Lidia Todorova – Page 106 – Automobiles Review

Jeep Shows the Meaning of “X”-Factor with new Wrangler Special Series

Looking for the X factor, but you can’t really sing? Well, the 2015 Jeep Wrangler X is probably just for you for it is dedicated for those who always strive to be unique. The new and exclusive personalised version is a time-honoured synonym of off-road motoring. The Wrangler “X” is a special series version, equipped with exclusive style features and specific equipment packages. They serve to “multiply” model’s personality, thus targeting new customer groups.

As you can see the vehicle features bold and distinctive interpretations, which were designed to highlight the values of adventure, authenticity, freedom and passion. The model is based on Sahara version, but adds unique exterior styling with seven slot body-colour front grille fitted with black high-gloss inserts.

Other special characteristics of the Wrangler feature dome hood with dual air vents, huge 18″ Gloss Black wheels and Mopar design black filler door. And for those who prefer the open-top experience, Jeep has prepared the exclusive Freedom Top – a removable body-colour 3-piece hardtop.

Inside, the owner of this unique version of the Jeep will enjoy the black leather trimmed heated seats with sports fabric inserts and light slate grey accent stitching as well as polished ceramic white inserts on the passenger grab handle and air vent surrounds on the dashboard and console. The comfort for everyone inside is further strengthened via the automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with built-in controls, heated front seats, special Mopar mats and the 6.5″ touchscreen that includes navigation.

Four elegant liveries will adorn the model: Bright White, Black, Firecracker Red and Baja Yellow. Wrangler “X” series will be offered in two- or four-door version with two engine options. The first one is the 2.8 litre turbodiesel which produces 200 hp (147 kW) with 460 Nm (339 lb-ft) of torque and the 3.6 litre Pentastar V6 petrol engine rated at 284 hp (209 kW) and 347 Nm of torque (256 lb-ft). Both are coupled with five-speed automatic transmission.

Source: Jeep

January 29, 2015

Infiniti Q70S is Here!

2015 Infiniti Q70S is here and is part of the new premium saloon range. Infiniti Q70 range made its debut at the Paris Motor Show last October, showing its upgraded skin and ride comfort. The more chiselled look is due to the new front and rear bumper sections that now feature seductive shape and bring the design of the car closer to the Q50 family look. The headlights keep the distinctive Infiniti design but, for all models in the range they are full LED, like the rear lights.

The line-up is of course upgraded starts with a new Q70 2.2d model, which is driven by a four-cylinder diesel engine. This powertrain is developed as part of Infiniti’s cooperation with Daimler. It is coupled with a standard seven-speed automatic transmission that has available paddleshift. What is so special about this unit is that it emits only 129g/km of CO2, but at the same time it is capable of producing 170 hp (125 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.

On the other hand, those who will go for the Q70 Premium 2.2d will receive standard full LED headlights, chromed accents on the front grille, a rear-view camera, front and rear parking sensors. They will also get Connectiviti+ navigation, 18-inch wheels and leather seats with ventilation at no cost. Next, the new ‘Sport’ trim is equipped with new front bumper, ugraded brakes and 20-inch wheels.

Some of the available features in the range include Infiniti’s Dynamic Safety Shield that adds intelligent cruise control, lane departure prevention and blind-spot intervention, Bose Premium Surround Sound with 16 speakers and Around-View Monitor with Moving Object Detection and Forest air-conditioning.

Premium Tech and Sport Tech models also come with the option of 3.7-litre V6 petrol power, while the flagship model is driven by the Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid powertrain. In fact, Q70 Hybrid offers unmatchable performance. It is capable of reaching the 100 km/h in just 5.3s.

Infiniti Q70	2.2d	3.5h	3.7
Configuration	In-line 4	V6	V6
Displacement	2143cc	3498cc	3696cc
Compression ratio	16.2:1	10.6 : 1	11 : 1
Bore x stroke	83x99mm	81.4×95.5mm	86.0 x 95.5mm
Power	170PS	364PS	320PS
Torque	400Nm (1600-2800rpm)	546Nm	360Nm (5200rpm)

Source: Infiniti

January 29, 2015

Lotus Exige S Automatic Faster Than the Manual Model?

