Lidia Todorova – Page 126 – Automobiles Review

Porsche Panamera Turbo S Executive Exclusive Series Redefines Luxury Experience

Porsche’s uniquely luxury Panamera Exclusive Series has just been revealed ahead of its official release at the auto show in Los Angeles. Its exclusivity is further strengthened by the fact that it will be produced in only 100 examples. The car is based on the 570 hp all-wheel drive Panamera Turbo S Executive long wheelbase, but adds wide range of special features and equipment.

Another interesting fact is that for the first time in Porsche’s history a two-tone paint finish has been offered for the Panamera. Precisely, a Jet Black metallic is combined with a Chestnut Brown metallic. Moreover, each one of the examples has been painted by hand, which further ensures a perfect harmonious progression of the two colors.

The same Jet Metallic paint has been also used for the 20-inch Sport Classic wheels on which the Porsche runs. Inside, the interior is as elegant as the outer shell. The seats and the lower door panels have been wrapped in chestnut brown leather, which was hand-picked and is exceptionally soft.

In addition, the upper door trim is in Black Milled Nappa leather. The accents inside have been highlighted via contrasting Chestnut Brown stitching. The decorative interior trim elements also feature a transition of dark walnut wood into a deep black piano lacquer surface from the front to the rear.

As a standard this exclusive model will get the Rear Seat Entertainment System Plus. It comprises of two high-resolution 10.1-inch touchscreens on the back of the front headrests with a built-in camera and integrated DVD player. The sound is played via wireless headphones or the Burmester high-end surround sound system.

People enjoying the ride in this Panamera Exclusive Series, can be sure if its uniqueness thanks to the interior plaque showing its individual limited edition number as well as the hand-made badges behind the front air intakes on the outside.

To make their journey unforgettable, the company has prepared a special gift: custom-tailored luggage set with two trolleys, two weekender bags and a beauty case. Porsche Panamera Exclusive Series is currently available for a starting price of $263,900 USD.

Source: Porsche

October 31, 2014

Scion Scores with Three SEMA Entries

SEMA Show in Las Vegas is approaching and there is no question that we are to see some ruthless vehicles there. Scion has unveiled yesterday one of the vehicles in its lineup for the show – the two-tone Scion tC Release Series 9.0. Now it is time to lift the veil on three other interpretations of the tC, FR-S and xB, which feature exciting custom upgrades and individual.

The first vehicle from the trio is the head-turning FR-S T1, which was built by Jeremy Lookofsky of Cartel Customs. The car offers a two-tone combination and a black targa top. It is painted in a custom color called Azzuro California Blue, which additionally strengthens the look of its muscular wide body and integrated rear spoiler.

The car has been lowered and sits on custom 19-inch forged wheels. There is also a high-mounted custom center exhaust that attracts the attention. Other highlights here include GReddy street turbo kit, KW coil-over suspension, Wilwood Big Brake Kit with custom nickel-plated finish as well as OEM Audio+ System 400 complemented by a Pioneer AVIC-8000NEX head unit.

The retro rolling Scion x Riley Hawk Skate Tour xB is an example how 1970s style and passion for music can blend seamlessly. This project is result of the work of Scott Kanemura of KMA Productions, who was inspired by the interests of professional skateboarder Riley Hawk.

The car really looks odd due to its extraordinary and fun features like the wood-grain décor, a mini fridge, shag carpet, an 8-track player, a Big Pioneer Sound System and the ability to play guitar through the audio system using an iPad mini as mixer.

There is also a cargo box, which has been integrated with an INNO rack system to store skateboards. The other fun elements in this project include 1970s style custom paint pattern with a “fish bowl” side window, dual side exhaust pipes which oddly enough are non-functional, plush captain-style chairs in the front and back, motorized rear-facing monitor for media play back as well as dual-motion table that both slides out and pivots up with storage below.

My personal preference is the third car in the lineup. Since I have seen its teaser image, I was eager to see it as soon as possible. I’m talking about the Killer-Sounding Scion x Slayer Mobile Amp tC. Here, Mike Vu of MV DESIGNZ, has translated the look and sound of thrash metal band Slayer into the Scion tC.

The car looks aggressive and features custom paint job with airbrushed logos and skulls, suicide doors and Billet Slayer sword blade wheels with spike-style center caps. The interior turns up the volume even higher with a custom Pioneer audio system with towers of speakers, a custom mixer and a 32-inch monitor for media playback. In fact, fans will see this car in action, when Slayer members demonstrate its audio capabilities at the Show by plugging in two guitars to jam without any external equipment.

Source: Scion

October 31, 2014

Citroen C3 Aircross Lunar Concept: Strange and Sweet as the Cactus?

Obviously Citroen does not like conventionality. Especially, when it comes to names. First we got the Cactus, and now we get the C3 Aircross Lunar Concept. Sounding more like a space satellite, this strange-dubbed automobile just had its premiere at the auto show in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The show opened doors today and is to continue till 9th of November.

The concept is based on the C3 Picasso, but as you can see it gets a more aggressive and sporty appearance. In fact, it actually looks as the larger C4 Aircross. There are literally no details revealed around this concept, so we can just put our imagination into practice or observe what we can see from the two images released by Citroen.

Well, the car is fitted with knobby BF Goodrich tyres so that it can effortlessly conquer the moon. There muscular appearance is strengthened by the beefed-up bumpers and contrasting wheel arches. The funny but very popular safe-oriented C4 Cactus has served as an inspiration here as you can see from the side sills.

In addition, what makes this concept stranger is the oddly square spare tyre carrier. How about the roof rack with dual containers anchored to the front wheel arches. It seems that this vehicle is perfectly prepared to go to the moon, isn’t it?

Source: Citroen

October 31, 2014

Lister Seeks Investors for Exclusive Hypercar Project

Lister-concept-THUB Remember Lister Motor Company? It is one of the most historic and significant of all the British sports and racing car manufacturers. The bran was re-launched last year at the turn of its 60th anniversary via the Lister Jaguar Knobbly model. Twelve months have been gone since the re-birth of the company and nine successfully sold Knobblys. But the main reason that we write about the British manufacturer is that it has announced an exciting project.

The management team has announced its desire to expand the Lister business. This of course means a development of new and exciting product – a highly sophisticated Hypercar that will return Lister to the leading edge of low-volume sports cars. However, this is a big-term project, because the brand is currently seeking external investors that have the desire to join it on the incredible journey.

The only details around the upcoming project are these two teaser sketches you see. We sincerely hope that Lister will continue with its bold intentions and eventually make the Hypercar. As a reminder, Knobbly racing car is traditionally hand-built and went on sale in April this year.

The new Knobbly will be offered with two engine variants. The first one is the 3.8-liter inline-six unit which generates 330 horsepower (243 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque and is mated to a four-speed Jaguar gearbox. The second option is a 4.6-liter V8 powertrain that generates 315 hp (232 kW) and 393 Nm (290 lb-ft) of torque and is coupled with a four-speed manual transmission.

Source: Lister Motor Company

October 31, 2014

Chevrolet’s Four Brazilian Concepts May Preview Production Models

They are four and they have all been just exhibited at the Sao Paulo auto show. If you already have heard about them, we are hinting at Chevrolet’s four new concepts. It is not official, but we can say that some of them might enter production soon and we are very excited about it. Just take a look at them and you’ll know why. The fleet of vehicles displayed in Brazil features the following concepts: S10 High Country, Onix Track Day, Onix Effect and Cobalt.

First, the S10 High Country has received a number of equipment features such as headlamps and dark chrome 18-inch wheels with unique finish, chrome trim at the base of the windows and a unique Red Chili exterior paint finish.

Inside, the car is based on the 2015 Trailblazer. This means that it includes leather upholstery in two colors, with the predominant Brownstone and stitching in the same color. The panel comes with glossy black finish.

Next is the Onix Track Day Concept which evokes thoughts of spectacular performance. Just bear in mind the completely modified mechanical, suspension, engine brakes and exhaust system. Under the hood of this car is the Ecotec 1.8 Flex, which produces around 150 horsepower (110 kW).

Other highlights here also include 215 / 45 R17 new front and rear spoilers that contribute to better aerodynamics, and of course the eye-catching bright yellow paint of the bodywork. The latter has received as a contrast exclusive artwork and dark ceiling. Inside, the interior brings shell type seats, “flat base” steering wheel coated with noble materials, four safety belts and other exclusive finishing details.

Onix Effect is the third concept exhibited at the show. It is based on the same model as the previous car and also offers a sporty look. On the outside, the Onix Effect differs mainly by dark the 15-inch wheels and the aero package. The kit comprises of skirts and spoilers, headlights and taillights with “smoked” details.

Glossy black finish covers the ceiling, B columns, external mirrors and the frame of the front grille. There are stickers on the hood, sides and tailgate, which contrast with the white paint of the bodywork. Inside, the concept gets multi-function steering wheel, red satin elements, embroidered carpets and new instrument panel. Here the powertrain is the Onix LTZ 1.4, developing 106 horsepower (78 kW).

At last, the Chevrolet Cobalt is a sedan which runs on Spin Active 16-inch wheels. It features dark chrome radiator grille with glossy black details. Dimmed lights, rear bumper bar also in dark chrome and adhesives column in black high gloss complements the exclusive painting “Glory Red”.

The interior in the case of Cobalt features “Jet Black” dashboard, doors and carpet. Dark leather seats are also there ad they can show off with stitching and embroidery in light gray, giving a special touch of elegance and sophistication to the concept.

Source: Chevrolet

October 30, 2014

Is FCC4 Concept the Next Big Thing for Fiat? [VIDEO]

Fiat says that its FCC4 Concept explores the language in design. The car was unveiled at the auto show at Sao Paulo with the introductory words that it is a “real four door coupe with an adventurous spirit”. However, we find that the FCC4 is some kind of odd mixture between a pickup and a Range Rover Evoque. What do you think? The FCC4 adopts a specific typology for a car, it treads hybrid paths, has generous dimensions and raised floor height. All of this is combined with the luxury and internal space of a large sedan.

At its sides the concept car has unprecedented and surprising proportions. They definitely reveal its dynamic character via the dynamic lines and muscular surfaces. As you can see the glass area has been reduced in order to recreate the feeling of protection and privacy.

The windshield, lateral glass area and rear glass further emphasize the highly dynamic character of the concept. The menacing front look of the FCC4 is achieved via new daylight running LEDs and other optical groups underneath.

The rear features a fastback glass, LED lamps that repeat the front assembly and the exhausts at the ends of the bumper and the aluminum central protection. The asymmetrical doors appear to be also provocative, because they adopt a new typology of opening and use. The concept car is loaded with technology and refinement.

Of course, we can’t miss the exuberant color of the body of this Fiat, which is metallic blue, and makes the concept noble and luminous, with nuances of light and shadow. At last, the dimensions of the Fiat FCC4 really prove that it is different: the length is 5,000 mm, width – 1,940 and height – 1,600 mm.

httpv://youtu.be/4nL-y3meSAQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Fiat

October 30, 2014

Volkswagen Up! Becomes Sportier in Germany

Two years ago Volkswagen introduced a super mini car called with the strange name up! It became a big hit around the globe and it is common view on the city streets, thanks to its fuel-efficient characteristics, great price and convenient dimensions. Now, the company is announcing a derivative of the model, which features unique styling inside and out, and it is called street up! special edition.

It was created with the intent to appeal to the sports-minded customers. As you can see VW’s street up! has catchy black exterior with contrasting mirror caps and special white and yellow stripes on the hood, roof, doors and side panels. There is also a “Street” lettering on the doors.

Despite the fact that the car is based on the up! 5 door version, it features a sport-tuned suspension, chrome fog light surrounds and runs on 16-inch alloy wheels. Other design cues feature chrome mirror caps and fog lights frames.

The same sporty treatment can be seen also inside, where there the upholstery features yellow contrast stitching. “Black Style” design package is adds black headliner and darkened side windows. At last, the “Up!” lettering can be seen on the seats and door sills. The car also features air conditioning, an RCD 215 radio and a unique gear knob.

Volkswagen Street Up can be powered by any of the engines available in the Up lineup. The pricing of the car begins at €13,575 and it is available only in Germany.

Source: Volkswagen

October 30, 2014

2015 Scion tC Release Series 9.0 Stands Out Form the Crowd

Thanks to its visual credentials, 2015 Scion tC Release Series 9.0 can effortlessly stand out from the crowd. Its vibrant magma orange and black exterior as well as the aero kit designed by Cartel Customs makes it more than appealing. This limited-edition car is a result of the joint work of Scion and Jeremy Lookofsky of Cartel Customs. Form it will be produced only 2,000 units, which makes it pretty unique.

The bold exterior of the two-tone version of the sports coupe is intended for drivers who are looking for a show car they can drive every day. Other details that will be featured only here are the center exhaust and the blacked out Scion badge, which bring the final aggressive detail to the front face.

The orange theme is continued inside and can be seen in the form of stitching on the steering wheel and seats. There is also an orange paint on the dashboard components, door panels and shifter surround. Last to mention in the interior are the Smart Key with Push Button Start featuring the “Cartel Logo” and orange front seat belts.

tC Release Series 9.0 will be running on black finish alloy wheels with matching center cap. The other contrasting black elements are the gloss black finish side mirrors and door handles. Scion have added also special Release Series badge mirror cover, Toyota Racing Development lowering springs, high-profile rear spoiler as well as Cartel logo floor and cargo mats.

This exceptional limited edition vehicle will be equipped with either six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management technology. It has a starting price of $23,190 USD and is expected to arrive in dealerships in January next year.

Source: Scion

October 30, 2014

Jeep Wows Brazil with 2015 Renegade

2015 Jeep Renegade has been introduced in March but it is not late for the vehicle to make its first official appearance in Latin America. The equivalent of the show in Geneva is Sao Paulo and it is where the magic happens. In fact, at this show debut such vehicles that we can’t see anywhere else in the world. Take for example the Nissan Kicks concept or the new Troller T4.

But continuing with the main topic, the Renegade stands out with its perfect proportions, which is ideal for the region’s narrow roads. The car offers great off-road capability, open-air freedom and convenience. More importantly, it is equipped with a segment-first nine-speed automatic transmission that contributes to outstanding on-road and off-road driving dynamics.

In Brazil, the nine-speed automatic is coupled with the 2.0-liter Multijet II diesel engine flex fuel, while the 1.8-liter E.TorQ engine comes linked to the five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. As a matter of fact, the Renegade will be the first compact SUV equipped with a diesel engine to be sold in Brazil.

In addition, it will also be the first Brazilian-made car that will have the ParkAssist function. 2015 Jeep Renegade perfectly matches the spirit of adventure and can-do attitude of the country and is expected to attract thousands of new customers to the brand. The sales are expected to start during the second quarter of 2015.

Source: Jeep

October 30, 2014

2015 R8 Competition is the Most Potent Production Audi

2015 Audi R8 Competition which is one of the most powerful and fastest production cars is set to debut at the upcoming 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show. And this is what we needed today to pump some excitement in our blood. This aggressive car will be only an exclusively available in the United States and will go to no more than 60 lucky customers. The strictly limited edition R8 Competition redefines the iconic R8 with 570 hp (420 kW) peak performance and racing-inspired, lightweight matte carbon elements.

