Katya Mikova – Page 9 – Automobiles Review

Gemballa GTP 720: One Faster Panamera

The specialists from the tuning company Gemballa are once again setting new stunning results and standards for beefed up models based on Porsche Panamera. Now the German tuner unveiled a more powerful variant of the Gemballa GTP 700 which already accomplished a new acceleration record for the roadworthy cars by reaching 338,8 kph on the high-speed track in Nardo in southern Italy.

This time around, the even more powerful GTP 720 (720 hp / 530 kW) variant succeeded in scoring two new records during independent tests on a closed-off airport. Firstly, when Gemballa Porsche Panamera GTP 720 speeded up from 0 to 100 kph it showed a final result of 3.2 seconds, which is one second faster than the score of the production car. Following this, the 200 kph run was covered in 9.7 seconds (3 seconds faster), while the acceleration from 0 to 300 kph happened in 26.4 seconds (33.6 seconds faster).

GTP 720 set a new lap record too at the Sachsenring circuit for Panamera-based cars, which now stands at 1:37.08 minutes. Not bad at all!

“This exceptional performance is not only due to the car’s horse power but also to its torque, raised by 255 Nm and available over a wide range of revs,“ says CEO Andreas Schwarz and then adds; “Our customers want our engines and cars to be high-performance products, but the cars still have to remain roadworthy, usable on a daily basis. This requires a huge amount of development work. And this has indeed been our input over the past few years.”

Source: GEMBALLA

January 29, 2015

Volkswagen Unveils 2015 Golf GTD Variant

The German automobile manufacturer Volkswagen has taken the wraps off the new Gran Turismo Diesel model which is another member added to its growing Golf family.

Power for the Golf wagon is provided by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine which delivers 184 HP (135 kW) at 3,500 rpm and 380 Nm of maximum torque (280 lb-ft) between 1,750 and 3,250 rpm. These figures help the car accelerate from standstill to 60 mph (0-100 km/h) in just 7.9 seconds. There are no specific details regarding the top speed but it could be lower than that of the GTD hatchback which reaches 143 mph (230 km/h). Combined fuel consumption is rated at 4.4 liters / 100 km (53.4 mpg US or 64 mpg UK).

Visually, 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTD has several distinctive components. Precisely, the car’s aggressive appearance is highlighted by its GTD front and rear bumpers, black roof nails, tinted bi-xenon headlights, honeycomb radiator grille and smoked taillights. The new Volkswagen Golf GTD is further characterized by a 15 mm lower suspension and chrome tips for the exhaust which come as standard. A finishing touch add the 17-inch Curitiba alloy wheels available in 18-inch Nogaro as an option as well.

On the inside, the Golf GTD has sports seats with “Clark” cloth upholstery, black headliner, stainless steel pedal caps, pillar trims and illuminated door sills. “Checkered Black” decorative inserts and panels also adorn the interior. Golf-ball shaped gear knob and a multi-function lather steering are part of the package too.

Orders for the model are already available in Germany, with a starting price of €31,975 ($36,124).

Source: Volkswagen

January 29, 2015

The all new Ford GT Looks and sounds amazing

2016 sees the 50^th Anniversary of Fords greatest racing victory, the first of four races in the 24 hours of Le Mans.

With that said Ford are set to introduce the all new Ford GT for the special year.

In the past F1 cars have used a V8 engine but not with the GT. Ford have decided to use a 600bhp, twin turbo charged V6 engine.

People seemed to lose interest in F1, last year, and it was highly down to cars being designed with V6 engines, they struggled to sound spectacular like other cars. We then have to ask ourselves is this one of Fords best ideas?

The GT has been a topic of conversation with car lovers everywhere and has even been showcased on Top Gear recently. The sneak look at the proto type gives an insight to the sound and the look of the vehicle.

An aerodynamic body hides a passenger cell crafted out of carbon fibre and a pair of aluminium sub frames keeps both weight and fuel economy in check.

With the seats integrated into the passenger cell, the driver cannot adjust these and must electronically adjust the steering wheel and pedals, something found in Fords competitor Ferrari.

A deployable rear spoiler and scissor mounted doors make the GT look like a very traditional super car but the vehicles fully modern instrument panel with configurable display, make it clear this is a very futuristic, digital kind of car.

It seems the number of European clients for the new GT have been underestimated by Ford. There are 20 times more car lovers interested to purchase than originally expected and this is even before the European price tag has been publicly announced.

A huge demand could mean we do not get to see the GT on the roads by 2016 and therefore should hope the speculation of 12 new performance cars from Ford are announced soon, including the new Ford Focus RS more information is available in this article.

Latest indications from Ford say the all new RS will have a turbocharged 2.3litre, four cylinder eco boost engine seen in the recently launched mustang. Dale Gillespie from JenningsFordDirect a UK based Ford specialist said “Used version of the sporty ford focus Zetec S, ST and RS have increased in demand since the announcement of the GT”.

All of these designs and speculations from Ford are building the hopes up of car enthusiasts around the globe, so we hope they can step up to the plate and deliver these vehicles for when expected.

January 29, 2015

Facelifted BMW M135i with Revised Front End

BMW has previously shared the specifics of the facelifted M135i but only now we know what to expect visually after several scan images of the car have been spotted around the web.

Just to refresh your memory, in terms of power, 2015 BMW M135i is fitted with a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder petrol engine that is now Euro 6 compliant. It is capable of delivering a power output of 326 HP (240 kW). Note that this is 6 HP (4 kW) more than before. The maximum torque is 450 Nm (332 lb-ft), while the estimated average fuel consumption is that of 8.0 l/100 km.

The rear-wheel drive variant accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (100km/h) in 5.1 seconds when it takes advantage of a 6-speed manual. When it is opted with the imrpoved 8-speed automatic transmission, the car can complete the 0-60 mph run in 4.9 seconds.

Judging from the photos, the new BMW M135i has the same Valencia Orange color as the vehicle which was seen in Germany some time ago. The profile seems to be unchanged but the thing that differentiates the vehicle from the other 1-Series models is the altered front bumper which features bigger air intakes with new chrome trim. The revised silhouette also has redesigned headlamps, L-shaped LED taillights and modified boot hatch. Lastly, there are silver mirror caps and a new rear diffusor as well. The latter arrives in black metallic paint and has a dual exhaust system.

Source: Bimmertoday

January 29, 2015

Magical Introduction of Fiat 500X with Dynamo [VIDEO]

Before the official launch of the new Fiat 500X, the automaker teamed up with the internationally well-known British magician Dynamo who spent three years to prepare an astonishing show revealing the crossover.

The incredible live performance took place at Copper Box Arena, situated in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford in front of 1,000 invited guests. Among the people who attended the event were many journalists, bloggers and celebrities from the fashion world, as well as personalities from the music and entertainment industry, like the singer MIA,Kasabian’s bassist Chris Edwards and the star TV Nancy Dell’Olio. Nevertheless, the real stars were the vehicle in question and the skillful magician.

Quoting Fiat, “Dynamo’s latest performance is a unique blend of theater, illusion and dance inspired choreography as the magician conjures up a mysterious energy (The power of X) live on stage.” This never-before seen interplay of technology and magic culminated when the man presented a 3-dimensional blueprint of the all-new Fiat 500X and then all of a sudden brings it to life leaving the audience dumbfounded and stunned.

Even though the London event marked the end of “The Power of X” tour, this is just the beginning of a new era for Fiat because the exclusiveness of its car offers a significant multidisciplinary which appeals to a large scope of customers. Introducing the new Fiat model in 74 European cities and bringing it to 602 premieres at Fiat dealerships across the continent, “The Power of X” joins up the art of Dynamo and the characteristics of the new 500X crossover.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sz2C7_nU1jw

Source: Fiat

January 29, 2015

McLaren 675LT with a Devilish 666 HP [VIDEO]

Set to make its premiere in Geneva, the newest McLaren product has already received its name and it is McLaren 675LT. The car inherits the spirit and ethos of its iconic predecessor “Longtail’ but will combine it with blistering aerodynamics, optimized performance as well as increased downforce and reduced weight.

This modern interpretation of the 1997 McLaren F1 GTR Longtail promises to be the “lightest, the quickest, and the purest version of the range.” The automaker has made it clear that the model will be equipped with a revised twin-turbo V8 3.8-liter engine which is capable of producing the jaw-dropping 666 HP (496 kW). In consequence, thanks to these figures, the new McLaren model is proclaimed to be the most powerful one in the Super Series.

Still, the extra oomph won’t be the only thing that defines the devilish character of the 675LT. It also promises to arrive with a reworked body which can be distinguished by the special longtail treatment which is a tribute to the legendary F1 GTR Long Tail. No other details have been released so far but we were presented with a teaser video as a compromise. Nevertheless, it is just as scarce as everything else really. Spinning wheels and classic music in the background can hardly calm down the beating hearts of the people who are expecting to see the final product.

McLaren 675LT will be shown along with the exciting 650S and the Asia-only 625C models during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show in March.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwkFqbGTNHY&feature=youtu.be

Source: McLaren via Youtube

January 29, 2015

Honda Gives a Sneak Preview of the Phenomenal NSX

This year Honda has set a goal to exhibit as many striking models as possible at 2015 Gevena Motor Show on its stand in March. Among the flagship performance vehicles the automaker will present its Honda Civic Type R and the new Honda NSX.

Philip Crossman, managing director of Honda UK, said: “There’s no denying the past six or seven years have been tough for the Honda brand but with the fruits of a massive R&D investment now coming to the fore, 2015 is our year and the sleeping giant is awakening. Geneva is our spring board to explode the Honda brand back to where we belong, with these outstanding new products, along with our F1 partnership, making us a desirable proposition once more.”

So Geneva is going to enjoy the reveal of the British-built Honda Civic Type R production car which comes with thrilling dynamics and performance. The car is powered by a new 2.0 litre VTEC Turbo engine and has an aggressive function-led vision. Thanks to the innovative chassis technologies, the Civic Type R promises an unforgettable driving experience.

As mentioned before, 2015 Honda NSX will be there to dazzle those who decide to attend the event. The hybrid supercar will make its European debut in Switzerland.

The all-new Jazz and HR-V will be unveiled too along with the FCV Concept fuel cell vehicle which will be the first showing in Europe. On top of this, Honda fans will be able to see the 2015 McLaren-Honda F1 racer too, ahead of its premiere at the season opener in Melbourne, Australia on 15 March.

Source: Honda

January 28, 2015

Larte Design Mercedes-Benz GL Black Crystal with Swarovski Accents

Larte Design drove its Mercedes-Benz GL Black Crystal to Zollverein right from the Essen Motor Show. There, the tuner presented the recently-developed kit in its white splendor in front of German public for the very first time.

This full-size SUV receives such name because of the two dark crystals adorning the martial front bumper. In order to become even more exclusive, the white Mercedes-Benz GL Black Crystal arrives with extra Swarovski crystals that have the shape of skulls. With such additions, this Mercedes-Benz GL model turns into something really unique in the car tuning sector. After all, not every day you can see a vehicle that gets complimentary sparkles for further astonishment.

In order to improve the diesel engine, Larte Design has worked together with the professionals at Wetterauer. The result of their collaboration is pretty remarkable. After the refinements, the V6 diesel engine is able to pump out 290 HP (213 kW) and a maximum torque of 690 Nm (510 lb-ft), while the production version of the power unit delivers 258 HP (190 kW) and 620 Nm (458 lb-ft). Did you spot the differences?

With a completely re-designed front bumper that has a “crystalline” ornamentation and an aggressive geometry featuring prongs, edges, boomerang-formed components and air inlets, the car manages to make a very bold and striking impression. The attractive silhouette of the SUV is complimented by the matt-black carbon-lined tailpipes and the LED daytime running lights which are also very sporty.

Lastly, Larte Design Mercedes-Benz GL Black Crystal moves on forged, dark XXL 11 x 22-inch alloy wheels with angular double spokes.

Source: Larte Design

January 28, 2015

Alpine Vision Gran Turismo Revealed

It is a good day for Gran Turismo fans because Renault has finally revealed its Alpine Vision Gran Turismo concept and is expected to appear in the game very soon.

Embodying the brand’s unique DNA and spirit, the racing car is designed in a manner which promises a dynamic, furious and remarkable driving experience in the virtual world of the game. With splendid characteristics, 2015 Alpine Vision Gran Turismo becomes the ultimate driving simulator that a person can dream of.

The automaker states that; “The designers and engineers involved in this project were tasked with creating a car that expresses the spirit of our brand. Alpine’s genes are immediately visible in its styling, while its performance won’t disappoint either when players get behind the wheel, or their DualShock®PlayStation controller. They will find the same agility that helped to forge the legend of the original cars produced by Alpine founder Jean Rédélé”

Renault Alpine Vision Gran Turismo is powered by a V8 4.5-liter petrol engine that is capable of delivering 450 HP (331 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 580 Nm (428 lb-ft) at 2,000 rpm and is set to a seven-speed sequential gearbox. Its top speed is 320 km/h (199 mph).

The virtual race car will be available for the Gran Turismo 6 for PlayStation 3 in March 2015. What is more, enthusiasts can see the model during the Festival Automobile International in Paris. Following this, the car will also be shown at the 2015 Retromobile Show at the Porte de Versailles, again in Paris from 4th of February to 8th of February.

Source: Alpine

January 28, 2015

Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Scares with Jurassic Park Makeover

Earlier this month, Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was confirmed to have received a leading role in the new Jurassic Park film titled Jurassic World. We are presented now with some renderings from the artist Yasid Design who has created some digital images of the possible look of the car.

With such wild jungle-inspired makeover, the GLE 450 AMG Coupe seems to be ready to dive into the fighting-against-dinosaurs-world. The paintwork makes the car seem as scary as one of those creatures. Depicted with a character of a fighter, boosted aggression and a final level of determination, this monster on four wheels fumes with poisonous danger.

The Jurassic Park theme of the paint includes yellow, green and red livery colors which are borrowed from the Ford Explored in the first Jurassic movie back in 1993. Other beefed up components include enhanced steel slats which shield the windows, large roll bars and an extra lower body cladding. From what we can see, in order to give the vehicle ultimate visibility at night, there are additional lights provided on the roof and the mirror caps too.

The most notable feature of this monstrous Jurassic Park Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe is the harpoon gun placed on the top. Finally, the roughness of the package is completed by rugged off-road tires with original ML wheels.

Just to remind you, the regular Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe premiered earlier this month, at the 2015 North American International Auto Show. Under its hood there is a 3.0 liter V6 engine that generates 362 HP (270 kW) and 520 Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque. Power is sent to the all-wheel drive via 9-speed automatic transmission.

Source: carwow

January 28, 2015

Mercedes-AMG GT S in a Twisted Fable-like Commercial [VIDEO]

Mercedes can be considered a king when it comes to craftsmanship and attention-grabbing products. Being impatient until April, 2015 when the US market launch of the new Mercedes-AMG GT S is going to take place, the automaker “took hold” of another opportunity to brag about the splendid car.

This time the creativity and originality of Mercedes-AMG can be observed in a 60-second commercial, titled “Fable” which will air during this weekend’s Super Bowl. The spot is somewhat whimsical, strange, interesting and with a spin on the classic tale about the tortoise and the hare. The short video clip starts in a forest full of animals who are waiting for the race to begin. It all seems normal and as you would expect it until some of them decide to catch up with modernity and take a selfie. Another plot twist includes a game of poker and stealing of the new GT S by the tortoise. The peak of the commercial is when we hear the tortoise say “WHO’S YOUR TURTLE!?!” while the car is flying through the air. Oh, yeah, and there is the hare’s girlfriend peeking out from behind the tortoise.

Set to hit the markets very soon, the automotive monster by Mercedes is fitted with a powerful twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter V-8 engine matched to a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission that has a transaxle design. 2016 Mercedes-AMG GT S takes advantage of 503 HP and 479 lb-ft. feet of torque. This is enough to catapult the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph (0-100 km/h) in the screaming 3.7 seconds. The new GT S has a price tag of $130,825.

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

Source: Mercedes-Benz via Youtube

January 28, 2015

Mercedes-Benz 540 K Streamliner at Retromobile

Mercedes-Benz has announced that 1938 540 K Streamliner is going to be one of the biggest attractions at Retromobile. A classic today, the car used to be a wonder in the past, exuding sufficient style and temperament.
Considered to be a distant relative of the S-Class Coupe, the Mercedes-Benz 540 K Streamliner is powered by a supercharged 5.4-liter eight-cylinder engine which provides the car with a classic roar. It is able to generate 180 PS (132 kW), allowing the magnificent coupe to reach a top speed of 185 km/h (115 mph).

Designed for high-speed and long-distance traveling, this gorgeous automobile has the quintessential look of the 1930s. The old spirit of the car manages to impress and dazzle everyone who has an eye for such retro beauties.

The 1938 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Streamliner reveals an aluminum body with some amazing curves and lines. Its imposing visage is complimented by the sleek design of the wheels, thus creating harmonious mixture of proportions and styling elements. The stunning look of the vehicle continues on the inside too.

Yet, the 540 K Streamliner won’t be the only model showcased at Retromobile Show. Mercedes will present a 1953 300 SL racing prototype as well as its 1970 C 111 concept.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 27, 2015

Author: Katya Mikova