Lotus Exige S Automatic is here and despite our previous concerns it will surely deliver pure and extreme driving. The convenience of an automatic has been specifically tailored to the sporty characteristics of the model. Lotus claims that via both automatic and paddle shift the car is capable of an even more focused driving experience. The control panel is integrated into the centre console of the cockpit and features four buttons: Park, Reverse, Neutral and Drive. The forged aluminium, manual-shift paddles are positioned behind the steering wheel cross-spokes.

In fact, the upshifts take only 240 milliseconds, while the downshifts are rapid and are accompanied by a throttle-blip when one drives in the Sport mode. In the same mode throttle response is sharpened and in combination with the Lotus Dynamic Performance Management (DPM) it increases the traction slip thresholds, which of course allows the person behind the wheel get even more control on the vehicle.

The same system also opens the engine exhaust bypass valve at mid-to-high engine speeds. Lotus has also ensured that there is an optional pack, which reduces additionally the intervention of the DPM. It is called Optional Race Pack and includes Race mode.

All of this is further strengthened by the 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, which produces the stunning 345 hp (258 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of optimum torque. If you wonder about the acceleration figures – they are detailed below. Just to mention, the Exige S Automatic reaches 100 km/h in only 3.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 162 mph (261 km/h). And believe it or not this is 0.1 seconds quicker than the manual Exige S!

The CO2 emissions are rated at 222g/km while the combined fuel consumption number stands at 29.4mpg. The automatic transmission is offered on both Exige S and Exige S Roadster models.

Performance figures:

Consumption and emissions:

0-60mph – 3.8 s
0-100kph – 3.9 s
0-100mph (0-160kph) – 9.2 s
Max speed – 162mph; 261kph
Power – 345 hp (258 kW)
Power to Weight – 292 hp/tonne (218 kW/tonne)
Torque – 295 lbft; 400 Nm
Kerb weight – 1182 kg

Urban – 20.9mpg (13.6 litres / 100km)
Extra Urban – 39.2mpg (7.2 litres / 100 km
Combined: (official combined) -29.4mpg (9.6 litres / 100 km)
CO2 – 222g/km (manual Exige S – 235 g/km)

Source: Lotus

January 29, 2015

Cool Animation Shows Why 2016 Nissan TITAN XD Has So Much Torque [VIDEO]

If you think that Nissan’s secret weapon at the North American International Auto Show was only the 2016 Nissan TITAN XD then you won’t be entirely right. The company actually premiered not only the full-size pickup, but also the new Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel engine. Nissan has just released a short film in which it literally shows-off with the unique features of the engine. The video is a detailed animation, displaying what the unit consists of and how it actually works.

A Cummins M²™ Two-Stage Turbocharger, which is featured in the engine, is configured to work effortlessly at both low and high engine speeds. The series sequential turbocharging system uses two differently sized turbochargers and effectively delivers a small turbocharger for low air flow requirements and a large turbo for high air flow.

The small one offers the benefit of better transient response, because of low inertia. On the other hand, the large turbo maintains power at higher engine speeds. This also contributes to elimination of the turbo lag, meaning that it provides a continuous delivery of peak torque through the RPM range.

And if you wonder about the control of the air flow between the two turbochargers, well, it is possible due to the new M² system. It works by utilizing a patented rotary valve to open ports that perform the bypass or waste-gate functionality and provide exhaust after-treatment thermal management.

And if you ask me: this is the twin-turbo of the 21st century and I’ll definitely take one.

httpv://youtu.be/Mlg6fZcLrF8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

January 29, 2015

O.CT Tuning Updates Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C7 to 630HP

O.CT Tuning has been focusing recently on the performance optimization of a Chevrolet Stingray and a Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. The tuners are specialists in software optimization via the OBD-II interface and they have shown how one can create magic with it. Of course, the case of these two vehicles is no different. They have been individually finely tuned thus delivering maximum performance. The aftermarket power boost for the Corvette is also a result of the joint work of O.CT and Edelbrock. The latter company has provided the Chevy with additional intercooler system for the additional horsepower.

The production top-less Stingray is powered by supercharged LT V8 6.2-liter engine, which (unchanged) delivers more than enough amount of power: 455 hp (339 kW) and 460 lb-ft (624 Nm) of maximum. What is more, it can be ordered with an optional performance exhaust system pushing the output to 460 hp (343 kW) and 465 lb-ft (630 Nm).

Stock’s top of the range version, Z06 can show even more: it generates 650 hp (448 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft). But if you don’t want to pay for the range topping model, you can just get the power update offered by O.CT Tuning. The specialists have endowed the Chevy with 630 hp (463 kW) and 810 Nm (598 lb-ft) of torque.

The same thing happened to the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 6.4. Its production output was 468 hp (344 kW) and 624 Nm (460 lb-ft) and after the ECU remapping, compressor kit and upgrades to the intercooler, it have grown to 564 hp (414 kW) HP /735 Nm (542 lb-ft). Optionally, there is a stainless steel exhaust systems with valve control, which can be connected both cars by pressing a button. More options are the trolleys and wheels up to dimension of 22 inches.

Source: O.CT Tuning

January 21, 2015

Mysterious Toyota RND Concept to Debut Next Week

Do you know what will happen next week? We just received the news that Toyota will reveal to the world a mysterious new model called RND Concept. Along with the announcement the company also released the first teaser image and some details. What we know so far that the car will debut in the United Kingdom on 26^th January, instead of at international motor show. The picture does not say much either, but it hints at how the design of RND will mark a radical shift in company’s direction.

Toyota said that the exterior appearance of the car will take the “fun-to-drive” qualities of the cars to a higher level. Although the car will be presented as a concept, it is in a completely production-ready form.

And if we can to trust the official data, the Japanese brand also disclosed that the car is ready for fast-track development and that it will change the face of motoring. Manufacturing and product supply have been secured already, while the on-the-road pricing has been fixed at a level that will make the RND Concept accessible to many people.

Toyota sounds pretty confident that the design of the RND Concept will impact other car ranges. It has the potential to transform the look of every vehicle on the road and to make a valuable contribution to the world we live in.

Source: Toyota

January 21, 2015

Jaguar’s Exclusive New Model is Dubbed XF R-Sport Black

Jaguar XF has been extended with the brand new trim level dubbed R-Sport Black. In addition, Jaguar will not disappoint customers because there are a lot of improvements featured in the already known trim packages. All models in the XF saloon and Sportbrake range get the Winter Comfort Pack and Parking Pack as standard, which means nothing else but added comfort of heated seats and windscreen plus front parking sensors and a rear camera. The Portfolio, Diesel S Portfolio, XFR and XFR-S trims benefit from Blind Spot Monitor as standard and some of the models also get updated alloys.

The specifications changes in the Luxury trim level include Gloss Dark Oak veneer and 18” Manra wheels. Next to the same veneer, the R-Sport version gets as a standard the 380w Meridian Audio system. They will be running on 19” Grey Aquila wheels.

The XF R-Sport Black can show-off with wide 20” Black Kalimnos alloys and a brand new 770w Meridian Surround Sound system. This model is powered by the 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine, which produces 200 hp (147 kW).

Inside, the new trim model benefits from full bond-grain leather upholstery and 18way Sports seats with memory function. Customers can chose from five no-cost paint colours, including the Kyanite Blue (which is limited to just 100 units), Italian Racing Red, Glacier White, Ultimate Black and Stratus Grey.

The luxurious Portfolio spec has added Parking Pack, Blind Spot Monitor, 380w Meridian system and 19” Artura wheels as standard equipment. There is an options list which includes 20” Hydra and Silver Draco alloys. On the other hand, the Diesel S Portfolio benefits from Suedecloth headliner, metallic paint and the 770w Meridian Surround Sound system, full Parking Aid Pack and Blind Spot Monitor.

At the top of the range are the XFR and XFR-S trims, which come as a standard with Rear View Camera and Blind Spot Monitor. The XFR also adds stainless steel pedals, Speed Pack and Red Brake Calipers.

2015 Jaguar XF Engine Range and Body Style:

Trim level	Engine	Body style
XF Luxury	2.2 i4 163PS	Saloon
	2.2 i4 200PS	Saloon
	2.2 i4 163PS	Sportbrake
	2.2 i4 200PS	Sportbrake
XF R-Sport	2.2 i4 163PS	Saloon
	2.2 i4 200PS	Saloon
	2.2 i4 163PS	Sportbrake
	2.2 i4 200PS	Sportbrake
XF R-Sport Black	2.2 i4 200PS	Saloon
XF R-Sport Black	2.2 i4 200PS	Sportbrake
XF Portfolio	2.2 i4 163PS	Saloon
	2.2 i4 200PS	Saloon
	2.2 i4 163PS	Sportbrake
	2.2 i4 200PS	Sportbrake
XF Diesel S Portfolio	3.0 V6 275PS	Saloon
XF Diesel S Portfolio	3.0 V6 275PS	Sportbrake
XFR	5.0 V8 510PS	Saloon
XFR-S	5.0 V8 550PS	Saloon
XFR-S	5.0 V8 550PS	Sportbrake

Source: Jaguar

January 21, 2015

Mitsubishi Introduces Outlander GX5h and GXhs PHEV Models

The most popular SUV in Mitsubishi’s range is undeniably the Outlander. This fact probably stimulates the company to make various versions of it and expand its range. There are two new additions to the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle: the GX5h and GX5hs. Externally the models have some new tweaks that need to be mentioned. These include full length side steps that allow ease of access as well as new rear spoiler. At the front we still see the LED fog lamps and DRLs, which come with chrome surrounds.

The GX5h and GX5hs vehicles will be available in all five Outlander PHEV colours, including Atlantic Grey Metallic, Glacier Blue Metallic, White Pearl Pearlescent, Frost White Solid and Amethyst Black Pearlescent.

The models offer sumptuous interior and add spaciousness. For instance, the Nappa leather seats have been hand crafted and deliver unmatched comfortability. In addition, the front and the rear seats have been all heated. As a standard specification customers will also get in the interior low level mood lighting, optimized sound system with vehicle’s interior acoustics as well as multiple USB charging ports.

To be more precise, the audio system comprise of seven speaker 420W premium Alpine Hi-Fi system. It has silk dome tweeters that deliver exact and smooth highs. In addition, there are also powerful 16.5cm midrange drivers and 20cm subwoofers for deep lows.

As a PHEV vehicle, these Outlanders have exceptional environmental and economy characteristics. They have Co2 emissions of only 44g/km and combined fuel consumption of 148mpg.

Source: Mitsubishi

January 21, 2015

Subaru Outback Has ‘Second Pair of Eyes’ for the Driver

There are exactly six model versions offered for the new 2015 Subaro Outback. Each pf them can be equipped with either of one engines coupled with manual or Lineartronic transmission. The fifth-generation model also gets new exterior design tweaks and technologies which care about occupants’ safety. In terms of appearance the new model looks a bit more rugged. At the front the bumper includes an integrated hexagonal grille and hawk-eye headlights.

The interior received the significant changes mainly through the use of new materials of higher quality. The cabin has also been made more spacious and comfortable and now includes more standard infotainment and sat nav systems.

Speaking of the “internals” of the vehicle, the engine range consists of two units. The first one is the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel, which generates 150 hp (110 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. The other one is the naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre petrol unit that has power and torque outputs of 165 hp (121 kW) and 235 Nm (173 lb-ft) respectively.

The diesel engine can be coupled with either a six-speed manual transmission or the Lineartronic (CVT) transmission, while the petrol engines are exclusively matched with Lineartronic. Trim levels are two – SE and SE Premium, and when combined with one of the engines and transmission options, the total model variant range expands to six.

The SE models get as a standard automatic LED headlamps and headlamp washers, cruise control, Active Torque Vectoring, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, electrically-adjustable driver’s seat and privacy glass. The 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system is also standard and includes satellite navigation, audio, smartphone connectivity and a rear view parking camera.

Those who have chosen SE model with petrol engine will also get emissions-reducing start-stop system and Subaru Intelligent Drive. And for those opting for SE Premium trim, they will get the additional sunroof, keyless entry and push-button start, 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats and a powered rear tailgate.

Safety systems are now enhanced with the addition of the EyeSight safety assist. This is literally a ‘second pair of eyes’ for the driver. This technology is there to help drivers prevent collisions. It employs two colour camera technology to monitor the road and traffic ahead for potential hazards, and comes as a standard.

2015 Subaru Outback is scheduled to go on sale in the UK from 1^st of April with a starting price of £27,995.

Source: Subaru

January 21, 2015

Jaguar’s Bike Sense Technology Saves Cyclists from Potential Accidents [VIDEO]

Jaguar Land Rover just released a video showing that it is currently developing a range of new technologies. They will utilize colours, sounds and touch inside the car in order to alert drivers in cases of potential hazards. The specific thing about these technologies is that they have been created to prevent accidents only involving bicycles and motorbikes. To go into details, the sensors on the car detect when another road user is approaching. In fact, they can even identify it as bicycle or motorbike. When this happens, the Bike Sense will alert the driver via several means.

The technology does not uses only sound or warning icon, but lights and sounds that the driver will instinctively associate with the potential danger. In addition, the audio system will help the driver understand where the bike is in relation to their car. It will make a sound as if a bicycle bell or motorbike horn is coming through the speaker nearest the bike.

There is even more to this. When a motorbike approaches up the road behind the car, for example, after the Bike Sense have detected it, the top of the car seat will extend to ‘tap’ the driver on the left or right shoulder. Except for that it sounds pretty strange and even scary; the idea is that the driver will instinctively look over that shoulder to identify the potential hazard.

There is a scenario, when a cyclist gets closer to the car. What happens next is that a matrix of LED lights on the window sills, dashboard and windscreen pillars will glow amber and then red as the bike approaches. In addition, the exact movement of these lights across the surfaces will also show the direction the bike is taking.

Bike Sense is also clever enough to know that there are potential hazards that the driver cannot see. For instance, is pedestrian or cyclist is crossing the road, and for some reason the person behind the steering wheel can’t see them, the sensors will detect this and draw the driver’s attention with the help of visual an audible signals. And if for some reason the driver ignores the warnings, then the technology will make the accelerator pedal vibrate or feel stiff.

At last, Bike Sense also helps prevent vehicle doors being opened into the path of bikes. In these cases it would warn all passengers of an approaching vehicle through sound and light. If anyone continues with the opening of the door, the door handle will light up, vibrate and buzz.

Source: Jaguar

January 20, 2015

Facelifted Hyundai Veloster Turbo Launched in South Korea

Hyundai has released an updated version of its Veloster Turbo model. The car will be seen only in South Korea and it is specifically intended for this market. The refreshed Veloster aims to catch the attention of younger customers, those who are in their twenties and thirties. The new edition of the vehicle has already been launched and on sale in the country, since 16^th of January.

2015 Hyundai Veloster Turbo Facelift received some styling upgrades that need to be addressed. The exterior styling improvements included feature silver trim on the front grille which refreshes the front fascia as well as blackish allows in new multispoke design.

The headlight graphics has been also updated as well as the fog lights. Hyundai has continued with the changes inside. The cabin now features new sports seats that will be offered in three different color finishes.

More importantly, the Veloster has been given world’s first engine sound equalizer. It allows drivers to adjust the level of the sound of the powertrain. There are six different sounds offered.The car is driven by the 1.6-liter T-GDi turbo gasoline engine, which produces 204 hp (150 kW). The unit is coupled with a seven-speed double clutch transmission (DCT).

Hyundai will offer the Veloster Turbo Facelift in three trim versions. The starting price of the Unique trim is 19.95 million won which equals $18,550 USD, 20.95 million won or $19,480 USD) for the PYL and 21.55 million won ($20,040 USD) for the PYL DCT trim level.

Source: Hyundai via thekoreancarblog

January 20, 2015

New Livery for Citroen DS3 WRC and Start of the 2015 Season

The DS model is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. To commemorate this, Citroen has made a new livery for its WRC car. It features exclusive decals and will compete in this month’s Rallye Automobile Monte-Carlo. The white, red and gold livery has been simplified and includes an eye-catching “60” spread across the rear wings. Sébastien Loeb and Daniel Elena are returning to action, contesting the opening round of the 2015 World Rally Championship season. They are winners of nine world titles and 78 rallies.

The start of the championship will also see the arrival of two new partners for the team. They are also featured on the livery. Official WRC timekeeper since 2013 is Certina. It is included on DS3’s bodywork. In addition, Sheikh Khalid Al Qassimi, Kris Meeke and Mads Østberg will also wear watches made by the famous Swiss brand.

Furthermore, the automotive equipment manufacturer Sparco is now the official Citroën Racing supplier. It will cover all of the series in which the brand is competing. This includes WRC, WTCC and customer racing.

To the three DS 3 WRCs entered in the championship have been made some significant improvements too. They range from engine and suspension to aerodynamics and gearbox. For instance, Citroen have focused on the powerplant so that it delivers more power and torque, whilst also improving reliability.

What is more, there s a reintroduction of the steering wheel-mounted paddles for the gear changes. In terms of aerodynamics, the improvements include a new spoiler and a new front end as well as use of lighter parts.At last, the company has changed the kinematics of the rear suspension. Currently, work is ongoing and there will be another aerodynamic upgrade in the forthcoming months.

Source: Citroen

January 20, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova