Katya Mikova – Page 30 – Automobiles Review

Mini F56 with a New KW Coilover Kit

This summer Thomas Fürst and Fritz Kreis from Gigamot Racing took the new MINI F56 for a round-the-world tour titled “MINI goes all around” and tested its new KW coilover kit. Covering a distance of 22.000 km and passing the deserts of New Mexico, the mountains of Japan and overcoming severe weather conditions in Siberia, the MINI F56 with the installed kit demonstrated astonishing performance.

The KW coilover kit was used on the MINI during the trip around the world and enables a continuous lowering of about 20 to 45 mm on the front and on the rear side. The dampers are adjustable and they can be altered depending on the road conditions so that the driving is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

There are three KW coilover kit variants – V1, V2 and V3, all of which are made of stainless steel. KW coilover kit V1 has a sporty, balanced damping setup which is set beforehand by KW at the factory. KW coilover kit V2 and V3 feature rebound adjustments. In addition, apart from being offered with separately adjustable compression, V3 coilover comes with rebound damping and is able to minimize harsh rides. The adjustable compression can be implemented at the lower end of the stainless steel strut without the need of using any tools. In consequence, the driver is enabled to control the pitch and roll of the body without making any changes to rebound damping.

As a result, with the new KW coilover kit the MINI F56 displays better performance, bigger comfort and improved driving-experience.

Source: KW automotive

November 3, 2014

The All-new Mazda2: Technologically Advanced, Interiorly Rich

The all-new Mazda 2 is designed to bring comfort and absolute driving experience. Now SKYACTIV Technology and the “KODO – Soul of Motion” design theme have decided to work together and transform Mazda’s qualities into even more class-beating and sophisticated characteristics.

KODO is renowned for its outstanding and dynamic refinements which it works on a car. With its defining design philosophy, it brings powerful stance, determine bodylook and strong expressions that strike the heart. The characteristics of Mazda2 are now conveyed with a better attitude and presence which is stronger than ever before. Like other KODO-based Mazdas, this model also features the signature wing Mazda grill and aggressive, carnivore-like headlamps along with highlighted character lines and rear-leaning cabin. There is also a slightly longer wheelbase. The car can be purchased with 15 and 16-inch aluminum or 15-inch steel wheels. This is the first Mazda that has four-lamp LED design that accompanies the dynamic round signature of the low-slung headlamps. The latter contribute to the U-shaped signature of the horizontal combination taillights.

The SKYACTIV Technology establishes a perfect balance between economy and performance. The engines and transmissions are properly upgraded for this particular size of car. The body and chassis are given the strongest and most cohesive enhancements which provide with the best ride quality and smooth responsiveness. In terms of safety, the all-new Mazda2 is equipped with a progressive high-tech innovations like the MZD Connect in-car connectivity concept and i-ACTIVSENSE active safety systems which answer the requests of the modern-day drivers.

Superminis are known for their economy, affordability, safety, rich equipment and their easy-to-be-driven mode. All of these are presented one level up on Mazda2 thanks to KODO enhancements. The all-new Mazda2 is the fourth Mazda model which has been given a KODO – Soul of Motion design. The cabin is crafted to seem more spacious and brings a feel of being more practical and convenient too. Thanks to KODO refinements, the position of the pedals along with the seats and steering wheel adjustments there is enough space for taller drivers too. Limit is not a word that features KODO’s dictionary. Finally, the upgraded Mazda2 includes an innovative human-machine interface (HMI), Active Driving Display and seven-inch touchscreen, updated Mazda2 navigation system and more.

The Mazda2 comes with SKYACTIV-D 1.5-liter engine which has low compression, great torque and excellent fuel economy. The output is that of 105hp (77 kW) at 4,000 rpm and 220 Nm at 1,400-3,200 rpm. The fuel economy and CO2 emissions are estimated at 3.41/100km and 89g/km.
SKYACTIVE-G 1.5-liter is available for the smaller packaging of the all-new Mazda2 in three variants. It has highly competitive fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 4.7l/100km and 110g/km (with five-speed SKYACTIV-MT manual gearbox).

It is officially scheduled for launch in Europe in five-door hatchback version in early 2015.

Source: Mazda

November 3, 2014

Nissan Qashqai Clocked up Two Million Units in Record Time

The British-built Nissan Qashqai hits more than two million unit-sales in just eight years of production. It is an event which marks a highly significant stage in the fast-progressive development of Nissan.

The unquestioned style, technology, design and level of performance help Nissan move from one strong point to another. With this manufacturing milestone now, Qashqai sets a remarkable year for the automotive company, thus polishing even more its marvelous reputation. The launch of the new generation model in January and winning What Car? magazine’s coveted Car of the Year, as well as Tow Car’s ‘Car of the Year’, ebay customers’ ‘New Car of the Year’ and the Prize for Quality from prestigious Spanish business magazine Ejecutivos all add up quite some weight and importance to the successful 2014 of the motor company.

The two million customers and their obvious interest in the brand are clear testimony for their loyalty and trust in Nissan’s productions. The high sales prove that the company continues to evolve, develop and accomplish results which are better than expected. What is more, according to the UK Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, the Rt Hon Dr Vince Cable MP; “Nissan is one of the driving forces behind the UK’s world-renowned automotive industry.”

The finest small SUV is powered by 1.5-liter diesel dCi engine which is punchy enough and capable of generating 110 hp (81 kW). It has CO2 emissions of just 99g/km. Qashqai’s diesel range with 1.6 dCi delivers 130 hp (96kW). Next, the 1.6 dCi, which comes in two-wheel-drive manual form, has CO2 emissions of 115g/km. The petrol 1.2 DIG-T unit delivers 115 hp (85 kW) and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque. It emits 129g/km of CO2 and has a fuel consumption figure of 50.4mpg. Finally, the 1.6 DIG-T produces 150 hp (110 kW) and 240Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque. Its fuel consumption is 50.4mpg, while CO2 emissions are 132g/km.

Source: Nissan

November 3, 2014

Hyundai Elantra Reaches 10 Million Unit Milestone

The huge success of Hyundai does not cease to impress people. Recently the Korean automotive company announced that its 2015 Elantra sedan (which is also known as Avante in some other parts of the world) surpassed the 10 million sales mark since its start in 1990. The striking achievement becomes even more striking when you take into consideration that Hyundai Elantra is the first model produced by Hyundai manufacturer and also one of the 10 cars in the whole auto-history to make such an amazing boom. This reputable accomplishment is possible thanks to the average sales of 420,000 per year which is rated approximately at 1,100 a day. Mind-blowing, isn’t it?

“Reaching this historic mark is a testament to Elantra’s staying power and the global appeal of a vehicle that delivers design, functionality and performance,” pointed out Bob Pradzinski, vice president of National Sales, Hyundai Motor America. He continued and added that; “As a company it also shows our ability to quickly adapt to changing consumer preferences and continue to push the compact car segment with features once reserved for luxury vehicles.”

The most recent Elantra model keeps its position of a leader among the exclusively competitive compact car range. This has been confirmed by several prestigious awards which the Elantra has achieved, thus including ranking the highest in its segment for initial quality in the influential J.D. Power 2014 U.S. Initial Quality Study^SM (IQS). Elantra is also the three-time winner (during 2011, 2012 and 2013) of the ALG Residual Value Awards and remains one of the most desirable and purchased vehicles in the segment.

Source: Hyundai

November 3, 2014

All-New Lincoln Cars Designed to Provide Ultimate Quietness

In a recent press release Lincoln Motor Company is showing off with its all-new Lincoln vehicles’ interior which is proclaimed to be among the quietest ones worldwide. But is this really so?

Satisfying customers’ needs and providing them with the best quality of production is one of the primary goals in every car industry. Therefore, implementing new clever engineering, high-class manufacturing and outstanding design elements is a step that pushes Lincoln cars further on. As Scott Tobin director, Lincoln Product Development, comments; “To attract a new luxury client, we’re elevating all aspects of the driving experience, including an intense focus on providing a quiet interior. A combination of engineering, manufacturing and design related actions are being implemented to provide a calm, comfortable environment, and a better customer experience.

Part of the technologies which are used in order to reduce the noise and provide an atmosphere as calm as possible include sound-absorbing interior trim panels and noise-reducing material in the pillars, trim panels and carpets. What is more, Lincoln vehicles come with acoustic and aero-designed mirrors that are able to control the airflow across the side to decrease cabin noise. There is also acoustic-laminate windshield and front side glass that work to reduce highway-speed noise levels. The quiet environment in the car is further possible due to active noise control which ‘examines’ and captures the sound. Through inverted sound waves, the active noise control casts away the unwanted sound-disturbances. Finally, the “Do Not Disturb” feature on SYNC blocks incoming calls which are automatically diverted to voicemail. The text messages, respectively, are saved on the device so they can be checked later.

By all means then, Lincoln successfully achieves ultimate quiet interior which also demonstrates comfort, smoothness and assertiveness. What do you think? Is this quiet enough for you?

Source: Lincoln

November 3, 2014

Created with Class, Designed as an Icon: Special Edition Vorsteiner GTRS4

In order to celebrate its 10 year anniversary, the American tuner car manufacturer Vorsteiner has created a special limited edition vehicle that has the enigmatic name of GTRS4. It becomes obvious from the released pictures, that the car will take the world out of its orbit and will shake it so hard that everything ordinary will drop on the ground. We see a legend! We see an icon! We see perfectness in extraordinary glare!

The upgraded vehicle is based on the 2015 BMW M4 Coupe and will feature carbon fiber body kit. The focus of the Vorsteiner’s team of professionals is directed towards crafting an organic design that not only fits the initial body lines of the BMW M4 but also preserve and demonstrate a full capacity of functionality and everyday drivability.

Making sure that every detail is set to its best, the tuner revolutionized their GTS package from last month, providing the coupe with ESS Tuning’s E-Tronic engine which will be able to fire up output from around 431 HP (317 kW) to 550 HP (405 kW). The exclusive BMW M4 GTRS4 comes with three-piece 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped around in Pirelli P Nero tires and KW Suspension. There is no information about the performance details yet but the stock BMW M4 Coupe boosts to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 4.1 seconds with the optional seven-speed M DCT. With the standard six-speed manual gearbox, though, the car accomplishes it in 4.3 seconds.

The Special Edition GTRS4 package will include:

Carbon Fiber Front Bumper with an Integrated Front Splitter Element
Carbon Fiber Wide Front Fender with Ventilation (2 inches wider on each side)
Carbon Fiber Aero Side Blade Elements
Carbon Fiber Wide rear Fender (3.5 inches wider on each side)
Carbon Fiber Rear Bumpers with an Integrated Rear Diffuser Element
Vorsteiner 90mm Quad Exhaust Tip Finishers ( in Brushed or Black nuance)
Vorsteiner Chrome Trunk Badging
GTRS4 Forged 3-Piece Wheels, 20×10.5 J; 20×13.5J in Gloss Brushed Shadow

Source: Vorsteiner

October 31, 2014

Three Customized Versions of 2015 Ford Expedition Part of the Annual Sema Show

This year at the annual Sema Show in Las Vegas, Ford is going to present three new customized vehicles which are part of Ford Expedition. With a set of the latest technologies, dashing style, aggressive snow warrior and high horsepower, the extended length versions mark the beginning of a legend.

2015 Ford Expedition Tjin Edition is powered by 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that produces 365 hp (272 kW) and has a six-speed automatic transmission. It receives custom-made Vortech Engeneering charge cooler kit, custom side exhaust from MagnaFlow, high-performance oils and lubricants from Royal Purple and custom tuneup. The Tjin Edition Ford Expedition growls with additional 40 hp which makes a total of 405 hp (302 kW). The car is also equipped with 24-inch custom Rotiform wheels and Falken tires, brake system from Baer Brakes, Air Lift struts and, finally, an Accuair air management system. The exterior is presented with sheer sophistication and individuality. It has twin Webasto sunroofs, custom metal fender flares, a custom dark gray paint job and a new lift-gate.

2015 Ford Expedition by DUB Magazine starts with 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine which has received an exhaust system from Borla Performance. The vehicle comes with high-performance brakes and a suspension kit from McGaughy’s Suspension Lift Kits which lowers the vehicle. The integrated technology-comfort is of a high class too. There is internet accessibility, an updated multimedia and sound system, enhanced seats, and custom adaptable LED lighting which can be controlled by remote installed inside on the front row.

Last but not least, 2015 Ford Expedition XLT by Vaccar is really of a priceless significance during the cold winter time because it is meant for winter driving. Staying true to the other representatives of 2015 Ford Expedition, this one is also powered by 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. The combination of aggressive exterior design and interior convenience shape the vehicle as a class-leader in its range.

Source: Ford

October 31, 2014

2015 Mercedes-Benz V-Class Brims with Design and Technology

With the V-Class, Mercedes-Benz successfully redefines what vans stand for. Yet, the first appearance of the new 2015 Mercedes-Benz V-Class at the 2014 Geneva Auto Show did not seem to throw everyone in ecstasy. This could be changed.

The all new V-Class contains a sort of eye-catching luxury, safety, high-class appeal, comfort and space which are enough to put it at the top of its class. The sporty maxi van offers seating and luggage space for up to eight people which makes it ideal for those who appreciate and prefer bigger spaciousness without discarding elegancy and convenience.

Additionally, the car features Eibach Pro-Kit ad Pro-Spacer both of which improve the performance of the vehicle. On the one hand, the integrated Pro-Kit Performance Springs provide the van with a slightly sportier perception. The Pro-Kit also offers excellent performance handling, progressive spring design, top driving quality and gives a moderate lowering of the center of gravity which lowers the vehicle up to 40mm. On the other hand, there is the Pro-Spacer which is made from high-tensile –strength aluminum alloy. As a result, it brings a fundamental weight advantage compared to wheel spacers made from steel. Moreover, the Pro-Spacer widens the driver’s stance which results in better handling, again, and better appearance.

The interior of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class maxi van is quite striking in its very own way. The dashboard can be found in four versions of décor. In order to manage the optional COMAND infotainment system in easier and more practical way, there is a multi-gesture touchpad. For ultimate and safe experience while driving, there’s a microphone up front that’s linked into the stereo system so when the driver speaks, he or she does not have to turn around. Nice, eh?

Source: Mercedes-Benz

October 31, 2014

BMW X6 M boosted to 680 HP and 849 Nm by Madness Motorsport

Since the attention of every BMW fan has been conquered by the new BMW X6 M which was introduced just yesterday, let’s go back a bit and look at the old one… a special one.

Initially, the previous X6 M is propelled by a monstrous 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine which produces 555hp (408 kW) at 6000RPM and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque at just 1500RPM. The power is transmitted to the road through the dynamic xDrive four-wheel-drive system. What is more, the performance of the car is mind-blowingly good. It speeds up to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds, and achieves acceleration to 200 km/h in 16.9 seconds. The top speed is of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

Impressive as it is, with the enhancements delivered by the Bulgarian tuning company Madness Motorsport the previous version BMW X6 M gets even better performance results. According to the owner of the car, who informed MM, the car was too quiet and too slow. Solution? Customized refinement! The updates that the X6 M received were comprised of custom downpipes, deCat & custom exhaust system and ala grande Madness Motorsport Software. With the new upgrades the car is able to produce 680hp (500 kW) and 849 Nm (626 lb-ft) of torque. The beast just got even beastlier.

Check the link bellow to see what the customized BMW X6 M looks like… and sounds like.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5YOQKpYTS8

Source: Madness Motorsport

October 31, 2014

Skoda Octavia RS Combi Diesel Optimized by Mcchip-DKR

The upgraded Skoda Octavia RS Combi Diesel might just be the new big thing. With the help of the German tuning company mcchip-dk, the diesel incarnation of the sedan becomes slightly more… hermetic. It is a real catch for the eyes of combi-lovers.

The vRS Diesel model has always been, in a way, out of the ordinary. And yet with the new tuning package it becomes even more so. Initially with its 2.0 liter TDI engine the family car produces 184 HP (135 kW) and 380 Nm of torque. With the upgrade program, though, things are quite different. Changes start right under the hood where the engine unit gets an ECU remap. Mcchip-dk strengthens the power of the car and boosts it to 215 HP (158 kW) with 415 Nm of maximum torque. According to the information provided by the tuner, this optimization will cost you the modest sum of 849.00 Euro.

Another spicy improvement on the Skoda Octavia RS Combi Diesel is in its connection to the road. The new ST sport suspension high performance springs bring the car closer to the ground by lowering the ride height by 30 mm on each front and rear axle. The suspension kit can be purchased for 179.00 Euro plus mounting. Furthermore, there is a set of wheel of multi-spoke design that really stands out. The Xtra Wheel rims in SW5 design are sized 8,5×19 ET40 and are dressed by Dunlop tires type Sport Maxx GT in 225/35ZR19. The great wheel-tire-combination comes in a stylish mat black. The price for the set of wheels is estimated at 1,590.00 Euro.

Source: Mcchip-dkr

October 31, 2014

2014 World’s Greatest Drag Race

Motor Trend has once again presented us with their annual World’s Greatest Drag Race video. How can a person not love it when in the last video we can see 10 of the world’s most badass sports car and supercars gathered in one place?! That’s pretty freaking amazing! So prepare for a mixture of epic sound, speed and performance!

This year, the lineup shows off with some stunningly fast cars for sure. The group of ten is comprised of the following beauties: Porsche 911 Turbo S (560 HP), BMW i8 (357 HP), BMW M4 (425 HP), Alfa Romeo 4C (237 HP), Ford Fiesta ST (197 HP), Jaguar F-Type R Coupe (550 HP), Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 (505 HP), Nissan GT-R NISMO (600 HP), Volkswagen GTI (217 HP) and Subaru WRX STI (305 HP). Well, well, give me one of those head-scratchers for a day and I will be more than glad to take the keys.

Predictable as it may be, the ¼ mile drag race is firstly blasted-off by the all-wheel-drive and turbocharged duo of Porche 911, followed closely by Nissan GT-R NISMO. So take out and wave the 911 flag and still congratulate Nissan fans for the great performance of the GT-R NISMO.

The winner scores 10.9 second time at 126 mph which gains it the leading and winning place. Second comes the GT-R at 11.1 seconds and 125.3 mph. The third place is achieved by Jaguar at 11.8 seconds at 122.3 mph. The rest is as it follows: BMW M4 – 12.2 seconds at 117.8 mph; Camaro Z/28 – 12.3 seconds at 117.2 mph; BMW i8 – 12.4 seconds and 112.1 mph; Alfa Romeo 4C – 12.8 seconds at 104.8; Subaru – 13.1 seconds at 104.4 mph; Volkswagen – 14.5 seconds and 97.9 mph and, finally, Ford Fiesta ST with 14.9 seconds and 94.6 mph.

Click on the link to also enjoy the fun!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQ9NVz_LKj8

Source: Motor Trend Channel YouTube

October 30, 2014

BMW X5 M and X6 M: The Ultimate Pleasure of Driving

The second-generation BMW X5 M and X6 M have finally made their arrival for the speed-obsessed and crossover lovers. The X5 M and X6 M have been reborn. This time with more power, more torque, more style and better driving experience all of which make this pair of darlings some of the most wanted vehicles worldwide.

While the new models retain their 4.4-liter, when compared to the 2009 models, the new Ms bring enhancements of up to 10 per cent in terms of power, torque and performance while, in fact, they have lowered fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by over 20 per cent. To cast some light on those raw statistics, the power of the BMW new models has been sufficiently increased from 555 horsepower to 567 horseSUPERpower (423 kW). Staying true to their twin-turbocharged V8 engines, both of the cars are powered by a bran-new 4.4-litre M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine with two TwinScroll turbochargers. The combination of power and torque outputs (750 Nm) outline this engine as the most powerful and efficient one ever created by BMW for four-wheel-drive cars. Finally, BMW X5 M and X6 M fire up from 0 to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds at a tops speed of 155 mph.

Of course, it is not just the statistics above which make BMW’s M cars so distinctive. There are cardinal aesthetic updates interiorly and exteriorly in order to suit and complete the high-performance behavior of those machines. X5 M and X6 M combine sportiness with luxurious style. The sporty exterior design of the new models is function-oriented. The eye-catching looks of the cars is complimented by the flared wheel arches, standard 21-inch M wheels, four large air intakes in the front fascia and, perhaps, the best twin-stalk exterior door mirrors that can be seen on a production car.

The interior is highlighted by new over-large steering wheel which is completed with aluminum paddle shifters. The design of the seats is deliberately more aggressive which works in perfect harmony with, again, the sporty nature of the BMW’s new beauties.

The BMW X5 M and X6 M will be available from 11 April, 2015, and will be priced at £90,170 and £93,070. Both models will hit the US market next spring – $99,650 for the X5 M and $103,050 for the X6 M.

Source: BMW

October 30, 2014

Author: Katya Mikova