Author: Lidia Todorova

  • More Features at No Extra Cost? Go for the new Toyota Camry

    Toyota-Camry-Hybrid-THUMBToyota Camry gets some sustention at no extra cost! How cool is that! The car now has an upgraded audio system and a standard reversing camera. There’s a catch though: the changes come for free for the four petrol and two petrol-electric hybrid Camry variants. Every audio system includes a touch screen, while four of the six variants have a 6.1-inch screen that also displays the image from the reversing camera.

    At the top of the petrol lineup sits the Atara SL. This trim along with the hybrid HL are getting 7-inch screens with satellite navigation and the addition of Toyota Link connected mobility. The latter has an application which helps drivers find a destination, fuel or weather details and etc.

    Toyota Camry is in its seventh generation form. It features 2.5-litre petrol engines in petrol or petrol-electric hybrid configurations. Precisely, the Camry Altise delivers 181 horsepower (133 kW) of power and 231 Nm (170 lb-ft) of torque.

    The Atara trim will benefit from new twin exhausts that will help lift output to 184 hp (135 kW) and 235 Nm (173 lb-ft). Fuel economy across the petrol range is just 7.8 litres/100km.

    The hybrid version shows stand-out performance and economy thanks to its hybrid system. The latter has a combined output of 205 hp (151 kW) with power varied between the petrol engine and electric motor. Fuel use here is estimated at just 5.2 litres/100km.

    Source: Toyota

  • The Most Powerful Diesel Ford Kuga is Born!

    2014-Ford-Kuga-THUMBFord is unleashing the beast hidden in its most powerful diesel Kuga. In addition, the refined SUV also comes with wide range of upgrades such as standard Auto-Start-Stop and Active Grille Shutter. Thanks to the improvement in the engine range and these two features the vehicles now also offer lower CO2 emissions. Do you know what a tiger eye is? Well, if you do then you can imagine the color in the palette called Tiger Eye metallic.

    But the most important feature, which will deliver great pleaser to the one sitting behind the steering wheel, is the new 2.0-litre TDCi engine, which comes with an increased peak power. The horsepower in total 180 hp (132 kW) (this is additional 17 hp), while the torque is raised from 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) to 400 Nm (295 lb-ft).

    This engine choice will ensure that there is the most pulling power ever for Kuga. This fact will be further strengthened by the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system. Onther update in the engine range is the addition of the brand new 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine. It delivers reduced CO2 emissions (to 143g/km from 154g/km). The other unit for Kuga is the 150hp (110 kW) 2.0-litre TDCi option that delivers 122g/km of CO2.

    Other benefits for the new updated Kuga include the Ford SYNC with AppLink and Ford’s advanced driver assistance technologies (such as Rear View Camera which is standard). Next to the Tiger Eye Metallic exterior paint, Kuga will boast other new colours: Ruby Red Metallic and Magnetic Metallic and.

    2014 Ford Kuga Engine Upgrades:

    Engine Transmission Power CO2-combined** CO2 improvement over previous engine
    1.5-litre EcoBoost FWD Manual 150 PS 143 g/km 7.1 per cent (11 g/km)
    1.5-litre EcoBoost AWD Automatic 182 PS 171 g/km 4.5 per cent (8 g/km)
    2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi FWD Manual 150 PS 122 g/km 12.2 per cent (17 g/km)
    2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi AWD Manual 150 PS 135 g/km 9.4 per cent (14 g/km)
    2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi AWD PowerShift 150 PS 140 g/km 11.9 per cent (19 g/km)
    2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi AWD Manual 180 PS 135 g/km 9.4 per cent (14 g/km)
    2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi AWD PowerShift 180 PS 140 g/km 11.9 per cent (19 g/km)

    Source: Ford 

  • Sometimes Bigger is Just Right: Toyota Releases Avalon Touring Sport Edition

    2015-Toyota-Avalon-Avalon-Touring-Sport-Edition-THUMBThe Avalon model marks 20 Years and for this reason the Toyota brand is releasing a special edition Avalon Touring Sport model, which is getting special wheels, trim and equipment. This model blurs the lines between mid-size, full-size and entry-luxury categories. The fourth-generation model has a coupe-like silhouette and chiseled lines, and more importantly – this exclusive trim also gives it exclusive Attitude Black paint color scheme.

    The dark blue interior trim and stitching contributes for more sinister looking. Those who are keen on the Japanese creations and in particular this vehicle, will also enjoy the standard HID Quadrabeam headlights, LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and the 18-inch black-painted machine-finished wheels.

    There is nothing else like an anniversary model. One gets a bunch of enhancements and features at no cost literally. The next example for this is the standard paddle shifters and the Entune multimedia audio systems as well as the Blind Spot Monitor.

    We must confirm that the most advantageous characteristic in this car is not its styling, but the spaciousness it offers. Its accommodations are among the roomiest in the entire midsize category. Precisely, with 103.6 cu. ft. of cabin space and a 16-cu. ft. trunk, the Avalon approaches full-size stature.

    In contrast, its weight of 3,505 lbs keeps it firmly in the sports track. For this also contributes the V6 powertrain which comes for the grades XLE, XLE Premium, XLE Touring, new XLE Touring Sport Edition and Limited, and the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive available in the XLE Premium, XLE Touring and Limited grades.

    Source: Toyota

  • Can Ford’s Troller Show Even More Special Version of the T4?

    Ford-Troller-Off-Road-Rescue-Concept-THUMBThe answer is in Sao Paulo and is called Ford Troller T4 Special Off-Road Concept. What is that special about it? Well, just take a glance at its rugged looks, but if that is not enough – than you should probably consider its increased ability to meet new radical tracks and special operations.

    We are speaking about off-roader of course. This means a bunch of strange equipment such as snorkel, winch, steel chest, front bumper, and the typical off-road tires. The special “brounish” adds more glamour to the overall exterior appearance of the car.

    Inside, the same shade is used for the interior trim but is also complemented by tan color. The Troller has also received high performance shock absorbers in case you wonder why it looks so stable and robust.

    Also noticeable are the new taillights, LED lights on the sides and special tires. The T4 highlights the functionality of the thee-door vehicle. This special off-road version served also as an inspiration for the design of clothing and accessories. Divided into three themes, Copa Troller, Institutional and Vintage, the contemporary trend offers tees with vintage style, sports watches, caps and keychains.

    The T4 body is built on a steel frame and it is powered by a 3.2-liter five-cylinder turbodiesel engine. The price it will be available only in Brazil is about $45,000 USD. Unfortunately, the vehicle will never see the US ground.

    Source: Ford 

  • EXCLUSIVE: Vilner Writes Autobiography with a Special Carbon Pack

    There are two best autobiographies in the world. The first one was sold in millions of copies, while the other – only in a few thousand. The first belongs to Winston Churchill, and the other is a Range Rover. The Long wheel base Range Rover Autobiography sits at the top of the luxury two-wheel drives – it is simply brilliant!

    Nevertheless, the tuning specialists at Vilner were inclined to add one more special thing in it and it is carbon fiber. Maybe this was the missing element that can now highlight the enormous potential of 5-liter V8 petrol engine which produces 510 hp (375 kW).

    The tuning began with the replacement of the plastic exterior accents with identical handmade elements from carbon fiber. The material was also used for the frame around the radiator grille and side strips, which connect the front and rear doors.

    This Carbon Pack by Vilner for the new Range Rover also provides the perfect therapy for the mirror caps, part of the front and the rear bumpers. Brand’s name Range Rover on the front and back covers is also written in new “carbon letters”.

    The menacing tone in the stance of this Range Rover is additionally emphasized by the new glossy and matte black 21-inch wheels. What the images in the gallery below can’t show is the additionally mounted sound system, which through one-touch of the button gives stunning sound to the exhaust of the car.

    Oh, and if you want to by this car – don’t worry! The specialists also reveal that unlike all other Vilner interiors (that are one-off) this Carbon Pack will be the first product by the studio, which will be available in limited edition run.

  • Is 2015 Forester STI Subaru’s Sportiest Model? [TEASER]

    2015-Subaru-Forester-STi-Teaser-THUMBEver thought that Subaru will release a STi version of the 2015 Forester model. And is you have been patiently waiting for it, well the news is that you will have to wait a little bit more, because the company has only released four teaser images revealing separate parts of the forthcoming car. Also announced was that the 2015 Subaru Forester STi is set to make an official premiere on 25th of November. The biggest question is whether this car will be the sportiest Subaru model created up to date.

    The official details around it are scarce and as we can see from the pictures, the Forester STi features aggressive aero and cooling, upgraded rolling stock and bigger brakes, as well as the signature Galaxy Blue Pearl blue paint and red accents. There are also bigger wheels, front spoiler lip and sportier suspension setup.

    In terms of power we still don’t know what we are to see. The engine will definitely produces more than 250 horsepower (184 kW), because this rating is offered by the top-of-the-line Forester 2.0XT. At the same time it is also unlikely that the Forster STi gets the 4-cylinder, 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine which we have seen in the WRX STi.

    To be more precise, it delivers 305 bhp (227 kW) and 393 Nm (290 lb-ft). What we actually expect is an output a bit less for the Forester. Another thing in question is whether this car will be offered around the globe except for the Japan, where it will be officially produced. We are definitely eagerly to see this powerful model rolling in Europe or US.

    Source: Subaru

  • Detroit Electric Reveals “Final” Design of SP:01 (Battery) Sports Car

    One week ago we have published the latest news for the (hopefully) final version of the Detroit Electric SP:01 electric sports car. The company is now giving some additional information about the production model: it will feature a striking new rear end. When released the battery-power two-seater will be the most powerful rival of the Tesla cars, and in fact, the SP:01 is expected to be the world’s fastest production electric sports car.

    The prototype version of the EV sports car has been subtly updated. The most striking element of the design is the bold new fastback configuration. It replaces the prototype’s flying buttresses on either side of the rear window. Aerodynamics were also improved, and at the back there is a large sculptural rear wing and an under-body diffuser.

    Other exterior enhancements with aero-treatment feature also reshaped front air intake and outlet ducts on the bonnet. They improve airflow to the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. In addition, vehicle’s battery packs have been clad in a protective composite casing, which provides an extremely robust barrier to protect the batteries.

    With these changes Detroit Electric is expecting to show to the world that it can change the status-quo of the EVs. What is to happen – we are to witness very soon. The fact that these changes to SP:01’s design have been already made, will probably ensure that it will set new standards for performance and handling. Believe it or not, its electric motor will propel the car to a top speed of 155 mph (249 km/h) and accelerates it from 0 to 60mph in just 3.7 seconds.

    Source: Detroit Electric 

  • Lotus Exige S with Automatic Transmission?

    Lotus-Exige-S-Green-Hethel-Track-THUMBYes, you’ve read that just right! The fastest car in the United Kingdom will be equipped with just two pedals… And we are NOT excited about it. But it is definitely good news for those who are lazy to use their left leg. Lotus has just officially announced that it will equip the Exige S with a six-speed automatic transmission. The so called by Lotus “convenience of an automatic” has been specifically tailored to the sporty characteristics of the Exige S.

    Just like the manual gearshift, this automatic will provides its driver with all round engagement and excitement which will reflecs the Lotus DNA of pure driving experience. At least we hope so … The dynamic system changes were activated when the driver selects either ‘Sport’ or ‘Race’ mode. The improved gear selection and response deliver quicker all-round performance for sportier experience is desired.

    Lotus says that this new introduction opts to make the Exige S model range more accessible to customers worldwide. Now, those who are more accustomed to two pedals can enjoy the exceptional performance and handling of the Exige S without compromise.

    Exige S Automatic is currently completing its final stages of testing. And Lotus actually expects to see better performance results than the manual variant. As a matter of fact, Exige S with automatic transmission is as fast as its manual counterpart.

    Around the Hethel test track it covers the 0 – 100 km/h sprint 0.1 seconds quicker than the Exige S manual, precisely – 3.9 seconds. The new transmission option will be available to both Coupe and Roadster models. However, we are still counting on the spirited drive with manual transmission that the Exige S can offer. Do you share our point of view?

    Source: Lotus

     

  • Art and High-Performance Blend in John Pangilinan’s SEMA-based Sonata [VIDEO]

    John-Pangilinan-Hyundai-Sonata-THUMBAt the SEMA show we are used to see Hyundai displaying a range of exceptional custom vehicles. For this year the company is set to raise the standards even more by blending art and performance … literally. The embodiment of this philosophy is John Pangilinan’s SEMA based Sonata, which strives to change the perception of what the regular sedan is by combining high performance driving dynamics with the striking visuals of Los Angeles street art.

    The design vision for the JP Edition Sonata is included in details in the video below. It is called “Hyundai SEMA 2014: Meet the Builders” and it shows how it is possible to build the connection between the fashion and street art and the tons of horsepower.

    JP Edition Sonata keeps the stock white paintwork as the visual base. In this way, John Pangilinan wanted to represent a blank white canvas, upon which he would create his work of art. The artist has worked together with Flexfit | BSCMP and Mr. 44 – a renowned Los Angeles-based street artist. The result is exceptional: the trio was able to create a Sonata that reflects a union between equally passionate street art and auto-enthusiast cultures.

    In addition, the Sonata also got a performance boost via the added AEM cold air intake, a MagnaFlow exhaust kit and a hot charge pipe from Bisimoto engineering. The chassis has also been changed with the addition of KW coilovers.

    LTMW wide body and lip kit make the JP Sonata more aggressive. The same effect is additionally strengthened with the exclusive 19 inch RAYS Gram Lights 57Getter wheels wrapped in Toyo R888 tires.

    Inside, the tuning consists only in the substitution of the standard seats with Recaro cross sportster seats and the addition of BP Auto Sound with Alpine and Scosche electronics, which we definitely don’t find enough for a project which is to be exhibited at SEMA.

    Don’t miss to check out what inspires these tuning veterans to build this Hyundai car for the SEMA show. Are they missing something and will their work be as successful as they claim? Leave your thoughts below in the comment section and stay tuned for more details around this project!

    httpv://youtu.be/xmUyrPkYptc

    JP Hyundai Sonata Specifications:

    ENGINE MODIFICATIONS:

    • AEM Cold Air Intake
    • MagnaFlow Exhaust
    • Bisimoto Hot Charge Pipe

    CHASSIS/SUSPENSION MODIFICATIONS

    • Progress Sport Springs
    • RAYS Gram Lights 57Getter Wheels (19 x 9.5-in. Front, 19 x 10.5-in. Rear)
    • Toyo Tires Proxes R888 (245/40 R19 Front, 295/35 R19 Rear)

    INTERIOR MODIFICATIONS

    • Custom Widebody and Lip Kit by LTMW
    • Custom Vinyl Art by Mr. 44
    • The Retrofit Source and Retrofit House Custom JP Edition Headlights with VLEDs

    INTERIOR MODIFICATIONS

    • RECARO Cross Sportster Seats
    • Bisimoto Custom-Fabricated Seat Brackets
    • Katzkin Re-Upholstery Leather Seats
    • Alpine Electronics System built by BP Autosound
    • Scosche Electronics
    • V-LEDs Lighting

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Hyundai 

  • Is Techart’s new Porsche Macan Lineup Character-Oriented?

    Techart-Porsche-Macan-Lineup-THUMBThe famous tuning company Techart, which specializes in modifying Porsche models only, claims that its latest Macan Lineup is “character-orientated”. We are about to put some questions and see whether this is likely to be so or not.  Techart’s fifth generation Macan can show-off with new aerodynamics, better engine performance, new exhaust systems, suspension and wheels as well as interior refinement. So far so good, but lets go further into details.

    First, the aerodynamics program for this Porsche model stands under the slogan “Reduction vs. concentration” and offers the typical design language of the company. Therefore, the attributes of the basic vehicle’s sporty lines are emphasized. Precisely, the aerodynamic elements include new front spoiler, side skirts, roof spoiler, rear spoiler trim and rear diffuser, which were made of high-quality PU-RIM. This material general characteristic is the low weight.

    For those who do not think that these aero-elements are enough to make the car exceptional, then Techart has created for them the in-house made Sports Package Carbon that sets sincere styling highlights. It includes duct trim at the Macan’s front, new side mirror trims as well as roof spoiler. There’s a catch though – they will only be available for all Porsche Macan in carbon fibre.

    Talking about personalization and character-orientated tuning, the customization company is offering attractive accent colour via its individual paint elements like fog light trims, air intake uprights, front wings or side blades fit seamlessly into the desired play of colours. But … is this enough?

    Of course, if there weren’t any power kits for these Porsche Macans, the answer would be probably “No”. However, Techart tuners are thoughtful and have come along with several proposals for power gains. Speaking in these terms, the 6-cylinder engines of the Porsche Macan models are enhanced via company’s power kits, based on the intelligent Techart engine management system, dubbed TECHTRONIC.

    This system elicits additional power output for the petrol and diesel engines and generates approximately 50 hp (37 kW) and 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) more power for the Macan Turbo with just one press of the Sport- or Sport Plus button. Thus the maximum output of the twin-turbo engine becomes 450 horsepower (331 kW) available at 6.200 1/min and 620 Nm (458 lb-ft) at 2.700 1/min. The acceleration time in Sport Plus is measured at 4.4 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h, which is 0.2s faster that the standard model; from 0 to 160 km/h – in 10.6s (standard model 10.9s). The top speed increased from 266 to 271 km/h.

    This additional power has to have its audible equivalent. Here come Techart’s exhaust systems Sport for the Porsche Macan models. They are made of stainless steel, which ensure that you’re not only able to feel, but also hear the strength of the Macan. The electronically valve-controlled exhaust is controllable by the press of a button at centre console.

    As a result, the driver gets a distinctive and rich sound with a high recognition value for the V6 petrol engines. In addition, Techart’s Sport Tail Pipes in stainless steel and attractive dual oval design with embossed logotype provide the visual significance.

    Next are the suspension options that offer additional variability and sportiness. The well known Air Suspension Module Sport of the tuners has been intelligently adjusted to the vehicle levels of the Macan models. It enables ride height adjustment in driving, loading and parking condition for vehicles with standard air suspension. In the low level or driving in Sport Plus mode, the vehicle lowers by 30 mm in comparison to the normal level and remains activated during all speeds.

    The possibilities of individualization for the Porsche Macan models continue with the offering of three wheel designs, available in 21- and 22-inch as well as in various surface finishing combinations. Besides attractive color combinations, they can be customized individually to suit the vehicle in question. Brake calipers can also be customized with unique paint to match the colour combination in the wheel arch.

    At last, we have to review whether Techart interior refinement for the Macan is what will eventually round-out this character-oriented tuning. Inside we see that the exquisite new leather equipment was complemented by tuning company’s interior styling package. The latter features carbon fibre or in exotic woods elements.

    There are new ergonomically shaped 3-spokes multifunctional sport steering wheel with Techart paddle shifters, aluminium sport pedals and foot rests, floor mats, loadspace floor ma as well as illuminated door entry guards. And here is where we feel a little bit disappointed. In general this tuning offers exceptional individual customization … except for the interior. Maybe Techart has to learn something like tuners such as Vilner and A. Kahn Design? What do you think?

    Source: Techart 

  • You’ve Seen 2015 Kia K900, but You Haven’t Seen it Like This! [VIDEO]

    Kia-K900-SEMA-THUMB2015 Kia K900 is company’s flagship sedan, which recently went on sale, is getting ready to make some “Wows” at the SEMA Auto Show at Las Vegas. For the new model year the car comes with a new V8 engine, next to the still existing V6, which won’t be at the top of the top now. But to go directly to the topic, at the event the company will enter a modified Kia which we have never seen before, but thanks to the released video, we can actually hear it roar. It is the so called “high-performance” K900 Concept.

    If you follow up the promo film, you’ll see the matte gray high-performance SEMA-based K900. Kia is promising that we are about witness exceptional performance blended with personalized style, which are prerequisites for the machine.

    Although the Korean company has kept the details about the engine in secret, it has disclosed that the vehicle will have a one-off body kit with carbon fiber inserts, of course will be “wrapped” in custom-blended gray paint, include a blacked-out chrome trim and run on massive 21-inch gloss-black wheels.

    Yes, this may be a menacing appearance hinting at the power underneath, but we are still in question of what we are to see under the hood. From listening to this video the engine certainly sounds convincingly. Still, putting the question, whether there is a forced induction going on?

    With all the innovative details of the K900 exterior, you can expect the interior will get your adrenaline pumping. You can simply share in the comment section below what do you expect to see.

    httpv://youtu.be/7D-562aUPP4

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Kia

  • Kahn and Chelsea Truck Company Makeover for Land Rover Defender SVX

    Kahn-Land-Rover-Defender-SVX-Chelsea-Truck-Company-THUMBThe rock-solid Land Rover Defender has once again fallen in the hands of A. Kahn Design and Chelsea Truck Company to get a makeover. Both tuning companies say that this custom Defender is for “those who like to drive in a suitably presidential manner” and we are to agree with them. Follow our thoughts to understand why. The revamped vehicle features a wide range of accessories and styling features which lend it more aggressive and at the same time luxurious stance. At the front and rear we see wide wings with vents and bolt apertures.

    The wheel arches have been extended and they perfectly harmonize with the new bumper sump guard, mesh side and top bonnet vents, mud flaps, paint roll bars and side steps in matt black. In general, the body of this Land Rover is covered with santorini black paint finish.

    Not to mention the cross-hair military headlights, the fog lamps from A. Kahn Design and the X-Lander front grille. All they command is attention and they deserve it. The vehicle runs on Volcanic Black Mondial wheels in 9.0 x 20” fitment with 275 x 55 x 20 tyres. We have missed to mention the crosshair exhaust system that additionally gives this 60th anniversary Defender SVX Edition a rugged look.

    Unlike most tuners, A. Kahn Design is famous for its generously equipped custom interiors. Consequently, this Defender benefits from front racing seats in black quilted nappa leather with Harris Tweed Inserts and silver contrast stitching. Firm cushioning in the form of Harris Tweed inserts improves the overall comfort, too.

    The tuning inside continues with black door panels, dashboard and centre glove box in black quilted nappa, both with Harris Tweed inserts, and silver contrast stitching. Those who are looking carefully at the pictures below will also see the, Churchill time clock and speedo/rev counter facia in red, the Kahn billet steering wheel, the centre console facia in matt black, and vented machined aluminium foot pedals.

    So, do you like this new Kahn project? Pen down your thoughts in the comments section below.

    Source: A. Kahn Design