Lidia Todorova – Page 107 – Automobiles Review

Lotus to Premiere an Exciting new Model in Geneva

No picture and scarce information is what we’ve got from Lotus about a car. The “exciting” vehicle will have its reveal at the Geneva International Motor Show in early March 2015. What we know for sure is that the product will remain true to its core pillars of lightness, performance and driving purity. In fact, these three characteristics will be embodied in a most desirable package.

Probably, there will be a teaser image soon, but until Geneva we don’t think that Lotus will spill any information. So be prepared and have some patience untill the beginning of March. Rumors say that the company will premiere a new generation of Evora. The car is to include revised styling, more in terms of engine and less weight.

The most recent Elise S Cup, which was revealed a few days ago, is already creating great response in the general public. There are headlines and comments like “…most intoxicating sports car at any price” and “…it’s about as much fun as driving gets”.

The Geneva reveal will produce even more for the new upcoming model. We are not likely to see Lotus Elise S Cup‘s engine in the new model. However, it is pretty impressive. It produces a maximum power of 217 hp (160 kW) at 6800 rpm, and 249 Nm (184 lb-ft) at 4600 rpm of torque. The top speed is limited at 140 mph (225 km/h).

Elise S Cup covers the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. And we have to ask ourselves: since the new car will show even more, is it to surpass this number? More than a month left and the mystery will be solved.

Source: Lotus

January 20, 2015

See How Honda Have Updated the 2015 CR-V

A good start in 2015 for Honda CR-V! The car got some comprehensive updates that make it even more attractive. There is a new diesel engine and nine-speed automatic gearbox that aim to deliver great fuel economy. In addition, Honda has added a new technology, which is a world-first that comes to enhance occupant safety. There is an innovative app-driven connectivity system, which is now standard. And in terms of driving fun, the CR-V got reengineered. Of course, the designers did made some minor styling changes to the exterior.

First, the CR-V is offered with a more powerful diesel engine as well as an optional nine-speed automatic transmission. Furthermore, the new 160 PS 1.6-litre i-DTEC four-cylinder diesel engine will be available with four-wheel drive. The result: outstanding performance and low CO2 emissions.

The combination of both – new engine and nine-speed gearbox, will deliver exceptional fuel economy, which you can see in details below. Just to spoil it a bit: it is one of the best power-to-consumption ratio of any engine on sale today.

Honda Connect infotainment system is the second highlight in the list with updates. It will offer convenience and connectivity while on the road. Its key characteristics include DAB / FM / AM and internet radio, Bluetooth connectivity, internet browsing, satellite navigation and rear-view parking camera.

World-first active safety feature will also be a highlight in the facelifted CR-V. In fact, the car will premiere Honda’s new Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (i-ACC) system as part of company’s commitment to ‘Safety for Everyone’. The system predicts and automatically reacts to other vehicles that are ‘cutting-in’ to the vehicle’s lane.

i-ACC does this via the use of camera and a radar to sense the position of other vehicles on the road. Combined with the enhanced suspension and optimised NVH measures, the new CR-V will definitely deliver more refined yet dynamic drive.

2015 Honda CR-V Facelift will be distributed only in Europe and is scheduled to arrive in showrooms this Spring.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

Engine

	1.6-litre (diesel)	1.6-litre (diesel)	2.0-litre i-VTEC (gasoline)
Type	4 valves per cylinder	4 valves per cylinder	4 valves per cylinder
Capacity	1597	1597	1997
Bore x stroke	76.0 x 88.0	76.0 x 88.0	81.0 x 96.9
Compression ratio	16.0	16.0	10.6
Power	160 PS at 4000 rpm	120 PS at 4000 rpm	155 PS at 6500 rpm
Torque	350 Nm at 2000 rpm	300 Nm at 2000 rpm	192 Nm at 4300 rpm

Transmission

Engine	1.6-litre i-DTEC
Automatic – speeds	9
Manual – speeds	6
Engine	1.6-litre i-DTEC
Manual – speeds	6
Engine	2.0-litre i-VTEC
Manual – speeds	6
Automatic – speeds	5

Suspension and damping

Front	MacPherson Strut
Rear	Re-Active Link Double Wishbone

Steering

Type	Rack and Pinion
Steering turns (lock to lock)	2.94
Turning circle (at wheels)	11.0 m
Turning circle (at body)	11.7 m (4WD) / 11.9 m (2WD)

Brakes

Front	Ventilated disc
Rear	Disc

Wheels and tyres

Wheel size	Tyres – Front	Tyres – Rear
x 17-inch	225	65R17
x 18-inch	225	60R18

Dimensions (mm)

Exterior	(mm)
Overall length	4,605
Overall width	2,096 (including door mirrors)
Overall height	1,685 (including antenna)
Wheelbase	2,630

Performance and fuel consumption

Engine	1.6-litre6-speed Manual 4WD	1.6-litre9-speed Automatic 4WD	1.6-litre6-speed Manual 2WD	2.0-litre6-speed Manual 2WD	2.0-litre6-speed Manual 4WD	2.0-litre5-speed Automatic 4WD
Maximum speed (km/h)	202	197	182	190	190	182
0-100 km/h (seconds)	9.6	10.0	11.2	10.2	10.2	12.3
Fuel consumption urban (l/100 km)	5.3 (17”)5.5 (18”)	5.6 (17”)6.0 (18”)	4.6 (17”)4.8 (18”)	8.9 (17”)9.3 (18”)	9.3 (17”)9.4 (18”)	10.0 (17”)10.1 (18”)
Fuel consumption extra urban (l/100 km)	4.7 (17”)4.7 (18”)	4.8 (17”)4.9 (18”)	4.2 (17”)4.4 (18”)	6.2 (17”)6.3 (18”)	6.3 (17”)6.5 (18”)	6.0 (17”)6.2 (18”)
Fuel consumption combined (l/100 km)	4.9 (17”)5.1 (18”)	5.1 (17”)5.3 (18”)	4.4 (17”)4.5 (18”)	7.2 (17”)7.4 (18”)	7.4 (17”)7.6 (18”)	7.5 (17”)7.7 (18”)
CO2 combined (g/km)	129 (17”)133 (18”)	134 (17”)139 (18”)	115 (17”)119 (18”)	168 (17”)173 (18”)	173 (17”)177 (18”)	175 (17”)179 (18”)

Source: Honda

January 20, 2015

Production McLaren P1 GTR Debuts in Geneva [VIDEO]

We had a glimpse of the interior of 2016 McLaren P1 GTR, and it is now time for the motorsport oriented company to show us little more. With the news that a production-intended P1 GTR is coming to Geneva, McLaren has also revealed pictures from the testing at global circuits in Europe and the Middle East. There is also a video showing the latest stages in the development programme of the car, which is featured below.

The launch of the bespoke Driver Programme happens ahead of the start of production car later this year. As testing continues P1 looks like one of the fastest McLarens that wears the famous ‘speed mark’.

Weight-saving measures have been significant here. Combined with the track-optimisation of the petrol-electric powertrain, the new car is set to boast a power-to-weight ratio in excess of 10 percent (when compared to the road-going model). This means more than 700 PS per tonne!

The team at McLaren did extensive work to achieve this result. Thanks to the motorsport-derived technology and expertise, the track-only model has already covered thousands of kilometres of extreme testing.

The result: the tests pushed the performance of the car to its limits! And also revealed the need to further enhance cooling and aerodynamics over the design concept previewed at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance last summer.

This dedicated development programme is continuing at the moment and will do so over the coming months. It aims to additionally tune the performance, aerodynamics, driving dynamics and handling balance. In the forthcoming weeks, new drivers will join the Driver Programme. They will test the car at some of the most iconic racing circuits.

httpv://youtu.be/4pDwmMruOtA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: McLaren

January 19, 2015

2015 Porsche 919 Hybrid Makes Track Debut in Abu Dhabi

The second generation of Porsche’s Le Mans prototype – 2015 Porsche 919 Hybrid, has completed extensive testing yesterday at the Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit. Tests are continuing till 22nd of January. As scheduled, this shows that it is time for Porsche to start the 2015 motorsport season. 919 Hybrid has already had its roll-out on company’s test track called Weissach. Since the WEC season is planned to open on April 12 in Silverstone, there will be also several performance and endurance tests conducted before this date.

The second generation model is a sophisticated evolution of the successful car, which we have seen rising in 2014. The new hybrid sports car will include the same innovative drivetrain concept. It comprises of a 2-liter V4 turbocharged petrol engine, working with an electric motor powering the front wheels, and two energy recovery systems.

The powerplant revs up to 9,000 rpm and sends the power to the rear wheels. At the same time the electric motor provides force for the front wheels. The brake energy recovery and a thermal energy recovery system are included in the exhaust. This means an 8 megajoule per lap energy recovery boost function.

The first roll-out of the new gen gar was 15th of December 15 on Weissach track. The driver behind the wheel was Marc Lieb.

Source: Porsche

January 19, 2015

Lexus Shows-Off with First Two-Tone Model

Lexus is expanding its CT 200h line-up with the Advance Plus model. It is based on the Advance grade but adds little more exquisiteness. Most importantly, this model makes history because this is the first Lexus with a two-tone paint finish. Precisely, one can choose metallic paint, or a contrasting Velvet Black roof with Fuji Red, Ultra Blue, Sonic White or Sonic Titanium body. This is also the first CT model which adopts the new Sonic Titanium finish. We’ve seen this shade on the NX 300h crossover.

CT Advance Plus will also make another first: it will be the only version available in Celestial Black. Other highlights except for the new paint finish include the F Sport roof spoiler and brand new 17-inch alloy wheels in dark silver as well as the exclusive and a sunroof. Inside, the cabin is adorned by seats in fabric and Tahara upholstery.

The optional features include front and rear parking sensors, easy keyless entry and cruise control. There are also offered heated front seats and Lexus Navigation system with Remote Dial control.

Advance Plus’s style and equipment is further strengthened by company’s quality and reliability of its hybrid system. It delivers CO2 emissions figures of 88g/km and also good fuel economy – combined cycle consumption of 78.5 mpg.

All of this is supported by the hybrid system’s ability to maximize the utilization of its electric motor. For instance, when driving in slow-moving city traffic, the car switches automatically to its EV mode.

Lexus CT 200h Advance Plus is currently on sale in the United Kingdom and has a starting price of £25,495.

Source: Lexus

January 19, 2015

Shelby Launches Shelby GT at Barrett-Jackson and Sells Shelby GT350R VIN#001 for 1 Million US Dollars!

Shelby has launched the first Shelby GT muscle car based on the popular Mustang GT. With its 627 horsepower, the car was unveiled during the weekend at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction. More importantly, the company is ready to take orders for the model with the first deliveries planned for the second quarter of this year. Every aspect of the Shelby GT is enhanced and in addition, this car includes Ford Racing Performance Parts.

For instance, one of them is the 627 hp supercharger, or take another example – the performance handling kit and half shafts. Gearing has been upgraded 3.73 gears and paired with chrome-tipped Borla exhaust. The power is transmitted onto the road via set of WELD Racing wheels shod with sticky Michelin tires.

The new performance handling kit adds to the Mustang Wilwood six piston front brakes. At the front, the car is enhanced by the addition of new hood with functional air vents and other functional aerodynamic components like a 2-piece rear diffuser. All of the exterior parts are made of carbon fiber, except or the front grilles, which were made entirely out of billet aluminum.

For those who aren’t enough 627 hp (461 kW), Shelby has created a 700+HP performance upgrade. It can be perfectly complemented by adjustable suspension and upgraded big brake kit. There are also various interior upgrades which will take care for the comfort of occupants.

The first retail production Shelby GT350R Mustang VIN#001 was auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale for $1,000,000 USD. All of the proceeds are going to JDRF – country’s leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes research.

Source: Shelby American

January 19, 2015

2016 Maybach S-Class: Soon a Fact in the U.S.

2016 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is going on sale in the United States very soon. Since the car was introduced for the first time, everyone is eagerly awaiting to hear its pricing. The Europeans got their and now it is time for the people living in the U.S. to get the opportunity of owning the luxury icon. Maybach S-Class stands atop of the Mercedes-Benz model range, because it has numerous exclusive details which highlight its “ambition” to lead. These are not only luxury-enhancing features, but also all of the technological benefits of the S-Class.

The highly-anticipated vehicle will have its market launch in April. This exceptional addition to the lineup has more than 8 inches in length when compared to the S-Class. In addition, it features a suite of intelligent safety technologies and exclusive appointments that round-out the abundant package.

As a matter of fact, Mercedes-Maybach is not just a model, but it is also a second sub-brand for Mercedes. It was created for those willing to achieve the maximum. One of the main features in these models is that they have unique interior appointments and extensive individualization options that are unparalleled.

Maybach S600 is driven by a V12 bi-turbo engine. With a displacement of 5980 cc, it produces more than 523 hp (385 kW) and a maximum torque of 829 Nm (612 lb-ft) available from 1900 rpm.

The luxury model can also show-off with the fact that it is the quietest car in the world. Its level of wind noise is very low and even surpasses levels found in the S-Class Coupe. Standard equipment includes a Driver Assistance Package with Intelligent Drive, the popular (from the ads) MAGIC BODY CONTROL, Night View Assist PLUS, a Warmth and Comfort Package with a heated windshield and Head-Up Display. Other features at no additional cost are the LED Intelligent Lighting and Burmester High-End 3D Surround Sound System, Executive Rear Seat Package, Rear Seat Entertainment System and the Air Balance Package.

2016 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has a starting price of $189,350 USD and is arriving in U.S. dealerships in April.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 19, 2015

Ines de la Fressange Paris and Citroen Create Stylish DS3 Limited Edition

Citroen continues to expand its limited edition DS3 range with the introduction of a new model called Ines de la Fressange Paris. As the company says, this car is stylish and eminently Parisian. This is the first vehicle, which Citroen shows in the New Year. This step signals that DS3 is very important model in the lineup of cars, and that customer’s individuality is one of brand’s main priorities.

D3 Ines de la Fressange Paris was co-developed by the teams at Citroen’s DS brand and Ines de la Fressange Paris. In fact, the model made its debut as a concept car at the Paris Motor Show last October, and now DS is introducing limited edition model echoing that concept model.

Just like the many other DS3 limited editions, this one features some key and unique characteristics. The first one is the Encre blue body paint, which was specifically developed for this model. In contrast to it is the Onyx black roof, giving the car a bi-tonal design statement. The big contrast however makes the rearview mirror housings, which are painted in bright red.

The unique model exudes strong identity. Inside and out, meticulous attention was paid to the tiniest details in terms of colours and materials. The car is also equipped with new Xenon Full LED headlamps with sequential indicators.

Inside, the interior was meticulously individualized with a “Rouge Ines” dashboard and special front seat headrests. Citroen did not reveal any technical details, except for the information that the car will be available with four environment-friendly engines. Citroen DS3 Cabrio Ines de la Fressange Paris limited edition model will also be available.

Source: Citroen

January 16, 2015

Volkswagen Introduces the Second Gen Polo R WRC

There is a world premiere happing right now and under the spotlights is the next generation Volkswagen Polo R WRC. The company introduced the second gen motorsport car in Autostadt, Wolfsburg. At the same time, the team which will be racing with it has promised to successfully defend its titles in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). The car is in top form, both technically and visually. It is based on the first generation Polo R WRC that was introduced in 2013.

The start of the career of the new WRC is on 22nd of January when it will compete in the iconic Rally Monte Carlo. The driving line-up for 2015 consists of the double world champions Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia (F/F), Jari-Matti Latvala and Miikka Anttila (FIN/FIN), and Andreas Mikkelsen and Ola Fløene (N/N).

The new race car has undergone intense development, both on the inside and the outside. Undoubtedly, it looks more dynamic and sporty than before, and it also features many technical innovations under the bonnet. Many details of the package have been further developed and improved. The main focus of this improvement was on efficiency, reliability and performance.

The new design livery is built up from blue and white, and in fact the exterior of the new car is the most striking change for the 2015 season. The white of the first gen model has given way to dark-blue. White and light-blue stripes see the dark-blue front merge into the white rear, which features a towering new rear wing.

Integrated in the new design are VW’s partners in the World Rally Championship. You can see featured on the Polo those companies: Red Bull, lubricant partner Castrol, Volkswagen Financial Services, tyre partner Michelin, chassis and clutch specialist ZF Sachs, and supplier OMP.

More importantly, there have been changes made under the bonnet. For instance, there is new hydraulically activated gearbox, which is operated via a shift paddle on the steering column. This is the biggest innovation. Three quarters of last year’s components were checked and many of them were improved. The aim was to make everything “simpler, lighter, and stronger”.

2015 Season, FIA World Rally Championship (WRC):

22/01–25/01/2015 Rally Monte Carlo
12/02–15/02/2015 Rally Sweden
05/03–08/03/2015 Rally Mexico
23/04–26/04/2015 Rally Argentina
21/05–24/05/2015 Rally Portugal
11/06–14/06/2015 Rally Italy
02/07–05/07/2015 Rally Poland
30/07–02/08/2015 Rally Finland
20/08–23/08/2015 Rally Germany
10/09–13/09/2015 Rally Australia
01/10–04/10/2015 Rally France
22/10–25/10/2015 Rally Spain
12/11–15/11/2015 Rally Great Britain

Source: Volkswagen

January 16, 2015

Kahn Shows-Off with Chelsea Truck Company Jeep Wrangler Sahara CJ400

A sleek Flame Red Jeep Wrangler Sahara is the latest addition in Kahn’s garage. This vehicle brings visions of traveling. The spirit and magic of the legendary Wrangler has been given the ultimate tribute by Chelsea Truck Company. When I’m looking at it, I’m mesmerized by its exterior paint scheme. Then my sight is carried over to the new Jeep 1941 wheels in Satin Black. They come in the size of 7.5×17 inch at all four corners and are fitted with 245x75x17 inch tyres.

Behind those wheels, one finds a set of Liquid Red brake callipers and mud flaps. At the front, the tuners have also included Chelsea Truck Company grille and industrial mesh, LED Diamond bright and horizontal headlights, and Tron ring lighting.

The flanks are adorned by side wing blades, new fuel filler cap in satin black and new door mirrors. At the back one sees quad exhaust system in stainless steel and a spare wheel cover which display the Chelsea Truck Company CJ400’s exclusivity.

Those inside the cabin sit in front heated and rear GTB sport seats and behind privacy tinted glass. The centre glove box and armrests have all been re-upholstered in black and red quilted/perforated leather.

Foot pedals have been changed with new. More comfort for the passengers is added via the floor mats and stainless steel door entry sill plates. Kahn’s Jeep Wrangler Sahara 3.6 Petrol 2DR – Chelsea Truck Company CJ400 is currently on sale at a starting price of £43,875.

Source: Kahn Design

January 16, 2015

Lotus Transforms Elise S into a Cup Variant

Lotus has transformed its Elise S model into a Cup variant. The enticing new model has already been extensively tested, showing some great results. This engaging model highlights the pure driving competence elicited by Lotus. It is light, agile and significantly faster in comparison to the standard Elise S. The car has developed from the successful Elise Cup R race car and this means that it has a racing pedigree. In line with Lotus history, the S Cup variant has been tested both at Hethel and the Nürburgring Circuit in Germany.

First thing to be mentioned is the dramatic 3.0s reduction of the Hethel lap time. Then, we should point out the exterior appearance, which has been bolstered with some striking additions. Precisely, the car received new front splitter with end winglets, lateral bargeboards, a fixed roof, tail wing and a purposeful rear diffuser. As a matter of fact, the benefits from the enhanced aerodynamics increase downforce by 66kg at 100mph.

Of course, the car has inherited company’s vital characteristics of combined lightweight engineering and chassis rigidity. All of the modifications are track biased, delivering ride and handling in perfect balance.

The exterior appearance is fresh, with applied focus on the details. In addition, in order to create the transition from road to thoroughly focused track car, the Elise S Cup is equipped with a T45 specification roll-hoop and full roll cage.

Some electrical modifications have also been made. They enable easier installation of a fire extinguisher and “kill-switch”. Lotus Elise S Cup is scheduled to roll off the Lotus production line soon. UK price tag starts at £43,500, while in Germany it will be sold for at least €56,525.

Lotus Elise S Cup Specifications:

Max power – 217 hp at 6800 rpm (220 PS)	Fuel Consumption Urban – 28.5 (9.9) (mpg (l/100 km)
Max torque – 184 lb-ft at 4600rpm (250 Nm)	Fuel Consumption Extra Urban – 46.3 (6.1) (mpg (l/100 km)
Max speed – 140 mph (225 km/h)	Fuel Consumption Combined – 37.5 (7.5) (mpg (l/100 km)
0-60 mph – 4.2 seconds	CO2 emissions – 175 g/km
0-100 km/h – 4.6 seconds	Unladen weight – 932 kg

Source: Lotus

January 16, 2015

John Force and Chevrolet Reveal the 2015 Camaro Funny Car

If it wasn’t true I’d probably think that this car is some sort of joke. It has funny visuals which were inspired by Chevrolet’s history. As a matter of fact, even the name of this vehicle signifies its comical appearance: John Force Chevrolet Camaro Funny Car. The image was released next to the announcement that John Force Racing and Chevrolet will join forces to back the 18-time NHRA Funny Car championship team starting with the 2015 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series season.

It is multi-year agreement which will include three John Force Racing Chevrolet Camaro Funny Cars adorned with the iconic gold bowtie. There will also be a JFR Top Fuel dragster. If you happen to not know who John Force is, well, he is a champion, in fact – a legend, both on and off the track.

A driver and at the same time a team owner, Force is a racer’s racer and a fierce competitor. The first 60 starts of his career were behind the steering wheel of a Chevrolet. In details, from 1978-80 he drove a Corvette before switching to a Citation (1981-82), Camaro (1983-84), Corvette (1985), and then a Cavalier (1986).

The famous driver won the 1994 NHRA Funny Car championship with a Chevy Lumina to a 50-8 record, 11 finals, 10 wins, and 12 No. 1 qualifiers. In fact, this will be Force’s 16th participation in the Funny Car champion and he says that he impatiently waits fro its start.

Force also says that he won his first round of racing, went to his first final and got his first No. 1 in a Chevrolet product. And since then he has won more rounds, races and championships than anyone in the sport. With excitement he reveals that he can’t wait to get to the Winternationals and start adding to those records in a brand new Chevy.

Source: Chevrolet

January 16, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova