Katya Mikova – Page 5 – Automobiles Review

Mercedes-AMG GT3 Teased Before Its Debut

Back in November last year, Mercedes-AMG made an announcement regarding its new GT3 which is set to make its debut next month in Geneva. Now, the company has displayed two images of the same upcoming vehicle.

The two design sketches reveal an automobile which has wider body kit, underlined by flared wheel arches, a lot of additional air vents and a massive rear wing which brings more downforce to the rear axle. The new Mercedes-AMG GT3 is compliant with the FIA GT3 requirements and regulations and is going to hit the track for the 2016 season. This means that we are going to say goodbye to the SLS AMG GT3. When comparing it to the new model, SLS AMG GT3 racer exhibits less aggressive presence. So the new racer might really be a good replacement after all.

No technical and performance details have been shared so far. What we know for sure, though, is that everything will be unveiled soon as the GT3 will be brought to the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. After that, the Mercedes-AMG GT3 will go through an “intense testing and development period” in order to be reinforced and made ready for the FIA GT3 Championship season in 2016.

Source: Mercedes-AMG

February 13, 2015

ABT Individual Makes Dreams Come True

ABT Sportsline developed an “Individual” programme which is more than just some body kits, engine upgrades and suspension features. This time, the components are designed in a way that make cars more individualized, unique and even extravagant. What is more, the exterior and interior of models that benefit from the tuning package gain exclusive proportions, dynamism and sophistication.

In terms of the exterior, the tuner offers individual body color, special wheel outlines, customized body parts, tailor-made engine performance upgrades and personal lettering on the exhaust pipes. Thanks to the ABT Individual, the interior arrives with leather upholstery which is smooth, back – stitched or suede. It can be found on seats, switches, steering wheels and under roofs. For more personalization, extra design elements, logos and special color combinations can be added too.

Hans-Jürgen Abt, CEO of the globally largest tuner of VW and Audi cars says that; “If you go to ABT Sportsline, you are looking for something special. And for some, even that is not enough. For this very exclusive group of customers we now have tailor-made solutions.”

According to the top manager, people who own a top model like Audi S8, RS6 or the new Q7, for example, would really appreciate an additional doze of exceptional individualization. One thing is for sure then: bespoke designs are what make car owners feel special when driving their unmatched vehicles.

Source: ABT

February 12, 2015

Cobra Accessories Adorn the new Mercedes V-Class and Vito vans

Cobra Mercedes V-Class

Cobra Technology & Lifestyle offers exclusive accessories for the new Mercedes V-Class and Mercedes Vito vans. The new components are designed with such precision that they not only enhance the vans visually but also serve to protect the body against damage. Benefiting from the goodies, both the exclusive V-Class lifestyle model and the Vito are designed mainly for commercial use. With the add – on conversion parts, the vehicles are able to demonstrate exciting appearance and active safety.

The upgrade package includes front guard that has a tube diameter of 60 millimeters and arrives in three surface finishes: chrome-plated stainless steel, a titanium-look finish, and coated with matte black plastic. This accessory feature serves to provide with protection against minor fender benders. Focusing on the idea of maximized safety, the German vehicle refinement specialist Cobra Technology & Lifestyle offer auxiliary high-beam headlamps. They come as a ready-to-install kit which is comprised of two different brackets for mounting the auxiliary lights either on the top or bottom tube of the front guard.

Additionally, Cobra Technology & Lifestyle Mercedes V-Class and Mercedes Vito vans receive an upgrade on the sides too. Thanks to the rocker panel guards that can be installed, the access and exit as well as the loading and unloading becomes much easier. The stainless-steel components are available for vans with one or two sliding doors and can be purchased in a matte black, chrome-plated or titanium-look finish. Another option, though, is the Cobra Technology & Lifestyle rocker panel guards that embrace the body, thus, protecting the sides of the van. They come in diameter of 60 millimeters and are available in a brushed stainless-steel version. Finally, the robust running boards for the V-Class and the Vito vans can be ordered with integrated LED entrance lights.

Source: Automediapool

February 12, 2015

AEZ Cliff Dark Alloy Wheels Highlight Cars Like Porsche

The renowned German wheel manufacturer AEZ has introduced its newest alloy wheels, named Cliff dark. The striking and very attractive design of the product is an undoubted recipe for additional eye-catching characteristics of every automotomobile that can benefit from the alloys. Exclusivity and craftsmanship are combined so that the final outcome is something that brings unquestioned style and even perfection.

Available in different dimensions, varying from 16 to 21 inches, this sophisticated and dynamic look simply matches many models. Cars such as Mini Coupe, elegant premium vehicles like Audi A6/A7 or SUVs like BMW X3, X5 or X6 can now underline their characters thanks to the AEZ Cliff dark alloys. With „a compelling newly interpreted cross-spoke design“ which suggests greateness, the Cliff dark makes the sporty presence of a certain car sportier, the elegent more elegent and the exceptional more exceptional. There are five pairs of double spokes available in front-polished silver and in a classy high gloss version.

A proof of the assertive design of the alloys and their unmached quality is the Porsche Macan that is fitted with the AEZ Cliff dark. The shaped contrasts and interplays between light and dark lend the AEZ Cliff dark Porsche Macan an extra dose of intensity and delicacy. Looking dashing and powerful, the Porsche is ready to impress onlookers.

AEZ Cliff/AEZ Cliff dark:

Dimensions (4-hole mounting): 7×16, 7×17

Dimensions (5-hole mounting): 7×16, 7×17, 8×17, 8×18, 8×19, 8.5×19, 9.5×19, 9×20,10×21, 11.5×21-nches

Finish: High Gloss / black, front polished

Construction: cast, single-piece

General Operating Permit (GOP): yes

Load: up to 1025 kg

TPMS: fit for TPMS-FIT, 100% compatible with ALCAR T- ProSensor

Specials: prepared for TPMS and snow-chains

Guarantee: 3 years

Source: AEZ

February 11, 2015

McLaren 675LT Official Image Leaked

After two teaser videos of the most – anticipated car produced by McLaren right now (the first video showing spinning wheels accompanied with relaxing classical music and the second one revealing the blasting sound of the vehicle), now there is a leaked image of this upcoming beast.

Being a reference to the 1997 McLaren F1 GTR Long Tail, the new McLaren 675LT is said to inherit the spirit of its legendary predecessor. Featuring a sufficiently transformed rear end, the 675LT promises to be an unmatched beast on the track. This car packs a twin turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine that produces symbolic figures of power. The vicious output of 666 HP (96 kW) fits the devilish nature of the model. When we talk about the vehicle, we are also looking at optimized aerodynamics in comparison to the on-going 650S Coupe. Precisely, there is a 40% increase in downforce and torque.

Furthermore, by the looks of the car, it has received a titanium exhaust system with two circular pipes placed below a reworked airbrake. Other goodies which can also be noticed are the vented rear fenders, revised diffuser, new alloy wheels adorned by orange brake calipers and altered side vents.

The official premiere of the McLaren 675LT will take place next month during the Geneva Motor Show.

Source: Autogespot

February 11, 2015

Kia K900 King James Edition Slowly Metamorphosing Into Finality

As it seems the collaborative work between Kia and LeBron James is going pretty well since the most – recently released teaser image promises us to see something really special. Unfortunately, the picture does not say a lot and all we can see is just a body panel. It is precisely the front wing that is teased, featuring a “King James Edition” emblem.

Little else is known about the Kia K900 King James Edition but it has been confirmed that the K900 will be priced at $54,500 and will be powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine. The power unit will be capable of generating 420 bhp (313 kW) and 509 Nm (376 lb-ft) of maximum torque.

Since LeBron has been involved in almost all of the phases of the creation of this car, the color of the exterior and the color combinations on the inside are expected to be selected by him as well. The saturated redness adorned with the black badge, which can be seen from the picture, might be further complimented by black rims and other inserts. Why not?

There isn’t any official information when the wraps will be finally taken off from the Kia King James Edition but there is a hint that the model’s premiere will occur during the same time as the NBA All Star game later this week. Hopefully the quiet first steps towards the introduction of the new Kia will metamorphose into a presentation of a product that won’t disappoint those who have been waiting for so long to finally see it.

Source: LeBron James via Facebook

February 11, 2015

2015 Hennessey Mustang is Almost 300 HP Faster in Texas! [VIDEO]

How fast do you think Mustang GT can go? This is rather tricky question because for such car the sky is the limit really. When 435 horsepower from the stock 5.0-liter engine is not enough, the specialists from Hennessey Performance come to the rescue. With their HPE700 package, the Ford Mustang receives a power and performance upgrade which rockets the car like never before. There is one certain thing – John Hennessey and his gang of ultimate-performance creators are not scared to travel as fast as the light.

What would make the 435-ponies-car achieve even more dazzling results than before? The answer is simple: an additional 2.9-liter supercharger, refined fuel injectors and custom engine calibration.

In order to test the immense power of the tweaked beast, Hennessey team of technicians and experts rounded up and drove to Uvalde, Texas, to do some testing on the 8.0 mile high speed oval. After completing a warm up lap, Hennessey tried the performance of the Ford Mustang GT HPE700 at a higher speed. He comments; “Cruising through the final turn I was trying to maintain 120-130 mph while building some speed as I neared the straight. When I hit the straight, I wanted to be around 140 mph and then let all of the Mustang’s horsepower run wide open. The car pulled very strong and just kept pulling. I hit a pretty nasty bump around 170 mph and kept my foot on the gas. Then I hit the rev limiter at just over 195 mph according to the Racelogic VBox display”.

So, all in all, the spectacular 195 mph top speed and 717 HP are joined by 632 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to the upgrade, the 2015 Hennessey Ford Mustang GT covers the 60 mph run in just 3.6 seconds, and completes the quarter mile in 11.2 seconds at 130 mph.

As it looks like, everything seems to run faster in Texas, don’t you think?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQsq19hPzzk

Source: Hennessey Performance

February 11, 2015

New Honda Civic Type R Images Reveal Genuine Aggression

Carmakers love playing games with customers who are expecting the new automotive hit. From the release of teaser images and videos to sharing a sentence or two about a certain upcoming vehicle, the teasing just never stops. Now the situation is quite similar with the new Civic Type R. What Honda is doing could be described as an attempt to revive the interest of those who are eagerly waiting to find out more about the car. The company gives just a little but the evoked flow and amount of attention can’t be measured really.

Trying to stay as coy as possible, Honda transforms the presentation of the 2015 Honda Civic Type R into a progressive process and every time we hear something, it adds to the information which we have already received. One thing is for sure, the jigsaw will soon be finished.

While still staying very secretive about the output of the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, Honda confirmed that the new model will come with a top speed of 270km/h (167 mph).

Judging from the pictures, it looks like Honda has tried to build something that will scratch the senses of every driver. The aggressive front bumper is shaped in a way that allows it “to inhibit air turbulence around the front wheels, cutting drag and enhancing high-speed stability.” Additionally, the newly-designed model will be fitted with a front splitter, ventilated front fenders and aerodynamic side skirts. There is going to be a prominent rear wing and underbody panels that transmit air to a sporty – looking rear diffuser.

In order to help the driver deal with the Type R’s monstrous power, the car has a specially – developed high performance Brembo brake package with four-piston calipers and 350 mm drilled discs. Finally, the appearance of the Honda Civic is completed by eye-catching 19-inch alloys which fill the wheel arches and accommodate the larger brakes.

Source: Honda

February 11, 2015

2015 Chevrolet Colorado GearOn with Nifty Accessories [VIDEO]

Chevrolet has taken the wraps off its 2015 Colorado special edition truck which arrives with GearOn accessory system. The vehicle is going to make its debut this week during the 2015 Chicago Auto Show.

The new Chevy Colorado GearOn showcases a huge variety of nifty components which have the goal to increase the truck’s agility. What is more, the most recent improvements and additions on the truck ensure enough space so that it can accommodate outdoorsy items such as skis, bikes and kayaks. The mobile, energetic and dynamic style will appeal to the so-called lifestyle customers who are always on the move and ready to dive into new driving experiences.

What distinguishes the Colorado GearOn from other trucks is the GearOn bars, divider packages and the cargo tie-down rings along with other additional features which can be purchased at an extra cost. What is more, the vehicle benefits from glossy black 18-inch alloy wheels, off-road assist steps, Lower tailgate and EZ Lift. There is also a body-colored grille as well as front and rear black Chevrolet bow-tie emblems. Finally, remote start, rear window defogger and front fog lamps are also included in the package of goodies.

According to Chevrolet, the new Colorado special edition truck will be offered on LT trim models in extended or crew cab configurations, with the long or short cargo bed and a 4WD setup. The starting price is that of $31,250 with deliveries beginning this spring.

Chevrolet Colorado GearOn special edition will premiere on February 13 at the Chicago Auto Show.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMvdMhzNgko

Source: Chevrolet

February 10, 2015

Borgward Returns and Is going to Compete with Brands Like Porsche [VIDEO]

After 50 years, the German brand Borgward is returning. It might not be as famous as BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and other German automakers but this brand produced some really spectacular models in the past. Established in 1919 by Carl F.W. Borgward, the company went bankrupt in 1961. The return of this forgotten automotive king will be marked by the release of something new during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show which is going to take place the beginning of March.

It is still unclear though what exactly Borgward has in store but expectations are growing. Releasing just a teaser video for now, the automaker shows a sports coupe in profile which kind of looks like it has inherited the spirit of the 50’s.

As mentioned before, the not – so – popular manufacturer now was writing an automotive history back in the day. The styles of the cars produced between 1919 and 1961 was considered to be ground – breaking and innovative. The progressive design incorporated class, specific presence and sophistication which labelled every vehicle as something marvellous. “As one of Germany’s largest and most successful car manufacturers of its time, Borgward created some of the most iconic cars of the early 20th century as well as a large range of commercial vehicles, trucks, buses, fire engines, boats, electric cars, sports cars and even helicopters.”

Perhaps the most notable model introduced by this German company was Borgward Isabella. The released clip offers a glimpce of the car as well as few more vehicles and some vintage racing images. But what do you think? Do Borgward cars stand a chance now?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Rrzt3tTWc0

Source: Borgward

February 10, 2015

Mercedes-Benz Vito 4×4: One better Version

Mercedes-Benz Vans are among the most reliable vehicles in the segment. They offer not only quality of driving but also sufficient safety, balance and stability which help the vans operate properly during different icy and snowy weather conditions. Now the automaker is introducing its Vito as a 4×4 model which becomes the only mid-size van offering front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and permanent all-wheel drive as well.

Being powerful and economic are also characteristics that define the nature of the new Mercedes-Benz Vito 4×4. Thanks to the new all-wheel drive system, the van impresses with solid performance on slippery surfaces. Power derives from the most powerful engine available – precisely, the four-cylinder unit that is capable of boosting 190 HP (140 kW) from its 2.15-litre displacement. The maximum torque is that of 440 Nm. The Vito 119 BlueTEC 4×4 scores a top speed of 199 km/h. Amazingly enough, the fuel consumption (NEDC combined) is only 6.4 l/100 km which is the equivalent of 169 g/km CO2.

Due to the SCR technology with AdBlue injection into the exhaust gas, the BlueTEC engine technology of the van 4×4 is compliant with the future Euro 6 emissions standard. The engine power is transported by the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with torque converter.

2015 Mercedes-Benz Vito 4×4 is available in Germany as a panel van, Mixto and Tourer in the body variants compact, long and extra long. The 140 kW version can be ordered as a Vito 119 BlueTEC 4×4 for €36,120. The 100 kW and 120 kW engine models will arrive in the following months.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 10, 2015

Manhart MHX5 750 Promised to be Faster than BMW X5M F85

Despite the fact that Manhart Performance are still being very secretive about their upcoming MHX5 750, they have decided to unveil two images of the model just to keep our attention and interest alive.

The recently – developed Manhart MHX5 750 is based on the BMW X5M F85 and will be fitted with a stylishly designed exterior. The rigid and somehow serous bodylook suggests that this car is definitely made for grownups. The masculine appeal of the MHX5 750 is underscored by a blacked out grille, bonnet made of carbon fiber and front spoiler. In addition to this, carbon fiber mirror caps can be spotted too. For an extra tone of dynamism, there is a sporty exhaust system, 23 – inch forged alloys and an impressive rear diffuser.

Power is provided by the well – known twin – turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine. It is going to be tweaked so that it can trigger 750 PS (551 kW) and 1000 Nm (737 lb-ft) of maximum torque. Even though the company refused to share any performance specifications for now, the model is expected to be much faster than the BMW X5 M. The latter is able to speed up from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 100 km/h) in 4.2 seconds before hitting a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). The X5 M arrives with 567 HP (423 kW), between 6000 and 6500 rpm.

More information about the Manhart MHX5 750 is yet to be revealed, so stay tuned!

Source: Manhart

February 10, 2015

Author: Katya Mikova