Katya Mikova – Page 6 – Automobiles Review

Redesigned Toyota Prius c: Hot or Not?

Toyota‘s hybrid Prius c range welcomes the new year with a refined exterior, interior and dynamics. Australia’s most affordable hybrid car now demonstrates sharper outline and enhanced driving environment both of which add to the smooth experience on the road. What makes this car even better than before is the reduced price and we all know that when a great car comes for less it becomes even greater. By dropping the price to $22,990 for the standard Prius c and $25,990 for the high-grade Prius c i-Tech, Toyota really gives a late Christmas present which everyone will embrace without thinking twice.

So let’s cut to the chase now. Staying true to all Toyota hybrids, the Prius c can run on either just the petrol engine, the battery alone, or can use a combination of both. Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive combines the output of a petrol engine and electric motor by taking advantage of an innovative planetary-type continuously variable transmission. The 1.5-litre petrol engine generates 54 kW while the electric motor produces 45 kW. The combined power output then is that of 74 kW. Maximum torque is estimated at 111 Nm from the engine and 169 Nm from the motor. On the combined fuel-consumption test cycle, Prius c uses just 3.9 litres per 100km using 91 RON regular unleaded petrol. CO2 emissions are 90 grams/km.

In terms of the exterior, 2015 Toyota Prius c exhibits a refreshed style which features a more aggressive hexagonal grille. Moreover, the reshaped headlights provide a sharper appearance – halogen for the entry grade and a bi-LED lamp for Toyota Prius c i-Tech. The sculpturing of the automobile is further reinforced by a larger rear spoiler and new wheel covers adopted for the 15-inch steel wheels on the standard car. The i-Tech keeps its 15-inch alloy wheels. Yet, both grades arrive with full-size spares. Three new vibrant colours are available and include: Tango (orange), Aura (light blue) and Zest (lime).

Inside, there’s a new fabric upholstery. The standard grade is able to impress thanks to the black with dark blue facings while the i-Tech’s dark-grey seats are adorned by silver stitching that can also be seen on the steering wheel. Both Prius c models are fitted with reversing camera, seven airbags, vehicle stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes, hill-start assist control and cruise control.

Source: Toyota

February 10, 2015

Jaguar Land Rover to Star in the Latest James Bond Movie

Jaguar Land Rover revealed that it is going to join the 24th James Bond adventure with three different models. A while ago we wrote that Aston Martin is also going to be part of the franchise with its revolutionary Aston Martin DB10.

The Spectre movie is obviously going to be pretty damn good. The extreme flair of dynamism and action are set to be mixed with a healthy dose of luxury and motion which are extracted from the automotive world. Regarding this exciting news, the Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations, John Edwards, commented that: “This is an exciting partnership for Jaguar Land Rover and an opportunity to demonstrate the fantastic capabilities of the Special Operations team.’’

Among the vehicles selected for the movie are the Jaguar C-X75, Range Rover Sport SVR and the revised Land Rover Defender Big Foot. The JLR vehicles which are going to be used in the upcoming film have been provided by the company’s Special Operations division and were built together with Williams Advanced Engineering. Interestingly enough, the C-X75 model will play a crucial role in a “spectacular car chase sequence” that is taking place through the streets of Rome alongside the Aston Martin DB10.

Nevertheless, this is not the first time when Jaguar and Land Rover cars have had roles in a succession of Bond films. For example, in 2012, Defender 110 Double Cab Pick Up was driven by field agent Eve Moneypenny in the opening sequence to Skyfall.

Spectre is scheduled to come out on the 6th of November this year.

Source: Jaguar Land Rover

February 9, 2015

Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG W212 Wows with 720 Wild Horses

Fostla.de is famous for its car – wrapping services using only high – quality materials. So when we talk about individualization and customization, the company at Seelze close to Hannover perfectly knows how to deal with the process. With the necessary experience and skills utilized by Fostla.de, the final result is always something that can strike and impress the customer.

This time around, Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG W212 is the model that benefits from the workmanship of the tuner. After a series of improvements, including not only an installation of a racing exhaust system with downpipes, but a PP-Performance stage 2 tuning (available for 6,299 Euro), the E 63 AMG W212 is able to demonstrate some really amazing characteristics. Initially, the vehicle is able to generate a power output of 557 serial HP (410 kW), which after the alterations in the engine electronics is boosted to 720 untamed horses (529 kW). Respectively, there has been enhanced torque figures too. The previous maximum torque of 720 serial Nm has been increased to the glorious 1,000 Nm.

Exteriorly, fostla.de provides the car with a new grill and emblems in mat black foiling. The 5% tinting of the rear lamps highlight the dynamic presence of the Fostla Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG W212. In order to make sure that the wrapping will be optimally protected when driving at high speed, the tuner has used a transparent stone chip protecting film.

Finally, the E 63 AMG is fitted with three-part LOMA GT1 super-light rims in 9×20 ET31 in combination with 255/30ZR20 tires on front and in 11×20 ET54 with 295/20ZR20 tires on the rear axle. The price per item for these rims is 1,650 Euro.

The whole performance package for 5.5 liters V8 BiTurbo costs 19,500 Euro.

Source: Miranda Media

February 9, 2015

Larte Design Will Electrify Your Senses at Top Marques Monaco 2015 Show

It is a known fact that throughout the years Larte Design has established itself as the tuner that significantly improves the stance and looks of different cars. Drawing some of the most compelling designs, the company becomes an artistic symbol of automotive passion, individuality, self – expression and uniqueness. Focusing on the implementation of precision and craftsmanship which aims to satisfy the requirements and expectations of clients, Larte Design successfully combines true elegant lines, masculinity and aggressiveness which contribute to the personalized character of a certain automobile. All of the eye – catching features incorporated into a car, transform the vehicle into a road – conquering automotive machine that is able to catch the attention of everyone.

This year from April 16 to April 19, 2015 Monaco is welcoming one of the most spectacular events in Europe – precisely, the prestigious supercar forum which is going to take place at the Top Marques Monaco 2015 show. Demonstrating sufficient confidence, Larte Design is going to present the premium electric car Tesla Model S with a bold reincarnation. Featuring a redesigned exterior with light and solid tuning components crafted out of carbon fiber reinforced plastic, the vehicle is ready to dazzle onlookers. What is more, the car also has a facelifted interior, new forged large wheels and can produce one – of – a – kind sound effect. Finally, this supercar offers 691 HP and promises excellent driving quality.

Larte Design is preparing other treats for visitors too. Alongside the supercar, there are going to be revealed two more models available for test drives: Mercedes GL with the Black Crystal tuning kit and Range Rover Sport Winner.

Source: Larte Design

February 9, 2015

Adidas and Porsche 911: An Unexpected Combination

Athleticism is measured in many different ways but Adidas seems to know how to dig its path to the best possible methods. The shoe company uses Porsche 911 as a platform which is able to commercialize and advertise their new UNCAGED adizero 5-Star 40 Football cleats. So the sporty 911 turns into a perfect base for a subtle marketing trick which promotes not just the car but a pair of shoes as well.

In order to match the athletic spirit of the Super Bowl event, Adidas is promising to provide three customized Porsche 911s to the NFL Scouting Combine runners who will achieve the best results. There is one condition only. They should wear the new UNCAGED adizero 5-Star 40 Football cleats. Just to clarify, the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine is a showcase which lasts for one week where prospective football players will go through a range of physical and mental tests before NFL coaches, general managers and scouts.

The three Porsche cars receive a uniquely designed bodylook which matches that of the shoes in question. The cheetah graphics which covers the entire back of the Porsche 911 Carrera is definitely like nothing else seen before. But it is kind of weird – looking paintwork really not only on the car but on the cleats too. Undoubtedly the winners will appreciate their prizes but I won’t be surprised if they decide to remove the graphics from the cars and make their Porsches look more… normal and less as vehicles that transport animals to the local zoo.

Source: Adidas

February 9, 2015

Could This be Seat’s Fastest-Ever Production Car?

Sometimes the name really says it all. Dubbed SEAT Leon SC Cupra 280, the sports coupe arrives with no less than 280 HP. Apart from the obvious, now the automaker is launching a performance kit for this model which copies the specific characteristics of the first front – wheel – drive car that set the sub – 8 minute Nürburgring Nordschleife lap record.

Called “Ultimate Sub8 Performance Pack,” the kit gives the SEAT Leon SC Cupra 280 more focused nature. The car is fitted with rear seats and a radio, DAB at that. In addition to this, the kit also offers 30 mm larger brakes with Brembo calipers, body colored side skirts, multi-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels in black or orange and a number of weight reduction treatments. The weight-reduction measures also replace the initial climate control with an easier and simpler heating system, while removing the center console armrest, rear air vents and storage boxes placed under the front seat. Finally, semi-slick Michelin Sport Cup 2 tires can be purchased for £460 as an option too.

Since the newly – developed pack is all about diversity, customers are given the opportunity to select either a six-speed manual or a DSG transmission. Of course, there are other standard components like the cruise control, rear parking sensors, touchscreen satellite navigation and tire pressure monitor which are also included in the pack. The Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) system and Cupra Drive Profile come as standard as well. The latter enables drivers to choose between Normal, Sport, Cupra and Individual settings in order to adjust the suspension, throttle sensitivity, gearbox and engine note.

Seat sells the “Ultimate Sub8 Performance Pack” for £4,200.

Source: SEAT

February 9, 2015

2015 Opel Corsa Envisioned in a 5-door Variant

Pictures of the new Opel Corsa leaked well ahead of the car’s official debut and now an independent designer from Hungary named X-Tomi Design took a chance and rendered a five-door variant of it. Suggested as a five-door model, the car can’t be said to look too bad.

Even though the chances of an actual production are less than zero, the envisioned Opel Corsa with five doors seems to be a good option. It will be more practical and will definitely offer bigger convenience. The three – door car is a sort of a significant upgrade of the previous 2 – door Corsa and is considered to be a huge and innovative step. So, X-Tomi Design, your creation is unlikely to come to life.

Power for the on-going and existing 2015 Opel Corsa is provided by a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, which generates 205 HP (150 kW) and 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) of maximum torque, between 1,900rpm and 5,800rpm. An overboost facility brings additional 35Nm of torque which ensures safer and smoother overtaking. Corsa VXR achieves 37.7mpg on the combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 174g/km. Power is transmitted to the front wheels thanks to a second-generation six-speed transmission that has a short, fluid gearchange.

Finally, if customers are willing to spend more money, they can get the Corsa OPC with Performance Package which includes 330 mm front brakes by Brembo, 18-inch wheels with Michelin tires, and a mechanical multi-disc differential lock produced by Drexler.

Source: Xtomi.blogspot

February 6, 2015

IGLHAUT GmbH Treats Mercedes-Benz V-Class

When Mercedes-Benz V-Class was launched, it marked the return of the V-Class presence for the first time after the first model was originally introduced back in 1996. Now, set to improve the characteristics of the Vito van, IGLHAUT equipped the vehicle with an all-wheel-drive conversion for all-terrain capabilities.

Taking advantage of the new goodies, the latest generation IGLHAUT Mercedes-Benz V-Class Vito receives optimized functions and characteristics. Thanks to the conversion kit, the V-Class gets: a permanent four-wheel-drive, high and low-ratio gearbox, 100% locking differentials in the front axle, transfer case and rear axle, chassis-lift kit, underbody protection for front axle, transfer case, sills, and brush guard, pre-separator for engine intake (snorkel) with TOP-AIR® air filter, off-road tires in various dimensions, roof rack, spare wheel carrier at the rear

In addition to this, the V-Class with IGLHAUT all-wheel-drive demonstrates:

Ground clearance: front axle/transfer case/rear axle: approx. 280/320/370 mm
Approach/Departure Angle: 30° / 40° (depending on vehicle overhang)
Breakover Angle: 32° (depending on wheelbase)
Fording depth: 600 mm
Climbing ability: 80%

In case you dont remember, there are two engines which were offered at launch in the UK. The first one is the latest 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel which is capable of producing 161 bhp and 280 lb-ft of maximum torque. The other variant is the 2.1-liter BlueTec hybrid which generates 188 bhp and 325 lb-ft of peak torque.

Source: XMedia

February 6, 2015

Suzuki Teases its iM-4 and iK-2 Concept Cars

Suzuki is going to take the wraps off of two new concept cars during the Geneva Motor Show next month. The release of the first teaser pictures for the iK-2 and iM-4 concepts marks the beginning of the bright future of the new icons which are already confirmed for production.

Starting with the iK-2, Suzuki points out that this model is “an ideal compact sized car, developed with an innovative theme of Harmonized Force.” According to the Japanese automaker, the new car will catapult the values of compact vehicle up in the space. Even though there aren’t any official specifics revealed, the Suzuki iK-2 is expected to be approximately 90 kg lighter than the Swift. In addition to this, power is likely to be provided by a new 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, apart from a diesel engine.

The second concept car is called Suzuki iM-4 and looks like a mini-SUV. Its creator says that the new model will arrive with a “compact 4×4 DNA” and a pack of technologies. What is more, the mini 4×4 will try to conquer the market with “distinctive styling that will give real inspiration to drivers.”

Along with those innovative vehicles, Suzuki is planning to launch six all-new models by 2017.

Source: Suzuki

February 6, 2015

Audi Shows Fifty-Shades-of-Grey-Inspired Video Clip [VIDEO]

Since Audi is the official partner of the soon-to-be-revealed movie titled Fifty Shades of Grey, it has shown a new video where Vanessa Bayer is trying to seduce strangers in an elevator. And we have to admit that it is pretty hilarious.

Many famous singers and performers, like Beyonce and The Weeknd, have been inspired by the worldwide phenomenon Fifty Shades of Grey. But it hasn’t left an imprint on the music industry only. The domination of the box office has reached even productions such as Spongebob Squarepants as well. And now Audi has asked Saturday Night Live’s star to recreate perhaps the most popular scene in the movie industry so far.

The attempts of the desperate woman fail to bring her the so-wanted results but we at least are presented with something genuinely funny. Her pickup lines like “I’m working out right now. Kegels. Making everything real strong” and “You’re so dominant,” as well as the gestures, facial expressions and mimics are an unquestioned recipe for a failure.

What really stands behind this video is the idea of Audi to promote itself as well because in the upcoming movie different characters will drive Audi models such as the S7, S8, Q3, A3 and Audi R8 V10 Spyder. So what’s better than making a parody out of the film and showing a shadowy image of Audi vehicle at the end? Nothing.

Well done, Audi! You know how to play with subtleties!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=utP3ROiT_DM

Source: Audi via Youtube

February 6, 2015

LARTE Design Range Rover Sport Winner: Winner at Horse Race

Russian Tuning company Larte Design has come up with an aggressively looking design for the Range Rover Sport and presented it at last year’s Essen Motor Show. Apart from new components for the vehicle, it also received a minor addition to its name. Dubbed “Winner”, the luxury SUV was the main star in a new photo shooting on the Gelsenkirchen (Germany) trotting course.

Horse races are a popular thing around the globe. They are accompanied by a certain amount of adrenaline which makes people hold their breath while waiting to see the final result. Something else that can make people do the same is the new Range Rover Sport Winner.

The styling programme underlines the dynamic look of the automobile by providing with a uniquely shaped front fascia that has a new grille sporting three trapezoidal frames and a lower sporty-looking grille with blue accents which “lend the car even more character and an artistic touch.” The revised horizontal LED daytime running lights contribute to the seemingly natural bodylook of the Sport Winner as well. In addition to this, there is a black “sport band” that flows down to the rear where a prominent roof spoiler, third brake light and Remus quad exhaust system are placed too.

Finally, Larte Design Range Rover Sport Winner benefits from a set of gloss-black ten-double-spoke alloy wheels, new rear bumper and boomerang grids.

Source: Larte Design

February 6, 2015

See the Glory of the 2015 BMW M6 in Motion [VIDEO]

The one true God among all powerful automobiles is the iconic BMW M6 which is available either as a coupe or as a convertible. It is visually splendid, with a design that breaks down the boundaries between what can be achieved and what cannot in the automotive universe.

In a recently published video, BMW unleashes the wild spirit of the unbeatable M6, thus underlining its superb and exhilarating character. In addition to this, the sporty and luxurious high-performance essence of the 2015 BMW M6 is pointed out as well. Being a time-honored synonym for superiority, dominance and class, the model imposes fuming exclusivity beyond compare. Just seeing this unrivaled beauty on a picture can make your head spin. Imagine what seeing it in motion can do. Showing the highest of standards in terms of performance, handling, comfort, technology and appearance, the car climbs the top of its existence.

Just as a reminder, the new BMW M6 Coupe, BMW M6 Convertible and BMW M6 Gran Coupe are powered by a 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine that dazzles with 560 HP (412 kW) between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm, while the maximum torque is that of 680 Nm (501 lb-ft)

Check out the link bellow to see the outstanding presence of the models.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9-TLRA8PpE

Source: BMW via Youtube

February 5, 2015

Author: Katya Mikova