Passat Alltrack offers four driving modes: eco, normal, sport and individual. Trying to surprise buyers, Volkswagen has added an off-road mode to all models.

Source: Volkswagen

February 19, 2015

2015 Suzuki Vitara Priced at £21,299. Is it Worth it?

Suzuki Vitara is back and this time it brings smaller proportions, new appearance and a magnified feeling of good driving dynamics. Ever since its introduction back in 1988, the series has been acknowledged as one of the most compact and convenient SUVs with an eye-catching design and satisfying on- and off-road capabilities.

The new five-door crossover comes with a choice of engines. One of the units is the 1.6-liter petrol engine which generates 120 PS at 6,000rpm with a peak torque of 156 Nm at 4,400rpm. This one can be had with Suzuki’s ALLGRIP four-wheel drive system. The other variant is the 1.6-liter diesel which is capable of delivering 120 PS as well but this time at 3,750rpm, while the maximum torque is that of 320 Nm at 1,750rpm.

CO2 emissions are impressively low due to the use of high tensile steel and additional weight saving measures in the body. What is more, there is an Engine Auto Stop Start system which shuts down the engine when the vehicle does not move. Precisely, the CO2 figures for the petrol engine of the Vitara with two wheel drive / manual transmission are 123g/km and 127g/km for the petrol engine with two-wheel drive / six-speed automatic transmission. Outstandingly low are the CO2 emissions for the DDiS engine – 106g/km with two-wheel drive / six-speed manual transmission and 111g/km with four-wheel drive / six-speed manual transmission.

Equipment? The standard features for the base SZ4 include seven airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels, DAB Radio with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control with speed limiter, auto air conditioning, front and rear electric windows and projector headlamps. SZ-T trim adds 17-inch silver painted alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, Smartphone link audio and navigation system. Finally, the SZ5 gains LED headlights as well, 17-inch polished alloy wheels, suede seat fabric, keyless entry with start button, Adaptive Cruise Control, Radar Brake Support and Panoramic sunroof.

2015 Suzuki Vitara goes on sale in April with starting price varying from £13,999 to £21,299.

Source: Suzuki

February 19, 2015

2016 HR-V is the Roomiest Honda in the Range

The all-new 2016 Honda HR-V delivers a one-off styling, sophisticated driving dynamics and a fuel-efficient performance. It is part of the upgraded range of Honda vehicles which adopts the ground-breaking technological approach of the brand. Portraying a distinctive poise and perfectly sculptured lines, the SUV becomes a synonym for automotive greatness!

Regarding its power, the HR-V will be available in the UK with front-wheel drive only and a choice of fuel-efficient 1.5 liter i-VTEC petrol engine that delivers 130 PS and 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engines producing 120 PS. Customers can configure both variants with either a six-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission with paddle-shift available on some versions. Both power units are Euro 6 compliant and are part of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series.

Outwardly, the new HR-V demonstrates sufficient sporty tone. Its body shape, horizontal-oriented front and rear bumpers, rear window line, revamped headlamps and unified front grille create a sharper and more angular stance. What is more, the design makes the car appear more purposeful. Furthermore, there is a fuel tank integrated under the front seats. It enables the use of the 60:40 split Magic Seats that have several configurations.

Focusing on practicality, Honda provides more than just enough space for travelers. They can take advantage of a class-leading space with leg-, shoulder- and headroom in the front and rear. There is astounding space offered by the boot as well. Its capacity amounts at 453 litres with the rear seats in use, and 1026 litres to the window line with the rear seats folded away. Soft-touch surfaces and a piano-black feature panel put emphasis on the car’s sophisticated presence too. Finally, Honda HR-V is equipped with a 7-inch Honda Connect touchscreen that comes as standard on the Sport and Executive models. A 5-inch touchscreen is available for the entry level variants. There is an Android 4.0.4 operating system run by the OS.

The car is set to arrive in the UK in the summer of 2015.

Source: Honda

February 18, 2015

The New Evora 400 is the Most Powerful Lotus Ever

Lotus has officially taken the wraps off of its 2015 Evora 400. Described as the “fastest and most powerful production Lotus ever,” the vehicle amalgamates excellent performance with the historic Lotus benchmark handling.

Power is provided by a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 400 bhp (406 PS / 298 kW) with a maximum torque of 410 Nm (302 lb-ft). It can be mated to a revised six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic transmission. Performance-wise, the Lotus Evora 400 can cover the 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) run in 4.1 seconds before hitting a top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h). As impressive as it is, the model managed to complete the Hethel test track six seconds faster than the previous model.

As we can see, Lotus Evora 400 has a very recognizable style in terms of the exterior. The aggressive styling is underlined by a new front bumper with larger air intakes, distinctive LED daytime running lights, ventilated rear bumper, sporty-looking diffuser, modified mirrors and a prominent three-element rear wing. 19- / 20-inch lightweight forged aluminum wheels with Michelin Pilot Super Sport adorn the silhouette of the new Lotus as well. Moreover, it weighs 22 kg (48 lbs) less than its predecessor thanks to its reworked aluminum chassis. Other features include retuned suspension, beefed-up brakes and a standard Limited Slip Differential (LSD) on units equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Inside there have been some very notable changes. The cabin features a new dashboard, redesigned center console, a renewed instrument cluster, new front seats and a forged magnesium steering wheel with a red position stripe.

2015 Lotus Evora 400 will enter production this summer with first European deliveries commencing in August. North America will welcome the car as a 2016 model this autumn.

Source: Lotus

February 18, 2015

Rolls-Royce Designs the Impossible!

Sir Henry Royce has said: “When it does not exist, design it”. And this is what Rolls-Royce has been doing since the very beginning. In an open letter, Rolls-Royce Chairman Peter Schwarzenbauer and Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes confirmed that the company is in a process of developing an all-new ground-breaking model. The vehicle is said to demonstrate an “exceptional presence, elegance and purpose.”

Even before the official announcement, Rolls-Royce fans have set their expectations so high that they could touch the sky and go back again. With the confirmation now, things might just escalate even more! Knowing the brand, the new vehicle will definitely be something that will shake the world with its innovative equipment and unrivalled splendor. Effortless, exclusive and dazzling, the “high-bodied car” is going to continue the legacy of the brand.

The automaker refused to share when the model will be launched but they listed that it is going to be:
• A car that offers the luxury of a Rolls-Royce in a vehicle that can cross any terrain
• A car that meets our customers’ highly mobile, contemporary lifestyle expectations
• A Rolls-Royce that is as much about the pioneering, adventurous spirit of Charles Rolls as it is about Sir Henry Royce’s dedication to engineering and innovation
• A car that appropriately reflects Rolls-Royce’s brand promise of effortless luxury
• A high-bodied car, with an all-new aluminium architecture
• A unique new motor car worthy of carrying the Spirit of Ecstasy into the future

Source: Rolls-Royce

February 18, 2015

Aston Martin Vantage GT3 Special Edition Limited to 100 Cars Only

Defined as the “most potent and uncompromising Vantage to date,” the track-inspired Aston Martin Vantage GT3 special edition is notably re-engineered and restyled. Bolder, more aggressive and sophisticated, the car arrives with high demands that hopefully the automotive world can cope with!

In terms of power, under the hood resides a 6.0-liter V12 engine which can generate about 600 PS (441 kW / 591 bhp) and a peak torque of 625 Nm (460 lb-ft). This unit is matched to a seven-speed automated manual transmission that is supposed to enable the car to speed up from 0-100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds before reaching an approximate top speed of 297 km/h (185 mph).

The newly – born beast is thoroughly equipped. It impresses with cutting edge motorsport-inspired components such as: carbon fiber wide body kit with reworked bumpers, modified side skirts and extended fenders. There is also a range of aerodynamic features including a prominent rear wing, pronounced front splitter and a nicely-shaped rear diffuser.

In order to go even further with the goodies, Aston Martin packs the new Vantage GT3 with a carbon fiber hood, a black mesh grille and ceramic coated tailpipes. The car moves on 19-inch forged alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.

Inside the cabin, the car has been comprehensively reworked too, thus implementing the sporty styling of the exterior. The interior benefits from highlights like: carbon fiber center stack with touch-sensitive controls, carbon fiber sports seats, Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, leather door pull straps and, last but not the least, an infotainment system with GPS navigation.

2015 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 special edition is limited to 100 units and will make its debut on 3 March during the 85th Geneva International Motor Show.

Source: Aston Martin

February 18, 2015

2016 Mercedes-Maybach Pullman Takes S-Class to a New Level

High – end automotive luxury, class – leading presence, greatness in every detail are characteristics associated with Mercedes-Maybach. Set to make its first appearance at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show next month, the new generously – sized Maybach Pullman does not lack any of these top – of – the – range virtues. The launch of this model coincides with the 50th anniversary of the best-known Pullman saloon – the Mercedes-Benz 600.

Power for the new Pullman is delivered by a twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 engine which is capable of boosting 530 PS (390 kW) and a maximum torque of 830 Nm (612 lb-ft). Mercedes refused to release performance details but from what we could gather, the car is more about comfort than speed. For this reason we keep our expectations close to the ground.

2016 Mercedes-Maybach Pullman takes the S-Class to another, more advanced level. The extraordinary features and divine craftsmanship define the car as the “ultimate in exclusivity and luxury.” Being a driver – focused limousine, this model is 1053 mm longer and 100 mm taller than the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. What is more, it also features a 4418 mm long wheelbase. This enables the rear seat passengers enjoy more than enough legroom.

In a typical limousine style, there is an exaggerated dose of a gorgeously fancy feel all around the interior. The rear passenger compartment includes two executive seats which can recline up to 43.5 degrees. They have individually adjustable cushions, calf supports and backrests. On top of this, rear seat passengers are enabled to see the outside temperature as well as the time and the car’s speed thanks to the roof-mounted instruments. A person really couldn’t ask for more!

Furthermore, Maybach Pullman also comes nicely fitted with eye-catching premium leather upholstery, curtains for ultimate privacy at the back and stylish wood trim. Finally, Mercedes equips the limo with a full-length center console, a Burmester 3D surround sound system and a rear entertainment system which has an 18.5-inch display.

The new Mercedes-Maybach Pullman goes on sale at the beginning of 2016 with a starting price of around €500,000 and $570,000 for un-armored models.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 18, 2015

2015 Toyota Hilux Invincible X Takes on the Toughest Terrains

Driving during the coldest season of the year has never been more pleasing than now thanks to the new top-of-the-range Hilux Invincible X! Undoubtedly, severe weather conditions require better equipment and ask for special measures to be taken into consideration. With Toyota’s super-tough pick-up things become easier.

Available in Double Cab version, 2015 Toyota Hilux Invincible X is powered by a 3.0-litre D-4D diesel engine which delivers 169 bhp. The power unit is mated to either five-speed manual or automatic transmission. Thanks to the permanent four-wheel drive and an auto-disconnecting differential, the Hilux Invincible X can conquer the toughest possible terrains. What is more, this newcomer is said to be “tough enough to take on the worst of Britain’s rain, snow and ice.”

On the visual side, the Invincible X benefits from 17-inch alloy wheels in four different designs. Customers can choose from: the standard Invincible rim and a new Rica five-spoke in all-black or two-tone black/machined or black/graphite finish. Part of the package are chrome tubular side bars too, offered with or without step grips, depending on the buyer’s preferences. Yet, customers can opt for a rear hi-over bar, or they can select the Style Pack variant. The latter includes a front guard, silver-coloured under-run, aluminium-finish scuff plates, chrome door handles and chrome surrounds for the bonnet air intake and rear lamp clusters.

Inside the cabin there are four colour-versions for the leather seat upholstery: the standard Invincible black, or custom two-tone black with contrasting seatback and cushion inserts in grey, saddle tan or deep red. Equipment features include: sports front seats, climate control, cruise control, dusk-sensing headlights, curtain airbags plus a whole lot of goodies and gadgets like a rear privacy glass, headlamp cleaners, a rear-view camera and the Toyota Touch 2 touchscreen-controlled multimedia system, plus Bluetooth.

Orders can now be placed and Toyota is demanding £23,842 ($36,658/€32,089) for the manual model and £24,842 ($38,192/€33,435) for the automatic variant.

Source: Toyota

February 17, 2015

AEZ Straight Shine: Perfect Choice for Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz

AEZ are famous for their wheels with good – looking designs. In order to make sure that every customer receives what they want, the company offers a rich selection of alloys. By providing tons of opportunities and options, AEZ manages to highlight the character of different BMW, Mercedes and Audi models. Straight alloys were revealed for the first time not too long ago and now the company is introducing its AEZ Straight shine. It is one out of three variants in total and it features a high gloss finish that makes it most flexible.

Seeing it for the very first time, everyone can notice that the 10 – spoke wheel demonstrates an extremely mesmerizing straightness. It is sporty. It is aggressive. And it is elegant at the same time. But this is not all because the specialists had a few more aces up their sleeves. Thanks to the concave bowl the Straight shine receives additionally explicit versatility and stance. On the surface, the flange is connected with a slight bend. What is more, there is a one-sided edge which lends the struts more dynamic and asymmetrical appearance.

If we leave the emphatic look aside, Straight shine wows with a high-class technical design. The different scope of dimensions turn it into a perfect choice for high-performance vehicles with staggered fitments. For instance, the AEZ Straight shine can ideally match the sporty virtues of Audi A4, A5 or A6. Additionally, these alloys can also enhance the progressive appearance of the 3, 4 or 5-Series BMW and can finally contribute to the impressive silhouette of Mercedes-Benz C and E-class as well as the CLS.

Dimensions:
4 holes 7.5×17, 8.0×18 inch
5 holes 7.5×17, 8.0×18, 8.5×19, 9.5×19, 8.5×20, 9.5×20 inch
Finish: high gloss
Construction: cast, single-piece
Load: up to 735 kg
TPMS: fit for TPMS, 100 % compatible with ALCAR T-ProSensor
Guarantee: 3 years

Source: AEZ

February 17, 2015

2015 Infinti Fuga Beats its Predecessor in Terms of Design and Stance

Nissan and Infiniti have introduced the redesigned 2015 Fuga in Japan. If we compare it with the previous version, the new model receives a notable makeover on the outside.

First up, the updated Infiniti Fuga impresses with a new front design that has a large mesh grille. It is flanked by LED headlights with sharper look. The sedan also arrives with an aggressive bumper with integrated LED fog lamps as well as turn signal lights. Some changes have been made at the rear end too. Well – shaped LED taillights wrapping around the fender, rear center stop lamp, refined bumper look, twin exhausts and additional chrome trim adorn the car at the back. In addition to this, the Infiniti Fuga takes advantage of 18-inch aluminum wheels. When we observe the car from the side, we can notice that there are revised exterior mirrors with turn signals.

The smooth character line of the vehicle continues on the inside too. Interior changes include a two-tone interior trim, a revamped glove box and an improved rear seat. What is more, there are wood trims adorning the cabin. Finally, the automaker pointed out that the new Fuga comes with an additional sound deadening material.

There are three engines available under the hood:

A 2.5-liter V6 with 225 PS (165 kW) and 258 Nm (190 lb-ft) of maximum torque
A 3.7-liter V6 with 333 PS (245 kW) and 363 Nm (267 lb-ft) of maximum torque
A 3.5-liter V6 Hybrid with a combined power output of 364 PS (268 kW)

2015 Infiniti Fuga is currently on sale and the starting price is that of ¥4,104,000 in Japan.

Source: Infiniti

February 17, 2015

Lexus Tweets a Teaser Image of Its LF SA Concept By Mistake!

A teaser image of the new Lexus LF SA Concept was tweeted little bit earlier today but was removed soon after that. Luckily enough, we got our hands on it! The vehicle is set to make its official premiere at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show and is rumored to be a compact hatchback which takes advantage of the well-known powertrain by Lexus.

The teaser image unveils before our eyes a model which will arrive with a dramatic front fascia. Despite the prevailing darkness, we can spot that there are nicely – shaped headlights, air intake and an aggressively – looking Lexus grille. Thanks to the subtle lightening, it becomes obvious that the grille has adopted a fresh design which is slightly different from that seen on the production models so far. Additionally, the model also has a prominent hood and boomerang – shaped LED daytime running lights which also adorn the silhouette of the LF SA Concept. Finally, well – formed wheel arches add an extra tone of stylishness.

Lexus shares that this is a luxurious driver-focused Lexus LF SA which is created in a way that looks towards a future world that is more technologically – influenced. Combining spectacular driving characteristics and technology, this is a vehicle that is ready to expand the brand’s capabilities to an unmatched level. The production model is expected to arrive in 2018 and is said to be based on the Toyota Yaris. More information will come soon!

Source: Lexus

February 17, 2015

Author: Katya Mikova