Lidia Todorova – Page 108 – Automobiles Review

Aspire Design Crafts Styling Tweaks for Range Rover Sport

Today is the day of Land Rover, since this is the third news we got! For this review are responsible the tuners at Aspire Design, who have taken the Range Rover Sport to a next level. They have finely crafted and custom-made body styling options that add unique solutions and new inspiring look to one of the most popular models. And this goes not only for the exterior but also for the interior.

First to mention is the body styling package, which as you can see endows the Range Rover with sportier and menacing look. When you look at the vehicle, you can’t skip the new front bumper and splitter that incorporate DRL intakes and lights. Then your sight stops at the new front grill which wears tuning company’s logo proudly.

At its flanks the unique car carries new sidevents, door mouldings and extensions for the latter. When you look the Range Rover Sport from its sides, the wheels immediately stand out! Precisely they were custom made and come in the grandeur size of 22×10.5 inches. Currently, Aspire Design is offering them in two finishes: gloss black/machined face and gloss black/machined edge.

At the back, the new rear bumper incorporates brand new rear diffuser and exhaust tips. The rear roof and tailgate spoiler should be also mentioned. All Aspire Design parts are produced from Polyurethane plastic and Carbon fibre.

Although we haven’t received any pictures from the interior, the designers say that the vehicle is equipped with leather interior trim as well as carbon fibre interior paneling.

Source: Aspire Design

January 15, 2015

AC Schnitzer Range Rover Sport Gains Aesthetic Package and More Horsepower

AC Schnitzer prepared a tuning program for the Range Rover Sport and presented it last March at the Geneva Motor Show. Now the talented tuners are ready to take the driving experience of Land Rover customers even further by making the innovative technical and aesthetic tuning solutions available to order from Land Rover dealers at 20 locations across the world. With this, the tuning experts aim to push the boundaries of the Range Rover Sport.

First thing to do was to add more power to the 3.0L SD V6 engine, giving the vehicle greater acceleration and more torque. The numbers have grown from 292 hp (215 kW) and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) to 340 hp (250 kW) and 720 Nm (531 lb-ft).

AC Schnitzer Range Rover Sport can now show-off with 340 hp and 720 Nm!

Surprisingly, the standard fuel consumption and CO2 emissions remain the same thanks to the improvement in efficiency. This increase in power actually enhances the CO2 value per horsepower, and the optimized engine economy.

Visually, the new exhaust pipes give the Range Rover striking final look. There is an option of two “Sports Trim“ tailpipes or four “Sport“ tailpipes both in right/left combination. When it comes to the all-wheel drive mode, it got more agile due to the addition of lowering module. It brings the Range Rover Sport by either 30 or 35 mm closer to the ground.

Contribution to the maneuverability are also making the new 275/40 R 22 or 305/30 R 23 rubbers fitted on Type VIII forged racing alloys in either 10.0J x 22 inch or 11.0J x 23 inch configuration. There is an option of Type V forged alloys in BiColor or anthracite in 10.0J x 22 inch with 275/40 R 22 tyres.

AC Schnitzer also ensured that the vehicle improves its powerful and sporting presence. This was achieved with the addition of the front and rear skirt with integral diffuser. Inside, the cockpit adds new keyholder and velours foot mats.

Below you can watch the first video showing the AC Schnitzer Range Rover Sport. Enjoy!

httpv://youtu.be/e1yONXChRcU

Video Sourcce: YouTube

Source: AC Schnitzer

January 15, 2015

Odd Style but Big Charisma: Meet the 2015 Ram 1500 Rebel

As a true rebel, the 2015 Ram 1500 Rebel brings a one-of-a-kind off-road design to the full-size truck segment. Just take a look at its muscular and aggressive stance, emphasized through its blacked-out grille and the huge billet silver “RAM” letter badge. The grille tops a completely new black off-road front bumper with a new design that incorporates a powder coated, billet silver skid plate, front tow hooks and LED fog lamps. Beneath the aluminum, twin-snorkel sport hood is positioned the black bezel bi-functional projector headlamps with LED marker lights.

The sides are as rebellious and include the same blacked-out design theme. There we can also see black Power Wagon wheel-arch moldings, flat-black badge, mirrors and lower body panels. We can’t skip the 17-inch aluminum wheel with matte black painted accent pockets and multi-angled surfaces.

At the back, we see “RAM” stamped tailgate with blacked-out lettering as well as “Rebel” and “4X4” badges. The new rear bumper is also treated with durable black powder coating, while the tail lamps incorporate black bezels to match forward lighting.

The vehicle will be offered in a choice of five colors: Granite Crystal Metallic, Bright Silver Metallic, Flame Red, Bright White and Brilliant Black. There are also monotone and two-tone paint options.

The interior of the rebel is adorned by technical grain vinyl seats finished in Radar Red and Black. They also feature Sedoso fabric inserts embossed with the Toyo tire tread pattern. The black design scheme is continued through the instrument panel, door armrests and logo-embossed center console armrest cover, which are topped with two-tone Radar Red and Light Gray accent stitching.

In contrast the Radar Red color is used for the anodized vent rings, door accent rings, door trim spears and center console trim ring. The heated steering wheel is wrapped with semi-perforated black leather, accentuated by Radar Red X-stitches.

The engine range should be as rebellious as the vehicle. And it is! It includes the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 unit and 5.7-liter HEMI one in either 4X2 (HEMI only) or 4X4 configurations. There is a RamBox which is optional.

Precisely, the 3.6-liter engine produces 305 horsepower (224 kW) and 365 Nm (269 lb-ft) of torque. Despite its might it offers best-in-class gasoline fuel economy of 25 (mpg). On the other hand, the iconic 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 generates 395 horsepower (537 kW) and 555 Nm (410 lb-ft) of torque.

The TorqueFlite 8 automatic transmission is standard equipment for both units. In addition, they are available with a rear anti-spin differential, which turns both rear wheels in tandem when increased torque is applied.

2015 Ram 1500 Rebel goes on sale in the second half of this year.

Source: Ram Truck Brand

January 15, 2015

Opel ADAM Gets new Swing Top Roof and Greater Efficiency

The new “mini” in Opel’s range, called ADAM, now gets even more individual than before. The company has added new technologies and features that have extended the ADAM family. For instance, there is this Swing Top canvas roof that now comes as a standard in the “Swingtop” trim. The customers will also enjoy the optional Glam Extreme Package ‘Hashtag’ and the Easytronic 3.0. The latter is the newest automated transmission developed by Opel.

Pure open-air pleasure can now be achieved thanks to the new Swing top. This trim level of the model will be based on the ADAM JAM configuration. The roof retracts to the C-pillar at the touch of a button for only five seconds and it can be closed up to speeds of 140 km/h.

The materials used include a central neoprene layer, which make the Swing Top robust and durable. And don’t worry about the noise. The entire roof module is acoustically tuned for good insulation inside the cabin.

Next, the newly developed Easytronic 3.0 completes ADAM’s transmission range. This automated gearbox benefits from enhanced efficiency and shortened response times. When Easytronic is combined with the 87 hp (64 kW) 1.4-liter naturally aspirated engine, it reduces fuel consumption by up to 0.4 liters per 100 kilometers for the combined cycle (when compared to a five-speed manual).

The CO2 reduction is equivalent to 10 grams per kilometer. In other words ADAM 1.4 ecoFLEX with Start/Stop needs only 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers and emits just 109 grams of CO2 per kilometer.

At last, Opel has also extended the color palette for the bodywork colors with ‘Forget about Grey’ and ‘Greenfellas’ shades. This means that customers can choose from a total of 19 different bodywork colors.

Opel ADAM Swingtop has a starting price of 14,990 euro.

Source: Opel

January 15, 2015

Range Rover Evoque NW8 Pays Tribute to Famous Abbey Road

Montreal International Auto Show will see the birth of a special edition which is “Inspired by Britain” – the Range Rover Evoque NW8. Car’s distinctive NW8 badging reflects the postcode in North West London, UK. This place is at the heart of the city’s creative scene for more than 50 years and is also home to world famous Abbey Road. This Range Rover is based on the Dynamic trim level and is the third of three special editions, complementing the existing SW1 Monochrome and SW1 Colour.

The bold combination of colours makes this model extremely individual. The body of this jewel is painted in Fuji White, while the roof is in the contrasting Firenze Red. The red colour is used also for mirror caps as well as for the Range Rover lettering on the bonnet and tailgate.

Take a look at the darkened headlights and foglamps, clear rear lights and the Santorini Black wing vents! Then add the grille and the 20-inch alloys are finished in Narvik Black – they all emphasize Evoque’s confident stance.