In fact, this power rating makes the newcomer the closest road car to R8 LMS ultra race car. The R8 Competition is powered by the 5.2L V10 engine which is coupled to seven-speed S tronic transmission. The car also features a sport exhaust system with black high-gloss tailpipes.

This is a perfect combination, which will accelerate the car from standstill to 60 mph in mere 3.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 199 mph. Note that these numbers make the R8 Competition the fastest R8 ever offered.

Audi has thought about the exterior and gave it striking matte carbon exterior elements consisting of a fixed rear spoiler, engine bay, mirror housings, flics, side blades, front spoiler and rear diffusor. Of course, thanks to the utilization of the lightweight material, the weight of the car is lowered which results in greater downforce.

Gloss black wheels with 305 cross-section rear tires and ceramic brakes with anodized red brake calipers make a stunning contrast to the matte carbon fiber elements. The interior of the car is also adorned by carbon carbon fiber. The material can be seen on the center console and illuminated “R8 competition” door sill inlays.

Since a total of 60 units will be produced, customers can begin ordering 2015 Audi R8 Competition as of early November. The deliveries are expected to beginning in 2015. We definitely dig this unique vehicle and the fact that it has brought some of the most important characteristics of the R8 to a new level. What are your thoughts on this?

Source: Audi

October 29, 2014

Nissan Kicks Concept is What We Have Not Expected

Nissan Kicks Concept is what we haven’t expected. Not in terms of a vehicle, because it was teased and we have been anticipating it, but because of the strange choice of name. The so called Kicks Concept will be premiered at the Sao Paulo International Motor Show this week next o the March Rio 2016 Edition. Nissan says that its design is reflecting the design inspiration from Brazilian streets and that it was designed for its people.

The Japanese brand saw a big gap between vehicles on Brazilian roads, which were mainly silver, black and white in color, and they weren’t reflecting the exuberant nature of the country and its people. Kicks Concept comes to bridge that gap.

This is made possible via the utilization of two contrast shades: grey tones that are example of the urban settings in Sao Paulo, and the bright sunset orange that is uniquely Brazilian. Nissan also says that they are seriously taking into consideration offering the crossover in other countries. And it will be a cheaper alternative to the Juke.

The Kicks concept was runs on large 19-inch alloy wheels. It has the typical crossover characteristics such as aggressive bumpers, raised driving position and roof rails. The V-shaped front grille is also present.

This small SUV measures 4300mm in length, 1800mm in width and 1600mm in height, and is built over a 2620mm wheelbase. Nissan also revealed a couple of videos which reveal little bit more about the car. Take a look:

Source: Nissan

October 29, 2014

Gold Body Kit Micra is called Nissan March Rio 2016 Edition in Brazil

Nissan will roll out the March Rio 2016 Edition during the upcoming Sao Paulo Motor Show later this week. The car celebrates the 2016 Olympics, since the Japanese company is one of the main sponsors of the games. Although we definitely find charming this golden version of the Micra, Nissan said that there are no plans to put the car into production.

Yes, you have read it right; Nissan March Rio 2016 Edition is a Micra with a Gold Body Kit. The car features white and gold exterior paint scheme as well as golden accents on the lower section of the bumpers, side skirts, mirrors, roof spoiler and alloy wheels. The back shows how the black painted roof is continued by a very nice boot lid spoiler.

The vehicle gets the engine of the locally produced March, which is the 16V 1.6-liter FlexFuel unit that works on either gasoline or ethanol. The powerplant generates 111 horsepower (83 kW), which is simply enough for the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint to be covered in 9.5 seconds.

It is here where athletes like Usain Bolt would be impressed, but if we compare the little car with a performance one, then we shouldn’t be impressed at all. The top speed of the model is positioned at 119 mph (191 km/h).

Despite the performance figures, we definitely fin this Nissan vehicle very appealing. So we have to thank to the newly established Nissan Design America Rio studio, where it was developed.

Source: Nissan

October 29, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova