Katya Mikova – Page 7 – Automobiles Review

Infiniti QX30 Concept Teased

We were expecting Infiniti to unveil its crossover variant of the upcoming Q30 compact car and today we finally got our chance to catch a glimpse of it. The released teaser image is of a concept version that is going to make its premiere next month during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.

The new Infiniti QX30 concept car is said to match the “urban – week – and – get – away – weekend lifestyle” of customers. According to the carmaker, this model is going to be an example of how the sleek lines of a coupe are combined with the rugged appearance and commanding seating position of a crossover. The SUV-like look is partially obvious from the image which depicts an intriguing rear end underscored by an interesting tailgate and well-shaped LED taillights. Moreover, the huge rear bumper is completed by large exhaust tips.

Beefed up tires and massive wheel arches also adorn the silhouette of the QX30 concept. Along with the Q30 hatch, both cars will receive a production version later this year. Despite the fact that there is still plenty of information that is missing, Infiniti revealed that its QX30 will be based on the Mercedes-Benz MFA premium compact car platform developed for GLA compact crossover. The Infiniti Q30, on the other hand, will be similar to Mercedes-Benz MFA-based A-Class hatch.

Source: Infiniti

February 5, 2015

The MINI Sport Pack adds style & boosts residual value

There is unquestioned presence of sportiness in the MINI’s DNA but now customers can get their compact cars with additional sporty flair. Thanks to the new Sport Pack, MINI 3-Door or 5-Door Hatch can reinforce their athletic appearance.

It is not a secret that MINI hatches are among the most wanted cars, with the 3-Door Hatch being a class-leading RVs. Available on all models, the MINI Sport Pack provides the automobiles with even more class-leading characteristics, refreshed styling and refined performance equipment. Some of the desirable features are: new bonnet stripes, sport suspension, 17-inch Track Spoke alloy wheels in silver or black, John Cooper Works steering wheel (with cruise and multifunction control) and John Cooper Works spoiler.

The full list of equipment included in the Sport Pack (in addition to existing Chili Pack content):

Cloth/leather Diamond upholstery
Multi-function controls for steering wheel
Bonnet stripes
Sport suspension (not for MINI One & One D)
17″ Track Spoke alloy wheels in silver or black
John Cooper Works steering wheel
John Cooper Works roof spoiler
John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit
Floor mats
Passenger seat height adjustment
Storage compartment pack
Anthracite headlining
Piano Black interior trim
MINI Excitement Pack
MINI Driving Modes
Rain sensor and automatic headlight activation
Air conditioning, dual-zone automatic
Interior lights pack
MINI John Cooper Works door sill finishers

Pricing of the MINI Sport Pack varies depending on which model it is being added to. The pack for One and One D is £4,500, for Cooper and Cooper D it costs £4,300, for MINI Cooper S and Cooper SD is £3,300.

Source: MINI

February 5, 2015

The New Volkswagen Caddy with a Variety of Engines

Volkswagen has introduced the fourth – generation of its well – known Caddy and is expected to score the same or even bigger success like the third – generation which hit more than 1.5 million sales around the globe during its eleven-year production.

This model arrives with a number of engines including a 1.0-liter TSI three-cylinder with 102 PS (75 kW), a 1.2-liter TSI four-cylinder producing 84 PS (62 kW) and a 1.4-liter TSI four-cylinder that is capable of generating 125 PS (92 kW). What is more, there will be four TDI engines as well. They will be able to deliver a power output ranging from 75 PS (55 kW) to 150 PS (110 kW).

Some of the upgraded features for the 2015 Volkswagen Caddy are represented by a new front end that has a larger grille. The latter is characterized by redesigned headlights. Alterations in terms of the style continue at the back too. There is a new rear bumper, revised taillights and a modified tailgate.

Bigger modifications can be found in the cabin where Volkswagen Caddy adopts some very striking components. For example, the modern look of the car is accentuated by new door panels, reworked switchgear, as well as new steering wheel and dashboard. The automaker pointed out that the vehicle can be fitted with plenty of safety and comfort features such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Discover Media radio-navigation system, Composition Media radios and Composition Color infotainment systems. There is an optional ‘Park Assist’ system too. It enables automated parallel parking and parking at right-angles to the carriageway.

Source: Volkswagen

February 5, 2015

Morgan Prepares a New Model for Geneva

The British carmaker, Morgan, does not announce very often new launches but when it does so, well, everyone seems to be pretty interested because the rarest things are the most intriguing! This time around, the company will release a new model during 2015 Geneva Motor Show which is going to take place in March.

We haven’t been given any solid information yet. What we have, though, is a single shadowy image which leaves us drooling and leads us into assuming that the new model might be somehow linked to 2012 Morgan Electric Aero Supersports vehicle or 2012 Morgan Aero Coupe. As a refresher, Morgan Aero Coupe has BMW-sourced 4.8-liter V8 engine which carries a power output of 367 HP and 361 lb-ft of torque. Since both of the cars represent an escape from the automaker’s traditional vision, we won’t be surprised if the model we are waiting for is yet another departure.

Design and performance details surrounding the new Morgan classic creation have been pretty vague at this point but the company is promising to reveal more over the next couple of weeks. Being as scarce, secretive and unspecific as possible is a combination that achieves two things: on the one hand it makes you hungrier to find out more, on the other hand it is kind of annoying. For now patience is the answer.

Source: Morgan

February 5, 2015

Mercedes-Benz Presents A, CLA and GLA Street Style Special Editions

Mercedes-Benz has presented special edition A, CLA and GLA models in Germany called Street Style.

First in the line-up is the Mercedes-Benz A 180 Street Style. It features an AMG body kit which includes bi-xenon headlights, a diamond front grille, Mercedes-Benz branded brake calipers and 18-inch 5-spoke alloys. Inside, there are heated front seats, red contrast stitching, sport steering wheel, AMG-labeled floor mats.

Next comes Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 Street Style which borrows some of the components of the first variant. The CLA 180 Street Style, therefore, is also equipped with an AMG body kit and has a diamond grille as well as dual exhaust system with chromed tailpipes. Bi-xenon headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels and a sport-tuned suspension are available too. In terms of its interior, the car has copied the majority of components featuring in the A 180 Street Style: sport steering wheel, heated front seats, AMG branded floor mat aluminum door sill plates and red contrast stitching.

Finally, we have the Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 Street Style. This one is fitted with an AMG body kit, aluminum roof rails, bi-xenon headlights and an extra chrome trim. There are also Mercedes-Benz branded brake calipers, 19-inch alloys and an “off-road comfort” suspension system. The cabin has heated front seats, a sport steering wheel, AMG floor mats and stainless steel pedals. Let’s not forget the red contrast stitching which adorns the interior as well.

The starting price of these Mercedes-Benz special editions is that of €27,965. The cars will go on sale in March.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 4, 2015

McLaren MSO 650S Project Kilo: The Carbon King

McLaren MSO 650S Project Kilo - Rear view

McLaren Special Operations (MSO) has presented the mind-blowing 650S Project Kilo model. Every now and then, the company likes to dazzle and boast around with their one – off creations and every time they decide to show something new, the result is just unbeatable.

According to McLaren this is “one of the most personalized, bespoke projects that MSO have undertaken to date.” McLaren MSO 650S Project Kilo becomes a carbon-crazed automotive terminator which has been fitted with carbon fiber roof, rear diffuser, side panels and side mirrors. Have a look at the interior. It is just as distinctive and stunning as the exterior. Receiving carbon treatment on the trim parts and the instrument cluster bezel, the Project Kilo vehicle exhibits a driving environment that has the purpose to impress.

An additional dose of highlighting is represented by the orange elements which make the MSO 650S Project Kilo even more special. For example, the unmatched McLaren Orange can be seen on the inner door seams. There are also MSO logos which along with a gold plated exhaust heat shield further distinguish this model. A kiwi bird painted on the engine cover adds a significant finishing touch to the encompassing uniqueness. The bird is a reference to Bruce McLaren – the founder of the company.

McLaren MSO 650S Project Kilo - rear

Source: McLaren

February 4, 2015

All-new 2016 Nissan Maxima Officially Confirmed

Following the 90 – second Super Bowl commercial which we showed you just a few days ago, Nissan has now confirmed that the vehicle that was spotted right before the end of the video is actually the long-awaited Nissan Maxima.

Despite the so many attempts conducted by the automaker to reveal as scarce information as possible (or not to reveal anything at all), the automotive – world enthusiasts have finally received a stable “yes” from Nissan, answering the countless questions which were circling around the new vehicle. Now in order to stabilize our shaken thoughts, there are two official images revealed, finally showing 2016 Nissan Maxima.

Nevertheless, the new Maxima could not surprise anyone. From what we can see, it looks very similar to the Sport Sedan Concept which was displayed last year. And this is not really something unexpected. The flowing lines form a smooth and simple shape. There is, though, a pinch of assertiveness that underscores the overall appearance of the car.

Among the things that are missing from the picture is the information about the power unit. If we base our expectations on the Nissan Sport Sedan Concept, Nissan Maxima could be fitted with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, matched to a CVT and generating 260 HP (194 kW) minimum.

The premiere of the Nissan Maxima is going to be during the New York Auto Show in April.

Source: Nissan

February 4, 2015

Porsche Cayman GT4: Designed to Impress

Porsche has officially revealed the new Cayman GT4 which is based on the mid-engined, two-seat Cayman coupe. The car makes a crystal clear statement that its creator knows what and how things work in the automotive world so that a particular model can become one of the best ones ever made.

Power for the Porsche Cayman GT4 is delivered by a mid-mounted, 3.8-litre flat-six engine which is capable of producing 385 HP (283 kW) at 7,400 rpm. Its power, then, is transmitted by a standard six-speed manual transmission with dynamic gearbox mounts, enabling the car to speed up from a standstill to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.4 seconds, while the top speed is that of 183 mph. The vehicle’s NEDC fuel consumption is 27.4 mpg which equals 238 g/km CO2.

When we talk about the exterior of the new Cayman GT4, it is obviously very different from its siblings in the Cayman range. Its aggressive front has a front splitter and mesh grille inserts. There are larger rear spoiler, sporty-looking side scoops and a large fixed rear wing all of which are part of an aerodynamic package designed to reduce lift and produce downforce too.

Inside the cabin there are sport seats upholstered in leather and Alcantara for guaranteed style and comfort. The sport steering wheel promises perfect control and direct steering feedback. In case this does not satisfy you, the GT4 can be fitted with a number of other goodies including carbon ceramic brakes, carbon fiber reinforced plastic seats and a special Sport Chrono Package with a one-of-a-kind Track Precision app.

2015 Porsche Cayman GT4 is set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show. It is already available to order with German prices starting at €85,779. In U.S. it will cost $84,600.

Source: Porsche

February 4, 2015

Rolls-Royce Phantom ‘Nighthawk’ Climbs the Top in North America

Phantom could be said to be the pinnacle model of Rolls-Royce! Designed in a way that strikes the world with the impression that this is the best car around the globe, it arrives with absolutely no compromise. It combines the most stunning, skillful and unparalleled abilities of the automakers which results in a product like no other in the market. The mixture of a visible modern twist with a classic super – luxury appeal showcase the unrivalled capabilities of Rolls-Royce.

The newest addition to the Phantom family, Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe ‘Nighthawk’, does not run behind its predecessors in terms of unmatched exclusivity and excellence. Now, the first of nine ‘Nighthawks’ arrive in Phoenix, Arizona to be displayed in front of millions of Americans during the festivities surrounding Super Bowl XLIX.

Phantom Drophead Coupe Nighthawk’s designers have used ground-breaking technology and materials in order to make sure that the incredible luxury vehicle will climb the top and stay there as long as possible. The outstanding creativity of the team of professionals is obvious in every line and part of the Rolls-Royce Nighthawk. In order to maximize the modern and aerodynamic “aura” of the automobile, there is a rich incorporation of carbon fiber material throughout the Hotspur Red and Black leather interior. Additionally, the dashboard panels and the panels on the signature coach door have been adorned with carbon fiber integrations too.

Not betraying the rest of the Rolls-Royce motor cars, ‘Nighthawk’ is equipped with a world-class V12 engine which generates screaming performance. Thus, the maximum power output is that of 453 HP (338 kW) with 719 Nm (531 lb-ft) of maximum torque.

Source: Rolls-Royce

February 4, 2015

The New Ford Focus RS Has the Mustang’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost Engine

After the huge leak this morning, Ford finally revealed the long-anticipated third-generation Focus RS. The car is said to offer undoubted fun-to-drive experience, advanced technologies, class-leading cornering speed and impressive performance.

2016 Ford Focus RS takes its power from the Mustang’s four-cylinder 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged gasoline engine. Here this power unit boosts 320 PS (235 kW). Exact torque figures haven’t been announced yet but Ford shared that they had to upgrade the six-speed manual gearbox so that it could deal with the extra torque.

Power is transmitted to Ford Performance All-Wheel-Drive system with Dynamic Torque Vectoring. This promises to produce “a new level of handling capability and driver enjoyment, combining outstanding traction and grip with unmatched agility and cornering speed.”

Taking into consideration the exterior, the new Focus RS demonstrates high-performance design which is dramatic and more muscular. The car’s powerful look is reinforced by a bold upper trapezoidal grille which stays above the deep front splitter, lower wings and large outboard openings on each side of the car, distinctive rear roof spoiler, body-colored side panels with RS logo and a large diffuser at the rear which optimizes air flow from under the vehicle to reduce drag. There are four exterior colors: Nitrous Blue, Stealth Grey, Absolute Black and Frozen White.

19-inch alloy wheels wrapped around in 235/35 R19 tires provided by Michelin are components which accentuate the appearance of the hatch too. They include a high-performance lightweight forged design finished in low-gloss black as well.

Stepping inside the cabin we are introduced into an environment which is simpler but more intuitive. Some of the upgrades for the new Focus include Recaro sport seats, a 10-speaker Sony sound system and an eight-inch SYNC infotainment system. The latter can work with a rear view camera. Finally, there is a flat-bottomed steering wheel covered in leather, as well as alloy foot pedals and one-of-a-kind instrument graphics on the gear shifter.

Source: Ford

February 3, 2015

Mercedes-Benz C-class Receives DEZENT TG Dark Wheels

DEZENT announced that their new alloy wheels with two surface variants are already available. By treating Mercedes-Benz model in a really good way with the new dark alloy wheels, the company actually manages to perfectly fit the very attractive design of their creation to the nature of the sedan. Doing this, the team of experts extracts the best of the car’s character and serves it to the public eye to review the final outcome.

With an extra pinch of genius thought, craftsmanship and special geometry, the new DEZENT alloys mix a matt-black body with a polished front which successfully crafts out a metaphorical tension between different surface levels. The TG dark version has wide, dark cavities at the struts’ centre which create the illusion of existing double spokes. This black wheels appear to be very sporty and comprehensive. Such characteristics turn them into the best possible “partner” for the dynamic presence of the Mercedes-Benz C-class.

Additionally, the TG and TG dark are obvious examples of a technical and well-implemented skillfulness. Both surface types are well prepared for tyre pressure monitoring sensors (TPMS). What is more, for the most common sizes (A-, B-, C-, E-Class, CLA) they are ECE-approved.

DEZENT TG dark with ECE Specifics:

Dimensions: 6.5×16, 7.5×16, 7.0×17, 7.5×17, 8.0×17, 7.5×18 and 8.5×18 inch
Construction: cast, single-piece, 5 holes
Finish: matt black, polished front
ECE: Mercedes A-, B-, C-, E-Class and CLA
Load: up to zu 790 kg
TPMS: fit for TPMS, 100 % compatible with ALCAR T-ProSensor
Guarantee: 3 years

Source: DEZENT

February 3, 2015

Ferrari 488 GTB Promises Extreme Driving Thrills

Attention everybody! Meet Ferrari’s newest superbeast dubbed 488 GTB! With this model, the automaker “opens a new chapter in its 8-cylinder history,” forty years after the introduction of its first ever mid-rear-engined V8 vehicle.

In terms of power, 2015 Ferrari 488 GTB is equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.9-litre (3902cc) engine that boast around with 660 bhp at 8000 rpm and 560 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. When we compare it to the normally aspirated 4.5-litre V8 used in the 458 Italia (562 bhp at 9000 rpm with 398 lb-ft at 6000 rpm of torque) and 458 Speciale (597 bhp at 9000 rpm and, again, 398 lb-ft at 6000 rpm), the power unit used in the new supercar seems to be significantly more powerful.

The 0-62 mph run is covered in 3.0 seconds while the 0-124 mph sprint takes 8.3 seconds. Its top speed is expected to be more than 205 mph. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a revised seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It arrives with a new variable torque management system which according to Ferrari “unleashes the engine’s massive torque smoothly and powerfully right across the rev range.”

Ferrari 488 GTB will conquer the automotive world not only with excellent performance and dynamics but with a top-class style too. There is a distinctive large air intake scallop reminds us of the original 308 GTB. In this application, though, it has been divided into two parts by a splitter. Furthermore, the wider front spoiler has a double profile which enhances the thermal efficiency of the radiators at the sides. Finally, the exterior changes are also noticeable in the redesigned LED taillights.

Inside the cabin, the new 488 GTB features new satellite control clusters, angled air vents and an instrument panel with minor tweaks. Additionally, the interior is highlighted by a number of classic Ferrari styling components like the obvious separation between the dashboard and tunnel, the multifunctional steering wheel, the control switch bridge and wraparound seats.

Officially, the car will debut during Geneva Motor Show next month.

Source: Ferrari

February 3, 2015

Author: Katya Mikova