Inside, the vehicle is as individualized as outside. Here one ca chose between Taurus leather Ebony seats with Pimento perforated inserts or Ebony seats with perforated Ebony inserts. Other highlights feature embroidered headrests and an Anodised Red rotary Driver Selector with matching CommandShiftTMgearshift paddles. In case of manual models, there is a white gearlever insert with red graphics.

A distinctive motif, which is inspired by the iconic Abbey Road zebra crossing, sets this model apart from the others. It can be seen on the treadplates, seat tags and key fob. 2015 Range Rover Evoque NW8 will be produced in only 1000 examples and will be available only to specific markets, such as U.S. and Canada.

Source: Land Rover

January 15, 2015

Is 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor the Ultimate Performance Truck? [VIDEO]

Ford says that its 2017 F-150 Raptor is the toughest, smartest, most capable off-roader, which is in addition more efficient than ever. It is the toughest, because it features a purpose-built frame, which is the “backbone of the truck”. More importantly, it features more high-strength steel than the outgoing Raptor. Furthermore, vehicle’s exterior is built via high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy that saves more than 500 pounds of weight. Speaking of exterior, the appearance of the Raptor is inspired by Ford’s performance heritage in off-road racing.

Another difference is that the 2017 Raptor is 6 inches wider than the standard F-150. This of course improves stability. The vehicle also boasts the first-ever dual exhaust and runs on gigantic 17-inch wheels fitted with next-generation BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires.

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine is what drives the Raptor. It produces 411 horsepower (302 kW) and 588 Nm (434 lb.-ft.) of torque and it is mated to a 10-speed transmission for improved efficiency.

Of course, the truck features four-wheel-drive and torque-on-demand transfer case. The latter manages power distribution between the front and rear wheels and combines the best attributes of clutch-driven, on-demand all-wheel drive.

The new Terrain Management System actually optimizes driving dynamics to environmental conditions. There are also calibration changes to Raptor’s powertrain, driveline, traction control, ABS and AdvanceTrac stability control for optimal performance.

Furthermore, the off-road capability of the vehicle is made better thanks to the Torsen front differential. It increases grip for the front end of the truck and allows it to pull itself over obstacles and up steep grades.

Next thing to note is the standard FOX Racing Shox with custom internal bypass technology. It damps and stiffens suspension travel over rough terrain and helps prevent the truck from bottoming out.

Stepping inside the Raptor, the passengers enjoy comfortable interior. The added content for the new model year includes interior upgrades, three color material levels, and paddle shifters to manually shift the 10-speed transmission.

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor will go on sale in the fall of 2016.

httpv://youtu.be/fIeXBqvF_bg

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Ford

January 14, 2015

2016 Ford GT: a Carbon Fiber Supercar that Delivers More Than 600 HP [VIDEO]

No, this is not a Ferrari but Ford’s new GT lightweight carbon-fiber supercar, which is created with the aim to deliver new standards in the supercar segment. It is powered by the most potent EcoBoost production engine ever, delivering more than 600 horsepower. The new GT supercar has rear-wheel drive and a sleek, aerodynamic, two-door coupe body shell. The latter is built via an extensive utilization of lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum. This enables excellent acceleration and handling with improved efficiency.

GT can also show-off with advanced active aerodynamics like the deployable rear spoiler. There are also a host of material and technology innovations such as the SYNC 3 connectivity system, which will assist the driver during its journey.

As mentioned, the powertrain here is the next-generation twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. It features a wide powerband with impressive time-to-torque characteristics, and shows remarkable efficiency.

In addition, the GT supercar features new port/direct dual fuel-injection setup which improves engine response; there is also a low-friction roller-finger-follower valvetrain. The EcoBoost V6 will be coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle for instantaneous gear changes and outstanding driver control.

Aerodynamic efficiency is one of the key characteristics of the vehicle. It actively reduces drag while aiding downforce and stability. Literally, each surface on the GT is crafted to manage airflow. There are also fully active aerodynamic components that enhance braking, handling and stability.

All of this is backed up with contemporary and functional shape, 20-inch multispoke wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires and carbon-ceramic brake discs at all four corners. Inside, one finds two-seat cockpit accessed through upward-swinging doors. The cabin features driver and passenger seats integrated directly into the carbon fiber passenger cell.

Have you noticed the F1-style steering wheel which integrates all necessary driver controls? There is also a fully digital and configurable instrument cluster providing the driver-focused data.

2016 Ford GT will go into production next year and will hit the road in select global markets. It will to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ford GT race cars placing 1-2-3 at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans.

httpv://youtu.be/W8K3DpqWtpg

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Ford

January 14, 2015

2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel HFE Stands for Highest Fuel Economy

Ram Truck has good news for its environmentally minded customers. It will add new and more fuel-efficient model to its half-ton truck lineup – the 2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel HFE. This vehicle will deliver the best fuel efficiency among all its competitors. And this is why Ram has called this model “HFE”, meaning “Highest Fuel Economy”. The truck already got an EPA-certified 29 mpg highway fuel economy rating, while the city and combined mpgs are 21 and 24, respectively.

Furthermore, the “fuel economy king” is also equipped with one-of-a-kind trim package. It also features 6-ft. 4-in. bed as well as huge 20-inch wheels. The truck will be also available with a body-colored fascia adopted from the Ram Express model, thus giving it sporty exterior appearance.

Not to mention the class-exclusive wheel-to-wheel side steps and a tri-fold tonneau cover, which will offer better functionality, best-in-class aerodynamics and better fuel efficiency. There will be a special HFE badge which will proudly show truck’s MPG claims.

TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, stop-start system, thermal management system are all standard here. The active aerodynamics, including grille shutters and air suspension also contribute towards vehicles outstanding fuel efficiency.

1500 EcoDiesel HFE will be offered with several trims destined to combine capability with sophistication. Precisely, they are called Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Laramie Limited, and they feature full-leather seating, real wood interior components and modish design.

2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel HFE will go on sale in the first quarter of this year.

Source: Ram Truck Brand

January 14, 2015

2016 Lincoln MKX Offers More Power and Better Agility

2016 Lincoln MKX has debuted at the North American International Auto Show. The vehicle has grown from a concept to a production form and it will satisfy the senses of the public in North America as well as China, Middle East, Mexico and South Korea. All in all, it will offer more technology, engine choices and personalization options as well as unprecedented luxury. Moreover, the new MKX is equipped with the first high-end Revel audio system in a vehicle. It also can be equipped with 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine, while the range of designer’s themes consists of two Lincoln Black Label limited-editions.

At the top of the engine list sits the optional 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged Ti-VCT EcoBoost V6 unit. It produces more than enough: 330 horsepower (243 kW) and more than 501 Nm (370 lb.-ft.) of torque.

MKX will come as a standard with the 3.7-liter V6 engine, which produces 300 horsepower (220 kW) and 379 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque.

Both engines are coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission with push-button shift and SelectShift. Front-wheel drive is standard, while the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive is optional.

Lincoln Drive Control is a suite of ride-enhancing technologies, which are destined to optimize performance. They have three modes: Normal, Sport and Comfort, each of which will assist the driver. As a standard the car also comes with electric power-assisted steering and is the first Lincoln to offer adaptive steering.

There is also a wide range of aids and technologies as an option: adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping system, blind spot information system, cross-traffic alert and a height-adjustable hands-free power liftgate as well as the 360-degree camera and the enhanced park assist.

Another interesting characteristic in this Lincoln, which is also available for the first time, is the enhanced driver visibility. The available LED headlamps include a feature that adapts when accelerating from 0 to 35 mph by adding width to the low-beam pattern through the use of additional LED reflector elements.

As you can see, the exterior design of the vehicle is modern and well-balanced. The interior creates a cocoon-like environment. There is a push-button gearshift which creates a dramatic open suspension bridge that flows from the instrument panel to the center console, providing two tiers of open space.

The two new Black Label themes will be offered with four designer themes, two of which are all-new. The first one is inspired by the fashion, lifestyle and art scene of 1920s Paris. The second one interprets excitement, passion and pageantry of high-stakes thoroughbred horse racing.

2016 Lincoln MKX will go on sale first in the United States this fall. Then it will be followed by other markets including China, Canada, the Middle East, Mexico and South Korea.

Source: Lincoln

January 14, 2015

Honda Launches FCV Concept at NAIAS

2016 Honda FCV Concept has been revealed at NAIAS. The vehicle is planned to be produced specifically in the United States and Japan and its market debut is scheduled for March 2016. Honda‘s environmental plan includes the production of several advanced powertrain vehicles, including a new battery-electric model and plug-in hybrid model by 2018. What is more, the Japanese company also envisions further application of its two- and three-motor hybrid systems in the near future. This will offer Honda users in the US very low carbon transportation. In addition, Honda plans to introduce new VTEC Turbo engines that will debut later this year.

FCV Concept is company’s next-gen fuel-cell vehicle. The fuel-cell car has spacious cabin and offers seating for five-persons. Its driving range is estimated to be more than 300 miles, while the refueling time is approximately 3 minutes at a pressure of 70 MPa.

The car has a fuel cell stack, which is mounted under the hood. Compared to the outgoing Honda FCX Clarity, it is 33 percent smaller with a 60 percent increase in power density. As you can see, the FCV Concept features a low, wide aerodynamic body and clean character lines.

Inside, the designers have successfully achieved harmony between man and machine. They have also taken advantage of the powertrain packaging efficiencies, thus delivering greater passenger space and room for five.

What is more, Honda has announced that it will provide FirstElement Fuel with $13.8 million in financial assistance and will build additional hydrogen refueling stations throughout the state of California. In addition, by 2018 the company will introduce two next-generation advanced powertrain vehicles which will use the new Honda Earth Dreams Technology powertrains: new Honda plug-in hybrid model (PHEV) and new Honda battery-electric vehicle (BEV).

The new 4-cylinder VTEC Turbo engine will be introduced by the end of the year. It will be part of the extension of the Earth Dreams Technology powertrain lineup and hence it will deliver fuel efficiency at a very high level.

Source: Honda

January 14, 2015

Hyundai’s “Urban Adventurer” Santa Cruz Crossover Truck Concept Revealed in Detroit

Hyundai Santa Cruz Crossover Truck Concept is company’s take on sport truck concepts, which was just unveiled at NAIAS. It is a completely new interpretation of truck utility aimed at the drivers in the city areas. This means that the design of the Santa Cruz includes more attributes in comparison to the traditional pickups. And yes, the concept vehicle is more expressive, efficient and maneuverable. Or to say it this way: Santa Cruz is for the growing population who sees and pursues the world differently. It combines the traditional attributes of a small CUV, but adds those characteristics needed for the “Urban Adventures”.

The designers of the car have featured at the front upright and hexagonal grille with cascading lines framing the sides, dual lens-free, honeycombed headlamp projectors, and prominent LED fog lamps. The sides of the CUV are highlighted by oversized wheels, Michelin tires with a special tread design, center-locking hubs and yellow Brembo brake calipers.

The rear seats can be accessed easily with rear-hinged rear doors which integrate seamlessly with the front door design. At the back, the concept presents highly-contoured bed forms and can be reconfigured for longer cargo.

One of the key characteristics of this CUV is the efficiency. The powertrain is the 2.0-liter turbo diesel unit which produces 190 horsepower (140 kW) and 407 Nm (300 lb.-ft.) of torque, but it is capable of achieving fuel economy in the high 30 mpg range. Santa Cruz is also equipped with the HTRAC All-wheel drive system.

For those who need even more cargo room, there is this innovative tailgate extension which allows the bed length to be expanded whenever needed. When fully extended, Santa Cruz’s bed length is similar to a mid-size pickup.

All in all, Hyundai’s Santa Cruz Crossover Truck Concept is intended to attract CUV and sedan buyers who are looking for greater utility, without the compromises that the traditional trucks often demand.

Source: Hyundai

January 13, 2015

Volvo Introduces S60 Inscription Luxury Model in Detroit

Volvo is introducing at the Detroit Auto Show the new S60 Inscription model, which comes with extra spacious interior and luxury design. It focuses on elegance and comfort and it is specifically aimed to meet the requirements of U.S. customers. The “Inscription” designation takes the S60 to a higher level in terms of comfort and convenience. The car offers 3.4 inches additional rear seat legroom and features and added luxury thanks to the utilization of the most natural materials, attention to detail and the iconic Scandinavian design language. The materials used in the S60 Inscription reflect the authentic Scandinavian origins of the brand.

Take for example the Linear Walnut trim or the silk metal detailing. In addition, to this the car is equipped with unique 19” wheels which add to the stability and muscularity that this car exudes. Other enhancements include interior accent lighting and Inscription branded tread plates.

Volvo S60 Inscription will be offered in two variants: Premier and Platinum. The first one will add leather upholstery, a sun/moon roof and the Sensus Navigation package. It will also come with the optional T5 in both front-wheel drive and All-Wheel Drive.

The Platinum trim level adds over the aforementioned equipment full Sensus technology package, a high-end Harman Kardon audio system, dual Xenon lights and a thoughtful convenience package. Volvo S60 Inscription is scheduled to go on sale in the U.S. this summer.

Source: Volvo

January 13, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova